Where to Stay in Edinburgh

The Old Town is built along a steep volcanic spine crowned by Edinburgh Castle. Staying here places you within steps of the Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral, Victoria Street, and the lively evening atmosphere of the Grassmarket and Cowgate. However, streets are hilly and evenings can be active and noisy.

The New Town (constructed 1767–1850) is a celebrated UNESCO masterpiece of Georgian neoclassical architecture. Streets are wide, orderly, and predominantly level. It hosts prestigious 5-star hotels (The Balmoral, Gleneagles Townhouse, Kimpton Charlotte Square), designer retail on George Street, and peaceful private garden squares.

Transit convenience is similar: both districts sit on either side of Edinburgh Waverley Station. However, walking with rolling luggage is substantially easier in the New Town due to smooth, wide pavements without steep stone stairs.

Edinburgh Tram: Departs every 7 minutes right outside the terminal between 06:18 and 22:48. Serves West End, Princes Street, St Andrew Square, Leith Walk, and Ocean Terminal. Trams feature low-floor level boarding (ideal for luggage and pushchairs), dedicated baggage racks, and free onboard Wi-Fi. (Adult Single £7.50 / Open Return £9.50).

Airlink 100 Express Bus: Distinctive dark-blue double-decker express running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Runs every 8–10 minutes during the day and every 15–30 minutes through the night. Terminates at South St David Street beside Waverley Station. (Adult Single £5.50 / Open Return £8.00).

Black Cabs & Rideshare: The official airport taxi rank is located on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park directly opposite arrivals. Metered black cab fares to central Edinburgh range between £25 and £35 depending on time and traffic.