Best Luxury Hotels On Princes Street
Princes Street, located in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, is one of the city’s most famous thoroughfares. Running parallel to Edinburgh Castle, it offers stunning views of the historic fortress and the picturesque Princes Street Gardens. Notable landmarks along Princes Street include the Scott Monument, a striking Gothic structure dedicated to the renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, and the iconic Balmoral Hotel with its majestic clock tower. During the festive season, the street transforms into a winter wonderland with vibrant markets and an enchanting ice rink, adding to its charm and appeal. Here are our favourite 5 star and luxury hotels in the city.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
100 Princes Street
(5 stars)
TLE Recommends: Experience one of the best private whisky tastings in Edinburgh from their whisky room, Ghillies Pantry Located on Edinburgh’s most famous thoroughfares and offering what has to be one of the most enviable vistas of Edinburgh from any hotel window, 100 Princes Street is part of the family-owned Red Carnation Hotels collection, and arguably its most exclusive. Evocative of a private members’ club and a celebration of Scottish exploration, the property features 30 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, ‘The Wallace’ dining room, bar and lounge and ‘Ghillie’s Pantry’, an elegant private dining space offering over 200 whiskies along with custom whisky experiences.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
The Balmoral
(5 stars)
TLE Recommends: Their fine dining restaurant Number One's tasting menu with matching wines makes for an unforgettable night of food and drink Sitting at the crossroads of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and Georgian New Town, The Balmoral meaning ‘majestic dwelling’ in Gaelic is more than just a hotel, it’s one of the Scottish capital’s most iconic landmarks.A true masterpiece of Scottish Baronial design, its exterior is a romanticised interpretation of medieval Scottish castles brought to life through its warm sandstone façade. While intricate carvings along with decorative turrets, gables and ornate columns, all add to its sense of history and grandeur. A masterpiece outside is equally matched inside, including 187 rooms, suites and one-of-a-kind signature suites including the J.K Rowling Suite where the novelist herself finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Experience award-winning fine dining at Number One, sophisticated Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court, stylish brasserie dining and bar Brasserie Prince, and an exceptional whisky collection at SCOTCH. The Balmoral Spa adds to the experience with indulgent treatments, making the hotel a true resort-like escape in the heart of the city.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, West End
The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton
(5 stars)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.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
W Edinburgh
(5 stars)
TLE Recommends: There is nowhere more spectacular in Edinburgh for a sunset cocktail that the W Deck and Lounge on the hotels top floors. 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.
Scotland, Lothian, Edinburgh, New Town
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street
(4 stars)Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street. This boutique hotel, located on Princes 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.
