Hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh Castle

• Historic Significance: Edinburgh Castle is a symbol of Scotland's rich history, offering stunning views and fascinating stories from its storied past.
• Cultural Experiences: The castle hosts vibrant art exhibitions and theatre performances that celebrate Scottish heritage.
• Explorer Pass Benefits: Visitors can utilise the Explorer Pass for access to numerous attractions, enhancing the overall experience.
• Charming Neighbourhood: The surrounding West End is full of gothic architecture, delightful streets, and local cuisine.
• Diverse Accommodations: A variety of hotels and guesthouses cater to all travellers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Discover a range of delightful accommodations near Edinburgh Castle, perfect for every type of traveller. From luxurious star-rated hotels to charming guesthouses, you'll find options that cater to business needs, pet-friendly policies, and an inclusive atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community. Enjoy the convenience of being close to one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks while indulging in exceptional hospitality that Edinburgh has to offer.

• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: This elegant 4-star hotel embodies a luxurious spa-themed experience, ideal for families and eco-friendly travellers alike. Situated 1.1km from Edinburgh Castle, it boasts an impressive array of wellness amenities, including a full-service spa featuring hot stone massages, body treatments, and manicure and pedicure services. The hotel’s eco-certification and family-friendly services make it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation without compromising on sustainability. Guests appreciate the accessible pool and treatment rooms, ensuring a rejuvenating stay in the heart of Edinburgh.
• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: A contemporary 4-star establishment, Apex Grassmarket Hotel is located a mere 322m from Edinburgh Castle, making it a prime location for both leisure and business travellers. This eco-certified property features dedicated business facilities, including multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre, catering to the needs of corporate guests. The hotel’s vibrant surroundings and commitment to sustainability create a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a blend of productivity and pleasure during their visit to Edinburgh.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: This charming 3-star hotel welcomes all, including LGBTQIA and pet-friendly travellers, while being eco-certified for environmentally conscious guests. Located 805m from Edinburgh Castle, the ibis Edinburgh Centre offers essential amenities such as food and water bowls for pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors with furry companions. Its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides and the warm atmosphere make it a popular choice for diverse guests looking for a budget-friendly yet accommodating experience in the heart of Edinburgh.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Castle

Staying near Edinburgh Castle offers a delightful blend of historical charm and friendly locals. Explore the enchanting West End, with its gothic heart and rich Scottish heritage, all within walking distance. The area is brimming with attractions, making it perfect for families, couples, and history enthusiasts alike. Whether wandering through cobbled streets or enjoying local cuisine, you'll discover the warm, inviting atmosphere that Edinburgh has to offer.

• Edinburgh: Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its rich history and cultural allure. As the home of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city attracts a diverse range of travellers year-round, with peak visitor numbers from July to September. Edinburgh offers an eclectic mix of experiences, from bustling shopping areas to enriching theatre performances. Notable local landmarks include historic streets and stunning castles that narrate the city's storied past. Visitors can enjoy a cultural journey, immersing themselves in both family-friendly activities and captivating city-themed explorations.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Nestled around the historic Edinburgh Castle, Old Town Edinburgh is a charming neighbourhood steeped in history. This area draws visitors primarily from April through July, offering a captivating blend of city-themed and cultural experiences. Explore its quaint streets filled with unique shops and educational venues, or indulge in the vibrant theatre scene. Old Town is dotted with fascinating landmarks, including historic buildings and event conference venues, making it an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
• New Town: Located a mere 805m from Edinburgh Castle, New Town is a stylish neighbourhood that perfectly complements the historical essence of the city. Popular among families and culture seekers, New Town sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in April, July, and September. The area boasts an array of shopping districts, theatres, and educational institutions. Its historic streets and event conference venues provide an engaging atmosphere, making it a delightful spot for leisurely explorations and cultural experiences.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Discover a wealth of activities near Edinburgh Castle, including vibrant art exhibitions, captivating theatre performances, and lively festivals that celebrate Scottish culture. Make the most of your visit with an Explorer Pass, which offers access to a variety of attractions and experiences in the area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Edinburgh. Enjoy your time exploring this iconic landmark and its surroundings.

Shopping

The nearest shop is The Hub, just 322m from Edinburgh Castle, offering unique gifts. The Tartan Weaving Mill, also 322m away, features traditional Scottish textiles. For more variety, Princes Mall is 644m away, boasting entertainment and family-friendly shopping options.

Recreation

At Murrayfield Stadium, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, perfect for invigorating your spirit. Meanwhile, Queen's Hall offers a delightful musical experience, where you can unwind and enjoy captivating performances in a vibrant setting. Meadowbank Stadium also invites you to embrace an active lifestyle with its dynamic sports environment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Skirmish Edinburgh Paintball, located 3.2km from the castle, where you can engage in exhilarating battles. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Midlothian Ski Centre, just 644m away, offers fantastic skiing opportunities. Alternatively, enjoy the adventure vibes at Bedlam Paintball, situated 1.1km from the castle.

Nightlife

In Edinburgh, the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions offers an exciting arcade atmosphere just 322m from the castle. For a more relaxed vibe, head to Greyfriar's Bobby, a charming pub 644m away, or enjoy a cultural evening at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, also 322m from the castle.

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

Edinburgh Castle offers a wealth of attractions for tourists, including historic streets, galleries, and nearby universities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying family-friendly experiences. For those planning their stay, it is advisable to look for hotels close to the castle for convenience and easy access to the myriad of sights and activities in the area.

• Princes Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Princes Street, renowned for its stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the nearby gardens. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with shops, cafes, and attractions, making it a perfect spot for shopping and people-watching.
• University of Edinburgh: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of one of the world's oldest universities. With its beautiful architecture and sprawling campus, you can explore the various museums and learn about the university's significant contributions to education and research.
• St. Giles' Cathedral: Discover the breathtaking beauty of St. Giles' Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Wander through its stunning interiors, admire the intricate stained glass windows, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this historic landmark.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Castle

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

Edinburgh is easily accessible via its major airport, Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 9.7km from Edinburgh Castle. Notable hotels nearby include the luxurious Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel, and InterContinental Edinburgh The George, all approximately 11.3km from the airport. Alternatively, Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 77.2km away, with excellent accommodation options such as Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both around 4 to 11.3km from GLA. Lastly, Dundee Airport (DND), situated 39.7km away, offers nearby stays like The Hideaway Experience and Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, providing convenient transport services to their respective airports.