Edinburgh remains a top destination for travelers, with hotel stays bouncing back close to pre-pandemic levels. According to Lichfields, a planning and development consultancy, hotel occupancy rates hit 74.22% in April 2022, showing strong demand for places to stay.
With more visitors expected in 2025, the city offers a great mix of hotels, from luxury stays to budget-friendly options. To help with your trip, here are some of the best hotels in Edinburgh for 2025.
We considered a range of factors in choosing the best hotels in Edinburgh, including guest reviews, amenities, location, and value for money. We also looked at unique offerings, such as historical significance, modern comforts, and proximity to major attractions.
The pricing information provided is based on average rates collated from hotel and booking websites. Since accommodation prices tend to be lower when booked well in advance, booking early can help secure better deals for a more affordable stay.
Edinburgh boasts a selection of high-end hotels that cater to travelers seeking premium accommodations. Here are 10 of the best hotels in Edinburgh for 2025:
Established in 1902, The Balmoral is an iconic five-star luxury hotel located at 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ where Edinburgh's Old Town meets the New Town. Renowned for its majestic clock tower, which runs three minutes fast to help guests catch their trains on time, the hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern elegance.
Amenities include a world-class spa, the 4 AA Rosette restaurant "Number One," and traditional afternoon tea at Palm Court. A 4 AA Rosette restaurant is recognized for its exceptional culinary standards, creativity, and consistency. The Balmoral is celebrated for its exceptional service and prime location, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a luxurious stay in Edinburgh.
Nestled near Edinburgh Castle at 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF, The Witchery by the Castle offers a unique and opulent experience with its nine lavishly decorated suites, each exuding gothic charm. Established in a historic building, this boutique hotel is famed for its rich tapestries, antique furnishings, and indulgent ambiance. Guests can enjoy fine dining in the atmospheric restaurant, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a romantic and distinctive stay.
Located at 38 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4HQ, this boutique hotel combines historic Georgian architecture with modern luxury. Part of the IHG chain, Kimpton Charlotte Square offers stylish rooms, a spa with various treatments, and multiple dining options, including Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine at Baba. Its central location provides easy access to the city's attractions, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Located at 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR, the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa offers 5-star luxury with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. As part of the Marriott International chain, the hotel features an iconic rooftop hydropool and a Thermal Suite offering uplifting water, salt, and heat experiences for ultimate relaxation. With its central location, this hotel is the perfect retreat after exploring the Royal Mile, where visitors can discover historic landmarks, charming cafés, and world-class shopping.
Located at 20 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1TR, this historic newspaper building turned luxury hotel seamlessly blends Edwardian grandeur with modern comfort. The Scotsman Hotel offers individually designed rooms with unique features, such as turreted spaces and wood-paneled walls. Amenities include a private cinema, a bar, and a brasserie serving Scottish cuisine. Its rich history and distinctive character make it a standout choice.
Located at 329 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1PN, Cheval Old Town Chambers offers luxury serviced apartments that combine contemporary design with historic elements. Each apartment is equipped with modern amenities, including a fully fitted kitchen, making it ideal for both short and extended stays. Its proximity to the Royal Mile and major attractions like Edinburgh Castle provides guests with a convenient and upscale accommodation experience.
Located at 1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2EX, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh brings a modern and vibrant atmosphere to the city's hotel scene. Opened in 2022, the hotel offers contemporary rooms equipped with the latest technology, multiple dining and drinking outlets, and a rooftop sanctuary with stunning city views. Its innovative design and lively ambiance cater to travelers seeking a fresh and dynamic experience.
Located at 19-21 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PB, this historic hotel comprises five Georgian townhouses dating back to the 18th century, showcasing elegant architecture and a rich heritage. A recent multimillion-dollar refurbishment has revitalized its grandeur, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern luxury.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as air-conditioned rooms equipped with flat-screen Smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, laptop safes, and luxury Byredo toiletries. The hotel also offers a fitness center, daily housekeeping, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Located at 6 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1DE, this contemporary boutique establishment seamlessly blends modern design with Edinburgh's historic charm. Opened in 2019, the hotel stands out for its innovative architecture and the rooftop Champagne lounge, Nor' Loft, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as smart TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, and rainfall showers, ensuring a comfortable and connected stay. Its proximity to major attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both style and convenience.
Located at Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB, this historic luxury hotel was established in 1903. It offers guests classic elegance combined with modern amenities. The hotel features luxurious spa treatments, multiple dining options, including Dean Banks at The Pompadour, and rooms with breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.
Its rich history and commitment to luxury make it a standout destination for discerning travelers. It’s a 10-minute walk from Princes Street Gardens, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh's Old Town.
For budget-conscious travelers, Edinburgh has plenty of affordable yet comfortable hotels. Here are three great options.
Located at 6 Hunter Square, Edinburgh EH1 1QW, this hotel offers modern accommodations in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Part of the ibis chain, it provides comfortable rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests appreciate its proximity to major attractions such as the Royal Mile, The Real Mary King’s Close, and the National Museum of Scotland, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking central lodging.
Located at 18-21 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1BL, this hotel combines affordability with style. The hotel features chic, well-designed rooms with modern amenities and is within walking distance to the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and Edinburgh Castle. Its central location and reasonable rates make it a popular choice among travelers.
Located at 139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS, this hotel offers a trendy and vibrant atmosphere, appealing to younger travelers and those young at heart. The rooms are modern and equipped with smart TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is a short stroll from the Royal Mile and other key attractions, making it both a convenient and affordable option.
For budget-conscious travelers, staying connected without high roaming charges is crucial. Travelers can easily purchase an eSIM online from various providers, download it to their phone, and activate it instantly, ensuring seamless connectivity upon arrival in Edinburgh.
An eSIM provides affordable mobile data, allowing you to book attractions, find restaurants, and explore Edinburgh with ease—no need to hunt for Wi-Fi spots or worry about switching SIM cards.
Choosing the right hotel in Edinburgh depends on your travel needs and preferences. If you want a luxurious experience with top-tier amenities and stunning castle views, hotels like The Balmoral or The Witchery by the Castle are excellent choices.
For travelers seeking a stylish yet affordable stay, Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa provides a balance of comfort and character.
Budget-conscious visitors will find central and well-equipped accommodations at ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile or Motel One Edinburgh-Royal.
No matter your preference, Edinburgh’s diverse range of accommodations ensures a memorable and comfortable stay.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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