Edinburgh is easily my favourite city in Europe. It's modern in all the ways that keep the city clean, modern, and functional, but it's still old in all the ways that preserve its old European charm.
You really can't go wrong when picking a neighbourhood, because they all have something that makes them special and even the 'boring suburbs' here are not boring in the slightest. But each neighbourhood has its own personality and is perfect for different types of travellers. Here's a breakdown of the best neighbourhoods for visitors, what each one offers, and who should stay there.
Tips for Choosing Where to Stay
- If it's your first time in Edinburgh: Stay in Old Town or New Town. You'll be close to everything, and you can walk to most sights without needing buses or taxis.
- If you're on a budget: Look at Leith, Bruntsfield, or Morningside. Accommodation is cheaper, and you're still only a short bus ride from the centre.
- If you want a local, neighbourhood feel: Stockbridge or Leith are your best bets. You'll eat where locals eat, shop where locals shop, and avoid the tourist crowds.
- If you're visiting during festival season (August): Book early. Everywhere fills up fast, and prices skyrocket. Consider staying in a neighbourhood outside the centre (Leith, Stockbridge, Bruntsfield) to save money and avoid the chaos.
- If you don't want to deal with hills: Stay in New Town. Old Town is notoriously hilly and cobbled, which can be tough if you're lugging suitcases or have mobility issues.
Where to Stay (Before It’s Fully Booked)
Location Map
All locations mentioned in this blog are pinned here so you can visualize your trip!Quick Neighbourhood Comparison
| Neighbourhood | Best For | Distance to City Centre |
|---|---|---|
| Old Town | First-timers, history lovers | 0 min (you're here) |
| New Town | Shoppers, central convenience | 5-10 min walk |
| Leith | Foodies, local vibes, budget | 15-20 min bus/tram |
| Stockbridge | Quiet, village charm | 10-15 min walk |
| Bruntsfield/Morningside | Families, budget, quiet | 15-20 min bus/walk |
Old Town: Historic Heart of Edinburgh
Best For: First-time visitors, history lovers, and people who want to be in the thick of it.
The Old Town is Edinburgh's medieval core. Cobbled streets, gothic architecture, hidden closes (narrow alleyways), and tourist energy everywhere. If you want to be within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and centuries-old pubs, this is where to stay.
What You'll Find:
- Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill
- The Royal Mile running from the castle to Holyrood Palace
- Victoria Street (the colourful, curved street that inspired Diagon Alley)
- Grassmarket (historic square filled with pubs, cafés, and market stalls)
- St. Giles' Cathedral, the National Museum of Scotland, and countless other landmarks
- Tons of restaurants, pubs, souvenir shops, and street performers
The Vibe: Busy. Crowded. Atmospheric. Old Town is where tourists congregate, especially during festival season (August). It's lively, historic, and visually stunning, but it's also loud and can feel overwhelming if you prefer quiet.
Pros:
- You're right in the middle of everything
- Walking distance to all major sights
- Tons of dining and drinking options
- Easy access to public transport (Waverley Station is right here)
Cons:
- Expensive accommodation
- Very touristy (lots of souvenir shops, bagpipe buskers, crowds)
- Can be noisy, especially near Grassmarket and Cowgate
- Streets are hilly and uneven (cobblestones everywhere)
Who Should Stay Here: First-time visitors who want to maximize sightseeing time and don't mind paying a premium for location. If you're only in Edinburgh for 1-2 days, staying in Old Town makes the most sense.
Code Pod Hostels
Modern hostel in Edinburgh's Old Town, steps from the Royal Mile and Real Mary King's Close. Features 24-hour front desk and daily à la carte breakfast. Walking distance to Edinburgh Castle (600m), National Museum of Scotland, and Camera Obscura. 11 km from Edinburgh Airport. Couples rate the location 9.9 for central access to historic sites.Check Availability
Radisson Blu Hotel
Upscale hotel with spa, indoor heated pool, sauna, and fitness centre. Rooms include free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, private bathrooms with toiletries, and work areas. Features Itchycoo Bar and Kitchen overlooking the Royal Mile, plus Scottish breakfast restaurant. 5-minute walk to Waverley Station, 10 minutes to Edinburgh Castle, 500m to Princes Street. 24-hour front desk and business centre. Couples rate location 9.7.Check Availability
Mono Suites
Central Edinburgh aparthotel with family rooms featuring full kitchens (fridge, microwave), private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, city views, dining areas, sofa beds, and work desks. Express check-in/out, streaming services, and free toiletries included. 3-minute walk to National Museum of Scotland, 17 minutes to Edinburgh Castle, 500m to Waverley Station. Near Arthur's Seat (2.4 km) and water sports. Couples rate location 9.1.Check AvailabilityNew Town: Georgian Elegance and Shopping
Best For: Shoppers, foodies, people who want a central location without the chaos
New Town sits just across Princes Street from Old Town, but despite its name, it's not new. It was built in the late 1700s and early 1800s as a planned Georgian expansion. Wide streets, elegant townhouses, high-end shopping, and a more refined vibe than Old Town.
What You'll Find:
- Princes Street (main shopping street with big brands like H&M, Zara, John Lewis)
- George Street (upscale boutiques, restaurants, cocktail bars, nightlife)
- Scottish National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Scotland
- Charlotte Square (beautiful Georgian square with gardens and historic homes)
The Vibe: Polished. Cosmopolitan. Less medieval charm than Old Town, but still central and convenient. New Town feels more "city" and less "historic village."
Pros:
- Central location, 5-10 minute walk to Old Town
- Better for shopping and upscale dining
- Quieter than Old Town but still walkable to everything
- Flat, wide streets (easier to navigate than Old Town's hills)
Cons:
- Still pricey (though slightly cheaper than Old Town)
- Less "Edinburgh character" than Old Town
- Can feel more generic if you're looking for that historic Scottish vibe
Who Should Stay Here: People who want central convenience without Old Town's tourist chaos. Good for families, shoppers, and anyone who prefers a more modern, organized neighbourhood.
Frederick House Hotel
Georgian townhouse in central Edinburgh with elegant 4-star rooms featuring flat-screen TVs, fridges, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities, and local guides. Breakfast served at Rabble across the street (7:30-11:30 AM), with 20% discount for lunch/dinner. 5-minute walk to Princes Street, 15 minutes to Royal Mile, Waverley Station, and Edinburgh Castle. Private bathrooms in all rooms. Couples rate location 9.5.Check Availability
Rutland Hotel
Luxurious hotel on West End of Princes Street with Edinburgh Castle views. Stylish rooms feature free Wi-Fi, surround sound, flat-screen TV, bathrobes, GHD stylers, homemade shortbread, real coffee, and designer teas. Late-lounge and unique restaurant with glass wine cellar. Between shopping and financial districts. 10-minute walk to EICC, 15 minutes to Scott Monument and Edinburgh Castle via Princes Street Gardens. Couples rate location 9.9.Check Availability
Eden Locke
Modern aparthotel on George Street with 72 studios and suites featuring full kitchens (dishwasher, oven, microwave, toaster, fridge, stovetop), lounge areas, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Ground-floor café and coworking space. Ideal for longer stays. Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, and shopping on doorstep. 1.2 km to Royal Mile and Edinburgh Military Tattoo. 11.6 km from Edinburgh Airport. Couples rate location 9.6.Check AvailabilityLeith: Trendy Waterfront District
Best For: Foodies, craft beer fans, budget travellers, people who want a local vibe
Leith is Edinburgh's historic port district, located about 2-3 km north of the city centre. Once gritty and industrial, it's now one of Edinburgh's trendiest neighbourhoods, with waterfront restaurants, craft breweries, independent shops, and a slower pace than the city centre.
What You'll Find:
- The Shore (waterfront lined with pubs and seafood restaurants)
- Royal Yacht Britannia (former royal yacht, now a museum)
- Ocean Terminal (shopping centre with cinema and restaurants)
- Tons of independent cafés, bakeries, and brunch spots
- Michelin-starred restaurants (The Kitchin, Martin Wishart)
The Vibe: Hip. Artsy. Local. Leith feels like a separate town rather than part of Edinburgh. It's got a creative, working-class feel that's an interesting contrast to the touristic feel in the old town.
Pros:
- Cheaper accommodation than Old Town or New Town
- Great food scene (especially seafood)
- Less touristy, more authentic
- Easy bus or tram ride to the city centre (15-20 minutes)
Cons:
- Not walkable to main sights (you'll need to take a bus or tram)
- Some parts still feel rough around the edges
- Less "Edinburgh charm" if you're looking for castles and cobblestones
Who Should Stay Here: Foodies, craft beer enthusiasts, budget travellers, or anyone who wants to experience Edinburgh like a local rather than a tourist. Good for longer stays (3+ days) when you don't need to be right by the castle every day.
Ocean Mist Leith
Modern hotel in Leith with air-conditioned, soundproofed rooms featuring river views, private bathrooms, tea/coffee makers, and free toiletries. Sun terrace, bar, free Wi-Fi, and outdoor seating. Private check-in/out, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, and full-day security. Short walk to Royal Yacht Britannia. 3.2 km to Edinburgh Waverley, 4.7 km to Edinburgh Castle, 13 km from airport. Sailing and boating nearby. Couples rate location 9.7.Check Availability
Malmaison Edinburgh
Boutique hotel on Forth riverbanks in Leith with state-of-the-art gym, free parking, and stylish bar. Individually designed rooms feature luxurious beds, satellite TV, free internet, and many have port views. Malmaison Brasserie serves British classics with local produce. Well-stocked wine cellar, Mal Bar for cocktails, and a terrace for al fresco dining. 10 minutes' drive to Edinburgh city centre. Couples rate the location 9.2.Check Availability
Holiday Inn Express
Modern hotel next to Ocean Terminal and Royal Yacht Britannia with paid parking and regular city buses outside. Air-conditioned rooms include power showers, Freeview TVs, USB ports, work desks, tea/coffee facilities, iron/board. Free buffet breakfast, 24-hour pizza service, all-day dining with paninis, soup, burgers. Free Wi-Fi lounge, bar with craft beers and wines. 2.5 miles to city centre attractions. 12 km from airport. Couples rate location 8.6.Check AvailabilityStockbridge: Village Charm Within the City
Best For: People who want quiet, local vibes, weekend markets, leafy walks
Stockbridge sits just north of New Town, along the Water of Leith. It feels like a small village tucked inside Edinburgh, with independent shops, weekend markets, cozy B&Bs, and tree-lined streets. Quiet, charming, and still close to the centre.
What You'll Find:
- Stockbridge Market (Sunday market with local produce, artisan goods, street food)
- Circus Lane (Instagram-famous cobbled mews street)
- Water of Leith Walkway (peaceful riverside path perfect for walks or runs)
- Royal Botanic Garden (short walk away)
- Independent bookshops, cafés, bakeries, and antique stores
The Vibe: Relaxed, residential, and more village-like than city. Stockbridge attracts families, creatives, and people who want to feel like they're living in Edinburgh rather than just visiting.
Pros:
- Quiet and charming without being far from the action
- Great cafés and independent shops
- Leafy, walkable neighbourhood
- 10-15 minute walk to New Town, 20 minutes to Old Town
Cons:
- Fewer big hotels (mostly B&Bs and small guesthouses)
- Not ideal if you want to roll out of bed and be at the castle in 5 minutes
- Slightly more expensive than Leith, cheaper than Old Town
Who Should Stay Here: People who prefer a slower pace, families, couples looking for a quieter base, or anyone who wants to feel less like a tourist. Good for longer stays when you want a neighbourhood to settle into.
Garden Rooms
Garden Rooms Edinburgh is housed in a historic building, offering a sun terrace, garden, and open-air bath. Guests enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, terrace, outdoor seating, luggage storage, and paid off-site parking. Located 11 km from Edinburgh Airport, an 18-minute walk from the Royal Mile, and 2 km from Edinburgh Waverley station. Nearby attractions include the Edinburgh Playhouse and Edinburgh Castle. Couples rate the location 9.7 for two-person trips.Check Availability
Nira Caledonia
Georgian townhouse in New Town with individually designed rooms featuring 42-inch plasma TVs, slate bathrooms, luxury goose feather beds, and down pillows. Some rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, private gardens, or spa baths. In-room breakfast available. Restaurant and bar serve Scottish cuisine with organic ingredients, plus 25+ Scotch whiskies. 800m from Princes Street. No elevator (5 floors) or air conditioning. Couples rate location 9.4.Check Availability
Ardenlee Guest House
Elegant Victorian townhouse (built 1871) in New Town, half mile from Princes Street. Family-run with spacious rooms (most en-suite, some shared bathrooms) featuring TVs, radios, free tea/coffee, and free Wi-Fi. Continental breakfast served in bright dining room. 1 mile to Waverley Station and Edinburgh Castle. Scottish Gallery and other galleries within 0.5 miles. Couples rate location 8.9.Check AvailabilityBruntsfield & Morningside: Residential and Relaxed
Best For: Families, budget travellers, people who want quiet and local cafés
Bruntsfield and Morningside sit south of the city centre, just past The Meadows (a large park). These are leafy, residential neighbourhoods full of coffee shops, bakeries, indie boutiques, and local pubs. Less touristy, more lived-in.
What You'll Find:
- The Meadows (huge park perfect for picnics, frisbee, or running)
- Bruntsfield Links (historic public golf course)
- Independent cafés, bakeries, bookshops, and charity shops
- Local pubs and neighbourhood restaurants
- Easy access to Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
The Vibe: Quiet and family-friendly. You won't find many tourists here, which is either a pro or a con depending on what you're looking for.
Pros:
- Cheaper accommodation (mostly B&Bs and guesthouses)
- Quiet, safe, and residential
- Great local cafés and bakeries
- 15-20 minute walk or quick bus to the city centre
Cons:
- Not walkable to major sights (you'll need a bus)
- Limited nightlife or big restaurants
- Less "Edinburgh character" if you're looking for historic architecture
Who Should Stay Here: Families, budget travellers, or anyone who wants a quiet, local neighbourhood without the tourist crowds. Good for longer stays or if you're visiting friends/family in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Houseboats
Edinburgh - Houseboats offers 4-star boat accommodation in Edinburgh city centre with a sun terrace, a garden, and free WiFi. Features include private check-in/out, paid shuttle service, outdoor play area, bicycle parking, barbecue, breakfast in room, and luggage storage. Located 8 km from Edinburgh Airport, walking distance to Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and Edinburgh Waverley station.Check Availability
The Bruntsfield Hotel
Townhouse hotel near UNESCO World Heritage city centre with views across Bruntsfield Links and Meadows parks. Spacious rooms feature flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, work desks, seating areas, and private bathrooms. The Neighbourhood Kitchen, Bar and Garden serves fine food. Limited parking, EV charging point, and free WiFi throughout. 15-minute walk to Edinburgh Castle, 20 minutes to Princes Street shopping. Couples rate location 9.1.Check Availability
Black Ivy
Lively bar hotel overlooking Bruntsfield Links park, 15-minute walk from city centre. Rooms include en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, tea/coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi. 9-minute walk to Edinburgh International Conference Centre, 15 minutes to Usher Hall and University of Edinburgh. Boutique shops and cafés nearby. Edinburgh Castle less than 1 mile away. 1.3 miles to St. James Centre shopping. Couples rate location 9.1.Check Availability
Lovely Main Door
Ground-floor two-bedroom apartment with private entrance and parquet floors. Full kitchen (dishwasher, microwave), washing machine, free Wi-Fi, and free off-site parking. Patio with garden views, outdoor furniture, and dining area. 17-minute walk to Edinburgh International Conference Centre, 2.1 km to Edinburgh Castle, 2.2 km to National Museum of Scotland. Water sports (boating, kayaking, canoeing) nearby. 11 km from airport. Couples rate location 9.1.Check AvailabilityBest Deals
Booking.com is our go-to for accommodation pretty much everywhere. You can search all the available properties and seasonal discounts here.
Final Thoughts
What neighbourhood in Edinburgh resonates with you probably says more about you than your star sign. Old Town and New Town put you right in the middle of the action, but come with crowds and higher prices. Leith, Stockbridge, and Bruntsfield offer quieter, more local vibes at lower costs, but you'll need to factor in bus rides.
Don't worry if you get there and realize you mesh better with a different neighbourhood than the one you chose. Edinburgh is compact. Even if you stay outside the centre, you're never more than 20 minutes from the main sights and the other neighbourhoods. Pick the neighbourhood that matches your priorities, whether that's convenience, budget, quiet, or local charm, and you'll have a great base for exploring Scotland's capital.
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