I am aware that many visitors to a new city prefer to stay at established, internationally recognized hotel chains such as the Marriott or Radisson. However, Edinburgh has such a unique variety of high-quality boutique and locally owned establishments that I felt compelled to feature my favorites in this guide. I've also included a list of the best value for money hostels in the area. Note that prices per night are an average guide as they change with the high/low tourism seasons.
Hotels(in descending order from lowest to highest price per night)
The Grassmarket Hotel- (0131 220 2299), 94-96 Grassmarket, £55 per night
Located in the historic Old Town Grassmarket area, only two minutes walk from The Royal Mile. Quirky design, very friendly staff, comfortable bed, and you seriously can't beat the location. Can be a bit noisy as there are several pubs and restaurants across the street.
The Terrace Hotel- (0131 556 3423), 37 Royal Terrace, £60 per night
14 bedroom guest house in the New Town - 15 minutes walk from Princes Street. Elegant Georgian architecture, good views from most rooms of Terraces gardens or River Forth.
Malmaison- (0131 468 5000), 1 Tower Place (Leith), £85 per night
This is a stylish little hotel down by the Leith docks, and renowned both for its bold, beautiful decor. Most rooms have good views, and all include CD players and fresh flowers. The food is excellent!
The George Hotel- (0131 225 1251), 19-21 George St, £90 per night
Located in the New Town near Princes Street, 1/2 mile from Waverley train station & 8 miles from airport. Classic 18th century architecture but modernized rooms. Also, automatic pancake machine. Need I say more?
Hotel du Vin- (0131 247 4900), 11 Bristo Place, £99 per night
Set in a former lunatic asylum in the Old Town, it has chic contemporary decor, with lots of glass walls and a muted colour scheme, and all 47 rooms and suites come with enormous beds with hand-sprung mattresses, freestanding baths and monsoon showers. The Bistro, where an actual sommelier is on hand to help guests negotiate the extensive wine list, serves classic European cuisine with a modern twist.
The Scotsman- (0131 556 5565), 20 North Bridge, £150 per night
A fabulous location (on the North Bridge between the Old and New Towns), this was the original site of The Scotsman Newspaper offices. It's the only hotel in the city to boast views of Edinburgh Castle, The Firth of Forth, Leith, Princes Street and Calton Hill - all of which are within walking distance. It also has a state-of-the-art Spa and cinema.
The James Court Apartment- (0131 215 1104), James Court Royal Mile, £280 per night
I just had to include this little gem. My own family stayed here while visiting and absolutely loved it. Situated in an old 17th century building near the Castle, it's a little self-catering apartment that's packed with history and character. Exposed stone walls, spiral stairs, elegant furniture, plenty of light and a secret bookcase that turns into a bed. What more could you ask for?
The Witchery by the Castle- (0131 225 5613), Castlehill, £360 per night for 2 adults
I'm not sure where to begin with this one. 17th century palace meets 21st century amenities? Have a look at the rooms online, and you'll see what I mean. It's dark and gothic, theatrical and romantic, indulgent and quirky, but above all, magnificently luxurious. You'll need to book at least 8 months in advance for the privilege of experiencing all that this incredible place has to offer, as only 9 suites are available. If you can't wait, it also features a gorgeous 5-star restaurant done up in the same style called 'The Secret Garden' (and it's much more affordable). The Witchery is located on the Royal Mile in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.
Hostels
The Hostel-(0131 313 1031), 3 Clifton Terrace, £10 per bed per night
If IKEA did hostels, this is what they would look like. Clean, minimal and functional. Bright rooms and a funky terrace for those rare sunny days.
Smart City Hostel -(0131 524 1989), 50 Blackfriars Street, £10 per bed per night
My favorite of Edinburgh's hostels. Situated in an 18th century tenement that's been thoroughly modernized. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and there's a great bar/restaurant downstairs. It's also located right in the middle of the Old Town, within walking distance to just about everything. I can also say that they serve a great cheeseburger.
High Street Hostel- (0131 557 3894), 8 Blackfriars Street, £12 per bed per night
The original independent hostel, also located in the middle of the Old Town next to Smart City. Fantastic staff who will help with literally anything, free wifi, and great amenities.
Castle Rock Hostel- (0131 225 9666), 15 Johnston Terrace, £15 per bed per night
Situated in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, you can't beat this location for the price. Quirky interior, clean rooms, and friendly staff.