Hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh Castle

• Rich Historical Significance: Edinburgh Castle boasts a fascinating history, serving as a royal residence and military stronghold.
• Stunning Views: The castle's elevated position offers breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage in captivating art exhibitions, theatre performances, and vibrant festivals nearby.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Explore interactive experiences suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable visit for families.
• Convenient Location: Centrally situated, the castle provides easy access to numerous attractions and accommodations.

Find great hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Immerse yourself in the charm of Edinburgh with a selection of hotels that cater to every traveller's needs, from business stays to pet-friendly options. Whether you prefer a welcoming guesthouse or a luxurious castle hotel, you'll find accommodations that prioritise LGBTQIA inclusivity and comfort. With many hotels conveniently located near the iconic Edinburgh Castle, you're perfectly positioned to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers a contemporary and eco-conscious experience, tailored for travellers seeking both comfort and sustainability. Located a mere 322m from Edinburgh Castle, its prime setting allows easy access to historic attractions. Guests appreciate the stylish décor and modern amenities, including a fitness centre and on-site dining options that feature locally sourced ingredients. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel embodies a blend of business efficiency and eco-friendly practices, ensuring a pleasant stay for those prioritising both work and leisure.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: Situated 805m from Edinburgh Castle, this 3-star hotel is a pet-friendly haven, perfect for animal lovers looking to explore the city with their furry companions. With a guest rating of 8.4, it combines modern comfort with eco-certification, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious travellers. The hotel features essential amenities, including food and water bowls for pets, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. Its vibrant location near the Royal Mile offers a plethora of dining and entertainment options, making it a practical base for your Edinburgh adventure.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: A luxurious 4-star establishment located 1.1km from Edinburgh Castle, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is ideal for families and business travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and convenience. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.2, the hotel boasts a full-service spa and an accessible pool, offering treatments such as massages and body wraps for ultimate rejuvenation. Families will appreciate child-friendly amenities, including breakfast options tailored for younger guests. This hotel’s elegant design and well-appointed facilities create a sophisticated retreat just steps away from the city's attractions.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle offers an unforgettable travel experience steeped in history and surrounded by friendly locals. Nestled in a central location, it provides easy access to numerous attractions, making it ideal for families, couples, and business travellers alike. Explore the vibrant city of Edinburgh, where historical sites blend seamlessly with a warm atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay filled with rich culture and charming encounters.

• Edinburgh: Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city attracts visitors year-round, with peak months from July to September. The travel experience here caters to those seeking cultural insights, family-friendly activities, and urban exploration. Stroll through the bustling shopping areas, enjoy the rich theatre scene, and visit historic landmarks that narrate the city's storied past. With its charming streets and captivating architecture, Edinburgh offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is a historic neighbourhood that showcases the city's medieval roots. Home to Edinburgh Castle, this area is a hub of cultural and family-themed experiences. Visitors flock here mainly between April and July, exploring its winding cobbled streets and historic sites. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by numerous shops, educational venues, and theatres. Events and conferences are often held in this dynamic area, making it a lively spot to immerse oneself in local culture and history.
• New Town: Just a short distance from Edinburgh Castle, New Town is an elegant neighbourhood characterised by Georgian architecture and lush gardens. With its peak visitor times in April, July, and September, it's an attractive destination for families, culture enthusiasts, and city explorers alike. New Town boasts a range of shopping areas, theatres, and shopping centres, offering a modern contrast to the historic Old Town. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through its picturesque streets while discovering symbolic landmarks that reflect Edinburgh's rich heritage.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Shopping

At Edinburgh Castle, you’ll find a charming gift shop offering Scottish souvenirs like tartan scarves and whisky. If you're up for a drive, head to the St James Quarter, a vibrant shopping centre featuring a mix of high street brands and unique boutiques.

Recreation

At Edinburgh Castle, immerse yourself in history while enjoying guided mindfulness walks through its ancient grounds. Participate in yoga sessions that blend relaxation with stunning views of the city, or explore the serene gardens for a peaceful retreat amidst the castle's captivating atmosphere.

Adventure

At Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 27.4km from Edinburgh Castle, thrill-seekers can experience high-speed motor racing. Feel the adrenaline as you take part in driving experiences or watch exhilarating races, all set against the backdrop of Scotland's stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Edinburgh Castle offers a unique evening atmosphere with its stunning views and historical backdrop. Nearby, venues like The Bongo Club provide eclectic nightlife experiences, while The Liquid Room hosts live music events, ensuring a vibrant evening filled with culture and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh Castle

When planning your visit to Edinburgh Castle, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Tuesdays typically offer the best hotel rates, while Saturdays are the priciest. Book your stay about a month in advance, and check Expedia for last-minute deals and discounts. You can also save by combining hotel bookings with flights and activities through package deals. Additionally, explore free attractions around the castle and utilise public transport for budget-friendly travel options while enjoying the city.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edinburgh Castle 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Edinburgh Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservation for Edinburgh Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Edinburgh Castle

While visiting Edinburgh Castle, explore the iconic gates and immerse yourself in the rich culture at nearby museums and galleries. Family-friendly experiences await, with options for comfortable Edinburgh Castle apartments. Don't miss the opportunity to see some of the best castles in Scotland while enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere surrounding this historic site.

• Princes Street: A vibrant thoroughfare, Princes Street offers a lively atmosphere with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Here, you can explore a diverse range of shops, cafes, and gardens, perfect for soaking in the city's urban charm.
• St. Giles' Cathedral: This iconic cathedral, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history, showcases intricate stained glass windows and impressive stone carvings. A visit provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Scotland.
• Real Mary King's Close: Step below the bustling streets to discover a hidden world of Edinburgh's past. This historic site reveals the stories and lives of those who once inhabited the city, offering a unique perspective on its rich history.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Castle

The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle 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 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	Average	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	Slightly High	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 Edinburgh Castle

Reaching EDInburgh Castle is convenient with Edinburgh Airport (EDI), situated 9.7km away. Recommended hotels nearby iNCLude the 5-star Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, only 9.7km from the airport, and the 5.5-star Crescent House, located 11.3km away. For those considering GLAsgow Airport (GLA), which is 77.2km from the castle, excellent options include the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland, just 6.4km away, and the Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, 11.3km from the airport. Newcastle Airport (NCL), located 138.4km away, offers hotels like Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead and Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, both 9.7km from the airport.