Top reasons to visit Edinburgh
- Historic Edinburgh Castle: A must-visit landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's royal history.
- Charming Old Town: Wander through the cobbled streets filled with unique shops, cafes, and rich history.
- Cultural Attractions: Enjoy captivating theatre performances and educational museums that showcase Edinburgh's vibrant arts scene.
- Scenic Outdoor Experiences: Explore picturesque parks and nearby beaches for a relaxing break from the bustling city.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of welcoming hotels and guesthouses suited for all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in Edinburgh
Discover a delightful range of accommodation options in Edinburgh, catering to every traveller's preferences. From charming guesthouses to modern hotels, you’ll find pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-welcoming establishments that ensure a memorable stay. With a variety of amenities and services tailored for business and leisure, Edinburgh hotels offer the perfect base for exploring this historic city. Read reviews to find the top hotels that meet your needs for a fantastic holiday experience.
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel: The Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a distinguished 4-star accommodation that caters to eco-conscious travellers and business guests alike. Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this hotel boasts stunning views of the historic Grassmarket area. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it provides a comfortable and stylish setting, complemented by modern amenities. Guests can enjoy eco-certified initiatives, ensuring a sustainable stay, while the hotel's professional staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience.
- ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: This inviting 3-star hotel features a pet-friendly environment and eco-certification, making it an excellent choice for animal lovers and environmentally-aware guests. Located conveniently in Edinburgh, the ibis South Bridge offers a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. Amenities include food and water bowls for pets, alongside a comfortable atmosphere that blends contemporary style with affordability. The hotel’s prime location allows easy access to the Royal Mile, ensuring a vibrant experience of the city.
- Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Boasting a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel stands out with its elegant design and family-friendly features. This 4-star hotel is ideally situated near Edinburgh’s key attractions, making it perfect for families and business travellers alike. Eco-certified, it offers a range of amenities for children, including breakfast options tailored for younger guests. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability combined with its sophisticated atmosphere makes it a top choice for discerning visitors.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh offers a captivating blend of history and culture, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Explore the vibrant city centre, where charming streets lead to the historic Edinburgh Old Town, or take a leisurely weekend getaway to nearby areas. The welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly attractions make it perfect for all ages, while the romantic spots add a special touch for couples. Within just a few minutes' walk, you can discover the essence of this enchanting city and its surroundings.
- Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is the heart of the city, featuring a labyrinth of cobbled streets and medieval architecture. This neighbourhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors year-round, with peaks in April and summer months. Here, you can immerse yourself in Scotland's rich cultural heritage, exploring historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a variety of shops, theatres, and eateries, making it ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to witness street performances or attend events at local conference venues.
- New Town: In contrast to the Old Town, New Town offers a taste of Georgian elegance with its wide streets and neoclassical architecture. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a hub for shopping and leisure, particularly bustling in the spring and summer months. Families and culture seekers will find plenty to explore, from the iconic Princes Street Gardens to various theatres and shopping centres. The area is dotted with symbolic landmarks and historic sites, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls and cultural experiences.
- Newbridge: Located just outside Edinburgh, Newbridge is an up-and-coming city that serves as a gateway to the surrounding countryside. While traveller arrivals peak during spring, the area is a delightful spot for family outings and cultural exploration throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy an array of entertainment at the local arena, alongside shopping and theatre options. With nearby historic landmarks and even a castle, Newbridge offers a unique blend of urban convenience and historical charm, making it a lovely addition to your itinerary.
Things to do near Edinburgh
Shopping
In the heart of Edinburgh, you'll discover the historic Grassmarket, brimming with unique boutiques and artisan shops. Nearby, the St James Quarter offers a modern retail experience with a mix of high-street brands and local designers, perfect for finding memorable gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
In Edinburgh, the One Spa at the Sheraton offers a serene experience with its rooftop hydropool and extensive treatment menu. Nearby, the Spa at the Balmoral features luxurious treatments and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation after exploring the city’s rich heritage.
Adventure
Knockhill Racing Circuit offers an exhilarating motor racing experience located 27.4km from Edinburgh. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch thrilling races or even take part in driving experiences, surrounded by the stunning Scottish countryside and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of motorsport adventure.
Nightlife
Experience the lively atmosphere of Edinburgh's nightlife with a visit to the Bongo Club for eclectic music and DJ sets. For a traditional pub experience, enjoy a pint at the Greyfriars Bobby Bar, where the charm of the city comes alive in the evenings.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh
Edinburgh offers numerous ways to save money while exploring the city. Enjoy free attractions like Princes Street, the Royal Mile, and George Street. For transport, consider using buses and trams, which are cost-effective options. The best time to visit for lower prices is from January to March, with Tuesdays being the cheapest nights to stay. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, where you can combine flights and hotels for better rates. Always utilise price filters to find the best offers tailored to your budget.
- 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: Booking a hotel in Edinburgh about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- 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 customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel accommodation in Edinburgh with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is an ideal destination for cultural, family, and city-themed holidays, offering a wealth of attractions including iconic castles, vibrant streets, and picturesque beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying outdoor experiences. Key points of interest include the historic Edinburgh Castle and the charming streets that embody the city’s spirit, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in Scotland.
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers a glimpse into Scotland's rich history. Explore its ancient stone walls, discover the Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city that exude a sense of 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, traditional pubs, and street performers, immersing yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere.
- Calton Hill: A short walk from the city centre, Calton Hill provides stunning scenery and a peaceful retreat. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views of Edinburgh and its landmarks, while enjoying the tranquil outdoor setting.
Best time to go to Edinburgh
The best time to visit Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh
Arriving in EDInburgh is convenient with its main airport, Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 11.3km from the city centre. Nearby hotel options iNCLude the 5.5-star Crescent House and the luxurious 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both situated 11.3km from EDI. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh is another excellent choice, located 9.7km away. For those considering GLAsgow, Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 77.2km from Edinburgh, with top hotels like the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland and the 5-star Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both offering easy access to the airport. Newcastle International Airport (NCL), 138.4km away, is also accessible from several 4-star hotels nearby.