Edinburgh Hotels

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh

• Historic Edinburgh Castle: A must-visit landmark, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich past.
• Charming Old Town: Wander the cobbled streets filled with stunning architecture, vibrant cafes, and unique shops.
• Scenic Neighbourhoods: Explore friendly local areas that showcase Edinburgh’s heritage and offer a welcoming atmosphere.
• Vibrant Holiday Markets: Experience the festive spirit with lively markets perfect for shopping and indulging in local treats.
• Excellent Golf Courses: Enjoy leisure time at top-notch golf clubs set against beautiful backdrops.

Find great hotels in Edinburgh

Explore an array of accommodation options in Edinburgh, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly establishments, business amenities, or LGBTQIA-friendly environments, the city offers a diverse selection to suit every traveller's needs. Read hotel reviews and discover the top hotels in this historic Scottish capital, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant destination.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Nestled in the vibrant Grassmarket area, the 4-star Apex Grassmarket Hotel showcases a distinctive blend of modern comfort and eco-consciousness. Rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests, this hotel caters to those seeking a sustainable travel experience, featuring eco-certified credentials. With its stylish rooms and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, it provides a serene retreat after a day of exploration. The hotel also offers a well-equipped business centre, making it an excellent choice for business travellers.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: Situated conveniently near the historic Royal Mile, the 3-star ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, appealing to budget-conscious travellers. This hotel is pet-friendly and eco-certified, allowing guests to enjoy their stay with their furry companions. The amenities include comfortable rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a vibrant bar and restaurant. The welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Edinburgh's attractions make it a practical choice for tourists.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Located in the heart of the city, the 4-star Apex Waterloo Place Hotel stands out with its luxurious spa facilities and family-friendly amenities. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for those seeking relaxation and comfort. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including massage services and couples’ treatment rooms, ensuring a soothing experience. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, making it a well-rounded option for both leisure and business travellers.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers an enchanting mix of history and vibrant culture, perfect for family-friendly adventures or romantic getaways. The historic Old Town, with its cobbled streets and stunning architecture, invites exploration, while the bustling city centre is brimming with charming cafes and shops. Just a short walk away, you'll find scenic neighbourhoods that showcase the city’s friendly atmosphere and rich heritage, making it an ideal destination for a memorable weekend escape.

• Old Town Edinburgh: Step back in time in Old Town Edinburgh, a historic neighbourhood that brims with rich culture and charm. Nestled around the Royal Mile, this area features cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle. Visitors flock here year-round, particularly between April and July, for a taste of the city's vibrant theatre scene, unique shopping experiences, and family-friendly activities. The enchanting atmosphere is perfect for exploring historic sites and attending events at local conference venues, making it an essential stop for any traveller.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Edinburgh City Centre is the bustling heart of the capital, where history meets modernity. This vibrant neighbourhood attracts visitors from July to September, offering a plethora of cultural experiences. With theatres, shopping areas, and renowned restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Noteworthy landmarks like the Scott Monument and the historic streets of the Old Town are within easy reach, providing a perfect blend of sightseeing and leisure. Families and culture enthusiasts alike will find plenty to explore in this dynamic urban setting.
• New Town: New Town represents the elegance of Edinburgh's Georgian architecture and is an ideal neighbourhood for those seeking a blend of culture and city life. With its picturesque streets and numerous shopping centres, visitors are drawn here particularly in April, July, and September. The area is home to beautiful parks and symbolic landmarks, making it a delightful place for families and culture seekers to enjoy leisurely strolls. New Town offers a sophisticated atmosphere, dotted with theatres and dining options, ensuring a memorable visit.

Things to do near Edinburgh

Shopping

In the heart of the city, you can explore the historic Grassmarket, where unique crafts and souvenirs await. For a more extensive selection, head to the St James Quarter, showcasing a variety of shops from high street brands to local boutiques, perfect for finding gifts to take home.

Recreation

The Braid Hills Hotel offers a tranquil setting with spa treatments, a golf course, and stunning views of Edinburgh. Experience relaxation and rejuvenation at the Caledonian Spa, where you can indulge in a variety of holistic therapies and wellness experiences tailored to your needs.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motorsport at Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 27km from Edinburgh. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races or take part in driving experiences. The atmosphere is electric, surrounded by stunning scenery and the excitement of competitive racing.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the Bongo Club on Cowgate for eclectic music and dancing. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Edinburgh Gin Distillery on Rutland Place to savour their cocktails. Don't miss the live performances at Sneaky Pete's on Cowgate, showcasing local bands and DJs.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh

Edinburgh provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and Grassmarket. For transport, utilise the affordable bus and tram services. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between January and March, when prices are lower, and aim to book a month in advance for the best deals. Tuesday is the cheapest night to stay, while Saturday is the priciest. Use Expedia to compare rates, filter for eco-friendly options, and explore package deals combining flights and hotels for extra savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Edinburgh 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 in Edinburgh is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Edinburgh with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a rich cultural experience perfect for family and city-themed holidays. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, stroll through vibrant streets, and relax at nearby beaches. The city caters to those seeking cultural enrichment, outdoor adventures, and seaside leisure. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover the charm of resident Edinburgh, Scotland.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city. This historic fortress is steeped in rich history and culture, showcasing the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Its romantic atmosphere invites exploration of its ancient halls and battlements, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.
• Princes Street: A bustling thoroughfare, Princes Street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, embodying the vibrant city vibes of Edinburgh. The grand architecture and lively atmosphere make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a spot of shopping.
• Princes Street Gardens: Nestled between the Old and New Towns, Princes Street Gardens offers a serene escape with beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning views of the castle. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a perfect place to relax, picnic, or enjoy seasonal events.

Best time to go to Edinburgh

The best time to visit Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low 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	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	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	Slightly High	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh

Flying into EDInburgh is convenient, with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) situated 11km from the city centre. Nearby accommodation options iNCLude the 5.5-star Crescent House and the luxurious 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both easily accessible from the airport. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh is another excellent choice, located 10km from EDI. Alternatively, you can consider GLAsgow International Airport (GLA), located 77km away, with top hotels like the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland just 6km from GLA. For those flying into Newcastle International Airport (NCL), located 138km from Edinburgh, options include the 4-star Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead, situated 10km from NCL.