The top 5 boutique hotels in Edinburgh

On one of the coolest and most popular streets in possibly the quaintest district in Edinburgh, and just a stone’s throw from the castle and the Royal Mile, the location alone is enough to put The Grassmarket Hotel high on our list of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh. The frontage is a classic grey-stone Edinburgh terrace, with neon signage in the window hinting at what lies behind. Inside, it’s a cool, welcoming and modern space with rooms whose interiors are a charming blend of Scandi-inspired wood and statement wallpapers. Cosy single rooms that are almost akin to a pod hotel (but a touch more luxurious) offer solo travellers a perfect spot to rest their heads, while a comfy quad caters to the whole family. You can enjoy rainfall showers with complimentary designer toiletries, Bluetooth speakers, and tea and coffee (of course). You can even order in-room dining. Alternatively, book a packed lunch and hire a bike from the front desk to explore Scotland’s cultural capital – but only after you’ve planned your route on the magnetic map in your room.

Hotel Du Vin is located in the impressive Bristo Place, home to an assortment of restaurants, bars and eateries and close to the university, Greyfriars Kirkyard and the National Museum of Scotland. The building has an intriguing history; it was formerly a poorhouse, then an asylum, then a science lab, and it’s now home to one of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh. Its grey-stone exterior oozes Scottish charm, and the interior is no different, with exposed brick, velvet-clad furniture, tartan textiles and floor-to-ceiling wooden sash windows. The rooms range from cosy doubles, featuring dark-wood bedframes and powerful drench showers, to deluxe rooms with a freestanding claw-foot bathtub and cosy seating area, right through to the Signature Suite, boasting a balcony, sitting room and roll-top bath. You don’t need to venture far for fabulous fayre – the attached Bistro Du Vin, with its wooden floors, exposed beams and cosy atmosphere, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Indulge in seafood, steak or exquisite vegan creations, paired with something from the wine list – the clue’s in the name, after all.

Although only a stone’s throw from the heart of the bustling city, Edinburgh’s West End has the feel of a charming village frozen in time. Located in the chic crescent of Drumsheugh Gardens, the bay-fronted exterior of 4-star boutique hotel The Bonham only hints at the opulence within. From the striking wallpaper to the velvet curtains, the chandeliers and gold-framed mirrors to the intricately tiled floors, the interior is an elegant artwork. Choose from a stylish townhouse bedroom with all the essentials, a welcome tray and bookable extras such as wine, flowers or even chocolate-dipped strawberries, or spacious junior suites with a luxuriously large bathroom and seating area. The signature suites comprise several gloriously styled rooms with almost enough space to hold a ceilidh. Below, the wood-panelled No.35 Restaurant is a glamorous setting serving upscale dinners that are more than photo-worthy, as well as a range of breakfast options too. There’s also a chic bar and lounge with a light bites menu, and you can book a quintessential afternoon tea. Don’t leave without wandering across the Water of Leith Walkway and through the chocolate box streets of Dean Village.

Historic charm meets modern luxury at Virgin Hotels’ Edinburgh offering, nestled in the city’s trendy and traditional heart, just steps from the Royal Mile, the castle and St Giles’ Cathedral. The façade is grand and almost imposing, but inside the warm and inviting space feels like a cocoon. In the chic bar and common areas, expect plenty of wood panelling, statement lighting and richly coloured textiles, while inside the chambers – as they prefer their rooms to be called – it’s light and airy, with clean lines, Scandi vibes and high-spec mattresses. There’s a fully equipped gym and an elegant bar and restaurant called The Commons Club: with all the exposed brick, low lighting and opulent display cabinets built into the arches, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an exclusive wine cellar. You can even bring your furry friend to this pet-friendly establishment. There’s no size or breed restrictions for your dog, and they’ll not only get some complimentary dog treats on arrival, but their own super-comfy dog bed in your room too.

Just off the thoroughfare of the Royal Mile, you can step aside into the peace of St Giles’ Street, where you’ll find Fraser Suites, one of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh, nestled in a row of quintessential terraces. Situated in a 130-year-old building, the hotel prides itself on combining heritage and history with modernity and serenity. The classic and compact double rooms have a city view, a modern bathroom with a high-powered overhead shower, and a well-equipped kitchenette. Alternatively, the suites offer next-level opulence. These serviced residences boast separate living, dining, kitchen and bedroom areas, a study space, and a bathroom well stocked with L'Occitane goodies, while some even have private balconies. As for the décor, it’s been tastefully renovated with respect for its heritage – think original restored stained glass, brocade curtains, and plenty of dark wood. Guests can partake in a buffet breakfast in the cool surrounds of the AUGUST37 restaurant on the ground floor (also open and separately bookable for dinner). There’s also a well-equipped gym, and furry friends are welcome with prior notice.