Edinburgh welcomes several million visitors every year, so when you look for accommodation you’ll find all kinds of options, from the cheapest hostels to pure luxury hotels.
The first thing to bear in mind is the time of year you want to visit Edinburgh, as prices vary a lot. At quiet times a night here can be a bargain, while at others finding a room can be really difficult.
During the festivals, in August, room prices skyrocket. If you are travelling then, book as early as possible.
Budget accommodation: hostels
Budget accommodation in Edinburgh means hostels. There are lots of them, and most offer an excellent service, especially when it comes to common areas and activities.
1. Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate
96-112 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JN
If you want to spend little and stay central, this is a good place. Its greatest advantage, apart from the location, is the independence it offers: the building is divided into apartments with two or three rooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen in each.
If you like spending time in a hostel’s common areas, these are not the biggest, but you may not miss them, as you’ll be on the Cowgate, in the heart of the Old Town.
2. Kick Ass Hostel
2 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2JA
Recently renovated, this is a very modern hostel on the Grassmarket, surrounded by pubs and restaurants.
You will have access to large common areas, with a kitchen and pool table upstairs and a café next to reception.
Dorm prices are usually very affordable, and there are private rooms for a few pounds more.
3. High Street Hostel
8-18 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh EH1 1NE
One of the best hostels in Edinburgh, just off the Royal Mile, so you’ll be a step away from everything. It is housed in a handsome old mansion, but don’t be fooled by the exterior: inside it is fully renovated and very comfortable.
The best thing about it is the service and the great atmosphere. You’ll also have a kitchen and common areas to relax in.
Mid-range accommodation
Most of the city’s accommodation falls into this range, from modern hotels to more traditional ones, so you’ll have plenty to choose from.
1. Stay Central Hotel
139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS
In the heart of the Cowgate, this 17th-century building is surrounded by the Three Sisters, one of Edinburgh’s liveliest bars. It is a modern hotel that keeps some features of this traditional setting, such as the entrance through a cobbled courtyard.
The rooms are very comfortable and fully equipped, but the best thing is the location, at the centre of Edinburgh’s nightlife. Perfect if you come to Edinburgh to have fun.
2. Grassmarket Hotel
94-96 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JR
Right on the Grassmarket, in a building with typical Old Town architecture. Inside, it has been completely renovated and is very comfortable, with friendly staff who will make you feel at home.
From reception, you can walk straight into Biddy Mulligans without stepping outside, one of the best pubs in Edinburgh, with live music every night.
3. Heeton Concept Aparthotel Edinburgh Queen Street
74-77 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF
This small, newly renovated aparthotel has modern rooms in a neoclassical building in the heart of the New Town.
The location is perfect if you want to explore central Edinburgh by day and enjoy a quieter atmosphere at night. The service is excellent, and the attentive staff will make sure you feel comfortable at all times.
Luxury accommodation
If you are looking for only the best, any of the following hotels will offer you outstanding service, facilities and locations.
1. The Balmoral Hotel
1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
At number 1 Princes Street, next to Waverley Station, the Balmoral dominates the New Town with its elegant clock tower, and is one of the most luxurious and iconic hotels in Edinburgh.
Not only will you enjoy first-class service and incredible facilities, you’ll be staying in one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings, with fantastic views.
Your stay will be pure luxury, with a Michelin-starred restaurant inside the hotel.
2. Radisson Collection Hotel
1 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD
In a privileged location, where two of the most emblematic streets of the Old Town meet, this boutique hotel offers first-class service and facilities.
Its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the city, and the views are spectacular.
3. The Caledonian Hotel
Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB
Set in a former railway station, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with magnificent views, some of them of Edinburgh Castle.
It has a fine dining restaurant, a spa, a pool and a sauna, as well as event spaces for up to 300 people.