From modern hotels that look straight out of a design book to historic houses that have seen names from history textbooks stay there, Edinburgh boasts many distinctive hotels. Read on to discover which are among the best.
Designated as an “original railway hotel,” this updated design brings stylish charm in the form of dreamy bedrooms (think pastel and velvet hues) as well as high-end amenities like the Guerlain spa.
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
The Grassmarket hotel stands out as an exceptional option in Edinburgh, providing guests with modern accommodation at an affordable price. Conveniently situated close to Princes Street and the National Museum of Scotland, its rooms feature modern interiors equipped with various amenities – Edinburgh gin bars and restaurants are nearby for convenient dining experiences; additionally there’s also a small fitness center on-site as well as complimentary wifi service available from this hotel.
The Apex Grassmarket Hotel from global hotel giant Marriott is an innovative millennial brand designed to prioritize function over form, making it ideal for travelers who intend to spend a considerable amount of time exploring Edinburgh. Each room is contemporary in design with warm wood headboards, fabrics in contemporary patterns, black-and-white photographs on walls and narrow balconies offering views across historic Grassmarket or Old Edinburgh; rooms are clean and spacious while bathrooms boast sleek appearances.
Room service and the Heights Restaurant serve breakfast, lunch and dinner daily at this hotel with free parking on site and located only minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station.
Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh is another luxury option and renowned Edinburgh landmark, boasting modern comfort with traditional Scottish aesthetic. Among its luxurious rooms and suites are Michelin-star restaurant Number One as well as spa center facilities – not forgetting its iconic clock tower which makes its presence felt across town! Moreover, its prime central location allows it to host JK Rowling’s old apartment!
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
Edinburgh is known for its beautiful neoclassic palaces, vibrant pub culture, and luxurious hotels – from grand dames like Balmoral with their 190ft clock tower to boutique properties housed within old baroque buildings that once housed national newspapers like The Herald – these properties provide memorable experiences you simply cannot replicate at home.
For an extravagant experience, stay at the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton where its rooms are spacious and contemporary. Situated along North Bridge in the city center, rooms may provide views of Princes Street Gardens or Edinburgh Castle (if lucky!). There are two on-site restaurants/bars as well as an expansive spa featuring pools, hydropools, thermal suites and treatment rooms that await.
Market Street Hotel opened in 2019 and boasts an ideal location across from Waverley Station. Rooms feature light wood accents that harken back to Scandi style; guests have raved that staff is welcoming and helpful.
Eden Locke apartments provide something different; featuring kitchens and living areas along with luxurious amenities like free wifi. Some units even boast balconies offering amazing views of Royal Mile. For extra space consider booking one of Eden Locke’s studio apartments or suites which come equipped with separate bedrooms and bathrooms.
Eden Locke
Edinburgh is a relatively compact city, so all of the best boutique hotels are conveniently situated close to its best attractions. No matter which part of Edinburgh you stay in – be it Old Town with charming old townhouses turned into boutique stays or up-and-coming districts like Bruntsfield with numerous stylish stays – you will have no difficulty locating something suitable.
Eden Locke Hotel stands out as an attractive option near Edinburgh’s historic old town, with studio-based hotel rooms designed to cater to short or extended stays in Edinburgh. Each studio-based room includes all necessary features – kitchenettes and bathrooms are included as are flat screen TVs with free wifi service and a complimentary bar & lounge where guests can unwind with wine or whiskey in style!
The Bonham is one of Edinburgh’s highly-rated boutique hotels. Formerly three Victorian townhouses serving different roles, this property was united into one hotel. Focusing more on function than style, its rooms feature out-of-the-box queen and twin beds; for a higher cost you could opt for suites offering views of Edinburgh Castle or Royal Mile.
Four Points by Sheraton offers another excellent budget hotel option near Haymarket Station with luxurious and contemporary amenities. Their rooms consistently rank higher than 99% of other properties – making this an excellent option for travelers on a tight budget.
Hotel guests appreciate how conveniently located this hotel is to multiple bus stops and offers easy public transport access. They also appreciate that it boasts a gym, sauna and pool; rooms are well-appointed; staff is on hand for recommendations; they can enjoy dining either onsite at its restaurant or nearby eateries.
The Edinburgh Grand
The Edinburgh Grand, opened its doors for business on the Royal Mile near Cowgate in 2019 with an elegant, boutique hotel feel that blends regal Edinburgh with modernity. Each of its rooms evokes cabins from Orient Express or Versailles with over-the-top dark red and deep purple velvet furnishings and luxurious marble bathrooms reminiscent of an Orient Express cabin or Versailles palace; in addition to this Vegas resort inspired spa which includes pool, hydropool, thermal suite, treatment rooms as well as several pools and hydropools – perfect for couples wanting a break while still remaining close enough to walk to Princes Street or any of its other top attractions!
Eden Locke offers luxurious serviced apartments in Edinburgh’s New Town and stands out as a vibrant oasis among the monochromatic Georgian townhouses. Their serviced apartments feel more like tropical getaways than standard Edinburgh hotels with kitchens, spacious living areas, large TVs and comfortable beds – not forgetting their helpful staff who can arrange sightseeing and dining trips!
Balmoral hotel has long been associated with Edinburgh itself and its iconic clock tower has become an instant landmark since opening its doors in 1902. Part of Rocco Forte family, you’ll find Michelin-star restaurants, an exquisite spa and guest rooms designed to reflect Scotland’s lush heather-covered countryside.
The Bonham
The Bonham is a luxurious boutique hotel in Edinburgh that combines location with accommodation. Ideal for romantic getaways and those wanting an indulgent experience while traveling without their children, The Bonham boasts beautiful historic surroundings as well as spacious accommodations featuring all necessary amenities for an enjoyable stay. Plus, staff at The Bonham can assist in booking tours or activities in Edinburgh!
This hotel features 49 individually-styled rooms and offers a sophisticated restaurant, bar and events space. Just steps from Edinburgh’s trendy West End shops, bars and restaurants as well as walking distance from numerous attractions like Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park, making this an excellent option for experiencing all that Edinburgh culture has to offer.
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton offers another excellent accommodation choice with its expansive rooms that boast stunning city views. These stylish yet modern accommodations boast all the amenities required to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Edinburgh.
If you’re on a tight budget, Four Points by Sheraton could be an excellent option. Situated near Haymarket Station and less than 15 minutes from Royal Mile, this hotel features a spa, an on-site restaurant, gym and modern rooms; guests often laud its convenient location and the friendly and helpful service that makes this an excellent value option.
Sophie is a fashion editor with a focus on luxury brands and fabric innovation. She writes about quality craftsmanship, offering insights into what makes timeless pieces truly stand out.
