Discover Edinburgh - history, charm, and character-filled stays
Hotels in Edinburgh capture the city’s elegant mix of history and modern culture. Whether you’re staying in the cobbled Old Town beneath the Castle or the Georgian grace of New Town, you’ll find hotels full of character. Couples love the romantic boutique retreats, families enjoy spacious apartment hotels, and solo travellers appreciate friendly B&Bs in the city centre. Edinburgh’s hotels are all about location, comfort, and a touch of Scottish magic.
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Edinburgh Castle
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
From castle views to waterfront stays, Edinburgh’s compact layout means you’re never far from the action. Choose your base depending on what kind of trip you’re planning.
Old Town – The historic heart of Edinburgh, packed with medieval closes, the Royal Mile, and iconic landmarks. Ideal for first-time visitors, culture lovers, and couples wanting atmospheric hotels within walking distance of the Castle and Holyrood Palace.
New Town – Elegant Georgian streets, designer shops, and smart restaurants make this area perfect for city breaks and families. It’s quieter than Old Town but still central, with top hotels overlooking Princes Street Gardens.
Leith – Edinburgh’s trendy waterfront district, known for creative energy and Michelin-star dining. Great for families and foodies who prefer a relaxed, modern base close to the city centre by tram or bus.
Haymarket and West End – A transport hub area with affordable hotels and easy access to the airport, making it perfect for business travellers, short-stay visitors, and solo guests.
Grassmarket and Cowgate – The lively quarter beneath the Castle, full of bars and music venues. Best for younger travellers and weekend groups looking for a social scene within walking distance of everything.
Cowgate, Edinburgh
Best Hotels in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a rich hotel scene shaped by its history and style – from Gothic hideaways and luxury castle-view suites to budget hostels and family apartments. Here are the best picks by traveller type.
Best Hotels for Couples in Edinburgh
The Witchery by the Castle (5-star) – A romantic Gothic-style inn on the Royal Mile, famed for candlelit suites with four-poster beds and antique decor. Perfect for honeymooners and anniversary trips.
100 Princes Street (5-star) – Luxury city hotel in New Town with stylish interiors and sweeping views of the Castle. Couples love the elegant atmosphere and proximity to shopping and dining.
Fingal (5-star) – A unique floating hotel moored in Leith. Luxurious cabins, fine dining, and private decks make it a memorable choice for romantic getaways.
The Rutland Hotel (4-star) – A chic boutique hotel near Princes Street Gardens. Guests praise its personal touches and intimate atmosphere, ideal for city-centre stays.
Best Hotels for Families in Edinburgh
Ocean Mist Leith (4-star) – A stylish converted boat hotel offering larger rooms and suites with a nautical twist. Families enjoy the fun setting and easy tram access to central attractions.
Rock House (4-star) – A historic New Town home turned guest residence with multiple bedrooms and family facilities. Great for multi-generational stays or longer visits.
Apex Grassmarket Hotel (4-star) – Family-friendly rooms with Castle views, an indoor pool, and central location perfect for sightseeing and dining.
Staycity Aparthotels (4-star) – Modern serviced apartments across Edinburgh offering kitchenettes and sofa beds. Ideal for families who want space, flexibility, and easy access to the Royal Mile or Haymarket.
Best Budget and Solo Traveller Hotels in Edinburgh
Kick Ass Hostels, Grassmarket (3-star) – Highly rated by solo travellers for its social atmosphere and safety. Offers dorms and private rooms just steps from Old Town nightlife.
Royal Mile Backpackers (2-star) – Friendly hostel with female-only rooms and a communal kitchen. Solo guests appreciate the central location and welcoming staff.
Haymarket Hub Hotel (3-star) – Compact, affordable rooms beside Haymarket Station. Great for short breaks or solo travellers needing transport connections and modern facilities.
Cityroomz Edinburgh (3-star) – Budget-friendly hotel near Princes Street offering single rooms and convenient access to trams and buses.
Best Hotels for History and Culture Lovers
The Witchery by the Castle (5-star) – Live like royalty in opulent Gothic suites beside Edinburgh Castle. Every corner tells a story, and the restaurant is a local landmark.
Rock House (4-star) – Built in the 1750s, this period gem lets guests stay amid history, with antique furnishings and city views.
The Balmoral (5-star) – Edinburgh’s grand railway hotel with its iconic clocktower. Guests praise its heritage charm, afternoon tea, and location at the heart of Princes Street.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile (5-star) – Blends modern design with Old Town heritage, placing guests in the middle of the city’s cultural heart.
Best Hotels for Short Breaks and Weekend Trips
Apex Waterloo Place (4-star) – A smart, centrally located hotel close to Waverley Station and Princes Street. Ideal for 2-3 night city stays.
The Malmaison Edinburgh (4-star) – Trendy boutique hotel in Leith offering relaxed luxury and easy access to both waterfront dining and city centre.
The Principal Charlotte Square (5-star) – A stylish New Town retreat with spa, courtyard bar, and easy access to George Street nightlife.
Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle – Scotland’s most famous fortress, towering over the city. Explore royal chambers, museums, and panoramic views.
- Royal Mile – The city’s historic spine lined with shops, restaurants, and medieval architecture. Perfect for walking tours and souvenirs.
- Arthur’s Seat – A short but steep hike to a volcanic summit with unbeatable city views.
- Holyrood Palace and Scottish Parliament – Explore royal and political landmarks at the bottom of the Royal Mile.
- National Museum of Scotland – Family-friendly museum with hands-on exhibits covering science, nature, and Scottish heritage.
- Princes Street Gardens – The city’s green heart, ideal for a picnic or quiet stroll between Old and New Town.
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile
Getting to and Around Edinburgh
By Train or Bus: Edinburgh Waverley Station sits between Old and New Town, with fast services to London, Glasgow, and beyond. The Airlink 100 bus and trams link the airport to the centre in 30 minutes.
By Car: The city is compact but parking is limited. Most visitors skip driving and use public transport or taxis.
Getting Around: Walking is the best way to explore, especially around Old and New Town. Buses and trams cover wider routes, and day passes make sightseeing simple.
When to Visit Edinburgh
Spring – Longer days, blooming parks, and comfortable 10-15 °C temperatures. Ideal for sightseeing before summer crowds.
Summer – Festival season (July-August) fills the city with music, comedy, and street performers. Expect busy hotels and highs around 20 °C.
Autumn – Golden trees in Princes Street Gardens and quieter attractions. Mild weather (10-14 °C) and great value stays.
Winter – Cold but magical, with festive lights, Christmas markets, and the Hogmanay celebrations. Average highs 5-8 °C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should couples stay in Edinburgh
Old Town and New Town boutique hotels like The Witchery, Fingal, and 100 Princes Street are favourites for romantic breaks and anniversaries.
Is Edinburgh good for solo travellers
Absolutely. Central hostels and B&Bs like Kick Ass Hostels and Haymarket Hub Hotel are safe, sociable, and near public transport.
Which area suits history lovers best
The Old Town is steeped in heritage. Stay near the Royal Mile or Castle for a true sense of Edinburgh’s past.
Can you walk everywhere in Edinburgh
Yes, most major sights are within 20 minutes’ walk. The tram and bus system is also easy to use for longer trips.
Does easyStay offer flexible booking
Yes, many hotels on Easystay include free cancellation, letting you plan your Edinburgh stay with peace of mind.
Book Your Stay in Edinburgh Today
From romantic castle-view suites to budget-friendly hostels and family apartments, a hotel in Edinburgh puts history, culture, and Scottish charm on your doorstep.
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