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Looking for something different? Check out our guide to party hostels in Edinburgh!

Best Hostel Old Town

Royal Mile Backpackers

This hostel is based right on the main thoroughfare in the Old Town, and is a popular hub for backpackers visiting Edinburgh! Alongside the great communal areas, they also offer daily walking tours of the city and a pub crawl every Thursday. Free WiFi is available throughout the hostel.

Edinburgh has a strong tour game – check out the best tours in Edinburgh (for all budgets!) here!

Best Budget Hotel in Old Town

ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile

Ibis are known worldwide for their comfortable, yet budget-friendly, hotels and this one on the Royal Mile is no exception! A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided every morning, and the on-site bar runs 24 hours. Rooms have modern bathrooms, work areas and a full satellite TV selection.

Best Luxury Hotel in Old Town

The Witchery by the Castle

Based right on Castle Hill, this is the closest accommodation to the city’s most iconic landmark! The hotel takes inspiration from Edinburgh’s gothic architecture to create modern interiors that elegantly combine old and new. The on-site restaurant is also popular with locals. Guests can opt for a breakfast hamper or full hot breakfast each morning.

Like AMAZING hotels? Check out our guide to the coolest hotels in Edinburgh – for any budget!

Neighborhood #2 – New Town

Where to stay in Edinburgh close to everything!

COOLEST thing to do in New Town – climb up Calton Hill to take in great views across Princes Street and even as far as the Forth Bridges
BEST place to visit in New Town – the National Portrait gallery has some great Victorian Architecture, as well as a blend of old and new portraiture and photography

Edinburgh’s New Town is the main hub of the city filled with great shopping streets, modern restaurants and excellent bars. Based on a grid system designed during the Victorian Era, the main streets are Princes Street and George Street – with great retail options, as well as Rose Street – where most of the bars are located.

Calton Hill is also an easy climb and gives you magnificent views across the city. Princes’ Street Gardens is also a popular meeting point with both locals and tourists, and the home of many of the city’s major events. Waverley Station is based here, keeping you connected with the rest of Scotland and Northern England.

More Awesome Things to do and see in New Town

Visiting during the festive period? Edinburgh’s Christmas Market and carnival is based in the gardens, and most of the Hogmanay festivities centre around the New Town
The Scott Monument is a gothic tower forming a major part of the Edinburgh Skyline – you can climb to the top!
Take on the bars of Rose Street, which often screen major sporting events and act as a great place to mingle with locals
LGBT visitors should head to the pink triangle area where all of the main gay bars are located
Ghillie Dhu is a hub for Scottish cuisine, drinks and Gaelic culture in the form of ceilidh events

Best VRBO in New Town

Boutique Apartment

This stylish and elegant flat is located on the oldest street in New Town dating back to 1780. You’ll have restaurants and artisan shops at your doorstep by staying at this central property. You’ll feel just like one of the locals in no time!

Best Hostel New Town

CoDE Pod Hostels

CoDE Pod Hostels are Edinburgh’s only pod concept accommodation with multiple hostels across the city. The LoFT is based on Rose Street, right in the heart of the action and perfect for nightlife! It’s modern design, excellent levels of service and location in a traditional building make it one of the best-rated hostels in town.

Glasgow has tons to do! But don’t forget you can take day trips around Glasgow too!

Best Budget Hotel in New Town

The Parliament House Hotel

Based on Calton Hill, the Parliament House Hotel is within easy walking distance of both the New Town and the Old Town! They offer a full Scottish breakfast every morning which includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. Rooms are fully equipped with modern conveniences and elegant, traditional décor.

Best Luxury Hotel in New Town

The Balmoral Hotel

The Balmoral Hotel is an attraction in itself, with its gorgeous clock tower becoming an icon of the city! The hotel has become synonymous with luxury in the centre of Edinburgh, offering excellent rooms and high standards of service. There are four restaurants and bars on-site, with the Brasserie being popular with locals and visitors alike.

There’s so much to do in Scotland! So you won’t run out of things to do in Edinburgh!

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Neighborhood #3 – Cowgate

Where to stay in Edinburgh for nightlife!

COOLEST thing to do in Cowgate – enjoy the eclectic nightlife catering to all tastes that stretch along the Cowgate
BEST place to visit in Cowgate – visit the Grassmarket at the end of Cowgate where you can learn about the city’s history and admire street performers in the summer

Located deep within the heart of the Old Town, Cowgate is the main nightlife area of the city with a wide range of bars, nightclubs and casual restaurants to delight all guests. Whether you are looking for modern hits, alternative rock or the latest techno DJs there is definitely a bar for you along Cowgate!

At the end of Cowgate is the Grassmarket area. Formerly the site of public hangings in the city, it is steeped in history and lies just beneath the castle! Here you will find some more ordinary bars offering sports screenings, well-priced drinks and the friendly atmosphere the city has become known for.

More Awesome Things to do and see in Cowgate

The Hive has become a right of passage for revellers in Edinburgh offering cheap drinks and popular hits, albeit with a slightly run down atmosphere and very young crowd
Next door is Banshees Labyrinth, giving you a more alternative experience with classic rock music, karaoke nights and a free cinema every night
Brew Dog is a Scottish craft beer brand that has exploded internationally – their main Edinburgh pub is located on Cowgate and popular with the business crowd
Though relatively new, Mary’s Milk Bar has quickly become an Edinburgh institution serving homemade ice cream and epic hot chocolate
Victoria Street connects Cowgate with the Royal Mile and is famous as the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter

Best VRBO in Cowgate

Royal Mile Apartment

You’ll be right opposite Holyroodhouse Palace in this traditionally decorated Apartment. With loads of pubs, restaurants and all of the most famous sites in all of Edinburgh just a stone’s throw away from the flat, you won’t find a better place to base yourself out of!

Best Hostel Cowgate

Budget Backpackers

Located just at the end of Grassmarket, Budget Backpackers is a great social hostel offering large common areas and free city tours! The Kick Ass Café is on-site and serves budget-friendly lunches and snacks. The bar area hosts daily events, and free WiFi is available throughout the hostel.

Once you’ve booked, check what there is to do in Glasgow!

Best Budget Hotel in Cowgate

Stay Central Hotel

The stylish Stay Central Hotel is one of the best-rated budget hotels in the city! Located right on Cowgate, it is a great option if you want to stay in the heart of the main nightlife area. It is connected to the Three Sisters Bar, which also acts as a communal space.

Looking for a deal? Our recommended budget hostels in Edinburgh won’t break the bank!

Best Luxury Hotel in Cowgate

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

The Apex Grassmarket is a truly luxurious hotel that comes with an indoor pool, sauna and fitness area! Located right in the middle of Grassmarket, it is only a short walk from Cowgate and ideally located for exploring the Old Town. The on-site bar & brasserie is popular with locals and serves a complimentary breakfast.

There’s so much to do in Scotland! So you won’t run out of things to do in Edinburgh!

Heading to Glasgow too? Save some money with our budget guide to Glasgow’s best hotels!

Neighborhood #4 – Portobello

Best neighbourhood in Edinburgh for families!

COOLEST thing to do in Portobello – run right into the brisk waters of the River Forth with the Wild Ones every Thursday
BEST place to visit in Portobello – Noble Leisure is a typical seaside arcade that is great for families during the colder months

Portobello is Edinburgh’s most popular seaside suburb with a large beach that is popular during the summer! Even during the winter, there is plenty to do in the area, with arcades and excellent restaurants lining the waterfront. From the beach, you can take in magnificent views of Fife and the Firth of Forth.

Although Portobello is a bit further out than other areas in this guide, it is a very peaceful area with a strong local spirit! This makes it the ideal spot for families looking to stay away from the hectic atmosphere of the city centre.

More Awesome Things to do and see in Portobello

Head to Portobello Sailing & Kayaking Club where you can try out taster sessions on kayaking and rowing
Looking to unwind? Portobello Swim Centre has the only publicly owned Turkish Baths in the city!
Eating some fish and chips at the seaside is a popular activity across the UK during the summer – we recommend St Andrews Restaurant in Portobello!
In August Portobello celebrates the end of the festival season with the Big Beach Busk, with plenty of street performers along the shore
For a similar atmosphere, but indoors where it’s warm and cosy, head to Dalriada Bar for their busking sessions every Wednesday to Sunday

Best VRBO in Portobello

Seafront Home

Keep the crowded downtown Edinburgh at an arm’s length distance and enjoy some peace and quiet on the Scottish coast! This beachfront apartment gives its guests breathtaking views of the sea and an experience unlike any other! This spacious sparkling clean property is the perfect place to relax and listen to the waves break against the shore!

Best Hotel for Backpackers in Portobello

Aynetree Guest House

Whilst there aren’t any hostels in Portobello, Aynetree Guest House is a great option for backpackers and those sticking to a strict budget! Located in a Victorian house, Aynetree provides a very typical Edinburgh experience. There is free WiFi throughout the property, and a traditional breakfast is provided.

Best Budget Hotel in Portobello

Best Western Kings Manor

Best Western are well known for their affordable comfort, and the Kings Manor is a great hotel for families visiting Portobello! There is a large swimming pool on-site, as well as a fitness centre and spa facilities. A full Scottish breakfast is provided every morning, and WiFi is available throughout.

Best Luxury Hotel in Portobello

Abercorn Guest House

This four-star guest house gives you the comfort and friendliness of a bed and breakfast, whilst still providing some additional luxury touches! Rooms are decorated to compliment the Victorian style of the building, and the walled garden area is perfect for relaxing and meeting other guests. A complimentary breakfast is provided.

There’s so much to do in Scotland! So you won’t run out of things to do in Edinburgh!

P.S – You must check out our article about some of the most adventurous day trips from Edinburgh!

Neighborhood #5 – Leith

Where to stay in Edinburgh on a budget!

COOLEST thing to do in Leith – pick up some great arts and crafts pieces from Scotland’s up and coming artists at the Scottish Design Exchange
BEST place to visit in Leith – check out the infamous Banana Flats, which were featured in Trainspotting and give an insight into the area’s past

Once one of the most notorious areas of Scotland for crime, Leith has seen a revival in the past few decades and has become a major hub for students, young professionals and tourists! Whilst officially part of Edinburgh, many Leithers consider the area to be a separate city in its own right and this independent spirit is apparent on every street.

Many of the city’s creative hubs are based in Leith, offering local performances, art galleries and concerts! The Shore area has plenty of top-notch restaurants and cafés, and the Ocean Terminal shopping centre is filled with international brands and local boutiques.

More Awesome Things to do and see in Leith

Sketchy Beats Café host a wide range of creative events including open mic nights, concerts by local performers and art exhibitions
Custom Lane, located near the shore, has a bit of a hipster vibe with excellent local boutiques and speciality coffee stores
Head to the Ship on the Shore to sample some of the best seafood in Scotland, with most dishes created using ingredients caught that day
Located right next to Ocean Terminal, the Royal Yacht Britannia was once the official ship of the Royal Family and is a great tour for those interested in the monarchy
Stewart’s Dockside Tap offers a great selection of independent craft beers from across Edinburgh

Best VRBO in Leith

Travel Themed Flat

This flat is decorated with the owners souvenirs from his world travels and ensures you a comfortable stay on the coast. With its cozy interior and central location, you won’t find a better place to call home!

Best Hostel Leith

Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel

Though technically just south of Leith, Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel gives direct access to Leith Walk and is within walking distance of all the area’s main attractions! This five-star hostel is incredibly popular with visitors to the city and is highly commended by the local tourism board. They offer free WiFi and hot drinks.

Best Budget Hotel in Leith

Rooms at GPO

Located right in the heart of Leith, this hotel is in a converted post office making it a historic attraction in its own right! Rooms come with tea and coffee making facilities, private bathrooms and free WiFi. Despite being so highly recommended by previous guests it also offers excellent rates on the rooms.

Best Luxury Hotel in Leith

Oakhill Apartments Edinburgh

Leith is not an area for luxury hotels, so if you are looking to splurge your best option is to hire a local apartment! Oakhill Apartments are beautifully decorated with modern design and housed within traditional buildings. Free parking is available for all guests, and there are private balconies offering views of the city.

There’s so much to do in Scotland! So you won’t run out of things to do in Edinburgh!

Traveling around Scotland? – These are the top areas to stay in Inverness, Scotland!

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Neighborhood #6 – Stockbridge

Best neighbourhood in Edinburgh for couples!

COOLEST thing to do in Stockbridge – take a walk along the Water of Leith, a truly romantic setting amongst nature
BEST place to visit in Stockbridge – the National Gallery of Modern Art always has some interesting displays and interactive exhibits

Stockbridge is one of Edinburgh’s most exclusive areas filled with local boutiques, quaint restaurants and romantic walking trails! Though it is only a short walk from the city centre, it has a much more relaxing atmosphere. It can be easy to forget you are in a city at all thanks to the village feel of the whole area.

The Water of Leith passes through Stockbridge and many of the best sections are nearby. This is a great place for a walk during the Spring and Summer. It also passes by the Museum of Modern Art which houses a great selection of contemporary works from across the world!

More Awesome Things to do and see in Stockbridge

Sample local delicacies and pick up unique souvenirs at Stockbridge Market every Sunday from 10am-5pm
Just north of Stockbridge are Inverleith Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens – perfect for a romantic stroll or even just as a space to unwind
The Scran and Scallie serve modern interpretations on traditional Scottish cuisine designed by Michelin starred chefs from the city
If you want a relaxing place to start a night out, The Last Word Saloon offers excellent cocktails in a gothic setting
For some unique souvenirs, head to Caoba where you can pick up ceramics and other crafts imported from Central and South America

Best VRBO in Stockbridge

Modern Comfy Flat

This ground-floor apartment will have you staying right next to Stockbridge Market and within walking distance of the best restaurants and Edinburghs main attractions! With its bright atmosphere, large windows, and relaxing pastel shades, this is the kind of property that you have been dreaming of!

Best Hostel Stockbridge

Belford Hostel

Located close to the gorgeous Dean Village enclave of Stockbridge, Belford Hostel is set within a converted church making it quite unique! They offer great dorm and private rooms at some of the best prices in Edinburgh. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, which has a very creative atmosphere.

Best Budget Hotel in Stockbridge

Britannia Edinburgh Hotel

Based right on the banks of the Water of Leith, this hotel has a charming setting within a very calm area! A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided every morning – perfect for getting you set up for a day of exploring. Bedrooms are elegantly equipped with modern technology and large en-suite bathrooms.

Best Luxury Hotel in Stockbridge

The Chester Residence

This gorgeous aparthotel gives you the added luxury of a private apartment whilst still retaining the convenience of a hotel! A continental breakfast is provided every morning, and rooms are equipped with luxury facilities and toiletries. They offer in-room spa treatments at an additional fee, as well as discounts on local tours.

There’s so much to do in Scotland! So you won’t run out of things to do in Edinburgh!

Neighborhood #7 – Southside and Newington

Best neighbourhood in Edinburgh during the festivals!

Southside and Newington, Edinburgh
(Photo Credit: https://nen.press/)

COOLEST thing to do in Southside – climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano with panoramic views across the city, the Firth of Forth and the Pentland Hills
BEST place to visit in Southside – fans of the macabre will love the Royal Surgeons’ Hall Museum with surgical equipment and preserved human remains on display

The Southside and Newington areas of Edinburgh are major hubs during the Edinburgh Festival, with most of the big venues being located nearby! The streets come alive with food trucks and street performers, and most of the bars turn into smaller venues offering free shows.

During the rest of the year, Newington and Southside become major student districts thanks to Edinburgh University. This results in plenty of cheap bars, excellent cafes serving international cuisine and an alternative atmosphere! The Meadows, the largest park in the city, also starts here and is a hub of activity year round.

More Awesome Things to do and see in Southside and Newington

Head to the Meadows during the summer where you can enjoy a barbecue, or simply relax in the sunshine
Summerhall is an important arts venue throughout the year hosting theatre, dance and music performances long after the festival has ended
Newington is a multicultural area with excellent restaurants – Nile Valley Cafe serves excellent Ethiopian cuisine, whilst Mosque Kitchen is a local institution with cheap curries
Interested in a round of golf? Prestonfield and Duddingston golf clubs are located nearby and are the most popular in the city
For nightlife, we suggest heading to Brass Monkey where you can enjoy craft beers and other beverages from comfortable sofas and mattresses

Best VRBO in Southside

Light and Bright Apartment

The minute you step through the door, your spirits will lift with the bright primary colours you’ll find in this flat! With Holyrood Park and all the historic sites and best restaurants nearby, you will not find a better place to base yourself out of in Edinburgh.

Best Hostel Southside

Argyle Backpackers

This vibrant hostel is perfect if you are looking for accommodation where you can meet other visitors! The large garden area is the perfect spot for socialising in, and the rooms are spacious with sturdy furniture. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, as well as free tea and coffee in the dining area.

Best Budget Hotel in Southside

KM Central

Rooms in KM Central are beautifully decorated with murals depicting scenes from across the city! A full Scottish breakfast is provided every morning, with free WiFi access available throughout the hotel. KM Central is highly rated by previous guests thanks to their excellent levels of service.

Best Luxury Hotel in Southside

Barony House

This five-star Victorian guest house is perfect for splurging on if you want a homely atmosphere in a calm area of the city. Just a little further south than Newington, Barony House is quite secluded but nevertheless well connected with the city centre. A large breakfast menu is available every morning.