Accommodation will always be one of your biggest travel expenses…but what if it wasn’t? What if you could reduce the cost of your accommodation to zero while still enjoying the comforts of home? That’s what house swaps promise. House swaps have been around for decades. It was the entire premise of the movie The Holiday (starring Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet). They became all the rage but then were soon eclipsed by sites like Airbnb. But as travel prices skyrocketed post-COVID, more and more people have turned back to house swaps as a means of saving money while they travel while still getting a local experience (but without the hassle of an Airbnb). House swaps are exactly what they sound like. You sign up, list your home, and then swap with someone else in another city. They stay in your place and you stay in their place. The biggest and most popular platform for swaps is HomeExchange . And, in this post, I’ll go over everything you need to know to get started with a house swa...
Posted: 2/11/2024 | February 11th, 2024
Edinburgh is enchanting. The capital of Scotland, it’s a historic, moody city with centuries-old buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and an imposing castle that looms above the Old Town.
While there is a ton to see and do here (including lots of eerie ghost tours), the city is actually fairly compact. Everything you’re going to want to see is generally within walking distance. For that reason, all of the hotels below are centrally located so you never have to go far to see the sights.
Here’s my list of the best hotels in Edinburgh:
1. Stay Central Hotel
Just three minutes from the popular Royal Mile, this three-star property is located in a historic 17th-century building that’s been completely modernized. The interior is covered with funky, arty décor that includes lots of distinctive artwork and colorful touches. I like that the rooms are bright, clean, and spacious. The beds are super comfy and rooms include a flat-screen TV, desk, tea/coffee maker, and rain shower (the showers have great pressure too). There’s also a hearty complimentary breakfast that has lots of options, including meat, eggs, fresh fruit, and vegetarian fare.
2. Cheval Old Town Chambers
This stylish five-star hotel offers modern luxury apartments, making it the perfect choice for groups or travelers who simply need more space. It’s located in the Old Town right near the Royal Mile so it’s super close to everything. Their Deluxe rooms feature Scandi-chic décor with a minimalist flair, including lots of space and natural light. There’s a complete kitchen in each apartment, in addition to a washer and dryer. Rooms also include a TV, Wi-Fi, a coffee/tea maker, a desk, and super comfortable beds. Breakfast, which can be included in the price, offers a lot of variety, including lots of local specialties.
3. Yotel
This four-star hotel is clean and modern, with spacious rooms and super comfortable beds. Located in New Town, it’s just a quick 15-minute walk to the Royal Mile. There’s a gym and bar on-site and a full English breakfast is served each morning (which can be included in the price). The rooms here are on the smaller end, but I didn’t want for any extra space. The beds are soft and rooms also include flatscreen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Just note that, while the bathrooms are bright and well-maintained, they don’t offer a lot of privacy. They are essentially part of the room and not really divided from the sleeping space.
4. Gleneagles Townhouse
An ornate and lavish five-star property, this luxe hotel boasts beautiful rooms bedecked with antique furniture and historic designs. It’s a stately hotel that makes you feel like you’re an aristocrat at the turn of the 20th century. The restaurant and dining area, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, features massive opulent pillars and super high ceilings. There’s also a bar and gym on-site, and a spa and wellness center with a relaxing sauna. The rooms are equally elegant too, with wonderfully plush beds that are comfortable and roomy. Rooms also include a flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms, while not large, are beautifully designed and well-lit. The hotel is just a short 8-minute walk to the Royal Mile.
5. The Salisbury Hotel
This boutique townhouse hotel in a quiet residential area is just a five-minute drive from the Royal Mile. It’s located in the Newington suburb, making it a great choice for travelers who want a quieter stay away from the main tourist area. It’s a stylish four-star space and the rooms all have original Georgian features (some even have four-poster beds). The décor is a little dated, but the rooms are spacious and airy. The bathrooms are also large and well-maintained. There’s a simple breakfast buffet offered each morning, and the friendly staff really go out of their way to make you feel welcome. There’s even parking available if you have a vehicle.
6. Prestonfield House
This uber-luxurious, five-star hotel is wildly lavish. I really loved the ornate décor. It’s super unique, both regal and colorful with an aristocratic flair. All the rooms have antique furnishings that will make you feel like you’re staying in a Renaissance palace. Rooms also have flatscreen TVs, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee/tea maker. Plush bathrobes are included as well.
The on-site restaurant hosts a posh afternoon tea and there’s a delicious breakfast spread included every morning. The hotel is just south of the famed Arthur’s Seat and has free parking too. Personally, I think it’s the perfect choice for a luxe retreat or romantic getaway.
Brimming with cozy pubs, world-class whisky, and home to a sprawling UNESCO Old Town, Edinburgh is a city perfect for weekend getaways and week-long stays. It’s a city with historic charm and character, and one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. And by choosing one of the hotels above, you’ll ensure that you have a great stay!
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Book Your Trip to Edinburgh: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- SafetyWing (best for everyone)
- Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
- Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Want More Information on Edinburgh?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Edinburgh for even more planning tips!
2 – Stay Central, 3 – Cheval Old Town Chambers, 4 – Yotel, 5 – Gleneagles Townhouse, 6 – The Salisbury Hotel, 7 – Prestonfield House.
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