Like A Local Guide

Edinburgh

A medieval Old Town, elegant Georgian New Town and castle skyline

Browse Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital packs a medieval Old Town, an elegant Georgian New Town and a dramatic castle skyline into a compact, walkable city. Our local picks below cover the best things to do, eat and book – filter by category and budget to explore.

Edinburgh at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: late spring and early autumn
  • Highlights: the Castle, Royal Mile and Arthur's Seat
  • Where to stay: Old Town, New Town or the West End
  • Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
  • Getting around: a very walkable centre

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Compare live hotel prices on the map, then browse our hand-picked hotels by budget below. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Luxury

The Balmoral

Edinburgh's iconic Forbes Five-Star landmark above Waverley Station, with the famous clocktower, a spa and a celebrated afternoon tea.

Check prices & book
Gleneagles Townhouse

A chic, art-filled townhouse hotel in the city centre with a rooftop bar and service guests consistently rave about.

Check prices & book

Mid-range

The Resident Edinburgh

A smart, well-priced 4-star in the West End with high-spec rooms, big beds and skyline views.

Check prices & book
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

A dependable central mid-range hotel a short walk from Princes Street and the Old Town.

Check prices & book
Hotel du Vin Edinburgh

An Old Town hotel with a wine-and-whisky theme and plenty of character at mid-range prices.

Check prices & book

Budget

Motel One Edinburgh-Princes Street

Stylish, design-led budget rooms in a prime New Town spot across from Waverley Station.

Check prices & book
Eden Locke

Aparthotel studios on George Street offering excellent value, especially for multi-night stays.

Check prices & book
Hotel Ceilidh-Donia

A friendly, highly rated budget guesthouse known for its breakfasts, just south of the city centre.

Check prices & book
Prefer a self-catering flat or house? Browse Edinburgh rentals on Vrbo →

Timberyard

A destination restaurant in a converted warehouse with a strong sustainability focus, awarded a green Michelin star in 2025. Expect seasonal Scottish tasting menus; the lunch menu is a more affordable way in.
★ 4.6
View guide →

Before you go

Things we recommend sorting before any trip. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel medical insuranceSafetyWing's Nomad Insurance works like a subscription: pay by the month, cover in most countries worldwide, and you can sign up even after your trip has started.Check prices on SafetyWing
Data the moment you landAn Airalo eSIM gets your phone online in 200+ destinations before you even leave the airport - no SIM swap, no surprise roaming bill. Use code UNLIMITED4YOU for 15% off your first Unlimited eSIM (through Sept 30, 2026).Get an eSIM on Airalo

Book your trip to Edinburgh

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

Find hotels in EdinburghBook tours and experiences

Edinburgh travel FAQ

What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?

Top picks include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, climbing Arthur's Seat for the view, the Scotch Whisky Experience and an evening ghost or underground vaults tour.

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

Two to three days is enough to see the Old Town, the Castle and Arthur's Seat at a relaxed pace, with time for a Highlands day trip if you have longer.

What food is Edinburgh known for?

A strong modern-Scottish food scene, with several Michelin-starred restaurants, excellent seafood and beef, and traditional dishes like haggis alongside its many historic pubs.

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Late spring and early autumn bring the best balance of weather and crowds; August is buzzing but very busy thanks to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Scroll to Top