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Stand in Grassmarket Square, and feel Edinburgh’s raw soul—this historic plaza once hosted trials, markets, and rebellions, now transformed into a warm stage for art and life. At night, lamplight glows, pubs hum with lively tunes, and locals gather over drinks, slowing time itself. Don’t miss the century-old shop tucked away—their traditional Scottish stew tastes like home, one bite at a time!
Everything you need to know about Grassmarket Square
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Witchery by the Castle is a top choice near Grassmarket Square, offering a unique blend of Scottish Gothic architecture and luxury. Its rooms feature antique furnishings and warm lighting, with select views of the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The hotel provides personalized tours and exclusive dining experiences, immersing guests in local heritage.
Another excellent option is The Elephant House Hotel, famously linked to J.K. Rowling’s creation of Harry Potter. Just a short walk from Grassmarket Square, it boasts a literary-themed ambiance with cozy reading nooks and a charming café. Both hotels are within a 10-minute walk of major attractions like Royal Mile and St. Giles’ Cathedral. Public transport access is superb, with the nearest subway station nearby, making exploration effortless.
Near Grassmarket Square, one must-visit experience is Edinburgh Prison, a former jail transformed into an immersive museum using theatrical lighting and sound to depict the grim history of incarceration. It offers a gripping journey through Scotland’s penal past.
Adjacent to the square, Old Market Tavern is a beloved traditional pub serving authentic Scotch whisky and craft beer, often featuring live folk music performances that capture local spirit.
Art lovers should attend the annual Artist Studios Open Days, held in summer, where visitors can tour working studios and participate in hands-on workshops in ceramics, painting, and more.
At night, the square buzzes with street performers, making it a vibrant cultural hub. A five-minute walk leads to Royal Mile, where you’ll find antique shops, independent bookstores, and artisan markets—perfect for exploring Edinburgh’s rich urban tapestry.
Walking from Grassmarket Square to Edinburgh Castle takes just 10 minutes (about 750 meters) along the historic Royal Mile, passing landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and centuries-old stone buildings. This scenic route offers a perfect introduction to Old Town Edinburgh.
For a quicker option, take the Edinburgh Subway to Edinburgh Castle Station, which is just a 3-minute ride away. Exit and walk 2 minutes to the castle entrance. Several bus routes (e.g., 42, 44, X44) stop near Grassmarket, with a convenient drop-off at the "Grassmarket" stop for easy transfer.
It’s recommended to visit early in the day to avoid crowds and catch the daily One O’Clock Gun and piper ceremony. The path between Grassmarket and the castle is considered one of Edinburgh’s most historically significant walking routes—ideal for photography and heritage enthusiasts.
Consider staying at The Balmoral Hotel or Hotel du Vin & Bistro, both within a 5-minute walk of Grassmarket Square. The former offers Victorian-era grandeur and panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle from its rooms, while the latter blends modern design with Scottish heritage, featuring an exceptional whisky tasting experience.
Grassmarket Square is central to Old Town Edinburgh, surrounded by independent cafés, antique shops, and live music venues—especially vibrant in the evenings. For transport, St Andrew Square Subway Station and nearby bus stops provide easy access to the city center. Staying here ensures you’re immersed in Edinburgh’s rich history, culture, and lively street life, all within walking distance.
Yes, consider The Royal Mile Hostel or The Old Town Guest House, both within walking distance of Grassmarket Square. The former is a boutique hostel with themed rooms and shared social spaces, ideal for budget travelers and young explorers. The latter is a family-run, apartment-style guesthouse offering kitchen facilities and laundry—perfect for longer stays.
Both locations are surrounded by authentic local charm: grab fresh croissants from a nearby artisan bakery each morning, then enjoy live jazz performances at intimate neighborhood bars in the evening. Guided tours also depart from this area, revealing hidden gems like the underground vaults beneath Edinburgh Castle and the medieval courtroom ruins. These experiences transform your stay into a cultural immersion, not just a place to sleep.
Yes, Grassmarket Square is exceptionally well-connected. The St Andrew Square Subway Station is just 300 meters away, providing quick access to the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and the city center. Multiple bus routes (e.g., 26, 38, 47) run along the Royal Mile, linking directly to Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the National Museum.
Walking is also ideal—follow the Royal Mile for about 15 minutes to reach Edinburgh Castle, passing historic stone walls and Gothic architecture. For a scenic alternative, hop on the free Edinburgh Trams, alight at West End Station, and transfer to a short shuttle for University of Edinburgh and Old Town Market.
Whether by foot, tram, or bus, the area offers seamless connectivity to key attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Edinburgh.
Don’t miss live jazz nights and medieval-themed walking tours in the area. Every evening, local bands perform at venues like The Queen’s Arms and The Haggis Pub, offering an authentic taste of Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.
Join a guided "Haunted Old Town" tour led by historians, wandering through shadowy alleys to hear chilling tales of 17th-century plague outbreaks and religious trials. Some tours include secret cellar explorations and displays of ancient torture devices—thrilling and unforgettable.
By day, visit the Grassmarket Farmers’ Market to sample handmade cheeses, smoked salmon, seasonal jams, and pair them with a dram of Scottish whisky on the cobbled streets. These sensory-rich experiences immerse you deeply in Edinburgh’s history, culture, and soul—making your stay more than just sightseeing, but true living history.
See what other travelers say about Grassmarket Square
The communication was excellent from start to finish—everything was exactly as shown on the listing, which made me feel confident and relaxed. The apartment is clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough for a family getaway. It’s located in a quiet area but still within easy reach of Edinburgh’s main attractions via public transport. I loved how thoughtfully it was designed with comfort and convenience in mind. If you're looking for a cozy, reliable place to stay with your family, this is absolutely a top choice. Highly recommend it!
We booked a room at The Salisbury Hotel right during Storm Eowyn, and the staff (or owner) went above and beyond by offering us a free early check-in—such a thoughtful touch when the weather was so rough. The room itself is clean, well-maintained, and absolutely worth the price. Honestly, the only small suggestion would be that the heater could be a bit hotter, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Overall, the hospitality, comfort, and location make this stay unforgettable. I’d definitely return to The Salisbury Hotel on my next trip to Edinburgh.
We stayed here for an extended period, and from the moment we checked in, the team at Canon Court made us feel truly welcome—like we were at home. The apartment is generously sized, and being on the second floor offers a pleasant view of the surrounding buildings, adding to the calm and cozy atmosphere. The room itself is spotless, tastefully decorated, and thoughtfully furnished with every convenience we could need. From kitchen essentials to high-speed Wi-Fi, everything was well thought out. Plus, its central location makes exploring Edinburgh effortless—most attractions are just a short walk away, and public transport is right at your doorstep. I’d absolutely recommend this stay for anyone visiting Edinburgh, whether for work or leisure. It’s a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and quality.
Staying at Heeton Concept Aparthotel Edinburgh Queen Street was a fantastic experience. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly well-equipped—having a microwave, fridge, cutlery, and even a capsule coffee machine made self-catering so convenient. I picked up groceries from a nearby convenience store and heated them right in the room, which was such a time-saver. The large fridge was perfect for storing drinks and snacks. The hotel is just a short walk from major attractions—about 1.5 km—making it easy to explore the city on foot. Plus, bus service 100 stops right near the property, offering a direct link from the airport with no transfers needed. Even though cash payment is only £6, the overall value is outstanding. It’s rare to find such a practical, comfortable, and centrally located stay—definitely a top pick for any visit to Edinburgh.
Staying at Southside Guest House completely exceeded my expectations. The place was spotlessly clean, warmly decorated, and felt incredibly modern with all the amenities in perfect condition. The interior design is elegant and spacious—really gives a high-end feel. Right downstairs, there are plenty of supermarkets and restaurants, so grabbing a meal or essentials is super convenient. Plus, getting to downtown Edinburgh by public transport is a breeze. This isn’t just a good value stay—it’s an exceptional one. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
The Sandaig Hostel offers exceptional service and is perfectly located right across from a bus stop, making transportation incredibly convenient. Whether you're exploring Edinburgh's historic center or heading out to nearby attractions, getting around is effortless. The friendly staff make you feel at home, and the overall experience is truly memorable. It’s an ideal choice for solo travelers or groups alike—highly recommended for its value and welcoming atmosphere.
Staying at International Guest House | Edinburgh 37 was a delightful experience from start to finish. The host was incredibly warm and welcoming, offering thoughtful dining suggestions that made our meals in Edinburgh even more memorable. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Royal Mile, with charming shops and a peaceful park path along the way. It’s a perfect balance of convenience and tranquility. The room was clean, cozy, and well-appointed, all at a very reasonable price. For travelers who value a personal touch and authentic local charm, this guest house is an absolute gem. I’d highly recommend it and will definitely be returning.
Absolutely stunning stay! The location was perfect—just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great cafes, shops, and attractions. The apartment itself was spacious, beautifully furnished, and in top-notch condition—truly five-star quality. I was especially impressed with the fully equipped kitchen, including a dishwasher, which made self-catering a breeze. Everything was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the building felt secure and well-maintained. I’d 100% book again without hesitation. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a home-like vibe in Edinburgh, this is the place to stay.
The location is absolutely unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from all the main attractions, restaurants, and shops. We stayed in a two-bedroom apartment for four adults, and it was perfect—spacious, clean, and incredibly comfortable. The kitchenette had everything we needed, so we were able to cook meals on-site, which saved us a lot of money and added to the homey feel. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, from the modern design to the quiet, well-maintained rooms. This place truly delivers on its promise: great value, top-tier convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d recommend it without hesitation to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Staying at Royal Princes Suites was an absolute delight—so close to all the major attractions in Edinburgh that I barely needed to leave the hotel. The self-check-in and self-check-out process was seamless and convenient, saving me time and hassle. The location is unbeatable: just a short walk from the historic Old Town, the Royal Mile, and the castle. Despite being central, the rooms were quiet and well-insulated, making for a peaceful night’s sleep. Clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, this place offers great value for money. I’d highly recommend it to any traveler looking for comfort, convenience, and a stress-free stay in one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities.
The room had a somewhat unpleasant odor upon arrival, which could be improved with better ventilation or air freshness measures. That said, the location is quite convenient for exploring central Edinburgh, and the view of the castle from the apartment is truly impressive—definitely worth the stay for the scenic perspective. While the overall experience was positive, addressing the room’s air quality would significantly enhance guest comfort. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a unique urban stay with a historic backdrop.
Our stay at City Retreat Edinburgh ApartHotels was truly disappointing. The only redeeming feature was the shower, but everything else fell short. The room had a strong musty smell, and it felt visibly unclean—dust on surfaces, grime on the floor, and even the bedding seemed worn. It's located in a basement unit with steep, narrow stairs that felt eerie at night, especially since the outdoor light wasn’t working. Despite notices about noise and respecting guests above, we were repeatedly woken up by loud noises from the floor above. The wallpaper was peeling off in several spots—something I’ve photographed for proof. Overall, this place failed to meet basic standards of cleanliness and comfort. The housekeeping team needs urgent improvement, and the building clearly needs renovation. This experience ruined our trip to Edinburgh. If you're looking for a decent stay, avoid this property.
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