As the second-largest financial center in the United Kingdom, it is not surprising that Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities in the country. Aside from the Edinburgh castle, this Scottish capital has so much to offer. You can wander around Royal Mile, the street connecting to Edinburgh Castle, filled with shops, museums and restaurants. Taste the delicious whiskeys and cocktails at Johnnie Walker Princes Street while admiring the breathtaking city view from the top. You will also love the illusions at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, where you will also find tunnels and a mirror maze.
Because of the many things to do and places to discover in this wonderful capital city, 48 hours in Edinburgh is simply not enough. You need to stay here for at least a few days, which means you have to find a hotel. For recommendations, check into one of these top hotels in Edinburgh, UK.
Tip from Content Creator
Edinburgh is the best place to experience the true beauty of Scotland and its rich heritage. Although being spontaneous is great, I'd recommend planning your trip ahead as there are many things to do and see! Before you book a hotel, check out my recommendations for a great trip:
- Stroll around Victoria Street
- Make a reservation at The Edinburgh Larder for breakfast
- Admire the Scott Monument
- Indulge in the delicious hot chocolate at Alandas
- Enjoy a tasty brunch at Urban Angel
- Visit Dean Village
- Relish the best pulled pork sandwich at Oink
- Have some coffee at the Milkman
- Dive into the best pizza in Edinburgh at Civerinos
- Enjoy some whiskey and haggis at Arcade (the best haggis in town)
- Have a cocktail experience at the Department of Magic
- Explore the old underground vaults by joining a tour
- Wander the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Spend some time in The Elephant House Cafe, where JK Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Kimpton - Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel (from USD 244)
Kimpton - Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel, offers Georgian townhouses, rooms, and suites. Couples can book a deluxe room that comes with luxury linens and sleek furniture. If you wish to have your own living and dining space, opt for the Townhouse Suite. If you are traveling with more than 10 people, book No. 33 at Charlotte’s Square, where you’ll have a private entrance, dining area and a huge drawing room.
The hotel is conveniently located close to the upscale shops on George Street and within walking distance of some of the major attractions in the city, including Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile. After a day of sightseeing, relax in the swimming pool or spa.
Kimpton - Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel
Address: 38 Charlotte Square
522 meters (0.4 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
2. The Haymarket Hotel (from USD 465)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms near city center and transportation hubs.
Victorian-style building, friendly staff, easy access to tram and train stations.
Conveniently located near Haymarket station and within walking distance of city center.
Delicious and varied breakfast options, with nearby cafes and restaurants.
Located in the historic Haymarket area, The Haymarket Hotel is a 3-star property that promises a luxurious experience with a dash of old-fashioned charm. The rooms are tastefully decorated and furnished with flat-screen television and an ensuite bathroom. If you book a deluxe room, the space is much bigger, and it also comes with slippers, bathrobes, and Nespresso machines.
As a guest, you will enjoy a delicious Scottish breakfast and continental buffet every morning. For your other meals, there are many restaurants nearby, so feel free to indulge in the local cuisine. If you just want to unwind and socialize, you can grab a drink from the bar.
The Haymarket Hotel
Address: 1-5 Coates Gardens
1.39 km (0.9 mi) from Edinburgh Castle
3. Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge (from USD 214)
A 4-star hotel, Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge features a rooftop bar with a terrace — this is the perfect place to lounge if you want to have a drink and enjoy the stunning cityscape of Edinburgh. It also has rooms that are equipped with a desk, flat-screen television, and an ensuite bathroom. Every morning, guests will be able to enjoy a continental or à la carte breakfast.
To make the most of your vacation, you can explore the city’s beloved attractions and landmarks. A few points of interest worth visiting include Fountainbridge Green, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and The Real Mary King’s Close.
Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge
Address: 2 Freer Gait
918 meters (0.6 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
4. Apex Waterloo Place Hotel (from USD 203)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms in a central location, but some additional charges for amenities.
Well-equipped spa and pool facilities, but occasional maintenance issues and limited complimentary water bottles.
Excellent location near the train station, city attractions, and dining options.
Delicious breakfast with a wide variety of options, but occasional service delays and high prices for room service.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel offers a range of leisure and relaxation facilities for people of all ages. Let the kids splash around in the indoor swimming pool while you relax in the sauna or sweat it out in the gym. Spa facilities are also available on site.
Enjoy classic Scottish fare at the in-house Elliot’s restaurant that also boasts chic interiors and a fireplace. All guest rooms are equipped with a TV, free WiFi, and a tea/coffee maker, while suites also come with a private kitchen and a separate living room.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Address: 23-27 Waterloo Place
998 meters (0.7 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
5. YOTEL Edinburgh (from USD 209)
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Edinburgh, then YOTEL Edinburgh is the hotel for you. It boasts a 360-degree screening room called Imaginex, which is used for movie nights and other events. The hotel serves a delicious breakfast daily at the on-site restaurant, Kohi. If you’re a family of four members, book the family cabin, while couples can opt for the premium room.
YOTEL Edinburgh
Address: 68-73 Queen Street
641 meters (0.4 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
6. Hotel Ceilidh-Donia (from USD 176)
Competitive pricing for a cozy, family-run Scottish hotel
Clean, spacious rooms with a homely atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff
Quiet, well-connected neighborhood with easy access to city center and local attractions
Excellent, varied breakfast options with personalized touches and a cozy dining area
Hotel Ceilidh-Donia is a hotel in Edinburgh’s city center, making it easy for you to access the many shops and attractions this city offers. The hotel offers single, twin and triple rooms, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples and small families.
All rooms come with large windows that let in bags of natural light, giving it a light and airy feel. Each unit also has a TV, WiFi, coffee maker, and a private bathroom. A full Scottish breakfast is served in the light-filled conservatory area on site. For a nightcap, you can head to the on-site bar that has a TV, pub grub, and an impressive selection of cocktails.
Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
Address: Marchhall Crescent
2.42 km (1.5 mi) from Edinburgh Castle
7. The Scotsman Hotel (from USD 1716)
Great value for money with modern, well-decorated rooms.
Charming hotel with a lovely bar, complimentary hot chocolate, and feature suite with a view.
Perfectly situated in the Old Town, between the Royal Mile and the New Town.
Delicious and complete breakfast, with friendly staff and attentive service.
The Scotsman Hotel building used to be a national newspaper office back in the day. Now, this beautiful baroque building is providing luxury and comfort to tourists from all over the world. Dine at the in-house Grand Cafe and enjoy scrumptious Scottish fare. You will also love the films shown at The Scotsman Picturehouse, so make sure to secure your seat ahead of time.
The hotel also offers a range of accommodation options. Couples can book the Reporter’s room, while those traveling with family can opt for Publisher Suite or Family Room. For a luxe experience, book the Penthouse, as it comes with a sauna and a private terrace offering impressive views of Edinburgh Castle.
The Scotsman Hotel
Address: 20 North Bridge
751 meters (0.5 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
8. Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa (from USD 326)
Experience Scottish luxury by staying in Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa. It offers fresh Scottish meals at the in-house One Square Brassiere Restaurant. The hotel also has a thermal spa with a rooftop hydropool and sauna, perfect for rejuvenating after a day of sightseeing in the city.
If you are traveling solo or as a couple, you can book the Classic Guest Room. However, you can book the Grand Suite Club and Spa with two bedrooms if you need more beds and space.
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
Address: 1 Festival Square
478 meters (0.3 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
9. ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square (from USD 243)
ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square is located in the New Town area, where you’ll find several shops, restaurants and museums. The in-house Bonnie & Whistle restaurant serves international cuisine along with beers and cocktails.
If you are traveling for business, book The Works room as it comes with a work desk and a balcony with city views. Couples can opt for duet or queen rooms, while those traveling with kids can book the family room. Each unit also comes with free wireless internet access.
ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square
Address: 19 St Andrew Square
737 meters (0.5 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
10. Motel One Edinburgh-Royal (from USD 326)
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal offers basic rooms and rooms with a view. Each unit comes with a TV, free WiFi, and a work desk. Kick-start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast that is served daily. It includes organic treats, including vegan spreads and fairtrade coffee. You can also try out their Gin Highlights during Gin o’clock with your friends and colleagues.
If you wish to venture out and explore, the historic market square, St. Margaret’s Chapel, Royal Mile, and David’s Tower are less than a 10-minute walk away.
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal
Address: 18-21 Market Street
581 meters (0.4 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
11. The Bonham (from USD 251)
Good value for luxurious accommodations in a quiet neighborhood
Beautifully decorated, spacious rooms with cozy lounge areas and a well-equipped bar and restaurant
Centrally located, within easy walking distance to attractions and in a quiet, picturesque neighborhood
Delicious breakfast with good quality options, and a warm, inviting ambiance
The Bonham Hotel is located at the West End of Edinburgh. The in-house restaurant serves eclectic European fare with a Scottish twist. Each room and suite boasts a classic interior that will surely make you feel like royalty in Edinburgh. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a welcome pack that includes fruit teas, hot chocolate, shortbread, and breakfast. If you’re looking to splurge, book the signature suite that boasts carved door frames, stonework and wood paneling.
The Bonham
Address: 35 Drumsheugh Gardens
1.04 km (0.7 mi) from Edinburgh Castle
12. The Balmoral Hotel (from USD 498)
Luxurious with higher than usual 5-star pricing, worth the setting and incredible staff.
Traditional, spacious, and stylish rooms, impeccable room service, valet assistance, and a beautiful building.
Perfectly located in Edinburgh, convenient to famous attractions, and seeped in tradition.
Wonderful dining experiences with lovely food, a 7-course taster meal, and excellent breakfast, though slightly substandard in some cases.
Want to stay in an Edinburgh hotel near a train station? Then you might want to check out The Balmoral Hotel.
You will never miss any of your appointments when you stay here in The Balmoral Hotel. This hotel has been known for having its clock set 3 minutes ahead of time since 1902, ensuring that every guest will never miss the train. It is elegantly designed, complete with domed ceilings, marble pillars, and walls adorned with charcoal frescoes.
The hotel offers rooms and suites with impressive vistas of the Scottish capital. Each accommodation unit also comes with an Italian marble bathroom, an interactive TV, a minibar, and a tea/coffee maker. Don’t miss the dinner at the Michelin-star restaurant on site, named Number One.
The Balmoral Hotel
Address: 1 Princes Street
816 meters (0.6 ft) from Edinburgh Castle
Feel like royalty in Edinburgh
Known for its castles, rich history and vibrant culture, Edinburgh has been a magnet for tourists from all over the world. If you wish to soak up Scottish culture, book one of the above listed hotels in Edinburgh, UK.
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