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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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
住咗曼斯利騎士服務式公寓，真係好驚喜！位置唔錯，搭地鐵去市中心幾方便，附近食肆都多。酒店本身係由一幢舊建築改裝而成，保留咗好多歷史感，但內部設計又現代又舒服，空間感十足。我入住時間比較晚，酒店仲特意留人等我，辦理手續快而順，完全冇等。房間設備齊全到幾乎唔使自備任何東西，連煮水用嘅電爐、咖啡機都有，免費咖啡仲好飲，好開心！整體體驗近乎完美，性價比高，絕對會再嚟。「},{
Staying at Yotel Edinburgh was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. The location is incredibly convenient—easy to find, just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit. The staff were warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips about local attractions and dining spots. The room itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed; it comfortably fit two people with plenty of room to move around. I especially appreciated the separate shower area—great for keeping things dry and clean. There’s a large sofa perfect for relaxing, plus a functional desk that made working or catching up on emails easy. Everything was spotless and well-maintained. It’s rare to find such a modern, efficient hotel with such a high level of comfort and service. Definitely worth every penny and I’d stay here again without hesitation.
The host was absolutely fantastic—prompt replies, thoughtful attention to detail, and genuinely welcoming. The accommodation was spotless, quiet, and well-maintained, with all amenities matching the listing description. While the space is functional and generous in size, a few areas felt a bit awkwardly designed for daily use, but nothing major. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—within a 10–20 minute walk or short transit ride to most major attractions. Navigation was straightforward, though the streets are undeniably tricky: steep slopes, uneven cobblestones, and staircases are part of what makes Edinburgh unique. It’s not easy walking around, but that’s just the charm of this historic city. Overall, the experience was authentic, comfortable, and great value—perfect for travelers who appreciate local character over convenience. I’d definitely stay here again.
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.
Staying at the Leonardo Edinburgh Haymarket was a fantastic experience overall. The room was larger than expected, featuring a comfortable sofa that made it feel more like a home away from home. Cleanliness was excellent—everything looked fresh and well-maintained. The in-room amenities were thoughtful: a capsule coffee machine and a fridge made mornings easy and convenient, especially for that quick caffeine fix. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to the train station and within easy reach of major attractions. There are plenty of restaurants and cozy bars nearby, so dinner and drinks are never an issue. The only downside is the cabinet above the tea station—it has a sharp corner that could easily cause injury if you’re not careful. It’s definitely a safety concern, especially when moving around with luggage or in low light. A simple fix like adding a soft edge cover would go a long way. Otherwise, this hotel offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere.
Staying at Eden Locke in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, with a cozy feel that made it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The bed was incredibly comfortable—so soft and supportive, I slept like a baby. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk to the city center and major attractions. Public transport is super convenient, and there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes nearby. It’s rare to find such comfort and accessibility at this price point. I’d highly recommend Eden Locke to anyone visiting Edinburgh—truly a gem of a stay!
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