Where to stay in Edinburgh

Visitors flock to Edinburgh Old Town to see the medieval architecture, sample the traditional Scotch whisky, and, of course, walk down the Royal Mile, the Old Town’s central street. Starting at Edinburgh Castle and running all the way to Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament, the entire Royal Mile is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A picturesque and conveniently central area, the Old Town is perfect for short stays.   

New Town is just a hop, skip and jump away from the Old Town. The New Town, as its name suggests, is more modern than its historical neighbour and features beautiful neo-classical and Georgian architecture, as well as luxury shops, fine dining restaurants and attractions such as the National Gallery of Scotland and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. It’s classy and sophisticated by day, but the New Town can also really turn it up after dark. Start your night with some sophisticated cocktails in any of the elegant bars or go for a good old-fashioned pub-crawl along Rose Street, a much-loved Edinburgh tradition. 

Located in the West End of Edinburgh, Haymarket is a charming residential area, a short bus or train ride away from the city centre. It’s the ideal spot to stay for a family trip as it’s nice and quiet, but it still has plenty of its own character. There are lots of good eateries that tend to be less touristy where you can find some authentic Scottish fare. It’s also quite international, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to some of Edinburgh’s best Indian, Chinese and Italian restaurants.    

South Side is a young and cosmopolitan area, home to Edinburgh University and a myriad of budget-friendly pubs, restaurants and shops. Party animals will want to base themselves within walking distance of the main Clerk Street for an easy walk home after a Scotch or two! If you’re in Edinburgh for the world-famous Fringe Festival, South Side is where all the action takes place. It’s also a great location as you’ll have a stunning view over the rugged Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park. 

You’ll feel like you’re in a quaint little Scottish village, but right in the heart of Edinburgh when you come to Stockbridge. Just north of the New Town, Stockbridge is an attractive waterfront area where affluent locals come to live. If you’re in town for a weekend, make sure you check out the Sunday farmer’s market, go for a wander in the Royal Botanic Gardens and get lost in the picturesque Dean Village, a 12th century oasis by the Water of Leith.

A bit further afield is Leith, Edinburgh’s old port city. Once an industrial wasteland, Leith has been transformed into a vibrant hotspot in recent years, popular with people of all ages. Seafood lovers will want to stay near the award-winning restaurants in the refurbished docklands, while accommodation along Leith Walk is a great halfway point between the city and the sea.