Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh

Top reasons to visit Old Town Edinburgh

• Historic Edinburgh Castle: A must-visit, this iconic fortress offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich history.
• The Enchanting Royal Mile: Stroll along this historic thoroughfare, lined with charming shops, eateries, and street performers, embodying the city's vibrant culture.
• Fascinating Museums: Discover a range of museums showcasing Edinburgh's heritage, art, and science, perfect for family exploration.
• Stunning Architecture: Marvel at the impressive medieval buildings and unique architecture that define the Old Town's character.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Experience lively pubs, theatres, and local events that ensure an exciting evening atmosphere.

Find great hotels in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Discover the charm of Old Town Edinburgh, where a variety of accommodations await to suit every traveller's needs. From boutique hotels to welcoming guesthouses, options abound for both business and leisure stays. Enjoy pet-friendly facilities and LGBTQIA-inclusive environments, ensuring a comfortable and memorable visit. Explore top-rated hotels with glowing reviews, perfectly situated to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Situated in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a 4-star haven renowned for its eco-friendly practices, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travellers. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel offers modern, stylish accommodations and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Business travellers will appreciate the well-equipped conference facilities, while leisure guests can unwind in the chic bar or enjoy the onsite restaurant. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-certification, ensuring a responsible yet luxurious stay.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: This 3-star hotel is conveniently located near the Royal Mile, offering a vibrant atmosphere for pet-friendly travellers. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge features modern, comfortable rooms designed for relaxation after a day of exploring. Eco-certified and welcoming to pets, this hotel provides thoughtful amenities such as food and water bowls for furry companions. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast and 24-hour snacks at the bar, making it an ideal spot for those seeking convenience and comfort in the heart of the city.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Located a short distance of 322m from Old Town Edinburgh, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This 4-star property seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with family-friendly amenities. With its eco-certification, the hotel caters to environmentally aware guests while providing exceptional services for children, including specially priced breakfast options. The stylish rooms, fitness centre, and relaxing spa facilities ensure an enjoyable stay for business and leisure travellers alike.

Where to stay near Old Town Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh offers a captivating blend of history and culture, making it perfect for family vacations and city explorations. Stroll through cobbled streets, marvel at the stunning architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with friendly locals. Key highlights include the historic Edinburgh Castle and the enchanting Royal Mile, where you can experience the rich heritage of this charming city centre. Discover the warmth of Old Town Edinburgh and create unforgettable memories during your visit.

• Edinburgh: As the vibrant capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a bustling metropolis rich in history and culture. Old Town Edinburgh, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, beckons visitors to explore its historic charm. The city draws travellers year-round, particularly from July to September, when festivals and events brim with life. Edinburgh offers a plethora of cultural experiences, including world-class theatres and museums. Highlights include the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and various local shopping areas that provide a taste of Scottish heritage and craftsmanship.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located a mere 644m from Old Town, Edinburgh City Centre is a lively neighbourhood that encapsulates the essence of urban Scottish life. With a consistent influx of visitors, especially during the summer months, this area is a hub for culture and family-friendly activities. The City Centre boasts an array of theatres, shopping centres, and historic sites that cater to all interests. Don't miss the chance to wander along Princes Street, where stunning views of the castle and gardens create a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.
• New Town: Just 966m from Old Town, New Town is a stylish neighbourhood known for its elegant Georgian architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This area attracts visitors throughout the year, peaking in spring and autumn. Ideal for families and culture enthusiasts, New Town features an abundance of theatres, boutique shops, and inviting cafés. Key landmarks include the beautiful St. Andrew Square and the bustling George Street, making it a perfect spot to enjoy both shopping and local dining experiences while soaking in the rich history surrounding you.

Things to do near Old Town Edinburgh

Shopping

Discover the unique shops along the Royal Mile, where you can find traditional Scottish gifts and souvenirs. Don't miss the St James Quarter, a modern shopping destination offering a mix of high-street brands and local boutiques. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit Grassmarket, known for its eclectic market stalls.

Recreation

The Serenity Spa at the Balmoral Hotel offers a tranquil retreat with soothing treatments, including massages and facials. Alternatively, the Yoga Room on Grassmarket provides invigorating classes amidst historic surroundings, allowing you to connect with your inner peace while surrounded by Edinburgh’s rich heritage.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motorsport at Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 29km from Old Town Edinburgh. Feel the adrenaline as you take part in exhilarating driving experiences or watch exciting races, all set against a backdrop of stunning Scottish landscapes and vibrant adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Bongo Club, where eclectic DJs play until the early hours. For a more relaxed vibe, visit The Bow Bar to enjoy an impressive selection of ales. Don't miss out on the atmospheric atmosphere of The Liquid Room, known for its live gigs and events.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Town Edinburgh

To save money during your visit to Old Town Edinburgh, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Tuesdays typically offer the cheapest stays, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Utilise price filters to find budget-friendly options and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for additional savings. Also, take advantage of Edinburgh's free attractions and walkable streets to explore the city without spending much.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Town 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 around Old Town 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 around Old Town Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Town Edinburgh is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Old Town Edinburgh with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Old Town Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh offers a rich blend of cultural and city-themed experiences, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can explore its charming streets, fascinating museums, and iconic tourist precincts. Notable attractions include the historic Edinburgh Castle and the vibrant atmosphere of the old town area. This captivating destination caters to travellers seeking memorable cultural experiences, ensuring that your visit will be both enjoyable and enriching.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views of the city. This historic fortress is steeped in Scottish culture and romance, showcasing impressive architecture and royal history, including the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.
• Royal Mile: The Royal Mile is a vibrant thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic sites, it pulsates with city vibes, offering a delightful blend of street performances and local culture.
• Grassmarket: A lively area known for its outdoor atmosphere, Grassmarket features an array of pubs and eateries. This historic marketplace is perfect for families, showcasing local artisans and events, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Castle.

Best time to go to Old Town Edinburgh

The best time to visit Old Town Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Old Town Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Old Town Edinburgh falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Old Town Edinburgh

Flying into Old Town EDInburgh is easy with two major airports nearby. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 11km away, with excellent hotel options such as Crescent House, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, and the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, all offering convenient access to the airport. Alternatively, Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) is situated 101km from Old Town, with nearby hotels like Marine Troon and Lochgreen House Hotel, both just 3km away. Lastly, Dundee Airport (DND) is 56km away, with lovely accommodations such as The Hideaway Experience and Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa within a few miles, providing various transportation services to the airport.