Posted: 15-09-2023 | September 15, 2023
Edinburgh is fantastic. Famous for its beauty, museums, castle, historic university and literary past, it is also a moody city, but with a cozy atmosphere. I think Edinburgh is a magical destination, from the pubs with live music to the cafes where you just want to curl up with a book to the cobbled streets that seem to shine brighter on a cloudy day.
It is also quite compact and easily walkable. That’s great for travelers. And considering that everything you might want to see or do is in a small area and easily accessible by bus, there are only a few areas where you can stay. (You can of course stay further away and then take the bus, but I wouldn’t recommend that. It’s not worth the extra time and any taxi/bus costs.)
Here’s a look at the three neighborhoods where you should stay and my favorite places to stay in each:
Where to stay in the old town
This area is the main center of the city. Here, along the Royal Mile, you’ll find many of the main tourist attractions, historic streets to wander, and some cool bars and restaurants. This is the oldest part of the city (hence the name) and this is where most people stay. You’ll be in the center of the action and although prices are a little higher than elsewhere, you’ll probably spend most of your time wandering around the area so that’s super convenient.
Best places to stay in Old Town:
- BUDGET: Castle Rock – This hostel is located near the castle and is simply beautiful. It is a beautiful old house with a beautiful wooden interior, stone stairs and a very historic, royal atmosphere. It’s like being in an ancestral family home. The staff organizes events and dinners. In the dormitories, the mattresses are comfortable and there are plenty of sockets to charge your devices.
- MIDDLE RANGE: Stay Central Hotel – Just three minutes from the Royal Mile, this 3-star hotel is housed in a 17th-century building that has been completely modernized with flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee making facilities and rain showers in every room. The space is light and clean.
- LUXURY: Cheval Old Town Chambers – This stylish five-star hotel offers modern luxury apartments, making it the perfect choice for groups or travelers who simply need more space. The beds are incredibly comfortable, there is a fitness center, and the rooms include a washer and dryer.
Where to stay in the new town
This is the lower part of the city, built on the outside of the castle area. Dating from 1767, it is the more ‘modern’ part of the city, with neatly laid out streets (as opposed to all the winding cobbled streets of the old town). Here you will find beautiful city squares and parks, plenty of shopping and more accommodation options. It’s a cheaper part of town to stay in, but it’s not as typically charming as Old Town.
Best places to stay in New Town:
- BUDGET: Haystack Hostel – Located near both the bus and train stations, this hostel has a fully equipped kitchen and a relaxing common area with plenty of board games. The beds in the dormitories are simple (simple metal bunk beds with thin mattresses), but there are lamps, curtains, sockets and lockers for each bed. It’s a small, quiet hostel with an intimate atmosphere, so you can easily relax and meet people.
- MIDDLE RANGE: Yotel – This four-star hotel is clean and modern, with spacious rooms and super comfortable beds. There is a gym and bar on site and a full English breakfast is served every morning. The rooms are small, but I didn’t want extra space. Although the hotel is at the opposite end of the area, it is only a 15 minute walk from the Royal Mile.
- LUXURY: Gleneagles Townhouse – An ornate and opulent five-star hotel. This hotel features beautiful rooms decorated with antique furniture and historic designs. A delicious breakfast is served every morning, there is a bar and gym on site, and a spa and wellness center with a relaxing sauna. The beds are wonderfully soft and comfortable.
Where to Stay in the Southside/University
I consider this area a separate part of the city, although others may lump it in with the Old Town. It’s quite close to the historic center, but I think it’s far enough away to have its own atmosphere. As it is the location of the university, there are many cheap restaurants and pubs and it is close to the famous Arthur’s Seat viewpoint. I like staying here because there are fewer tourists, so it has a more local feel.
Best places to stay in Southside/University:
- BUDGET: Argyle Backpackers – This relaxed hostel is located in an old mansion. It feels more like you’re staying with a friend than in a hostel, because everything is cozy and homely (or ‘homey’, as the British say). It is located on a quiet residential street, just a 10 to 15 minute walk from the Old Town. There is a kitchen for cooking and a relaxing backyard where you can hang out and meet other travelers. The staff is super nice and really makes you feel at home.
- MIDDLE RANGE: The Salisbury Hotel – This boutique townhouse hotel in a quiet area is just a five-minute drive from the Royal Mile. A simple breakfast buffet is offered every morning and the friendly staff will do everything they can to make you feel welcome. The rooms all have original Georgian features and there is even parking available if you have a car.
- LUXURY: Prestonfield House – This ultra-luxurious five-star hotel is extremely opulent and the décor is truly ornate. The rooms all feature antique furnishings and afternoon tea is served at the on-site restaurant. It’s the perfect choice for a luxurious retreat or romantic getaway.
Edinburgh is small so there aren’t many places to explore. There are hotels in more remote neighborhoods, and prices drop a lot the further away you stay, but you’ll spend more of your trip on the bus (or too much money on Ubers) and away from the best things to see and do to do in the city. If you’re visiting Edinburgh, take a look at these three neighborhoods and choose the one that best suits your plans. You won’t go wrong.
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Book your trip to Edinburgh: logistics tips and tricks
Book your flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines all over the world so you always know there is nothing going on.
Book your accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory and the best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently offer the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. It is comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I never travel without it as I have had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that provide the best service and value are:
Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resources page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the apps I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will also save you money when you travel.
Would you like more information about Edinburgh?
Be sure to visit our robust Edinburgh destination guide for even more planning tips!