The Balmoral

Edinburgh is a city rich in history, filled with world-renowned sights, superb dining options, cosy pubs and, of course, it's the host of the Edinburgh Festival. The hotel scene is equally exciting - from old-world opulence to converted lighthouse ships or hotels fit for the most fanatic of foodies. Our hotel experts have compiled a concise list of the best luxury hotels in Edinburgh to make booking your next stay a hassle-free experience. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next trip?

For Old-World Charm

The Balmoral

  • The Balmoral is the grand dame of Edinburgh's luxury hotel scene. A renovated old railway station hotel, it's a sophisticated affair: a classy whisky bar, upscale Michelin-star restaurant, elegant and contemporary rooms, indoor pool and a pampering spa. A real has-it-all luxury stay.

For Foodies

The Roseate

  • The Roseate features the best of Scottish hospitality and modern luxury. Offering chic, designer rooms set in two ornate Victorian townhouses, there's a good reason why it's one of the best luxury hotels that Edinburgh has to offer: it boasts the largest selection of rare whiskey in the whole city plus there is decadent afternoon tea and memorable fine-dining.

For a Romantic Break


  • Prestonfield is one of Edinburgh's most opulent luxury hotels. An adults-only boutique set in a country house perched amidst acres of lush parkland, it's romantic and oh-so-luxurious! From the whiskey bar and fine-dining restaurant to croquet on the lawn and hot air balloon rides organised by the concierge. Perfect for couples.
  • The Witchery by the Castle has got the WOW factor. Through the doors of this renovated 16th-century church is luxury of the gilded age: ornate ceilings, red velvet, dark woods, and oil paintings. Moody and romantic - pick this property for its historic feel.

For the Design

The Edinburgh Grand

  • Set in an old bank building, The Edinburgh Grand is one of the most stylish luxury hotels in Edinburgh. The swirling spiral stairwell is like something out of Alice in Wonderland; the club-style bar and sumptuous restaurant make it one of the most happening places in the city. For true luxury, book the 3-bedroom penthouse, with its private rooftop terrace.

For a Unique Stay

Fingal

  • Fingal is a retired lighthouse ship. Scotland's first ever floating hotel offers sleek, minimalist rooms adorned with suede, brass and leather, plus fining dining in the restaurant, a glitzy ballroom and trendy bar. Certainly one of Edinburgh's most unique luxury hotels!

For Families

The Scotsman

  • The Scotsman is a 5-star hotel set in the former Scotsman newspaper's HQ. Grand and sophisticated the interiors mix the old and the new. Rooms are minimalist, there's a world-class gym and a large indoor pool. Offering babysitting services and spacious suites, this is one of Edinburgh's most family-orientated luxury hotels.
  • Families love The George. An opulent A-listed building that's been given a stylish modern makeover, old-fashioned yet hipsterish, the interconnecting rooms are perfect for families. The bar, cafe and brasserie are laid back (complete with kids menus) and the building itself has a glamorous old-world feel.

For Great Value

The Glasshouse Hotel

  • The Glasshouse Hotel is one of Edinburgh's best value luxury hotels. A stone church backed by a modern glass structure, the spacious and minimalist rooms are plush and full of light. While there's no restaurant, there's a lovely rooftop terrace and Japanese garden perfect for enjoying a cocktail or breakfast.
  • For a vintage chic city stay book a room at Kimpton Charlotte Square. Traditional Scottish luxury meets contemporary art and curios and decked out with a wide range of amenities: all-day brasserie, cosy bar, two restaurants, a gym, spa and pool. With so much on offer, the price tag is very generous.

Still not sure where to book?

The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh

The Witchery by the Castle

Edinburgh (Old Town)

Superbly located at the gates of the Castle, on the Royal Mile, sits this intimate, Gothic hotel. The rooms are luxurious, romantic & eccentric – think candlelit, wood paneling and plenty of velvet. Enjoy delicious Scottish food in the equally atmospheric restaurant.

  • Foodies - Serving Scottish beef, lamb, game, the Witchery's famous steak tartare, briny-fresh seafood platters and even some haggis.
  • Romantic Break - The glamourous, plush yet cosy interiors with love seats, four poster beds, and plenty of candles are perfect for couples
  • Sights nearby - In the heart of the Old Town on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile
  • Full of character - Theatrical red & gold, velveted rooms
from £365 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Scotsman Hotel

Edinburgh (Old Town)

This landmark Edinburgh building, the former Edwardian offices of The Scotsman newspaper and well-placed between the Old and New Towns, carefully mixes original features with a low-key modern luxury. The private cinema is an indulgent treat.

  • Great walks - Calton Hill, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site or Arthur's Seat for even more impressive views.
  • Sights nearby - Overlooking Edinburgh Castle.
  • Views - Good city views.
  • Romantic
from £195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Prestonfield

Edinburgh (Prestonfield)

Opulent extravagance at the Prestonfield just 5 mins from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Come for attentive service, divine bedrooms and spoiling galore. Fine dining is served in an ultra romantic setting. The concierge have a 'nothing's too much' attitude. Best for a truly indulgent stay.

  • Romantic Break - This hotel oozes glammour, romance and seduction, with its wildly opulent canopied beds, rich fabrics and roaring fires.
  • Local exploring - The best of both worlds- set in 20 acres of spectacular parklands, yet within spitting distance of Edinburgh.
  • Great walks - Don't forget your welly boots, there are 20 acres of parkland to explore.
  • Restrictions on children - Adults only
from £252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Balmoral

Edinburgh (Princes Street)

Quietly confident, stylish, sophisticated and efficient.THE place to stay in Edinburgh. Part of Rocco Forte Collection and boasting a Michelin starred restaurant, comprehensive spa and over 150 bedrooms. The old railway hotel transformed into a grande dame. True indulgence.

  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
  • Great walks - Walk to the summit of Calton Hill and enjoy the panoramic views.
  • Views - Wonderful city views towards Arthurs Seat.
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor Pool
from £208 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Glasshouse, Edinburgh

Edinburgh (Calton Hill)

Modern, stylish hotel. Large open spaces filled with natural light. Lavender roof garden with views of Carlton Hill. Patios, verandas, areas for private meetings.

  • Sit-out Terrace
  • Designer
  • Views
  • 5* Luxury
from £340 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Roseate Edinburgh

Edinburgh (West End)

In a peaceful corner of Edinburgh’s West End, a short walk from Haymarket and 15 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh airport, The Roseate is an independent, 5 star, 35-bedroom boutique hotel spread over two stately Victorian townhouses. Smart interiors and great food present the ideal city base.

  • Sights nearby - Easy access to all of Edinburgh's top attractions including the Royal Mile, Old Town and Prince's Street
  • Restaurant - The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar serves fine dining dishes created from seasonal, local ingredients
  • Great walks - Climb Arthur's seat for a great view over the city and beyond.
  • Designer - Uniquely designed interiors
from £219 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The George, Edinburgh

Edinburgh (New Town)

The personification of opulence, The George combines grand luxury with a modern sleekness to create a superb hotel right in the centre of Edinburgh. Its location is unbeatable with all of the city's main attractions a short walk away. Perfect for an indulgent weekend in Edinburgh.

  • Romantic Break - Luxuriously decked out rooms, superb restaurant and bar, plus excellent central location, make it great for a romantic getaway
  • Families - Interconnecting rooms, welcome gifts, kids menus - just some of the perks for families
  • City Style - Sophisticated, elegant and stylish a chic city centre option
  • Restaurant - The Printing Press Restaurant serves classic dishes using the best Scottish ingredients
from £120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Kimpton Charlotte Square

Edinburgh (New Town)

A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city. Beautifully renovated rooms keep the traditional style yet a splash of contemporary flare has been added. The two restaurants are equally stylish and the bar produces some top-notch cocktails. The service is slick and the positioning perfect.

  • City Style - A centrally located hotel that has perfectly brought a traditional building into the 21st-century.
  • Sights nearby - The majestic Edinburgh Castle and its breathtaking views are a must-see. Ideally located for all the city highlights
  • Restaurant - Baba for chargrilled meats and delicious mezze or The Garden for light lunches and late nights!
  • Spa - Offering a wide range of massages, body treatments and facials.
from £130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand

Edinburgh (New Town)

This grand neo-classical building, a landmark of St Andrew Square in Edinburgh's New Town, offers stylish and spacious apartments whether for one night or a longer stay. With a club-style bar and restaurant, gym and 24-hour reception, it has all the trappings of a luxury hotel.

  • City Style - One of the more sophisticated luxury hotels in central Edinburgh, ideal for exploring the hotspots, shops and sights in style
  • Sights nearby - The Scott Monument is a 5 min walk, while Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’s Cathedral and the Palace of Holyrood are an easy walk
  • Great walks - Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat offer great views of the city and Firth of Forth
  • Romantic
from £153 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Fingal

Edinburgh (Leith)

A retired lighthouse tender, now turned luxury hotel, anchored in the hip area of Leith. Cabins range from classic doubles to decadent suites. The design is luxurious with brass fittings, leather, and rich hues. A glamorous ballroom is ideal for a party and there's a fabulous little restaurant too.

  • City Style - Set in the hip Leith area, with numerous high-end eateries and bars within walking distance, this is a luxurious and unique stay
  • Groups - The magnificent ballroom is a unique and luxurious space for an event; hosting up to 60 people
  • Great walks - Take a scenic stroll along the Water of Leiths river
  • Sights nearby - Compare boat notes at the Royal Yacht Britannia
from £300 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Edmund Wise

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