Edinburgh: Discover the Top Areas to Stay in Scotland's Historic Capital

Edinburgh, Scotland's captivating capital, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history with modern life. Renowned for its impressive medieval buildings, picturesque squares and vibrant cultural scene, Edinburgh manages to charm every visitor from the very first moment. The iconic Edinburgh Castle, dominating the city skyline, is undoubtedly the main attraction. Built on an inactive volcanic rock, it offers magnificent views and allows visitors to explore Scotland's history through its halls.

The city is divided into the Old Town and the New Town, with the Old Town brimming with narrow streets and buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, while the New Town, built in the 18th century, is famous for its Georgian architecture and elegant buildings. The main street of the Old Town, the Royal Mile, is filled with museums, shops, and traditional pubs, where you can enjoy local delicacies and the renowned Scotch whisky.

For nature lovers, Arthur’s Seat is one of the top destinations. This volcanic hill offers excellent hiking trails and panoramic views across the entire city. A short distance away is Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the royal family in Scotland, a must-see destination if you are interested in the British monarchy.

Edinburgh is not just a city full of historical sights. Every August, the city transforms into a global cultural hub with the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where hundreds of artists and theatre groups from all over the world participate in a massive celebration of theatre, music, and art.

Edinburgh is also an ideal destination for travellers interested in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering many accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets.

1. Old Town

The Old Town is the historic heart of Edinburgh and offers visitors the opportunity to wander through medieval buildings, narrow alleys, and historic squares. This area is famous for the Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace. Here, visitors can discover museums, churches, traditional pubs, and shops selling local products. The area boasts a lively nightlife and is filled with small restaurants and cafes.

Pros:

• Close to all main attractions
• Rich in history and culture
• Easy walking access to the entire city

Cons:

• Bustling and touristy, especially during the summer season
• Prices are often higher due to the central location

Recommended accommodation in the Old Town:

1. Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

The Radisson Blu is located right on the Royal Mile and offers modern amenities with excellent views of the historic centre. It features comfortable rooms, a spa, a gym, and a restaurant, ideal for travellers who want to be close to the attractions.
Average cost: 250€ per night.

2. Motel One Edinburgh-Royal

Motel One offers stylish and affordable accommodation in a central location in the Old Town, just a few steps from the Castle and Waverley train station. Ideal for travellers looking for comfort without exceeding their budget.
Average cost: 150€ per night

3. The Witchery by the Castle

This boutique hotel is located next to Edinburgh Castle and offers atmospheric suites decorated with luxurious materials and traditional decor. It's ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
Average cost: 400€ per night

4. ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile – Hunter Square

This affordable hotel is located in the heart of the Old Town, offering simple but comfortable accommodation options for travellers who want to be close to all the main attractions.
Average cost: 120€ per night

5. Apex Grassmarket Hotel

With an excellent location in the Grassmarket area, this hotel offers views of Edinburgh Castle, modern amenities, and comfortable rooms. It's ideal for those who want to combine comfort with a central location.
Average cost: 200€ per night

2. New Town

Edinburgh's New Town, with its Georgian architecture and elegant shops, offers a more modern and luxurious atmosphere compared to the Old Town. It is the destination for those seeking shopping and high-quality restaurants. Princes Street and George Street are the main shopping thoroughfares, while the area is filled with stylish hotels and trendy bars.

Pros:

• Close to shops and restaurants
• Quieter than the Old Town
• Spacious accommodation and modern amenities

Cons:

• Less historical atmosphere
• Prices can be high due to the commercial zone

1. The Balmoral Hotel

The Balmoral is one of Edinburgh's most luxurious hotels, known for its aristocratic ambiance and opulent amenities. It is located right next to Waverley station and offers stunning views of the city.
Average cost: 450€ per night

2. InterContinental Edinburgh The George

The InterContinental Edinburgh The George is one of the most historic hotels in the New Town, with luxurious rooms and five-star services. It is located near Princes Street and offers sophisticated amenities, including a gym and a restaurant.
Average cost: 350€ per night
Pros: Luxurious amenities, historic atmosphere, excellent location.
Cons: High cost of accommodation.

3. The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

The Glasshouse is a modern, luxurious hotel part of Marriott's Autograph Collection. It boasts stunning views and is located near the Edinburgh Playhouse. The rooms feature contemporary design, and the hotel has lush rooftop gardens.
Average cost: 300€ per night

4. Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is excellently located near Waverley station and offers modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a fully equipped spa. It is ideal for visitors seeking relaxation and luxury close to the New Town's main attractions.
Average cost: 220€ per night

5. Eden Locke

Eden Locke is a modern hotel that combines apartment-style accommodation with boutique hotel services. Located on George Street, it offers stylish apartments with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for visitors who want more independence during their stay.
Average cost: 180€ per night

3. Leith

The Leith area, located by the port, has transformed in recent years into a modern and vibrant destination, filled with excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is known for the Royal Yacht Britannia, one of the city's most popular tourist attractions, as well as for its seaside atmosphere that offers something different from central Edinburgh.

Pros:

• A culinary paradise with many dining options
• Peaceful seaside atmosphere
• Good options for affordable accommodation

Cons:

• Quite far from the city centre
• Limited nightlife

1. Malmaison Edinburgh

Malmaison is a stylish boutique hotel, known for its modern decor and warm atmosphere. Located near the harbour, it offers a relaxing accommodation experience away from the bustling city centre.
Average cost: 200€ per night

2. Ocean Serviced Apartments

For families or groups seeking more comfort and space, Ocean Serviced Apartments are the ideal choice. They offer fully equipped apartments with wonderful sea views and easy access to the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Average cost: 130€ per night
Pros: Spacious apartments, sea views, ideal for families.
Cons: Quite far from the centre.

3. Fingal – A Luxury Floating Hotel

Fingal is a unique luxury floating hotel, moored in the port of Leith. Its cabins offer an experience of luxury and tranquility, while the hotel provides high-quality services and amenities.
Average cost: 350€ per night

4. Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Waterfront

The Holiday Inn Express is ideal for those seeking affordable but comfortable accommodation in Leith. The hotel offers modern rooms, breakfast, and is close to Ocean Terminal shopping centre and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Average cost: 120€ per night

5. The Shore Hotel

The Shore Hotel is an affordable option near Leith harbour, offering simple but comfortable rooms. Ideal for those who wish to stay in a peaceful neighbourhood, close to excellent restaurants and cafes.
Average cost: 90€ per night

4. Stockbridge

The Stockbridge area is known for its elegance and charm, with picturesque shops, cafes, and small markets. It is located near the Royal Botanic Garden and is ideal for those who want to enjoy a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Its neighbourhoods are full of greenery, and the landscape offers ample opportunities for strolls and relaxation.

Pros:

• Peaceful and elegant area
• Close to the Royal Botanic Garden
• Ideal for families and couples

Cons:

• Limited nightlife options
• Quite far from the city centre

1. The Raeburn

The Raeburn is a stylish boutique hotel with spacious and luxurious rooms, close to Stockbridge's restaurants and markets. The hotel offers beautiful decor and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing holiday.
Average cost: 200€ per night

2. Nira Caledonia

Nira Caledonia is a luxurious boutique hotel housed in a Georgian mansion, a few minutes from Stockbridge. It offers opulent rooms and a quiet, elegant atmosphere.
Average cost: 250€ per night

3. Inverleith Hotel

The Inverleith Hotel is a smaller and more affordable option for accommodation near the Royal Botanic Garden. It offers traditional decor and comfortable rooms in a quiet neighbourhood.
Average cost: 110€ per night

4. B+B Edinburgh

B+B Edinburgh is a beautiful, affordable option for accommodation near Stockbridge. It offers comfortable and modern rooms, as well as an excellent location for exploring the area.
Average cost: 140€ per night

5. Haymarket

The Haymarket area is located west of Edinburgh city centre and is known for its central train and tram station, connecting Edinburgh to other Scottish cities, as well as to the airport. This area is ideal for those who want to stay a little away from the bustling centre, but with direct access to all public transport and neighbouring areas. The surrounding restaurants and bars offer many options, and the area is a popular choice for business travellers.

Pros:

• Excellent access to public transport
• Quieter and more affordable area compared to the centre
• Good connections to the airport and other parts of the city

Cons:

• Less vibrant compared to the centre
• Limited nightlife options

1. Haymarket Hotel

The Haymarket Hotel is a friendly and comfortable hotel, centrally located near Haymarket station. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hotel offers excellent service. Ideal for travellers seeking affordable accommodation in a convenient location.
Average cost: 100€ per night
Pros: Very close to Haymarket station, good value.
Cons: Basic amenities, not luxurious.

2. The Dunstane Houses

The Dunstane Houses offers a luxurious accommodation experience in a boutique hotel, with traditional decor and high-standard services. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, the hotel combines elegance with relaxation, away from the city centre's crowds.
Average cost: 250€ per night
Pros: Luxurious atmosphere, boutique experience.
Cons: Far from the city centre.

3. Apex Haymarket Hotel

The Apex Haymarket Hotel is located near Haymarket station and offers modern rooms with all amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and a gym, and its location makes it ideal for business trips or for travellers who want easy access to the airport and the city centre.
Average cost: 150€ per night

4. The Haymarket Lairg Hotel

The Haymarket Lairg Hotel offers a more traditional character to your stay, with classic Scottish decor and friendly service. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and its location near Haymarket station makes it ideal for travellers who want easy access to the centre and the airport.
Average cost: 120€ per night

How to get to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is directly connected to Greece via flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. Most flights from Athens are direct, lasting approximately 4 hours. Direct flights are available from major airlines, such as Aegean Airlines and easyJet, making Scotland's capital an accessible and easy destination for Greek travellers.

If you are departing from Thessaloniki, flights usually involve one stopover, as there is no direct connection. However, there are comfortable and frequent options with a short layover in cities such as London or Amsterdam. Overall, the flight duration ranges from 6 to 8 hours, depending on the waiting time.

To find the best flight tickets for Edinburgh, visit travelo.gr, where you will find offers for flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as other options for your travel destinations.

Edinburgh is a city that offers everything – from the history and monuments of the past to modern amenities and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you prefer to stay in the Old Town with its medieval charm or in the New Town with its luxury and shopping, Edinburgh has accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.

With the five top areas we suggested, you are ready to enjoy your stay in Scotland's capital. Make sure to book your accommodation in advance through the recommended hotels, and don't forget to look for the best offers on flight tickets through travelo.gr, to ensure the best price and a comfortable travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is the best for accommodation at the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic centre. For a quieter stay with good value, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodation with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without hordes of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, reviews from real guests, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, caution is advised with personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and use reliable means of transportation. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.