Edinburgh is one of those cities that wears its history on its sleeve – and its charm in every cobbled street and leafy corner. Whether you’re after castle views, local vibes, or somewhere super central, this guide to where to stay in Edinburgh city centre breaks down the best neighbourhoods and hotels for every style of traveller.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger and part-time Edinburgh resident. I’ve stayed in just about every one of these areas – from atmospheric Old Town haunts to hidden gem guesthouses – and I can honestly say there’s no wrong choice. Each corner of the city has its own story to tell.
👉 Read next: Edinburgh Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Trip Companion.
Edinburgh Old Town 🏰
The beating heart of Edinburgh. All winding closes, Gothic spires, and the mighty Edinburgh Castle looming above the skyline.
Vibe: Historic, dramatic, full of character.
Stay here if: You want to be in the thick of it – with popular attractions like the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and spooky ghost tours right on your doorstep.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Witchery by the Castle: Luxe, lavish, and dripping in gothic romance.
🏨 Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh: Comfortable and super central, right on the Royal Mile.
🏨 The Scotsman Hotel: Iconic building, epic views, and old-school glamour.
Edinburgh New Town 🏛️
Georgian elegance and city sophistication. Wide boulevards, designer shops, and stylish bars.
Vibe: Classy, spacious, architectural eye-candy.
Stay here if: You want a polished experience with great shopping and cafes nearby.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Balmoral Hotel: Clock tower, spa, Michelin-starred dining… it’s the full five-star fantasy.
🏨 Hotel du Vin & Bistro Edinburgh: Boutique, bistro, and beautifully done.
🏨 Eden Locke: Trendy, design-forward, and great for longer stays.
Leith ⚓
Edinburgh’s waterfront neighbourhood – creative, multicultural, and foodie heaven.
Vibe: Local, edgy, full of personality.
Stay here if: You want to escape the tourist trail and soak up dockside vibes (and Scottish seafood!).
Hotel Picks:
🏨 Malmaison Edinburgh: Stylish warehouse vibes right on the water.
🏨 The Fingal Yacht Hotel: Yes, it’s a yacht hotel. Yes, it’s amazing.
🏨 Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Just up the hill, with easy access to both Leith and the city.
Bruntsfield & Morningside 🌳
Leafy, laid-back, and loved by locals. Think artisan cafes, bookshops, and dogs in Barbour jackets.
Vibe: Calm, cosy, and just a bit posh.
Stay here if: You like peace and parks but want to be 15 minutes from the city buzz.
These areas offer a quieter stay while still being within easy reach of Edinburgh’s main attractions. They’re ideal for those looking for a more laid-back experience with a touch of local life.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Bonham Hotel: Classy and quiet in a grand townhouse setting.
🏨 The Resident Edinburgh: West End bordering Bruntsfield, with spacious suites.
🏨 The Raeburn: Technically Stockbridge, but close enough. Stylish and serene.
Stockbridge 🛍️
Boho boutiques, Sunday markets, and arguably the prettiest street in Edinburgh (hi, Circus Lane).
Vibe: Independent, artsy, full of charm.
Stay here if: You love farmer’s markets, brunch spots, and riverside walks.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Raeburn: Boutique perfection in the heart of Stockbridge.
🏨 23 Mayfield: Intimate, lovely, and super welcoming.
West End 🎭
Theatre shows, Victorian terraces, and one of the city’s trendiest stretches of bars and cafes.
Vibe: Quietly cool, cultural, and a bit glam.
Stay here if: You want central-but-not-busy and great transport links.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Bonham Hotel: West End location, with luxe touches.
🏨 The Resident Edinburgh: Elegant, with townhouse charm.
🏨 Hotel du Vin & Bistro Edinburgh: A hip warehouse-style stay near the action.
Marchmont 🏘️
A studenty-meets-residential area, right beside the Meadows and buzzing with coffee shops and indie vibes.
Vibe: Low-key, local, great for longer stays.
Stay here if: You like a neighbourhood feel, and don’t mind a short walk into town.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Edinburgh Thistle Hotel: Classic and comfortable, with friendly vibes
🏨 The Marchmont Residence: Great for apartment-style stays.
Southside 🎓
Diverse, vibrant, and full of hidden gems. Think curry houses, vintage shops, and live music pubs.
Vibe: Eclectic, affordable, and full of student energy.
Stay here if: You want something a bit different and more local.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 The Salisbury Hotel: A chilled, comfortable stay.
🏨 The Southside Guest House: Cosy and characterful.
Map of Edinburgh Hotels 🗺️
Use the map below to explore hotel locations across Edinburgh. Zoom, scroll, or click through to Booking.com to compare prices and book (most with free cancellation!).
FAQs: Where to Stay in Edinburgh 💡
Planning your visit and still deciding where to stay? These answers might help:
What’s the best area to stay in Edinburgh for first-time visitors?
Old Town or New Town. You’ll be close to the main sights, restaurants, and public transport.
What’s the best hotel to stay in Edinburgh during Christmas time?
I have a whole guide on this: 🏨 Best Cosy Hotels & Festive Stays in Edinburgh.
What’s the most walkable area of Edinburgh?
Old Town and New Town are both super walkable – just expect hills and cobbles!
Where should I stay in Edinburgh for a local, non-touristy vibe?
Stockbridge or Bruntsfield are full of locals, parks, and cute cafes – ideal for slower stays.
Is Leith too far from the city centre?
Not at all! It’s just a 10–15 minute taxi or bus ride, and worth it for the foodie scene.
Where’s the best place in Edinburgh for nightlife?
Try the Cowgate (Old Town), George Street (New Town), or the West End for chic bars.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Edinburgh ✨
Edinburgh is one of those rare cities where every neighbourhood feels like its own little world. Whether you’re waking up to castle views in the Old Town, sipping flat whites in Stockbridge, or catching sunsets by the Leith docks, there’s a part of the city that’ll feel just right for you.
I’ve stayed across Edinburgh many times (for both work and fun), and this post brings together my genuine favourites – places I’d happily return to.
Wherever you end up staying, Edinburgh will get under your skin – in the best possible way.
Quick Travel Tips for Edinburgh🧳
🧥 Pack for all seasons – even in one day!
👟 Bring comfy shoes (there are stairs. So many stairs.)
🎟️ Book top attractions and restaurants in advance.
💷 Tipping isn’t required but appreciated (10% is fine)
🚶 Skip the car – walk or bus it. Parking is tough!
Related Reads You’ll Love 📚
🏨 Best Cosy Hotels & Festive Stays in Edinburgh.
🏰 Ultimate Edinburgh Travel Guide, Scotland.
🏴 Edinburgh in One Day: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary
🎭 Most Popular Things to Do in Edinburgh.
🌉 Things to Do in Dean Village, Edinburgh.
⚓ Things to Do in Newhaven, Edinburgh.
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Tags: Britain, Edinburgh, Europe, Scotland, UK
