Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland; My Top Areas & Hotels
To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this guide on where to stay in Edinburgh. I’ll walk you through my favorite areas of the city along with my personal favorite hotels.
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you shop through them, at no extra cost to you.
Edinburgh, in my opinion is one of the most overlooked cities in Europe. While everyone is heading to Paris, Berlin and London, so many people skip Edinburgh (or Scotland as a whole) and are totally missing out.
Edinburgh has a stunning Old Town follow of closes, secret underground tunnels, cozy pubs and an unbelievable medieval castle perched upon a rocky cliff right in the middle of it all.
Personally, I love Edinburgh any time of year - but if you’re hoping for a (potentially) sunnier experience, summer is a wonderful time to visit with long, mild days perfect for exploring.
In A Rush? HereAre My Top Hotels in Edinburgh:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Virgin Hotel Edinburgh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Scotsman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Malmaison Edinburgh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kickass Greyfriars Hostel
Where to Stay in Edinburgh: My Experience
Before we dig into the hotels, I want to give you a better sense of my own experiences in Edinburgh. In 2009, I lived in Edinburgh as a study abroad student. My flat was just a few blocks from the Grassmarket and I fell in love with the city the moment I stepped foot off the Airlink.
I have core memories of dragging all of my luggage from Princes Street, up over the mound to the Grassmarket because I was too broke (and also probably a bit stubborn) to get a cab. Those study abroad days were how I learned to travel on a tight budget - finding the pubs with the best value and hopping on the bus and riding it to the end of the route just to see where it would lead (this is how I discovered hidden gems like Cramond Island and Portobello Beach).
Since then, I’ve been back to visit with a grown up budget and have been able to upgrade from hostels to proper hotels and restaurants that don’t serve food from a to-go container (although these are still come of my faves!).
In the summer, the sun doesn’t set until after 10 pm and starts coming back up shortly after 3 am - these long days leave plenty of time to explore everything Edinburgh has to offer and you’ll find lively pubs keeping the city alive well into the night.
In winter, the days are shorter but it really gives you a vibe that you have stepped back into medieval times as you wander the streets of Old Town.
Best Areas to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland
In all my visits to Edinburgh, I’ve almost always stayed in Old Town. The vibe there just speaks to me more than anywhere else. I’ll share a little on both of Edinburgh’s central neighborhoods - with ample public transportation you really can’t go wrong in any part of the city.
Edinburgh’s Old Town
Old Town is the heart of Edinburgh - you can even find a literal “Heart of Midlothain” along the Royal Mile that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood. Old Town, is known for it’s medieval architecture and it is here that you will find other popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Mary King’s Close, St. Giles Cathedral, the Grassmarket, Victoria Street, pubs, chippies, and a graveyards with headstones that inspired Harry Potter characters.
Edinburgh’s New Town
Located on the north of Old Town is Edinburgh’s New Town - marked by it’s Georgian architecture, it’s here that you will find high street shops, Prince’s Street Gardens, the Sir Walter Scott memorial. This is a wonderful location to stay if you want views of the castle from you room but is still easy walking distance to Old Town sights.
My Favorite Places to Stay in Edinburgh Scotland
Best Hotels in Old Town, Edinburgh
Looking for great hotels near Edinburgh Castle? Start here!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Located along Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is a luxurious 5-star boutique hotel. If that wasn’t enough, this hotel ranked #4 Best Hotel in the UK in Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025.
The hotel’s design combines Victorian architecture with playful wallpapers, bold murals and neon signs. True to the Virgin brand, the guest rooms are designed to be “fun and flexible” featuring Smeg fridges and yoga mats in every room. One of the other top selling points in the rooftop terrace with unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The Scotsman
We stayed at The Scotsman on my last trip to Edinburgh and it was such a treat. It is a bit upscale but still very reasonably priced for the level of service and accommodations. The Scotsman opened in 1905 and is named for the the national newspaper for this the Baroque style building was originally built as the headquarters.
The lobby, with a cozy fire place, feels like you’ve stepped into a castle’s version of a living room - right in the middle of the city. With renovations in recent years, the rooms are cozy and modern with stunning bathrooms.
The Scotsman’s location next to Waverley Station made it incredibly easy to get to upon our arrival into Edinburgh (pro tip: look for their entrance on Market Street).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Kickass Greyfriars Hostel
Kickass Greyfriars was the first place I ever stayed in Edinburgh and my first ever hostel experience. And to be honest, this hostel kind of ruined all other hostels for me. There are a variety of room types available including private dorm, quad and shared dorm spaces to accommodate travelers on a budget.
What makes this hostel so great is its prime location in the Grassmarket, giving guests easy access to everything Old Town Edinburgh has to offer.
2. Best Hotels in New Town, Edinburgh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 100 Princes Street
100 Princes Street sets a new standard in luxury hospitality. Located in what was once the Royal Overseas League headquarters, it is an escape to a world where Scottish tradition and modern luxury converge.
The rooms at 100 Princes Street are adorned with handcrafted, locally soured furnishings the celebrate Scotland’s history - some featuring incredible views of Edinburgh Castle. Guests will enjoy the personal ‘anything, anytime’ service during their stay along with opportunities to participate in whisky tastings and high tea.
If you don’t want to take my word for it, 100 Princes Street was named Travel & Leisure’s “Best New City Hotel” in the world in 2025, and the 16th best hotel in the UK by Condé Nast and has received 1 Michelin Key award.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Balmoral Hotel
Perhaps best known for being the location where J.K. Rowling wrote the final pages of the Harry Potter series, the Balmoral Hotel is an iconic landmark in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Balmoral calls itself a ‘love letter to Scotland’ and I could not agree more. The hotel opened in 1902 and offers bespoke rooms and suites decked out in the Balmoral tartan, featuring Hebridean blues and heather hues paired with Scottish art.
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in a Harry Potter experience, the J.K. Rowling Suite would be the perfect accommodation. If a spa is a must have on your list, the Irene Forte Spa at the Balmoral is sure to satisfy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG
The Kimpton Charlotte Square is made up of seven interconnected Georgian townhouses, overlooking a stunning private garden in the heart of New Town. It’s classical exterior is paired with sophisticated, vibrant interior that effortlessly blends modern and antique furnishings.
For those that need more room to spread out - whether you’re travling with family or with a group, the Kimpton Charlotte Square offers a ‘hotel within a hotel’ at No. 33 Charlotte Square. A private townhome featuring a private entrance and room for up to 20 guests in 12 guest rooms, a private host and shared spaces.
Inspired by the spa towns that rose to popularity in the 19th century, the Spa at Charlotte Square is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after climbing Edinburgh’s famed hills.
3. Great Hotels in other Edinburgh Neighborhoods
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Hoxton (Haymarket)
Similar to the Kimpton, the Hoxton is set in 11 interconnected, Georgian townhouses - this time in the Haymarket neighborhood a little west of the city’s center. The Hoxton’s room are inspired by the Georigan architecture with playful modern touches.
This hotel is a great option for families - with bunk rooms that are available as connecting rooms so that everyone one has plenty of space to spread out.
The Haymarket neighborhood is perfect for travelers looking for a quieter stay that still has easy access to the main sights - just a short train or bus ride away. Plus, did I mention - the Hoxton is dog friendly?!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Roseate (West Coates)
The Roseat is located in Edinburgh’s West End an done of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh. As you arrive, you’ll discover an iconic Victorian townhome. Decked out in Scottish tartans and tweeds, this hotel offers understated charm paired with luxury comfort.
My Top Activities for Edinburgh
FAQs About the Best Hotels in Edinburgh, Scotland
What is the best luxury hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland?
My vote for best luxury hotel in Edinburgh goes to 100 Princes Street. This 5-star hotel has earned 1 Michelin Key. It’s location along Princes Street provides guests with uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle. And, with just 30 rooms, this hotel is an exclusive retreat in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
What is the most budget friendly place to stay in Edinburgh, Scotland?
My vote for best budget friendly accommodations in Edinburgh, Scotland is Kickass Greyfriars. This adults-only hostel offers a range of accommodation types to accommodate budget travelers looking to stay in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
What is the best area in Edinburgh, Scotland?
Personally, my favorite place to stay is in Old Town. I lived just blocks from the Grassmarket and loved feeling like I stepped back in time every time I opened my front door. While many of the shops in this area are geared towards tourists, there are plenty of pubs & delicious restaurants to select from. Plus, this area provides easy access to some of the major attractions that draw visitors to Edinburgh daily (think, Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyrood, Arthur’s Seat and more.
What is there to do in Edinburgh, Scotland?
The city has so much to offer visitors - a taste of royal history, art galleries, incredible food and so much more. There truly is a little something for every type of traveler. For those who love Harry Potter, or Outlander - Edinburgh is the perfect jumping off point for seeing filming locations IRL and discovering the places that inspired these stories.
Is Edinburgh Scotland worth visiting?
In my opinion, absolutely. Despite being one of the biggest cities in Great Britain, Edinburgh has so much charm. The various architecture throughout the city weaves a story of history that will transport you back to medieval times or the regency era. Edinburgh is sure to steal a piece of your heart.
What is the best way to get to Edinburgh, Scotland?
Flying into Edinburgh:
The closest airport to Edinburgh is…. Edinburgh Airport (EDI). It is located in the Ingliston area of Edinburgh about a 20 minute drive from the main city center. This international airport has several direct flights available to/from the United States as well as major airports throughout Europe.
Airport Transfers:
🚋 By Tram: Trams are one of the easiest ways to get to from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh’s city center. They depart every 7 minutes between the hours of 7am - 7 p.m. The journey to the City Center (Waverley Station) takes about 30 minutes. Tickets can be pre-purchased online or at the airport before boarding. There are several stops along the route that may be closer to your lodging - be sure to check the route map in advance to select the stop that best fits your needs.
🚌 By Bus: Bus services are available to Edinburgh as well as other cities throughout Scotland. Utilize the Airlink 100 route or Airport Express services for the most efficient routes into Edinburgh’s City Center. For a more affordable option, though less efficient, take the 17 or 18 Lothian Bus to reach the city center - expect this option to take about an hour or more. More information on bus routes and options can be found here.
🚕 By taxi: The taxi rank can be found in the East Terminus near the airport arrivals area. You can make a booking online in advance or upon your arrival at the rank. Fares are set by the City of Edinburgh council and apply to all taxis that operate at the airport. A copy of the fare table can be found here.
Arriving to Edinburgh by Train:
Edinburgh is easily accessible by train from other areas of the UK including London, Glasgow and Manchester to name a few. If you are looking for a truly unique experience, consider booking a ticket on the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Edinburgh. Most trains will stop at Edinburgh Waverley station located in the heart of the city center. From there you can walk, take a taxi or bus to your accommodations.
Getting Around Edinburgh:
Do you need a rental car in Edinburgh? Honestly, no - probably not. The only reason to rent a car is if you plan to explore beyond the city up into the Highlands or other areas of Scotland.
Edinburgh is very walkable, if you’re up for climbing some hills. If you prefer to take a ride, there is abundant public transportation including a robust bus system that can get you most anywhere. Taxi’s are also very easy to find in Edinburgh and reasonably priced. Was it even a proper trip to the UK if you didn’t take a ride in a classic black cab?
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you shop through them, at no extra cost to you.
Hi, I’m Jess
I’m here to help you plan epic adventures. If you’re looking for authentic travel guides that mix luxe lodging and incredible dining with out of this world hikes and adventures, you’re in the right place.
