Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland: 8 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Edinburgh and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

We’ve explored Scotland’s capital top to bottom and created the ultimate guide to the best areas and hotels in Edinburgh. Whether you’re dreaming of historic cobblestone streets, luxury shopping, or castle views, there’s a neighborhood here that fits your vibe.

The great news? Edinburgh is incredibly walkable, so if you pick any of these top areas, you’ll be able to reach most of the city’s highlights on foot. But if you prefer not to walk, buses and trams run regularly and can take you just about anywhere.

So without further ado, let’s find your perfect place to stay in Edinburgh!

Where To Stay In Edinburgh Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Edinburgh 

One of our favorite things about Edinburgh is that it’s very easy to explore. While each neighborhood offers its own unique vibe, from the historic streets of Old Town to the refined Georgian beauty of New Town, you’ll never feel far from the action.

The city is very walkable, especially if you’re staying in one of the central areas, and many top sights are just a short stroll away. But for longer distances (or if your feet just need a break!) Edinburgh’s buses and trams are a cheap and convenient way to get around!

• Grassmarket – This super central area is the closest to Edinburgh Castle and other famous sights, but with a slightly quieter vibe than the Royal Mile. Apex Grassmarket Hotel offers a comfortable, modern stay with stunning castle views.

• Royal Mile – This is the heart of Old Town, and it’s full of historic charm and top attractions. ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile is a well-located and budget-friendly mid-range choice.

• New Town – Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian district is perfect for those seeking an upscale stay in a central location. YOTEL Edinburgh is a sleek spot in the heart of the neighborhood that offers great value for money.

• Calton Hill – This area is a little removed from the main tourist bustle, so it’s ideal for repeat visitors or those who love scenic walks and boutique shopping. We love The Parliament House Hotel because it offers classic Scottish charm in a peaceful setting.

• West End/Haymarket – This lively area blends cobbled streets with independent boutiques, bars, and restaurants, and it’s also one of the most convenient areas for public transport. Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is a comfortable pick close to many cultural hotspots.

• Southside – We love this youthful and energetic neighborhood, which is centered around the University of Edinburgh and full of cool cafes, vintage shops, and live performance venues. Ten Hill Place is a well-priced base that’s close to the action but still nice and quiet at night.

• Stockbridge – Just north of New Town, this peaceful, village-like neighborhood is perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds while staying close to the city. Nira Caledonia is a charming boutique hotel that punches way above its price point.

• East Old Town (Holyrood) – This is the eastern stretch of the Royal Mile, where you’ll find Holyrood Palace, Arthur’s Seat, and plenty of historic landmarks. Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile is a modern base located near all the sights and green spaces.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh 

Grassmarket

If you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or want to be right in the heart of the action, Grassmarket is one of the best areas to stay! Tucked into the Old Town just below Edinburgh Castle, this historic square offers charm, convenience, and even the chance of a castle view from your hotel window.

It’s a lively and walkable neighborhood, so it’s one of our favorite areas for sightseeing, dining, and soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere. 

Grassmarket is just steps away from Victoria Street. Not only is this one of Edinburgh’s most photographed spots, but it’s also said to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter! It gets super busy during the day, but staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy it in peace before the crowds roll in. 

Another local gem is The Vennel, a hidden stairway with unbeatable views of the castle. You’ve also got Meadows Park on your doorstep, which is perfect for those who love to start their day with a scenic jog or stroll. We also just love staying in this area because it has so many great pubs and cafés! It’s definitely our top pick. 

Pros

• Central location with walking access to top attractions
• Lively atmosphere

Cons

• Gets busy during peak tourist hours, especially in summer
• Can be noisy at night 

Wilde Aparthotels Edinburgh Grassmarket – $$$

Wilde Aparthotels Edinburgh Grassmarket is a sleek, design-forward stay right at the foot of Edinburgh Castle. I mean, does it get any better than that?

If you stay here, you’ll be just a short walk from the Royal Mile, Camera Obscura, and the National Museum of Scotland. The interiors are glossy and sophisticated, but warm and welcoming at the same time. With bespoke furniture, super soft mattresses, and rainfall showers, I’m sure that your stay will be extremely comfortable! 

This aparthotel also has a gym, restaurant, and a self-service pantry. Wilde Aparthotels really nails that sweet spot between boutique hotel and practical apartment living!

Studios here cost between £300 and £400 per night. Meanwhile, one-bed apartments start at £400 per night.

See all options and book your stay here!

Apex Grassmarket Hotel – $$

Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a stylish and comfortable base just steps away from the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. With beautiful rooms, castle views, and a lovely indoor swimming pool, we think that this place offers incredible value for money. The sleek marble bathrooms and warm, inviting rooms definitely feel like they should belong to a more expensive hotel.

In fact, this hotel is our top pick for places to stay in Edinburgh. It’s welcoming, comfortable, and within walking distance to the city’s must-see sights. What’s not to love? Double and twin rooms here cost between £200 and £350 per night.

Check availability and reserve your stay over at Booking.com!

Kick Ass Greyfriars – $

Kick Ass Greyfriars is a lively and budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Edinburgh. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a social atmosphere and a fun, modern vibe. There’s even a sun terrace, a bar, and a games room where you can hang out and connect with fellow travelers.

The dorms are simple and functional, but with so many great communal areas on site, you’ll only be sleeping in the rooms! Dormitory beds here start at £50 per night, but the cheapest dorms fill up months ahead of time, so make sure to book in advance to secure the best price.

Snag your budget-friendly Edinburgh stay here!

Related Read: If you are looking for some fun activities in Edinburgh, check out our 10 favorite things to do here!

Royal Mile

If you want to be right in the heart of Edinburgh’s action, the Royal Mile is the place to stay! This historic street stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and has been the ceremonial route for royalty for centuries. It’s one of the most iconic and culturally rich areas of the city, lined with cobbled streets and towering tenements. 

A visit to Edinburgh always involves exploring the Royal Mile because it’s packed with must-see landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral, John Knox House, and the Scottish Parliament Building. But that’s not the only reason we love it. There are also tons of traditional pubs and whisky shops to explore, and we love wandering along and checking out all of the different street performers, too. 

This area is ideal for travelers who want to step out of their front door and be within minutes of Edinburgh’s top sights. However, it does get very busy, especially during August’s festival season. Hotels here tend to be more expensive and space is limited, but the atmosphere is unforgettable. It’s a great choice for first-timers!

Pros

• It doesn’t get more central than this!
• Lively atmosphere 
• Top attractions and beautiful architecture

Cons

• Very touristy and crowded, especially in August 
• Hotels can be pricer, and rooms are often on the smaller side

Cheval Old Town Chambers – $$$

Cheval Old Town Chambers is a very stylish hotel smack dab in the middle of the Royal Mile. It really doesn’t get more central than this! 

These luxury serviced apartments are absolutely ideal for travelers who want a central base with all of the comforts of home. They feature open-plan kitchen, dining, and living spaces and sleek, modern bathrooms. The larger apartments come with even more perks, including balconies and cinema TV systems! 

With top restaurants, shops, and sights just outside, you can explore Edinburgh’s Old Town on foot, then unwind in upscale comfort at The Old Town Chambers—perfect for a romantic escape, family visit, or extended stay. Deluxe apartments usually cost between £450 and £750 per night.

Check out all of the options and book your stay here!

ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile – $$

ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile – Hunter Square offers a comfortable and affordable stay in the heart of the city’s historic Old Town. It’s just steps from the iconic Royal Mile and a short walk to Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, so we think that its central location makes it the perfect stay for first-time visitors!

The hotel features bright, modern rooms with flat-screen TVs, spacious work desks, and sleek private bathrooms. We also think that the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet is a great value for money at just £13.50! Meanwhile, with Edinburgh Waverley Station just a 4-minute walk away, getting around is easy.

Prices here normally cost between £250 and £300 per night, although they’re more expensive during August, aka festival season.

Check prices and availability here!

CoDE Pod – The CoURT – $ 

CoDE Pod – The CoURT is a boutique-style hostel just steps from the Royal Mile and top attractions like The Real Mary King’s Close, Edinburgh Castle, and the National Museum of Scotland. It’s set in a former courthouse, and it combines contemporary design with historical character. 

There are private rooms available with either shared or private bathrooms. This property is also perfect for big groups because you even have the option to book out an entire 8-bed dormitory! Or if you go for a shared dorm, you’ll rest your head in a capsule-style sleeping pod that provides privacy, personal lighting, and charging points. Basically, you get your own little mini retreat within a shared space!

Shared dorm beds here start at £45 per night, or double rooms with shared bathrooms average around £185 per night.

Check out all of the options and book your stay here!

New Town 

New Town offers a polished contrast to Edinburgh’s Old Town, with elegant Georgian architecture, wide boulevards, and a more orderly, grid-like layout. Hotels here tend to offer larger rooms, too, and there are lots of luxurious options around here.

While many of the city’s top historical sights are located in Old Town, New Town is perfect for dining, shopping, and relaxing after a day of sightseeing. So if you’ve been to Edinburgh before and ticked off the main tourist sights, New Town might just suit you better.

However, New Town is home to Princes Street, which offers fantastic shops and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle across the valley. The West End and Dean Village offer a quieter, more local feel, but if you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere, the eastern part of the district has tons of cafes, cocktail bars, and upscale restaurants in this district. 

We always really enjoy staying in New Town because it allows us to be within walking distance of the Old Town, but it has more spacious accommodations. We also enjoy the refined, residential vibe of New Town. It lets us imagine what it might be like to live in Edinburgh as locals!

Pros

• Larger hotel rooms and more luxurious accommodation options
• Excellent shops, restaurants, and cafes
• Refined area with scenic Georgian architecture

Cons

• Slightly further from historic sights in Old Town (up to 20 minutes on foot)
• Can be busy and noisy around Princes Street, especially during peak hours

The Rutland Hotel & Apartments – $$$ 

The Rutland Hotel & Apartments is a chic boutique stay located at the West End of Princes Street. As well as luxurious digs, it offers sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle and easy access to both the city’s shopping and financial districts.

Major landmarks like the Scott Monument and EICC are within a 10–15 minute stroll from the property, and you can walk through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens to reach Edinburgh Castle. What we love about this hotel (as well as its bespoke décor and plush furnishings) is all of the thoughtful touches that make staying here feel so personal. You even get homemade shortbread in your room!

Plus, the on-site late lounge is one of the most glamorous spots in the city for a nightcap. Double rooms typically cost between £225 and £450 per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

YOTEL Edinburgh – $$

YOTEL Edinburgh offers a modern and comfortable stay in Edinburgh’s New Town. It’s just a 12-minute walk from the Royal Mile and 7 minutes from Edinburgh Castle on foot, so staying here means you get to enjoy a peaceful stay while still being close to all of the city’s top attractions. It’s the best of both worlds! 

There’s a fitness center and a family-friendly restaurant on site, as well as a coffee shop and free bicycle parking. The rooms themselves are bright and spacious, and the big beds promise a great night’s sleep. Queen rooms here generally cost between £200 and £300 per night.

Reserve your stay on Booking.com!

CoDE POD – The LoFT – $

CoDE POD – The LoFT is a trendy hostel in the heart of the New Town. It’s set within a red brick period building that’s full of character, and it’s just a short walk from the shops and restaurants on Princes Street. Meanwhile, Waverly Station and Edinburgh Castle are just 10–15 minutes away on foot.

We love this place because it offers a more modern and comfortable version of the traditional hostel experience. Instead of the usual dorms, there are smartly designed pod-style bunks for extra privacy. However, you can always rent out the penthouse apartment if you’d like a bit more space and luxury. Beds here start at around £70 per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Related Read: Not sure how to spend your time in Edinburgh? Follow our detailed 3-day itinerary so you don’t miss out on all the highlights and hidden gems!

Calton Hill

If you’ve already explored Edinburgh’s main tourist hubs and are craving something a little different, Calton Hill is an excellent choice. This area is slightly removed from the hustle of the Royal Mile, yet still within easy walking distance to Old Town and New Town. It’s ideal for returning visitors or those seeking a quieter base for their Edinburgh adventures.

Accommodation here tends to be more affordable than comparable hotels on the Royal Mile, and you get a bit more space, too. There are also plenty of designer boutiques peppered around, such as Louis Vuitton and Strathberry, and a great mix of international restaurants. 

If you’re an early riser, Calton Hill also offers the best sunrises in Edinburgh! Of course, that means getting up VERY early during the Scottish summertime, but it’s totally worth it to see the first light spill over the city’s skyline.

But even if early mornings aren’t your thing, the area still delivers throughout the day. We especially love taking photos at the National Monument, which is also known as “Edinburgh’s Disgrace” due to its unfinished state! It may be slightly further out, but Calton Hill is definitely an area worth staying in.

Pros

• Panoramic views of Edinburgh
• Quieter and more relaxed than the city center
• Upscale shopping and dining 

Cons

• Slightly farther from the historic Old Town 
• Fewer traditional pubs and restaurants

Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh – $$$

Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh sits at the base of Calton Hill, so it’s perfect for travellers who want to be close to the city centre without being right in the thick of it. Just a 5-minute stroll from Princes Street in New Town and steps from the Edinburgh Playhouse, it’s an ideal base for shopping and sightseeing. Meanwhile, the Royal Mile is just a 15-minute walk away.

The rooms here are super comfortable, and there’s a fantastic on-site restaurant that serves up local and international cuisine, as well as a trendy bar. The hotel also offers easy tram access and a 24-hour gym, so you really do have everything you could possibly need! Queen rooms here usually cost between £250 and £350 per night.

Check out all room categories and book your stay here!

The Parliament House Hotel – $$

The Parliament House Hotel is a 3-star retreat at the foot of Calton Hill. It’s housed in a beautifully restored historic building, and it’s close to key attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament.

The rooms are stylish and well-equipped, but best of all, guests can enjoy a hearty and traditional Scottish breakfast each morning at the on-site bistro—yum!

Edinburgh Waverley Station is a 4-minute walk away, and Edinburgh’s main bus station is 10 minutes away on foot. Therefore, this hotel is a great base if you’re planning to make some day trips to other parts of Scotland while you’re in town. Double rooms here normally cost between £170 and £300 per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Cairn Hotel & Apartments – $  

Cairn Hotel & Apartments offers an affordable stay in Calton Hill. It’s located in a quiet area but is still close to lots of shops, theatres, and nightlife. In fact, the Playhouse Theatre is just a 7-minute walk away. The rooms are fairly basic but are clean and comfortable, and the bathrooms are nice and modern.

If you ask us, this is one of the best budget hotels in Edinburgh! Small double rooms here typically cost between £170 and £225 per night.

Check out all prices and availability at Booking.com!

West End/Haymarket 

The West End and Haymarket area sits just west of Princes Street. It offers a great blend of local character and city convenience. 

The West End is known for its elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture, and is home to cultural landmarks like the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. The peaceful Dean Village is also right nearby. Haymarket, on the other hand, is a transport hub with easy access to the airport, tram line, and train connections, making it a super convenient place to stay. So basically, you’ve got the best of both worlds around here!

This area suits travelers who want to be close to the city center without being in the thick of the tourist crowds. The nightlife around here can be fun, but it’s definitely not as raucous as other areas.

All in all, we think that this area is great for families, day trippers, and those who want to experience a bit more of a local vibe while still being close to all the action. You’ll still be within walking distance of sights like Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, and the EICC, while also enjoying a quieter and more residential vibe.

Pros

• Great transport links via Haymarket Station and trams
• Less touristy, with plenty of local restaurants and shops
  

Cons

• 15 – 20 minute walk from the Old Town 
• Traffic can be quite busy during rush hour

The Resident Edinburgh – $$$ 

The Resident Edinburgh is a new and polished 4-star hotel in the West End. The rooms are modern with sleek marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a few homely touches to make you feel calm and cozy. 

In terms of location, you’ll be just a short walk from both Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, while nearby Haymarket Station makes it easy to get around the city or hop on a train to the airport. The hotel itself doesn’t have a restaurant, but with a ton of great cafés and restaurants right on your doorstep, I doubt you’ll miss it!

Rooms here typically cost between £250 and £300 per night.

Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!

Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket – $$

Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is a solid mid-range choice in the West End. It’s within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, and other major sights, with tram and bus connections close by for easy access across the city. The vibe here is more practical than plush, but it’s in a great location and we think it offers good value for money.

Rooms are spacious and modern, with comfy beds, air-conditioning, and workspaces that make them ideal for both relaxing and getting things done. Families are well catered for too, thanks to larger room options and kid-friendly amenities.

Rooms here typically cost between £175 and £250 per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Hampton Inn – $$

Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End is a reliable hotel in a great location! It’s about a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The rooms are clean and modern with comfy beds, and you can’t beat a complimentary breakfast buffet, am I right?

There’s also a fitness center, a casual bar and restaurant serving international dishes, and a multilingual front desk team happy to help with local tips. For a nice stay in a central location, Hampton by Hilton delivers everything you need without any fuss.

Rooms here start at around £200 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Southside

Southside is one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant and eclectic areas. I think it’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the city’s creative energy. This area is home to the prestigious University of Edinburgh, which definitely contributes to the area’s youthful, artsy vibe. The streets here are lined with thrift shops, indie bookstores, cinemas, and cafes where you’ll see students revising or plugging away at their essays. 

As the name suggests, Southside is a little south of Edinburgh’s historic center. However, it’s still within walking distance of the Old Town, including the Castle and the Royal Mile. Plus, you’ll be closer to Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park, so this part of town is great for those who want to enjoy some outdoor adventures in Edinburgh.

And if you’re in Edinburgh during the world-famous Fringe Festival, this area becomes one of the liveliest hubs in the city. It’s the place to be when all of those creatives are in town! 

But for most of the year, Southside is ideal for those who want to be close to the action without staying right in the middle of it. If you enjoy an offbeat, artsy vibe, then I can almost guarantee that you’ll love Southside.

Pros

• Trendy restaurants, music venues, and independent shops
• Easy access to both the city center and outdoor attractions

Cons

• Not as scenic or historic as other parts of Edinburgh
• Can be noisy and busy, especially during festival season

Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh – $$$ 

Hotel Du Vin Edinburgh is a stylish 4-star hotel. It’s housed in an old asylum, but don’t let that put you off! It’s a sumptuous and elegant property with lots of historic charm, plus a fantastic French-inspired restaurant and even a walk-in humidor for cigar enthusiasts. I also love the sophisticated mezzanine bar! 

Meanwhile, Edinburgh Castle is just a 10-minute stroll away, and Prince Street’s shops are right nearby. This boutique hotel is perfect for travelers looking for a plush stay within walking distance of all of the city’s top sights. Rooms here typically range between £250 and £550 per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Ten Hill Place – $$

Located on a quiet street just steps from the Festival Theatre, Ten Hill Place strikes a nice balance between calm and convenience. What’s cool about this place is that it’s run by the Royal College of Surgeons, and the profits go back into training healthcare professionals. It certainly gives your stay a feel-good bonus!

The rooms are stylish and modern, with big windows and comfy beds. The staff here are also super friendly, and they’ll show you the true meaning of Scottish hospitality. Meanwhile, there’s an in-house restaurant and bar serving up seasonal Scottish fare, and you can opt to include breakfast with your stay for extra convenience.

Rooms here usually cost between £150 and £250 per night, but they do go up in price during the Fringe in August.

Check availability and secure your stay here!

KM Hotel – $

KM Hotel is a great-value base in the heart of the Southside. It’s part of the University of Edinburgh’s summer accommodation, so it’s especially popular during festival season.

The rooms are simple but modern, with clean lines and all the essentials like free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. There’s also a breakfast room and access to nearby cafés and takeaway spots. While you won’t find luxury touches, the location is fantastic – and hard to beat at this price point!

Double rooms at the KM Hotel typically cost between £150 and £250 per night, or around £375 during the Fringe when demand soars.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Stockbridge

Stockbridge is a charming, village-like neighborhood just north of New Town that offers a quieter, more local experience of Edinburgh. It’s ideal for travelers who want to escape the tourist crowds without sacrificing walkability. And with cobblestone streets, Georgian townhouses, and leafy paths along the Water of Leith, it’s hard not to fall in love with this area.

And if that doesn’t all sound storybook enough for you, Stockbridge is also home to a ton of cozy pubs, some of the city’s best brunch spots, and an excellent Sunday farmers’ market. If we ever moved to Edinburgh, this is where we would live! 

Staying in Stockbridge doesn’t mean compromising on location, either – well, not for those who like to walk, anyway. It’s around a 20-minute walk to Princes Street and about 30 minutes to the castle, although buses do run regularly too. 

We think that this area is a fantastic choice for longer stays and return visitors. It’s not for those who want to be smack dab in the middle of Edinburgh’s action and close to the late-night bars, but if you’re more interested in laid-back charm and traditional pubs, you’ll love Stockbridge!

Pros

• Quiet, local feel with great cafes and puns
• Beautiful walking paths and lots of green space

Cons

• A bit farther from the main attractions
• Fewer budget accommodation options

The Raeburn – $$$

Set in a beautifully converted Georgian townhouse, The Raeburn is a boutique hotel that blends old Edinburgh charm with modern luxury. The rooms are elegant with sleek design touches, as well as big windows and rainfall showers.

Downstairs, there’s a cozy bar and restaurant that’s popular with locals for Sunday roasts and cocktails. Meanwhile, its location in the heart of Stockbridge makes it perfect for a peaceful stay that’s still well connected to the rest of the city. 

Rooms at The Raeburn generally cost between £225 and £350 per person.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Nira Caledonia – $$

Nira Caledonia is a boutique hotel located in a quiet corner just between Stockbridge and New Town. It offers elegant rooms with high ceilings, plush beds, and period features. They feel fit for royalty! 

The hotel is set in historic Georgian buildings, but it still boasts lots of modern comforts, like smart TVs and even Jacuzzi tubs in some bathrooms. And in terms of location, it’s absolutely ideal if you want a peaceful base within easy reach of both Stockbridge’s charm and the city center’s top attractions. I think it would be perfect for a romantic stay in Edinburgh! 

You can typically expect to pay between £250 and £350 per night for a room at Nira Caledonia.

Find the best prices at Booking.com!

New Town Guest House – $

New Town Guest House is a solid budget option just a short walk from Stockbridge’s cafés and shops. It’s housed in a classic Edinburgh townhouse and offers clean, compact rooms with all the basics covered. 

This is an adults-only hotel. While it’s not fancy, it’s a real winner in terms of location and affordability. Plus, it has a really welcoming, homely feel that you just wouldn’t get in a big chain hotel.  You’ll be hard-pressed to find such an affordable stay elsewhere in central Edinburgh! 

Rooms here typically cost between £100 and £200 per night, though prices do go up during the Fringe.

Check availability and book your stay here!

East Old Town (Holyrood)

Tucked at the eastern end of the Royal Mile, East Old Town feels a little quieter and more spacious than the rest of Old Town, but it’s still packed with history. This is where you’ll find some of Edinburgh’s biggest cultural landmarks, including the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the King’s official residence in Scotland), the Scottish Parliament, and the striking architecture of Dynamic Earth.

It’s also right at the base of Holyrood Park, which is home to Arthur’s Seat. This is Edinburgh’s most iconic hike, which delivers panoramic views over the city. So if you’re into photography, history, or the outdoors, East Old Town delivers on all fronts.

East Old Town has a relaxed vibe, and although it’s not the best area for nightlife, you can still walk to George Street in around 15 minutes and find yourself right in the middle of Edinburgh’s best bars. But to be honest, this area is best suited for those who enjoy early morning walks, quiet evenings, and lots of culture. It’s great for families, couples, and anyone seeking a wholesome and history-filled trip to Edinburgh.

Pros

• Walking distance to Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat
• Quieter than the central Royal Mile

Cons

• Fewer restaurants and bars than in other parts of Old Town
• Can feel a bit removed from the city’s livelier energy
  

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh – $$$

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh is a modern 4-star hotel that’s just a short stroll from the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Arthur’s Seat. The rooms are stylish and well-appointed, with comfy beds, air-conditioning, and soundproof windows. It’s great for a restful night’s sleep in the heart of the city! 

The hotel also offers a bar, restaurant, and fitness center, so you’ve got everything you could possibly need. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a relaxing stay in a quieter part of the city while still being within walking distance of the Royal Mile.

Rooms here cost between £250 and £400 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile – $$

We think that Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile is a great option for travelers who want a little more independence during their stay. Each unit includes a small kitchen, so it’s ideal for those who like to self-cater.

The hotel is set just off the Royal Mile, so you’re close to historic sites but away from the crowds. The design is sleek and modern, and there’s a small fitness area and 24-hour reception. It offers fantastic value for money in a prime location!

Prices here range between £200 and £300 per night.

Check out the rave reviews and book your stay here!

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Royal Mile by IHG – $$

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Royal Mile by IHG is a clean and modern hotel in a peaceful spot. It’s just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Waverley Station is just a 7-minute walk away, so it’s convenient for day trips and getting around. 

This place isn’t flashy, but the rooms are contemporary and well-designed. The beds are comfy, the WiFi is reliable, and a hot breakfast is included in the room rate. If you don’t mind forgoing the bells and whistles of fancy hotels, this place is a really great-value option in a central location.

Standard double rooms here cost between £200 and £300 per night.

Secure your stay here, while rooms are still available!

Other Activities to do While in Edinburgh

Once you’ve figured out where to stay, it’s time to jump into everything that makes Edinburgh so unforgettable. Whether you’re heading underground for ghost stories, trekking through the Highlands, or snacking your way through the Old Town, this city brings the drama, flavor, and history in spades.

Here are some of the best things to do in Edinburgh—from eerie vaults to legendary lochs—to soak up the city’s character, culture, and just the right amount of creepiness along the way!

• Step into Edinburgh’s underground history – We didn’t expect to be walking through pitch-dark vaults beneath the Royal Mile, but that’s exactly what made this underground walking tour so cool. Our guide’s storytelling was equal parts creepy and fascinating. History really does hit differently underground!

• Indulge your sweet tooth – Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you. We toured a working micro-factory, learned how chocolate is made from bean to bar, and got hands-on with tastings (and even made our own!). This chocolate-making adventure is a fun, flavorful experience right in the heart of Edinburgh.

• Chase legends through the Highlands – From rolling glens to moody lochs, this day trip gave us all the Scotland feels. We visited Loch Ness, spotted Highland cows, and wrapped things up with a whisky tasting. A scenic, storytelling-filled adventure you’ll talk about for years.

• Skip the line and storm the castle – No waiting in line and no wandering aimlessly—this Edinburgh Castle tour got us straight to the good stuff. Our guide’s stories of battles, royalty, and the Stone of Destiny gave real context to this iconic landmark.

• Eat your way through Old Town – Haggis, whisky, and local cheeses never tasted so good. We spent three hours on this food tour strolling through Edinburgh’s historic center with a small group, sampling our way through Scotland’s flavors while learning a ton of fun local food trivia.

Renting a Car in the UK

Renting a car in the UK is a fantastic way to explore beyond the cities—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the United Kingdom

• Drive on the left: In the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means the driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in the UK are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need.
• City driving & zones: Cities like London and Birmingham have congestion charges and LEZs (low-emission zones). Double-check before entering—some zones require advance registration or payment.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the UK

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If your license isn’t in English or doesn’t use Latin characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the UK on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

From ghost tours to Highland day trips and everything in between, exploring Edinburgh is full-on—in the best way. That’s why having the right home base matters. Whether you’re drawn to Grassmarket’s lively charm, New Town’s Georgian grace, or the quiet views from Calton Hill, there’s a spot that fits your travel style. Hopefully, this guide made picking your perfect neighborhood a little easier!

For more travel ideas beyond Edinburgh, be sure to check out our Europe blogs! They’re packed with tips, itineraries, and destination guides to help you plan your next adventure. Or here are a few of our favorites to help you get started.

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Edinburgh: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

10 BEST Things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland

10 Awesome Things to do in Dublin, Ireland