Although I’ve only been to Edinburgh twice, I’ve somehow managed to stay in 5 different hotels while exploring the city in-depth… which makes it easy to recommend the best hotels in Edinburgh! All of these hotels listed in this guide are located in old town or new town Edinburgh and all are either places I’ve personally stayed or hotels that are on my (ever-growing) *hotel bucket list*.
For more on Edinburgh, don’t miss…
The Best Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh
Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Hotel du Vin offers a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring luxurious bedding and stylish decor that reflects the rich history of the city. The hotel’s Bistro is a culinary delight, serving up dishes that highlight local ingredients with a French twist. Whether you’re unwinding in the cozy lounge or exploring the nearby attractions, Hotel du Vin ensures a memorable stay in Scotland’s historic capital.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT HOTEL DU VIN EDINBURGH HERE!
MONO Suites Old Town
Mono Suites Edinburgh is a hidden gem in the city’s historic old town, offering a stylish retreat for those visiting Edinburgh. The suites are thoughtfully designed, combining modern decor with cozy touches that make you feel right at home. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living area, and luxurious bedding, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Located just steps away from the Royal Mile, Mono Suites places you in the heart of Edinburgh.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT MONO SUITES OLD TOWN HERE!
Motel One Edinburgh Royal
Motel One Edinburgh Royal is a chic and affordable option situated right in the heart of Edinburgh’s bustling old town. The hotel’s design effortlessly blends modern aesthetics with touches of traditional Scottish charm, creating a welcoming and stylish atmosphere. Located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile, Motel One Edinburgh-Royal offers easy access to the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re sipping a drink in the lounge bar or stepping out to explore the local sights and nearby pubs, this hotel provides a perfect balance of comfort and convenience.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT MOTEL ONE EDINBURGH ROYAL HERE!
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Virgin Hotels is one of my favorite hotel chains and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is no exception. This hotel is vibrant and luxurious, offering an escape from the busy old town. Each room, or “chamber,” is thoughtfully designed to provide a flexible and stylish space, featuring plush bedding, contemporary decor, and cutting-edge technology. The Commons Club, the hotel’s social epicenter, invites guests to relax with a cocktail or savor a meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Just a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh places you at the center of the city’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re unwinding in the rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city or exploring the nearby attractions, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT VIRGIN HOTELS EDINBURGH HERE!
The Best Hotels in New Town Edinburgh
Angels Share Hotel and Bar
Angels Share Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel that perfectly captures the essence of Scottish culture. Each room is uniquely designed, celebrating the icons of Scotland with bespoke artwork and luxurious furnishings. The hotel’s bar and restaurant are a highlight, offering an extensive selection of Scottish whiskies and delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Just a short stroll from Princes Street, Angels Share Hotel is an ideal base for both leisure travelers. Whether you’re enjoying live music in the bar or exploring the nearby historic attractions, this hotel offers a chic and comfortable retreat.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT ANGELS SHARE HOTEL HERE!
Hotel Indigo – Edinburgh – Princes Street
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh, situated in Edinburgh’s new town, offers a blend of contemporary style and traditional charm. Each room is thoughtfully designed with unique decor that reflects the vibrant local culture, featuring plush bedding and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel’s Turquoise Thistle Restaurant serves up a delightful menu of Scottish cuisine with a modern twist, perfect for indulging in the flavors of the region. Located just a short walk from the city’s top attractions, including the Edinburgh Playhouse and Princes Street, Hotel Indigo provides an ideal base for exploring the best of Edinburgh.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT HOTEL INIDGO – EDINBURGH – PRINCES STREET HERE!
Nira Caledonia
Nira Caledonia is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World nestled in the serene and picturesque new town of Edinburgh, and offers a unique blend of Georgian elegance and modern luxury. This boutique hotel is housed in a beautiful 19th-century townhouse, with each room exquisitely decorated to combine historic charm with contemporary comforts. Guests can enjoy in gourmet dishes at the hotel’s Blackwood’s Bar & Grill, which prides itself on using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Just a short stroll from Princes Street and the Royal Botanic Garden, Nira Caledonia provides a tranquil retreat while keeping you close to the city’s main attractions.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT NIRA CALEDONIA HERE!
Tigerlily
Tigerlily Edinburgh, located in the heart of the city’s fashionable George Street, is a chic and contemporary boutique hotel that offers a vibrant and luxurious stay. Each room is uniquely styled with bold decor, luxurious furnishings, and all the modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable visit. The hotel’s lively bar and restaurant are popular hotspots, known for their cocktails and locally-inspired dishes. Situated just a short walk from Princes Street and the bustling Edinburgh city center, Tigerlily provides easy access to the city’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT TIGERLILY HERE!
FAQ
Q: “Should I stay in old town or new town Edinburgh?”
- A: I don’t think that either part of Edinburgh is a bad place to stay! They both offer two different experiences. On one hand, old town is much older and a bit more touristy. New town feels more local and has beautiful streets with boutique stores and great restaurants. I don’t think you could go wrong with either choice.
Q: “Is Edinburgh Castle in old town or new town?”
- A: Edinburgh Castle is in the old town.
Scotland Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Scotland
TRAVELING THROUGH SCOTLAND
- The easiest way to book train tickets in Scotland is through Omio
- The easiest way to book bus tickets in Scotland is through Bookaway or Omio
- To book a flight to Scotland, I recommend using Skyscanner or a big search engine to compare options
- For car rentals in Scotland, I recommend Discover Cars
- If you want a driver waiting to pick you up at the airport, use Welcome Pickups
- I highly recommend travel insurance when traveling through Scotland – I use and recommend SafetyWing (see why here and here)
- If you need a SIM card, aloSIM for an easy and affordable e-SIM – use code “KYLEE5” for 5% off
ACCOMODATION IN SCOTLAND
- To easiest way to book hotels in Scotland is through a booking platform
TOURS IN SCOTLAND
- For tours and activities in Scotland, I recommend using Get Your Guide or Viator
WHAT TO BRING TO SCOTLAND
- Don’t forget a Scotland guide book to help plan your travels
- You’ll need a travel plug adapter (Scotland uses type G)
- I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste
- My favorite luggage is Calpak
- My favorite travel backpack is Nordace
- I recommend a sleep mask for long flights
Edinburgh is such a fun, lively, and historic city. If you get the chance to visit, I hope that these best hotels in Edinburgh make your stay more comfortable and memorable! If you have any questions about visiting Edinburgh, let me know in a comment below!
If you’re planning to travel beyond Edinburgh, don’t miss…
- Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Car in Scotland
- The Best 2 Day Isle of Skye Itinerary
- The Best Things to Do in Oban in 48 Hours
- 9 Best Places to Visit in Scotland (that aren’t Edinburgh)
For more information on things to see and do in Scotland, make sure to check out my Instagram page/highlight reel by searching “#ppinscotland” or under my highlights for “Scotland”; alternatively, head to my TikTok and search for the saved “Scotland” highlight
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Founded by Kylee, a NICU nurse with nine years of experience, including seven years as a travel nurse; Passports and Preemies was created in 2017 and is now the go-to travel and lifestyle channel for nurses who crave adventure beyond the bedside. Whether you’re a staff nurse looking for your next getaway or a travel nurse navigating life on the road, this space is designed to help you maximize your time off, explore the world, and prevent nurse burnout.
On Passports and Preemies, you’ll find everything from travel nursing insights – how to get started, land the best assignments, and thrive on the road – to expert travel tips, destination guides, and real-talk about balancing nursing with a life well-traveled. Passports and Preemies also includes Beyond the Bedside – group trips for nurses around the world; as well as the podcast, Passports and Preemies Talks.
