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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's Old Town, this boutique hotel blends historic charm with modern luxury. Just a 15-minute walk from Waverley Station and Princes Street, its location is unbeatable! With 160 newly renovated suites, a heated indoor pool, spa facilities, and sauna, it's the perfect retreat after exploring the city. Whether you fancy a drink at the bar, a round of golf, or a workout at the fitness center, this place has it all. A dream base for history buffs—steps away from the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace!
This hotel is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and the vibrant shopping district, its location couldn’t be better. The hotel features 180 modern rooms, all equipped with free Wi-Fi and satellite TV for a comfortable stay. Relax in the indoor heated pool or stay active at the fitness center. Traveling with kids? No worries—the hotel offers a children’s play area and kid-friendly meals to keep them entertained. For business needs, there are 5 flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 80 people. End your day with modern cuisine and signature drinks at the themed restaurant and bar—a perfect way to unwind!
Steps from the Royal Mile, this hotel puts you minutes from Edinburgh Castle with 4.4-star luxury. Unwind at the full-service spa, indoor pool, or sauna after exploring the city. Business travelers love the meeting rooms and fitness center, while families appreciate kids' meals and laundry services. Enjoy 24-hour room service, a stylish bar, and high-speed WiFi—all in the heart of historic Edinburgh.
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
Staying at the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the city center and near public transit, making it easy to explore Edinburgh on foot or by train. The area is quiet and peaceful, offering a nice escape from the busier parts of town. There's a local grocery store nearby for essentials, and even better, there’s a small Chinese convenience store right next door that accepts Alipay—super helpful for travelers like me who prefer digital payments. The room itself was spotless, with no unpleasant odors and excellent cleanliness throughout. Daily complimentary bottled water (two bottles per day) is a nice touch. One thing to note: the hotel doesn’t provide slippers or toiletries, but since I brought my own, it wasn’t an issue. Overall, this is a well-maintained, thoughtfully designed hotel with great value for money. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Edinburgh.
I've stayed at Novotel properties in Switzerland and France before, and always had a positive experience—so it was natural to choose this one again during my visit to Edinburgh. The location is unbeatable: right in the heart of the city, with major attractions just a short walk away. The room was clean and comfortable, the atmosphere pleasant, and the staff helpful throughout. That said, the price is definitely on the higher side. Edinburgh is a compact city, and moving just a bit further from the centre can cut accommodation costs by half. I originally planned to extend my stay for another night, but when I checked online in the afternoon, the platform showed availability. However, upon arrival, they claimed there were no rooms left. I returned early the next morning, only to be told the same thing. In the end, I switched to another hotel just 800 meters away—same quality level, but prices were half as much. Even after factoring in a few Uber rides, the total cost was still significantly lower than staying here. While Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers excellent service and convenience, if you're budget-conscious or value flexibility, there are smarter options nearby that deliver better value without sacrificing comfort.
Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions, shopping streets, and restaurants. The room was spacious, modern, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The only downside was the Wi-Fi connection, which was extremely weak and often unreliable. I ended up using my mobile data for most of the time. Despite that small issue, the hotel offers excellent value for money, great service, and an ideal spot for exploring the city. Highly recommended for travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort.
Staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of the city, just steps away from major attractions and public transport hubs. I found it incredibly convenient to explore Edinburgh on foot or by train. The staff were warm, professional, and always ready to help. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, well-prepared, and varied, with both classic English options and international choices. Everything was delicious and served with a smile. From the comfortable rooms to the thoughtful touches, this stay exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
This Hapimag Resort in Edinburgh was an absolute delight—far beyond what I expected from a city known for pricey accommodations. Located just west of Princes Street, it’s incredibly walkable to shops and attractions, and there’s a fantastic Vietnamese pho spot right nearby that I ended up visiting twice. The room was a spacious suite with a generous seating area, a dedicated wardrobe, and an impressive bathroom—large, immaculate, and beautifully designed, complete with a relaxing whirlpool tub. Despite being on the second basement level, the room had a lovely view of a small hillside and even caught stunning sunset views through the window. It felt bright and airy, not at all damp or gloomy like some other hotels I’ve stayed in. The bed was plush and comfortable, the vanity was practical, and every detail felt thoughtfully curated. The hotel’s interior is wonderfully vintage with artwork from various countries and elegant porcelain displays—truly unique and full of character. Staff were courteous and flexible, always ready to assist. Breakfast isn’t included, but you can pre-order pastries delivered to your room—a nice convenience. Entry requires a key card, which adds a great sense of security. Only note: front desk isn’t staffed 24/7, so try to check in earlier if possible—though they’ll leave a contact number if you’re arriving late. With only 30 suites, this place fills up fast—book ahead! Overall, it’s a hidden gem with exceptional style, comfort, and value. A truly memorable stay.
The stay at No11 Boutique Hotel & Brasserie was absolutely fantastic. From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The room was beautifully designed—elegant, clean, and full of thoughtful touches that made it feel like home. We especially loved the cozy ambiance and the attention to detail in the decor. Located just a short walk from the city center, it’s perfect for exploring Edinburgh on foot. The breakfast at the brasserie was a highlight—fresh, delicious, and served with a smile. This place truly delivers on comfort, style, and hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh!
The Apex Grassmarket Hotel is an absolute gem in Edinburgh! We stayed in a twin room with two 1.5-meter beds, and even with three of us, there was plenty of space—comfortable and spacious throughout. The location is unbeatable: the castle is literally visible from the front door, and you can see it towering above as soon as you step out. Across the street, there's a great lineup of restaurants, so dining options are plentiful and super convenient. Whether you're after a cozy pub meal or something more upscale, everything’s just steps away. With such a prime spot, excellent room size, and that iconic castle view, this hotel offers incredible value. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat!
Absolutely loved my stay at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel! The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk to all the main attractions. I was able to explore the city on foot every day without needing transport. The room was spotless, comfortable, and quiet—perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. The whole atmosphere felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice touch of modern elegance. For anyone visiting Edinburgh, this is a top choice. Great value, great comfort, and an unbeatable central spot. Would definitely book again.
Staying at Ten Hill Place Hotel in Edinburgh was hands down the most satisfying hotel experience I've had in the city—yes, it's on the pricier side, but every penny feels justified. The bed isn’t huge, but the bathroom is spacious and well-designed, with a standout feature: the towel drying rack. It made all the difference for drying out our clothes during the trip—no more damp backpacks or sweaty layers. Breakfast was excellent—plenty of variety, fresh ingredients, and great quality. When we were rushing to catch our train, the front desk kindly arranged a taxi for us, which saved us from a stressful scramble. The hotel is less than a mile from the train station, super convenient, though navigating the steep slopes and uneven cobbled streets with luggage was tiring—next time, definitely just grab a cab. There are also tons of dining options nearby, so you’re never far from a good meal. Overall, the location, service, and thoughtful touches like the drying rack make this a top-tier stay. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
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 was our first visit to Edinburgh, and we absolutely fell in love with the city—and especially with the Boatel, 'Wee Sisters'! From the moment we arrived, everything impressed us: the prime location just steps from the heart of town, the spotless cleanliness, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the fully equipped kitchen that made cooking a breeze. The TVs were clear, the beds comfy, and the little touches—like fresh flowers and thoughtful amenities—made the stay feel extra special. It was so convenient, relaxing, and truly unique. Huge thanks to Natalie and her team for creating such a memorable experience. We’ll definitely be back!
Absolutely fantastic stay at The Pavilion at Lamb's House! The three-floor layout was perfect for our family, giving us plenty of space to spread out and relax without feeling cramped. The house itself is beautifully designed with a lovely blend of modern comfort and traditional charm. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated—from the cozy living area to the well-equipped kitchen. Location-wise, it’s ideal: quiet yet close to everything we wanted to explore in Edinburgh. We walked to the city center in just 15 minutes and found public transport super convenient. The host was friendly and responsive, making check-in and check-out smooth. This place truly exceeded our expectations—comfortable, stylish, and peaceful all at once. I’d highly recommend it to any family or group looking for a memorable getaway in Edinburgh.
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