Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Step into Bristo Square, the beating heart of Edinburgh’s creative soul—where students, artists, and street vibes collide. Grab a latte at a sidewalk café, watch life unfold with effortless charm, and get swept up in the local energy. Weekends bring vibrant pop-up stalls selling handmade soaps, indie fashion, and quirky treasures—perfect for browsing without a plan!
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps from Princes Street and George Street, this hotel blends luxury with convenience. Rooms feature Smart TVs, premium linens, and complimentary treat boxes plus a fridge stocked with fresh milk. Dine at The Garden, an indoor courtyard serving everything from salads to Scottish cocktails, or savor Middle Eastern flavors at BABA’s mezze grill. Unwind with free access to the gym, pool, and spa (some treatments at extra cost). Perfect for business or leisure, it’s a 5-minute walk to Waverley Station and 7 miles from the airport—effortless connectivity!
This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a 10-minute walk from Princes Street and George Street. Enjoy the garden views and take advantage of free WiFi and concierge services. Whether for business or leisure, its meeting rooms and wedding services cater to all needs. The on-site restaurant serves local cuisine with garden views, and the bar is ideal for evening drinks. Rooms are equipped with minibars and smart TVs, plus luxury toiletries for a comfortable stay.
Everything you need to know about Bristo Square
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice located just a 5-minute walk from Bristo Square, offering unbeatable location and elegant Scottish-inspired décor. Its spacious rooms feature luxurious bedding and modern amenities, with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle from select windows. The hotel’s proximity to cultural hubs like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue and Royal Mile makes it ideal for exploring the city’s vibrant heart.
Another excellent option is The Elephant House Hotel, a boutique property famed for its literary heritage—once a creative inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. With its historic charm and warm hospitality, this hotel blends character and comfort seamlessly. Both properties provide easy access to Bristo Square and excellent public transport links, making them perfect bases for visitors seeking authenticity and convenience in Edinburgh.
Near Bristo Square, culture lovers will enjoy visiting The Elephant House Café, famously known as the birthplace of Harry Potter. This cozy, vintage-style café offers artisanal coffee, handmade pastries, and an atmospheric setting perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.
The square regularly hosts outdoor markets and independent art exhibitions, showcasing local designers’ creations—from handcrafted jewelry to limited-edition prints. Live music performances often take place on weekends, adding to the lively university-town vibe. For deeper engagement, join workshops hosted by local studios in pottery, calligraphy, or illustration, all within walking distance. These experiences highlight Edinburgh’s rich creative spirit and offer authentic, immersive moments right at the city’s artistic heart.
The fastest route from Bristo Square to Edinburgh Castle is by foot—just a 15-minute stroll along the Royal Mile, passing iconic landmarks like St. Giles Cathedral and charming medieval alleyways. This scenic walk offers a genuine taste of the city’s historic atmosphere.
For a quicker option, catch Bus 200 from a nearby stop, which runs directly to the base of Castle Rock in about 8 minutes. Alternatively, e-bike rentals are available near the square, allowing flexible, eco-friendly travel with minimal effort. All options deliver you swiftly to the castle’s gates, where panoramic views of Edinburgh await—perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre is an excellent choice for families, located just a 3-minute walk from Bristo Square. It offers spacious family rooms equipped with child safety features and includes a complimentary breakfast, ensuring a stress-free start to the day.
Another great option is Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Brunswick Street), which provides family-friendly amenities such as baby cots, extra beds, and quiet, well-lit rooms. The hotel is surrounded by green spaces, playgrounds, and child-friendly restaurants like The Little Chef, making it easy for kids to stay entertained. All properties offer 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and convenience for parents and children alike. Its central location makes it ideal for families exploring Edinburgh’s attractions together.
Near Bristo Square, the The Balmoral Hotel stands out with its classic Scottish architecture and luxurious amenities, offering a 5-minute walk to the square. Guests enjoy personalized concierge services and an exquisite afternoon tea experience. For a more budget-friendly option, Jurys Inn Edinburgh provides modern rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and easy access to major attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
The easiest way is taking Airport Bus 100 or Lothian Buses to Waverley Station, then walking 15 minutes to Bristo Square. Alternatively, pre-book a taxi or use Uber, which takes about 20 minutes and costs £30–£40. Many hotels offer complimentary airport transfers, so check availability in advance for added convenience.
Near Bristo Square, explore local art at independent galleries and cozy cafés hosting weekend markets and live music. During the Edinburgh Art Festival, don’t miss outdoor exhibitions. Visit the historic Tron Kirk church to appreciate Scotland’s religious heritage. For authentic local flavor, stop by Café Marmalade, renowned for handmade Scottish pastries and specialty coffee.
While Bristo Square is known for its artistic vibe, families can easily reach Edinburgh Zoo, the UK’s oldest zoo, just a 10-minute walk away. Home to penguins, koalas, and native Scottish wildlife, it features interactive zones and guided tours perfect for children. Nearby, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers expansive green spaces, educational programs, and picnic areas ideal for family relaxation.
Yes, most hotels near Bristo Square, including The Balmoral Hotel and Jurys Inn Edinburgh, provide free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout guest rooms and public areas. Premium properties even feature dual-band routers and dedicated workspaces for business travelers. Additionally, nearby cafés like Café Marmalade offer complimentary internet access, ideal for staying connected on the go.
From Bristo Square, you can easily reach the National Museum of Scotland, just a 10-minute walk away, featuring exhibits on science, technology, natural history, and Scottish culture, including interactive zones and a children’s discovery center. Another must-visit is Edinburgh Castle, accessible via tram or a 15-minute walk, offering rich history and panoramic city views. Both are free to enter and essential stops for cultural immersion.
Bristo Square itself is a prime spot for photographers, with its red-brick architecture and lush courtyard gardens providing striking backdrops. Just a 5-minute walk leads to Old Town Courtyard, featuring narrow alleys and stone walls that evoke medieval charm. For panoramic shots, head to Calton Hill, where summit views encompass Edinburgh Castle and the entire city skyline—especially stunning during sunset, making it a top destination for visual storytelling.
See what other travelers say about Bristo Square
Honestly, just one word: amazing! From the moment I walked in, everything about this hotel exceeded my expectations. The breakfast was outstanding—plenty of variety and delicious quality, with staff who were friendly and attentive without being overbearing. I stayed in room 44, a unique loft-style layout that felt quirky and cool—definitely not your average hotel room. Despite being split-level, it was incredibly quiet, making for a peaceful night’s sleep. I loved the bathroom amenities—they used my favorite brand, Baudruche, and the scent alone made me feel pampered. Granted, the room size isn’t huge compared to some mainland hotels, but considering I was staying in a beautifully preserved historic building right in the heart of Edinburgh, it felt like a real privilege. The location is fantastic—walkable to major sights and super convenient for public transit. Everything about this stay screamed quality and charm. If I ever come back to Edinburgh, this will be my first choice again. A truly unforgettable experience.
From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality at Kimpton Charlotte Square made our stay in Edinburgh truly special. A huge shoutout to Brian from the concierge team—he was absolutely outstanding! Not only does he speak seven languages fluently, but his knowledge of local spots and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. Whether it was recommending hidden gems or helping with last-minute travel plans, he went above and beyond with a smile. His professionalism and personal touch turned what could’ve been just another hotel stay into an unforgettable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, combined with the charming atmosphere of the hotel, made this place feel like home. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for warmth, style, and exceptional service—truly a standout in Edinburgh.
Staying at The Bonham was an excellent experience overall. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the city center and well-connected by public transit. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, and the breakfast spread was impressive with fresh options including made-to-order eggs—perfect for starting the day. One downside was the 12.5% fee applied to all purchases made through the platform, which felt a bit unexpected and not clearly communicated upfront. Still, despite that, the quality of the hotel, service, and value for money made it worth it. I’d definitely recommend and stay here again.
This was our second stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh, and once again, we were thoroughly impressed. We traveled with three families this time, and even invited two other households to join us—everyone had a fantastic experience. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with everything you’d need for a comfortable stay. Even though we were on the ground floor, there was no sense of being closed in or dull—just clean, bright, and welcoming. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just an 8-minute walk to Calton Hill and about 15 minutes to the train station. In terms of value for money, it’s hard to beat—best location in its price range, and arguably the most affordable option in that area. We’ve considered trying other hotels this year, but after checking out alternatives, we kept coming back to this one. Edinburgh is simply magical, and staying here made every moment of our trip more memorable.
This hotel is truly exceptional—perfectly situated in the charming Stockbridge neighborhood of Edinburgh. It’s close enough to walk to all the top attractions, yet peaceful and quiet away from the tourist crowds. The staff go above and beyond with their warm hospitality and attention to detail, making you feel right at home. Every interaction was thoughtful and genuine. I’ve stayed in many hotels across the UK, and this one stands out for its combination of location, comfort, and service. I’d absolutely stay here again if I ever return to Edinburgh—highly recommend for anyone looking for a memorable, stress-free experience.
Staying at the Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh was an absolute delight. Located right within the University of Edinburgh campus, the hotel offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Just a short 10-minute walk from the historic Old Town, I had easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. The convenience of having a nearby supermarket and a Starbucks made daily errands effortless. Best of all, the rooms come with a microwave and refrigerator—ideal for preparing simple meals, which is a huge plus when traveling or staying longer. The spacious, well-designed rooms combined with the excellent location make this hotel a standout choice. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm.
Staying at Fraser Suites Edinburgh was an absolute delight! The room exceeded all my expectations—spacious, clean, and beautifully designed with modern amenities. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. What stood out most was the convenient location; it’s just a short metro ride to the city center, and everything I needed—from cafes to shops—was within walking distance. The staff were warm and attentive, even offering a little welcome gift upon check-in, which added a nice personal touch. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced mix of comfort, convenience, and value. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
I was completely spontaneous with my trip to Edinburgh and ended up booking this hotel on a whim—what a great surprise! Located just a 500-meter walk from the train station, it’s incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by rail. What truly impressed me, though, was how peaceful and quiet the rooms were at night—despite being right in the heart of the city, I had a deep, restful sleep without any noise disturbance. The overall atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a well-designed interior that feels both modern and cozy. It’s hands-down one of the best value stays I’ve had in Edinburgh. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and tranquility all in one place, this hotel is a must-try. I’ll definitely be returning.
Staying at Le Monde Hotel was such a delightful experience from start to finish. Each room is named after a different city, giving it a unique and personal touch—warm, cozy, and full of character. The location couldn’t be better: just steps away from St. Andrew Square, with easy access to buses and trams heading straight to the airport. Right across the square is Edinburgh’s main bus station, where tours to the Highlands depart daily—perfect for spontaneous adventures. A short stroll takes you to Rose Street, a vibrant hub packed with diverse restaurants and cafes. I even stumbled upon Happy Lamb Hotpot right near the Scott Monument—had a steaming bowl of lamb hotpot on a rainy day, and it was absolutely unforgettable. Comfortable rooms, unbeatable location, and great food nearby make this hotel a real gem. Highly recommend!
Staying at Princes Street Suites was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Edinburgh’s main attractions, including the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat, with easy access to public transit. What truly amazed me was the building’s unique design: stepping into the basement via the elevator revealed a striking view of towering structures outside the window, almost like being in a modern urban landscape. Inside, the room was immaculate, well-equipped, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and a spacious bathroom. Everything matched my expectations—and then some. The overall experience was exceptional, and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a convenient, stylish, and thoughtfully designed stay in Edinburgh, this is the place to be.
Our late August stay at Ard-Na-Said was absolutely delightful. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and at home—everything we needed was thoughtfully provided. Check-in was smooth and hassle-free, and the quiet, safe neighborhood added to the peaceful vibe. We especially loved the afternoon tea at Prestonfield, just a short, pleasant stroll away—perfect for relaxing after exploring. The area is packed with great dining options; we had a fantastic time at Wee Greek and Papaya Thai, both offering delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. The lounge setup with coffee, tea, and snacks is a real plus—ideal for unwinding. Getting into town by bus is super easy, and it’s only a quick walk to the base of Arthur’s Seat (though the hike up is definitely no joke!). We’d happily return to this charming guesthouse without hesitation. A wonderful balance of comfort, convenience, and character—highly recommended!
Stayed two nights at Destiny Scotland - St Andrew Square Apartments, and had a fantastic experience overall. The first night was in room 1B—clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. On the second night, I upgraded to the 3rd-floor premium room (unit 8), which had a great location right next to the elevator for easy access. The kitchenette is fully equipped with a dishwasher and fridge—perfect for self-catering. The window faces the street, giving nice views during the day, though it’s worth noting that noise from the road might be noticeable if you’re sensitive to sound. One small suggestion: repositioning the living area and bedroom could improve the flow and privacy. The bathroom in this unit is slightly smaller than the one in 1B, which I personally preferred. Despite that, the location is unbeatable—everything is within walking distance, from historic landmarks to shopping spots. Public transport is just steps away too. For convenience, cleanliness, and value, this place truly earns a full five-star rating.
Explore more amazing destinations