Best Places to Stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town: An Immersive Medieval Experience
When I first set foot in Edinburgh’s Old Town, I felt as though I had slipped into a living history book. Cobblestone streets glistened after a sudden Scottish drizzle, spires cut dramatically into the misty skyline, and centuries-old stone walls seemed to whisper stories of kings, poets, and rebels. Choosing to stay in the heart of the Old Town wasn’t just about convenience—it was about embracing the city’s medieval atmosphere fully, day and night.
Waking up in a room with views of Edinburgh Castle perched high on its volcanic rock, or looking out over the winding alleys of the Royal Mile, makes the city feel more than just a destination. It becomes an experience. Every accommodation here carries the weight of history, but with the comforts of modern travel thoughtfully woven in. Over several visits, I stayed in different hotels scattered across Old Town, each offering a distinct perspective on Edinburgh’s character.
Below, I’ll take you through my favorite five accommodations in Edinburgh’s Old Town. These aren’t just places to sleep—they’re portals into the city’s medieval soul. I’ll share their locations, features, costs, reviews, and practical booking tips, along with some personal anecdotes from my time there.
The Balmoral Hotel
Location: 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ (just at the eastern end of the Old Town, bridging the New Town and the Royal Mile)
Even before stepping inside, The Balmoral commands attention. Its clock tower rises above Princes Street, a symbol of timeless luxury and refinement. For me, it felt like a natural starting point—luxurious yet perfectly positioned to explore both Old and New Town.
Overview and Character
The Balmoral isn’t just a hotel; it’s an Edinburgh landmark. Built in 1902, its Victorian façade exudes grandeur, while inside, Scottish heritage meets modern luxury. My suite was filled with plush fabrics in muted tartan shades, marble bathrooms, and windows that opened directly toward Edinburgh Castle.
Why It Stands Out
- Michelin-starred dining at Number One – I had an unforgettable meal here, where every dish felt like a love letter to Scottish produce.
- Afternoon Tea at Palm Court – Sitting under the glass dome, sipping delicate teas while a harpist played, was one of my most serene afternoons in the city.
- Spa & Wellness – After long days of walking the cobbles, the spa’s heated pool and sauna were a blessing.
Reviews and Impressions
Guests often describe The Balmoral as “elegant but not intimidating.” That was exactly my experience—the staff were formal yet warm, eager to share insider tips for exploring Old Town.
Cost and Booking
Rooms often start at £350–£450 per night for a double, though deals can bring it closer to £300 in the off-season (January and February). Suites, of course, climb much higher.
I booked through Booking.com to secure a flexible cancellation policy, but Expedia UK sometimes offers package deals combining flights and hotel stays.
Booking Tip
Look out for the “advance purchase” discounts directly on The Balmoral’s website if your plans are firm. I also recommend checking Hotels.com Rewards—I managed to earn a free night after my Balmoral stay combined with other trips.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh
Location: 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1TH
When my goal was to live and breathe the Royal Mile, staying at the Radisson Blu felt like the perfect choice. The hotel sits directly on the most famous street in Old Town, right between St. Giles’ Cathedral and Holyrood Palace.
Overview and Character
The Radisson Blu has a contemporary interior, but its stone façade blends seamlessly with the medieval surroundings. My room had a minimalist design, yet from the window I could hear the distant sound of bagpipes from street performers below—a reminder that I was in the cultural heart of Scotland.
Why It Stands Out
- Unbeatable Location – I walked out the door and found myself in the middle of street performers, historic pubs, and tour groups.
- Indoor Pool and Fitness Centre – A rarity in central Old Town, and much appreciated after climbing Arthur’s Seat earlier in the day.
- Family-Friendly Rooms – During one stay, I saw families using the interconnecting suites, which is rare in smaller boutique properties.
Reviews and Impressions
Travelers often highlight the convenience, and I agree—it’s hard to find another hotel so perfectly placed for exploring Old Town on foot. Some describe the interior as “functional rather than character-filled,” but for me, the location outweighed any aesthetic simplicity.
Cost and Booking
Standard rooms average around £180–£220 per night, with rates climbing in August during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
I booked via Hotels.com during a promotion, stacking my free night rewards.
Booking Tip
Avoid August if possible—prices triple. If you must go during the festival, book 6–9 months in advance via Expedia UK or Booking.com to secure better deals.
Old Town Chambers
Location: Roxburgh’s Court, 323 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LW
For a taste of authentic medieval living with modern luxury, I stayed at Old Town Chambers. Nestled just off the Royal Mile, these serviced apartments combine historical charm with sleek design.
Overview and Character
Walking into my apartment felt like entering a secret hideaway. Exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and contemporary furniture coexisted beautifully. I could almost imagine merchants and nobles passing through the same corridors centuries ago.
Why It Stands Out
- Spacious Apartments – Perfect for longer stays or traveling with friends.
- Kitchen Facilities – I loved picking up fresh produce from the Grassmarket Market and cooking dinner at “home.”
- Historical Details – Some apartments incorporate original 15th-century stonework.
Reviews and Impressions
Guests consistently describe Old Town Chambers as “the best of both worlds”—immersive atmosphere without sacrificing comfort. I particularly loved the privacy after long days of sightseeing.
Cost and Booking
One-bedroom apartments start around £250–£300 per night, but when shared with friends, it becomes cost-effective.
I booked through Airbnb once and later through Booking.com—both gave great rates, but Booking had better cancellation flexibility.
Booking Tip
Stay at least three nights to make the most of the kitchen and space—it feels wasteful otherwise. Look for weekday stays outside festival season to save significantly.
The Witchery by the Castle
Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NF
If there’s one place that completely transported me to a medieval fantasy, it was The Witchery by the Castle. This boutique hotel, right beside Edinburgh Castle’s gates, feels like stepping into a Gothic novel.
Overview and Character
Each of the nine suites is uniquely designed with lavish décor: velvet drapes, gilded ceilings, four-poster beds, and candlelit corners. Staying here was more than indulgent—it was theatrical.
Why It Stands Out
- Atmosphere – No other hotel in Edinburgh Old Town captures the Gothic, mysterious vibe quite like this.
- Gourmet Dining – Their Witchery restaurant serves Scottish delicacies in an oak-panelled dining room that feels like a scene from Harry Potter.
- Exclusivity – With only nine suites, it feels deeply personal.
Reviews and Impressions
Travelers rave about its romance. I stayed here for one night as a special treat, and it truly felt like being inside a fairytale. Some say it’s “a little over the top,” but that’s precisely its charm.
Cost and Booking
Suites range from £400–£550 per night, making it one of the most expensive choices in Old Town.
I booked directly through their official site for a dinner-inclusive package—it was worth it.
Booking Tip
Ideal for couples or honeymooners. For maximum effect, book a suite with a castle view and dine at The Witchery restaurant in the evening.
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Location: 31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HS
Set in the historic Grassmarket area, beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel is the perfect balance between comfort, affordability, and location.
Overview and Character
The hotel is modern in style, with many rooms offering balconies that frame the castle dramatically above. I loved waking up, opening the curtains, and seeing the ancient fortress dominating the skyline.
Why It Stands Out
- Castle Views – Some of the best in Old Town for mid-range budgets.
- Swimming Pool – A rare amenity in this area.
- Vibrant Location – Surrounded by pubs, restaurants, and weekend markets.
Reviews and Impressions
Travelers praise it as “reliable and comfortable.” For me, it struck the right balance—I didn’t feel like I was overspending, yet I had a castle view from my room.
Cost and Booking
Rates hover around £150–£200 per night, though I snagged a winter deal at £120.
I booked through Expedia UK, which offered a bundled deal with my train ticket from London.
Booking Tip
Always request a castle-view room—it makes all the difference. Weekday stays are cheaper than weekends.
Practical Tips for Booking Accommodation in Edinburgh’s Old Town
- Book Early for Festivals – During August (Festival Fringe) and December (Christmas Markets, Hogmanay), hotels sell out 6–9 months in advance.
- Use Multiple Platforms – I compare rates on Booking.com, Expedia UK, and Hotels.com before deciding. Sometimes direct hotel websites offer perks like free breakfast.
- Travel Off-Season – November, January, and February often offer rooms at 30–40% less than summer.
- Bundle Flights and Hotels – Platforms like Expedia UK can save you significantly if you’re flying in from another UK city or Europe.
- Consider Apartments – For families or groups, serviced apartments like Old Town Chambers provide better value.
Staying in Edinburgh’s Old Town is not just about finding a bed for the night—it’s about letting the city’s history seep into every moment of your trip. Whether it’s waking up to the sound of bagpipes on the Royal Mile, gazing at the castle from your window, or dining in a candlelit Gothic hall, these hotels transform a visit into an unforgettable journey. Each time I return, I’m reminded that the Old Town isn’t just where Edinburgh’s story began—it’s where it continues to come alive.
