Posted: 2/11/2024 | February 11, 2024
Edinburgh is enchanting. The capital of Scotland, it is a historic, atmospheric city with centuries-old buildings, winding cobbled streets and an imposing castle rising above the old town.
While there’s loads to see and do here (including plenty of spooky ghost tours), the city is actually quite compact. Everything you want to see is usually within walking distance. For that reason, all of the hotels below are centrally located, so you never have to travel far to see the sights.
Here is my list of the best hotels in Edinburgh:
1. Stay at the Central Hotel
Just three minutes from the popular Royal Mile, this 3-star hotel is housed in a historic 17th-century building that has been completely modernised. The interior is covered in funky, artsy decor with lots of eye-catching artwork and colorful accents. I like that the rooms are bright, clean and spacious. The beds are super comfortable and the rooms come with a flat-screen TV, desk, tea/coffee making facilities and a rain shower (the showers also have great pressure). There is also a hearty complimentary breakfast with many options including meat, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetarian dishes.
2. Rooms in the old town of Cheval
This stylish five-star hotel offers modern luxury apartments, making it the perfect choice for groups or travelers who simply need more space. It’s located in the Old Town, just off the Royal Mile, so super close to everything. Their Deluxe rooms feature Scandinavian-chic décor with a minimalist flair, including plenty of space and natural light. Each apartment has a full kitchen, in addition to a washing machine and dryer. The rooms also feature a TV, WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities, a desk and super comfortable beds. Breakfast, which can be included in the price, offers a lot of variety, including many local specialties.
3. Yotel
This four-star hotel is clean and modern, with spacious rooms and super comfortable beds. Located in New Town, it is just a 15-minute walk from the Royal Mile. There is a gym and bar on site, and a full English breakfast is served every morning (which may be included in the price). The rooms here are on the small side, but I didn’t want extra space. The beds are soft and the rooms also include a flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Please note that although the bathrooms are bright and well maintained, they do not offer much privacy. They are essentially part of the room and not really separated from the sleeping space.
4. Gleneagles mansion
An ornate and opulent five-star hotel, this luxury hotel features beautiful rooms decorated with antique furniture and historic designs. It is a stately hotel that makes you feel like an aristocrat at the beginning of the 20th century. The restaurant and dining room, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast every morning, feature huge opulent pillars and super high ceilings. There is also a bar and gym on site, and a spa and wellness center with a relaxing sauna. The rooms are equally elegant, with wonderfully soft beds that are comfortable and spacious. The rooms also include a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and free WiFi. The bathrooms, while not large, are beautifully designed and well lit. The hotel is just an 8-minute walk from the Royal Mile.
5. The Salisbury Hotel
This boutique townhouse hotel in a quiet residential area is just a five-minute drive from the Royal Mile. It is located in the suburb of Newington, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a quieter stay away from the main tourist area. It’s a stylish 4-star space and the rooms all have original Georgian features (some even have four-poster beds). The decor is a little dated, but the rooms are spacious and airy. The bathrooms are also large and well maintained. A simple breakfast buffet is offered every morning and the friendly staff will do everything they can to make you feel welcome. There is even parking available if you have a vehicle.
6. Prestonfield House
This extremely luxurious five-star hotel is extremely opulent. I really liked the ornate decor. It’s super unique, both regal and colorful with an aristocratic flair. All rooms feature antique furniture that makes you feel like you are staying in a Renaissance palace. The rooms also have a flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi and tea/coffee making facilities. Soft bathrobes are also included.
The on-site restaurant serves a chic afternoon tea and a delicious breakfast is included every morning. Located just south of the famous Arthur’s Seat, the hotel also has free parking. Personally, I think it’s the perfect choice for a luxurious retreat or romantic getaway.
Brimming with cozy pubs, world-class whiskey and home to a sprawling UNESCO Old Town, Edinburgh is a city perfect for weekend breaks and week-long stays. It’s a city of historic charm and character, and one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. And by choosing one of the hotels above, you can be sure you will have a great stay!
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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!