To find the best place to stay in Edinburgh, consider the city's unique neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character and advantages, with top areas including the Old Town, New Town, Leith, Stockbridge, and Haymarket.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top 5-7 areas/neighborhoods:
Old Town (Edinburgh)
Best For: History buffs / backpackers / families
Vibe: The Old Town is Edinburgh's historic heart, with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and a lively atmosphere, featuring the famous Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the National Museum of Scotland. The area is vibrant, with many shops, restaurants, and bars, but can be crowded during peak season.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Central location, historic landmarks, lively atmosphere, and a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The area is also well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to explore the city.
Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, especially during festivals and peak season, and some areas can be quite steep and hilly.
New Town (Edinburgh)
Best For: Luxury travelers / business travelers / shoppers
Vibe: The New Town is a Georgian neighborhood with beautiful architecture, upscale shops, and fine dining restaurants, offering a more refined and elegant atmosphere, with wide streets and picturesque gardens. The area is also home to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Elegant atmosphere, upscale amenities, and a wide range of high-end shops and restaurants. The area is also well-connected to public transportation and is within walking distance to many of Edinburgh's main attractions.
Cons: Can be quite expensive, and some areas can feel a bit formal and less lively than the Old Town.
Leith (Edinburgh)
Best For: Families / foodies / waterfront lovers
Vibe: Leith is a former port area turned trendy neighborhood, with a mix of old and new buildings, a vibrant waterfront, and a thriving food scene, featuring many restaurants, bars, and cafes. The area is also home to the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Ocean Terminal shopping center.
Price Range: $60-150/night
Pros: Waterfront location, vibrant food scene, and a more laid-back atmosphere, with a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury hotels. The area is also well-connected to public transportation and is within walking distance to many of Edinburgh's main attractions.
Cons: Can be a bit far from the city center, and some areas can feel a bit rough around the edges.
Stockbridge (Edinburgh)
Best For: Families / nature lovers / those seeking a local experience
Vibe: Stockbridge is a charming neighborhood with a village-like atmosphere, featuring beautiful parks, a weekly market, and a range of independent shops and cafes, offering a more relaxed and local experience. The area is also home to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the Water of Leith Walkway.
Price Range: $40-100/night
Pros: Charming atmosphere, beautiful parks, and a range of local amenities, with a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury apartments. The area is also well-connected to public transportation and is within walking distance to many of Edinburgh's main attractions.
Cons: Can be a bit far from the city center, and some areas can feel a bit quiet and residential.
Haymarket (Edinburgh)
Best For: Business travelers / those seeking a convenient location
Vibe: Haymarket is a modern neighborhood with a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a convenient and practical location, with easy access to the city center and the airport. The area is also home to the Haymarket Railway Station and the Murrayfield Stadium.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Convenient location, range of amenities, and easy access to public transportation, with a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments. The area is also within walking distance to many of Edinburgh's main attractions.
Cons: Can be a bit lacking in character, and some areas can feel a bit generic and chain-like.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $20-50 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and dorms, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $40-80 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run B&Bs, often with a personal touch and local knowledge |
| Hotels | $80-200 | Comfort/Business | Range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury, often with amenities like gyms and restaurants |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-300 | Experience | Unique, design-focused hotels, often with a high level of service and amenities |
| Resorts | $200-500 | Relaxation | Luxury hotels with extensive amenities, often located outside the city center |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $40-150 | Long stays/Families | Self-catering apartments, often with a more home-like atmosphere and flexibility |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August) and festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
- Use online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or B&B for a more personal and local experience.
- Negotiate prices, especially for longer stays or off-season bookings.
- Be aware of seasonal pricing, with prices tend to be higher during peak season and lower during the off-season.
- Read reviews and check the location before booking to ensure it meets your needs.
- Consider booking a hotel or accommodation with a free cancellation policy in case your plans change.
Safety & Location Tips
- Be aware of pickpocketing and petty crime in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and Princes Street.
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas and public transportation.
- Consider staying in a central location, with easy access to public transportation and amenities.
- Be mindful of the city's hills and stairs, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Take advantage of the city's hop-on hop-off bus tour to get a feel for the city and its neighborhoods before deciding where to stay.