Edinburgh is a city of striking contrasts—grand and intimate, historic and constantly refreshed—and its hotels reflect that mix. From landmark grande dames to design-forward aparthotels and cozy private houses, the city now offers a wide spectrum of places to stay. Many properties marry period architecture with contemporary interiors, and you’ll find rooftop bars, whisky lounges and rooms with views of the castle or the Firth of Forth. Whether you’re here for festivals, food or culture, the following hotels are the top picks 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 selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors who know Edinburgh and have stayed at the properties. We weigh design and service quality, location, sustainability credentials, and how a hotel reflects local character. The list is refreshed as new openings arrive and existing hotels evolve.
The Pavilion at Lamb’s House
A lovingly restored 17th-century house in Leith, the Pavilion at Lamb’s House is a three-bedroom private bolthole close to the water. Antique fittings, painted panelling and a muted palette create a quietly elegant home-with-rooms feel. It includes an open-fire living room, a well-equipped kitchen, a walled garden and easy access to Michelin-starred dining—an intimate, characterful option a short tram ride from the center.
The Hoxton
The Hoxton’s first Scottish hotel in Haymarket blends period features with playful, contemporary design. Around 200 layered rooms—from compact bunks to family suites—sit alongside a trattoria-style restaurant, a cosy five-seat cinema, flexible event spaces and a lobby bar that shifts from coffee to cocktails. Its relaxed, well-executed vibe and strong location make it a practical, stylish choice.
The Balmoral Hotel
A city landmark topped by a 190-foot clock tower, the Balmoral (once the North British Railway Hotel) is neo-Renaissance grandeur with recently refreshed interiors by Rocco Forte and Martin Brudnidzki. Brasserie Prince pairs French technique with Scottish ingredients. The hotel is woven into Edinburgh’s fabric, offering classic luxury, meticulous 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 low-lit, velveteen aesthetic is punctuated by bespoke tartan and marble bathrooms. The hotel offers curated local experiences—fishing trips, atelier visits—and rare, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street.
InterContinental Edinburgh The George
Spread across five adjoining Georgian townhouses on George Street, The George is a large, quietly elegant hotel of roughly 200 rooms. Original architectural details are preserved and paired with contemporary touches. Its New Town location is excellent for shopping and dining, and the mix of heritage suites and modern rooms suits travelers seeking refined, unflashy comfort.
The Witchery by the Castle
Perched beside the castle, The Witchery is an adults-only, theatrically Gothic property with nine lavish suites. Expect four-poster beds, crimson fabrics and dramatic bathrooms—the kind of indulgent, romantic atmosphere that matches Edinburgh’s historic center. The on-site restaurant is renowned for rich, classic dishes.
Gleneagles Townhouse
Echoing the spirit of its country-house namesake, Gleneagles Townhouse brings members’-club energy to the city with lively public rooms, a rooftop bar and attentive service. Polished rooms and convivial dining make it a memorable urban stop, and it’s a convenient base for guests heading north for golf or fishing.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand
Housed on St. Andrew Square, Cheval The Edinburgh Grand reinvents a grand building as 50 self-catering apartments and suites. Interiors combine marble, wood panelling and high ceilings; accommodation ranges from studios to a penthouse with wraparound vistas. With on-site dining and a champagne bar, it’s a flexible, family-friendly alternative to a traditional hotel.
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Set on Charlotte Square, the Kimpton channels Edwardian and explorer-era influences across its lounges and bedrooms. Townhouse rooms retain fireplaces and high ceilings where possible; the subterranean spa features a living wall and a sound wellness room. Close attention to design and a cultured, comfortable atmosphere make it a perennial favorite.
Eden Locke
Eden Locke is a design-led aparthotel in a Georgian townhouse with playful interiors by Grzywinski+Pons. Apartments include small kitchens, Smeg cookers and curated provisions—ideal for longer stays or independent travelers. The ground-floor coffee shop doubles as a bar at night, creating a social, self-sufficient base.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Housed in the Old Town’s India Buildings on Victoria Street, Virgin Hotels blends preserved 19th-century features with bold, witty interiors. The 222 rooms are pale and light with striking red accents; Grand Chamber suites add theatrical surprises. Commons Club restaurant and bar are strong food-and-drink draws. The hotel balances charm and whimsy with serious hospitality.
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Recently refreshed and close to Waverley and Calton Hill, Apex Waterloo Place offers spacious, contemporary rooms at good value. With a restaurant, bar and spa on-site, it’s a sensible choice for visitors who want comfortable accommodation within walking distance of major sights and transport links.
W Edinburgh
Adjacent to St James’ Quarter, W Edinburgh serves modern, cleverly appointed rooms and suites. Suites come with playful extras—complimentary bottled cocktails, yoga mats—and the hotel’s rooftop bar delivers 360-degree views of the castle and the Firth. Dining options include Joao’s Place speakeasy and Sushisamba; the spa and friendly service complete the package.
Fingal
Moored in Leith beside the Royal Yacht Britannia, Fingal is a five-star hotel aboard a restored ship. Cabins nod to maritime heritage with polished wood and contemporary touches, while discreet service, onboard fine dining and a bar create an atmospheric, singular waterfront experience.
Penicuik Estate
About 20 minutes from central Edinburgh, Penicuik Estate offers self-catering cottages and properties with plush interiors by Fantoush. Many units include outdoor hot tubs or cold plunges, and on-site services can arrange private chefs, massages and bespoke experiences—perfect for a countryside retreat close to the city.
33 Castle Terrace
Below the castle in the Grassmarket, 33 Castle Terrace provides serviced apartments with Scandi-Scot interiors—wood floors, bespoke cabinetry and calm contemporary palettes. Fully equipped kitchens and luxe bathrooms suit longer stays; concierge service and included cleaning give apartment independence with hotel conveniences in a prime central spot.
House of Gods
A bold, maximalist boutique hotel, House of Gods leans into neon, velvet and theatrical design. Most of its 22 rooms are compact but highly stylized, and the property houses multiple dramatic bars. It’s a nightlife-forward, design-heavy choice for guests after a clubby, decadent stay.
The Roseate
This 16-room Victorian townhouse in the West End, inspired by William Playfair, features grand fireplaces, ornate cornicing, Persian rugs and freestanding copper tubs. The bar boasts an extensive whisky cabinet and the menu favors hearty Scottish fare—a small, polished hotel with classic character.
Porteous’ Studio, Grassmarket
A converted 18th-century blacksmith’s workshop, Porteous’ Studio offers a single, meticulously designed hideaway beneath the castle. Heated limestone floors, clay-plaster walls and custom joinery create a cosy, texture-led space—perfect for travelers seeking a minimal, highly curated Old Town stay.
Market Street Hotel
A contemporary, Scandi-meets-Scottish hotel near Waverley, Market Street Hotel’s rooftop reception and Champagne bar look toward the Balmoral clock tower. Rooms reference Highland baronial style with granite, oak and carved marble basins. Generous free minibars, hearty breakfasts and easy access to the Old Town make it a practical city-center pick.
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 while larger units accommodate families. Front-of-house staff and an on-site restaurant combine apartment independence with hotel-style conveniences in the heart of the Old Town.
This guide was originally published by Condé Nast Traveler UK and has been updated with current information and new openings.
