Where to stay in Edinburgh?
Where to stay in Edinburgh?
What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh?
What hotel do you recommend?
Affordable accommodation in Edinburgh…
How much do hotels cost in Edinburgh?
Unfortunately, it is difficult to give a specific price, as it depends a lot on the season and hotel occupancy, so I have added a map here where you can add your travel dates and the number of travellers and narrow the selection with your financial budget per night and click the “See accommodations” button. You will see what accommodations are available and where in the area during that period. Yes, this is the capital of Scotland, so the price range is similar to that of European cities. While in the low season, you can find accommodations in the city centre for less than €100 per room (a bed in a hostel is even cheaper), in the high season, you have to expect at least €150 per night in a good-quality hotel or guest apartment.
However, exceptions are possible, and the further in advance you book your accommodation, the better price you can get. It is also good to know which area to look at for accommodations.
When to visit Edinburgh?
During the high season, during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August and in July when Europe is on holiday, finding affordable accommodation in Edinburgh can be a real challenge, especially if you leave it to the last minute. Also, there are many visitors during Christmas and New Year's and when there is a prestigious concert, event, or similar event in the city.
A good time to visit is spring (April-May except for Easter), autumn, September, and October, when there are fewer visitors and finding accommodation in a good location at a lower price is more effortless. The city is beautiful in early spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. Autumn is also lovely when the grass is still green, but the trees are turning colourful. There is plenty to do and experience in Edinburgh at any time of year.
Where to stay in Edinburgh? From Budget to Luxury
Edinburgh Old Town
- excellent location, all major museums and attractions nearby;
- excellent selection of restaurants, bars and pubs;
- lots of leisure activities (more likely to run out of time).
- since it is a prestigious area, this is also reflected in the price range of the accommodation;
- if you love peace, consider that the noise from the streets around the clock may disturb your sleep (it is better if the hotel is not located near a nightclub).
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Edinburgh New Town
Pros:
- also suitable for families, there are several parks in the area, and many accommodations offer family rooms;
- some accommodations are located in a tranquil and peaceful area (not all; if in doubt, ask);
- most of the buildings here are built in the neoclassical style, so when staying here, you may have the opportunity to stay in a dignified historical building;
- the location is excellent; you can walk to the Old Town and the Royal Mile, Leith and Stockbridge;
- there are several good restaurants, cafes and wine bars in the area; excellent public transport connections to the airport, different parts of the city and other Scottish cities (Waverley train station);
- I recommend this area to those who like to shop while travelling.
Cons:
- accommodation prices in this area increase significantly during high season, and it is difficult to find cheap, affordable accommodation at the last minute;
- since only wealthy locals can afford to buy a place to live here these days, many of the restaurants and bars in the area are above average in price.
Our accommodation recommendations in New Town
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Haymarket and West End
Pros:
- the area bordering the city centre, but still very well located - if you wish, you can walk to both the Royal Mile and Princess Street, and there is also an excellent public transport connection;
- you can find good bars and cafes here, as well as several cute boutiques; the area is quieter and more peaceful than the Old Town and the Royal Mile;
- the price range is significantly better compared to city centre hotels; you can find extraordinary accommodation here for a regular price, either in a historic building or a hotel room with a very stylish interior design, paying the same price;
- you can find cheaper accommodation even in high season;
- also well suited for families.
- Depending on the location, it may be necessary to use public transportation occasionally.
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Royal Mile
Pros:
- great location, most of Edinburgh's historical attractions are on your doorstep;
- you can find hotels with character in some historic buildings.
- Royal Mile is very crowded in high season, and the price of accommodation skyrockets;
- quiet area is hard to find;
- not recommended for families with children.
Our accommodation recommendations in Royal Mile
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Dean Village and Stockbridge
Pros:
- Gorgeous, historic and peaceful area;
- excellent location, and there is a lot of greenery in the surroundings, excellent opportunities for walks, and the city centre is also only a short walk away (Dean Village is closer, Stockbridge a little further);
- here, you can find exciting boutique hotels and B&B-type accommodations, where you can stay in a so-called traditional/historic building;
- Stockbridge has many cosy boutique and vintage shops, cafes, bakeries, and bookstores.
Cons:
- as it is a historic and highly regarded area, this is also reflected in the accommodation prices;
- if you leave booking accommodation until the last minute (especially during high season), the choice can be minimal and the prices expensive from time to time;
- you may need to use public transport, especially if you are staying in Stockbridge, as it is a long walk to the city centre and back every day.
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Leith
Choose Leith if you want to stay in a trendy, youthful area and enjoy the delicacies of different national cuisines.
Pros:
- beachfront area, many opportunities for long walks; many options for spending time - restaurants, bars, shops, nightlife;
- accommodation options can be found in every price range, including more affordable ones, and there are also many apartments for rent.
- a popular and youthful area, also popular with locals;
- the area around some hotels can be noisy, and if you walk alone to your hotel in the evening, some nosy city dwellers may try to make friends with you;
- located a little outside the city centre, about 30-40 minutes on foot. Public transport connections are excellent, including to the airport.
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