Best hotels in Edinburgh: Enjoy a relaxing escape with our pick of luxury, boutique, and cheap accommodation options
Unwind and explore with our round-up of the best places to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic, hilly capital, has so much to offer. From Edinburgh Castle to the 16th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse, whisky tasting on Princes Street to climbing extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat, it’s a city steeped in heritage, tradition and culture.
Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot – so, whether you’re travelling as a family or a couple, or traversing Edinburgh’s rich terrain solo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And it’s not hard to see why Edinburgh has been immortalised in books and films for generations. From David Nicholl’s One Day to Muriel Spark’s The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and Danny Boyle’s ever-so-slightly grittier Trainspotting, the capital has long provided inspiration for creatives.
Whether you’re planning a staycation or are travelling from further afield, we’ve rounded up the best Edinburgh hotels to suit all budgets and needs.
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The best hotels in Edinburgh
1. The Balmoral Hotel: Best luxury hotel in Edinburgh
Seeking rest and relaxation of the most indulgent order? Look no further than The Balmoral, one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious hotels, with a prime location on Princes Street. Before heading back to one of the sumptuous private suites, dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant and sip a nightcap at Scotch, a whisky bar with over 500 drams to choose from.
During the day, guests can unwind at the luxury spa. After a stress-busting massage or a regenerative facial, decamp to Rocco Forte Nourish, the on-site cafe and juice bar, for some dressed crab or a green smoothie.
2. The Witchery by the Castle: Best romantic hotel in Edinburgh
Something of an Edinburgh institution, The Witchery boasts nine opulent suites kitted out with ornate lamps, plush pillows and crimson velvet for a lavish night’s sleep.
If you can’t quite stretch to a night in one of The Witchery’s sumptuous, gilded-edge suites, then you’ll certainly want to sample the food in its in-house restaurant. Foodies can pick between two ambient settings: the resplendent and candlelit Witchery dining room or the magical Secret Garden, complete with a private terrace. Expect to feast on traditional fare like Angus beef and Haggis. There’s a three-course table d’hote menu for evening theatre-goers and if you’re after a sweet treat or 20, the afternoon tea is a pleasingly decadent experience.
3. Eden Locke: Best boutique hotel in Edinburgh
If you’re keen to avoid the identikit trimmings of a chain hotel, this self-styled “aparthotel” is a unique alternative to big brand properties. A creative idyll, Eden Locke partners with local businesses to offer tailormade, Edinburgh-native experiences like workshops with local creatives so you can take home handmade souvenirs.
Gentle hues of pistachio and terracotta combine to make Eden Locke a supremely calming space, with rattan chairs and pastel-coloured artwork completing the look in the rooms. Guests are also treated to big windows for lots of natural light, and a fully equipped kitchen in case you fancy cracking open a bottle of wine and dining in. And with superfast Wi-Fi, smart TVs and a generous supply of Pukka herbal teas, you may be tempted to hole up for the duration of your stay.
When you do manage to extricate yourself from your Instagram-worthy abode, Eden Locke is just a casual 15-minute stroll from the centre of town.
4. The Grassmarket Hotel: Best cheap hotel in Edinburgh
The clue’s in the name: this cheap-and-cheerful hotel is located in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket area, a lively spot in the historic Old Town home of indie boutiques, bars and restaurants. The rooms may be on the small side but they’re decorated with giant wall-size maps and feature Apple TV. There are Cosy Rooms on offer for solo travellers and triple and quad configurations for groups. There’s no restaurant on site but drinks and snacks are available in reception and there are loads of dining options on the doorstep.
5. Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian: Best spa hotel in Edinburgh
Home to the award-winning Guerlain Spa and Health Club, The Caledonian has facilities that’ll knock your socks off (and give you a good pedicure while they’re at it). Offering treatments using the finest products the Paris-based skincare brand has to offer, the spa features five Guerlain Cabins, a VIP Dual Suite, a 12.5m pool, a sauna, a steam room and a whirlpool. Planning a big night out on the town? There’s an excellent in-house nail bar and a makeover station for all of your glow-up needs.
Beyond the spa, this imposing hotel offers grand castle views from its Princes Street location and an array of wining and dining options including the Pompadour, a fine dining restaurant that offers tasting menus and signature cocktails.
6. Radisson Blu Hotel: Best family hotel in Edinburgh
The Radisson Blu in Edinburgh not only boasts a central location that’s just a few minutes’ stroll from the city’s main attractions, but its family packages make it an appealing choice for those with tots in tow.
The Family Experience includes a Family Room and access to an exclusive Kid’s Breakfast Corner, which gives adults a chance to enjoy the buffet in relative solitude. There’s also a kids’ menu and activity packs on offer at the restaurant, while the spa is home to a child-friendly heated indoor swimming pool.
Once you’ve devoured a hearty, age-appropriate breakfast, you’re all set for a day of exploring. Little ones flagging during the afternoon? Thanks to the Radisson’s central location you’ll be able to sneak back for a nap and a pitstop.
7. Old Waverley Hotel: Best Edinburgh Hotel with a view
The Old Waverley Hotel is located on Princes Street, Edinburgh’s historic main thoroughfare. This pared-down but sophisticated hotel also boasts some of the best views of the majestic Edinburgh Castle; as far as location goes, you can’t get much better than this. Walk out the front door and you’ll be ambling past the best cafes, restaurants and independent shops that the city has to offer.
But the Old Waverley Hotel has more to recommend it than its stellar location. Providing elegant, comfortable and affordable accommodation, it’s also home to the chic Abbotsford Room, where you can enjoy a cocktail or two before a night on the town – not to mention Cranston’s Restaurant, which serves up a delicious range of traditional Scottish delicacies.
