An unforgettable night in a prestigious establishment or a cosy stay in a charming hotel? Edinburgh is brimming with characterful accommodation, combining history and modernity, from Victorian palaces to contemporary boutique hotels. It’s a tough choice, but we’ve made a selection for you:
- our tips on the best areas to stay in Edinburgh,
- our list of the 12 best hotels in , plus a few extras.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The best hotels in Edinburgh: our 4 favourites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our 4 favorite addresses.
Best historic hotel: Prestonfield House Hotel
We loved the leafy setting ofPrestonfield House Hotel, at the foot ofArthur’s Seat. The establishment offers a unique luxury experience in exceptional surroundings. It’s a 5-star retreat with baroque-style rooms and a refined restaurant, the Rhubarb, where you can enjoy delicious Scottish cuisine. Surrounded by gardens and a golf course, the hotel is an incredible haven of peace just minutes from the city center.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best boutique hotel: Hotel Eden Locke
Less than 20min walk from Edinburgh Castle, we really liked theEden Locke Hotel‘s accommodation concept. Its contemporary apartments combine soft aesthetics and functionality, with fully equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces. The sleek decor and personalized service make this the address of choice for travelers seeking independence without compromising on style.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel
TheGleneagles TownhouseHotel embodies Scottish luxury excellence in the heart of Edinburgh. Aside from its facilities (gym, sauna and gourmet restaurant), it’s its architecture and design elements that impressed us most. The staircase in the lobby alone is a promise. Just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile and Waverley Station, it’s a symbol of elegance.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best spa hotel: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
At the very end of George Street, theKimpton Charlotte Square Hotel boasts exceptional wellness facilities. Its spa offers a full range of treatments, while the indoor pool and gym are accessible free of charge. In addition to these 2 restaurants, don’t miss The Garden, an idyllic setting for breakfast or evening cocktails. Relaxation guaranteed!
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Edinburgh: best districts
Why stay in Edinburgh?
Scotland’s historic capital, Edinburgh is a blend of medieval (Old Town) and Georgian (New Town) architecture. We really appreciated the unique, warm atmosphere of this city, where every street tells a part of its history. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with stylish, characterful accommodation.
Edinburgh’s best places to stay: map
Here’s our map to help you get your bearings, with the main areas to stay in Edinburgh:
Staying in Old Town
Old Town is the UNESCO-listed historic heart of Edinburgh. We enjoyed getting lost in its secret passages, the closes, and playing scare tactics in its underground vaults. This part of the city is home to the main monuments, including the famous Royal Mile linking Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. We enjoyed the atmosphere of this district, which exudes history around every corner.
Benefits:
- Close to major tourist attractions
- Preserved medieval architecture
- Many traditional restaurants and pubs
- Excellent transport network
Disadvantages:
- Very touristy in high season
- High accommodation prices
- Sloping streets
- Difficult parking
Our favorite hotel: Hotel The Inn on the Mile
Staying in New Town
New Town, with its 18th-century Georgian architecture, offers a striking contrast to Old Town. We particularly enjoyed the wide avenues lined with eleganttownhouses. This chic district is also home to excellent restaurants and renowned art galleries. From Princes Street Gardens, the main thoroughfare, the view of Edinburgh Castle is breathtaking.
Benefits:
- Majestic Georgian architecture
- Excellent restaurants
- Quieter than Old Town, but lively in the evening
- Easy access to transport
Disadvantages:
- High accommodation prices
- A little further from the main attractions
- Paid parking
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Eden Locke
Staying in Prestonfield
Just 3km from the Royal Mile, Prestonfield offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center. We loved its upscale residential ambience and green spaces. This leafy area, bordered by Holyrood Parc and Arthur’s Seat, allows you to enjoy the peace and quiet while remaining close to the main attractions.
Benefits:
- Quiet, green surroundings
- Residential setting
- Easy parking
- View of Arthur’s Seat
- Some very good restaurants
Disadvantages:
- Distance from downtown
- Need to use transport
- Few shops
- Limited accommodation on offer
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Prestonfield House
Other useful tips to keep in mind
The Edinburgh International Festival in August attracts thousands of visitors, so book well in advance for this period. The summer months are the most popular, with prices rising significantly. If you’re coming by car, it’s best to stay in a hotel with a parking lot, as parking in the city center is complex and expensive.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Scotland
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that’s not too wide, as some roads have only one lane.
- Book early for choice.
See our tips (coming soon)
1. Prestonfield House Hotel
Why stay there?
Nestled in a leafy setting at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, thePrestonfield House Hotel offers a unique luxury experience in exceptional surroundings. This 5-star manor house features elegant rooms with period furnishings and breathtaking views over the gardens and park.
The Rhubarb Restaurant offers delicious Scottish cuisine in a refined setting. We were won over by the unique atmosphere of this historic establishment. What would you say to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city in this haven of peace?
Access
- 5-minute walk from a bus stop serving the city center
- 3km from the Royal Mile
- At the foot of Arthur’s Seat
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Prestonfield
- 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, Restaurant Rhubarb (Scottish cuisine)
- Afternoon Tea
- Facilities: lounges, whisky bar, terrace, golf course
- Services: room service, 24-hour reception
- Parking: free on site
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Eden Locke Hotel
Why stay there?
Just 1 km from Edinburgh Castle, theEden Locke Hotel offers modern, functional accommodation perfect for extended stays. Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, oven and microwave, as well as a comfortable seating area.
The contemporary, uncluttered decor in soft colors creates a warm, soothing atmosphere. We particularly appreciated the independence offered by this establishment in a slightly less touristy area. If you want to live like a local while enjoying the services of a hotel, Hotel Eden Locke will be perfect for you.
Access
- On George Street
- 5min walk from Princes Street Gardens
- 2 steps from Charlotte Square
- 1.2 km from the Royal Mile
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, the Mayvn Cafe
- Facilities: fully equipped kitchen, elevator
- Services: 24-hour reception
- Breakfast available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. The Inn on the Mile Hotel
Why stay there?
On the famous Royal Mile, theThe Inn on the Mile offered us an extraordinary experience right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. The building is in fact the former headquarters of the British Linen Bank, converted into a pub and hotel. The 9 rooms are spread over three floors. They combine modern comfort with traditional charm.
The ground-floor pub, with its industrial design elements and neon lights, has direct access to the Royal Mile. The atmosphere in this historic establishment is warm and inviting, and we enjoyed sharing a Scottish breakfast while watching thebustle of Edinburgh’s most famousstreet!
Access
- 5min walk from Edinburgh Castle
- 2min walk from Waverley Station
- Airlink bus service to the airport every 10 minutes
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, Scottish breakfast and pub menu
- Facilities: Terrace on the Royal Mile, live concerts in the evening
- Services: laundry
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
4. Eleven Stafford Street Hotel
Why stay there?
In a quiet side street, theEleven Stafford Street Hotel is strategically located close to Edinburgh Castle. We loved the authentic charm of this traditional townhouse. The particularly refined decor of the rooms combines stylish effect with modern comfort.
The hotel has no front desk. A personal code is used to guarantee security and confidentiality. However, a butler lives upstairs to attend to guests’ needs and ensure their comfort during their stay.
Access
- 5min walk from Princes Street
- 15min walk from Grassmarket
- 20min walk from the Royal Mile
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 4 stars
- Catering: no
- Facilities: access code, umbrellas
- Services: butler in the building
- Non-smoking establishment
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
5. Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel
Why stay there?
TheGleneagles Townhouse Hotel embodies urban elegance in the heart of Edinburgh. Every detail has been taken care of in this 5-star establishment. The rooms are decorated in a perfect blend of Georgian architecture and modern tones. A highly prestigious setting where everything is awe-inspiring.
The Spence Restaurant offers a refined gastronomic experience in a particularly elegant setting. We were impressed by the impeccable level of service. Just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile, the Gleneagles Hotel offers the perfect balance of luxury and central location.
Access
- 15min walk from Edinburh Castle
- 5min from Waverley Station
- 30min drive from Edinburgh airport
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, The Spence Restaurant has a Michelin rating
- Afternoon Tea
- Facilities: spa, wellness center, gym, sauna
- Services: room service, 24-hour reception, airport shuttle
- Family rooms available
- Parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
6. The Scotsman Hotel
Why stay there?
Housed in theformer headquarters of the prestigious newspaper The Scotsman, as is often the case in Edinburgh, this hotel combines history with modern luxury. All rooms and suites are individually decorated. Some feature large corner windows offering spectacular views of the castle and the city.
Enjoy the comfort of marble bathrooms and Egyptian cotton linens. For those of us who love the cinema, we’ve found a 48-seat private room that adds a special touch to this boutique hotel.
Access
- 1min walk from the Royal Mile
- 1min walk from Princes Street
- Direct access to Waverley Station
- Discounted parking 5-10 minutes away on foot
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- Restaurant: yes, The Grand Cafe, The Hide Bar and The Press Bar
- Facilities: private cinema, fitness center
- Services: 24-hour room service, 24-hour reception
- Family rooms available
- The Scotsman newspaper free
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
7. Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Why stay there?
Just a stone’s throw from prestigious Princes Street and George Street, theKimpton Charlotte Square Hotel combines contemporary luxury with traditional charm. The discreetly and elegantly decorated rooms offer exceptional comfort. Gastronomy is also very much in evidence at this address.
While the modern cuisine of Restaurant Aizle has won Michelin recognition, we were able to sample the Mediterranean flavors of Restaurant BABA. As for The Garden‘s inner courtyard, it welcomes you from breakfast to evening cocktails. Would you like to combine relaxation at the spa with gastronomic discovery during your stay in Edinburgh?
Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Spa with full range of treatments and massages (surcharge)
- Sound wellness room
- Sports hall
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes – Aizle, Baba and The Garden restaurants
- Facilities: swimming pool, spa, gym
- Services: private parking
- Family rooms available
- Distance from station: 5min walk
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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8. Balmoral Hotel
Why stay there?
A veritable institution since 1902, theBalmoral Hotel sits enthroned on Princes Street with its majestic clock tower. This 5-star establishment embodies Scottish hotel excellence. Its Number One Restaurant has been awarded 4 AA rosettes, and its Scotch Bar offers over 500 whiskies.
The spacious rooms feature marble bathrooms, some with spectacular views of the castle. You’ll appreciate the quality of service and attention to detail. The Palm Court, with its traditional tea service, has become one of our favorite places in Edinburgh. Why not treat yourself to an exceptional moment in this emblematic palace of the Scottish capital?
Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Spa with sauna and Turkish hammam
- 5 treatment cabins
- Fully-equipped gym
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 5 stars
- Restaurants: Number One (4 AA rosettes), Brasserie et Bar Prince, Palm Court (tea room) and Scotch (whiskies)
- Facilities: swimming pool, full spa, gym
- Services: room service, parking
- Family rooms available
- 25min drive from the airport
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
9. Righ Residences Hotel
Why stay there?
Ideally located in the heart of Edinburgh on George Street,Righ Residences Hotel offers contemporary accommodation less than 15min walk from the Royal Mile. The apartments offer comfortable, functional living space. Breakfast is served in a choice of continental, English or vegetarian options.
The hotel seemed to us to perfectly combine the independence of an apartment with the services of a top-of-the-range hotel. The modern, elegant decor creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Would you like to enjoy a luxurious pied-à-terre in the heart of the action, while retaining your independence?
Access
- Less than 15min walk from the Royal Mile
- On George Street
- Airport shuttle service (chargeable)
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- 4 stars
- Breakfast: continental, English or vegetarian
- Facilities: fully equipped kitchenette, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi
- Services: airport shuttle, PRM facilities
- Family rooms available
- Elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
10. The Witchery by the Castle Hotel
Why stay there?
One of a kind,The Witchery by the Castle offers 9 sumptuous suites in distinctive styles. Each suite is a decorative “masterpiece”, with oak four-poster beds, velvet-upholstered walls and flamboyant red and gold accents.
But it was the restaurant ‘s decadent backyard setting that most appealed to us, as it did to many celebrities. We loved the romantic , gothic atmosphere of the place. Tea time is also an experience in itself. A unique theatrical moment at one of Edinburgh’s most exclusive addresses?
Access
- Privileged location on the Royal Mile
- In the immediate vicinity of Edinburgh Castle
- View of the old town
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes – Original Dining Room and Secret Garden
- Facilities: terrace, heating, free Wi-Fi
- Services: 24-hour reception, breakfast in basket or in the restaurant
- 9 unique suites with bathrooms featuring silver island baths
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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11. Fraser Suites
Why stay there?
Nestled in a beautifully preserved 130-year-old Victorian building, theFraser Suites Hotel brilliantly combines historic charm with modern comfort. Its 75 elegant apartments offer all the services of an upscale hotel while preserving the intimacy of home. The sandstone façade is itself a landmark of the old town.
We particularly liked the convenient laundry service and the well-equipped gym. The privileged location within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.
Access
- On St Giles Street, in the heart of the old town
- A side street off the Royal Mile
- A few steps from St Giles Cathedral
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- Services: 24-hour reception, laundry
- Facilities: fitness center
- Family rooms available
- PMR equipment
- Breakfast available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
12. House of Gods Hotel
Why stay there?
On a street just off the Royal Mile, theHouse of Gods Hotel resembles a nightclub, with its neon lights, dark wood panelling and thick crimson velvet curtains. Walk through the dimly lit bar to the reception area, housed in an alcove like a checkroom. This is the entrance to the rooms. A very private club atmosphere!
We had booked a Cabin, a tiny room fitted out like a ship’s cabin. Again, red velvet, tapestries and subdued lighting… It’s great fun for a romantic night out, but if you’re staying longer, you’d be better off in a classic room or suite, as it’s less cramped. The service is friendly and trendy.
Access
- 2 steps from the National Museum of Scotland
- Behind St Giles’ Cathedral
- 5min walk from Waverley Station
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- 4 stars
- Facilities: bar, disco
- Services: room service, 24-hour reception
- A la carte or continental breakfast
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
discover edinburgh
- What to do in Edinburgh (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
Other options and cheap hotels in Edinburgh
In this section, you’ll find some hotels we’d also like to mention.
- Hotel Cheval Old Town Chambers (Old Town): Check photos and availability – and book!
- Hotel The Raeburn (Stockbridge): Check photos and availability – and book!
- The Haymarket Hotel (West End): Check photos and availability – and book now!
