18 best luxury hotels in Edinburgh 

Whether you’re heading to the Scottish capital for the festival and fringe, Hogmanay or simply to enjoy spending time in this incredibly beautiful place, I think there are some truly fabulous luxury hotels in Edinburgh to choose from.

If you follow me on Instagram then you’ll know about my love affair with Edinburgh! I simply adore this city and I think it is utterly magical.

Luxury Edinburgh hotels range from a clutch of landmark Princes Street properties at the heart of the city to boutique hotels in Edinburgh located close to – or even right on – the Water of Leith.

Here you can stay in the elegant Georgian New Town, or plump for a property with panoramic views of the iconic castle. 

Having visited Edinburgh numerous times over the years, I’ve been lucky to experience a number of different hotels in the city.

Based on my own experiences, plus recommendations from fellow travellers, here is my pick of the best hotels in Edinburgh to book for the ultimate city break in this glorious city.  

1. The Balmoral

Address: 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

Best for: An iconic hotel

Of all 5 star hotels in Edinburgh, I think The Balmoral is the best known and most loved of all. It’s far more than just a luxury hotel: it’s a city institution, and is just five minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Waverley. 

The Balmoral is perfectly placed at the eastern end of Princes Street, overlooked by the castle and on the edge of the Georgian New Town.

I love that immense care has been taken here to provide the ultimate experience for each guest.

The landmark property boasts a gym, a Michelin recommended restaurant, a spa, a Palm Court, a swimming pool and a bar.

I’d highly recommend having dinner in the Number One restaurant at the hotel – we had the most incredible meal here during our stay.

The Palm Court is also a beautiful setting for a morning coffee or afternoon tea.

The Balmoral is said to be where J.K.Rowling finished writing the last of the Harry Potter books. So it’s a must for fans of the magical Wizarding World.

Discover my guide to the best Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh.

2. Cheval The Edinburgh Grand

Address: 42 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD

Best for: Luxury studios and apartments

Located in a leafy square in the heart of the city, Cheval The Edinburgh Grand is also ideally placed for exploring the New Town and OId Town areas and beyond.

Accommodation here is provided in the form of studios and apartments, so I’d highly recommend this hotel for those after self-contained options.

The building was once a bank and is now home to a range of units sleeping up to six guests.

With a cafe, bar and restaurant on site, I love that the best of both worlds can be yours here: spacious, self-contained accommodation plus access to hotel-style amenities. 

3. Virgin Hotel Edinburgh

Address: 1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2EX

Best for: Heaps of character

With an enviable location on the iconic Victoria Street (the real-life Diagon Alley!), I’d highly recommend a stay at the eclectic Virgin Hotel Edinburgh.

A red carpet leads you to the lobby area, so you feel like a VIP as soon as you set foot inside the hotel.

The walls are adorned with contemporary art and there are fun, quirky touches in every nook and cranny.

Where the communal areas are bold and exuberant, the rooms are more muted and homely. Small details, such as the artwork, bring personality – while there are characteristic pops of Virgin red here and there.

We enjoyed some incredible cocktails at the Commons Club bar and our meal at the restaurant was equally superb.

The beautiful setting and knowledgeable staff make the bar feel like the place to be in this part of Edinburgh.

For the warmer months, the hotel also has a gorgeous terrace with uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle. I can’t think of a better place to sip a refreshing cocktail when the sun is shining.

4. Prestonfield House

Address: Priestfield Road, Edinburgh EH16 5UT

Best for: A romantic stay

If it’s a deluxe bolthole close to the city you seek, then this property combines modern amenities with traditional Scottish style.

It’s housed in a baroque building that’s under three miles from Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle.  

I love that all accommodation at Prestonfield House offers sublime views over the surrounding gardens, and features original period furnishings.

There is plenty of shared space to enjoy too, including Rhubarb restaurant, the bar, the terrace and the drawing room.

I think this is among the best Edinburgh hotels for a romantic break for two.

5. The Roseate

Address: 4 West Coates & 5 Hampton Terrace, Haymarket, Edinburgh EH12 5JQ

Best for: A quieter location

The Roseate (previously Dunstane Houses) is located in a quiet residential part of town with its own train station for fast access to the city centre.

The hotels are also conveniently close to Murrayfield Stadium, a major rugby and concert venue. Recently refurbished, The Roseate offers a relaxed and intimate guest experience that blends timeless elegance with modern luxury.

The five star accommodation is spread over two historic Victorian townhouses, and I think it offers exceptional value for money at this standard.

The hotel dates back to 1852 and I love that many period features can still be seen here. You can walk to the centre of Edinburgh in just 15 minutes. 

6. Fingal – A Luxury Floating Hotel

Address: Alexandra Dock, Edinburgh EH6 7DX

Best for: Something unique

Fingal isn’t your average property. No other luxury hotels in Edinburgh are quite the same, as Fingal is a floating hotel found at Alexandra Dock!

All the amenities of Leith are close by, with the centre of Edinburgh just two miles distant. 

The boat is permanently docked here and now provides plush cabins with porthole windows and underfloor heating.

Some of the larger duplexes feature spiral staircases, and there’s a smart restaurant and cocktail bar on the boat too.  

I think a stay at this hotel is just the most wonderful, unique experience – and don’t worry, you still get all the perks of a five star hotel!

7. The Witchery by the Castle

Address: 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF

Best for: Glamour and indulgence

The Witchery by the Castle is just as much of an Edinburgh institution as The Balmoral, though this one’s better known for its restaurant.

With just nine luxurious suites, I’d recommend booking early if you want to secure a table and enjoy the magical experience of staying here. 

I think this is undoubtedly one of the top 5 star hotels in Edinburgh for romantics. Everything about the place is very special indeed and most splurge-worthy.

Each suite is individually styled and must be seen to be believed. Expect jewel hues, tactile textures and supreme comfort. 

8. The Bonham Hotel

Address: 35 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh EH3 7RN

Best for: Sumptuous interiors

The Bonham Hotel lies in the western part of Edinburgh, between the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Edinburgh Castle.

The Water of Leith is close by, and I love that the bay-fronted property is filled with original artworks and boutique-style fixtures. 

Smart George Street in the New Town is under 10 minutes’ walk from the Bonham Hotel. While on site you’ll find a bar, restaurant and parking.

There are plenty of appealing Edinburgh cafes, pubs and independent stores in the George Street area, and from there it takes just five minutes more on foot to reach Princes Street. 

9. Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh

Address: Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB

Best for: Spa facilities

Formerly The Caledonian, I think the Waldorf Astoria rivals The Balmoral in terms of both location and reputation.

During Victorian times the building was a train station, and now offers a range of luxury accommodation.

The more spacious suites come with lounge areas and some have views of the iconic castle – which I’d definitely recommend booking if you can! 

This sizeable hotel offers a wealth of amenities, including a spa with a nail bar, an indoor pool, beauty treatments, a sauna and a steam room.

There’s also a lounge bar here plus a couple of fine dining restaurants. 

10. The Glasshouse

Address: 2 Greenside Place, Edinburgh EH1 3AA 

Best for: Spectacular views

A gothic frontage combined with lots of plate glass welcomes you to The Glasshouse, an Edinburgh hotel to the north of the city centre.

Before 2003, the building was Glenorchy Church, but is now one of the capital’s premier five star properties. 

You can walk to the Royal MIle in around 15 minutes from here. I think there are plenty of reasons to stay on site too, including a lounge with a fire pit and a fine glass-walled restaurant.

Book a suite and you may also enjoy drams of whisky, a lounge area, a balcony and views over the gardens and the city beyond. 

11. The Raeburn

Address: 112 Raeburn Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1HG

Best for: A luxurious boutique hotel

If you have bohemian inclinations, then I know you’ll love staying in Stockbridge. This attractive part of Edinburgh has an appealing neighbourhood feel and an eclectic range of cafes, pubs, bars, restaurants and shops. 

The Raeburn hotel is of course named after Henry Raeburn, a prominent Scottish painter.

Back in 1832, the Georgian building was constructed as a family home. It now offers only 10 splendid rooms for discerning and artistic guests.

There is also a restaurant and bar with an outdoor terrace here, or you can walk to the New Town or Princes Street in around 10 to 15 minutes.  

12. Eden Locke

Address: 127 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN

Best for: Solo & business travellers

To book a room in Edinburgh’s New Town is to experience living in a very special place. This incredibly photogenic part of the city is just a stone’s throw from Princes Street, with the Royal Mile to the other side.

The streets here are lined with elegant Georgian townhouses serving as homes, shops, bars and cafes.

George Street is at the epicentre of the New Town scene and Eden Locke is peaceful yet close to everything in the neighbourhood and city centre, plus the pretty Queen Street Gardens. 

Fitness classes are available on site, and there’s a cafe bar here too. Suites at this five storey aparthotel are sleek yet understated, and are far more spacious than the average city hotel room.  

Business travellers can make the most of the trendy co-working space at the hotel too, which I certainly made good use of during my stay.

I think Eden Locke is perfect for those who like to cook for themselves, as the apartments at Eden Locke have everything you need for self-catering.

13. Market Street Hotel

Address: 6 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1DE

Best for: Proximity to the station

If you’d like to be located in the Old Town, I’d recommend booking into the Market Street Hotel. It’s situated right by the Royal Mile and close to the castle, plus the interesting mix of pubs, shops and cafes found in the Grassmarket area.

This property is also ideal for those arriving or exploring Scotland by train, as Edinburgh Waverley is only a minute’s walk away. Rooms are fashionably styled with bare brickwork.

Enjoying a glass or two of fizz – or your favourite tipple – at the rooftop champagne bar during your stay is a must. 

14. Tigerlily

Address: 125 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN

Best for: A trendy bar

Tigerlily on George Street is positioned between Princes Street and the New Town. It’s home to one of the best all-day dining venues in the city, as residents and visitors flock here to savour breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. 

Tigerlily is also housed in a smart Georgian townhouse, which I just love. The property offers a range of thoroughly modern rooms with bold, designer-style decor throughout.

You can walk to the castle and other attractions in around 15 minutes from here. Not that you’ll need to, as George Street is home to some of the city’s most desirable restaurants and bars – as well as some of the capital’s most sought-after real estate. 

15. Kimpton Charlotte Square

Address: 38 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4HQ

Best for: Exceptional facilities 

Comely Charlotte Square provides the location for Kimpton, an Edinburgh hotel based in seven original Georgian townhouses.

One you arrive you can see why all that space is required, as the property has a spa, a grill restaurant, an indoor pool, a sauna and a gym. 

There’s a range of generously-proportioned rooms here, all decorated in a luxurious boutique style.

Breakfast in The Garden, an indoor covered courtyard that’s flooded with light, is guaranteed to get your day off to a good start. While 300 thread count linens promise a great night’s slumber.

The Garden also serves as a sophisticated all-day dining and drinking venue and I’d definitely recommend stopping by for a bite to eat or drink.

16. The Scotsman Hotel

Address: 20 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1TR

Best for: Charm and character

The Scotsman is a hotel named after the former purpose of the site: it was once where the popular Scottish newspaper was produced.

Now the North Bridge hotel offers a range of elegant rooms and suites, located just a couple of minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Waverley in the heart of the Old Town.

The baroque building also overlooks Princes Street Gardens. 

I love that every room at The Scotsman Hotel is unique, with light shades and contemporary touches complemented by original features such as exposed stonework.

The most spectacular views are those from the corner suites, which offer breathtaking views over the city. This hotel also offers a restaurant and bar on site.

17. Intercontinental Edinburgh The George 

Address: 19 – 21 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PB

Best for: Literature and art influences

As the name indicates, The George is also situated on the attractive street perched on the edge of the New Town and Princes Street.

This stately building dates from the 1780s and some accommodation here offers views over the famous Firth of Forth.

The kilt-wearing concierge also leaves guests in no doubt about the history of this hotel and the city in which it stands. 

Guests staying here can savour contemporary Scottish cuisine at the restaurant or linger over coffee at the more laid-back cafe.

I love that all private and shared spaces strike the ideal balance between the modern and the classic, with iPod docks and fast WiFi plus a muted, soothing decor. 

18. Nira Caledonia

Address: 6 and 10 Gloucester Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 6EF

Best for: Historical Georgian building

Nira Caledonia is situated in the sought-after Edinburgh suburb of Stockbridge, one of my favourite areas in Edinburgh.

This neighbourhood offers a local feel and lots of appealing places to eat, drink and shop. Plus close proximity to the Water of Leith and the New Town. Just beyond the latter is Princes Street, the city’s main thoroughfare. 

Compact and larger boutique-style rooms can be found within this property, offering modern luxuries like slate bathrooms, big plasma screen TVs and goose down bedding.

I love that some accommodation comes with a private garden area, a jacuzzi or dramatic full-length windows. 

If you’re looking for a chic bed and breakfast rather than a hotel, I can wholeheartedly recommend Crescent House.

This Georgian home is breathtaking beautiful and the hosts, Paul and Michael, are wonderful – this was the first place I ever stayed in Edinburgh and we’ve now become good friends!

Planning a trip to the Scottish capital? Discover more of my Edinburgh guides:

• 15 best things to in Edinburgh
• 8 amazing Edinburgh restaurants with a view
• 16 magical Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh
• Michelin restaurants in Edinburgh: ultimate guide
• 10 amazing cocktail bars in Edinburgh
• 15 cosy cafés in Edinburgh
• 10 amazing day trips from Edinburgh

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