If you are looking for a place to stay in Edinburgh, then this is the perfect article to check out. As the capital city of Scotland, the renowned travel destination is home to a wide selection of gorgeous accommodations. In this article, we have handpicked the 6 best places to stay in Edinburgh, ranging from vintage-inspired luxury hotels to cool design hotels.
The Balmoral
No discussion of Edinburgh’s hospitality is complete without The Balmoral. Originally opened in 1902 as a railway hotel, its majestic clock tower—traditionally set three minutes fast to ensure commuters don’t miss their trains—dominates the skyline.
Why it’s worth visiting: Staying here is a lesson in Scottish heritage. The rooms, redesigned by Olga Polizzi, blend contemporary comfort with classic tartans and soft heathers. It is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Number One and Palm Court, where the afternoon tea is a local institution. For literary fans, Room 552 is where J.K. Rowling finished writing the final Harry Potter book. It is the ultimate choice for those who want to feel the pulse of the city from its most prestigious vantage point.
Gleneagles Townhouse
While the original Gleneagles is a legendary country estate in Perthshire, its urban sibling in St Andrew Square has quickly become one of the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh. Housed in the former British Linen Bank, the architecture is breathtaking, featuring soaring ceilings and ornate stone carvings.
Why it’s worth visiting: The Townhouse offers a “social club” atmosphere. The rooftop bar, Lamplighters, provides some of the best views of the city, while the restaurant, The Spence, is located in a stunning glass-domed banking hall. It is worth visiting for its blend of old-world grandeur and high-energy, modern luxury.
The Witchery
Located at the very top of the Royal Mile, just steps from the gates of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is perhaps the most atmospheric hotel in the UK. It is a collection of nine suites, each more theatrical than the last, featuring four-poster beds, velvet-draped walls, and roll-top baths for two.
Why it’s worth visiting: This is not just a hotel; it is an immersive historical experience. It captures the dark, romantic essence of the Old Town. If you are celebrating a honeymoon or an anniversary, the candlelit dining room—with its 16th-century oak paneling—offers a sense of intimacy that modern hotels simply cannot replicate.
House of Gods
Situated in the Cowgate, House of Gods rejects the “less is more” philosophy. This boutique hotel is a riot of leopard print, heavy velvets, and gilded mirrors. It draws inspiration from the legendary rock-and-roll hotels of the past.
Why it’s worth visiting: It is the perfect choice for the hedonistic traveler. Every room comes with a “treat me like a god” butler service, and the cocktail bar is one of the coolest spots in the city. It is worth visiting because it offers a fun, cheeky alternative to the city’s more traditional, buttoned-up establishments.
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal
Finding affordable accommodation in a city as popular as Edinburgh can be a challenge, but the German chain Motel One has mastered the art of “budget-chic.” Their Royal Mile location puts you in the heart of the action without the premium price tag.
Why it’s worth visiting: Despite the low price, the design feels premium. The “One Lounge” is decorated with turquoise accents and local photography, providing a stylish space to work or relax. It is worth visiting because it proves that you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics or a central location to stay within a budget.
Eden Locke
Located on George Street in the New Town, Eden Locke offers a hybrid between a boutique hotel and a luxury apartment. The rooms are “studios” featuring fully equipped kitchens and L-shaped sofas, all decorated in a calming palette of pastels and blond wood.
Why it’s worth visiting: It is ideal for longer stays or for travelers who prefer a bit of independence. The ground floor houses a vibrant coffee shop and bar that is popular with locals, making you feel more like a resident than a tourist. The high ceilings and massive windows typical of Georgian architecture make even the smallest rooms feel airy and grand.
