Edinburgh doesn’t just welcome visitors-it pulls them in. The castle on the rock, the cobbled closes of the Old Town, the smell of fresh bakes from local bakeries, the sound of bagpipes echoing down Royal Mile. But if you’ve ever been here, you know one thing: where you stay makes all the difference. Stay too far out, and you’re stuck on buses at 10 p.m. Stay in the wrong spot, and you’re next to a nightclub that doesn’t quiet down until 3 a.m. The right place? It’s walking distance to the sights, quiet at night, and feels like you’re living in the city, not just visiting it.
Old Town: For the Classic Edinburgh Experience
If you want to wake up with the castle in your view and the Royal Mile right outside your door, Old Town is your spot. This is where the city’s soul lives-narrow lanes, historic pubs, and stone buildings that have stood since the 1500s. It’s packed with tourists, sure, but that’s because it’s also packed with character.
Hotels here range from luxury stays like The Balmoral (a Rocco Forte property with a rooftop bar and views over Princes Street) to boutique guesthouses tucked into Georgian townhouses. For example, Hotel du Vin is a stylish, mid-range option with a wine bar and rooms that blend modern comfort with historic charm. You’ll pay between £180 and £300 a night here, depending on the season.
But don’t overlook the B&Bs. Places like The Georgian House is a family-run B&B in a restored 18th-century townhouse, with homemade breakfasts and a host who knows every hidden alley in the city. It costs around £130-£170 and includes a full Scottish breakfast with haggis, black pudding, and fresh eggs.
Downside? The streets are steep. If you have mobility issues, carry your bags up and down the cobbles. Also, some places are noisy-especially near the Cowgate. Ask for a room facing the inner courtyard.
New Town: For Sophistication and Space
Just a five-minute walk from the Old Town, New Town is where Edinburgh’s 18th-century aristocrats built their grand homes. Think wide boulevards, elegant terraces, and quiet green squares. It’s calmer here. Cleaner. More upscale. And it’s where you’ll find the best high-end hotels.
Stay at The Balmoral is Edinburgh’s most famous luxury hotel, with its iconic clock tower, afternoon tea service, and rooms that overlook Princes Street Gardens. Rates start at £350. If that’s out of your range, try Staycity Aparthotels is a well-rated aparthotel with kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays. Rooms from £140.
B&Bs here are rarer, but 49a B&B is a top pick: modern design, quiet location, and breakfast served on fine china. It costs about £160.
Why choose New Town? You’re close to Princes Street Gardens, the National Gallery, and the shopping on George Street. Plus, the area is flat, so walking is easy. It’s ideal if you want to blend luxury with practicality.
Leith: For Local Flavor and Value
Leith used to be Edinburgh’s gritty port. Now? It’s the city’s coolest neighborhood. Think artisan coffee shops, craft breweries, and seafood restaurants that serve oysters fresh off the boat. It’s where locals go after work-and where you can find real value.
Hotels here are surprisingly good. The Shore Hotel is a converted 18th-century warehouse with exposed brick, a rooftop terrace, and rooms from £110. It’s just a 15-minute walk or short bus ride to the city center.
For B&Bs, Leith Harbour House is a charming guesthouse with sea views, homemade cakes, and a host who’ll give you the inside scoop on the best fish and chips in town. Rates start at £95.
Leith is perfect if you want to avoid the tourist crowds, eat like a local, and save money. It’s not in the heart of Edinburgh-but you’re never more than 20 minutes from the castle. The 12 and 43 buses run every 10 minutes.
Stockbridge: For a Village Vibe in the City
Just north of the New Town, Stockbridge feels like a separate town. It’s leafy, quiet, and full of independent shops. The Sunday farmers’ market here is legendary. You’ll find locals buying organic bread, fresh cheese, and locally brewed beer.
There aren’t many big hotels here, but The Edinburgh Townhouse is a boutique hotel with a garden, antique furnishings, and rooms from £150. It’s a hidden gem.
For B&Bs, Stockbridge House is a warm, family-run place with a breakfast that includes smoked salmon and homemade scones. It costs £120-£140.
This is the spot if you want peace, charm, and a slower pace. It’s less than a 20-minute walk to the Royal Mile, or a 5-minute bus ride. If you’re traveling with kids or just want to escape the noise, this is your best bet.
West End: For Nightlife and Convenience
If you’re here to party, drink craft cocktails, and be close to the action, the West End is your zone. It’s where the university students hang out, where the bars don’t close until 2 a.m., and where you’ll find the best curry houses outside of Glasgow.
Hotels here are practical and affordable. CitizenM Edinburgh is a tech-savvy hotel with mood lighting, tablet-controlled rooms, and prices from £100. It’s right next to the Edinburgh Playhouse and the Usher Hall.
B&Bs are limited, but West End Guest House is a no-frills, clean, and friendly option with shared bathrooms and breakfast included. It costs £85.
Downside? It’s noisy on weekends. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs. But if you want to be steps away from bars, clubs, and late-night food, this is unbeatable.
Canal Street and Fountainbridge: For Budget Travelers
If you’re backpacking, traveling solo, or just keeping your budget tight, these two areas are where the real savings are. Canal Street, near the Union Canal, has a growing number of hostels and budget hotels. YHA Edinburgh is a clean, modern hostel with private rooms from £45 and dorms from £22. It’s got a kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a terrace with canal views.
Fountainbridge is a bit rougher around the edges, but it’s where locals live. Travelodge Edinburgh Central is a reliable chain hotel with rooms from £60. It’s not fancy, but it’s safe, clean, and just a 10-minute bus ride from the city center.
This isn’t the prettiest part of town-but it’s honest. You’ll save hundreds on accommodation and still be able to walk to the castle or hop on a bus. Perfect for students, solo travelers, or anyone who just needs a place to sleep.
What Area Should You Choose? A Quick Guide
- Best for first-time visitors: Old Town or New Town
- Best for luxury: New Town (The Balmoral, The Georgian House)
- Best for value: Leith or Canal Street
- Best for families: Stockbridge
- Best for nightlife: West End
- Best for budget travelers: Fountainbridge or YHA
When to Book and How Much to Expect
Edinburgh’s calendar is packed. The Fringe Festival in August sells out a year in advance. Even in February, you’ll find prices higher than most UK cities. Here’s what to expect in early 2026:
- Luxury hotels (The Balmoral, Hotel du Vin): £300-£500/night
- Mid-range hotels (CitizenM, Staycity): £150-£250/night
- Good B&Bs (The Georgian House, Stockbridge House): £120-£180/night
- Budget hotels (Travelodge, YHA private rooms): £60-£100/night
- Hostel dorms (YHA): £22-£35/night
Book at least 3-4 months ahead if you’re coming in summer. For winter stays, you can often find last-minute deals on Booking.com or Airbnb-especially in Leith and Fountainbridge.
Final Tip: Walk the Route Before You Book
Google Maps won’t tell you if the stairs are too steep, if the streetlight outside your window stays on all night, or if the B&B owner serves porridge at 7 a.m. or 9 a.m. Use Street View. Look at the photos. Read recent reviews. A 4-star rating from 2023 doesn’t mean much if the place was renovated in 2025.
And if you’re unsure? Pick a place within walking distance of Princes Street. You can always hop on a bus if you’re tired. But once you’re stuck 3 miles out with no transport after midnight? That’s a night you won’t forget-for all the wrong reasons.