Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is famous for its historic appearance. In fact, Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities you can visit in the United Kingdom, perhaps even in the world. Where else can you wander around on ancient cobbled streets underneath a giant castle?
Some people think of Edinburgh as two city breaks. This is because it is made of two parts; a new town and an old town. In the old town, Edinburgh, you will be surrounded by medieval architecture. In the newer Georgian town, Edinburgh, you will find beautiful gardens and neoclassical architecture. Princess Street is a mile-long shopping experience. If that wasn’t enough, Edinburgh sits neatly at the bottom of a small extinct volcano named Arthurs Seat. Climbing to the top promises astonishing views of the city. If the sun is shining you can take a short trip east of the city centre to Portobello beach and catch some rays. That’s right, a castle, a volcano, and a beach, all in one city.
A visit to Edinburgh promises unforgettable historic sites, festivals, shopping, and food to die for. All you need to do now is choose where to stay! We have compiled this list to save you time on your search for accommodation. Let’s take a look at some of the outstanding accommodation that Edinburgh has to offer…
Hotel Edinburgh
There are over 14 million visitors to Edinburgh every year, and the city is prepared. It’s been reported that Edinburgh has too many hotels. If you would like to stay in an Edinburgh hotel then you are spoiled for choice. Let’s explore some of the best hotels in Scotland, Edinburgh has to offer.
The Balmoral Hotel
If you are looking for luxurious, five-star, Edinburgh accommodation then look no further. This iconic hotel is in the most prestigious address in Edinburgh. Situated on Princes Street where the old town meets the new. The Balmoral hotel is over a century old. It is the most famous hotel in Edinburgh. Originally built in 1903 the hotel is one of the famous railway hotels in the United Kingdom. It comes complete with its own beautiful clock tower. Famous guests include Laurel and Hardy, Oprah Winfrey, and J.K. Rowling.
This Rocco Forte hotel perfectly blends tradition and modern comfort. There are over 167 rooms that have been elegantly designed. Some of the rooms offer breathtaking views of the city centre. On-site you will find a Michelin-starred restaurant and award-winning spa. The hotels provides guests with a 24/7 concierge service to make sure their stay is perfect.
If you are looking for an extravagant stay in the centre of Edinburgh then this is one of the best hotels Scotland/Edinburgh has on offer.
Check Online AvailabilityWaldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
Our next luxury five-star hotel suggestion is The Caledonian. Known by the locals as the ‘The Caley’. Again the hotel dates back over 100 years. It is a beautiful building made from sandstone with a marble lobby that demands attention. Found in the west end of Edinburgh, the hotel is a minute walk from Princes Street. The hotel offers views of the castle, a restaurant, bars, and a spa. There are 241 rooms and suites, all of them are en suite.
Check Online AvailabilityApex Grass Market Hotel
The Apex Grass Market Hotel is one of the favorite Edinburgh hotels for tourists. The reason it is one of the most popular hotels in Edinburgh is that it is an excellent value for the price. The hotel offers stunning views of the castle, a gym, and a swimming pool. The location in Edinburgh city is also fantastic. Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and The Royal Mile are very close by.
Check Online AvailabilityThe Witchery by the Castle
The Witchery by the Castle is one of the quirkiest hotels in Edinburgh. It might be the most interesting accommodation in the city. This accommodation is actually most famous for its restaurant. Above the world-famous restaurant are nine individually decorated rooms. The interior of the restaurant and hotel is like a gothic castle. It is a dramatic, theatrical, and medieval vibe that has to be seen to be believed. You can catch a glimpse online via their website.
If your taste is minimalist then it is unlikely this hotel will please you. It is certainly not to everyone’s taste or budget. However, if you are into theatrical interiors you will remember it for a lifetime. It is best to think of this hotel as more of an experience. It doesn’t come with the usual amenities such as a communal area, or spa facilities. The price is almost £400 for 1 room. However, guests who visit are committed to enjoying this magical affair.
Check Online AvailabilityMotel One Edinburgh Royal
If you want to stay in the heart of Edinburgh, this a great option available at a reasonable price.
This hotel is very centre of the city, it’s five minutes’ walk away from the train station, and only half a mile from the Castle. Edinburgh airport is only nine miles away. Grass market square, which offers a variety of bars and restaurants is situated less than half a mile away.
The rooms are of a Scottish boutique style with stylish, modern furniture. Every room comes with an ensuite bathroom and a television. The hotel has its own bar with a sleek design and relaxed feel throughout.
Check Online AvailabilityThe Dunstane Houses
If you are looking for a little luxury away from Edinburgh city centre then consider The Dunstane houses. The accommodation is set over two Victorian houses. It is one of the older hotels Edinburgh has to offer, originally built in 1852. It still has many of its original features, including open fireplaces. Some of the rooms contain features such as 4-poster beds and freestanding baths. Views over the Edinburgh cityscape are available.
This accommodation is quite far away from the city compared to other hotels in Edinburgh. However, with only a 15-minute walk to Edinburgh city centre it’s still close.
Couples are especially fond of this intimate accommodation when they visit Edinburgh. Onsite you will find a restaurant and bar offering afternoon tea and whisky tastings.
Check Online AvailabilityRadisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh
In the oldest part of Edinburgh city centre you will find one of the most modern Edinburgh hotels. In contrast to the other hotels in Edinburgh discussed, this accommodation is very contemporary. The up to date, sleek style is present outside and throughout the hotel’s interior. Inside you will find a gorgeous restaurant, flagship bar, and a spa. While there’s no swimming pool, you are welcome to use the facilities in one of its local sister hotels.
Being on the royal mile means that there will be tourist attractions moments walk from your front door. Edinburgh Castle is basically your next-door neighbour. Every room comes with a stunning view of the city. The rooms have also been designed to fill with natural light for guests to enjoy.
Check Online AvailabilityEden Locke Boutique Hotel
Eden Locke is one of the most Instagrammed hotels in Edinburgh. This is thanks to its impeccably stylish interior design. It’s not like traditional hotels. Instead, it offers 72 stylish apartments that you can turn into a home from home. Each apartment has a pastel colour palette and soothing furnishings. You would be welcome to visit for a weekend or a month at very reasonable prices for your stay. This place combines serviced apartment living, with the facilities of a hotel. It’s more than just a place to rest your head at night.
Inside your accommodation, you will find a sofa and kitchen for self-catering. There is plenty of space to have guests in your room. The hotel still offers the usual amenities plus more. A gym, yoga studio cafés, a restaurant and a cocktail bar can be found on site.
Check Online AvailabilityB&B Edinburgh
If you are looking for a more intimate stay then Edinburgh bed and breakfast might be more up your street. Let’s take a lot at some of the best bed and breakfast Edinburgh has on offer.
The St Valery
This Edinburgh Accommodation is top-rated by couples. The Edinburgh B&B is a family-run accommodation based in a Grade B Listed Victorian Town House. Close to Haymarket train station, it’s walking distance of the city centre Princes Street, the Castle and the Royal Mile.
There are 11 rooms available in the accommodation, some with lovely garden views. Every room has en-suite facilities with a power shower, digital TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and a hairdryer to make your stay comfortable. A full Scottish breakfast menu is available.
Check Online AvailabilityGeorgian Guest House
You will find his beautiful bed & breakfast near the beach in Portobello. This quiet location is perfect for those of you who want to escape the city centre at night. In each room, you will find a wardrobe, private bathroom, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. A continual breakfast is included with the price of your stay.
This is a small property with only two rooms so it’s a great place for a quiet break. Guests can also make use of the Garden, drawing room, and dining room.
Check Online Availability94DR
If you are looking to stay in a luxury bed & breakfast during your visit, then look no further than this place. 94DR is a contemporary boutique accommodation close to the city centre. The accommodation is owned by a local couple Paul John. They live onsite with their dog Molli. The pair have mixed hotel quilty with the laid back atmosphere of a b&b. It’s a small accommodation with a big personality
The building is a Victorian townhouse. Close by you will find many of Edinburgh’s main attractions. Attractions include; Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the New Scottish Parliament. If you are after a bit of shopping during your stay, the city centre is also close.
Guests can choose between views of Arthurs seat or the private garden and the Pentland hills. Depending on the room you choose and the time of year you visit there is quite a jump in price from £80 – £200 per night.
At this bed and breakfast, breakfast is an event. They believe breakfast is the best meal of the day and treat it with respect. Food is prepared freshly every morning using the very best, seasonal, local, and organic produce. The best part is, you are welcome to order a breakfast box and enjoy it in bed.
Check Online AvailabilityAbercorn Guesthouse
This accommodation is also in Portobello, close to the beach. This large Victorian home was built in 1870 Inside you will find high ceilings and Victorian fireplaces. The accommodation also comes with its own beautiful large private walled gardens. You can enjoy a drink outside before going for a walk on the beach.
If you are planning for a family stay, this is a great option. They have single, double, triple bedrooms and a large family room which can accommodate up to five persons. The price starts from £60 per person. Inside each room, you will find a tv, tea/coffee, biscuits, radios, and hair dryers. All rooms are en-suite.
The accommodation is run by local couple Angela and Willy McDonald. They are always on hand to make sure guests are happy throughout their stay.
Check Online AvailabilityThe Town House Guest House
This b&b is an elegant, Victorian townhouse accommodation. Based in the heart of Edinburgh city center you will find everything you need on your doorstep. If you are looking for a cozy place to stay, this is ideal with only five rooms available
The breakfast is well thought out with a ‘Taste of Scotland’ menu. It gives a wide choice of traditional Scottish fare which includes kippers and fishcakes, all of which can be accompanied by your choice of eggs prepared to your preference. Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements can be catered for on request.
Millers 64
This sophisticated guest house is one mile from Edinburgh City Centre. Edinburgh has a great bus system so you can get to the center, the old town, and Princes Street within minutes. The style of the interiors is Victorian Edinburgh meets southeast Asia. It sounds a bit weird but it works. Guests who stay here love the design! It is very informal and relaxed.
The b&b is managed by two sisters, Louise and Shona. They are always on hand to make sure you stay as comfortable as possible. With only two rooms it’s a very intimate option for your visit. You can make use of the garden during your stay. The breakfast room is used as a lounge with a library during the day. When it comes to breakfast itself you will have loads of options. There’s a traditional fry up, french toast, omelets, smoked salmon, muffins, pastries, oatcakes, and jams.
The price of a stay varies greatly from £90 – £180. It depends on the season.
Auld Reekie Guest House
This modest little guest house in Edinburgh is 3 km from the city centre. Although small, it’s rated 4 stars. It is a very short distance from Arthurs seat and close to Craigmillar Park Golf Club. Each of the 7 rooms is en suite. This is an excellent guest house well rated by visitors. All of the top Edinburgh tourist attractions are close by and easy to visit from this location. A choice of hot or continental breakfast is included in the price of your stay.
New Town Guest House
This adult-only guest house is situated in Stockbridge. You will find a selection of cafes and bistros on your doorstep. The location is great as it’s also close to Edinburgh’s old town. There’es easy access to the water on the Leith walkway so you can wander down and see the Royal Yacht Britannia. It’s less than two miles from the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle. It is around 9 miles away from Edinburgh Airport The accommodation offers views of the city.
Guests rave about the wide selection of the b&bs continental breakfast and find that there is something to please everyone during their stay.
Check Online AvailabilityEdinburgh Cottages
If you are looking to stay in Edinburgh a little longer than the weekend, perhaps a cottage would be best for a stay. Renting an Edinburgh cottage could give you a home away from home during your stay. If you are in a large group this type of self-catering accommodation often works out best. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular rental cottages Edinburgh has to offer.
Rock Cottage
Rock Cottage is an amazing beachfront accommodation. It’s literally on the shoreline with the sea on your doorstep. This historic building is over 300 years old.
The holiday home has two bedrooms, a kitchen, and one bathroom with a shower. It sleeps four people in total. Complimentary wi fi is included in the price.
The location is excellent, you can enjoy a quiet seaside break only 35 miles from the airport. All of the major Edinburgh attractions are within 10 miles. The center of Edinburgh is easy to reach via public transport or taxi so that you can enjoy the city as well as the sea air.
Check Online AvailabilitySt Margaret’s Cottage
This cozy little Cottage offers four-star, self-catering accommodation for up to four people. This detached cottage is a home from home. It includes an open plan living and dining room, patio, and garden. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The interiors of the accommodation are lovely, neutral, and homely throughout.
The cottage is owned by Fiona and Steve, who live right next door. They are always on hand to help you during your stay. Fiona is available 24/7. You can have as much or little interaction with them as you please. If you prefer to be left in peace that is no trouble at all.
The seaside town of Portobello is a short walk away from the cottage. The easier way to get to the center of Edinburgh and the major tourist attractions is a 10 minutes bus.
Check Online AvailabilityLowood Cottage
If you are looking for a break in the country, look no further. This quaint house is in a peaceful country wooded place. It comes with a large wooded garden and great views of the Pentland hills. This is a traditional cottage that has now been completely renovated and modernized. Split over two levels the accommodation sleeps 6- 8 people.
The cottage offers a perfect base to explore Edinburgh. It’s only 7 miles away from Edinburgh airport. The centre of Edinburgh is only 20 minutes away by bus. The bus stop is on your front doorstep.
Included in the price you will find; Central heating, washing machine, dishwasher, tumble drier, fridge freezer, electric hob and fan oven, tv, Bluetooth speaker, unlimited wi-fi, 2 power showers, bath, outdoor seating area with table and 4 chairs. Parking for 3 cars.
Check Online AvailabilityQuartermile Meadows Apartment
If you would prefer self-catering in the city center this is a great option. This trendy apartment is less than a mile away from the Royal Mile and the centre of the city.
The Quartermile development is named so as it is Quartermile as it is a quarter of a mile to Edinburgh Castle and also a quarter of a mile from corner to corner. It is a prime location. Outside you will find several stylish bars, cafes, and shops, with the meadows at its doorstep. Inside you will find 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. The modern interiors of the luxury accommodation are sure to impress.
Check Online AvailabilityGlenlockhart Cottage, Edinburgh’s secret
This impressive 160-year-old cottage is hidden down a leafy private lane in south Edinburgh. This cottage retains much of its period style and features. It is really beautiful inside and out. It is a warm and welcoming cottage that offers history and elegance.
Inside you will find a sunny living room where you’ll find a TV, Netflix, board games, and a well-stocked library. The kitchen has a range cooker, fridge-freezer, and dishwasher, microwave, coffee machine. It has everything you need, even cookbooks. There are two rooms; a double and a king. This can be changed to two doubles if requested in advance. A travel cot can also be included if requested in advance.
The beautiful garden offers a seating area and is safely enclosed for children. It’s a cottage that really has everything you need. It’s also in a prime location in Morningside. It’s only a short cheap bus ride to the centre of Edinburgh. It’s only a 15/20 minute drive from Edinburgh airport.
Silver Lining – Cottage by the sea
Silver Lining is another beautiful seaside accommodation. Enjoy the Edinburgh seaside on your doorstep at the popular location. Situated in Cramond village, it’s a short walk away from Lauriston castle. The center of Edinburgh is only 5 miles away. The nearest airport is Edinburgh Airport, which is just over 6 miles away
The cottage is traditional with all of the modern amenities you would need including a lovely dine in the kitchen and desk for your use. TV and wifi are available for the days where you just fancy a rest.
Check Online AvailabilityWherever you decide to stay during your trip to Edinburgh, you are guaranteed to have a great time!
Other Accommodation Options in Edinburgh & The Lothians
- Bathgate Accommodation
- Haddington Accommodation
- Linlithgow Accommodation
- Livingston Accommodation
- North Berwick Accommodation
- South Queensferry Accommodation