Best places to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Old Town is possibly the most charming neighbourhood in the city, home to the Royal Mile, Grassmarket, Edinburgh Castle and more. There’s a real buzz and you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to attractions, bars and eateries. Flanking the old town, Edinburgh New Town and the area close to Fountainbridge, at the foot of the castle, are equally popular for city breaks.
Southside and Marchmont both offer more budget options for accommodation, being a short walk away from the city centre. However, they also boast their own attractions, like the Holyrood Distillery, the Meadows and easy access to Holyrood Park and famous Arthur’s Seat. Haymarket and the West End are charming, leafy neighbourhoods to be your base for a city break here. You’ll be close to the two national galleries, gorgeous riverside walks and quaint Dean Village with its picturesque bridges.
Where to find cheap hotels in Edinburgh
New Town is a great base for a city centre getaway and, despite being brimming with elegant and upmarket hotels, it’s also a good place to find budget accommodation in Edinburgh. On the thoroughfare of Queen Street, the Edinburgh Central Queen Street Travelodge is perfectly placed for sightseeing. It has the good-quality, modern rooms and facilities you expect from a Travelodge, and you’ll frequently find rates between £50–100/night.
Equally well-placed in New Town, the colourful and modern Yotel is a budget-friendly base with rooms under or around £100/night. Stay slightly further from the bustle, in leafy Marchmont and enjoy the Black Ivy Hotel, a four-star inn with rooms. For less than or around £150 per night, you’ll stay in a classy and colourful Georgian terrace which prides itself on its elegant bar and hearty breakfasts.
Where to stay to be near the popular attractions in Edinburgh
To be close to Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, the cathedral and many key museums and architectural highlights, you’ll want to stay as close to the centre as possible, in the old town. Fountainbridge, New Town and the area close to Edinburgh Waverley station (like Market Street) are all ideal locations.
You’re more likely to find budget options in Southside, Marchant and close to the university, and it’s still a very easy walk into the historical heart of the city. For something a little quieter, and with an almost village atmosphere, opt for Prestonfield, the West End or Haymarket.
Where to stay with your family in Edinburgh
For your first family visit to Edinburgh, be sure to stay close to the centre as possible. All the exciting buildings and attractions, like the castle, the Camera Obscura, Museum of Childhood and several lovely parks are within a ten or fifteen minute walk. The zoo is also a 15-minute bus ride from the historical centre.
A Premier Inn, like the City Centre Royal Mile or the Princess Street accommodation is a perfect choice for a budget-friendly family weekend. It’s easy to find a room with a third bed, or request a cot, and there’s an affordable breakfast option.
Where to stay as a solo traveller
Younger solo travellers and first-time visitors will enjoy a city-centre getaway, staying in the old town or around the university. Staying in a hostel increases your chances of meeting like-minded travellers. In fact, Castle Rock Hostel, at the foot of the castle, is renowned for being a cosy, colourful and friendly meeting place.
Head to Marchmont for a quieter, but still very convenient, location with budget options. The Inn on the Mile is more upmarket than a hostel, but still warm and solo-traveller-approved. It’s a classy pub with chic rooms, an affordable bar and a cosy atmosphere (for under £150/ night).
