There is much more than medieval streets and an imposing castle that makes Edinburgh a city full of character and rich in history; its pub culture is as fascinating as the city itself. An Edinburgh pub crawl is not a mere drinking tour, it is an opportunity to dive into the very soul of this city, to explore all of its secrets and to get around in the unique atmosphere of the place. This ultimate guide shall provide you with all the necessary tools to tackle the best pubs, what to avoid, and how to make your pub crawl experience one not to forget easily.</p
Classic or quirky: how to pick your route in an Edinburgh pub crawl?
The joy of Edinburgh pub crawl is in its flexibility. You can either follow a traditional path and visit famous pubs full of history or you can explore the untouristy locations and find cozy unusual places. Standard tours usually centre on the Old Town, and they will lead you through closes and past historical sites. Alternatively, a quirkier tour could visit some of the secret bars of the New Town, or head into the colourful Leith district, with its varied and independent pubs.
When planning, consider what you like. Do you like the traditional Scottish pubs that are warm and cosy? Or do you prefer contemporary craft beer bars and a large variety of local beers? Doing some research on which pubs there are beforehand means you can plan a route that specifically caters to your tastes. There are lots of web sites providing extensive pub guides and reviews so you can make informed choices.

Suggested Old Town Pub Crawl Route Classics:
A traditional walk would start in Sandy Bell, a traditional pub with live music and a good atmosphere. You may then work your way down the Royal Mile, taking in Salt Horse, with its amazing choice of craft beers, and finally ending up in The Sheep Held Inn, an old pub with a lovely atmosphere. Note the opening hours and possible reservation needs, in particular of famous establishments.
The Unusual Pub Scene in Edinburgh:
To have a less typical experience, you can visit the bars in Stockbridge, a lovely neighborhood with a bunch of independent pubs and a laid-back atmosphere. Seek out the secret speakeasies of the New Town, or head to Leith Walk which has a selection of both old and new pubs. Leith is an area that has gained popularity over the last few years both because of its pubs and also its beautiful waterfront setting.
The Edinburgh pub crawl is a must-do experience, but there are some things you should know to make the experience comfortable.
Preparation is the best way to make sure your Edinburgh pub crawl is both fun and risk-free. Begin by mapping out your route, taking note of opening hours and places. Take advantage of resources and online maps to determine the most optimal walking paths to take, without making extra detours. It is advisable to keep an eye on the time of year since Edinburgh weather is rather uncertain, and dress appropriately.

Pace yourself. Although the urge to bar hop within the various pubs is there, taking your time and enjoying the setting of the individual pubs is also a given. Don t forget to alternate alcoholic drinks with water to keep yourself hydrated. This will assist you not to get too drunk and will give you an opportunity to have fun at every step of your pub crawl.
Safety First: Responsible Drinking and Transportation
Moderate drinking is essential. Always avoid drinking and driving and think about using public transit or a taxi or ride-sharing service to travel. Appoint a driver or use public transportation in case you are taking alcohol. The public transport in Edinburgh is pretty reliable and is easily available therefore it is a convenient and safe mode of transport to use to get home.
Always move with groups. Remaining with friends or a group increases safety and makes the experience more pleasant. Be aware of your valuables and surrounding, particularly in busy places. This is because being mindful of your environment can help you avoid any trouble and you can enjoy your pub crawl trouble free.
pub culture in Edinburgh: Beyond the Booze
An Edinburgh pub crawl is not only about getting drunk; it is about experiencing the special culture of this city. Lofixed around and admire the architecture of the pubs, some of which are located in the old buildings. Interact with the locals, start conversions and enjoy the friendly environment.

Live music is available in many pubs, with traditional Scottish folk music a speciality. Pub websites or local listings will tell you what entertainment is available when you are visiting. To make the evening even more remarkable, there is the benefit of live music. It is also not a sin to engage complete strangers in conversation whom you meet in the pub; it is actually the source of some of the best memories.
Scotch on the Rocks: Food and Drink Matches Savor the Scottish Flavors: Food and Drink Pairings
Traditional Scottish dishes, including haggis, neeps and tatties or Cullen skink, are also commonly available in the pubs of Edinburgh. You can also consider having some local delicacies to accompany your drinks and make your pub crawl interesting. Most of the pubs also propose a large choice of beers, whiskies and other spirits, to enable you to taste local products).
There are numerous pubs with the distinctive atmosphere and ambiance. There are those who would emphasize on the classical decors and ambience and there are those who prefer to have a more contemporary and chic design. Noticing such details will enhance the whole nature of your pub crawl experience. By visiting various pubs, you can enjoy the variety of the Edinburgh pub world.

The Checklist to Plan Your Ideal Edinburgh Pub Crawl
Make this checklist before your Edinburgh pub crawl to have a trouble-free and enjoyable event. Check-in pubs in advance and go through online sources and reviews to identify the right places that suit your interests. Work out your route considering opening times, distances and the possible weather conditions.
Think about your budget. The price of pubs in Edinburgh may differentiate, and to control your expenses, it will be better to have a budget. It is also important to ensure that you are well prepared with enough cash or the right methods of payment because not every pub will take cards. To be on the safer side, inform somebody of your intentions, and the route you will be taking as well as the expected time of your arrival back.
Above all, have a good time! Take up the spontaneity, get involved in the local culture and get memories of a lifetime. The pub culture in Edinburgh is very much alive and friendly, which makes the experience of a visitor, regardless of his/her background, truly unforgettable. These tips will help you to have a memorable experience when crawling the pubs with fun, laughs, and interesting cultural experiences.

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