Top reasons to visit Edinburgh
- Historic Edinburgh Castle: A must-visit landmark offering breathtaking views and rich history, showcasing Scotland's royal heritage.
- Charming Old Town: Wander through cobbled streets filled with shops and delightful cafes, steeped in centuries of culture.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy world-class theatre performances and vibrant festivals that celebrate Edinburgh’s artistic spirit.
- Beautiful Neighbourhoods: Discover friendly areas perfect for family outings or romantic strolls, enhancing your city exploration.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of welcoming hotels and guesthouses tailored to various preferences and needs.
Find great hotels in Edinburgh
Experience the charm of Edinburgh with a variety of accommodation options, from welcoming hotels to delightful guesthouses. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly facilities, business amenities, or an LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere, you'll find the perfect stay to suit your needs. Explore top-rated hotels and read reviews to ensure a memorable visit to this historic city.
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Situated in the vibrant Grassmarket area, the 4-star Apex Grassmarket Hotel offers a charming blend of modern comfort and historical allure. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0, this eco-certified hotel is ideal for business travellers and those seeking an environmentally friendly vacation. Guests can enjoy stylishly appointed rooms with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, as well as amenities that include a fitness centre and an on-site restaurant serving locally sourced dishes. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability adds an extra layer of appeal for eco-conscious visitors.
- ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: The 3-star ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile stands out with its pet-friendly policy and eco-certification, receiving a guest rating of 8.4. Located conveniently close to the historic Royal Mile, this hotel caters to both leisure and business travellers. Guests appreciate the comfortable rooms, modern decor, and essential amenities, including a 24-hour snack bar. The hotel also provides thoughtful pet amenities, ensuring that your furry companions are well cared for during your stay.
- Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Overlooking the iconic Calton Hill, the 4-star Apex Waterloo Place Hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.2. This eco-certified establishment is perfect for families and those looking for a spa-themed retreat. The hotel features a luxurious full-service spa, complete with a swimming pool, and offers various treatments, including prenatal massages. Families will appreciate the dedicated services for children, including breakfast options tailored for younger guests, making it a delightful choice for those travelling with little ones.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, offers a delightful blend of culture and warmth. Explore the enchanting Edinburgh City Centre and the charming Old Town, where cobbled streets lead you through centuries of heritage. Just a short walk away, discover friendly neighbourhoods perfect for family-friendly outings or romantic escapes. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or immersing yourself in the city's rich atmosphere, Edinburgh and its surroundings promise an unforgettable experience.
- Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is a captivating neighbourhood that showcases the city's rich heritage. With its medieval streets and stunning architecture, this area exudes charm at every turn. Visitors flock here for immersive cultural experiences, from exploring the Royal Mile to visiting the historic Edinburgh Castle. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by an array of shops, theatres, and educational venues, making it an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to wander through its cobbled streets, where every corner reveals a fascinating landmark or event space.
- Edinburgh City Centre: The heart of the city, Edinburgh City Centre is a bustling hub of activity and culture. This vibrant neighbourhood offers a fantastic blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, perfect for families and city explorers. Key attractions include the iconic Princes Street, renowned for its shopping, and a variety of theatres that host world-class performances. The city centre is home to significant historic sites and symbolic landmarks, making it a must-visit for anyone keen to experience Edinburgh's cultural richness. With visitor numbers peaking during the summer months, the energy here is palpable, inviting you to delve into the city's lively atmosphere.
- New Town: A striking contrast to Old Town, New Town is characterised by its elegant Georgian architecture and wide boulevards. This neighbourhood is a delightful destination for families and culture enthusiasts, offering a range of shopping areas and theatres. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along its historic streets, taking in the beauty of iconic landmarks. With a lively arts scene and numerous shopping centres, New Town provides a modern yet historically rich experience. The area is particularly popular in the spring and autumn, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore Edinburgh's unique blend of old and new.
Things to do near Edinburgh
Shopping
Discover Edinburgh's St James Quarter, a modern shopping hub with a mix of high street brands and unique boutiques. For a local touch, visit the Grassmarket, where you can find charming shops and artisan stalls, perfect for picking up Scottish gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
The Zen Wellness Centre offers calming yoga sessions and rejuvenating spa treatments, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. For nature enthusiasts, the Water of Leith Walkway provides scenic riverside walks, rich in wildlife and tranquillity, ideal for unwinding and connecting with the natural surroundings of Edinburgh.
Adventure
Knockhill Racing Circuit offers exhilarating motor racing experiences located 27km from Edinburgh. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch thrilling races or participate in driving experiences, all set against a backdrop of stunning Scottish landscapes, providing an exciting day out for motorsport enthusiasts.
Nightlife
Edinburgh's nightlife is vibrant, with lively spots like the Bongo Club for dancing and eclectic music. For a relaxed evening, the Bow Bar offers a selection of local ales in a charming setting. Alternatively, explore the atmospheric pubs on Grassmarket, perfect for mingling with locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh
Edinburgh provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and Grassmarket, while public transport options such as buses and trams are budget-friendly. The best time to visit is from January to March when accommodation prices drop, especially if booked about a month in advance. Take advantage of Expedia's last-minute deals, particularly on Tuesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings, and always sort offers by price to uncover the best bargains.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Edinburgh are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Edinburgh about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can cut costs by combining your Edinburgh hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a fantastic destination for cultural, family, and city-themed vacations, offering a wealth of attractions such as its historic castle, vibrant streets, and nearby beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences. Key points of interest include the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the rich heritage of the area, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views of the city and a rich tapestry of Scottish history. Explore its ancient walls and discover the Stone of Destiny, once used in the coronation of Scottish kings, amidst an atmosphere steeped in romance and culture.
- Royal Mile: This historic thoroughfare stretches through the heart of Edinburgh, connecting the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with charming shops, restaurants, and street performers, immersing yourself in the vibrant city vibes that echo centuries of history.
- Grassmarket: A lively area that once hosted medieval markets, Grassmarket is now a hub for family-friendly activities and outdoor dining. With its picturesque views of the castle and an array of pubs and eateries, it’s an inviting space to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Best time to go to Edinburgh
The best time to visit Edinburgh is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.