12 Best Hotels in Edinburgh: Your Ultimate Guide to Luxury Stays

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Have you ever wondered where to find that perfect blend of Scottish charm and luxury when visiting Scotland’s historic capital? Edinburgh, with its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, offers some truly amazing places to stay – but which ones are truly worth your hard-earned money?

Welcome to your guide to the best hotels in Edinburgh, where we’ll explore everything from luxury five-star accommodations to charming boutique stays that will make your Scottish adventure unforgettable.

Why Edinburgh Is Worth the Visit

Before diving into the best hotels in Edinburgh, let’s talk about why this city deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Edinburgh is a city where history comes alive – from the towering Edinburgh Castle to the charming cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile. The city hosts the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe each August and offers amazing shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities year-round.

Luxury Hotels: Experience Edinburgh in Style

1. The Balmoral Hotel

The Balmoral stands tall at the east end of Princes Street with its iconic clock tower. This five-star hotel offers:

Beautiful rooms with views of Edinburgh Castle
A Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One
A relaxing spa with a range of treatments
Perfect location for exploring both Old and New Town

What makes The Balmoral one of the best hotels in Edinburgh is its perfect mix of luxury and location. You’re steps away from Waverley Station and all major attractions.

2. Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian

“The Caley,” as locals call it, is housed in a former Victorian railway hotel and offers:

Spacious rooms with castle views
A wonderful spa with indoor pool
Two restaurants by famous chefs
Afternoon tea in a beautiful setting

3. The Scotsman Hotel

Housed in the former Scotsman newspaper building, this hotel offers:

Unique rooms, each with individual character
Historic features like marble stairways
Great views of the city
Central location between Old and New Towns

Boutique Hotels: Unique Charm in the Heart of Edinburgh

4. The Witchery by the Castle

For something truly special, The Witchery offers:

Just nine suites, each uniquely themed
Gothic styling with velvet, tapestries, and antiques
An amazing restaurant known throughout the city
Location right at the gates of Edinburgh Castle

5. Hotel du Vin Edinburgh

Located in the Old Town, Hotel du Vin features:

47 stylish rooms and suites
A wonderful bistro serving French classics
An extensive wine list
Historic building with modern comforts

6. The Dunstane Houses

This family-run boutique hotel offers:

Victorian townhouse charm
Orkney-inspired decor
Free parking (rare in Edinburgh!)
Friendly, personal service

Mid-Range Options: Comfort Without Breaking the Bank

7. Ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre St Andrew Square

One of the best hotels in Edinburgh for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice location:

Colorful, modern rooms
Free breakfast
Central New Town location
Fun Scottish-themed decor

8. Motel One Edinburgh-Royal

Proving budget-friendly can still be stylish:

Modern, clean rooms
Amazing Old Town location
Reasonable prices even during festival season
Comfortable lounge area with Scottish touches

9. Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre

With several locations around the city, Premier Inn offers:

Consistent quality
Comfortable beds
Good prices
Central locations

Family-Friendly Stays: Room for Everyone

10. Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Perfect for families, this aparthotel offers:

Kitchenettes in every room
Space to spread out
Laundry facilities
Great Royal Mile location

11. Edinburgh Residence

This luxury option caters well to families with:

Large townhouse suites
Separate living areas
Option for in-room dining
Quiet residential location

12. Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre

A reliable choice for families with:

Free breakfast for everyone
Rooms that can accommodate children
Casual, welcoming atmosphere
Good value for money

What Makes the Best Hotels in Edinburgh Stand Out?

When considering what makes the best hotels in Edinburgh, we look at several factors:

Location – Edinburgh is a walkable city, so being central helps you make the most of your stay
Character – The best places capture Edinburgh’s unique charm
Service – Scottish hospitality is world-famous for good reason
Value – Even luxury hotels should provide experiences worth their price
Amenities – From restaurants to spas, great extras enhance your stay

When to Visit Edinburgh and Book Your Hotel

Edinburgh’s popularity means the best hotels in Edinburgh book up quickly, especially during:

August – The Edinburgh Festival and Fringe
December – Christmas markets and Hogmanay celebrations
Summer months – Peak tourist season with the best weather

Book at least 3-6 months ahead for these periods. For better deals, consider visiting in spring or fall when the weather is still pleasant but crowds are smaller.

Tips for Booking the Best Hotels in Edinburgh

Book directly with hotels for the best rates or extras
Join loyalty programs if staying at chain hotels
Check parking options as parking in Edinburgh is limited and expensive
Consider location carefully – Old Town is historic but hilly, New Town is elegant with wider streets
Look beyond the center – Areas like Stockbridge and Bruntsfield offer great local experiences

Finding Your Perfect Edinburgh Stay

Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury or comfortable budget options, the best hotels in Edinburgh offer something for every traveler. The city’s compact size means that even hotels outside the very center can still provide easy access to major attractions.

Remember that part of Edinburgh’s charm is its unique character and history. Staying in a hotel that captures this spirit will make your visit even more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What area is best to stay in Edinburgh? The Old Town offers historic charm and proximity to Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile. The New Town has elegant streets, shopping, and dining. Both are excellent choices for first-time visitors.

How far in advance should I book an Edinburgh hotel? Book 3-6 months ahead for stays during August (festival season) or December (holidays). For other times, 1-2 months should be sufficient.

Are Edinburgh hotels expensive? Edinburgh has options for all budgets, but prices are generally higher during the summer and festival periods. Mid-range hotels typically start around £100-150 per night.

Do I need a car in Edinburgh? No, Edinburgh is very walkable and has excellent public transportation. Many central hotels don’t offer parking, and driving in the city center can be challenging.

Which Edinburgh hotels have the best views? The Balmoral, Waldorf Astoria, and hotels on the Royal Mile often have rooms with castle views. Hotels in the New Town may offer views of the Firth of Forth.

Are Edinburgh hotels family-friendly? Yes, many Edinburgh hotels welcome families. Aparthotels and larger hotel chains typically offer family rooms or connecting options.