When it comes to planning a trip to Edinburgh, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Scotland’s capital city has a plethora of amazing neighborhoods and accommodations to choose from. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the best places to stay in Edinburgh. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect spot to rest your head during your Edinburgh adventure.
Overview of Edinburgh’s Neighborhoods
Edinburgh is a compact city, making it easy to get around and explore its many neighborhoods. From the historic Old Town to the trendy bars and restaurants of the New Town, each area has its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy B&Bs, Edinburgh has something for every style and budget.
Popular Areas to Stay in Edinburgh
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular areas to stay in Edinburgh, including the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and the trendy neighborhoods of Stockbridge and Leith. We’ll also explore some of the city’s lesser-known gems, such as the charming suburb of Morningside and the historic waterfront area of Portobello.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of Edinburgh’s neighborhoods and be able to make an informed decision about where to stay during your visit. So, let’s get started and discover the best places to stay in Edinburgh!
Edinburgh Best Places to Stay
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. When planning a trip to Edinburgh, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many amazing neighborhoods and areas to choose from, it can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Edinburgh, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and budget.
New Town
New Town is a beautiful and affluent area in the heart of Edinburgh, known for its stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque streets. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the city center and have easy access to Edinburgh’s main attractions.
Some of the best hotels in New Town include:
- The Balmoral Hotel: A 5-star hotel located on Princes Street, offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of the city.
- The Glasshouse: A 5-star boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, offering luxurious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Bonham: A 4-star hotel located in a quiet street in New Town, offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome.
Old Town
Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh, with narrow streets and alleys that date back to the Middle Ages. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to Edinburgh’s main attractions, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Denver For Families)
Some of the best hotels in Old Town include:
- The Witchery: A 5-star hotel located in a beautifully restored 16th-century building, offering luxurious rooms and a romantic atmosphere.
- The Inn on the Mile: A 4-star hotel located on the Royal Mile, offering comfortable rooms and a lively atmosphere.
- The Royal Mile Hotel: A 3-star hotel located in the heart of Old Town, offering budget-friendly rooms and a warm welcome.
Leith
Leith is a charming waterfront area located just a few miles north of Edinburgh’s city center. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the sea and have easy access to Edinburgh’s main attractions.
Some of the best hotels in Leith include:
- The Malmaison Edinburgh: A 4-star hotel located on the waterfront, offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of the sea.
- The Hotel du Vin Edinburgh: A 4-star hotel located in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, offering luxurious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith: A 3-star hotel located near the waterfront, offering budget-friendly rooms and a warm welcome.
Southside
Southside is a charming area located just south of Edinburgh’s city center, known for its beautiful parks and gardens. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the city center but also want to experience a more laid-back atmosphere.
Some of the best hotels in Southside include:
- The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa: A 5-star hotel located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, offering luxurious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Novotel Edinburgh Park: A 4-star hotel located near the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome.
- The Travelodge Edinburgh Central: A 3-star hotel located near the city center, offering budget-friendly rooms and a convenient location.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry! Edinburgh has plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. Here are a few:
- Safestay Edinburgh: A hostel located in the heart of Old Town, offering dorms and private rooms at an affordable price.
- Meininger Edinburgh: A hostel located near the city center, offering dorms and private rooms at an affordable price.
- Ibis Budget Edinburgh Park: A budget hotel located near the city center, offering comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
Self-Catering Accommodation
If you prefer to have more space and flexibility, self-catering accommodation is a great option. Here are a few: (See Also: Best Places To Stay On Long Island)
- Edinburgh Apartments: A collection of apartments located throughout the city, offering comfortable and spacious accommodation.
- Citybase Apartments Edinburgh: A collection of apartments located near the city center, offering comfortable and spacious accommodation.
- Sykes Cottages Edinburgh: A collection of cottages and apartments located throughout the city, offering comfortable and spacious accommodation.
Neighborhoods to Avoid
While Edinburgh is generally a safe city, there are a few neighborhoods that are best avoided. These include:
- Muirhouse: A neighborhood located in the north of the city, known for its high crime rate and social issues.
- Pilton: A neighborhood located in the north of the city, known for its high crime rate and social issues.
- Granton: A neighborhood located in the north of the city, known for its high crime rate and social issues.
Recap
In conclusion, Edinburgh has plenty of amazing neighborhoods and areas to choose from, each with its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly options, or self-catering accommodation, there’s something for everyone. By considering factors such as location, amenities, and budget, you can find the perfect place to stay in Edinburgh.
Remember to avoid neighborhoods with high crime rates and social issues, and instead opt for areas that are safe and convenient. With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Edinburgh.
Here’s a summary of the key points:
- New Town is a beautiful and affluent area in the heart of Edinburgh, known for its stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque streets.
- Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh, with narrow streets and alleys that date back to the Middle Ages.
- Leith is a charming waterfront area located just a few miles north of Edinburgh’s city center.
- Southside is a charming area located just south of Edinburgh’s city center, known for its beautiful parks and gardens.
- Budget-friendly options include hostels and budget hotels, while self-catering accommodation offers more space and flexibility.
- Neighborhoods to avoid include Muirhouse, Pilton, and Granton, due to high crime rates and social issues.
We hope this article has been helpful in planning your trip to Edinburgh. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Edinburgh Best Places To Stay
What are the most popular areas to stay in Edinburgh?
The most popular areas to stay in Edinburgh are the Old Town, New Town, and the Royal Mile. These areas offer easy access to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and bars. The Old Town is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, while the New Town provides a more laid-back atmosphere. The Royal Mile is perfect for those who want to be close to Edinburgh Castle and the National Museum of Scotland. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Charlottesville)
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb in Edinburgh?
It depends on your personal preference and budget. Hotels in Edinburgh offer a more traditional experience, with amenities like room service and a fitness center. Airbnb options, on the other hand, provide a more home-like atmosphere and can be more budget-friendly. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying in a boutique hotel or a luxury apartment.
What are the best neighborhoods for families to stay in Edinburgh?
Families will love staying in the Stockbridge or Morningside neighborhoods. These areas offer a more laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of parks and green spaces for kids to play. They’re also close to the city center, making it easy to get to Edinburgh’s main attractions. Additionally, these neighborhoods have a range of family-friendly accommodations, from apartments to hotels.
Are there any areas to avoid staying in Edinburgh?
While Edinburgh is generally a safe city, there are some areas that are best avoided. The Cowgate area can be quite loud and rowdy, especially at night, so it’s not ideal for families or those looking for a quiet stay. Additionally, the area around the Edinburgh Waverley train station can be quite busy and noisy, so it’s best to look for accommodations in quieter areas.
What’s the best way to get around Edinburgh from my accommodation?
Edinburgh is a walkable city, and many of its main attractions are within easy walking distance. However, if you’re staying in a neighborhood that’s a bit further out, consider purchasing a bus pass or using a ride-hailing service. Many accommodations also offer bike rentals or car parking, so be sure to check with your hotel or host before you arrive.
