Edinburgh Hotels

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh

• Historic Landmarks: Explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the enchanting Old Town, rich in history and culture.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Stroll through various neighbourhoods, each offering unique character and a warm atmosphere.
• Vibrant Shopping: Experience a delightful blend of shopping, from antique shops to modern boutiques in the city centre.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy outdoor activities at nearby beaches and the Midlothian Ski Centre for thrilling experiences.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of accommodation options, including charming guesthouses and modern hotels.

Find great hotels in Edinburgh

Discover an array of hotel accommodation options in Edinburgh, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, facilities for business travel, or an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, Edinburgh caters to all. Explore the best hotels in the city, complete with glowing reviews and unique experiences, ensuring a memorable visit to Scotland's capital.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: A 4-star eco-certified haven in the heart of Edinburgh, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a perfect choice for eco-conscious travellers and business professionals alike. Its modern design harmonises with the historic surroundings, offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Guests enjoy a selection of contemporary amenities, including a fitness centre and on-site dining with locally sourced ingredients. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability ensures that your stay is both comfortable and environmentally friendly, making it a standout option for those prioritising eco-friendly practices.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: This elegant 4-star hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere alongside a luxurious spa experience. Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is known for its sophisticated rooms and comprehensive wellness facilities, including an indoor pool and a full-service spa offering treatments like hot stone massages and manicures. Ideal for families and business travellers, the hotel provides amenities for children and an inviting restaurant serving delicious meals. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring Edinburgh’s attractions, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: A welcoming 3-star property, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile is perfect for eco-conscious, pet-friendly, and LGBTQIA travellers. This hotel is situated near the historic Royal Mile, providing easy access to Edinburgh's rich culture and vibrant atmosphere. Guests appreciate the eco-friendly practices and the pet policy, which includes amenities for furry friends. With comfortable rooms and a relaxed environment, this hotel ensures a pleasant stay for all types of visitors, making it a delightful choice for your Edinburgh adventure.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of history and culture, perfect for family and city-themed holidays. Stroll along the elegant streets of the city centre and immerse yourself in the enchanting Old Town, where every corner reveals a tale of the past. With its friendly atmosphere and romantic spots, Edinburgh promises a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to wander through its charming neighbourhoods, each brimming with unique character and warmth.

• Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is the heart of the city, characterised by its medieval streets and iconic landmarks. Visitors are drawn to its cobbled alleys and historic architecture, with attractions like the majestic Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Ideal for those seeking a cultural experience, Old Town offers a variety of shopping, theatre, and educational venues. The bustling atmosphere peaks during spring and summer, making it a vibrant destination for families and city explorers alike.
• Edinburgh City Centre: The lively Edinburgh City Centre is the bustling hub of the capital, known for its blend of modernity and tradition. This area is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts, offering a wealth of shopping options and entertainment venues, including renowned theatres and arenas. The city centre is home to historic sites, charming streets, and a variety of events, ensuring a dynamic experience. Peak visitor numbers occur in the summer months, making it a vibrant and exciting place to explore.
• North Berwick: Just a short journey from Edinburgh, North Berwick is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Ideal for those who love nature, visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing and hiking along scenic trails. The beautiful beaches and the nearby national park are highlights for any outdoor enthusiast. With its seasonal peaks in spring and summer, North Berwick offers a refreshing escape for adventurers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a delightful blend of cultural and family-friendly activities, perfect for city-themed vacations. Explore its vibrant shopping areas, visit antique shops, and indulge in the local education scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Midlothian Ski Centre provides thrilling experiences, while various entertainment facilities host captivating shows. Whether you're seeking tourist attractions or unique outdoor adventures, Edinburgh promises a memorable getaway filled with charm and excitement.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Edinburgh, visit Craigleith Retail Park for a variety of shops and family-friendly entertainment. Don't miss The Hub for unique gifts and Scottish Gems for exquisite jewellery and souvenirs, all in a vibrant city atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the lush greens of Archerfield Links, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. For relaxation, Hillend Country Park offers serene walking trails and peaceful picnic spots, perfect for unwinding in nature. Murrayfield Stadium provides an exhilarating atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, showcasing thrilling matches.

Adventure

At the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Ratho, experience thrill and challenge on indoor and outdoor climbing walls, perfect for adventurers of all levels. Meanwhile, the Midlothian Snowsports Centre offers skiing and snowboarding for those seeking an exhilarating winter sports experience, while Skirmish Edinburgh Paintball promises action-packed fun in the great outdoors.

Nightlife

In Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre captivates with its cultural performances, while Camera Obscura and World of Illusions promises family fun through its interactive exhibits. For a more relaxed evening, Greyfriar's Bobby offers a charming pub atmosphere, perfect for enjoying drinks and good conversation.

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 delightful blend of culture, family-friendly activities, and urban exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history by exploring iconic landmarks such as the magnificent Edinburgh Castle and the charming Old Town. The city also boasts beautiful streets and nearby beaches, perfect for outdoor experiences. Whether you seek cultural enrichment or leisurely strolls, Edinburgh and its surroundings cater to all types of travellers.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and a deep dive into Scotland's rich history. Explore its ancient buildings, including the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, while immersing yourself in the castle's romantic atmosphere and cultural significance.
• Princes Street: This vibrant thoroughfare is the heart of Edinburgh's shopping and dining scene. With a mix of high-street brands and charming boutiques, it buzzes with city life. Stroll along its length, taking in stunning views of the castle and the Old Town, as well as the lively atmosphere that defines the city.
• Princes Street Gardens: Nestled between the bustling Princes Street and the castle, these picturesque gardens provide a tranquil escape. Perfect for families, enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and events amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal flowers, all while soaking in the vibrant city surroundings.

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 its main airport, Edinburgh Airport (EDI), situated 11.3km from the city centre. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, Kimpton Charlotte Square by IHG, and Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, all within easy reach of the airport. Additionally, Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 77.2km away, with notable hotels such as the Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa and Leonardo Royal Hotel Glasgow offering shuttle services. For those considering Dundee Airport (DND), located 56.3km from Edinburgh, options like Premier Inn Dundee North and The Landmark Hotel & SPA are available, providing convenient access to the airport as well.