Ah, Edinburgh – my favorite city in the world. This day is starting alright just because I get to write about my favorite country on this beautiful planet – so let’s do this!
One of the things that social media platforms absolutely love is pictures of the Scottish capital, and especially the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh. The architecture is oh so different from what you’d find if you were looking for cafes in some of the most colorful streets in Notting Hill, or picture-perfect cafes in Paris.
So buckle in, and grab yer wee kolsie tartan because this lass of yours is about to tell you about all the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh – from pink cafes like Elan Cafe to moody and unique coffee shops, you’ll want to visit them all!
And if you’d like to discover other super instagrammable cafes and places around the world, check out the following posts: And if you’d like to discover other super instagrammable cafes and places around the world, check out the following posts: Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply looking for picture-perfect spots closer to home, there’s no shortage of dreamy locations to explore. Don’t miss our guide to the most instagrammable cafes in Dubai, where chic interiors meet unforgettable aesthetics. From vibrant colors to stunning backdrops, these cafes are sure to elevate your feed!
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18 Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh & Colorful Spots
Little by little, we are covering on The Working Line all of the most instagrammable cafes in the world – from London to Paris, and from Edinburgh to Manhattan. You’ll soon be able to find pink and floral cafes from all over the world here, and today, we’re spot on with Edinburgh.
The city is known for being the birthplace of Harry Potter, which is already a breakthrough in itself. Beyond that, the architecture and rich culture of Scotland gives Edinburgh this intimate, historical feel you really don’t want to miss.
And obviously, being as in love with picture-perfect places as we are… Let’s start with all the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh, Scotland!
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: The Milkman
It only makes sense to start with The Milkman, a very famous and lovely cafe located on the most beautiful street in Edinburgh.
Well, to be fair, it is one of my favorite streets but it doesn’t mean that it will be yours, especially when compared to the magnificent Prices Street, or the lovely Royal Mile.
With that said, The Milkman is one of Edinburgh’s most instagrammable cafes, if not the top one.
Located in the heart of the Capital’s Old Town, this perfect independent specialty coffee shop allows you to relax and have a wee treat as an escape from the hustle out in the city center.
The Milkman offers a variety of scrumptious cakes coupled with the positive idea that every specialty coffee should be approachable and open to everyone.
Combined with very reasonable prices and a lovely view, it’s one of the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh, especially given how atmospheric and cozy it is.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in London
Most Colorful Cafes in Edinburgh: Elan Cafe
In general, the UK has a very moody, dark vibe to its architectural style, and Edinburgh in particular tends to be extra dark (which I adore!). Well, Elan Cafe is definitely on the opposite side of the spectrum.
It’s all pink and really comparable to the other branches you can find in London or Paris, and one of the newest instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh, since it only arrived at the new James Quarter Mall some time ago.
Perfect if you fancy a red velvet latte, marvelous cupcakes, carrot cake and whatnot – and obviously perfect for Instagram pictures!
Read: The Best Cafes in Brixton
Best Cafe With a View in Edinburgh: Mary’s Milk Bar
Although Mary’s Milk Bar is an ice cream parlor it also serves coffee and super tasty chocolate! Talk about a cafe with a view in Edinburgh: this one has to be top-notch.
I know there are photo opportunities at every corner of the city.
However, if you’re aiming for a moody pause with handmade ice cream and a unique view of the Castle, one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh, then Mary’s Milk Bar is your place!
Mary makes new ice cream flavors every morning up until 11 am so you can taste fresh ice cream with a different flavor every day. She studied as a chocolatier at a prestigious school in Italy and brought her best work and dedication, to you!
Between the lovely sights and the yummy temptations with affordable prices, Mary even sold out ice cream during the summer months.
I advise you to go as early as possible if you happen to be in Edinburgh during the Fringe summer festival.
Read: The Best Breakfast in Notting Hill
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Union Brew Lab
If you’re ever looking for cafes to study in Edinburgh, you have the Union Brew Lab on College Street. It’s not only a coffee shop, though, as the Union Brew Lab becomes a quite trendy party place at the end of the day.
However, if you happen to visit during the morning, you’ll find it’s a relaxing, trendy, and innovative coffee house that offers premium artisanal produce and homebrewed coffee.
People love to take pictures for Instagram sitting on the table close to the window and I won’t deny it, I would do it as well. The place is cozy and it allows you to focus and enjoy a relaxing comfortable place to work outside of your home.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in Manhattan
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Starbucks Coffee Princes Street
Another Starbucks coffee shop, am I right? I love Starbucks, but with so many beautiful local businesses why go to Starbucks in this city? Whatever makes it the most instagrammable cafe in Edinburgh?
One simple thing: the view.
Starbucks on Princes Street is located right in front of the Princes St Gardens and aligned with the most famous viewpoint of the castle.
Starbucks coffee shops might be some of the best laptop friendly cafes when you want to work, but that’s not why you’ll want to visit this one.
The second-floor large windows of this chain cafe are often photographed, just because they give a view of one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh.
Some people come to the capital desperately looking for that one coffee shop on Instagram that shows you the castle. I was among those people and laughed when I discovered it was a Starbucks after plenty of time spent researching Google Maps and Instagram.
I was expecting a boujee cafe with a grand heritage and all, not a Starbucks but it made me happy to know that as your regular trusted coffee shop, you are free to wander around – they are used to it.
So long as you’re consuming, you can come, enjoy the view, and work on your top touristy pictures whilst in there.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in Rome
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Fortuna Coffee Bar
With a colorful pretty entrance, the Fortuna Coffee Bar is a top-rated coffee shop in Edinburgh, not only because it’s super cute with its floral entrance: the coffee and pastries are delicious!
The business is run by a family and they offer great quality products. Whether you’re looking for places to have breakfast in Edinburgh, brunch, or just relax for a bit, it’s a spot to have on your bucket list.
With your coffee on the go and a tempting treat, why not adventure yourself to explore the nearby Stockbridge neighborhood?
You won’t want to miss it: it’s one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh.
Read: The Best Nontouristy Things to Do in London
Cutest Cafes in Edinburgh: Sir Walter’s Cafe
If you fancy great outdoor views and colorful places in Edinburgh, then this place is your best bud. Sir Walter’s Cafe is located right in the center of the Princes street gardens close to the Scott monument.
This place serves Scottish teas in an old-fashioned style alongside other delicious cakes and food. You can enjoy your cup of joe while watching the beautiful seasons changing tones and the picturesque Scottish scenery.
Sir Walter’s Cafe is one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh. Whether you’re sitting on a bench enjoying the views, or reading a good book, you will most likely spot locals or tourists with a camera on hand. It might even be me!
Read: The Best Things to Do on Solo Travel to Rome
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Thomas J. Walls
On a bustling street, you have Thomas J. Walls. This mellow coffee shop serves a magnificent brunch on lovely wood and brick wall panels. There are lovely spots to sit close to the windows, which is a must on my list.
However, get ready to wait as this is one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh, which means you may have to abandon your windowed coffee ideas for pictures.
If you’re patient, you might have luck with the unpredictable weather and be able to sit outside. In any case, the façade of this cafe is stunning, so, either way, you will be gaining pretty pictures for your social media!
Read: The Best Breakfast in Rome
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Starbucks Royal Mile
I promise you right away that this is the last Starbucks I mention in the article, however, I won’t deny it: it is also a photo spot for most tourists and locals due to its location.
Grand windows at this cafe are a favorite for those cute posing pictures with a coffee in hand because it was decorated to respect the surrounding architecture and vibe of the city.
Starbucks is located on the most beautiful street in Edinburgh, the Royal Mile. It’s close to the lovely piper that you can usually hear playing the Skye Boat song – I don’t know about you, but it almost leaves me teary-eyed when I think about it.
Read: The Best Vegan Bakeries in London
Most Colorful Places in Edinburgh: La Barantine Victoria
Located in the most colorful place in the city, La Barantine might not be one the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh, but it is a favorite of many people. A french patisserie that serves wonderful espressos and an array of artisanal desserts!
One can’t come to Edinburgh and not visit the most colorful street in the Scottish capital. Victoria St is beautiful as it is and extra famous for its connection to the famous world of Harry Potter.
Indeed, J.K. Rowling took this street as an inspiration for the famous Diagon Alley. So you’ve got French pastries, a cozy coffee shop, and a Harry Potter street? Yes, please!
With so many shops and instagrammable restaurants in Edinburgh, it can be tough to know where to go, what to visit, and what to eat. Yet, even with all the exploring around the city, you must take a moment and grab a wee bite at La Barantine Victoria!
Read: The Most Colorful Streets in Camden London
Unique Cafes in Edinburgh: The City Cafe
The City Cafe is a special favorite. This one brings me lots of fond memories, and now you can create your ones there as well!
The City Cafe is a retro bar with an American diner vibe that serves cocktails, sharers, English breakfast, and coffee amongst much other deliciousness.
With a good vibe and a lovely playlist, this instagrammable Scottish cafe can bring you lots of joy.
The city cafe has the same vibe as one of my favorite restaurants in Edinburgh, Mum’s Great Comfort Food, which you should definitely try if you like that retro vibe.
My special tip?
Go make memories with an Instax camera around Edinburgh, and spread your pictures on the table of The City Cafe with what you ordered. Surrounded by your special ones, take a picture of the table, and you will see the magic of this place.
Read: The Best Vegan Restaurants in Rome
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Waterstones Princes Street
We already talked about Princes Street in this guide before, since wherever you’ll go, you might catch a glimpse of the formidable view.
If you’re aiming for a fancier cafe with the same view as Starbucks on Princes St, then Waterstones might be your perfect cafe.
Waterstones Cafe usually has amazing background when you’re looking for laptop friendly cafes, whether you’re in London or Edinburgh, and this one is no different.
Unfortunately, the seats by the windows are limited, so you might be lucky if you see one empty – come as early as you can is my advice.
Read: The Best Brunch in King’s Cross
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Burr & Co
We’re diving into something a little bit moodier than places like Elan Cafe, with Burr & Co. If you’re looking for a really nice place to have breakfast in Edinburgh, some coffee, or just to read a book for a while, it’s a great place to stop at.
Burr & Co has one of the most beautiful entrances I have ever seen in a coffee shop when decorated for Christmas.
This cosy cafe shares the same beautiful street as one of the most instagrammable restaurants in Edinburgh, The Dome. Visit either during the winter season, and you’ll feel how magical Edinburgh is.
Read: The Best Cafes in London Bridge
Unique Cafes in Edinburgh: The Hideout Café
Looking for a coffee shop with that rustic character? The Hideout Cafe is as famous as the Milkman, just as atmospheric and cinematic.
This floor-to-ceiling arched windowed cafe makes you want to read a new book and take a cozy moment for yourself in a safe space. The decor is really simple, but it gives you that homely feeling perfect when it’s windy outside.
Not a proper bookshop cafe, but if you’re a book lover, the Hideout Cafe provides not only a few books for you to read while sipping on some coffee but also a view of life passing by around you.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in Brooklyn
Most Colorful Cafes in Edinburgh: The Elephant House
The Elephant Cafe is a worldwide famous coffee shop, known because it was the cafe where J.K. Rowling herself wrote the first early novels of the Harry Potter saga.
However, aside from the Harry Potter books, The Elephant Cafe is a highly instagrammable cafe from the outside too.
It was founded in 1995, and even if it’s quite simple on the inside, you’ll feel right at home there if you want to chill or work on your laptop.
The bohemian place gives you plenty of affordable choices for breakfast and snacks, and it also offers a beautiful view of the castle of Edinburgh in the background.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work on the Upper East Side
Unique Cafe in Edinburgh: Red Kite Cafe
If you’re just looking for a cute cafe in Edinburgh for some instagrammable breakfast, you’re going to want to try the Red Kite Cafe – a local’s favorite.
With some of the best scones in the entire city, this laid-back destination offers the most unique fragrant teas and blended coffee that are sourced locally.
You’ve also got freshly baked pastries, flowers everywhere, lovely friendly staff, and an incredible breakfast/lunch menu. What’s not to like?
Also, if you are ever onto study cafes in Edinburgh, that’s a super cozy spot to work for a bit while tasting the Red Kite Cafe’s amazing brownies.
Read: The Best Stationery Shops in London
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: The Marshmallow Lady
Then, you have The Marshmallow Lady, which is nothing if not the cutest cafe in Edinburgh. With The Marshmallow Lady, the menu is sweet, oh-so sweet, and unique.
What you should try first is their beautiful hot chocolate (probably the best hot chocolate in Edinburgh overall) topped with grilled marshmallows which will bring you back to childhood in a heartbeat.
One of the highlights of this overly cute cafe is however the giant toasted marshmallows – undoubtedly perfect if you’re around town during the fall or are spending Christmas in Edinburgh.
Read: The Best Makeup Stores in London
Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh: Lovecrumbs
Let’s finish this guide with another one of the most instagrammable cafes in Edinburgh: Lovecrumbs, located in West Port.
Not as colorful and as pink a cafe as Elan Cafe I mentioned at the beginning of my post, but still one of the cutest coffee shops in Edinburgh.
If you’re the type of person always looking for the best cafes to work in Edinburgh, great news: Lovecrumbs will get you inspired in no time with its greenery and vibe, oscillating between modern and rustic.
Read: The Best Charity Shops in London
18 Most Instagrammable Cafes in Edinburgh & Colorful Spots
In Edinburgh, you can find Instagram-worthy cafes at almost every corner. Yet, these are either the most important or highly visited ones due to their location, views, quality, or prices.
There is so much variety to pick from. So why not give this beautiful city a try, and explore your perfect café in dreamy, moody Edinburgh?
I am biased because Scotland is really important to me, and truly the place I wish to call home, but let me tell you that this city has so much to offer.
I will soon tell you about some of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh as well, and can’t wait for you to try the beautiful coffee shops we’ve talked about today!