Last updated: July 2026

Scotland — 12 Hotels Reviewed

Best Hotels in
Edinburgh

Q: How much does a hotel in Edinburgh (2026) cost per night?

Hotel prices in Edinburgh (2026) vary significantly by season and category. Budget hotels typically start from $50-80/night, mid-range options run $120-250/night, and luxury properties range from $300-800+/night. Booking 2-3 months in advance and travelling in shoulder season usually yields the best value. See our budget and luxury guides for specific recommendations.

Q: When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The ideal time to visit Edinburgh (2026) depends on your priorities. Peak season offers the best weather but higher prices and crowds. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) typically provide the best balance of pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and better hotel rates. Check our detailed best-time-to-visit guide for month-by-month recommendations.

Q: How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

Most visitors find 3-5 days ideal for Edinburgh (2026), giving enough time to see the major highlights without rushing. A long weekend (3 days) covers the essentials, while a week allows you to explore neighbourhoods at a slower pace, enjoy local dining, and take day trips. Our city guide covers the must-see attractions to help you plan.

Q: Should I book hotels in Edinburgh (2026) in advance?

Yes, advance booking is recommended for Edinburgh (2026), especially during peak travel season and around major events or holidays. Booking 6-8 weeks ahead typically gives you the best selection at competitive rates. Last-minute deals exist but are unpredictable, particularly for popular boutique and luxury properties.

Edinburgh is a city built on drama — literally, across volcanic hills and medieval closes that tumble from the Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Old Town delivers history by the cobblestone, the New Town offers Georgian refinement, and Leith brings a portside creative edge.

★ Our top pick

The Balmoral

★ 9.5 Exceptional · $$$$ · Princes Street

Check availability

Quick Answer

Top Hotels in Edinburgh — 2026

1. The Balmoral · Princes Street · ★ 9.5 Exceptional
2. The Dunstane Houses · West End · ★ 9.4 Superb
3. Prestonfield House · Prestonfield · ★ 9.3 Superb
4. Fingal Hotel · Leith · ★ 9.3 Superb
5. The Witchery by the Castle · Royal Mile · ★ 9.2 Superb

12 hotels reviewed · 33 in-depth guides · Last updated July 2026

Our top 12 picks

Ranked by overall score. Updated July 2026.

1 $$$$

★ 9.5 Exceptional

Princes Street

The Balmoral

A standout property in Princes Street offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Princes Street
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.5 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

2 $$$

★ 9.4 Superb

West End

The Dunstane Houses

A standout property in West End offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

West End
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.4 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

3 $$$$

★ 9.3 Superb

Prestonfield

Prestonfield House

A standout property in Prestonfield offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Prestonfield
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.3 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

4 $$$$

★ 9.3 Superb

Leith

Fingal Hotel

A standout property in Leith offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Leith
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.3 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

5 $$$$

★ 9.2 Superb

Royal Mile

The Witchery by the Castle

A standout property in Royal Mile offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Royal Mile
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.2 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

6 $$$

★ 9.1 Superb

Calton Hill

The Glasshouse

A standout property in Calton Hill offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Calton Hill
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.1 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

7 $$$

★ 9.0 Superb

New Town

Kimpton Charlotte Square

A standout property in New Town offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

New Town
Value

Check Availability

★ 9.0 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

8 $$$

★ 8.9 Excellent

Old Town

Hotel du Vin Edinburgh

A standout property in Old Town offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Old Town
Value

Check Availability

★ 8.9 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

9 $$$

★ 8.8 Excellent

George Street

The Principal Edinburgh

A standout property in George Street offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

George Street
Value

Check Availability

★ 8.8 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

10 $$

★ 8.7 Excellent

New Town — George Street

Eden Locke

A standout property in New Town — George Street offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

New Town
Value

Check Availability

★ 8.7 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

11 $$

★ 8.5 Very Good

Grassmarket

Grassmarket Hotel

A standout property in Grassmarket offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Grassmarket
Value

Check Availability

★ 8.5 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

12 $

★ 8.3 Very Good

Royal Mile

CoDE Pod Hostel

A standout property in Royal Mile offering an exceptional Edinburgh experience.

Royal Mile
Value

Check Availability

★ 8.3 Hotelier's Choice score, 40+ criteria · Many rooms include free cancellation

By Neighborhood

Edinburgh Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood

Best Hotels in Edinburgh City Centre 2026

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Neighborhood

Best Hotels in Edinburgh New Town

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Neighborhood

Best Hotels in Edinburgh Old Town

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Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.

View All Edinburgh Hotels

12 hotels in Edinburgh

From $$$$

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about staying in Edinburgh

What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh?

The best area depends on your travel style. For first-time visitors to Edinburgh, the city centre offers the most convenient base with easy access to major attractions. Couples often prefer boutique-rich neighbourhoods, while families benefit from areas with parks and quieter streets. Browse our Edinburgh neighbourhood guides for detailed recommendations.

How much does a hotel in Edinburgh cost per night?

Hotel prices in Edinburgh vary significantly by season and category. Budget hotels typically start from $50-80/night, mid-range options run $120-250/night, and luxury properties range from $300-800+/night. Booking 2-3 months in advance and travelling in shoulder season usually yields the best value. See our budget and luxury guides for specific recommendations.

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The ideal time to visit Edinburgh depends on your priorities. Peak season offers the best weather but higher prices and crowds. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) typically provide the best balance of pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and better hotel rates. Check our detailed best-time-to-visit guide for month-by-month recommendations.

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

Most visitors find 3-5 days ideal for Edinburgh, giving enough time to see the major highlights without rushing. A long weekend (3 days) covers the essentials, while a week allows you to explore neighbourhoods at a slower pace, enjoy local dining, and take day trips. Our city guide covers the must-see attractions to help you plan.

Should I book hotels in Edinburgh in advance?

Yes, advance booking is recommended for Edinburgh, especially during peak travel season and around major events or holidays. Booking 6-8 weeks ahead typically gives you the best selection at competitive rates. Last-minute deals exist but are unpredictable, particularly for popular boutique and luxury properties.

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Traveling on a budget?

Best-rated Edinburgh hotels:Under $150 Under $300 Under $500

Best Hotels in Edinburgh

Top Hotels in Edinburgh — 2026

Our top 12 picks

The Balmoral

The Dunstane Houses

Prestonfield House

Fingal Hotel

The Witchery by the Castle

The Glasshouse

Kimpton Charlotte Square

Hotel du Vin Edinburgh

The Principal Edinburgh

Eden Locke

Grassmarket Hotel

CoDE Pod Hostel

Edinburgh Neighborhood Guides

Best Hotels in Edinburgh City Centre 2026

Best Hotels in Edinburgh New Town

Best Hotels in Edinburgh Old Town

More Edinburgh Guides

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Best Airport Hotels in Edinburgh (2026)

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Best Boutique Hotels in Edinburgh

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Heading to Edinburgh?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh?

How much does a hotel in Edinburgh cost per night?

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

Should I book hotels in Edinburgh in advance?

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Best Hotels in
Edinburgh