Best Hotels in Edinburgh: Top Places to Stay for Every Budget
Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most popular travel destinations, known for its historic landmarks, vibrant culture, world-famous festivals, and welcoming hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for sightseeing, a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a family holiday, choosing the right hotel can make your stay even more enjoyable.
From elegant luxury hotels overlooking Edinburgh Castle to affordable city-centre accommodation, the city offers options for every budget and travel style.
This guide highlights some of the best hotels in Edinburgh to help you find the perfect place to stay.
Top 10 Hotels in Edinburgh
| Hotel | Star Rating | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Balmoral | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Luxury & Couples | Princes Street |
| Virgin Hotels Edinburgh | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Modern Luxury | Old Town |
| The Witchery by the Castle | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Romantic Stays | Near Edinburgh Castle |
| Kimpton Charlotte Square | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Business & Leisure | New Town |
| Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Spa & Wellness | City Centre |
| Apex Grassmarket Hotel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families | Grassmarket |
| Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | City Breaks | Royal Mile |
| Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Business Travellers | Old Town |
| Motel One Edinburgh-Royal | ⭐⭐⭐ | Budget City Stay | Royal Mile |
| ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge | ⭐⭐⭐ | Budget Travellers | South Bridge |
Hotel Comparison
| Hotel | Free Wi-Fi | Restaurant | Spa | Swimming Pool | Family Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Balmoral | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Virgin Hotels Edinburgh | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| The Witchery by the Castle | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Kimpton Charlotte Square | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Apex Grassmarket Hotel | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Motel One Edinburgh-Royal | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
Featured Hotels
1. The Balmoral
One of Edinburgh’s most iconic luxury hotels, The Balmoral combines elegant rooms, award-winning dining, a luxury spa, and exceptional service. Located on Princes Street, it is within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Waverley Station.
Best for: Luxury holidays, romantic breaks, and special occasions.
2. Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Located in the heart of Old Town, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh offers stylish interiors, premium dining, and modern comfort close to Edinburgh’s most famous attractions.
Best for: Couples, city breaks, and festival visitors.
3. The Witchery by the Castle
Situated beside Edinburgh Castle, this unique boutique hotel is renowned for its gothic décor, luxurious suites, and unforgettable atmosphere.
Best for: Romantic getaways and luxury experiences.
4. Kimpton Charlotte Square
Located in Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, this hotel features spacious rooms, a luxury spa, fitness facilities, and excellent dining options.
Best for: Business travellers, families, and luxury stays.
5. Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
One of Scotland’s leading spa hotels, offering spacious rooms, wellness facilities, and spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle.
Best for: Spa breaks and premium accommodation.
6. Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Offering beautiful castle views, comfortable family rooms, and an excellent location close to restaurants and nightlife.
Best for: Families and leisure travellers.
7. Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh
Located on the famous Royal Mile, this hotel provides modern rooms, a fitness centre, spa facilities, and easy access to Edinburgh’s top attractions.
8. Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and excellent value, ideal for business travellers and holidaymakers alike.
9. Motel One Edinburgh-Royal
An affordable city-centre hotel with stylish rooms and convenient access to Edinburgh’s historic attractions.
10. ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge
Perfect for budget-conscious travellers seeking clean, comfortable accommodation within walking distance of the Royal Mile and city centre.
Best Areas to Stay in Edinburgh
Old Town
Ideal for visitors who want to explore Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, museums, and historic attractions.
New Town
Perfect for luxury shopping, fine dining, and elegant Georgian architecture.
Grassmarket
A lively area filled with pubs, cafés, restaurants, and fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Leith
Known for its waterfront, seafood restaurants, independent cafés, and boutique hotels.
Haymarket
A convenient location with excellent public transport links and a wide range of affordable hotels.
Nearby Attractions
During your stay, be sure to visit:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Arthur’s Seat
- National Museum of Scotland
- Princes Street Gardens
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- Calton Hill
Tips for Booking a Hotel
- Book early during peak travel seasons and festivals.
- Compare hotel facilities before making a reservation.
- Choose accommodation close to the attractions you plan to visit.
- Read recent guest reviews.
- Check whether breakfast and parking are included.
Promote Your Business
Own a Hotel, Restaurant, or Local Business in Edinburgh?
Thousands of travellers search online every day for trusted accommodation, restaurants, cafés, attractions, and local services in Edinburgh.
Listing your business in our directory helps potential customers discover your services before and during their visit.
Businesses You Can List
- Hotels
- Guest Houses
- Holiday Apartments
- Restaurants
- Cafés
- Bars & Pubs
- Tour Operators
- Taxi Services
- Attractions
- Event Venues
- Retail Shops
- Local Services
Why Join Our Directory?
- Reach more local and international visitors.
- Increase your online visibility.
- Showcase your business with photos and contact details.
- Receive more enquiries and bookings.
- Promote your services all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which area is best to stay in Edinburgh?
Old Town is ideal for sightseeing, New Town is perfect for shopping and dining, while Grassmarket offers lively nightlife and excellent castle views.
Are there budget hotels in Edinburgh?
Yes. Edinburgh offers many affordable hotels, including Motel One Edinburgh-Royal and ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge.
Which hotels are closest to Edinburgh Castle?
The Witchery by the Castle, Apex Grassmarket Hotel, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, and Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh are all located within easy walking distance.
Is Edinburgh suitable for family holidays?
Yes. Many hotels provide family rooms and easy access to parks, museums, and child-friendly attractions.
When is the best time to book a hotel?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during festivals, holidays, and weekends when demand is higher.
Do hotels in Edinburgh offer parking?
Many hotels provide on-site or nearby parking, although availability and charges vary. Always check with the hotel before booking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a luxury escape, a romantic weekend, a family holiday, or a budget-friendly city break, Edinburgh offers accommodation to suit every traveller.
Explore our directory to discover trusted hotels, restaurants, cafés, attractions, transport services, and local businesses that will help make your visit to Edinburgh memorable.