Summer in Edinburgh is something special.

As soon as the sun comes out, the city completely transforms. Locals spill onto pavements with iced coffees, Princes Street Gardens fills with picnics, and every weekend feels like an excuse to discover somewhere new.

As an Edinburgh-born jewellery brand, we've spent years finding our favourite independent cafés, restaurants, shops and hidden gems around the city. So whether you're visiting for the Fringe, planning a girls' weekend or simply looking for new places to explore, here are some of our favourite RJ Girl-approved recommendations.

Discover Independent Jewellery at Recreation Jewels

No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to our flagship store on Thistle Street.

Browse our latest waterproof and hypoallergenic jewellery collections, discover our bestselling pieces, or pick up something special to remember your trip. If you're visiting during the summer, you'll also be able to try one of our seasonal ceremonial-grade matcha specials while you shop.

If you're looking for something even more personal, book a private appointment at our Charm Bar, located in the Recreation Jewels headquarters just around the corner on Hanover Street.

Unlike a traditional jewellery store, our Charm Bar is a private experience where you can create your own personalised necklace, bracelet, bag charm or keyring from hundreds of different charms. It's perfect for birthdays, girls' weekends or creating a keepsake from your time in Edinburgh.

Our Favourite Lunch Spots

Edinburgh has no shortage of incredible places to eat, but one restaurant we always find ourselves recommending is Stockbridge Eating House.

Tucked away in the heart of Stockbridge, this tiny neighbourhood restaurant has only a handful of tables and serves what we genuinely think is some of the best food in Edinburgh. The menu changes regularly with the seasons, and their lunch menu is one of the best-value meals in the city.

If you're looking for somewhere that feels like a local secret, this is it.

Browse Edinburgh's Best Independent Shops

One of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon is simply wandering around Edinburgh's independent shops.

If you love fashion, make sure to stop by Armstrongs Vintage, one of the city's best-known vintage stores, where every visit uncovers something different.

For beautifully curated fashion, Godiva is another favourite, while Black Moon Botanica is one of Edinburgh's most magical shops, filled with crystals, botanical treasures, homeware and unique gifts.

If you're a book lover, don't miss Rare Birds Book Shop in Stockbridge.

Specialising exclusively in books written by women, it's become one of the city's most loved independent bookshops and was even featured by Dua Lipa as one of her recommendations through her book club. Whether you're looking for your next holiday read or simply want to browse somewhere beautiful, it's well worth a visit.

Relax in Princes Street Gardens

When the weather is good, there's nowhere we'd rather be than Princes Street Gardens.

With Edinburgh Castle towering above you, it's one of the most iconic views in the city and the perfect place to spend an afternoon reading, catching up with friends or simply enjoying the sunshine.

If you're looking for that classic Edinburgh summer feeling, you'll find it here.

Picnic in The Meadows

No Edinburgh summer feels complete without at least one picnic in The Meadows.

Before heading over, stop by one of our favourite independent cafés, Salut, and pick up one of their homemade soups, freshly made sandwiches or a coffee to take away.

Find a sunny spot, bring a blanket and spend a few hours doing absolutely nothing.

Sometimes that's the best part of summer.

Watch the Sunset at Café Calton

For one of the best views in Edinburgh, head up to Café Calton.

Whether you're stopping for a coffee, a drink or simply taking in the view, it's one of our favourite places to watch the city turn golden as the sun begins to set.

It's the perfect place to end a summer afternoon before heading out for dinner.

Our Favourite Dinner & Drinks Spots

Edinburgh's food scene just keeps getting better, and there are a few places we always recommend.

If you're looking for incredible cocktails alongside equally incredible food, Evergreen in the West End is one of our absolute favourites.

For Japanese small plates, Nishiki never disappoints. Every dish we've tried has been exceptional, and it's one of those restaurants you'll immediately want to return to.

If you're after something perfect for sharing with friends, BABA serves some of our favourite Middle Eastern-inspired food right in the heart of the city.

And to round off the evening, head to St Bernard's Bar, the perfect mix between a cosy neighbourhood pub and a great cocktail bar. It's relaxed, welcoming and exactly where we love ending a summer evening.

Edinburgh, the RJ Way

What we love most about Edinburgh isn't just the landmarks, it's the independent businesses that give the city its personality.

The tiny restaurants with unforgettable food.

The vintage shops where you always leave with something unexpected.

The bookshops you could spend hours in.

The parks that become the city's living room every time the sun appears.

If you're visiting Edinburgh this summer, we hope you discover a few of your own favourite places along the way.

And if you happen to find yourself on Thistle Street, we'd love to welcome you into Recreation Jewels.