Best Luxury Hotels On Princes Street

Liveried doormen await those arriving to stay this grand dame, Edinburgh’s most famous hotel. The Balmoral stands sentinel over the city, straddling the Old and New Towns from its sizeable perch on Princes Street and North Bridge. Steps from Waverley Station and a minute’s walk from the Royal Mile, its location is hard to beat for tourists. The Number One restaurant has a Michelin-star, art pieces lent by London’s Royal College of Art and a Scottish oak triptych. Brasserie Prince caters for relaxed meals, with its French menu, lamps and banquette seating. And Palm Court is the regal setting for The Balmoral’s award-winning Afternoon Tea.

Red Carnation Hotels introduces its first Scottish venture—100 Princes Street in Edinburgh. This boutique hotel, set in the heart of the city with views of Edinburgh Castle, celebrates Scotland’s cultural heritage. Once the Royal Overseas League headquarters, it now offers historical charm and modern luxury under Resident Manager Laura Jamieson.

The hotel, designed by Toni Tollman, blends historical architecture with contemporary comforts. Highlights include bespoke artworks and a mural by Croxford and Saunders, reflecting the spirit of Scottish explorers.

The 30 rooms and suites, named after explorers like Archibald Menzies, offer luxury and stunning castle views. The Wallace, the hotel’s dining area led by chef Willhelm Maree, features local delicacies and whisky tastings. Ghillie’s Pantry provides a private dining experience with over 100 whiskies and a celestial-themed mural.

Guests can enjoy bespoke Scottish experiences, from crafting gin to fishing on the River Tweed. 100 Princes Street promises a luxurious and authentic Scottish stay, making it a top destination in Edinburgh.

Housed in a Victorian building that dates back to 1903, this hotel is considered to be one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and was one of the British grand railway hotels. Nowadays The Caledonian is perhaps most renowned for its excellent cuisine. Dean Banks at The Pompadour, the flagship restaurant by a star of TV’s Masterchef, has been awarded a coveted Michelin star. Then there’s Grazing by Mark Greenaway and Peacock Alley for drinks and snacks. This Curio Collection property also offers a Guerlain Spa, with treatments using 111SKIN face and body products. 

W Edinburgh opened in November 2023 and has revolutionised the city’s hospitality scene. Located in the vibrant St James Quarter, this Marriott Bonvoy property combines Edinburgh’s rich history with modern luxury. The hotel features three distinct buildings, Ribbon Building, James Craig Walk, and Quarter House, each offering a unique perspective of the city. Its innovative design includes references to the city’s cultural, historic, and geographical aspects and the unique rooftop W deck rewards visitors with the finest unfettered 360-degree views of Edinburgh and beyond. Inside, elements of fire, water, and local materials create a compelling narrative. W Edinburgh has also introduced exciting dining experiences and social spaces, including Scotland’s first SUSHISAMBA restaurant celebrating Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine, the signature W Lounge ideal for all-day dining, and a secret speakeasy bar, João’s Place serving creative cocktails and premium spirits.

Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street. This boutique hotel, located on Princess Street in the heart of Edinburgh’ with views looking out across the Old Town, offers 64 uniquely designed rooms inspired by the city’s rich literary history, featuring cosy armchairs, vibrant decor, and stunning city views. Savour mouth-watering dishes at the award-winning Twenty Princes Street Grill & Smokehouse, renowned for its locally sourced ingredients and innovative menu. For a more relaxed setting, Juniper Bar provides creative cocktails with a backdrop of panoramic city vistas. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers, Hotel Indigo boasts top-notch amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, a well-equipped fitness centre, and versatile meeting spaces.

Read our expert review here.