Where to Stay in Edinburgh: Our Favorite Places and Neighborhoods

Edinburgh, the hilly capital of Scotland, attracts many visitors for its old buildings and fantastic landmarks. With winding cobblestone streets and no less than four exquisite national art galleries, it’s a place we have enjoyed on several occasions. The Scottish capital is a compact city, allowing you to explore on foot regardless of your accommodation choice. In this guide, we will discuss our favorite areas in the city and the best hotels in those neighborhoods, making it easier for you to find a place to stay that fits your Edinburgh itinerary perfectly.

Where To Stay In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming city with numerous historic attractions. It’s very walkable, allowing you to enjoy its landmarks and attractions on foot. If you’re willing to take the tramway or the bus, booking accommodation in quieter areas could save you money.

While the city center is a popular choice, particularly New Town and Old Town, which feature beautiful old architecture, these areas can be expensive, making them less suitable for budget travelers.

Don’t Have Time To Read The Full Article?

• First-Time Visitor: Central location options are great, with the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh, Market Street Hotel, and CoDE Pod Hostel being top choices.
• Our Overall Favorites: We loved The Witchery by the Castle, The Balmoral Hotel, and The Bonham for their excellent rooms and service.
• Alternate Accommodation: Consider modern stays like Cheval The Edinburgh Grand, MONO Suites Old Town, and Edinburgh Castle Apartments.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Cheval The Edinburgh Grand mainly because I prefer apartments for longer stays. It offered everything we needed, and I particularly enjoyed the view of St. Andrew Square and the comfy beds. If you’re looking for a homely place with an excellent location in the city center, this is a great option.

Edinburgh Old Town: Our Recommendation

Edinburgh Old Town, the historic heart of the city, is the best area for most travelers. By staying in Old Town, you’ll have effortless walking access to the city’s best attractions, shops, restaurants, and museums. However, keep in mind that this popular area can be pricey, particularly for hotel stays.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Edinburgh Old Town

Pros:

• Easy walking access to popular landmarks
• The historic center is picturesque
• Vibrant bars and restaurants
• Numerous activities available

Cons:

• Can be quite busy
• Hotels are generally expensive
• Has tourist traps

Highlights of Staying in Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh Old Town features a wealth of interesting landmarks and attractions:

• Edinburgh Castle—the city’s most iconic landmark, dating back to the 11th century, known for housing the Crown Jewels.
• Walk the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle, exploring shops and restaurants along the way.
• The National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, hosting extensive exhibits on Scottish history.
• Princes Street Gardens offers beautiful landscapes and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
• Cockburn Street, renowned for its historical connection to Harry Potter, brings together charming shops and pubs.

Best Places To Stay In Edinburgh Old Town

The center of Edinburgh offers diverse accommodation options for every budget, alongside historic buildings and stunning rooftop terraces with city skyline views.

The Witchery by the Castle

The Witchery delivers a unique experience with nine lavishly decorated suites. Each suite is thematically inspired, featuring stunning period decor such as guard uniforms and painted ceilings. Breakfast is included in your stay.

Market Street Hotel

Ideal for its perfect location, Market Street Hotel is just steps from historic landmarks and offers modern, well-decorated rooms, along with a rooftop lounge boasting panoramic views. However, it lacks a fitness center and a spa, which might deter some guests.

CoDE Pod Hostel

CoDE Pod Hostel is an excellent budget-friendly choice, offering privacy through pod-style dorms, alongside shared bathroom facilities. It’s one of the better-looking hostels in the city, appealing particularly to solo travelers.

Edinburgh New Town: Best For Shopping And Nightlife

New Town is a fantastic second option for first-time visitors, closely located to Old Town and filled with attractions, shops, bars, and culinary delights. Although accommodation is somewhat more affordable than Old Town, it still boasts several high-end options.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Edinburgh New Town

Pros:

• Within walking distance to Old Town landmarks
• Ideal for shopping and vibrant nightlife
• A plethora of museums and attractions

Cons:

• Prices can match those found in Old Town
• Can be busy and noisy
• Fewer hotels catering to budget travelers

Highlights of Staying in Edinburgh New Town

New Town is filled with interesting landmarks and activities:

• The Scott Monument may be climbed for a fantastic view of the city.
• Stroll down George Street, admired for its grand Victorian architecture.
• Explore Rose Street, a lively pedestrian avenue lined with pubs.
• Princess Street offers a wide range of shops for an excellent shopping experience.

Best Places To Stay In Edinburgh New Town

New Town welcomes visitors with its variety of hotel options that cater to all budgets, although mid-range and luxury travelers may find more options suitable to their preferences.

The Balmoral Hotel

The Balmoral, a historic five-star hotel, features elegant double rooms, restaurants, and a luxurious spa. Its prime location near Waverley Station makes it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to explore.

ibis Styles Edinburgh

This centrally located three-star hotel offers comfortable rooms with charming Scottish decor, a bar, and a restaurant, with breakfast included. While amenities may be limited, it remains an excellent budget-friendly option.

Princes Street Hostel

As a budget-friendly option close to many attractions, this hostel offers affordability and communal spaces for meeting other travelers, with dormitory rates starting as low as $35.

West End: Best For Budget Travelers

West End, with its elegant mansions and independent boutiques, offers affordable accommodation options. This trendy neighborhood provides easy walking access to the city center while being less crowded.

Pros And Cons of Staying in West End

Pros:

• Affordable hotels and dining
• Quieter atmosphere compared to the city center
• Within walking distance to attractions

Cons:

• Fewer landmarks available
• Limited hotel choices

Highlights of Staying in West End

West End features notable attractions worth exploring:

• Dean Village—a picturesque area known for its historical homes and serene surroundings.
• The National Galleries of Scotland provide stunning collections of modern art.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Water of Leith Walkway, offering scenic views of the area.

Best Places To Stay in West End

Finding affordable hotels in West End that match the quality of those in the city center is easy.

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh

This five-star hotel offers proximity to attractions, comfortable rooms, and amenities like an indoor pool, making it a luxurious choice for travelers.

The Bonham

The Bonham is a boutique hotel set in a Victorian townhouse, providing excellent service and comfortable accommodations at a competitive price.

Destiny Scotland Distillers House

For apartment stays, Destiny Scotland offers a variety of affordable options, providing greater flexibility for guests wanting more space.

Where To Stay In Edinburgh FAQs

Which part of Edinburgh is best to stay?

Old Town is the best area for hotel stays, offering rich history and the city’s most interesting landmarks.

Is it better to stay in Old or New Town in Edinburgh?

Old Town is generally more suitable for tourists interested in historic landmarks, while New Town is ideal for shopping and cultural experiences.

What is the most popular area of Edinburgh?

Old Town is the most popular area, known for its historic significance and attractions.

What is the most walkable area of Edinburgh?

Old Town, New Town, and West End are all highly walkable, conveniently connecting visitors with top attractions.

Where Not To Stay In Edinburgh

While Edinburgh is a relatively safe city, areas such as Canonmills, Stockbridge, Marchmont, and Northfield are further away from central attractions and often lack activities for tourists. Staying in these areas may mean longer travel times for public transport.

Overall, Edinburgh is a vibrant city blending rich history with modern innovation, inviting travelers to explore its charms. Interacting with locals is also a treat, as they enjoy sharing tips on their favorite spots!

Regardless of when you visit—whether during summer festivals, spring and autumn foliage, or the festive winter season—you will undoubtedly cherish your time in this beautiful city.