Edinburgh welcomes Muslim travelers with historic attractions, halal restaurants, and Scottish hospitality. While smaller than London or Birmingham’s Muslim scene, the Scottish capital has solid options. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Edinburgh for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.
Must-See Attractions
- Edinburgh Castle: Iconic fortress
- Royal Mile: Historic main street
- Arthur’s Seat: Volcanic hill hike
- Holyrood Palace: Queen’s residence
- Scottish Parliament: Modern architecture
Halal Food Scene
Nicolson Street Area
Edinburgh’s curry mile:
- Mosque Kitchen: Famous £5 curry
- Kebab Mahal: Late-night legend
- Indian restaurants: Several options
- Near University of Edinburgh
Other Areas
- Leith Walk: Turkish and Middle Eastern
- City Centre: Some halal options
- Haymarket: Near tourist sites
Halal Haggis
Try Scotland’s national dish:
- Crescent Foods: Halal butcher
- Some curry houses: Serve halal version
- Made with halal lamb
- Traditional taste, Islamic preparation
Mosques
- Edinburgh Central Mosque: Main mosque, beautiful building
- University prayer rooms
- Friday prayers: Well attended
Mosque Kitchen
Edinburgh institution:
- Behind Central Mosque
- £5-7 per meal: Huge portions
- Cafeteria style: No frills
- Curry, biryani, kebabs
- Lunch queue: Go early
Festival Tips
Edinburgh Festival (August):
- Book restaurants: Very busy
- Mosque Kitchen: Always available
- Accommodation scarce: Book months ahead
- Street performers: Enjoy the atmosphere
Best Experiences
- Mosque Kitchen lunch: Budget halal
- Castle visit: Then halal dinner
- Royal Mile walk: Historic Edinburgh
- Arthur’s Seat hike: Pack halal snacks
- Halal haggis: Try the Scottish dish
Practical Tips
- Nicolson Street: Best halal area
- Mosque Kitchen early: Beat the queue
- Festival planning: Book everything ahead
- Cash useful: Some small places
- Weather prepared: Rain likely