Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh

Top reasons to visit Old Town Edinburgh

• Iconic Landmarks: Visit Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Experience lively street life, friendly locals, and a bustling cultural scene.
• Family-friendly Activities: Enjoy engaging attractions and adventures suitable for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming guesthouses to modern hotels to suit all preferences.
• Enriching Day Trips: Embark on excursions to explore the stunning Scottish countryside and nearby attractions.

Find great hotels in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Old Town Edinburgh, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels tailored for both leisure and business travellers. This vibrant area welcomes all, including LGBTQIA guests and those travelling with pets. With an abundance of highly-rated hotels, you can find the perfect place to unwind after exploring the city's rich history and culture. Enjoy your stay in one of Edinburgh's top-rated hotels, where comfort meets convenience.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: The Apex Grassmarket Hotel stands out as a 4-star haven in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, boasting a guest rating of 9.0. This hotel is designed for eco-conscious travellers and business professionals alike, offering a blend of modern comfort with a commitment to sustainability. Guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere and contemporary amenities, including spacious rooms, a stylish restaurant, and a bar area that reflects the vibrant character of the Grassmarket area. With its eco-certification, it's an ideal choice for those seeking an environmentally friendly stay.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: Situated in a prime location, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile is a 3-star property that welcomes both guests and their furry companions. With a guest rating of 8.4, this eco-certified hotel combines comfort and convenience, featuring pet-friendly amenities and policies tailored for animal lovers. Travellers can enjoy well-appointed rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and easy access to nearby attractions, making it a great option for those looking to explore the local culture with their pets by their side.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Just a short stroll from Old Town Edinburgh, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is a luxurious 4-star accommodation with a guest rating of 9.2. This hotel is particularly suited for families and spa enthusiasts, offering a full range of services including a serene spa, sauna, and swimming pool. The eco-certified property ensures a sustainable experience while catering to the needs of younger guests with child-friendly amenities. With its elegant design and focus on relaxation, this hotel provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the historic city.

Where to stay near Old Town Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh is a treasure trove of history and culture, perfect for family vacations and city explorations. Strolling through the cobbled streets, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by friendly locals and a rich heritage, making it an inviting destination. Just a stone's throw away, explore the charming Edinburgh city centre, where romance and family-friendly adventures await at every turn.

• Edinburgh: As the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern culture. Old Town Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is at the heart of the city, offering cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and a plethora of cultural experiences. Visitors flock to Edinburgh year-round, with peak travel in the summer months when festivals abound. Must-see sites include the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, along with numerous theatres and shopping areas that cater to all tastes.
• New Town: Situated a mere 966m from Old Town Edinburgh, New Town is a stunning neighbourhood characterised by Georgian architecture and elegant streets. This area is particularly popular with families and culture enthusiasts, and it sees a surge in visitors during spring and early autumn. Attractions include the bustling shopping centres and theatres, as well as significant historical sites like St. Andrew Square. New Town is ideal for leisurely strolls, dining, and exploring the local art scene.
• Tollcross: Located 1.4km from Old Town Edinburgh, Tollcross is a lively neighbourhood known for its diverse community and vibrant atmosphere. This area attracts visitors year-round, especially during the summer months. Tollcross is home to an array of theatres and entertainment venues, making it a cultural hotspot. Notable attractions include the historic sites and the nearby symbolic landmarks, along with excellent shopping opportunities. Its close proximity to Old Town allows for easy exploration of both areas.

Things to do near Old Town Edinburgh

Shopping

In Old Town Edinburgh, visit the historic Grassmarket, known for its unique shops and local crafts. For a more extensive experience, head to the St James Quarter, a modern shopping mall featuring a mix of high street brands and independent retailers, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

The Flow Yoga Centre offers calming classes amidst tranquil surroundings, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with your body. Nearby, the Spa at the Kimpton Charlotte Square provides a range of treatments, from massages to facials, ensuring a soothing retreat after exploring the historic streets of Old Town Edinburgh.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 29.0km from Old Town Edinburgh. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate the challenging track, surrounded by breathtaking Scottish landscapes. It's an exhilarating way to embrace the adventurous spirit of the region.

Nightlife

In Old Town Edinburgh, The Bongo Club offers eclectic music and vibrant club nights, while The Liquid Room hosts an array of live performances. For a more relaxed vibe, head to The Scotch Whisky Experience, where you can enjoy tastings in a charming setting.

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 hotel prices drop. Book your stay around a month in advance or check Expedia's last-minute deals for better rates, particularly on Tuesdays, the cheapest day. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combining flights, hotels, and activities into a package deal can also lead to significant savings. Don’t forget to explore the many free attractions and use public transport to navigate the city economically.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Old Town Edinburgh is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some 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 and around Old Town Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh is a fantastic destination for city, culture, and family-themed vacations. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the charming old town area, and the nearby New Town. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street life, Old Town Edinburgh offers a delightful experience for all types of travellers seeking to immerse themselves in Scotland's history and charm.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle boasts a rich history and stunning views of the city. Explore its ancient halls, learn about Scottish heritage, and soak in the romantic atmosphere that surrounds this iconic fortress.
• Calton Hill: A short stroll from Old Town, Calton Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. The hill is dotted with impressive monuments and is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquillity amidst beautiful scenery.
• George Street: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, George Street is the heart of Edinburgh's city life. Lined with stylish shops, cafes, and restaurants, it provides a lively backdrop for leisurely strolls and socialising.

Best time to go to Old Town Edinburgh

The best time to visit Old Town Edinburgh 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	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 convenient with two major airports. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is situated 11.3km away, with excellent hotel options nearby such as Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both rated 5 stars. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa is also close, at 9.7km. GLAsgow International Airport (GLA) is located 78.9km from Old Town, offering luxurious accommodations like JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is 138.4km away, with hotels including Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead. Each airport provides various transport services for easy access to these hotels and the city.