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Hotel Guide 2025

Best Hotels in Edinburgh: Old Town vs New Town (2025)

Edinburgh is a tale of two cities: the medieval maze of the Old Town and the georgian grandeur of the New Town. Choosing a side is your first decision.

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Quick Price Comparison

HotelLocationStylePrice
The BalmoralPrinces St (Border)Iconic Luxury£400+
The WitcheryRoyal Mile (Old Town)Gothic Romance£500+
Eden LockeGeorge St (New Town)Pastel Aparthotel£120+
Motel One PrincesPrinces StBudget with Views£90+
Apex GrassmarketGrassmarketCastle Views£130+

Top Picks Reviewed

JK Rowling Fans / Luxury
1 Princes Street
The Balmoral
£350 - £800

Why Stay Here

  • It's the grandest hotel in Scotland
  • Located directly above Waverley Station
  • Michelin-starred dining

Things to Note

  • Very expensive
  • Can feel touristy
Romance (Gothic)
Royal Mile
The Witchery by the Castle
£450 - £600

Why Stay Here

  • Incredible baroque suites (velvet walls, antiques)
  • Hidden in a historic close
  • Pure atmosphere

Things to Note

  • No elevator (historic building)
  • Dark rooms (intentional style)
Instagram / Design
George Street (New Town)
Eden Locke
£110 - £160

Why Stay Here

  • Beautiful pastel interiors
  • Full kitchen in every room
  • Great coffee shop in lobby

Things to Note

  • Not 'traditional' Scottish style
  • New Town location is further from Castle
Families
Grassmarket (Old Town)
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
£120 - £180

Why Stay Here

  • Some rooms have incredible direct Castle views
  • Pool and gym onsite
  • Right in the lively Grassmarket square

Things to Note

  • Decor is a bit corporate
  • Grassmarket can be noisy at night

Old Town or New Town?

Old Town

Medieval/Tourist

Cobbled streets, the Castle, and Harry Potter vibes. Stay here for history, but expect hills and crowds.

New Town

Georgian/Shopping

Wide streets, high-end shops, and cocktail bars. Flatter and more elegant.

Leith

Cool/Foodie

The port area. 15 mins by tram. Home to Michelin stars and hip cafes. Cheaper hotels.

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