Hotels in Edinburgh

Edinburgh: Where Ancient Castles Embrace Vibrant Culture

Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital, seamlessly blends rich history with vibrant culture. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop volcanic rock, the city invites exploration through its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town. Wander the cobbled streets to discover world-class museums, like the National Museum of Scotland, and historic monuments such as the Scott Monument. Experience the lively atmosphere of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, or take a stroll through the lush greenery of Holyrood Park. With its enchanting charm and stunning landscapes, Edinburgh promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Edinburgh, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Some of the best places to stay in Edinburgh are Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh City Centre and Leith. Edinburgh offers diverse experiences for travelers. Old Town Edinburgh is rich in history and medieval charm, making it perfect for first-time visitors. The Edinburgh City Centre buzzes with shops, restaurants, and attractions, providing easy access to everything. Leith, a vibrant waterfront area, showcases local culture and eateries. Accommodations range from boutique hotels in the Old Town to modern stays in the City Centre and cozy guesthouses in Leith, ensuring options for every traveler’s preference. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Edinburgh:

1. Old Town EdinburghOpens in a new window: Old Town Edinburgh is a captivating area steeped in history and culture, featuring iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The cobbled streets and historic architecture create a romantic atmosphere perfect for exploration. For accommodations, consider 94DROpens in a new window, a luxurious boutique hotel offering uniquely designed decor and business amenities. Another excellent option is Virgin Hotels EdinburghOpens in a new window, which caters to families and pet owners, providing child-friendly amenities and allowing pets onsite. Additionally, Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile EdinburghOpens in a new window features distinctive decor and a pet-friendly policy, making it a stylish choice for travelers.
2. Edinburgh City CentreOpens in a new window: Edinburgh City Centre is a vibrant hub, ideal for both leisure and business travelers. It boasts easy access to attractions like Princes Street and the historic Edinburgh Castle. For those seeking a luxurious stay, The Balmoral HotelOpens in a new window offers business facilities and pet-friendly policies. Kimpton Charlotte Square, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another great choice, providing amenities for families and business travelers alike, including meeting rooms and complimentary cribs. Lastly, The Howard, an Ascend Hotel Collection MemberOpens in a new window features uniquely designed spaces and business amenities, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay.
3. LeithOpens in a new window: Leith is a family-friendly district that combines waterfront charm with cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for visitors. Explore nearby sites like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle while enjoying the local dining scene. Fingal - A Luxury Floating HotelOpens in a new window offers luxury accommodations with business amenities, perfect for travelers looking for upscale comfort. Six Brunton PlaceOpens in a new window provides a guesthouse experience focused on luxury, while The Bonnie BadgerOpens in a new window is an excellent choice for families, featuring direct beach access and various child-friendly amenities.

What to do in Edinburgh

Three days in Edinburgh offer an enchanting blend of historic charm and stunning landscapes. Explore rolling hills, lush parks, and coastal beauty, while enjoying vibrant festivals, art exhibitions, and local shopping. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, or take leisurely walks, making this city a must-visit for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Edinburgh:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the enchanting Rosslyn Chapel, famous for its intricate carvings and mysterious history. After soaking in the chapel's beauty, head over to Hawthornden Castle, where you can explore the stunning grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Conclude your day with a hike in the Pentland Hills Regional Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with picturesque trails and breathtaking vistas that showcase Scotland's natural beauty.
• Day 2: Start your day at the historic Dalhousie Castle, where you can explore its impressive architecture and rich heritage. Next, meander through Gore Glen Woodland Park, a perfect spot for a peaceful walk among lush greenery and wildlife. As your day unfolds, make your way to Newbattle Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery, where you can delve into its fascinating history and enjoy the serene surroundings.
• Day 3: Your day kicks off with a visit to Dalkeith Country Park, where you can wander through beautiful gardens and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Afterward, head to Silver Sands Beach for a refreshing seaside experience, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the shore and enjoy the coastal views. Wrap up your journey with a trip to the iconic Forth Road Bridge, where you can marvel at its impressive engineering while soaking in the stunning river scenery.

5 tips to find a great Edinburgh hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those planning a budget-friendly trip to Edinburgh, the most affordable months to visit are January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance to secure great value for money. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city's notable attractions, such as the iconic castle and fascinating museums. This way, you can experience the best of Edinburgh without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Edinburgh, you might want to check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Also, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you stay in the loop and potentially save on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Edinburgh.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Edinburgh and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Edinburgh

Here are a few must-try restaurants in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom:

• Dishoom Edinburgh: A beloved eatery inspired by the Irani cafés of Mumbai, showcasing a vibrant blend of Indian flavors with Scottish ingredients, offering a memorable dining experience that celebrates cultural fusion.
• The Kitchin: This Michelin-starred restaurant emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced produce, crafting innovative dishes that reflect the essence of Scotland’s culinary heritage while maintaining a creative flair that delights the palate.
• Society Bar & Kitchen: A contemporary venue that champions fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a diverse menu that creatively combines traditional Scottish fare with modern twists, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Edinburgh

Edinburgh experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.5°F (3.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 58.1°F (14.5°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Edinburgh are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.