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Planning a trip to Edinburgh this year? Someone in the Rick Steves Europe Facebook group recently asked for hotel recommendations for a few nights and the responses poured in. While everyone’s budget and travel style are different, a handful of hotels were recommended over and over again.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Edinburgh several times and have stayed at three very different hotels: The Balmoral, Hotel Missoni (which is now Virgin Hotels Edinburgh) and Prestonfield House. Each offered a completely different experience, from iconic luxury in the heart of the city to a stylish boutique hotel in Old Town and a secluded country estate just minutes from downtown. I’d happily recommend all three depending on your budget and travel style, but I was curious to see which hotels experienced travelers rave about today.
Here’s what fellow travelers recommended most often:
Most Recommended Hotels
Most Recommended Hotels1. The Balmoral
This iconic luxury hotel was one of the most frequently recommended, and I completely understand why. I’ve stayed there and loved the unbeatable location next to Waverley Station, the elegant rooms and the outstanding service. It’s a true Edinburgh landmark.
Best for: Luxury travelers who want to be in the heart of the city.
2. Market Street Hotel
One of the biggest surprises in the thread was how many people recommended Market Street Hotel.
Guests loved:
- Steps from Waverley Station
- Modern rooms
- Air conditioning (not always common in the UK)
- Easy walk to the Royal Mile
- Great rooftop champagne bar
One traveler summed it up: “Hands down.”
3. Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Probably the best value among the most-recommended hotels.
Guests highlighted:
- Incredible castle views
- Excellent location in the Grassmarket
- Great breakfast
- Balconies overlooking Edinburgh Castle
- Historic pubs right outside the door
Several commenters specifically recommended requesting a castle-view room.
Other Popular Picks
These hotels also received multiple endorsements:
- The Caledonian Edinburgh (Curio Collection by Hilton)
- The Scotsman Hotel
- Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
- Fingal Hotel
- Hotel Indigo Edinburgh
- The George Hotel (InterContinental)
- Kimpton Charlotte Square
Great Value Options
If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing location, travelers recommended:
- Motel One Edinburgh-Princes
- ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile
- ibis Styles St Andrew Square
- Residence Inn by Marriott
- DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh
- Wilde Aparthotels Grassmarket
Apartment-Style Stays
Several travelers preferred apartments over traditional hotels, especially for longer visits.
Popular choices included:
- Old Town Chambers
- Fraser Suites
- Eden Locke
- Destiny Scotland Apartments
- Destiny Apartments Borough Street
Many offer kitchenettes, laundry facilities and extra living space.
Boutique Favorites
For travelers looking for something a little different, these properties earned enthusiastic reviews:
- Black Ivy
- The Rutland
- 100 Princes Street
- Gleneagles Townhouse
- DogHouse Edinburgh
- Haymarket Hotel
- 23 Mayfield
My Edinburgh Hotel Picks
If you’re wondering where I’d stay again, here’s my take:
The Balmoral – If your budget allows, this is my top pick. The location is hard to beat, the service is excellent and it has that timeless grand hotel feel that’s perfect for a special trip.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh (formerly Hotel Missoni) – I stayed when it was Hotel Missoni, and the property has one of the best locations in Old Town. It’s within easy walking distance of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and many of the city’s top attractions.
Prestonfield House – This is unlike anywhere else I’ve stayed. Set on a 20-acre estate just outside the city center, it feels like you’ve escaped to a Scottish country manor while still being only a short taxi ride from Edinburgh Castle. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable stay, it’s hard to top.
One Common Theme
One Common ThemeThe biggest piece of advice wasn’t about a specific hotel—it was location.
Most travelers suggested staying within walking distance of:
- The Royal Mile
- Edinburgh Castle
- Waverley Station
- Grassmarket
- Princes Street
Edinburgh is incredibly walkable, but it’s also famously hilly. Staying centrally can save you from hauling luggage up (and down) the city’s steep streets and staircases.
Have you stayed in Edinburgh? If so, where? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments below.
