Hotels in Edinburgh
Book your cheap hotel in Edinburgh
Scotland’s ancient capital, Edinburgh, or ‘Auld Reekie’ as it’s affectionately known, is built on seven majestic hills. Dominated by its imposing castle, Edinburgh’s regal architecture, centuries of history, varied nightlife and proximity to the rest of Scotland’s sights attract tourists from all over the world.
Visitors to Edinburgh can expect a warm Scottish welcome and a wide range of accommodation, from swanky boutique hotels in gorgeous period buildings to fun party hostels popular with younger travellers. Its compact size and good transport links make it ideal for budget travel, with a good range of cheap hotels within easy reach of the Old Town.
Neighbourhoods of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is divided into two main neighbourhoods: the Old and the New Towns, which are separated by the Princes Street Gardens. Both offer a range of cheap accommodation options. The Old Town is clustered around Edinburgh Castle and the city’s main sights are concentrated in its historic maze-like streets, so it’s ideal for first-timers. If it’s nightlife and restaurants you’re after, the New Town (which isn’t as new as the name suggests – there’s a lot of history here too!) is a safe bet. Another interesting neighbourhood is Edinburgh’s up-and-coming port area, Leith, whose waterside streets are home to an array of Michelin-starred eateries and affordable hotels.
What to see and do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh enthrals visitors with its dazzling architecture and centuries of history. The imposing Edinburgh Castle dominates the Old Town and makes for a fitting first stop on any itinerary. From there, walk down the Royal Mile and run the gauntlet of what the city has to offer – the Grassmarket, the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, the photogenic Victoria Street, the National Museum of Scotland and finally Holyrood Palace, once inhabited by Mary Queen of Scots. Next up, the New Town. Take a hike up Calton Hill to wander among its opulent monuments and enjoy the rather Instagrammable view over the city. Check out the shops on Princes Street, take a stroll through its eponymous gardens, soak in the art at the Scottish National Gallery and then wander into the bucolic Dean Village.
What to eat in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the place to sample quality fresh produce from all over Scotland – smoked salmon, seafood, and fine whiskies. You can’t come to Scotland and not try haggis – don’t ask what’s in it, just enjoy its peppery goodness along with some neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), all washed down with a dram.
Whisky lovers will be in their element here – you’ll find a fine selection of malts in almost any bar. If you’re keen to learn more about Scotland’s national tipple, the Scotch Whisky Experience, located right next to the Castle, is well worth a visit.
The Scots are famous for their sweet tooth too – don’t forget to buy some tablet or some Tunnock’s caramel wafers to take home with you. And finally, dare we mention the deep fried Mars bar?
Typical events and festivals in Edinburgh
No guide to Edinburgh would be complete without mentioning the Fringe – the world’s biggest arts festival. During the Fringe Festival, the city fills with performers and there are shows on every corner – a theatre lover’s dream! Hotels fill up fast, though, so to book a cheap hotel, you need to plan well in advance.
Hogmanay (New Year) is also a big deal in Edinburgh – in fact, it’s one of the biggest New Year’s celebrations on the planet. Expect spectacular fireworks, street parties, live music, torchlit processions and a good old singalong of Auld Lang’s Syne – all topped off by a hungover fancy-dress dip in the sea the next morning, if you’re brave enough!
If you’re here on 25 January, make sure you attend a Burns Night supper, held to celebrate Scotland’s favourite poet, Robert Burns. Bagpipes, poetry, haggis and whisky galore.
How to move around in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a very walkable city, but there has a modern tram system that will whisk you around the city, with stops close to most of the main attractions and, rather handily, the airport. There’s also an extensive bus network. Trains leave for destinations all over Scotland from Waverley train station. Tickets are available for purchase right here on our website – or if you’re planning a road trip, talk to us about hiring a car.
The climate in Edinburgh
As with anywhere in the British Isles, summer is probably the best time to visit Edinburgh – the weather is quite changeable all year round, so it’s definitely best to pack accordingly – think layers! Don’t rule out visiting in winter though, many of the attractions are indoors and there are plenty of cosy cafés and traditional pubs to take refuge in.
More interesting facts about and sights in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a literary city: Harry Potter fans flock to The Elephant House café, where JK Rowling spent many an afternoon writing about the pursuits of the boy wizard.
Love to be spooked? History-steeped Edinburgh is said to be one of the most haunted cities in the UK – a ghostly bagpiper is just one of the famous ghouls said to inhabit its winding streets. Dare to take a guided ghost tour?
People forget that Edinburgh is right by the sea – check out the beach at Portobello or hop on a train to North Berwick or Aberdour for some brisk sea air and a spot of fish and chips – the British seaside at its best.