The Royal Mile, the Castle in the Old Town to the elegant Georgian facades, the bustle of George St in the New Town, and the winding back alleys peppered with book shops and cafes, Edinburgh has it all. From grandeur to simplicity, historic sites to contemporary dwellings, there truly is something for everyone in this magical city. For history buffs and architectural admirers, Edinburgh has the highest concentration of listed buildings out of anywhere in the world but it doesn’t stop there. With an ever-evolving calendar of events including the famous Fringe Festival and Hogmanay, the only problem you will have here is deciding how to spend your time. For the eaters and drinkers, there are more pubs, bars and restaurants than you can shake a bagpipe at. From elegant fine dining to rustic and wholesome catch of the day, the city is a food lovers dream and of course, everything should be washed down with a wee dram. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the city.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

100 Princes Street

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: A whisky tasting is a must of which they have three whisky experiences at the hotel to enjoy
At a glance
Rooms 30 Guest Rooms & Suites with Custom Tartans & Bespoke Furnishings, Including Outdoor Terrace Suites & Two Signature Suites
Amenities Residents Only, The Wallace Dining Room & Ghillie's Pantry, Over 200 Whiskies, Personalised Service
More Located on Princes Street with views over Prince Street Gardens & Edinburgh Castle

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 the latest addition to 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.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street

Hotel
(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.

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Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street

South Side, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

The Scott

Hotel
(4 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: dinner in Bonnar's is a must, the rococo ballroom setting is beautiful
At a glance
Rooms 36 individually Styled Bedrooms & Junior Suites
Amenities Incredible Fine Dining Experience Bonnar's at The Scott & Cocktail Bar The Velvet Lounge, Free Parking, EV Charging
More Former 18th-Century Baronial Mansion Located within the Historic Pollock Estate next to Holyrood Park

The Scott Hotel provides a sophisticated retreat located within the historic Pollock Estate next to Holyrood Park and is approx. 20-minutes’ walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town. A former 18th-century baronial mansion originally built in the 1750s for merchant Alexander Scott has been meticulously restored to a beautiful boutique hotel within tranquil landscaped grounds. The hotel features 36 individually styled bedrooms and junior suites with striking marble-tiled bathrooms and contemporary furnishings. For guests who desire extra space and privacy, the Gatehouse offers a standalone cottage experience complete with a fully equipped kitchen and lounge.

Dining at the Scott Hotel is a must – the Bonnar’s Restaurant, led by Head Chef Pier Berretta, serves modern Scottish cuisine from an a la carte or tasting menu. Set in a stunning rococo-style ballroom guests can expect a warm and welcoming ambience and the Velvet Lounge is the perfect place for a relaxed drink, where a carefully selected menu of whiskies, wines and cocktails awaits.

Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

The Resident Edinburgh

Hotel
(4 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Take a moment to relax in the idyllic library or enjoy a glass of wine in the stylish lounge area
At a glance
Rooms 164 Guest Rooms with Mini-Kitchens
Amenities In-Room Mini-Kitchen, In-Room Groceries, Resident Insiders
More Located in the heart of Edinburgh's West End

The Resident Edinburgh, located in Edinburgh’s lively West End, provides both subtle elegance and carefully considered design. This boutique hotel is suitable for travellers looking for a classy but understated hideaway, with a focus on personalised service and attention to detail. It is conveniently located within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens, making it an excellent starting point for experiencing the city’s rich history and culture. The rooms and suites at The Resident Edinburgh are thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience, with sleek, modern decor and well-appointed amenities. Each room features a mini kitchen with a microwave, fridge, and Nespresso machine, making it ideal for both short and long visits. The hotel’s warm, friendly ambience and attentive team provide a stay that is both personal and memorable, providing a thoughtful perspective on luxury in one of the world’s most attractive cities.

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The Resident Edinburgh

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Gleneagles Townhouse

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Head to Lamplighters rooftop cocktail bar exclusive to members and hotel guests for a pre or post dinner cocktail
At a glance
Rooms 33 Rooms & Suites With City Or Square Views Offer Heritage Style Blended With Modern Luxury.
Amenities Rooftop Bar With Panoramic Views Boutique Wellness With Cryotherapy Gym With Classes & Private Members Facilities Provide An Elevated Urban Stay.
More Located In A Restored Georgian Building In The Heart Of Edinburgh Overlooking St Andrew Square.

The century-old Perthshire spa resort brings its famous quintessential Scottish luxury to the heart of Edinburgh. In 2022 the brand completed the refurbishment of the iconic former Bank of Scotland HQ, a Grade A-listed building on St Andrew Square. The boutique property has a small number of bedrooms decorated in a modern style, but reflecting a timeless Georgian townhouse elegance. Guests and the general public can mingle in The Spence, an art deco all-day dining establishment, or in the rooftop bar. The bank’s old vault accommodates the wellness area, including a cryotherapy chamber and infrared sauna.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Intercontinental Edinburgh The George, An IHG Hotel

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Enjoy the finest cuts of beef from around the world and dine at on-site restaurant Le Petit Beefbar
At a glance
Rooms 239 Rooms & 13 Suites Including Junior & One Bedroom Options With Georgian Elegance & Modern Comfort.
Amenities Features Include A Steakhouse & Caf, 24-Hour Fitness Centre, Pet-Friendly Accommodations, & Club Lounge Access For Suite Guests.
More Located On Edinburgh's Prestigious George Street Within Historic Georgian Townhouses Dating Back To 1775.

Elegance and grandeur have long been associated with this historic hotel that is located on George Street in Edinburgh – a convenient setting to explore the great city. Set over five townhouses that date back to 1881, the hotel presents a range of rooms and suites (240 in total) all of which are relaxed, warm and welcoming. Destination restaurant Le Petit Beefbar at InterContinental Edinburgh The George marks the brand’s first-ever foray into Scotland, here guests can experience some of the best cuts in the world, surrounded by the classically chic décor of the magnificent dining room. For a light bite or caffeine fix Burr & Co is the perfect pitstop. Extensive meeting, conference and event spaces along with private dining facilities makes this hotel a popular choice for a great variety of business and leisure occasions.

 

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Intercontinental Edinburgh The George, An IHG Hotel

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Kimpton Charlotte Square

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Don't miss free happy hour every day from 5pm in the bar
At a glance
Rooms 199 Rooms & 18 Suites Are Offered Including Exclusive Accommodations In A Private Townhouse.
Amenities Facilities Include A Spa With Indoor Pool & Sound Wellness Room A Fully Equipped Gym Multiple Dining Options A Pet-Friendly Policy & Chauffeur Service.
More Located In Edinburgh's New Town The Hotel Overlooks A Private Garden Square & Is Within Walking Distance Of Major Attractions.

The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, located in the city’s historic New Town, combines classic Georgian architecture with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a fitness centre, spa, and Tesla chauffeur service. The hotel features eclectically styled rooms and suites with luxurious details and innovative technology. Dining options include The Garden for cocktails and light fare, BABA for Levant-inspired dishes, and Aizle for seasonal tasting menus. The hotel is also pet-friendly and offers unique experiences like sound therapy suites and personal shopping services.

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Kimpton Charlotte Square

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Nira Caledonia

Hotel
(4 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 26 Individually Styled Rooms & Suites Including Options With Jacuzzi Bathtubs & Garden Views.
Amenities On-Site Dining Featuring Locally Sourced Scottish Cuisine & A Selection Of 25 Whiskies.
More Located In Edinburgh's New Town Within A UNESCO World Heritage Site Offering Easy Access To City Attractions.

Stay in an elegant New Town Georgian townhouse with 26 rooms, which, like The Dunstane Houses, are spread across two buildings. Nira Caledonia offers a Jacuzzi Suite, ideal for soothing tired legs after a day of exploring the city’s cobbled streets. All rooms and suites come with PMD Tea, minibars, 2,000-pocket sprung beds, goose-down pillows and L’Occitane toiletries as standard. The hotel boasts its very own 12-year-old ultra-limited edition whisky, bottled in partnership with Adelphi Distillery and served onsite. Guests can try the tipple and dine at Blackwoods Bar & Grill, which has a farm or fishery-to-fork ethos (around 40% of the menu ingredients come from Scotland).

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

W Edinburgh

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Head to speakeasy Joao’s Place for a late night cocktail with amazing views of the city
At a glance
Rooms 244 Rooms Including 45 Suites With Select Accommodations Offering Private Terraces & Panoramic City Views.
Amenities Dining Options Feature Fusion Cuisine, A Rooftop Bar With 360-Degree Views, A Wellness Centre With Themed Treatment Rooms, & A Fully Equipped Fitness Centre.
More Located In Edinburgh's St James Quarter Providing Direct Access To Shopping, Dining, & Cultural Attractions.

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.

Prestonfield, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Prestonfield House

Hotel
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Go all out with a stay in the owners suite, which includes its own entranceway and spiral staircase.
At a glance
Rooms 23 Uniquely Furnished Rooms & Suites including Themed Lord Provost Suite & the Winston Churchill Suite
Amenities Rhubarb Restaurant Serving Fine Scottish Cuisine & a Cozy Whisky Room offering Rare Malts
More Situated Minutes from Edinburgh's Old Town Surrounded by 20 acres of Gardens & Parkland Providing a Secluded Retreat within the City

Prestonfield House is a unique 5-star hotel that seamlessly blends opulence, theatricality, and luxury within one of Edinburgh’s most charming historic buildings and has been operating since the 1950s. This exclusive haven, presided over by James Thomson, marries the serenity and seclusion of a country estate with the vibrancy of urban Edinburgh. Set within 20 acres of beautiful, manicured gardens, with views across the nearby majestic Arthur’s Seat guests can enjoy the tranquillity of the green open space. Yet just a mere five-minute jaunt from the heart of Edinburgh, those seeking to explore the city can easily do so.

Each of the 18 lavish bedrooms and five romantic suites showcases individual features and character, adorned with one-of-a-kind antique furnishings and distinctive feature beds with the antique theme flowing throughout the hotel. The destination restaurant, Rhubarb, presents guests with the choice of private dining rooms, lavish salons, and grand public spaces – not to mention the fine seasonal cuisine they serve. The level of service and hospitality is impeccable, personal yet professional.

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

Cheval The Edinburgh Grand

Apartments
(5 stars)
TLE Icon TLE Recommends: Head to the register club on the forth floor for a cocktail
At a glance
Rooms 50 Modern Apartments, Suites some with Terraces & a Penthouse
Amenities On Site Dining at Hawksmoor, The Register Club, a Cavefit Gym in a Historic Vault, Fully Equipped Kitchens
More Centrally Located on St Andrew Square in Edinburgh's New Town

A former bank, this restored 19th-century building on St Andrew’s Square now accommodates high-end apartments. These range in size from studios to three-bedroom residences, providing a home-away-from-home experience during a longer stay. The apartments are serviced daily and include Nespresso machines. Cook in your own space, or eat in-house at The Register Club, with its top-floor (and top drawer) Art Deco ambience and creative libations. And you’re only steps from multiple eateries for fine or family dining. Travelling with your four-legged friend? They’ll get their own bed, blanket, toys and treats on arrival. 

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Cheval The Edinburgh Grand

New Town, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland

The Balmoral

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 167 Rooms & 20 Suites with Scottish-inspired Decor
Amenities Fine Dining & Brasserie Dining options, Comprehensive Spa & Wellness Centre with indoor Pool & Fitness Facilities, & Pet-Friendly
More Perfectly Positioned on Princes Street, next to Waverley Station

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.





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