We list the best hotels in Edinburgh as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews, and we only listed places that have at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Edinburgh: Point A
Best boutique hotel in Edinburgh: The Raeburn
“If the blond wood and brushed steel of modern boutique hotels leave you cold, then this is the place for you. A 17th-century mansion set in 8 hectares of parkland, Prestonfield is draped in damask and packed with antiques.”
“This flamboyant and fabulously gothic bolthole is all your historical fantasies rolled into one. If it doesn’t make your pulse race, quite frankly you haven’t got one. James Thomson opened this restaurant with rooms in 1979 in a clutch of 16th-century buildings tucked away beneath the castle and it’s still, more than three decades later, the ultimate romantic retreat.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Edinburgh.
“For sheer class, this grande dame still has the edge. Yes there are other luxury hotels in the Scottish capital but they haven’t got the Olga Polizzi pizzazz. Taste, style and luxury seep out of the walls.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Edinburgh.
“Set within two Victorian town houses that sit across the road from one another, with each offering a selection of beautifully appointed rooms and suites, this hotel is one of Edinburgh’s most luxurious boutique options.”
“This boutique hotel in the city center is just a few minutes’ walk from nearly every tourist site. Each room has a custom-made sleigh bed and a hand-sprung mattress, but the hotel’s best feature might be the ultra-cozy, tartan-carpeted whiskey “snug,” a cozy room, all too tempting on a gray Scottish day.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Edinburgh.
“The building may have once been the residence of Sir Joseph Lister—known as the \”father of antiseptic surgery\”—but there’s nothing clinical about this acclaimed boutique hotel at the west end of Princes Street. Nominated for several style awards, the design is chic without being intimidating.”
“Like the infectiously optimistic owners, Paul and John, 94DR reaches for the stars with its stylish decor and contemporary trappings, while maintaining a comfortable, homey feel. Breakfasts are legendary.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Edinburgh.
“No expense was spared in creating this popular bar/restaurant with boutique rooms in a great neighbourhood. Expect a moody modern look with heritage touches, luxurious bathrooms, delicious cocktails and upmarket extras in the rooms, from GHD straighteners to espresso machines.”
“The Bonham manages a successful fusion of Victorian interiors with bold, modern colors and contemporary design. Cool, crisp bedlinen, luxury bathrooms and friendly but unobtrusive service make for a memorable stay.”
“Flowerpots filled with colourful blooms line the steps of this little haven hidden away north of the New Town. The eight bedrooms (all en suite) blend crisp colours with contemporary furniture, stylish lighting and colourful paintings, which complement the house’s clean-cut Georgian lines.”
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Lonely Planet, CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
If you want to stay in a 3-star hotel in central Edinburgh, you would be looking at an average price of $150 per night. For 4-star hotels, the average price is around $220 per night. For a 5-star hotel in central Edinburgh, the average rate is around $310 per night.
If you’re looking for an affordable hotel, then check out Point A Edinburgh. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. You should also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Edinburgh.
You like some luxury but don’t like famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Edinburgh, you should check out The Raeburn Hotel. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. For more cool hotels, check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh.
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Edinburgh, then go for The Balmoral. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. For more 5-star hotels, check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Edinburgh.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Edinburgh? Check out Castle Rock Hostel. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our shortlist of the best hostels in Edinburgh, it’s based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
The best areas to stay in Edinburgh are: Old Town/Royal Mile, New Town, Stockbridge, Morningside/Brunsfield or Leith. Please read our extensive guide about where to stay in Edinburgh. It offers a great overview about each area, including the museums, attractions and other things, as well as the best place to stay in each area.
Try Sheridan Guest House if you’re looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Edinburgh. It has excellent guest review ratings for its breakfast.
There are a lot of things to do in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Edinburgh:
Underground Vaults Tour
Visit the vaults beneath Oldtown in Edinburgh, dating back to the early 18th century. Your guide will tell you about murders, witches and the people who inhabited this supposedly haunted location. Price: $19. More info.
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour
Head for the Highlands, whether in search of the Loch Ness Monster or just a scenic day trip from Edinburgh. After pickup, relax on the bus and listen to the guide’s entertaining commentary. Price: $64. More info.
Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
Take a magical walking tour of Edinburgh and discover the city where the world of Harry Potter was conceived. Test your knowledge with an audio-visual quiz, find out your Hogwarts House, and visit Tom Riddle’s grave. Price: $17. More info.
More things to do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland is an iconic city with a unique and fascinating history. Located on the southeastern coast of Scotland, this city is both beautiful and diverse, with castles, monuments, parks, and an array of cultural activities. As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh has a charisma that draws in travelers from all over the world.
Edinburgh is a city of great historical significance, from its earliest beginnings as a hill fort in the Iron Age to its more recent status as the capital of Scotland. The city has been an important trading center for centuries, with its location at the end of the Firth of Forth providing a natural harbor. Edinburgh’s history didn’t begin in earnest until King David I of Scotland declared the city his capital in the 11th century. Since then, Edinburgh has been the seat of power in Scotland, and it’s also been the focus of many battles and wars.
In the 13th century, Edinburgh became a center of culture and learning, and the University of Edinburgh was established in 1583. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Edinburgh flourished as a commercial and intellectual hub and was a key player in the Scottish Enlightenment. In the modern era, Edinburgh has become a significant tourist destination for visitors worldwide. Its stunning architecture, from the grand palaces to the cobbled streets, attract visitors from all over.
This city also hosts many festivals and events, such as the Edinburgh Fringe and the Military Tattoo, which highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage. Edinburgh is home to some of the country’s most impressive galleries and museums, showcasing everything from the Scottish Crown Jewels to the National Museum of Scotland. This city also boasts numerous historical sites, like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, as well as many other buildings of architectural and historical importance. In addition, Edinburgh has a long and proud tradition of political activism, with many of the city’s inhabitants advocating for Scottish independence and social change.
From its impressive medieval architecture to its modern developments, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Visitors can explore its history and culture through a variety of museums and galleries, as well as live performances. Edinburgh Castle is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the city, and the views from its walls are simply breathtaking. The castle is a popular tourist attraction with visitors who come to explore its many rooms and rich heritage.
On the Royal Mile, visitors will find a range of attractions, including Holyrood Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and St. Giles Cathedral. Edinburgh is also home to many parks and gardens, with the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh being one of the most popular. Other parks of note include the Meadows, Princes Street Gardens, and Inverleith Park.
As well as its historical attractions, Edinburgh has a lively nightlife scene and plenty of bars and restaurants. This city is home to a great selection of shops, boutiques, and a host of galleries and theaters. For those interested in outdoor activities, Edinburgh has a range of beautiful beaches, as well as hills and mountains to explore. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water sports, with sailing and kayaking being very popular.
Overall, Edinburgh is an incredible city with a rich history and culture. Brimming with attractions and activities to suit all tastes, from those interested in culture to the more adventurous explorer, Edinburgh is truly the shining star of Scotland.
Whatever your interests are, there are plenty of things you can do in Edinburgh! Get to know the city even better by reading our guide about the best areas stay in Edinburgh.
If you like our list of the best hotels in Edinburgh, then you should also check out our selection of the best accommodations in Glasgow or the recommended hotels in Manchester.