Welcome to Edinburgh, a city where ancient history meets vibrant culture, stunning architecture greets you at every turn, and the echoes of kings and scholars linger in the air. Planning a trip to Scotland’s captivating capital? Finding the right place to stay is crucial for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking lavish luxury, comfortable mid-range options, or budget-friendly bases for exploration, Edinburgh offers a diverse range of accommodations.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the city’s lodging landscape. We’ll explore top-rated hotels across different price points – Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget-Friendly – presenting five distinct options in each category. Each recommendation comes with details on its unique features, approximate price range, and why it might be the perfect fit for your Edinburgh adventure. Let’s find your home away from home in this magical city!
Opulent Escapes: Edinburgh’s Finest Luxury Hotels
For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort, service, and style, Edinburgh’s luxury hotels offer world-class experiences, often in landmark buildings with breathtaking views and exceptional amenities.
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Price Range: Approximately £400+ per night
Features & Highlights: An iconic Edinburgh landmark located at No. 1 Princes Street, The Balmoral boasts stunning castle views from many rooms. Its majestic clock tower is a city symbol. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining at ‘Number One’, sophisticated afternoon tea at Palm Court, a comprehensive spa with an indoor pool, and impeccable Rocco Forte service. The kilted doormen add a touch of Scottish charm to the grand entrance.
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
Price Range: Approximately £350+ per night
Features & Highlights: Situated at the West End of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway hotel exudes historic grandeur. “The Caley,” as it’s affectionately known, offers unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views. It features luxurious rooms, the UK’s only Guerlain Spa, an indoor pool, and fine dining options including Grazing by Mark Greenaway. Its Peacock Alley lounge, reminiscent of the New York original, is perfect for afternoon tea or cocktails.
Cheval Old Town Chambers
Price Range: Approximately £300+ per night (Apartments)
Features & Highlights: Offering luxury serviced apartments right off the Royal Mile, Cheval Old Town Chambers blends historic architecture with contemporary design. These apartments provide more space and privacy than traditional hotel rooms, featuring fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and stunning city views from many units. Ideal for longer stays or those wanting a home-like feel with 5-star service, including a 24-hour concierge.
The Witchery by the Castle
Price Range: Approximately £450+ per night (Suites)
Features & Highlights: Nestled at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery offers a unique, gothic, and opulent experience. It features nine lavishly decorated suites, each distinct with antique furniture, four-poster beds, roll-top baths, and rich fabrics, creating a theatrical and romantic atmosphere. Known for its atmospheric restaurant, it provides an indulgent and memorable stay in a prime historic location. Breakfast hampers delivered to the suite add to the exclusive feel.
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Price Range: Approximately £300+ per night
Features & Highlights: Located on a picturesque Georgian square in the New Town, the Kimpton Charlotte Square combines classic architecture with contemporary, boutique style. It features beautifully designed rooms, a lovely central courtyard garden (‘The Garden’), a popular Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant (BABA), and a sophisticated cocktail bar. Guests appreciate the complimentary evening social hour, stylish spa, and proximity to both shopping on George Street and the historic Old Town.
Comfort & Charm: Excellent Mid-Range Edinburgh Hotels
Offering a fantastic balance of comfort, style, and value, Edinburgh’s mid-range hotels provide quality amenities and convenient locations without the premium price tag of luxury establishments.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Price Range: Approximately £150 – £280 per night
Features & Highlights: Housed in a stylish Georgian building at the east end of Princes Street, Apex Waterloo Place offers chic rooms and excellent facilities. Guests enjoy access to a luxurious spa with a pool, sauna, and steam room. The hotel features Elliot’s restaurant and bar, serving Scottish cuisine. Its location is ideal for exploring Calton Hill, Princes Street shopping, and Waverley Station.
Hotel Du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens
Price Range: Approximately £160 – £300 per night
Features & Highlights: Although technically Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh is located in the Old Town, the *One Devonshire Gardens* property (often associated with the brand style) is in Glasgow. However, the **Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh** itself offers a similar boutique experience. Located in the Old Town, it occupies a former city asylum, adding unique character. Expect stylish rooms with monsoon showers, Egyptian cotton linen, a classic French bistro, and an extensive wine cellar. It provides a cozy, characterful stay close to key attractions.
The Rutland Hotel
Price Range: Approximately £140 – £260 per night
Features & Highlights: Situated in the West End, The Rutland combines a traditional Georgian townhouse exterior with contemporary interiors. It offers stylish rooms, luxury apartments, a popular steakhouse (Kyloe Restaurant & Grill), and a lively basement bar (The Huxley). Its location provides easy access to Princes Street and Haymarket Station, making it convenient for both leisure and business travelers.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh
Price Range: Approximately £180 – £320 per night
Features & Highlights: As the only 5-star hotel directly on the historic Royal Mile (often priced at the higher end of mid-range or touching luxury), this hotel offers an unbeatable location. It features contemporary design, rooms with vibrant decor, some offering castle or city views. Amenities include the Cucina restaurant, the stylish Epicurean bar, and proximity to major Old Town attractions like St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle.
Check Availability and Book Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh
The Raeburn
Price Range: Approximately £150 – £280 per night
Features & Highlights: Located in the charming Stockbridge area, a short walk or bus ride from the city center, The Raeburn is a beautifully restored Georgian house turned boutique hotel. It offers ten elegant rooms, a renowned brasserie restaurant, a cozy bar, and a lovely outdoor terrace. Perfect for those wanting a high-quality stay in a quieter, village-like neighborhood known for its independent shops and Sunday market.
Smart Savings: Top Budget-Friendly Edinburgh Stays
Traveling to Edinburgh doesn’t have to break the bank. The city offers numerous affordable accommodation options, including reliable chain hotels, independent guesthouses, and well-regarded hostels, often in convenient locations.
Haymarket Hub Hotel
Price Range: Approximately £70 – £150 per night
Features & Highlights: Located directly opposite Haymarket train station and tram stop, this hotel offers excellent transport links. Rooms are compact but modern and well-equipped with essentials like free Wi-Fi, USB charging points, and comfortable beds. It focuses on providing core comforts efficiently, making it a great base for exploring the city on a budget, especially if arriving by train or from the airport via tram.
ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Price Range: Approximately £80 – £160 per night
Features & Highlights: Situated in a prime New Town location near Princes Street and Waverley Station, this ibis Styles hotel offers colourful, themed rooms (often Scottish-inspired). Rates typically include a basic continental breakfast and Wi-Fi. It provides a reliable, cheerful, and centrally located budget option, perfect for shoppers and sightseers.
Check Availability and Book ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Castle Rock Hostel
Price Range: Approximately £25 – £80 per night (Dorms/Private Rooms)
Features & Highlights: A highly-rated hostel located very close to Edinburgh Castle. Housed in a grand 19th-century building, it offers a mix of dormitory beds and private rooms. Known for its quirky decor, friendly atmosphere, spacious common areas (including a movie room and internet lounge), and regular social events. An excellent choice for solo travelers and backpackers looking for affordability and a social vibe in a prime location.
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Price Range: Approximately £70 – £140 per night
Features & Highlights: Another solid option near Haymarket, Point A focuses on providing comfortable beds, power showers, fast Wi-Fi, and mood lighting in compact, efficiently designed rooms. While rooms are small and amenities basic (e.g., breakfast is usually extra), it offers a clean, modern, and affordable base with good transport links. Ideal for travelers who plan to spend most of their time out exploring.
Check Availability and Book Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
CoDE Pod Hostels – The CoURT
Price Range: Approximately £30 – £90 per night (Pods/Private Rooms)
Features & Highlights: Located in a former courthouse and jail just off the Royal Mile, this unique hostel offers modern ‘pod’ beds in dorms, providing more privacy than traditional bunks, as well as private rooms. Each pod typically includes a light, charging point, and curtain. The hostel retains historic features, has a cool basement bar, and offers a central location for budget-conscious travelers seeking a blend of history and modern comfort.
Beyond Your Hotel: Immerse Yourself in Edinburgh
Once you’ve settled into your perfect accommodation, the real adventure begins! Edinburgh is a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Must-See Sights
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop an extinct volcano, this historic fortress dominates the skyline. Explore its ramparts, Crown Jewels, and Stone of Destiny.
- The Royal Mile: Wander the historic spine connecting the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Discover hidden closes (alleys), traditional pubs, and quirky shops.
- Arthur’s Seat: Hike up this ancient volcano in Holyrood Park for panoramic views of the city and beyond. It’s a refreshing escape right in the city center.
- Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Tour the State Apartments and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
- Calton Hill: Famous for its collection of monuments (including the unfinished National Monument) and stunning sunset views over the city towards the Firth of Forth.
Unforgettable Activities
- Ghost Tours: Delve into Edinburgh’s spooky past with a guided tour through its underground vaults or haunted graveyards.
- Whisky Tasting: Visit The Scotch Whisky Experience or a traditional pub for a guided tasting of Scotland’s national drink.
- Museum Hopping: Explore the National Museum of Scotland (free entry!), the National Gallery, or Surgeons’ Hall Museums.
- Festivals Galore: If visiting in August, experience the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe Festival. Other festivals occur throughout the year.
- Explore Different Neighbourhoods: Wander through the elegant Georgian streets of the New Town, the bohemian Stockbridge, or the seaside Portobello.
A Taste of Edinburgh
- Try Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties: Sample Scotland’s famous dish (haggis with mashed turnips and potatoes) – vegetarian versions are widely available too!
- Indulge in Afternoon Tea: Enjoy scones, cakes, and sandwiches in elegant settings like The Balmoral’s Palm Court or numerous charming tea rooms.
- Visit a Traditional Pub: Experience the cozy atmosphere (‘craic’) of a historic pub in the Grassmarket or Rose Street.
- Explore Food Markets: Check out the Stockbridge Market (Sundays) or Grassmarket Market (Saturdays) for local produce and street food.
Ready for Your Edinburgh Adventure?
Edinburgh truly offers accommodation for every style and budget. From the sheer indulgence of its grand luxury hotels to the smart comfort of mid-range options and the practical value of budget-friendly stays, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head after days spent exploring this incredible city.
Remember to consider location based on your interests – the historic Old Town, the elegant New Town, the convenient West End, or charming neighbourhoods like Stockbridge each offer a different vibe. Booking in advance, especially during peak season or festival times (like August or Hogmanay), is always recommended to secure the best rates and availability.
“Edinburgh is a city of shifting light, of changing skies, of sudden vistas. A city so beautiful it breaks the heart again and again.” – Alexander McCall Smith
We hope this guide helps you choose the ideal base for your Edinburgh journey. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and welcoming atmosphere, Scotland’s capital is waiting to enchant you.
Now over to you: Which Edinburgh hotel category best suits your travel style, and what Edinburgh experience are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments below!