Edinburgh is a city of contrasts—grand yet familiar, ancient yet always evolving—and its hotels reflect that balance. From landmark grande dames to intimate boltholes and design-led aparthotels, the Scottish capital now offers a wide range of places to stay. Many properties balance heritage architecture with contemporary interiors, and you’ll find rooftop bars, whisky-filled lounges, and rooms with views of the castle or the Firth of Forth. Whether you’re visiting for festivals, food, or culture, the following hotels represent the best places to book in Edinburgh right now, selected and reviewed by Condé Nast Traveler editors who have stayed at each property.
How we choose
Every hotel on this list was chosen independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at the property. We consider luxury and boutique hotels, apartments that offer insider local experiences, design and service quality, location, and sustainability credentials. The list is updated as new openings arrive and existing hotels evolve.
The Pavilion at Lamb’s House
A beautifully restored 17th-century house in Leith, the Pavilion at Lamb’s House is a three-bedroom private bolthole near the sea. Meticulously restored with antiques, paneling, and muted colors, it offers a living room with an open fire, a fully stocked kitchen, a walled garden, and proximity to Michelin-starred dining—an intimate, characterful stay just a short tram ride from the center.
The Hoxton
The Hoxton’s first Scottish outpost sits in Haymarket and blends heritage details with irreverent design. About 200 layered rooms—from snug bunks to family suites—sit alongside a trattoria-style restaurant, a cosy five-seat cinema, flexible event spaces, and a lobby bar that moves from coffee to cocktails. The relaxed, well-executed vibe and excellent location make it a practical, stylish pick.
The Balmoral Hotel
An Edinburgh landmark crowned by its 190-foot clock tower, the Balmoral (formerly the North British Railway Hotel) is neo-Renaissance grandeur with recently refreshed interiors by Rocco Forte and Martin Brudnidzki. Brasserie Prince updates French technique with Scottish ingredients. The hotel is part of the city’s fabric and offers classic luxury, impeccable service, and an iconic address.
100 Princes Street
A discreet, club-like newcomer from Red Carnation, 100 Princes Street houses 30 plush rooms and intimate public spaces, including The Wallace lounge. The aesthetic is low-lit velveteen elegance with bespoke tartan and marble bathrooms. It offers curated experiences—from fishing to private atelier visits—and rare, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle from its position on Princes Street.
InterContinental Edinburgh The George
Housed across five adjoining Georgian townhouses on George Street, The George is a large, quietly elegant hotel with about 200 rooms. The design keeps original architectural details and pairs them with contemporary touches. Its location in the New Town is superb, and the mix of heritage suites and modern rooms suits many travelers seeking refinement without ostentation.
The Witchery by the Castle
A famously atmospheric, adults-only option located by the castle, The Witchery is theatrical Gothic luxury. Its nine lavish suites—think four-posters, crimson fabrics, and dramatic bathrooms—create an indulgent, romantic experience. The on-site restaurant is renowned for classic, sumptuous dishes; the property is unabashedly dramatic and utterly of a piece with Edinburgh’s historic heart.
Gleneagles Townhouse
Borrowing the spirit of its country-house namesake, Gleneagles Townhouse is a members’-club–leaning property in town with lively public spaces, a rooftop bar, and intimate, attentive service. The rooms and dining are polished and social; staff presence and personalized service give it a convivial, well-remembered hospitality style that suits both short city stays and as a stop before heading north for golf or fishing.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand
Set on St. Andrew Square, Cheval The Edinburgh Grand reimagines a grand building as a collection of 50 self-catering apartments and suites. The interiors mix marble, wood paneling, and high ceilings, and options range from studios to a large penthouse with wraparound views. With on-site dining and a champagne bar, it’s a good family-friendly, flexible alternative to a traditional hotel.
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
A polished, characterful hotel in Charlotte Square, the Kimpton channels Edwardian and explorer-era references across its drawing rooms and bedrooms. Townhouse rooms retain fireplaces and high ceilings when possible; the subterranean spa features a living wall and a sound wellness room. Attention to design detail and a cultured, comfortable atmosphere make it a perennial favorite.
Eden Locke
Eden Locke is an aparthotel in a Georgian townhouse with playful, contemporary interiors by Grzywinski+Pons. Apartments have small kitchens and considered design touches—Smeg cookers, curated provisions, and relaxed living spaces. The ground-floor coffee shop morphs into a bar at night. It’s a self-sufficient, design-forward pick for longer stays or independent travelers.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
In the Old Town’s India Buildings on Victoria Street, Virgin Hotels mixes preserved 19th-century features with postmodern, witty interiors. The 222 rooms are pale and light with bold red accents; Grand Chamber suites bring theatrical surprises. Commons Club restaurant and bar are standout food-and-drink destinations. The hotel balances whimsy with serious hospitality and a prime, dramatic location.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
A recently refreshed property near Waverley and Calton Hill, Apex Waterloo Place offers spacious, contemporary rooms at strong value. With an on-site restaurant, bar, and spa, it’s a practical choice for visitors who want comfortable accommodations and an excellent central location within walking distance of major attractions and transport links.
W Edinburgh
Centrally located by St James’ Quarter, W Edinburgh provides modern, cleverly amenitized rooms and suites. Suites include playful extras—complimentary bottled cocktails, yoga mats—and the hotel features a rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the castle and the Firth. Dining options include Joao’s Place speakeasy and Sushisamba; the spa and friendly service round out the offering.
Fingal
Moored in Leith beside the Royal Yacht Britannia, Fingal is a floating five-star hotel aboard a restored ship. Its cabins evoke maritime heritage with polished wood panels and contemporary touches, and service is discreet and polished. Onboard fine dining and a bar make it an atmospheric, singular alternative when you want something uniquely tied to Leith’s waterfront.
Penicuik Estate
A countryside escape about 20 minutes from central Edinburgh, Penicuik Estate offers self-catering cottages and properties designed by Fantoush. Interiors favor plush layers and high-end extras; many properties include outdoor hot tubs or cold plunges. On-site services can arrange private chefs, massages, and other experiences—ideal for those who want a rural retreat close to the city.
33 Castle Terrace
Situated under the castle in the Grassmarket, 33 Castle Terrace provides serviced apartments with Scandi-Scot interiors—wood floors, bespoke cabinetry, and calm contemporary palettes. Fully appointed kitchens and luxe bathrooms make it suitable for longer stays; discreet concierge and included cleaning give an apartment experience with hotel conveniences in an unbeatable central spot.
House of Gods
A bold, theatrical boutique hotel with neon, velvet, and maximalist design, House of Gods is for guests who prefer decadent, clubby atmospheres. Most of its 22 rooms are compact but highly stylized, and the property houses multiple bars—each dialed up on drama and hedonistic fun. It’s a nightlife-forward, design-heavy choice for an unmistakably different stay.
The Roseate
A 16-room Victorian townhouse in the West End inspired by William Playfair, The Roseate features grand fireplaces, ornate cornicing, Persian rugs, and freestanding copper tubs. The bar’s whisky cabinet is extensive, and the menu leans into hearty Scottish fare. It’s a small, characterful hotel with a polished, classic feel.
Porteous’ Studio, Grassmarket
A converted 18th-century blacksmith’s workshop now offering a single, meticulously crafted hideaway, Porteous’ Studio is a compact, wood-and-texture–focused space by local designers Izat Arundell. With heated limestone floors, clay-based plaster walls, and custom joinery, it functions as a cosy, design-led base beneath the castle—ideal for those who want a minimal, highly curated stay in the Old Town.
Market Street Hotel
A new-build, Scandi-meets-Scottish hotel near Waverley, Market Street Hotel’s rooftop reception and Champagne bar overlook the Balmoral clock tower. Rooms reference Highland baronial style with granite, oak, and carved marble basins. The hotel offers a generous free minibar, hearty Scottish breakfasts, and easy access to the Old Town’s sights—a contemporary city-center option.
Old Town Chambers, Autograph Collection
Old Town Chambers comprises around 70 unique apartments carved into historic fabric—mezzanines, basements, and lofts with exposed stone and distinctive layouts. Studios suit couples; three-bedroom units make family travel simple. With front-of-house staff and an on-site restaurant, the property combines apartment independence with hotel comforts in the historic core.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveler UK and has been updated with new information since its original publication.
