Wondering where to stay in Edinburgh? One of the UK’s most beautiful cities, named Europe’s city of culture in 2018 and one of the top ten most haunted cities in the world, Edinburgh tops a lot of best-of lists. Gothic and medieval architecture abound, independent shopping at every turn, winding cobbled streets to wander, and a truly Scottish drinking scene, Edinburgh won’t leave your heart after you’ve visited.
If you love literature, you’re in luck; as the world’s first UNESCO city of literature, there’s no shortage of bookshops, famous literary sites, literary museums to explore. One of the most iconic symbols, of course, the towering Walter Scott statue, the largest monument to a writer in the world, that has people climbing 287 steps to visit.
Harry Potter fans can take the wizarding tour of the city and view the famous sites that inspired J. K Rowling. The tour includes Greyfriars Kirkyard, a graveyard where you’ll spot many of the character names among the headstones, and The Elephant House Cafe where she wrote the earlier books. You can even take the exciting Highlands Harry Potter Express train tour.
One thing can definitely be said: Edinburgh loves its festivals and whatever time of the year you go you’re bound to catch something exciting on.
- Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which brings over half a million visitors,
- The Jazz and Blues Festival, the world’s biggest art festival, where you can enjoy music in seriously cool and quirky venues
- The Royal Military Edinburgh Tattoo, an exciting display of bagpipes and choreography from over 48 countries held in the spectacular Edinburgh Castle.
- The Scottish international Storytelling Festival truly transports you to another world
- Christmas Market and Hogmanay Street Party that finish off the year are both legendary
Table of Contents
- Where to stay in Edinburgh
- Leith
- Stay in Leith for a great foodie scene
- Why stay in Leith
- Things to do in Leith
- Places to Stay in Leith
- Stockbridge
- Stay in Stockbridge for the village charm and Bohemian vibe
- Why stay in Stockbridge
- Things to do in Stockbridge
- Places to Stay in Stockbridge
- Old Town
- Stay in the Old Town for the historical centre
- Why stay in Old Town
- Things to do in the Old Town
- Places to Stay in the Old Town
- Grassmarket Neighborhood
- Stay in the Grassmarket Neighborhood for the Medieval market & nightlife
- Why stay in Grassmarket Neighborhood
- Things to do in Grassmarket Neighborhood
- Places to Stay in Grassmarket Neighborhood
- New Town
- Stay in the New Town for the best shopping experience
- Why stay in New Town
- Things to do in New Town
- Places to Stay in New Town
- Morningside and Bruntsfield
- Stay in the Morningside and Bruntsfield for a Quaint and upmarket area with shops and bistros
- Why stay in Morningside and Bruntsfield
- Things to do in Morningside and Bruntsfield
- Places to Stay in Morningside and Bruntsfield
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Never far from the history that permeates the city, Edinburgh is split into 32 small neighbourhoods, but the main focus is on the central five districts (about 40 km of the entire 320 km of Edinburgh) where everything happens.
There’s great public transport in the city, but it’s also the place where it’s a pleasure to walk since everything is so beautiful. None of these main areas is more than a 30-minute walk from the centre. There’s an incredible amount to do in Edinburgh, and it’s very much a place that suits everyone, from young to old. Choosing the right place to stay can be a challenge, but this guide will point you in the right direction.
Leith
Stay in Leith for a great foodie scene
If you are on a quest to sample some of the best and unique traditional Scottish and British food, Leith is the perfect neighbourhood for you.
Situated alongside the old harbour area, Leith has a lot to offer in terms of food, cafes and bars.
Why stay in Leith
The food and drink hub of Edinburgh, it has an entirely different vibe to the rest of the city that people find difficult to leave. Once a more undesirable area, Leith recently become gentrified and is now one of the most eclectic and exciting areas in the city, set beautifully along the waterfront.
Leith offers everything from fine-dining at Michelin star restaurants like The Kitchin and Martin Wishart to cute cafes, artisan coffee houses, and eateries.
It’s also one of the more budget places to stay in Edinburgh, and in a good location for getting around the city. Split into Leith Walk and Leith Docks. Leith Walk is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and independent bookshops.
There are beautiful apartments, mews dwellings, and yachts lining the harbourside. It’s also the most multicultural part of Edinburgh and a perfect way to catch a real slice of authentic life in the city.
Things to do in Leith
- Sample one of the many local microbreweries
- Browse contemporary art at The Custom House
- Enjoy a seafood meal on the harbourside
- Browse The Scottish Design Exchange for local crafts and gifts
- Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Queen’s cabin
- Shop at Georgian Antiques, the biggest antique store in Scotland
- Eat vegan street food at Leith Market on Saturdays
- Buy books and music at quirky Vinyl Villains, Elvis Shakespeare, and McNaughtan’s Bookshop
Places to Stay in Leith
This boutique hotel sits on the banks of the Forth in Leith and boasts a state-of-the-art gym, free parking and a stylish bar. Edinburgh city centre is just 10 minutes’ drive away. Each chic, spacious room at Malmaison Edinburgh is individually designed with a luxurious bed, CD player and satellite TV. Many rooms also have views of the port, and all have free internet.
This modern hotel is next to the Ocean Terminal shopping centre and the Royal Yacht Britannia. It has free parking, air-conditioned rooms and regular buses to the city centre stop outside. The modern en suite rooms have a hairdryer, wall mounted TVs with Freeview, work desk, power shower, and tea and coffee making facilities. There are also USB charger ports, an iron, and an ironing board in every room.
Click here for prices and book Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Leith Waterfront
These stylish apartments are in Edinburgh, with views of the Firth of Forth and easy access by bus to Edinburgh city centre. There is free parking, Wi-Fi and DVD library. Ocean Apartments form part of Edinburgh’s regenerated harbour area. The Royal Yacht Britannia and the shops, cinemas and restaurants of the Ocean Terminal complex are close by. The bustling city centre with the famous Edinburgh Castle is a 15-minute drive away.
Stockbridge
Stay in Stockbridge for the village charm and Bohemian vibe
Another fantastic area to walk around and explore in Edinburg during your stay is Stockbridge. A bit more hipster than Leith, offering many great spots to have lunch or an afternoon coffee. At night, it’s worth coming back for a pint in one of the pubs.
Why stay in Stockbridge
Just North of the city centre and close to the picturesque Waters of Leith and ancient water mills of Dean Village is a beautiful spot to explore. This residential and lively Bohemian neighbourhood is one of the hippest neighbourhoods in Edinburgh, home to artists, poets, and writers.
If you love independent shopping, cute cafes, delis, cheese shops and local breweries, you’ll be very much at home here. It’s a particularly affluent area in the city but has a village feeling which makes the whole area incredible charming.
Once a separate community entirely, it merged with the main city in the 19th century and now boasts many of the most famous restaurants and pubs in the city. The architecture is attractive and suits the arty vibe that the entire district is famous for. An easy place to get lost and see where you end up.
Things to do in Stockbridge
- Enjoy delicious food at the famous Sunday Famer’s Market
- Stroll along The Water of Leith, one of the city’s most iconic walks
- Catch a literary event or shop at Golden Hare Books
- Visit The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
- Admire the nature at the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh
Places to Stay in Stockbridge
This magnificent Georgian townhouse boasts sumptuous rooms, each with a 42-inch plasma TV, DVD player, and slate bathroom. Among the cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s New Town, it is 900 yards (0.82 km) from Princes Street. Individually designed with unique furnishings, the rooms at Nira Caledonia feature luxury goose feather beds and goose down pillows. Some offer large, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private garden, or a relaxing spa bath.
The Raeburn is set in the charming Stockbridge area of Edinburgh and within 20 minutes’ walk of Princes Street and the New Town. Housed in a beautiful Georgian property, this stylish hotel offers a restaurant and a bar. The Raeburn combines modern design with attractive features including exposed stone walls, sash windows and tartan fabrics. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an iPod docking station, a minibar, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Gloucester Place Georgian Apartment is set in Edinburgh. The accommodation is 1.1 miles (1.77 km) from the Royal Mile and features free WiFi. This apartment comes with 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV, and a kitchen. The Real Mary King’s Close is 1.1 miles (1.77 km) from the apartment.
Click here for prices and book Gloucester Place Georgian Apartment
Old Town
Stay in the Old Town for the historical centre
The Old Town is the heart of Edinburgh with many tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. The famous Royal Mile starts here and stretching all the way to the New Town.
Mostly recommended for first time visitors, the Old Town can take days to be fully explored.
Why stay in Old Town
There are so many reasons to make this your base while in Edinburgh. Close to all the action and the major tourist attractions, you’ll never be short of things to do. In fact, many people find themselves ignoring the rest of the city because they’re not done with Old Town yet. It’s the most haunted part of Edinburgh and the historical and cultural heart of the city.
Stunning gothic architecture, medieval castles, the city dates back to the 12th century and certainly looks the part. If you like taking pictures, then the cobbled streets and well-preserved buildings will have you truly inspired. You can really explore the heritage of the area here and get lost in the city’s long history.
One wonderful thing about the UK is its abundance of free museums, and Edinburgh is no exception. The Old Quarter has the most museums in the city, and no doubt there’s one suited to every type of interest.
The Old Quarter is also home to the city’s best nightlife, partly due to easy access to The Royal Mile, a buzzing street in the heart of the Old Town. Rows of brightly coloured pubs, bars, restaurants interspersed with tartan shops, reminding you of Scottish culture at every turn. Not just for drinking, The Royal Mile hosts the glorious St Giles Cathedral. In front is the Heart of Midlothian, the site of the old tax box – it’s not uncommon for people to spit on the heart on the way past out of tradition.
Things to do in the Old Town
- Visit Edinburgh’s towering castle
- Take a ghost walk of the city
- Try the Mary King’s Close tour and learn about the plague
- Enjoy The Royal Mile’s Museum of Childhood
- Walk to North Bridge or Calton Hill for incredible city views
- Explore the royal residence of Holyrood House, once home to Mary Queen of Scots
- Visit the National Museum of Scotland
- Be inspired by Scotland’s renowned authors at The Writer’s Museum
- Walk The Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle
- Be mind-blown at Camera Obscura, six floors packed with crazy illusions
- Enjoy the Queen’s Gallery at the Royal Collection
- Wander the colourful Victoria Street en route to the Grassmarket Neighbourhood
- Take a trip to St. Giles’ Cathedral and take the rooftop tour for bird’s-eye views of the city
- Tour Pickering’s Gin Distillery, then drink it on tap at The Royal Dick pub
Places to Stay in the Old Town
In Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, this Hotel Du Vin has uniquely styled bedrooms in a former city asylum. At the hotel’s heart is a French Bistro, serving produce from the Lothian region. A Plasma TV, DVD player, Egyptian linen and luxury private bathroom is featured in each elegant room in this impressive building. Many rooms retain signature original features and roll top baths.
On the historic Royal Mile, Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh is a modern hotel which features a spa/fitness centre, stylish bar and luxury bedrooms with free Wi-Fi. Each sleek, contemporary room has a luxurious private bathroom with free toiletries. Rooms also feature a TV with satellite channels and a spacious work area. Melrose Spa and Health Club features an indoor heated swimming pool, a sauna and a fully equipped fitness suite. Spa treatments are also available.
Click here for prices and book Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh
Located on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and throughout the Old Town, these 4-star apartments feature stylish interiors with spacious lounge areas. Edinburgh Castle is less than 10 minutes’ walk away from each apartment location. Each of the relaxing lounge areas in the St Giles Apartments collection is individually furnished and includes a large TV with DVD player and a modern coffee table. Some include city views, hanging artwork, or comfortable leather sofas and rugs.
Grassmarket Neighborhood
Stay in the Grassmarket Neighborhood for the Medieval market & nightlife
The Grassmarket area is home to the main market of Edinburg since 1477. Although the market is still in operation today, the place is slowing giving space for new developments, restaurants, and shops.
If you are after the nightlife scene, you will find pubs and nightclubs in this area with great music and various performances.
Why stay in Grassmarket Neighborhood
Technically part of Old Town and an easy walk between the two, this unique neighbourhood has a long history and is a popular food and drink spot that locals love to gather at.
The Castle itself overlooks the bottom of Grassmarket, and it’s a beautiful photo spot. Once a medieval market and a public execution spot, it’s also become something of an event and nightlife hub area.
You can go wild at clubs like the five floored Espionage, or dance the night away in the caverns of Hive. Enjoy a traditional night at the vibrant pubs like the Last Drop, or channel your inner Gatsby at glitzy bars like the Dragonfly Cocktail Bar for 20s elegance.
Most of the venues in the area host live bands and various performances, so if you love nightlife then sending your day on The Royal Mile and the evening here will offer no end of fun.
Things to do in Grassmarket Neighborhood
- Enjoy the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour and drink like your favourite authors
- Learn about the Whisky Process at the Scotch Whisky Experience
- Visit the White Heart Inn, Edinburgh’s oldest pub, a favourite of poet Robert Burns
- Go vintage clothes shopping (and maybe find a cheap kilt) at Armstrongs
- Get lost in the shelves of Armchair Books and The Old Town Bookshop
Places to Stay in Grassmarket Neighborhood
The Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel is located in the heart of Grassmarket in Edinburgh city centre, just minutes from The Royal Mile. The hotel has an award-winning restaurant and 4-star boutique bedrooms. All bedrooms are luxurious, with large beds, a 42-inch LCD TV, luxury toiletries and free Wi-Fi. Apex City of Edinburgh guests have access to a swimming pool and fitness centre, just a short walk away.
Boasting stylish rooms with plasma-screen TVs and wall-sized magnetic maps, this refurbished hotel is 900 yards (0.82 km) from Edinburgh Waverley Rail Station and 350 yards (0.32 km) from The Royal Mile. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. iPod docking stations feature in each modern, soundproofed room at The Grassmarket, along with an en suite bathroom featuring a rainfall shower.
Kick Ass features a shared lounge and bar in the Old Town of Edinburgh. This property is set a short distance from attractions such as Royal Mile. Free WiFi is available. Guests at the hostel can enjoy a continental breakfast. Staff are always available to help at the reception.
New Town
Stay in the New Town for the best shopping experience
The New Town, also known as the City Centre or downtown, is a relatively new area. You will find the Parliament and the Queen’s Gallery here.
Upscale shopping streets with restaurants and bars will make your visit more relaxing here.
Why stay in New Town
Near Old Town, this is the part of the city that was rebuilt after the great fire of 1824 that wiped out most of the buildings in the area. It’s still very much the heart of the city and is situated under the castle, which is a grand view as you exit the main train station.
The New Town is home to the Scottish Parliament, and with its Georgian planning and elegant buildings, you can see why this area is named the “Athens of the north”.
You’ll find most of the city’s newer shopping here located on Princes Street, and the Princes Street Gardens are one of the main attractions in the area. For luxury shopping, then the Multrees Walk and Jenners’ department store are an experience in themselves.
With easy access to Old Town, The Royal Mile, and the pubs of Rose Street mean you’ll never be short of exciting things to do.
Things to do in New Town
- Take a tour of Edinburgh’s 120 underground caverns and vaults
- Get frightened at the Edinburgh Dungeon
- Laugh the night away at The Stand Comedy Club
- Visit the hidden speakeasy Panda & Sons
- Step back in time at The Georgian House
- Take photos on the olde-worlde Circus Lane
Places to Stay in New Town
Unique and very chic, Le Monde is just 100 yards (ca. 91 m) from Princes Street and Edinburgh Waverley Station. It has luxury themed rooms, 2 restaurants, 3 bars and a lively night club. Impressive rooms are themed after cities around the world, each with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and DVD/CD player. Luxury bathrooms have Temple Spa toiletries and rainfall showers.
Tigerlily is an award-winning boutique hotel with chic rooms, an elegant bar, nightclub, and a restaurant. It is a 10-minute walk from the Scott Monument in Edinburgh’s most popular shopping area and financial district. In Edinburgh’s city centre, the hotel on George Street has beautiful rooms with a flat-screen TV and Bluetooth speaker. Guests can also enjoy White Company toiletries and free WiFi.
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel is situated in Edinburgh, just metres from Princes Street and George Street. The rooms offer a flat-screen Smart TV, 300 thread count bed linen, a complimentary treat box and a fridge with complimentary fresh milk and mineral water. The en suite bathrooms have a selection of complimentary toiletries.
Click here for prices and book Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Morningside and Bruntsfield
Stay in the Morningside and Bruntsfield for a Quaint and upmarket area with shops and bistros
A bit further out of the city to the South, Morningside and Bruntsfield is a nice, quiet neighbourhood with many stores, tea, and coffee houses and boutique stores.
It’s about 30-45 mins walk to the centre or 15 mins ride on the bus.
Why stay in Morningside and Bruntsfield
For an upmarket stay in one of the most quaint and well-to-do neighbourhoods in Scotland, then the areas of Morningside and Bruntsfield could be precisely what you’re looking for.
Just South of the city centre and brimming with tea shops, bistros, and boutique stores, you have everything on your doorstep in this peaceful neighbourhood.
The scenic parks and pretty churches are nicely complemented by the Victorian and Georgian architecture and tree-lined streets of the area.
One of the quietest neighbourhoods in the city, it’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing break or like to be away from the bustle of the city.
Things to do in Morningside and Bruntsfield
- Visit the award-winning The Edinburgh Bookshop
- Stroll through and have a picnic at The Meadows
- Catch a film at Edinburgh’s last family-run cinema at the Streamline Moderne Dominion Cinema
- Visit Morningside Road for local arts and crafts shops
- Purchase local art at The Morningside Gallery
- Drink at The Canny Man named ‘the best pub in the world’ and dating back to 1871
- Visit the city’s “Wild West” street, an old film set hidden in the backstreets
Places to Stay in Morningside and Bruntsfield
Black Ivy is just a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh city centre and features a lively bar which overlooks Bruntsfield Links park. The shopping precinct of Princes Street is only 1.3 miles (ca. 2 km) from the hotel. Free WiFi and an en suite bathroom are featured in each room at Black Ivy. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels is also provided.
The Menzies Guesthouse is just a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street. It offers rooms with TVs and free Wi-Fi, an open buffet vegetarian breakfast and free parking. Rooms at the non-smoking Menzies Guesthouse all include an iron, hairdryer, and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Overlooking Bruntsfield Links Park, this classic yet contemporary hotel offers bright rooms with free Wi-Fi and limited free parking. Edinburgh city centre is a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride away. Each spacious bedroom at the Best Western Plus Bruntsfield is well equipped with a flat-screen TV with international satellite channels, a work desk, a seating area and a private bathroom.
Click here for prices and book Best Western Plus Edinburgh City Centre Bruntsfield Hotel
We are sure you will love the city, once you decided where to stay in Edinburgh. If this is your first visit, make sure to take a long walk through the street of Edinburgh.
You can also spend half a day visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens Of Edinburgh, featuring one of the most well-kept palm houses in the UK.
Leave a Reply