Top Hotels Near Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh Castle

• Stunning Architecture: Edinburgh Castle boasts impressive structures and intricate designs, offering a visual feast for history and architecture enthusiasts.
• Rich History: Step back in time as you explore centuries of Scottish history within the castle's ancient walls.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local art galleries, theatre performances, and vibrant festivals that surround the castle.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The castle is an ideal destination for families, providing engaging experiences for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of nearby lodging options, from charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Edinburgh Castle

Discover a variety of accommodation options near Edinburgh Castle, perfect for every traveller. Whether you seek a charming guesthouse or a luxurious hotel, you'll find pet-friendly and LGBTQIA welcoming establishments that cater to your needs. Enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh while staying in a castle hotel or one of the many comfortable Edinburgh hotels nearby, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Experience luxury and tranquillity at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel, a 4-star gem located 1.1km away from Edinburgh Castle. This hotel is ideal for eco-conscious travellers, boasting eco-certification and a strong commitment to sustainability. The spa-themed facilities cater to those seeking relaxation, featuring an indoor pool, sauna, and a full-service spa that offers a range of treatments. For business travellers, the hotel provides comprehensive amenities, including multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre, ensuring a seamless stay whether for work or leisure.
• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Just 322m from Edinburgh Castle, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a stylish 4-star accommodation perfect for business travellers who also appreciate eco-friendly practices. With eco-certification, this hotel offers modern meeting spaces and a business centre tailored for corporate needs. Guests are treated to stunning views of the castle from their rooms, alongside a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the local culture. Whether you’re here for work or to explore Edinburgh’s rich history, this hotel promises a comfortable and responsible stay.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: Located a convenient 805m from Edinburgh Castle, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile is a welcoming 3-star hotel that embraces inclusivity and sustainability. This eco-certified property is LGBTQIA-friendly and offers pet-friendly accommodations, making it a versatile choice for all types of travellers. With a relaxed atmosphere, the hotel provides essential amenities, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay. Enjoy easy access to the vibrant Royal Mile and immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s captivating charm.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Castle

Exploring Edinburgh Castle and its surroundings offers a captivating blend of history and charm. Stay at family-friendly accommodations with traditional ambiance, or opt for castle-side campsites for a unique experience. Just an hour from Edinburgh, you'll find vibrant neighbourhoods filled with friendly locals, perfect for romantic strolls or family outings. Immerse yourself in the rich history and welcoming atmosphere while discovering the best local eateries and attractions nearby.

• Edinburgh: As a vibrant metropolis, Edinburgh boasts a rich tapestry of culture and history, with Edinburgh Castle perched majestically at its heart. This city is a year-round destination, attracting visitors for its cultural, family, and city-themed experiences. From July to September, you’ll find the city bustling with activity, offering a fantastic array of shopping, theatre, and educational venues. The historic streets and landmarks, including the iconic castle, provide a captivating backdrop for your explorations. Whether you're wandering through the Royal Mile or enjoying a performance at a local theatre, Edinburgh promises an unforgettable experience.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is a charming neighbourhood that brims with historical significance and vibrant culture. With Edinburgh Castle looming above, this area is a must-visit for anyone keen on a city-themed, cultural, or family-oriented adventure. Peak visitor times occur from April to July, making it an ideal time to experience the lively atmosphere. Here, you can explore quaint shops, enjoy educational tours, and immerse yourself in theatre productions. The cobbled streets are filled with historic places and events, ensuring that every corner offers something intriguing to discover.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located a short distance from Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh City Centre is the heartbeat of the city, blending the contemporary with the historic. This bustling neighbourhood welcomes tourists year-round, with peak visitation in the summer months. It offers a range of cultural, family, and city-themed experiences, including extensive shopping options and a vibrant theatre scene. As you stroll through the historic streets, you’ll encounter symbolic landmarks that reflect Edinburgh's rich heritage. This area is perfect for those looking to delve into the essence of the city, making it an essential stop on your journey.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle offers a wealth of activities, from exploring its rich history and stunning architecture to enjoying nearby art galleries, theatre performances, and vibrant festivals. For golf enthusiasts, there are several excellent golf courses in the vicinity, perfect for a round while soaking up the scenic views of Scotland's capital.

Shopping

At Edinburgh Castle, enjoy shopping at The Hub and the Tartan Weaving Mill, both only 322m away, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. Also, Princes Mall, located 644m away, features a lively atmosphere perfect for family and entertainment vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore other nearby shopping options.

Recreation

Murrayfield Stadium, 3.2km from Edinburgh Castle, offers a lively atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Queen's Hall, located 1.4km away, hosts captivating musical performances, while the Royal Commonwealth Pool, just 1.6km away, provides a family-friendly aquatic experience perfect for relaxation and fun.

Adventure

For an adrenaline rush, visit the Midlothian Ski Centre, a ski field located 644m from Edinburgh Castle, offering thrilling slopes. Explore Skirmish Edinburgh Paintball, 3.2km away, for an action-packed experience or try Bedlam Paintball, 1.1km away, for an adventurous day out.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Edinburgh Castle. Visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions for thrilling arcade fun, or enjoy a cosy drink at Greyfriar's Bobby, perfect for romance. For a cultural night, catch a show at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, blending entertainment and family vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh offers various ways to save while visiting the iconic castle. The best time to visit is from January to March when accommodation prices drop; booking a month in advance can secure even better rates. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly options and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals and explore exclusive offers for the best rates. Don't forget to enjoy free activities around the city to stretch your budget further.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edinburgh Castle 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: Book your hotel around Edinburgh Castle about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near Edinburgh Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle offers rich cultural experiences with its historic streets and galleries. Visitors can explore the iconic gates and the majestic castle itself while discovering nearby attractions. For those keen on Scottish heritage, a tour of the best castles in the area is highly recommended, making it a perfect family-friendly destination for a memorable holiday in Scotland.

• Princes Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Princes Street, lined with shops and cafés, offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. This bustling thoroughfare is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a spot of shopping.
• University of Edinburgh: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the University of Edinburgh, one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. Wander through its beautiful campuses and discover its impressive architecture.
• Grassmarket: Enjoy the lively, family-friendly vibes at Grassmarket, a historic market area filled with eateries and local shops. It’s a fantastic spot to relax outdoors and soak up the local atmosphere.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Castle

The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is conveniently accessed via Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 9.7km away. Nearby accommodation options include the 5.5-star Crescent House, and two 5-star hotels: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and The Balmoral Hotel, all situated 11.3km from EDI. Alternatively, Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 77.2km from the castle, with excellent hotels like Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, and Cameron House on Loch Lomond nearby. Lastly, Dundee Airport (DND) is 39.7km away, with options such as The Hideaway Experience and Premier Inn Dundee North, providing various transport services to enhance your travel experience.