Bursting with Scottish charm, our cities sure know how to impress our visitors each year, offering a whole host of brand-new attractions, accommodation, bars and restaurants. If you’re planning a city break in Scotland, check out our guide on what’s new in 2022!
Explore: Aberdeen, Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Perth or Stirling.
Aberdeen
Provost Skene’s House
One of Aberdeen’s oldest buildings has undergone major refurbishment to visit in 2022. Provost Skene’s House has been transformed into a museum featuring interactive displays of the life and achievements of well-known faces from the north east of Scotland. Footballer Denis Law, singer Annie Lennox and football manager Sir Alex Ferguson, along with many others, feature in the Hall of Heroes. Not to be missed!
P&J Live
P&J Live Building © Visit Aberdeenshire / Damian Shields
With 7 conference spaces, an arena capacity of 15,000 and 350 on-site hotel rooms, P&J Live is ready to welcome you back with a jam-packed calendar full of exciting events. Whether you’re looking to see your favourite artist and sing your heart out or learn how to make the region’s culinary delights in the annual Taste of Grampian food & drink event, there is a show for everyone to enjoy.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Kenny Hunter – Sculpture Court: 11 December 2021 – 30 October 2022
Frances Walker: Printing On: 19 March – 12 June 2022
Explore monuments in a form of flux at Aberdeen Art Gallery with Kenny Hunter’s Sculpture Court exhibition. Hunter investigates the meaning behind monuments and what they stand for in our world today. Painter and printmaker Frances Walker is also exhibiting a selection of prints made at Peacock – a renowned printmaker in the city.
Aberdeen Science Centre
Having undergone a recent multi-million pound refurbishment, Aberdeen Science Centre’s new mezzanine floor has doubled in size, making more room for brand new exhibitions. From dinosaurs to robots, it is guaranteed to be a fun day out for all the family!
Dundee
V&A Dundee
Michael Clark: Cosmic Dancer: on now until 4 September 2022
You can’t visit Dundee without popping to see the V&A Dundee! Have fun with all the family whilst you discover the world of design through a range of displays and exhibitions. Enjoy the immersive experience of Michael Clark: Cosmic Dancer curated by Barbican, featuring the dance, design, music, art and fashion of the post-punk choreographer.
Dundee City Beach
Hit the beach on your next city break! Stretch your legs as you take in the glorious river-side views of Dundee with the new waterfront refurbishment. If you’re a keen cyclist be sure to check out the Dundee Cycle Hub for all things cycling and, if you ever need your bike maintained, there’s also a workshop.
Caird Park – Regional Performance Centre
There are loads of spectacular sporting events to look forward to in 2022. All eyes will be on Dundee with its brand-new Regional Performance Centre. The sport facility centre houses a full-size indoor artificial pitch, an eight-court multi-sports hall, outdoor velodrome and much more.
Dunfermline
Christie’s Dunfermline, Fife Leisure Park
Dunfermline was recently granted city status as part of HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – huge congratulations guys! A new city also means a new restaurant to sink your teeth into, let us introduce you to Christie’s. Enjoy Scottish style tapas with sticky Irn Bru chicken wings, lamb croquettes and cod fish fingers making a star appearance on the menu. For our veggie friends, there’s lot of foodie dishes to whet your appetite including truffle mushroom and tarragon sourdough toast and wild garlic roasted cauliflower.
Edinburgh
St James Quarter, Leith Street
With 85 shops, 30 restaurants, two hotels and a cinema, the recently opened St James Quarter in Edinburgh is a utopia for shopping and eateries.
Pizza and prosecco night anyone? A trip to the cinema is about to get a whole lot better with Everyman Cinema. Whether you choose to sit down and eat in the bar area or have your food and drink delivered to your seat, sit back and relax as you enjoy a mix of mainstream, independent and classic films. Strike lucky at Lane7 while you impress friends and family with your bowling skills or get ready to up your fashion game with an eclectic mix of high-street and designer stores including Zara, Calvin Klein, Stradivarius and & Other Stories – making its first Scottish store debut.
Find out more about shopping in Scotland
Johnnie Walker Princes Street
Raise a toast to one of Edinburgh’s new arrivals and explore the flavours of Scotland at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. The whisky experience follows the story of the brand from its humble beginnings where it was first crafted in an Edinburgh grocers, to becoming the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky brand. After the tour, tantalise your taste buds with a private dining experience as you savour exquisite Scottish delicacies paired with carefully hand-selected whiskies to complement each dish. In the summer months, head out onto the rooftop bars with a cocktail in hand where you will be treated to iconic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Take a look at what other amazing rooftop bars and skyline views you can find in Scotland’s cities
Gleneagles Townhouse, St Andrew’s Square
Opening summer 2022
We all deserve a break away in 2022. Make it extra special by whisking yourself off to the Gleneagles Townhouse. Expecting to welcome guests this summer, Gleneagles is bringing its countryside flair to life in Edinburgh’s city centre and with all-day dining, two rooftop bars, a gym and wellness facilities. It has all the essential ingredients for an urban getaway.
Discover more of Scotland’s city breaks
The Port of Leith Distillery
There really is no better way to celebrate Edinburgh’s rich whisky heritage than by opening a shiny new distillery. Leith welcomes The Port of Leith Distillery to its new home, helping to lift everyone’s spirits. When the distillery opens its doors, make sure to head to the top floor bar where you will be able to enjoy spectacular views across Leith, Edinburgh and Fife while you sip away on your favourite tipple.
Toppings Book Shop, Blenheim Place
Edinburgh is proud to be the first UNESCO City of Literature, so why not check out Toppings Book Shop to experience a bookworm’s paradise? You will no doubt spend hours trying to pick your next literary adventure.
Looking to add to your reading list? Check out our 9-must read books about Scotland or pop into one of our brilliant independent bookshops.
The Chocolatarium, Royal Mile
A chocolate themed tour and shop? Yes please! Situated just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, a visit to The Chocolatarium is sure to be a sweet treat. Get the chance to become a master chocolatier and create your very own dream bar with lots of delicious toppings to choose from and discover the process of chocolate making from start to finish. Of course, no visit to an attraction would be complete without having a browse in the gift shop. Whether you’re looking to try its original milk, white or dark chocolate bars or weird and wonderful combinations, such as haggis and chilli, there are lots of chocolatey goods to stock up on including vegan, lactose-free and gluten free bars, too.
Cutting Chaii, Salamander Street
Enjoy a taste of India at Cutting Chaii. Select from an extensive menu of tapas style dishes including Amritsari Lamb Chops, Maa’s Butter Chicken or, if you can handle the heat, try the Kadai Kathal made with the chef’s special Punjabi masala sauce with fresh green chilli, onions and peppers.
Fingal, Leith
How a-boat staying in a luxury floating hotel for your next city break? Enjoy the glitz and glamour of a 5-star experience at Fingal. Once a working ship ferrying lighthouse keepers, essential supplies and maintenance staff to lighthouses, the boat has now transformed into a swanky hotel berthed on Leith’s waterfront. Choose from a range of luxury cabins all offering something completely different – perfect after a jam-packed day of exploring Edinburgh’s attractions.
Holyrood Distillery, St Leonard’s Lane
Get into the spirit of things by taking a guided tour around the Holyrood Distillery – the first whisky distillery to open in the city centre in almost a century. There are lots of interactive displays throughout, giving visitors the opportunity to have fun while learning about the world of flavour. If you’re more of a gin lover, then you will be delighted to know that the distillery also runs a series of tours and masterclasses.
Voco Edinburgh – Haymarket
Enjoy the finer things in life with Voco. Located in Edinburgh’s West End, embrace city life to the fullest with attractions, bars and restaurants just a stone’s throw away, including many transport links nearby, making it the perfect base for further explorations.
After a day of sightseeing, you will no doubt want to make use of the hotel’s fabulous amenities. Relax with a beverage or two from your very own mini bar as you sitback and watch TV on a 40-inch smart flat screen. Start the day off right with a delicious breakfast, with the hotel serving à la carte as well as hot and cold buffet options and tea and coffee refills. Fancy working up a sweat? Head to the fitness centre equipped with all the latest gym equipment including treadmills, rowing machines and weights.
100 Princes Street
Opening late summer 2022
A sizzling new arrival makes its way to Edinburgh’s city centre in 2022. Add a touch of luxury to your next trip with 100 Princes Street. Inspired by Alexander McQueen and with 30 bedrooms available to book with extraordinary views of Edinburgh Castle, each room is individually designed to help capture the city’s rich history and heritage.
Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood
Book a stay at Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments and wake up to glorious morning views of the city before heading out to explore its hidden gems. From one to two-bedroom apartments, each room is individually designed to help you enjoy contemporary living with flat screen TVs, throws using the finest blend of wool and cashmere, intelligent heating and lighting controls and free unlimited Wi-Fi.
Make sure to download the Cheval app where you can find the best bars and restaurants while on the go, and even order items directly to your apartment.
Malmaison, St Andrews Square
Say hello to a brand-new Malmaison hotel. Branching out to Edinburgh’s St Andrew’s Square, the boutique hotel certainly knows a thing or two when it comes to stylish rooms, delicious food and drink and special occasions. With exclusive offers including the Weekender – which includes two nights with a continental breakfast, dinner on the first night and a cocktail of your choice – how could you refuse?
Crescent House, Claremont Crescent
Looking for a place to stay in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town? Make sure to add Crescent House to your list. Originally designed by the Edinburgh-born architect William Burn in 1823, this stylish B&B boasts modern luxury. On the top floor, enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline and on the ground floor, relax in the spacious living room or cook up a storm in the beautiful modern kitchen. The city centre location gives you a perfect excuse to explore many of Edinburgh’s wonderful attractions, shops and restaurants.
Altido Haymarket, Rosebery Crescent
There’s a new hotel on the block! Get ready to enjoy a stylish stay at Altido Haymarket. With its elegantly decorated rooms, guests are guaranteed a good night’s rest here. Each room is furnished with a double bed, private ensuite bathroom, a flat screen TV, a fridge, free toiletries and much more. With lots of attractions located nearby, it’s a fantastic base for a city getaway.
Point A Hotel – Edinburgh Haymarket
Point A Hotel is another new addition to Edinburgh’s Haymarket. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, Hypnos beds, power showers, hairdryers and a 43-inch smart TV with Chromecast connectivity. Start the day off right with the hotel’s Brekkie Bag which is available to order at reception for just £5. Inside you’ll find a yoghurt pot, banana, croissant and a carton of orange juice. Want to upgrade to a hot beverage? No problem! Tea and coffee is also available to order and collect from the breakfast bar.
Glasgow
FRKN Delicious, Clarence Drive
The name says it all. Indulge in picture-perfect servings of loaded waffles and over-the-top cheesecakes, while the fun and quirky interior is an extra bonus. There is a great selection of desserts to be enjoyed at FRKN Delicious including the Ferrero Waffle or the Strawberries & Cream Cheesecake, enriched with double cream, white chocolate drizzle and topped with juicy strawberries.
The Burrell Collection
Now open to the public after a major refurbishment, The Burrell Collection is located in Pollock Country Park in the south west side of Glasgow and is home to an incredible array of displays, collections, and exhibitions. As well as an intriguing exterior, the collection features more galleries than ever before, and brings the objects to life with over 90 digital displays offering interactive and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
Clayton Hotel, Glasgow City Centre
Expected in summer 2022
Coming soon to Glasgow city centre is Clayton Hotel, with 300 air-conditioned bedrooms, a bar and restaurant and not to mention several shops, attractions and eateries nearby. Get ready to let your hair down and enjoy all the thrills that the city has to offer.
Canteen 58, Ingram Street
It’s never too late for breakfast at Canteen 58. Press the snooze button just that wee bit longer with breakfast served until 5pm. Check out the separate dinner menu for delicious bites, including chicken kebabs, vegetable stew or the veggie, meaty or mix sharing platters, all served in the diner’s signature canteen trays.
*Please note, Canteen 58 is temporarily closed.*
111 by Modou, Cleveden Road
Make your visit to Glasgow extra special by booking a table at 111 by Modou. Head chef Modou Diagne is bound to cook up a storm, experimenting with different flavours for his 5-course tasting menu. Savour mouth-watering crisp oysters for starters, Ayrshire Pork Cheek for main and finish off with something sweet for your final course.
Glaschu, Royal Exchange Square
Another fine dining experience to add to your list is Glaschu. Pronounced Glas-a-hoo which is Gaelic for Glasgow, prepare to loosen your belt. The Market Menu offers the very best fresh local fayre, or if you’re looking for Sunday dinner ideas, dig into a hearty Sunday roast with all the trimmings. Yum!
Zique’s, Hyndland Road
We simply can’t get enough of our city foodie hotspots. If you’re looking for Indian cuisine, head to Zique’s in Hyndland Road. Appetising dishes include Butter Chicken Paratha, Purple Hummus Bowl and Thai Vegetable Curry.
The Calton Taproom, Calton Entry
Looking to try a selection of new brews and delicious BBQ food? You’re in luck when you visit The Calton Taproom. With 20 different taps and 100 different beers to choose from, you will definitely be in your element. Want something fancier? Upgrade to a cocktail, where the team of mixologists will be on hand to create their finest concoctions.
Ralph & Finns, St Vincent Place
Good food, fine cocktails and great company are the essentials for any night out. If you’re staying in Glasgow, be sure to check out Ralph & Finns. With a 22-seater marble bar, Whisky Room and a private dining experience available in their Boardroom, it is the perfect late-night haunt for a meal and few drinks.
Glasgow Contemporary Art Trail, various locations
Glasgow’s city centre is ready to turn heads yet again with its Contemporary Art Trail. Featuring 14 murals including Untitled, Cherub Skull and The Clyde Clock, get ready to take pictures or pose in front as you discover more of the city’s art scene.
Walking Tours in Glasgow – Mackintosh Walking Tour
Offering half and day tours, discover the legacy behind one of Scotland’s most renowned architects. The Charles Rennie Mackintosh Walking Tour will take you along some key sites whilst you also learn the history behind them. Highlights include Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, The Lighthouse, Sloans, Glasgow School of Art and Mackintosh at the Willow.
Inverness
Ness Walk Hotel
Inverness have welcomed a bonnie new arrival. The 5-star Ness Walk Hotel are offering a short break away of pure indulgence to its guests. Choose from several luxurious rooms and suites including Laurel, Cedar, Rowan and Wellingtonia – all named after trees on the grounds of Ness Walk. With large rooms, glorious river views, a stylish en-suite bathroom and toiletries from Arran Sense of Scotland, the special touches in each room are first-class.
Café Botanics at Inverness Botanic Gardens
Stop for a light refreshment after spending a day at Inverness Botanic Gardens. Open seven days a week from 10am – 4pm, the café have a brand-new menu offering a wide range of homemade soups, sandwiches, pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport
Making its Highland debut is The Marriott. This 4-star hotel includes 130 bedrooms, a bar and bistro serving breakfast, snacks and evening meals as well as a fitness centre and meeting room spaces.
Perth
Eilidh Doyle Mural, Perth High Street
Street art is helping to brighten up Scotland’s city streets, turning once vacant buildings into beautiful pieces of artwork. If you’re a fan of all things art, Perth is almost on its marks to unveil a brand new mural for visitors to admire. The mural will honour Perth’s very own Eilidh Doyle to celebrate her and her team’s success.
Discover more incredible street art in Scotland
Mhor Coffee, Kinnoull Street
Get your caffeine fix with Mhor Coffee. Catch up with friends or family over a coffee and a sweet treat with lots of delicious options to choose from. If you’re looking to try out more artisan coffees, make sure to sign up to their subscription service.
Culdees Castle Estate – Luxury Glamping
Spend a weekend in the great outdoors with Culdees Castle Estate. Start the day off right by ordering a breakfast hamper to your cabin or order a BBQ pack for a feast later in the day. With walking trails, cycling routes, horse-riding, fishing and golf, you will never be short of things to see and do here. Fancy a soak? Relax in your very own hot tub where you can admire Culdees Castle in all its glory.
Stirling
Interactive smart screens at Mar Place & Friars Street
Ever wanted to learn more about Stirling Castle, the Battle of Bannockburn and Wallace Monument while on the go? Now you can with two interactive smart screens installed in Mar Place, near Stirling Castle, and Friars Street. Available in a variety of languages and providing assistance for people with disabilities, it’s a great way to showcase Stirling’s attractions and experiences.
World of Dinosaurs at Blair Drummond Safari Park
More than 20 life-size animated dinosaurs have been welcomed to the World of Dinosaurs attraction at Blair Drummond. Enter through the Jurassic Park-style gates and get up close and personal with lots of different dinosaurs including the Tyrannosaurus Rex and the largest dinosaur of them all, a 21 metre Diplodocus.
More ideas
Looking for more new places to discover across Scotland? Here are some articles to help get you started:
- Staycation Ideas: Short Breaks in Scotland
- 9 City Tour Ideas in Scotland
- 26 Standout Indie Shops in Scotland’s Cities
- 30 Amazing Photography Spots in Scotland’s Cities
- 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Cities in Scotland
- More ideas on city breaks in Scotland
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