From climbing Arthur’s seat to exploring the gorgeous cobblestone streets — Edinburgh is a great place to visit, for leisure or work. Whether attending a conference, meeting with clients, or working remotely between engagements, navigating Scotland’s capital efficiently will make all the difference.
From transport options to workspace recommendations, here’s what you need to know before your next business trip.
Arriving and getting around
Touching down at Edinburgh Airport places you just eight miles from the city centre. The most efficient route into town is the Edinburgh Trams, which run every seven minutes and deliver you to Princes Street in under half an hour. If you’re on a tight schedule, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available, though traffic during peak hours can be unpredictable.
Once in the city, walking is often the quickest way to get between central locations. Edinburgh’s compact layout makes it highly pedestrian-friendly, but be prepared for hills — comfortable shoes will serve you well. For longer distances, the Lothian Buses network is reliable and inexpensive, offering contactless payment for convenience.
Choosing the right accommodation
Business travellers have no shortage of options in Edinburgh, but location is key. If meetings are scattered across the city, staying near Haymarket ensures easy access to transport links. For those with engagements in the Old or New Town, a hotel around George Street or St Andrew Square places you within walking distance of key business districts.
In terms of hotels, there are some really great options to choose from such as the InterContinental Edinburgh, The George and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh. Plus, The Caledonian offers upscale stays with meeting facilities if that’s what you’re looking for. If you prefer a more flexible arrangement, serviced apartments like Cheval, The Edinburgh Grand offers a home-from-home environment with space to work.
Finding the best workspaces
Whether you need a quiet place to prepare for a meeting or a comfortable setting for remote work, Edinburgh has plenty of well-equipped spaces.
- Codebase – a hub for tech professionals with hot-desking options and a collaborative atmosphere.
- The Melting Pot – a well-located coworking space near Waverley Station, ideal for focused work.
- Brew & Brownie – a café that blends excellent coffee with a relaxed working environment, suited for short bursts of productivity.
If your schedule involves back-to-back calls, consider booking a private meeting space at The Edinburgh Grand or the EICC, both of which cater to business travellers needing professional surroundings.
Managing your time in a city of distractions
Edinburgh’s charm is undeniable, but its appeal can also be a distraction when work needs to take priority. Structuring your day around quieter hours is a smart move — mornings tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for focused tasks.
Business lunches or dinners are best scheduled away from tourist hotspots, where service can be slower. The Dome and Dishoom offer excellent menus in a professional setting, while Howies Waterloo Place provides a quieter atmosphere for discussions over a meal.
Staying connected and productive
Wi-Fi is widely available in Edinburgh, with most hotels, cafés, and coworking spaces offering fast connections. If you’re working from multiple locations throughout the day, a mobile Wi-Fi device or a local SIM with a data plan ensures seamless connectivity.
Power outlets aren’t always in abundance in historic buildings, so keeping a portable charger on hand is a simple yet effective way to avoid productivity hiccups.
Making the most of your downtime
Even the busiest itinerary should allow for some exploration. If you find yourself with a spare hour, a walk up Calton Hill provides panoramic views of the city and a well-earned moment of clarity. If time permits, a short visit to The Scottish National Gallery or a quiet whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience can be a rewarding way to unwind.
For evening networking or unwinding with colleagues, The Devil’s Advocate and Panda & Sons offer sophisticated yet relaxed settings.
Planning ahead for a smoother trip
A well-prepared business traveller is an efficient one. Checking the local event calendar before your visit can help you avoid major festivals that could impact hotel availability and transport. If visiting in August, for example, The Edinburgh Festival Fringe transforms the city, creating an entirely different dynamic.
Enjoy your trip!
With the right approach, a business trip to Edinburgh can be as seamless as it is productive. By planning ahead and choosing locations strategically, you’ll be well-positioned to make the most of your time in Scotland’s capital.
If you would like any more advice about business travel in Edinburgh, get in touch with the team today and we’d be happy to help.