Old Town Edinburgh Hotels near Edinburgh

Top reasons to visit Old Town Edinburgh

• Historic Edinburgh Castle: A must-visit landmark, offering stunning views and rich history.
• Charming Cobblestone Streets: Wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy theatre performances, classical concerts, and engaging museums that showcase Scotland’s heritage.
• Royal Mile Exploration: Discover shops, cafés, and attractions along this iconic thoroughfare connecting the castle to Holyrood Palace.
• Diverse Accommodation: Stay in a range of historical and modern lodgings, catering to all preferences and needs.

Find great hotels in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Discover a diverse array of accommodation options in Old Town Edinburgh, where historic charm meets modern comfort. From welcoming guesthouses to well-equipped hotels, you’ll find the perfect base for your Scottish adventure. Many establishments cater to business travellers, are LGBTQIA-friendly, and offer pet-friendly experiences, ensuring a memorable stay for everyone. Explore top-rated hotels and enjoy reviews that guide you to the ideal Edinburgh hotel for your needs.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: This 4-star hotel is nestled in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, offering a vibrant atmosphere alongside stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it is an ideal choice for eco-conscious travellers and those on business. The hotel features modern, stylish rooms equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness centre to unwind after a day of exploring the historic city. The eco-certification ensures that your stay is as sustainable as it is enjoyable.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: This 3-star property, rated 8.4 out of 10, is conveniently located near the Royal Mile, making it a fantastic base for exploring Old Town. Known for its pet-friendly policy, this hotel welcomes furry companions with specific amenities tailored to their needs. The modern rooms are designed for comfort, while the eco-certification speaks to its commitment to sustainability. Guests appreciate the lively atmosphere and the friendly staff, making it a welcoming choice for both leisure and business travellers.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Situated a mere 322m from Old Town Edinburgh, this 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel combines elegance with family-friendly features, ensuring a welcoming environment for all ages. With its eco-certification, guests can enjoy a guilt-free stay while taking advantage of amenities such as children's breakfast options and convenient business services. The stylish rooms and proximity to attractions make this hotel an excellent choice for both families and business travellers seeking a touch of luxury.

Where to stay near Old Town Edinburgh

Discover the enchanting charm of Old Town Edinburgh, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic city centre, marvel at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with friendly locals. Explore nearby attractions such as the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace, perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways. Experience the rich heritage of Scotland in this captivating neighbourhood that promises unforgettable memories.

• Edinburgh: As a vibrant metropolis, Edinburgh is a cultural hub where history and modernity intertwine. Old Town Edinburgh, with its cobbled streets and historic landmarks, is a key part of the city. Visitors flock to Edinburgh year-round, particularly during the summer months of July to September, drawn by its rich cultural offerings, family-friendly attractions, and lively city atmosphere. The city boasts a variety of shopping areas, educational institutions, and theatres, while iconic landmarks like the Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile offer captivating glimpses into the past.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located a mere 644m from Old Town Edinburgh, the City Centre is a bustling neighbourhood that provides easy access to a plethora of activities. Like the rest of the city, it sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in summer. The area is perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering numerous shopping venues and theatres. Notable attractions include historic streets and various symbolic landmarks, making it an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in Edinburgh's vibrant culture.
• New Town: Situated 966m from Old Town, New Town is a sophisticated neighbourhood known for its Georgian architecture and elegant streets. It attracts visitors throughout the year, particularly in April, July, and September. New Town offers a blend of family-friendly, cultural, and urban experiences, with shopping areas and theatres aplenty. The area is home to several historic sites and symbolic landmarks, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely exploration and a taste of Edinburgh's rich heritage.

Things to do near Old Town Edinburgh

Shopping

In Old Town Edinburgh, explore the historic Grassmarket for unique gifts and artisan crafts. Nearby, the St James Quarter offers a modern shopping experience with various brands. Don't miss the Royal Mile, lined with charming shops selling traditional Scottish souvenirs and local delicacies.

Recreation

In Old Town Edinburgh, the One Spa offers a tranquil escape with its luxurious treatments and stunning rooftop hydropool. Alternatively, you can relax at the St. James Quarter’s wellness centre, where yoga classes and mindfulness sessions promote relaxation amid the vibrant city atmosphere.

Adventure

Knockhill Racing Circuit is a thrilling motor racing venue situated 29km from Old Town Edinburgh. Experience the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races or even take part in driving experiences, surrounded by the excitement of motorsport and the scenic Scottish countryside.

Nightlife

In Old Town Edinburgh, the Bongo Club buzzes with eclectic music and vibrant crowds, while The Liquid Room showcases live gigs and club nights. For a more laid-back vibe, head to The Bow Bar for a wide selection of ales and a warm atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Town Edinburgh

To save money during your visit to Old Town Edinburgh, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a month in advance typically yields the best rates, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. Utilise Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and combine bookings for flights and activities to secure additional savings. Look for last-minute deals and sort results by price for the most affordable options. Explore free activities such as walking tours and local parks to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Town 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: Booking a hotel around Old Town Edinburgh about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Old Town Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Town Edinburgh 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 results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see 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 are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Old Town Edinburgh with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh is ideal for city and culture-themed family vacations, offering an array of attractions such as the historic Edinburgh Castle and the charming streets of the old town. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere of this area, exploring museums and local tourist precincts. Whether wandering through the old town or venturing into the nearby New Town, there’s a wealth of experiences to enjoy in this captivating destination.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers breathtaking views of the city. With its rich history and stunning architecture, you can immerse yourself in the tales of Scotland's past while enjoying a romantic atmosphere.
• Princes Street Gardens: Located a mere 805m from Old Town, this urban park is a delightful green space amidst the bustling city. Ideal for families, it features beautiful flowerbeds and a relaxing ambience, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
• Festival Theatre: Just 483m away, this vibrant venue hosts a variety of performances, from opera to ballet. The cultural richness of the theatre, combined with its romantic setting, makes it a must-visit for those seeking entertainment in Edinburgh.

Best time to go to Old Town Edinburgh

The best time to visit Old Town Edinburgh 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	Slightly High	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	Average	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 Old Town Edinburgh

Flying into Old Town EDInburgh is convenient, with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) located 11km away. Notable nearby hotels iNCLude the 5.5-star rating Crescent House and the 5-star rated Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, all within close proximity to the airport. For alternatives, GLAsgow International Airport (GLA) is 79km away, with 5-star options like JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa nearby. Newcastle International Airport (NCL), situated 138km from Old Town, offers good accommodation choices such as Delta Hotels by Marriott and Copthorne Hotel, both 10km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services to their respective airports.