The 24 best hotels in Edinburgh

The Balmoral is part of the Rocco Forte chain, so it has plenty to boast about. Inside, it’s got a Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One. There’s also a chic spa centre and a clocktower that makes for an iconic Edinburgh sight. Olga Polizza’s classic, elegantly designed rooms have the kind of amenities you would expect, like free wifi. However, grander suites also have their own concierge services, as well as fancy touches like flowers and fireplaces. Then there’s the in-house Palm Court, which offers an excellent afternoon tea, alongside a brasserie and not one but two bars – one of which specialises in whisky.

What’s nearby? Beyond these gorgeous, hulking walls, you'll find popular attractions like the City Art Centre and Princes Street Gardens, both of which are free entry. 

Budget range: On the luxury end for a truly decadent stay. 

Time Out tip: Enchanting all year round, Balmoral is particularly striking in Autumn against the backdrop of neo-gothic architecture and auburn-coloured leaves. 

Sometimes spanking new hotels can feel a little soulless – and it’s true that the slick, modern design of W feels a little more spaceship than Scotland – but there’s a careful attention to detail here which helps to tie everything together elegantly, without stuffing the fact you’re in Edinburgh down your throat. With luxe suites, top-class facilities, vast glass windows and private terraces with dramatic views of the city which you won’t get anywhere else, this is a destination hotel boasting style and maximum comfort. 

What’s nearby? You’re bang in the city centre, plus a short tram ride away from Leith and a quick walk to the old town. Head to Tonic for vibey cocktails or the Scottish National Portrait Gallery for a dose of culture in a grand, neo-gothic building. 

Budget range: A luxury stay, with the option to go all-out.

Time Out tip: Book yourself into the on-site speakeasy Joao’s Place for a night-cap with views before resting your head on those plump, plump pillows. 

Set in the heart of Edinburgh, the Gleneagles Townhouse is the go-to five-star hotel for luxury treatment in the Scottish capital. Opulent facilities include a 24-hour front desk, room service, superb Wi-Fi throughout and an on-site restaurant. In addition, you can enjoy an á la carte breakfast at the hotel – if you fancy staying in. Other amenities include a fitness centre, sauna and a bar for those late-night whiskies after a day exploring the city. 

What’s nearby? Popular attractions close to the townhouse include Royal Mile and Edinburgh Playhouse. For those in want of an immersive thrill, there's The Camera Obscura with over 100 interactive installations.

Budget range: An extremely lavish stay with heaps of classic charm and elegance - ideal if you have a special anniversary coming up. 

Time Out tip: For those in need of a real digital detox, the Townhouse has a range of holistic fitness classes for you to try, from yoga to spin.

Like the idea of having your own apartment while you stay right in the middle of Edinburgh? Eden Locke offers a range of different units, varying in size and price points. All of them include large TVs, while some have dedicated dining and living areas, alongside kitchens with ovens, microwaves and stoves. Topping it off, there are comfy beds, extremely wifi and a cafe/lounge/bar on-site, so you can grab a freshly brewed coffee (or beer) before heading out to explore.

What’s nearby? Treat yourself to a Levantine table with a Scottish twist at BABA restaurant, just five minutes from the hotel. 

Budget range: An affordable short break for two – ideal for those looking for something as equally stylish as it is cosy. 

Time Out tip: What makes this aparthotel different from your typical venue is perhaps the in-room massage and treatments. They cost a little extra but they're are well worth every penny.

Found just a three-minute walk from Princes' Street, The Edinburgh Grand is another apartment-style stay but on a much fancier scale. Make the most of a fancy on-site restaurant, bar (with rooftop) and coffee house while enjoying your VIP accommodation. You'll feel like a king with your fully equipped kitchen, living room and bathroom. Meanwhile, you've got key sights like The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill all nearby. 

What’s nearby? Just a short stroll to the Scottish National Gallery, and half a mile from Edinburgh Castle where you can find a Harry Potter-themed tour. 

Budget range: It's well worth splashing the cash on if you want something more independent and upscale. 

Time Out tip: Planning a surprise? This hotel loves to go the extra mile for its guests, so why not put in a special request ahead of your booking to make sure your room has just the je ne sais quoi you were hoping for.

The Waldorf Astoria was first a railway hotel at the now-extinct Caledonian station. Then, after an ambitious refurb in 2012, it emerged a very different kind of establishment. Its Edward heritage remains on display, though: the luxury here is a reserved, tasteful one. Rooms come with Nespresso machines and Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries. Wi-fi is... You guessed it, free. For fine dining, head to the in-house Pompadour restaurant, and try Grazing by Mark Greenaway for something more casual. There’s also a bar and a spa with a swimming pool.

What’s nearby? After enjoying a spot of afternoon tea at Peacock Alley you can go for a gander on Princes Street to really take in the beauty of Auld Reekie.

Budget range: It'll certainly cost you a pretty penny to stay in one of these old-fashioned, lavish rooms, but the views of Edinburgh Castle are priceless. 

Time Out tip: We know some breakfast buffets can be quite hit-and-miss. At Waldorf Astoria, you won't have to worry about piling on the hash browns because breakfast is served. 

Hapimag Resort Edinburgh offers a range of five-star suites, each with its own character, but all with antiques and a range of hotel services attached. Expect to get 24-hour room service here, as well as a microwave and crockery in each suite. And in the drawing room (how fancy?), afternoon tea and drinks are available. In some suites, there are spa baths, while others have views over Edinburgh Castle. All have free Wi-Fi. 

What’s nearby? Conveniently located near Old Town, Dean Village and Edinburgh Castle. 

Budget range: Full of residential charm and decently priced too – great for a long weekend. 

Time Out tip: You'll find it hard not to fall in love with these quaint Victorian interiors. Comfy too. Ideal for those who want a bit of peace and quiet. There's no on-site dining or spa though! 

In parkland just south of Arthur’s Seat, this hotel is found in a building which dates all the way back to the 17th century. Rooms are filled with historic furnishings like rich velvet bedding, leather upholstered chairs and deep ruby wallpaper – it’s all very old-school glamour. Communal spaces carry this sentiment, with antique items dotted about everywhere. But fear not, you’ll still get modern touches such as mood lighting, 47-inch TVs, minibars and free wi-fi. When you aren’t spotting cattle and peacocks on the grounds, you can indulge in the fine Scottish cuisine served at Rhubarb. Oh, and the city centre is just a couple of miles away if you need some Fringe action.

What’s nearby? Surrounded by lush greenery, you'll be close to the likes of Waverly Park and Prestonfield Park.

Budget range: This oh-so-velvety abode comes with a steep price tag, but you'll certainly feel like you've fallen into a period painting.  

Time Out tip: If you can afford to splash out a wee bit, then we'd highly recommend the Estate Room. It's every bit as decent as it is comfy. The in-room dining only adds to the pleasure. 

The Glasshouse is a modern five-star hotel that sits behind the 19th-century façade of Lady Glenorchy Church. The interior has a clean, contemporary design; its 77 rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with views across Edinburgh, along with Nespresso machines and newspapers. The most desirable rooms either give access to the two-acre roof garden (which has views of Calton Hill) or have balconies. Win-win, then. The on-site brasserie serves Scottish cuisine.

What’s nearby? Edinburgh Castle is just one mile away, while you can reach Princes Street in just five minutes. 

Budget range: This one is on the higher end, but it's well worth the splurge for the fantastic facilities and natural backdrop. 

Time Out tip: Taking a family holiday? There are lots of ways to explore the natural beauty of the woodlands while entertaining the brood. Grab some electric bikes and ride along the surrounding 300 acres, or put the kids' survival skills to the test with Mud & Guts' Bush Craft Camps. 

New Town’s Tigerlily is the very epitome of the design hotel, with an opulent bar, restaurant and 33 incredibly handsome bedrooms. They’re all kitted out to four-star standard and come with free Wi-Fi. The Black Room has a fireplace and a wicker chair suspended from the ceiling (because, why not?), while the Georgian suite has a contemporary four-poster. Lulu nightclub can be found in the basement.

What’s nearby? Tigerllily is just a 10-minute walk from Waverly Rail station which makes getting around a doddle. 

Budget range: Deffo not cheap – perfect for a spenny birthday weekend.

Time Out tip: Not only are they one of Endinburgh's most talked about bars, but they also host the best boozy afternoon tea in town for a decent price (from £26.95 per head).