Best Hotels in Edinburgh (17 Top Places to Stay by Area)

Choosing the best hotels in Edinburgh can feel like a puzzle. Do you want a landmark luxury stay with Castle views, a quirky Old Town hideaway on the Royal Mile, or a boutique townhouse in Stockbridge? I’ve visited Edinburgh twice, staying in both the Old Town and New Town, and each area has its own unique character. The city isn’t huge, but where you base yourself can make a big difference to your trip — whether you want to be in the thick of the sights, close to nightlife, or somewhere quieter with a local feel.

To help narrow it down, I’ve rounded up 17 of the best places to stay in Edinburgh, grouped by area. From five-star icons like The Balmoral and Waldorf Astoria to boutique gems and budget-friendly picks, these hotels cover every style and budget.

Quick Picks: Best Hotels in Edinburgh

If you want the highlights, here are my top picks at a glance. From five-star icons to quirky hideaways and budget-friendly beds, these are some of the best hotels in Edinburgh for every kind of trip.

Old Town

This is where I stayed on my first Edinburgh trip, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a history book — with a soundtrack of bagpipes. The Old Town is all cobbled streets, crooked closes, and landmarks you’ll have on your sightseeing list anyway: the Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Royal Mile. The city isn’t huge, but basing yourself here means you can roll out of bed and be right in the middle of it all. Hotels range from gothic romance to big-name comfort, with a few budget-friendly surprises squeezed in between.

Best for

• First-time visitors
• Major sights on your doorstep
• Short stays and sightseeing-heavy trips

Radisson Blu Edinburgh

I stayed at the Radisson Blu right on the Royal Mile, and it couldn’t be handier for exploring. One morning I wandered straight out into the buzz of bagpipes and street performers, and by evening, I was tucked up in a big comfy bed, away from the crowds. The hotel has a slick, modern feel — more businesslike than boutique — but the rooms are roomy by Edinburgh standards. There’s even a little pool and leisure club, which feels like a treat after stomping up Arthur’s Seat. If you want a reliable, central base without splurging on five-star luxury, this is a solid pick.

✅ Right on the Royal Mile
✅ Spacious rooms and a pool to unwind in
❌ More corporate than characterful

➡️ Stay right on the Royal Mile at Radisson Blu Edinburgh | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

The Witchery by the Castle

If you’re after subtle minimalism, this is absolutely not the place. The Witchery is all about indulgence — think velvet curtains, gilded mirrors, and beds big enough to get lost in. It is right at the gates of Edinburgh Castle, so the setting is as theatrical as the rooms. I popped in for a glass of wine once and felt like I’d stepped onto a movie set — candlelight everywhere, dripping with atmosphere. It’s outrageously romantic, slightly eccentric, and definitely a splurge, but if you’re celebrating something big, you’ll remember a night here forever.

✅ Over-the-top romantic style
✅ Right beside Edinburgh Castle
❌ Very much a splurge stay

➡️ Indulge in gothic romance at The Witchery by the Castle | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square

Ibis Styles keeps things simple, but this St Andrew Square hotel has more personality than you might expect from a budget chain. The décor is colourful and quirky, with little nods to Edinburgh woven through the design, and the vibe is light-hearted rather than bland. The location’s a winner too — you’re right in the city centre, with Princes Street just around the corner and the Old Town a short walk away. Rooms aren’t huge, but they’ve got everything you need for a short stay

✅ Colourful design with a fun, budget-friendly feel
✅ Central location in St Andrew Square
❌ Rooms are on the smaller side

➡️ Keep it colourful at Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Motel One Edinburgh Royal

Budget doesn’t have to mean boring, and Motel One proves it. It’s just off the Royal Mile and minutes from Waverley Station, so you can walk almost everywhere. The style is modern and fuss-free — think clean lines, muted colours, and everything you actually need without the fluff. Rooms aren’t huge, but they’re well designed, and the beds are comfy. It’s one of the best-value stays in the Old Town, especially if you’d rather spend your cash on whisky tastings and day trips than a fancy hotel lobby.

✅ Great location near the Royal Mile and Waverley Station
✅ Modern, budget-friendly rooms
❌ No frills — you get the basics, not luxury extras

➡️ Sleep in style on a budget at Motel One Edinburgh Royal | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

If waking up to Edinburgh Castle towering above you sounds like the dream, Apex Grassmarket is where you’ll want to check in. It’s right in the lively Grassmarket square, surrounded by pubs, restaurants, and plenty of character. Rooms are modern and comfy, some with balconies that give you those postcard-worthy Castle views. There’s also a small pool and gym, which is a nice bonus for a city hotel. It’s not boutique-quirky or five-star fancy, but it hits the sweet spot of location, comfort, and value — perfect if you want to be close to the action without blowing the budget.

✅ Castle views from some rooms and balconies
✅ Handy Grassmarket location with pubs and cafés nearby
❌ Can be noisy at weekends thanks to the lively square

➡️ Wake up to Castle views at Apex Grassmarket Hotel | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

The Scotsman Hotel

The Scotsman is the kind of hotel that gives you that classic Edinburgh vibe. It’s in the old newspaper offices on North Bridge, and you can still sense the history as soon as you step inside. The building has plenty of character — big staircases, high ceilings, and little details that nod to its past. I like the spot too: turn left for the Royal Mile, right for George Street, so you get the best of both Old and New Town without the uphill slog. The rooms are comfy, some with cracking views, and the whole place has that slightly old-world atmosphere that makes a trip here feel special. It’s not a budget pick, but if you want your hotel to feel like part of the story of the city, this one’s a winner.

✅ Historic setting with loads of charm
✅ Easy walk to both Old and New Town
❌ On the expensive side

➡️ Stay in Edinburgh’s historic newspaper HQ at The Scotsman Hotel | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Market Street Hotel

Market Street Hotel is trendier than Edinburgh’s grand old properties. It’s a boutique stay with a modern edge — clean lines, Scandi-inspired rooms, and plenty of clever design touches. The location is hard to beat, right by Waverley Station and only a few minutes’ stroll to the Royal Mile. What really makes it stand out, though, is the rooftop Champagne lounge. It’s the kind of spot where you can sip a glass of fizz while looking out over the city skyline — not a bad way to start (or end) your evening. It’s stylish without being intimidating, which makes it a fun option if you want something a little different in the Old Town.

✅ Boutique design with a modern feel
✅ Rooftop Champagne lounge with views
❌ Less traditional charm than other Old Town hotels

➡️ Sip bubbles with a view at Market Street Hotel | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

New Town & West End

After a couple of days weaving through the Old Town’s narrow closes, the New Town feels like a breath of fresh air. The streets are wide, the Georgian townhouses are picture-perfect, and there’s a buzz from the cocktail bars and shops around George Street. I love wandering here in the evenings — it feels a bit more sophisticated and relaxed compared to the Old Town’s constant hustle. Hotels in this part of Edinburgh tend to be elegant and stylish, from big-name luxury stays to playful boutiques. It’s a great base if you want a central location but a little more breathing space.

Best for

• Stylish city breaks
• Shopping, cocktails, and dining
• Central stays with more breathing space

The Balmoral

The Balmoral is the hotel most people picture when they think of Edinburgh. Its clocktower looms over Waverley Station, so you can’t really miss it — and once you step inside, it’s all polished service, tartan touches, and old-school glamour. The kilted doormen set the tone straight away, and the interiors balance classic style with modern comfort. If you’re feeling indulgent, book a table at Number One, the Michelin-starred restaurant, or treat yourself to afternoon tea in the Palm Court. I’ve always thought of The Balmoral as the spot for a first visit if you want to go all out. It’s not cheap, but if you’re after a “pinch me, I’m in Edinburgh” kind of stay, this is the one.

✅ Iconic clocktower hotel above Waverley Station
✅ Michelin-starred dining and afternoon tea
❌ Luxury price tag to match the setting

➡️ Treat yourself to a stay at The Balmoral Hotel | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Kimpton Charlotte Square

Kimpton Charlotte Square is in a row of Georgian townhouses just off Princes Street Gardens and manages to feel both stylish and relaxed. Rooms are colourful and comfortable, but the highlight is the glass-roofed courtyard bar at the heart of the hotel — a lovely spot for a drink before heading out. The location works well too: George Street’s shops and bars are close by, and you can walk to the Old Town in around ten minutes. It’s not the cheapest option, but if you want a hotel with personality as well as polish, it’s a solid choice.

✅ Characterful Georgian townhouse setting
✅ Central location near Princes Street and George Street
❌ More expensive than some nearby options

➡️ Unwind in boutique style at Kimpton Charlotte Square | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Tigerlily

Tigerlily isn’t the place for a quiet night in — and that’s exactly why people love it. It’s loud, playful, and a little bit glamorous, with rooms decorated in bold colours and plenty of sparkle. Downstairs is where it really comes alive: the cocktail bar is buzzing most nights, and the drinks are as photogenic as the décor. The location on George Street makes it a handy base if your idea of a weekend in Edinburgh involves shopping by day and cocktails by night. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re in the mood for fun, Tigerlily delivers.

✅ Playful boutique vibe with bold design
✅ George Street address — nightlife central
❌ Not the quietest hotel for early nights

➡️ Make a weekend of it at Tigerlily | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

InterContinental Edinburgh The George

The George has been part of Edinburgh life for over two centuries, and it still carries that sense of old-school charm. You’ll find it right on George Street in the New Town — perfect if your idea of a good weekend is cocktails, shopping, and people-watching. The rooms feel classic and comfortable rather than flashy, and the hotel has that solid, dependable atmosphere that makes it easy to relax. It won’t win awards for quirky design, but that’s not really the point — it’s a grand, traditional hotel in a prime spot, and sometimes that’s exactly what you want.

✅ Long-standing Edinburgh favourite with history
✅ George Street location for bars, restaurants, and shops
❌ Not the pick if you want something quirky or modern

➡️ A classic stay at The George | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

The Caledonian

Locals still call it “The Caley,” and it’s one of the city’s grand dames. The hotel is at the west end of Princes Street in what was once a railway station, so the building has a real sense of occasion. It’s big, bold, and very much five-star — think sweeping staircases, chandeliers, and plenty of polish. What makes it special are the views: some rooms look straight out at Edinburgh Castle, which feels pretty magical when it’s lit up at night. You’ve also got two restaurants on-site, including one by the famous Galvin brothers, so delicious food is guaranteed. It’s a “treat” stay, and the sort of place that makes you want to dress up a bit just to walk through the lobby.

✅ Iconic “Caley” with Castle views from some rooms
✅ Two restaurants, including a Galvin outpost
❌ One of the priciest picks in town

➡️ Soak up the glamour at The Caledonian | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Leith

Leith has had a real glam-up over the past few years. Once a busy port, it’s now one of Edinburgh’s coolest neighbourhoods, with a mix of old docks, trendy bars, and some of the city’s best restaurants (including two with Michelin stars). It feels different from the centre — a bit more laid-back, with sea air and a waterfront vibe — but you can still get into the Old Town in about 15 minutes. If you’ve been to Edinburgh before and fancy a change of scene, Leith makes a great base. Hotels here tend to be smaller, quirkier, or more modern, with a couple of standout stays you won’t find anywhere else.

Best for

• Food lovers
• Repeat visits
• A neighbourhood feel with great bars and restaurants

Fingal

Fingal is a hotel on a ship — and not just any ship. It used to service lighthouses around Scotland and is now permanently moored in Leith, kitted out as a boutique hotel. The cabins have been turned into cosy, stylish rooms with little nautical touches, and the bar upstairs is a lovely spot for a drink with the water right outside the window. It’s definitely not your average stay, and that’s the appeal. You’re a short ride from the city centre, but Leith has plenty going on, so you won’t feel far away from the action. If you like the idea of something different that still feels luxurious, Fingal is worth considering.

✅ Unique hotel experience on a ship
✅ Bar and restaurant with waterfront views
❌ Further from the Old Town than other picks

➡️ Spend the night aboard a luxury yacht at Fingal | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Malmaison Edinburgh

Malmaison has plenty of personality and fits Leith’s lively vibe. The building used to be a seaman’s mission, but now it’s a boutique hotel with a popular bar and brasserie downstairs. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a decent meal or a drink without even leaving the hotel. Rooms are comfortable with a modern feel, though the real draw here is the location — right on the waterfront and a short walk to plenty of restaurants and pubs. If you like a bit of energy around you, Malmaison works well.

✅ Bar and brasserie that feel part of the neighbourhood
✅ Waterfront spot close to restaurants and pubs
❌ Not the quietest choice for light sleepers

➡️ Stay by the Shore at Malmaison Edinburgh | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Stockbridge & Nearby

Stockbridge feels like a village tucked into the city. It’s leafy, laid-back, and packed with indie shops, cosy cafés, and one of the best weekend markets in Edinburgh. I love wandering along the Water of Leith here — it’s calmer than the city centre but still close enough that you can walk to Princes Street or the Old Town in about 15 minutes. Hotels in this part of town are smaller and full of character, perfect if you want a stay that feels more local than touristy.

Best for

• Quieter stays
• Boutique hotels and local cafés
• Longer trips or slower-paced visits

The Raeburn

The Raeburn feels more like a favourite local than a hotel, which is exactly why people love it. It’s a small boutique spot right in the heart of Stockbridge, with only a handful of rooms above a popular gastropub. The rooms are smart and comfortable, but it’s the downstairs buzz that gives the place its character — you can roll out of bed and head straight into a cosy pub with great food and a lively atmosphere. Step outside and you’ve got Stockbridge’s cafés, shops, and Sunday market on your doorstep. It’s not the quietest stay, but if you want to feel part of the neighbourhood, The Raeburn nails it.

✅ Boutique hotel with a proper local feel
✅ Right in the heart of Stockbridge
❌ Pub atmosphere can get noisy at times

➡️ Stay local at The Raeburn | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Nira Caledonia

Nira Caledonia has that boutique townhouse charm that feels instantly more personal than a chain. The rooms are stylish and cosy, with big beds you’ll happily sink into and a few extras that make a stay feel special — some even have whirlpool baths. The location is in a quiet corner near Stockbridge, but you can still wander to cafés, shops, and the weekend market in about five minutes. It’s not the cheapest option in this part of town, but if you want something elegant with a laid-back feel, it’s a lovely choice.

✅ Boutique townhouse with plenty of charm
✅ Peaceful spot close to Stockbridge cafés and market
❌ More expensive than some other boutique stays

➡️ Hide away in boutique style at Nira Caledonia | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

House of Gods Hotel

House of Gods is not a place for minimalists. Think dark velvet, chandeliers, mirrors everywhere, and rooms that feel more like a film set than a hotel. It’s small, it’s dramatic, and it’s totally unapologetic about being OTT. The service has a sense of fun too — they even have a “Treat Me Like I’m Famous” package . You’re in the centre of town, so it works as a base, but let’s be honest: most people book it for the sheer drama of the interiors. If you’re after understated, look elsewhere. If you’re up for a stay that’s bold, cheeky, and made for Instagram, this is it.

✅ Maximalist design that’s all about drama
✅ Fun extras like the “Treat Me Like I’m Famous” package
❌ Definitely not for fans of subtle design

➡️ Dive into maximalist glamour at House of Gods | Check Prices / Availability / Book it!

Best Hotels in Edinburgh Map

Use the interactive map below to quickly compare boutique hotels, check live prices, and see exactly where each property sits within the city. You can zoom in, explore different neighbourhoods, and tap any hotel to view photos, reviews, and real-time availability. It’s an easy way to find the best hotel stay for your trip and make sure you’re booking the right location.

FAQs About Hotels in Edinburgh

What area of Edinburgh is best to stay in?
It depends on what kind of trip you want. The Old Town is perfect if it’s your first visit and you want the sights right outside your door. New Town is a little more polished, with Georgian streets, shops, and cocktail bars. Leith has a foodie, waterfront vibe, and Stockbridge feels like a village within the city — quieter, with cafés and a great Sunday market.

Is it better to stay in Old Town or New Town?
Both are great, and they’re only a short walk apart. Old Town gives you history on your doorstep (and plenty of bagpipes), while New Town feels more spacious and stylish. If it’s your first time, Old Town is handy for sightseeing, but New Town works well if you want evenings of shopping and cocktails.

Are there luxury hotels in Edinburgh?
Absolutely. The Balmoral and The Caledonian are the two big names, with castle views, Michelin-starred dining, and all the five-star touches. For something smaller but still elegant, Nira Caledonia or Kimpton Charlotte Square are good boutique-style alternatives.

Can you stay near Edinburgh Castle?
Yes — The Witchery is right at the Castle gates, and Apex Grassmarket has rooms with direct Castle views. You’ll also find plenty of Old Town hotels within a few minutes’ walk.

What are the best budget hotels in Edinburgh?
Motel One Edinburgh Royal and Ibis Styles St Andrew Square are solid budget-friendly options in the city centre. They keep things simple but comfortable, and both locations are great for getting around without spending on taxis.

How many nights should I spend in Edinburgh?
Two to three days is enough to see the highlights — the Castle, Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, and a whisky or two — but if you want to explore beyond the city (like day trips to the Highlands or St Andrews), give yourself four or five days.

Edinburgh really does have a hotel for every kind of trip. From Old Town landmarks with centuries of history to colourful boutiques in the New Town, lively nights in Leith, and cosy townhouse vibes in Stockbridge, the city makes it easy to find a base that fits your style (and budget). Wherever you end up staying, you’ll never be far from bagpipes, cobbled streets, and a good whisky — which is exactly how it should be.

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