Top reasons to visit Old Town Edinburgh
- Historical Landmarks: Explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, which showcase the city's rich heritage.
- Cobbled Streets: Wander through charming, cobbled streets filled with fascinating stories and friendly locals.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy a variety of activities, including classical concerts and theatre performances.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Old Town offers engaging experiences suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses catering to different needs and preferences.
Find great hotels near Old Town Edinburgh
Discover the charm of Old Town Edinburgh with a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit your needs. Whether you seek a pet-friendly haven, a welcoming space for LGBTQIA travellers, or a convenient base for business trips, you’ll find an array of hotels and guesthouses. Experience the best hotels in Edinburgh, where comfort meets history, all while being moments away from the city’s iconic landmarks.
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel: A 4-star hotel with a remarkable guest rating of 9.0, Apex Grassmarket Hotel is situated 805m from Old Town Edinburgh. This eco-certified property is ideal for travellers seeking a sustainable and business-friendly environment. With a contemporary design that reflects the vibrant atmosphere of Edinburgh, guests can enjoy modern amenities including a fitness centre and on-site dining. The hotel's commitment to eco-friendliness makes it a great choice for environmentally conscious visitors.
- Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: With an impressive guest rating of 9.2, Apex Waterloo Place Hotel is a 4-star accommodation located a mere 322m from Old Town Edinburgh. This hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities designed for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests of all ages. Featuring a luxurious spa and pool services that include body treatments and detoxification wraps, this eco-certified hotel combines relaxation with family fun, making it perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: A 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.4, ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile is conveniently located 161m from Old Town Edinburgh. This pet-friendly, eco-certified hotel welcomes furry companions, providing amenities such as food and water bowls. With a modern and vibrant atmosphere, it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore the heart of the city.
Where to stay near Old Town Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh is a captivating blend of history and culture, perfect for families and city explorers alike. Wander through the cobbled streets of this historic neighbourhood, where friendly locals and fascinating stories await at every corner. Don't miss iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, both offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. With its charming atmosphere and vibrant community, Old Town Edinburgh promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
- Edinburgh: As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. Old Town Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies at its heart, offering a rich tapestry of historic streets, impressive castles, and iconic landmarks. Visitors flock to the city year-round, with peak seasons in July to August and October, drawn by its cultural events, family-friendly activities, and stunning architecture. Explore the bustling shopping areas, enjoy a theatre performance, or delve into the local history at various museums. The majestic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile are must-visit attractions that encapsulate the city's charm.
- Edinburgh City Centre: Located a mere 644m from Old Town Edinburgh, the City Centre is a lively neighbourhood that serves as the cultural and commercial heart of the city. With visitor numbers consistently high throughout the year, this area is renowned for its shopping experiences, ranging from high street brands to unique boutiques. Theatre lovers will also find a plethora of options nearby, showcasing everything from local productions to international performances. Historic landmarks, such as the Scott Monument and the bustling Princes Street, add to the area's appeal, making it a prime spot for both tourists and locals alike.
- New Town: Situated approximately 966m from Old Town Edinburgh, New Town is characterised by its elegant Georgian architecture and well-planned streets. This neighbourhood attracts visitors seeking family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and shopping delights. With traveller numbers peaking in April, July, and September, New Town offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with cafes, theatres, and shopping centres. Highlights include the beautiful gardens of Princes Street and the iconic Dean Village, both of which are perfect for leisurely strolls. The area's historic significance and contemporary charm make it a delightful addition to any Edinburgh itinerary.
Things to do near Old Town Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh is a vibrant destination perfect for cultural and family vacations, offering a variety of activities such as shopping, education, and theatre. Visitors can enjoy fun evenings, explore top sights, and attend classical concerts, making it ideal for day trips and memorable experiences. With its rich history and lively atmosphere, Old Town Edinburgh promises an unforgettable getaway.
Shopping
In Old Town Edinburgh, you'll discover charming shops like the Scottish Design Exchange, offering unique local crafts, and the iconic Grassmarket, where you can find traditional Scottish souvenirs. Don't miss the Old Town's quaint boutiques for distinctive gifts that capture the essence of Scotland.
Recreation
Experience the serene Yellowscott Country Park, 24.1km from Old Town Edinburgh, where luxury vibes meet nature's beauty. Alternatively, enjoy a round at Macdonald Cardrona Golf Course or Innerleithen Golf Club, both 35.4km away, offering exquisite landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.
Adventure
Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, for panoramic views and fascinating history. Take a thrilling ghost tour through the eerie streets of the Old Town, delving into its haunted past. For a unique experience, hike up Arthur's Seat for stunning vistas of the city.
Nightlife
Old Town Edinburgh boasts a vibrant nightlife, with the lively Bongo Club offering eclectic music and events. For a more traditional experience, the Royal Oak is perfect for live folk music. Don't miss the atmospheric pubs like The Bow Bar, where you can enjoy local ales in a cosy setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Town Edinburgh
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Town Edinburgh are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Old Town Edinburgh about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Old Town Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Town Edinburgh is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Old Town Edinburgh with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Old Town Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh offers a delightful blend of culture, city life, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and the historic streets of the Old Town area, while also venturing into the nearby New Town. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the Old Town caters to all types of travellers, ensuring a memorable experience filled with cultural exploration and urban charm.
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views of the city. This historic fortress is steeped in Scottish heritage, featuring royal apartments and the iconic Crown Jewels. The atmosphere is rich with culture and romance, making it a must-visit.
- Royal Mile: The Royal Mile is a lively thoroughfare that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with charming shops, historic sites, and street performers, it captures the vibrant city vibe, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploration.
- Grassmarket: A bustling historic marketplace, Grassmarket is known for its outdoor cafés and vibrant atmosphere. This family-friendly area offers an array of shops and eateries, and is steeped in history, providing a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
Best time to go to Old Town Edinburgh
The best time to visit Old Town Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Old Town Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Old Town Edinburgh falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Old Town Edinburgh
When visiting Old Town EDInburgh, the primary airport is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), situated 11.3km away. Recommended hotels nearby iNCLude Crescent House, a 5.5-star guesthouse, and the luxurious Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and Kimpton Charlotte Square, both rated 5 stars. Alternatively, you can fly into GLAsgow Airport (GLA), which is 78.9km away, with excellent accommodation options like the 5-star Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa and JA Mar Hall Scotland. For those considering Newcastle Airport (NCL), located 138.4km away, Hemples Lodge is a charming 4.5-star bed and breakfast just 3.2km from the airport, along with the Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel and Kabannas Newcastle, both 9.7km away.