Forget the standard travel spiel about “quaint” this and “historic” that. Let’s dive into where you’re going to crash after you’ve Instagrammed Edinburgh Castle for the umpteenth time.
Yes, we’re talking hotels — but not just any hotels. Ever slept in a gothic masterpiece? Or tucked yourself into a bed where it feels like Harry Potter might magically appear?
Stick with us to discover Edinburgh’s most spellbinding stays!
Image Credit: The Witchery. Image Location: Heriot Suite at The Witchery, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Witchery by the Castle
Ever fantasized about sleeping in a castle without the medieval plumbing? The Witchery is your spot. Nestled right next to Edinburgh Castle, this hotel is less about the broomsticks and more about the luxury. Each suite is like stepping into a different world, filled with antiques and secret passageways of comfort. Opt for the Guardroom and bathe under a ceiling of twinkling stars — indoor stars, of course.
The Balmoral
Imagine a hotel that greets you with a kilted doorman and bids you goodnight with views of the Scottish skyline. The Balmoral isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a piece of Edinburgh’s skyline, grand and stately. Conveniently located next to Waverley Station, it’s the kind of place where you might bump into an author penning their next bestseller in the lounge or enjoying a scone that’s too pretty to eat. Notably, it’s also the hotel where J.K. Rowling completed the final book of the Harry Potter series. You can find her autograph on a marble bust in suite 552, where she stayed.
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
Nestled behind the historic façade of a 170-year-old church, The Glasshouse has morphed from sacred to swanky. Since swinging open its doors in 2003, this spot has become a jewel in Edinburgh’s hotel crown. It’s not just the mix of cozy-contemporary interiors and warm Scottish hospitality that makes it a hit, but also those show-stopping views. Whether you’re eyeballing the city buzz from your window, contemplating Calton Hill, or chilling in the lush rooftop garden, The Glasshouse serves up some serious eye candy along with a slice of luxury.
Image Credit: Hotel du Vin. Image Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Hotel du Vin Edinburgh
Located in the city’s Old Town, Hotel du Vin has mastered the art of blending Scottish heritage with modern comfort. Once a city’s lunatic asylum and a science lab, now a sanctuary for travelers, each room in this boutique hotel tells a story — if walls could only talk! Their bistro? A haunt for those who love a good steak paired with the perfect glass of wine. And yes, they have plenty of both.
Prestonfield House
If you’re looking for extravagance tucked away in a secluded spot, Prestonfield House is like finding a hidden gem in your grandmother’s attic, only much fancier. With traditional afternoon tea service, lush velvet touches, and rooms that whisper of royalty, this place really knows how to pamper. Peacocks roam the grounds — because why not? And the Rhubarb restaurant will have you extending your stay just for dessert.
The Scotsman Hotel
Once the bustling hub of newspaper print and clattering typewriters, The Scotsman Hotel has stories woven into its very walls. Trading headlines for bed linens, this former newspaper headquarters now delivers front-page luxury right in the heart of Edinburgh. Each room is a headline of its own, with historic features like Italian marble and ornate cornices that scream Edwardian opulence. And if you’re looking for a scoop, the hotel’s exclusive cinema is the talk of the town — where else can you catch a flick in a piece of national heritage?
Image Credit: Fingal. Image Location: Ballroom at the Fingal, Edinburgh, Scotland
Fingal
This former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now permanently docked in the vibrant port district of Leith, offers unique nautical-themed rooms with porthole windows and polished wood finishes. Indulge at the Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, where the seafood is as fresh as the ocean breeze. Fingal blends the romance of the sea with five-star comfort, creating a truly standout experience in Edinburgh’s hotel scene.
InterContinental Edinburgh The George, an IHG Hotel
Here, you’ll feel like you’ve been cast as the lead in a posh period drama. This elegant retreat, sprawled along the historic George Street, is a masterclass in blending Georgian architecture with modern chic. Here, luxury is served with a side of Scottish charm, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy the finer things with a wee dram of whisky. The chandeliers glitter above, matching the lively buzz of conversations in their award-winning restaurant, where each moment seems to outshine the last. So, if you’re in the mood to be treated like Scottish royalty, this is your castle.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Ian.CuiYi. Image Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
FAQs about the best hotels in Edinburgh
Can I reach the top hotels in Edinburgh easily by train?
Absolutely! Hop on a train to Edinburgh, and you’re practically at the doorstep of these fabulous hotels. It’s the scenic route with a cherry on top and a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door.
Are the best hotels in Edinburgh wallet-breaking?
They can be splurges, but isn’t sleeping in a castle worth the royal ransom? Plus, you can often find good deals that won’t break the bank.
What’s the best time to visit Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is a year-round delight, but the best time to visit is late spring to early fall. The weather is nicer, the city is buzzing with festivals, and everything is just more lively. Plus, you get to experience the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August. Here’s what to do in Edinburgh, rain or shine.
Toss out those cookie-cutter hotel stays. Edinburgh’s got the charm, the legends, and the luxury beds to make your trip unforgettable. So pack your bags, grab your tickets via the Trainline app, and get ready for some Scottish magic. You might end up loving it so much you won’t want to check out!
Header Image Credit: The Witchery. Image Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
