Hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh Castle

• Rich History: Edinburgh Castle boasts a fascinating history, serving as a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries.
• Stunning Architecture: The castle features impressive architecture, with its iconic stone walls and panoramic views of the city.
• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy nearby art galleries, theatre performances, and vibrant festivals that enrich your visit.
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to delve deeper into the castle's captivating tales and historical significance.
• Convenient Location: Situated centrally, the castle provides easy access to other attractions like the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace.

Find great hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Discover a range of delightful accommodations near Edinburgh Castle, catering to every type of traveller. From welcoming hotels to charming guesthouses, the area offers pet-friendly options and facilities for business travellers and LGBTQIA guests alike. Experience the unique charm of castle hotels while enjoying easy access to the historic sights of Edinburgh. Your perfect stay awaits in this captivating city.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: A contemporary 4-star hotel, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel boasts a distinctive blend of modern design and eco-friendly principles. Located a mere 322m from Edinburgh Castle, this accommodation is ideal for business travellers and eco-conscious visitors alike. Its eco-certification reflects a commitment to sustainability, featuring energy-efficient systems and locally sourced amenities. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms with stunning views of the castle, as well as a restaurant serving locally inspired dishes. The hotel also offers a fitness centre to maintain your wellness during your stay.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: This 3-star property is a charming choice for those seeking a pet-friendly and eco-certified experience. Situated 805m from Edinburgh Castle, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile combines comfort with convenience. The hotel welcomes pets, making it a great option for animal lovers. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and modern amenities, including a 24-hour front desk and complimentary Wi-Fi. The on-site restaurant offers a selection of dishes, ensuring a pleasant dining experience after a day of exploring the nearby Royal Mile.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Renowned for its luxurious offerings, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is a stylish 4-star establishment located 1km from Edinburgh Castle. This hotel is family-friendly and features a full-service spa, complete with an indoor pool and a range of therapeutic treatments. Guests rave about the spacious rooms and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Apex Waterloo Place also provides amenities for children, ensuring that families feel at home while enjoying their stay. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful array of dishes, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Castle

Your visit to Edinburgh Castle promises an enriching experience steeped in history, complemented by the warmth of friendly locals. Explore the central location, where you can easily access a plethora of attractions, from the Royal Mile to the enchanting Holyrood Palace. Whether you seek a family-friendly atmosphere, a romantic outing, or a convenient base for business, Edinburgh offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

• Edinburgh: As the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis that boasts a rich historical tapestry. Nestled against a backdrop of stunning landscapes, the city is home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the skyline. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from July to September, when festivals and cultural events abound. Here, you can explore a variety of activities, from shopping in the bustling streets to enjoying theatrical performances in renowned venues. Local landmarks, including historic sites and picturesque streets, offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located a mere 644m from Edinburgh Castle, the City Centre is a bustling hub of activity and culture. This neighbourhood experiences consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, with a peak during the summer months. The area is perfect for those seeking a city themed experience, featuring an array of shopping centres and theatres. Notable attractions include historic places and symbolic landmarks, which provide an engaging backdrop for exploring the city's dynamic atmosphere. The City Centre is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike, making it a must-visit during your stay.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is where you’ll find the majestic Edinburgh Castle. This neighbourhood welcomes travellers year-round, with peak visitation in April and July. Old Town is known for its city themed and culture themed experiences, with a plethora of shopping areas, educational sites, and theatres. The cobbled streets are lined with historic buildings and event venues that echo the city’s past, making it an enchanting place to explore. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll or indulging in local cuisine, Old Town offers a captivating glimpse into Edinburgh's heritage.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Shopping

At Edinburgh Castle, you can find charming gift shops offering Scottish souvenirs like tartan products and whisky. If you're up for a drive, visit the St James Quarter, about 1.6km away, where you'll discover a variety of shops including high-street brands and unique boutiques.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Edinburgh Castle gardens for a peaceful stroll, admiring the historic architecture. Engage in mindfulness practices with guided meditation sessions available nearby, allowing you to unwind while soaking in the rich history and stunning views of the city.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motorsport at Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 27km from Edinburgh Castle. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races or even try your hand at driving experiences, all set against a backdrop of stunning Scottish scenery.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night at the Scotch Whisky Experience on Castlehill, where you can sample a variety of local whiskies. For a lively atmosphere, visit The Bongo Club on New Street, known for its eclectic music and vibrant crowd, making it a great spot to dance the night away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh Castle

To save money on your visit to Edinburgh Castle, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay to avoid weekend price hikes. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and sort hotels by price. Look for eco-certified options for sustainable stays and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings. Take advantage of free attractions around the city to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edinburgh Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Edinburgh Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Edinburgh Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit for any tourist, offering a rich blend of culture and history. Explore the nearby streets, museums, and galleries that showcase the city's heritage. For a family-friendly experience, don't miss the stunning castle views and the chance to immerse yourself in Scotland's enchanting past. Consider nearby accommodations for a comfortable stay as you soak in the sights of this iconic Scottish castle.

• Princes Street: This vibrant thoroughfare, located 483m from Edinburgh Castle, offers a bustling city atmosphere with a variety of shops and eateries. It's an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking up the local culture.
• Princes Street Gardens: Just 161m from the castle, these beautifully landscaped gardens provide a serene escape in the heart of the city. Ideal for families, the gardens feature lovely paths and stunning views of the castle, making it a perfect outdoor retreat.
• Festival Theatre: Situated 966m away, this renowned venue is a cultural hub for live performances, offering a romantic ambiance. The theatre showcases a variety of productions, enhancing Edinburgh's vibrant arts scene.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Castle

The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh Castle

Getting to EDInburgh Castle is convenient with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) located 10km away. Nearby hotels iNCLude the 5-star Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, only 10km from the airport, and the 5.5-star Crescent House, situated 11km away. For those considering GLAsgow Airport (GLA), located 77km away, notable hotels include the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland, just 6km from the airport. Lastly, Newcastle Airport (NCL) is 138km distant, with options like the 4-star Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead, 10km away. Each airport offers various transportation services to facilitate easy access to your accommodation.