Where to stay in Edinburgh? A guide to choosing the right neighbourhood
Choosing where to stay in Edinburgh isn’t just about finding a hotel, it’s about deciding what kind of city break you want.
Do you picture yourself stepping straight out onto the old cobblestones of Royal Mile, surrounded by historic landmarks and bustling streets? Or would you rather wake up in a quieter neighbourhood, stroll to independent cafés and galleries, and wander into the city centre when you’re ready?
Despite its smaller capital city size, Edinburgh’s neighbourhoods still have their own, unique personality. The best area for one visitor might not be the right fit for another. This guide explains what each part of the city is really like, who it’s best suited to, and what you can expect from staying there.
Edinburgh’s best areas at a glance
Choose Old Town if…
- It’s your first visit to Edinburgh.
- You want to be surrounded by the city’s most famous historical landmarks.
- You’d like to explore Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat and old closes on foot.
- You don’t mind busy streets and a lively atmosphere.
Choose New Town if…
- You enjoy elegant Georgian/Victorian architecture, shopping and dining.
- You’d like to be close to George Street and Princes Street.
- You’re looking for a central location with a slightly calmer feel than the Old Town.
- You appreciate museums, galleries and green spaces.
Choose West End if…
- You prefer a quieter, more relaxed base.
- Boutique hotels and independent restaurants are more your style.
- You still want to walk into the city centre in around 15 to 20 minutes.
- You’re looking for a balance of luxury, character and convenience.
Choose Stockbridge if…
- You love independent cafés, bookshops and boutique shopping.
- You enjoy exploring neighbourhoods that feel more local than touristy.
- Weekend markets and leisurely walks appeal to you.
- You’ve already visited Edinburgh and want to see a different side of the city.
Choose Leith if…
- Food is a big part of your trip.
- You’re interested in Edinburgh’s waterfront and maritime history.
- You enjoy a creative, contemporary atmosphere.
- You’re happy to travel a little further from the historic centre in return for a different experience
- You have a tighter budget
Still not sure? If it’s your first visit, Old Town is usually the best place to start. If you’ve been to Edinburgh before or would prefer a quieter stay, the West End or Leith are excellent alternatives.
How to choose the best area to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh may be compact in comparison to other main cities, but each neighbourhood still offers a very different experience and atmosphere. While it’s easy to walk between many of the city’s attractions, where you stay can shape the pace and feel of your trip.
Before choosing a hotel, it’s worth thinking about what matters most to you.
Ask yourself:
- Is this your first visit to Edinburgh?
- Do you want to be close to the main attractions or away from the busiest areas?
- What’s my budget?
- Are you looking for nightlife, restaurants, shopping or somewhere to relax?
- Would you rather walk everywhere or use public transport?
Once you’ve answered those questions, it’s much easier to find the neighbourhood that’s right for your visit.
Edinburgh Old Town: Best for first-time visitors
Best for
First-time visitors, history lovers and anyone who wants to be within easy walking distance of Edinburgh’s most famous attractions. During the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this location puts you in the heart of the action, with street performers running the length of the pedestrian area of the Royal Mile.
Atmosphere
If you’ve imagined wandering along cobbled streets, dipping into hidden closes, exploring film locations from the likes of Outlander, Harry Potter, and Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, and stumbling across centuries of history around every corner, this is probably the Edinburgh you’ve been picturing.
The Old Town is the city’s story-telling heart, centred around the Royal Mile, where medieval architecture, traditional pubs and bucket list landmarks create one of the most recognisable cityscapes in Scotland (if not Europe.)
It’s busy, energetic and full of character. During the day, the streets are filled with visitors watching street artists, exploring museums, people watching on the outdoor bar tables, and following guided tours, while the evenings bring a lively mix of restaurants, bars and entertainment, particularly around the Grassmarket.
What you’ll find
Many of Edinburgh’s best-known attractions are within a short walk of each other, making the Old Town an excellent base for sightseeing. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Mary King’s Close, the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, the National Museum of Scotland and the Palace of Holyroodhouse (at the very bottom of the Mile.)
The Bonham team tip: If you’re travelling with children, they’ll love Camera Obscura World of Illusions next to Edinburgh Castle.
You’ll also find a huge choice of restaurants, whisky bars, traditional pubs, souvenir shops and independent businesses tucked away alongside the area’s famous closes. Thanks to its central location, it’s easy to walk into neighbouring areas such as the New Town or across to Princes Street (only 5-10 minutes walk down The Mound.)
Worth knowing
The popularity of the Old Town means it can be busy throughout the year, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and other major events. Many streets are steep, uneven and cobbled, so comfortable footwear is essential, and some accommodation may be noisier than elsewhere in the city. Be prepared to walk uphill!
If you want to be surrounded by Edinburgh’s biggest attractions and don’t mind the crowds, it’s one of the most exciting places to stay. If you’d prefer somewhere quieter, you may enjoy the West End or Stockbridge instead.
Good to know
- Best for: First-time visitors and history lovers
- Main attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Grassmarket, National Museum of Scotland, Victoria Street (real-world inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley)
- Walk to Princes Street: Around 10 minutes
- Atmosphere: Historic, lively and bustling
- Nightlife: Excellent
- Public transport: Good, with Waverley Station within walking distance and many main buses routes passing over North Bridge
New Town: Best for shopping and dining
Best for
Visitors who enjoy elegant architecture, shopping, dining and a central location with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the Old Town.
Atmosphere
Despite its name, Edinburgh’s New Town dates back to the 18th century and is every bit as beautiful as its older neighbourhood.. Built to ease overcrowding in the Old Town, its wide Georgian streets, grand townhouses and green squares create a very different feel. Here, you’ll swap medieval closes for sweeping crescents and both high-street and boutique shopping.
While it’s still busy, the pace is noticeably calmer than the Old Town. It’s a place where visitors can spend the morning browsing smaller, independent galleries, enjoy a leisurely lunch on George Street or take in the view of the castle from the gardens.
What you’ll find
The New Town is home to many of Edinburgh’s best shopping streets, including George Street, Princes Street, Multrees Walk, and the newer St James’ Quarter. In recent years, a lot of the larger high-street names have swapped the main Princess Street for a new location in the larger St. James’ Quarter Mall. You’ll also find the only Harrods-owned location in Scotland. It operates as H beauty, Harrods’ standalone beauty emporium, alongside the only Sephora location in Scotland too!
Meanwhile George Street and Multrees walk offer everything from independent boutiques to luxury brands. The area also has an excellent choice of restaurants, cocktail bars and cafés, making it popular with both visitors and locals. While many of the restaurants are chain-led, spots such as The Spence (in the Gleneagles Townhouse) and Lady Libertine (located in an old bank vault) provide a very Scottish take on bar dining/drinking out.
Cultural attractions are never far away either. The Scottish National Gallery, Princes Street Gardens and St Andrew Square are all within easy walking distance, while the Old Town and Stockbridge can be reached in around 10 to 15 minutes on foot.
Worth knowing
Although the New Town is quieter than the Old Town, it’s still very much part of Edinburgh’s city centre, so expect plenty of activity around the main shopping streets, particularly at weekends and during major events. In particular, Christmas time around George Street is a main hub for visitors, as the city installs its ice rink and part of the Christmas Market here.
Accommodation is often set within beautiful period buildings, but parking can be very limited and city centre prices are generally higher than in areas further out (sometimes up to £8 an hour for on-street parking!)
If you’re looking for a sophisticated city break with excellent restaurants, shopping and easy access to Edinburgh’s main attractions, the New Town is an excellent choice.
Good to know
- Best for: Shopping, dining and elegant city breaks
- Main attractions: George Street, Princes Street, Scottish National Gallery, Princes Street Gardens
- Walk to the Old Town: Around 10 to 15 minutes
- Atmosphere: Stylish, central and relaxed
- Nightlife: Very good, with a focus on George Street
- Public transport: Excellent, with easy access to trams, buses and Waverley Station. A great location for visitors who don’t have a car.
West End: Best for a quieter, luxury stay
Best for
Couples, boutique hotel lovers, special getaways, and visitors looking for a quieter base within walking distance of Edinburgh’s city centre.
Atmosphere
Edinburgh’s West End offers a different side of the city. While it’s just a short walk from Princes Street and the New Town, the pace feels noticeably calmer. Like the George Street area, elegant Victorian and Georgian townhouses line grand streets, independent cafés and coffee stops sit alongside art galleries, and there’s a greater sense of space.
It’s a neighbourhood that suits visitors who enjoy returning to somewhere peaceful after a day of sightseeing, without feeling disconnected from the rest of Edinburgh. Rather than being surrounded by tourist attractions, you’ll find yourself in the middle of one of the city’s most attractive (and affluent) residential areas.
What you’ll find
The West End is home to a growing collection of independent restaurants, wine bars and cafés, alongside cultural attractions such as the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Dean Village, one of Edinburgh’s most photographed locations, is just a short stroll away, while Princes Street, George Street and Edinburgh Castle are all within comfortable walking distance (around 10-15 minutes.)
The area is also known for its collection of boutique hotels, many of which occupy beautifully restored period buildings that reflect the character of the neighbourhood.
Worth knowing
The West End isn’t the place to stay if you want to step straight out onto the Royal Mile or be surrounded by Edinburgh’s busiest attractions.
The peaceful Water of Leith Walkway passes around the back of the West End, and through the picturesque mill area of Dean Village.
The Bonham team tip: Follow our guide for Great stops and things to see on Edinburgh’s Water of Leith walkway and be sure to look out for the eerily human Anthony Gormley statues in the water.
Good to know
- Best for: Couples, boutique hotel stays, special occasion hotels, and quieter city breaks
- Main attractions: Dean Village, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Johnnie Walker Princes Street
- Walk to Princes Street: Around 10 minutes
- Atmosphere: Elegant, peaceful and residential
- Nightlife: Relaxed, with independent bars and restaurants
- Public transport: Excellent, with regular buses and nearby tram stops
Looking for a boutique hotel in Edinburgh’s West End?
If the West End sounds like the right fit for your trip, The Bonham combines the character of a Victorian townhouse with contemporary interiors, award-winning dining and a peaceful location that’s still within easy walking distance of Edinburgh’s main attractions.
Art lovers will love its expansive public collection and the period feel of the Library room.
Stockbridge: Best for local charm
Best for
Repeat visitors, independent shopping, weekend café culture, luxury second-hand shopping, and anyone looking to experience a more local side of Edinburgh.
Atmosphere
Although it’s less than a 20-minute walk from the city centre, Stockbridge feels like a village within the city. Its quaint streets, independent businesses and relaxed pace make it a favourite with locals (especially on a Sunday when the Stockbridge Market pops up), while visitors are drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and character.
Unlike the busier parts of Edinburgh, Stockbridge is somewhere to slow down. Spend the morning browsing bookshops, picking up locally-produced Scottish gifts, enjoying a long lunch in an independent café or taking a walk along the nearby Water of Leith before exploring the rest of the city.
What you’ll find
Stockbridge is known for its collection of small coffee shops, artisan food stores,hidden galleries and boutique retailers, many of which are family-run or locally owned. The popular Sunday market attracts visitors looking for street food, handmade presents and local produce.
The neighbourhood also offers easy access to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the Water of Leith Walkway, while both the New Town and Princes Street are within comfortable walking distance.
In summer, the Neighbourgood Market runs until early August in the sports fields behind The Raeburn on Portgower Place (EH4 1HQ.) This dog-friendly open-air festival offers food and drink stalls and entertainment, and is very popular with the locals – especially on a sunny day.
The Bonham team tip: Stockbridge is a content creator’s dream, and Instagrammers have been visiting for decades to capture their next viral photo or video. Circus Lane is a must-visit, a curved cobblestone street with charming mews houses, hanging baskets, and crawling ivy.
Worth knowing
Stockbridge isn’t as convenient as the other bases listed here, if your priority is ticking off Edinburgh’s major attractions in a day. Instead, it’s better suited to visitors who enjoy exploring neighbourhoods and discovering sights without a long list of ‘hot spots’ to see – places that many tourists overlook.
Accommodation is also more limited than in the city centre.
Good to know
- Best for: Independent shopping, cafés and repeat visitors
- Main attractions: Stockbridge Market, Water of Leith, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Walk to Princes Street: Around 20 minutes
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, creative and picturesque village-like
- Nightlife: Low-key, with cosy pubs, wine bars and neighbourhood restaurants
- Public transport: Good, with regular bus services into the city centre
Leith: Best for food lovers
Best for
Food lovers, waterfront walks and visitors looking to experience an incredibly ‘local’ side of Edinburgh beyond the city centre.
Atmosphere
Once a bustling port, Leith has evolved into one of Edinburgh’s coolest neighbourhoods. Its waterfront setting, creative spirit and thriving food scene give it a distinct character that’s quite different from the city’s historic centre.
You’ll find converted warehouses alongside modern developments, independent cafés next to traditional pubs, and a lively mix of locals and visitors. It’s a neighbourhood that rewards those who like to explore beyond the usual tourist trail.
What you’ll find
Leith has built a reputation as one of Edinburgh’s best up-and-coming dining destinations, with everything from neighbourhood bistros and seafood restaurants to Michelin fine dining and waterfront bars. The area is also home to the Royal Yacht Britannia, one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions, while the Shore offers waterside walks and plenty of places to stop for a drink or a meal.
Thanks to Edinburgh’s tram network, travelling between Leith and the city centre is straightforward, making it an easy option for visitors who don’t mind staying a little further from the Castle and Royal Mile.
Worth knowing
Leith isn’t within comfortable walking distance of Edinburgh’s main historic attractions (it’ll take around 40-minutes to reach the Royal Mile and a lot of this is uphill, though public transport and taxi links from here are excellent if you plan to spend most of your time in the Old Town.)
However, if your priorities are to experience the city like a local, great food, a more contemporary atmosphere with a tighter budget, it’s well worth considering.
The Bonham team tips: Don’t miss foodie hangouts like Brown’s of Leith – a converted industrial space that’s open Thursday to Sunday, 8am–10pm, housing a number of local food providers and the occasional local business pop-up/collaboration.
Good to know
- Best for: Food lovers, waterfront walks and contemporary Edinburgh
- Main attractions: The Shore, Royal Yacht Britannia, Scottish waterfront restaurants and bars
- Walk to Princes Street: Around 45 to 60 minutes (or around 15-20 minutes by tram)
- Atmosphere: Creative, vibrant and waterside
- Nightlife: Excellent, but more understated, swapping locals for a wide choice of restaurants, bars and pubs
- Public transport: Excellent, with regular trams and buses connecting Leith to the city centre
Looking for a boutique hotel in Edinburgh’s West End?
If the West End feels like the right fit for your trip, The Bonham offers a 5-star take, perfect for art-lovers and those who want their accommodation to come with a slice of historic Edinburgh. Set within a Victorian townhouse in one of Edinburgh’s most elegant neighbourhoods, it provides a peaceful base that’s still within easy walking distance of Princes Street, Dean Village and public transport.
The Bonham to Haymarket Station: 13 min walk
The Bonham to the West End tram stop: 9 minute walk
The Bonham to Waverly Train Station: 25 minute walk or 10 minute taxi
Welcoming romantic weekend breaks, intimate wedding parties, special occasion groups, couples, or visitors simply looking for a quieter city break, staying at The Bonham in the West End lets you experience a different side of Edinburgh while keeping the city’s main attractions close at hand. Explore our Rooms and Offers here.