Picking where to stay in Edinburgh can really shape your trip. It’s a super walkable city, with lots of the main sights packed around the Old Town and New Town. If you choose the right area, you could be exploring castle walls in no time! In our blog, we’ll guide you through the best neighborhoods, from charming old streets to laid-back local spots, along with hotel suggestions for each one. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, on a budget, or just want to find the perfect spot for your vibe, you’ve come to the right place!
1. The New Town | Elegant and Central
Don’t be fooled by the name. The New Town dates back to the 18th century and it’s an absolute masterpiece of Georgian architecture. Think broad streets, grand squares, and stunning neoclassical buildings. This is where you’ll find George Street’s cocktail bars and Princes Street’s high-street shops, all wrapped in a polished, sophisticated atmosphere.
I recommend the New Town as the best area for most visitors. You’re central, you’re surrounded by beauty, and it’s genuinely quieter at night than the Old Town while still being completely walkable to everything.
- Perfect balance of central location without the overwhelming tourist crowds
- Stunning architecture and elegant streets make every walk feel special
- Excellent shopping district with both boutiques and familiar brands
- Easy walking distance to the Old Town, Castle, and major attractions
- Ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and anyone wanting a comfortable base
Hotel recommendations New Town
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh by IHG
A stylish mid-range hotel right on York Place. The design nods to Edinburgh’s literary heritage, and you’re a short walk from Princes Street and the Royal Mile.
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
An upscale boutique hotel tucked behind a historic church facade on Calton Hill. Contemporary design with views over the city, perfect if you want something special without full luxury price tags.
RÌGH Residences – George Street
Serviced apartments right on George Street. Good for longer stays or if you want a bit more space and a kitchen. Mid-range pricing with a great location.
2. The Old Town | Historic but Pricey
This is the Edinburgh you’ve seen in photos. Medieval streets, hidden courtyards, and that famous spine of the Royal Mile running from the Castle down to Holyroodhouse. The air here genuinely feels thick with history and the sound of bagpipes echoes off ancient stone.
Here’s my honest take: accommodations in the Old Town can be crazy expensive, and it’s busy even late at night. If you’ve got a big budget and want to be completely immersed in the historic epicentre, go for it. But most travellers will get better value and a better night’s sleep by staying in the New Town and walking here in five minutes.
- Right in the middle of the action and major attractions
- Walking distance to Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the National Museum
- Endless pubs, restaurants, and historic atmosphere
- Best for visitors with generous budgets who want total immersion
- Can be noisy at night and very touristy during peak season
Hotel recommendations Old Town
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
A solid mid-range chain hotel near the Royal Mile. Reliable, comfortable, and you can’t beat the location for sightseeing.
Fraser Suites Edinburgh
Serviced apartments on St Giles Street, right in the heart of the Old Town. Good for families or longer stays who want the location with a bit more space.
MONO Suites Old Town
Modern aparthotel on the Royal Mile. Compact but well-designed studios with kitchenettes. Mid-range option for the location.
ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile
Budget-friendly chain hotel on the Royal Mile. Basic but clean, and the location is unbeatable if you’re watching your pennies. One of the better options if you’re looking for where to stay in Edinburgh cheap without sacrificing location.
3. Stockbridge | The Urban Village
Walk 15 minutes downhill from the New Town and you’ll stumble into Stockbridge, which feels like a secret village tucked inside the city. Cobbled streets, the Water of Leith flowing through, and a collection of independent shops, charity shops, and cosy cafes that locals genuinely love.
The Sunday market here is fantastic for street food and local crafts. The Royal Botanic Garden is on your doorstep. And honestly, if you want to feel like you’re living in Edinburgh rather than just visiting, this is the spot.
- Charming, bohemian neighbourhood with a village atmosphere
- Less touristy with a genuine local feel
- Beautiful Royal Botanic Garden within walking distance
- Fantastic delis, cafes, and independent shops
- Perfect for repeat visitors, longer stays, or travellers who want to live like a local
Violet Bank Apartment New Town
Serviced apartment on the border of Stockbridge and New Town. Good value for the area with modern facilities and a residential feel.
The Raeburn
A boutique hotel in a Georgian townhouse right in the heart of Stockbridge. Mid-range pricing with bags of character and a fantastic pub downstairs.
Nira Caledonia
An elegant townhouse hotel near the Royal Botanic Garden. Upscale but not stuffy, with a whisky bar and spa. Perfect for a special occasion or if you want to treat yourself.
5. Fountainbridge | Best Budget Area
There’s not much to see in Fountainbridge itself, but I want to flag it as a smart budget option. If your top priority is stepping out your door into centuries-old architecture, this isn’t your neighbourhood. But if you’re a savvy traveller who wants great value, modern facilities, and don’t mind a 15-minute walk to the main action, it’s excellent.
You’ll find newer aparthotels here with more space for less money. Where to stay in Edinburgh city centre can get expensive, so Fountainbridge offers a practical compromise without sacrificing too much convenience.
- Significantly cheaper than Old or New Town
- Modern aparthotels with kitchenettes and more space
- Still walkable to city centre attractions
- Good for budget travellers and longer stays
- Lacks the historic charm of central neighbourhoods
Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge
A budget-friendly lifestyle hotel with modern design and compact rooms. Good for young travellers or anyone who values price over space.
Staycity Aparthotels Edinburgh West End
Serviced apartments with kitchenettes. Great value for families or small groups who want to save money by cooking some meals.
Grove House Hotel
A budget hotel in a Victorian building. Basic but clean with friendly service. Honest accommodation for travellers who just need a comfortable bed.
6. Leith | Worth a Visit, Not a Stay
Leith is Edinburgh’s port district and it’s genuinely cool. Once a separate town, it’s now the city’s creative and foodie hub, home to two Michelin-starred restaurants and a string of excellent pubs along the Shore. The Royal Yacht Britannia is here, and the whole area has a gritty-but-charming multicultural energy.
But here’s the thing: I don’t recommend staying here. You’ll need to catch a bus or the tram to get into the city centre (it’s quick and easy, but still). It’s also not the picture-postcard historic Edinburgh most visitors come for. Instead, I’d suggest basing yourself elsewhere and taking half a day to explore Leith during your trip.
- Home to the Royal Yacht Britannia
- Creative, multicultural atmosphere
- Generally more budget-friendly than the centre
- Requires public transport to reach main attractions, which can be inconvenient for short trips
Making Your Choice
Edinburgh is truly a walking city, and that makes choosing where to stay in Edinburgh nice and simple. For most first-time visitors, I’d point you to the New Town: you get the best of everything without the noise or inflated prices of the Old Town. Got a bigger budget and want total historic immersion? The Old Town delivers that. Want to feel like a local? Stockbridge is your answer. Watching your budget? Fountainbridge gives you space and value with minimal compromise.
