Where to stay in Edinburgh Old Town
Old Town – A Historical Heartbeat With A Lively Atmosphere
Edinburgh's Old Town is where the city's history comes alive. With cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and winding alleys, it's easy to get lost in its charm. A stroll through the Old Town offers glimpses of centuries of history, from St Giles' Cathedral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is an excellent spot for visitors wanting to immerse themselves in Edinburgh's rich cultural heritage. The Royal Mile, which runs through the Old Town, is lined with shops, pubs, restaurants, and attractions that capture the lively spirit of this historic area.
Location: The Old Town is ideally located at the heart of Edinburgh, offering convenient access to major attractions and the stunning medieval architecture that makes it famous. It's ideal for those wanting to stay close to all of Edinburgh's famous landmarks, such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum, and more. This area offers a blend of lively tourist sites and local Edinburgh charm, making it a perfect base for exploring.
Price: As a prestigious area, accommodation prices are higher than in other parts of the city. In the low season, you can also find good deals; in the high season, there are only modest accommodation options at affordable prices.
Pros:
Rich History and Atmosphere: The Old Town is renowned for its fascinating history and medieval charm. Wander through the cobbled streets, explore ancient buildings, and visit iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The Old Town is teeming with life, from lively pubs and restaurants to street performers and open-air markets.
Convenient Location: Staying in the Old Town puts you at the doorstep of Edinburgh's best-known attractions, like the Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland.
Authentic Edinburgh Experience: The Old Town is the perfect place for visitors who want to experience the true essence of Edinburgh.
Public Transport Access: The Old Town is well-connected to the rest of the city, with several bus routes running through the area and Waverley Station just a short walk away for those coming from further afield.
Cons:
Touristy Crowds: The Old Town is one of the most popular areas in Edinburgh, meaning it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. While this is part of its charm, it might not be ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Steep Streets: Many of the streets in the Old Town are pretty steep, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. The terrain can also make walking around the area a bit exhausting.
Limited Green Spaces: The Old Town is densely built, and while it's close to some green spaces like Princes Street Gardens, the immediate area can lack open green spaces for those looking to relax outdoors.
Accommodation Recommendations in Edinburgh's Old Town
Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh ($$$) — the Radisson Blu combines modern amenities with classic charm. It is perfect for those looking for a stylish stay while being close to major attractions.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh ($$$) - the hotel offers a vibrant, luxurious stay with an emphasis on comfort, modern design, and innovative services that aim to cater to both leisure and business traveller.
BrewDog DogHouse ($$$) - best hotel for beer lovers! It is a unique and fun hotel experience that blends the world of craft beer with modern accommodation.
Charming Guesthouses for a Homely Feel
The Scotsman ($$$) is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic and luxurious accommodations, located in the heart of the city. Set within a grand former newspaper headquarters, this five-star hotel effortlessly blends historic elegance with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable stay in the Scottish capital. Yes, the hotel has a reputation for being haunted, which adds to its mystique and allure for some visitors.
Self-Catering Apartments for Independence
Museum Apartments ($$) - offers a unique and comfortable stay in the heart of Edinburgh. Museum Apartments are located near the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile, allowing guests to easily access Edinburgh's main cultural landmarks, shopping areas, restaurants, and cafes.
Holyrood Aparthotel ($$) - offering fully equipped apartments with kitchenettes, the Holyrood Aparthotel is ideal for families or those who prefer a home-away-from-home experience.
High Street Hostel ($) – a cosy, budget-friendly option for those looking to experience the Old Town on a tighter budget. An excellent place for backpackers or those who prefer the hostel vibe but still want to be near all the action.
CoDE POD The LoFT ($) - I recommend this hostel. The conditions are decent, and you can choose a private room if you don't want to sleep in a dormitory.
Stay Central ($$) is a more affordable hotel. It is more suitable for undemanding young people who value the city centre's location and proximity to nightclubs and bars. The area can be noisy.