West End Townhouse leads the list with a flawless 9.9 overall rating and a prime position near Edinburgh Castle. For boutique style with a glass wine cellar, The Rutland Hotel & Apartments on Princes Street is a close contender. Both deliver Edinburgh accommodation at its finest.
Edinburgh’s hotel scene spans castle-view grand dames to Portobello guesthouses. Here are the 20 best hotels in Edinburgh, ranked from the data up.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 12,000+ verified Booking.com reviews across 20 properties to compile this list, prioritising properties with 9.0+ overall ratings and strong location scores.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- 🏆 Best Overall: #14 West End Townhouse→ Rates
- 💰 Best Value: #15 Highfield Guest House→ Rates
- 🌅 Best Location: #20 Straven Guesthouse→ Rates
#19 Penthouse Ocean View→ Rates - 👨👩👧 Best for Families: #4 Edinburgh Aparthotel→ Rates
- 🐕 Pet-Friendly: #9 JustB Edinburgh→ Rates
- 🧹 Cleanest: #14 West End Townhouse→ Rates
#17 Sheridan Guest House→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
🗺️ Compare Live Prices on the Map
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Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Rutland Hotel & Apartments | (2200+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Hotel Ceilidh-Donia | (2000+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Ocean Mist Leith | (1500+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Edinburgh Aparthotel | (1150+ Reviews) |
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| 5. RÌGH Residences – George Street | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Six Brunton Place Guest House | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Grangeview Guest House | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 8. A Room in the City – West | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 9. JustB Edinburgh | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Castle Park Guest House | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 11. McCrae’s Bed and Breakfast | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Lovely main door 2 bed apartment | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 13. 100 Princes Street | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 14. West End Townhouse | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Highfield Guest House | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Lauderville guest house | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Sheridan Guest House | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Gilmour’s Entry Apartment | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Penthouse Ocean View Luxury Penthouse | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Straven Guesthouse | (100+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels and Accommodations in Edinburgh
1. The Rutland Hotel & Apartments
The Vibe
The Rutland is pure Edinburgh glamour — think stylish rooms, a luxurious late-lounge, and a glass wine cellar that doubles as a dining experience. You’re on the West End of Princes Street with castle views, steps from the financial district and a 15-minute stroll from the Scott Monument. The EICC is under 10 minutes’ walk.
What You Actually Get
Each room is individually designed — you won’t get a cookie-cutter stay. Rooms and apartments have limited or no lift access, so if mobility’s an issue, ring the property directly. A £10 pre-authorisation is taken at check-in. The full English/Irish breakfast gets strong marks, and vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. The location is consistently rated the best in the city by guests.
Choose this if: you want a lively, design-forward hotel on Princes Street with a world-class dining attachment.
2. Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
The Vibe
This small, family-run spot sits in a quiet residential pocket just off Dalkeith Road, less than 2 miles from the city centre. Buses run frequently — you’re 15 minutes from Waverley Station, Edinburgh Castle, and Princes Street. The bar is a genuine social hub, not an afterthought.
What You Actually Get
Free on-street parking is a serious bonus in Edinburgh. Rooms are en-suite with free WiFi. The breakfast spread includes continental and full English/Irish options. Cancellation is strict — 48 hours in writing — so don’t rely on a phone call. It is on the south side, so late-night pub crawls mean a taxi or bus back.
Choose this if: you’re driving into Edinburgh and want a quiet, affordable base with easy bus access to the centre.
3. Ocean Mist Leith
The Vibe
Right on the Shore in Leith, this spot has a 9.7 location score — one of the highest in the city. The rooms are air-conditioned (rare for Edinburgh), soundproofed, and offer river views from private bathrooms. There’s a sun terrace for sunny afternoons and a bar for the rest of the time.
What You Actually Get
Each room has a tea and coffee maker, free toiletries, and modern soundproofing. Free WiFi is strong. Private check-in and check-out is available, along with daily housekeeping. Parking is on-site. The continental breakfast is simple but fresh. Leith’s restaurant scene — some of the best dining in Edinburgh — is right on your doorstep.
Choose this if: you want to stay in Leith’s vibrant restaurant district with a view of the water and top-tier cleanliness.
4. Edinburgh Aparthotel
The Vibe
These serviced apartments sit less than a mile from the city centre and just 500 metres from the Royal Botanic Gardens. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. On-site paid parking is available, which is rare for central Edinburgh. Buses to the centre run regularly, and Waverley Station is a 5-minute taxi away.
What You Actually Get
You get a proper kitchen — oven, hob, fridge, microwave — not a kitchenette. The living area is separate from the bedroom, so it feels like a real flat. Bathrooms are modern. The property is on Canonmills, a leafy, quiet area with good transit links. When booking 3 or more rooms, different policies and supplements apply, so check before booking a group trip.
Choose this if: you want apartment-style living with cooking facilities and easy access to the Botanic Gardens and city.
5. RÌGH Residences – George Street
The Vibe
RÌGH Residences drops you right in the middle of George Street, Edinburgh’s premier shopping and dining strip. Edinburgh Castle is 500 metres away, the Royal Mile is an 8-minute walk, and the National Museum of Scotland is 15 minutes on foot. Waverley Station is under 1 km. You’re in the best-rated area in the city.
What You Actually Get
These are serviced apartments with proper kitchens — think induction hobs, full fridges, and washing machines. Breakfast options include continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. The building does not accept hen or stag parties, so expect a relatively calm, adult atmosphere. Paid parking is available on-site.
Choose this if: you want a central, self-catering base with George Street’s best bars and restaurants at your doorstep.
6. Six Brunton Place Guest House
The Vibe
Housed in a historic building, Six Brunton Place brings real character — winding staircases, original features, and a beautiful garden terrace that feels like a hidden city oasis. Free WiFi runs through the public areas, and there’s a lounge with outdoor seating. It’s in the best-rated area of Edinburgh for location, and bicycle parking is available.
What You Actually Get
This is a small guest house with a personal touch — breakfast is continental, and they offer luggage storage. Check-in is strictly between 15:00 and 19:00, so plan your arrival carefully. The rooms have flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee making facilities. The garden is the standout feature — rare for a central Edinburgh guest house.
Choose this if: you want a charming, historic B&B with outdoor space and a calm, residential feel near the centre.
7. Grangeview Guest House
The Vibe
A 30-minute walk from the centre — or a short bus ride — Grangeview sits on the south side with free private parking and free Wi-Fi. The winding staircase is the first thing you’ll notice: it’s an impressive Victorian feature. Rooms have 32-inch flat-screen TVs, modern bathrooms, and tea/coffee making facilities.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is the headline here — you can leave your car securely and bus into town. Most rooms have a private shower room, and hairdryers and ironing facilities are available on request. Check-in starts at 12:00, which is earlier than most, and late check-in (up to midnight) is possible with prior arrangement. The 9.1 location score reflects its peaceful residential setting, not nightlife proximity.
Choose this if: you’re driving to Edinburgh and want free parking with a short bus commute into the centre.
8. A Room in the City – West
The Vibe
This guest house is set in a building dating back to the 1700s — you’re sleeping in real Edinburgh history. Princes Street is a 2-minute walk away, and Edinburgh Castle is a 19-minute stroll. The rooms come with flat-screen TVs, cable channels, a seating area, and en-suite bathrooms with power showers. Free WiFi is throughout.
What You Actually Get
Four rooms in a central city property — it’s small and personal, suited to independent travellers. The kitchen is available for guest use. The property has no full-time reception, but staff are always reachable. Check-in is tight (15:00–19:00), so you need to coordinate your arrival carefully. Parking is available but limited.
Choose this if: you’re an independent traveller who values a historic building and Princes Street proximity over hotel services.
9. JustB Edinburgh
The Vibe
JustB sits by the Leith Walkway, 8 km from Haymarket Station, but with free secure on-site parking and strong WiFi. Rooms have a seating area, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and a patio with garden views. The breakfast menu is wide — continental, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and American options are all available.
What You Actually Get
Pets are welcome — an extra charge of GBP 40 per pet, per stay applies. The property has quiet hours between 00:00 and 08:00, so late-night noise is discouraged. No hen or stag parties. The patio and garden views add a layer of calm. It’s further out than most on this list, but the parking and pet policy make it a unique option for those with dogs or cars.
Choose this if: you’re travelling with a dog, need secure parking, and don’t mind being a bit outside the centre.
10. Castle Park Guest House
The Vibe
A family-run Victorian house 0.4 miles from Bruntsfield Links Park and 1 mile from the National Museum of Scotland. Rooms have TVs and tea/coffee making facilities, with either en-suite or private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is throughout. The cooked breakfast gets consistent praise — full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are all on offer.
What You Actually Get
Guests must provide an estimated arrival time at least 2 days before check-in. Check-in is strictly 15:00–19:00. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and the cooked breakfast is a proper start to the day. Parking is available. The 9.7 overall rating from 300+ reviews places it among the top-rated properties in this list.
Choose this if: you want a classic Edinburgh B&B experience with a 9.7 rating and a breakfast that justifies the stay.
11. McCrae’s Bed and Breakfast
The Vibe
McCrae’s sits in Edinburgh’s historic New Town, 15 minutes’ walk from the city centre. This family-run B&B is set in a traditional 19th-century property — think period features with modern upgrades. Rooms are en-suite with smart TVs offering free access to popular streaming services, plus tea/coffee making facilities.
What You Actually Get
Late check-in is not available — the latest check-in is 23:00, so plan accordingly. You can drop bags and collect keys from 09:30, but rooms may not be ready until 13:00. The breakfast is continental or buffet. Free WiFi is strong. The New Town location is quiet but well-connected — you’re close to Stockbridge and its weekend market.
Choose this if: you want a New Town location with period charm and the convenience of smart TVs for downtime.
12. Lovely main door 2 bed apartment
The Vibe
A ground-floor apartment with its own private entrance and parquet floors. Two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave. Free WiFi and a washing machine are included. It’s in a residential area, not the tourist core — the top-rated Edinburgh area for location, according to guests.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is advertised — a clear plus. The kitchen has a dishwasher, which makes longer stays easier. The property does not accept hen or stag parties, and guests are asked to avoid excessive noise. It’s a proper flat, not a serviced apartment — you get full privacy with no reception desk. License number: D, EH-68691-F.
Choose this if: you’re a small family or group wanting a self-contained flat with parking and no shared spaces.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lovely main door 2 bed apartment →
13. 100 Princes Street
The Vibe
Right on Princes Street, less than 1 km from both the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle — this is the definition of central. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and free WiFi. Nearby attractions include the National Museum of Scotland and Waverley Station, both within easy walking distance.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast offers continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Paid parking is available. The hotel describes itself as offering “celebrity treatment” with world-class service — and with a 9.6 rating from 200+ reviews, guests agree. Rooms are well-appointed with modern bathrooms and comfortable beds.
Choose this if: you want to be on Princes Street with a restaurant and bar on-site and all major attractions within walking distance.
14. West End Townhouse
The Vibe
West End Townhouse is the highest-rated property on this list at 9.9/10. Housed in a historic building in Edinburgh’s best-rated area, it offers free WiFi, private check-in/check-out, and rooms with private bathrooms. Each room has a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, coffee machine, refrigerator, and electric kettle — real attention to in-room comfort.
What You Actually Get
Note: breakfast is no longer offered. Cancellation policy: if you cause damage to the property during your stay, you could be asked to pay up to £200. No hen or stag parties. Parking is available. The rooms are finished to a high standard with modern fixtures inside a historic shell. The 9.9 rating speaks for itself — guests consistently give perfect scores for cleanliness, comfort, and staff.
Choose this if: you want the highest-rated property available, with a historic building and premium in-room amenities.
15. Highfield Guest House
The Vibe
Highfield occupies a historic building on Mayfield Road, offering garden views and a peaceful atmosphere. Rooms feature private bathrooms, tea and coffee makers, free WiFi, work desks, and flat-screen TVs. Daily housekeeping and luggage storage are included. The property is accessed by a set of stairs at the entrance — no lift.
What You Actually Get
Check-in is 13:00–18:00, and you must inform the property of your expected arrival time. The garden views from the front rooms are a real highlight. The 9.6 rating from 150+ reviews indicates strong satisfaction, particularly on value and cleanliness. It’s a 30-minute walk or short bus ride to the centre. Free WiFi is included.
Choose this if: you want a quiet, historic guest house with garden views and excellent value for money.
16. Lauderville guest house
The Vibe
Lauderville is a historic guest house on Mayfield Road with a 9.0 location score. Rooms offer garden views, private bathrooms, free WiFi, hypoallergenic bedding, and soundproofing — the soundproofing is a serious bonus on this busy road. Breakfast is continental or vegetarian.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is available on-site. The soundproofed rooms with hypoallergenic bedding show attention to guest comfort. Check-in runs 14:00–20:00, and you need to inform them of your arrival time. The 9.2 rating from 150+ reviews is strong, particularly for cleanliness. The south side location is quiet with good bus links to the centre.
Choose this if: you need a quiet, allergy-friendly room with free parking on the south side of Edinburgh.
17. Sheridan Guest House
The Vibe
Sheridan is a 4-star experience in a historic building, adults-only, with a 9.5 location score — one of the highest in the list. Rooms feature private bathrooms, garden and city views, free WiFi, seating areas, work desks, and coffee machines. Breakfast options include continental, full English/Irish, Asian, and American.
What You Actually Get
Adults-only means no children — this is a peaceful, quiet property. Free parking is advertised. Check-in is tight (16:00–19:00), and you must show photo ID and credit card. The garden and city views from the rooms are a highlight. The 9.8 rating from 150+ reviews places it among the very best on this list.
Choose this if: you’re travelling without children and want a top-rated, quiet guest house with a 9.8 rating and diverse breakfast.
18. Gilmour’s Entry Apartment
The Vibe
A ground-floor apartment with garden views in a residential area near the city centre. The unit features a private bathroom, washing machine, and free WiFi. The kitchen is fully equipped with a dishwasher, oven, and stovetop. Parquet floors and a dining table add to the homely feel.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is available on-site. The property is in a residential area, so guests are asked to keep noise to a minimum. No hen or stag parties. The 9.7 rating from 150+ reviews is outstanding. The full kitchen and garden views make this feel like a real Edinburgh home rather than a temporary rental.
Choose this if: you want a quiet, residential apartment with a full kitchen, garden outlook, and free parking.
19. Penthouse Ocean View Luxury Penthouse
The Vibe
On the top floor of a Western Harbour View building, this penthouse offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a living room with a sofa and dining area. The balcony provides sea views, and the kitchen is fully equipped with a washing machine. Free WiFi and free on-site parking are included.
What You Actually Get
This is a genuine penthouse — top floor, sea views, three full bathrooms. The 9.5 location score reflects its position near the coast in Leith. Check-in runs until 23:30, giving more flexibility than most. Free parking is a significant bonus. The apartment is spacious enough for groups or families who want to be near the water rather than the Old Town.
Choose this if: you want a spacious penthouse with sea views, multiple bathrooms, and free parking near Leith.
Check Tonight’s Price for Penthouse Ocean View Luxury Penthouse →
20. Straven Guesthouse
The Vibe
Straven Guesthouse sits in a historic building in Portobello, Edinburgh’s seaside neighbourhood. It’s adults-only, ensuring a peaceful stay. Each room has a private bathroom, tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, work desk, TV, and electric kettle. The 9.8 location score is the highest in this entire list — tied with the best.
What You Actually Get
The continental breakfast is simple but fresh. Check-in runs 13:30–21:30, and you must inform the property of your arrival time. Free parking is available. The historic building adds character, and Portobello’s beach and promenade are steps away. The 9.8 rating from 100+ reviews confirms this is a consistently excellent property.
Choose this if: you want Edinburgh’s best location score by the beach, with adults-only peace and a perfect guest rating.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#14 West End Townhouse
A 9.9 overall rating in a historic West End building with in-room coffee machines and a perfect location score — this is the best hotel in Edinburgh by the numbers.
💰 Best Value
#15 Highfield Guest House
A 9.6 rating with garden views, daily housekeeping, and a price point well below the city-centre average — exceptional quality for what you pay.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#20 Straven Guesthouse
The highest location score on the list (9.8) combined with a 9.8 overall rating and Portobello beach steps away — coastal Edinburgh at its finest.
How We Ranked These Best Hotels in Edinburgh
We evaluated 20 properties across 12,000+ verified guest reviews, focusing on properties with 9.0+ overall ratings. Our ranking prioritises guest satisfaction data and location scores to identify the best hotels in Edinburgh across budget and style.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, Royal Mile, and Leith/Portobello for coastal options
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Edinburgh hotels?
Most properties on this list do not advertise pet-friendliness as a standard policy, but JustB Edinburgh (#9) explicitly welcomes pets with a GBP 40 per-stay charge. Always check directly with the property before booking if you’re travelling with a dog or cat — many guest houses will consider requests even if not advertised.
Which Edinburgh hotels offer free parking?
Several properties on this list include free parking: Hotel Ceilidh-Donia (#2, on-street), Grangeview Guest House (#7, private on-site), JustB Edinburgh (#9, secure on-site), Gilmour’s Entry Apartment (#18, private on-site), Penthouse Ocean View (#19, on-site), and Straven Guesthouse (#20, on-site). Edinburgh parking is notoriously expensive, so these properties represent significant savings.
What’s the most walkable area to stay in Edinburgh?
The Old Town and New Town are the most walkable areas, putting you within 15 minutes of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and Waverley Station. Properties like West End Townhouse (#14), 100 Princes Street (#13), and A Room in the City – West (#8) are in the heart of the action. For a quieter but still central option, the West End around Rutland Street offers excellent walkability with less noise.
When’s the best time to visit Edinburgh?
May-June and September give you the best balance of decent weather and manageable crowds. August is dominated by the Fringe Festival — expect higher prices, packed streets, and a lively atmosphere. November-February are quieter and cheaper but cold (1-7°C). For a best hotels in Edinburgh experience without the premium, aim for a midweek stay in late spring or early autumn.
Can I check in late at any of these properties?
Check-in times vary significantly across Edinburgh hotels. The Rutland Hotel (#1) accepts check-in until midnight, and Penthouse Ocean View (#19) allows check-in until 23:30. However, most guest houses and B&Bs on this list — including Castle Park (#10), Six Brunton Place (#6), and Sheridan (#17) — require check-in by 19:00 and advance notification of your arrival time. Always contact the property directly if you expect to arrive outside posted hours.