
Edinburgh/Martello Tower Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxury hotel is just steps away from Princes Street, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. Whether you're on a business trip or a family vacation, it has everything you need. Unwind at the lavish spa, relax in the indoor pool, or enjoy a variety of dining options from fine dining to 24-hour room service. The Turkish bath and sauna are perfect for ultimate relaxation. Fitness lovers can explore the nearby golf course or rent a bike to tour the city in style.

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, this luxe hotel blends contemporary design with Scottish heritage. Stay in uniquely styled rooms and suites that exceed expectations! The rooftop terrace offers 360-degree views of the city, perfect for enjoying innovative dishes at SUSHISAMBA or sipping craft cocktails at the cozy Joao’s Place bar. Whether you're here for business or leisure, take advantage of the fitness center, spa, and meeting facilities. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s your ideal base to explore Edinburgh’s vibrant culture. Book now for an unforgettable stay!

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!

















Everything you need to know about Martello Tower
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, located just 1.5 km from Martello Tower in central Edinburgh. Renowned for its historic elegance and exceptional service, it offers luxury accommodations and personal concierge assistance. Easy access via foot or short bus ride makes exploring the tower and nearby attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile convenient. Guests can also enjoy traditional Scottish afternoon tea and access to an on-site golf course, blending modern comfort with authentic Scottish charm.
The most convenient options are taking a local bus or renting an electric bike, both covering the 2.5-km route in about 15 minutes. For walking enthusiasts, a scenic 2.5-km hike along Falkland Road offers gentle slopes and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline and greenery. Though slightly uphill, the journey is rewarding with lush surroundings. Comfortable footwear and hydration are recommended. Nearby bike-sharing stations near the tower enhance mobility, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
Martello Tower, now part of the Edinburgh History Museum, offers guided tours revealing its role during the Napoleonic Wars and architectural design. Weekends feature reenactments of 19th-century military drills and living history exhibitions with period costumes and live demonstrations, providing an immersive experience. The observation deck offers panoramic views of western Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, combining natural beauty with historical significance—ideal for photographers. Some events require advance HopeGoo; check the official website for schedules.
The Old Bakehouse is a standout near Martello Tower, specializing in traditional Scottish cuisine using local ingredients like wild salmon, Highland beef, and craft beer. Their signature dish, **
Near Martello Tower in Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice, located just 500 meters away—within a 10-minute walk. This five-star hotel offers Victorian-era architecture, luxurious accommodations, and panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Highlands from its windows.
It also features an iconic Royal Afternoon Tea experience and guided tours that delve into the military history of Martello Tower. Another excellent option is The Witchery by the Castle, a boutique hotel nestled close to the tower with distinctive medieval stone walls and arched doorways, offering an immersive historical ambiance.
Both properties provide exceptional accessibility via bus or underground rail, making them ideal bases for exploring the historic site and surrounding Old Town areas.
For families visiting Martello Tower, Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre is an excellent choice, just 800 meters away—about a 12-minute walk. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a dedicated kids’ play area with safe, child-friendly facilities.
A unique feature is its interactive history scavenger hunt booklet, designed to engage children in learning about Martello Tower’s defensive systems and 19th-century military significance through fun challenges.
Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden and Princes Street Gardens, perfect for relaxed strolls with kids. The hotel also provides electric vehicle charging stations, ideal for eco-conscious families traveling with sustainable transport.
Walking from Martello Tower to Edinburgh Castle takes about 25 minutes (1.3 km) along Castle Hill Path, offering a scenic route rich in history and views.
First, pass by St Giles Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church in the heart of the Old Town, renowned for its stained-glass windows and bell tower—perfect for a quick visit.
Continue down Royal Mile, the bustling historic street lined with traditional Scottish shops, pubs, and souvenir stalls, ideal for soaking up local culture.
As you ascend toward the castle, enjoy sweeping vistas of the Firth of Forth and the city skyline. The final view of Edinburgh Castle’s red-brick fortress and towering battlements is breathtaking.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water—the path combines urban charm with natural beauty, making it a favorite among tourists and photographers alike.
Martello Tower is centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, offering excellent access to public transit. The most convenient options include the Edinburgh Tram, which stops at West End Station, just a 600-meter walk away.
Alternatively, multiple city bus routes such as 45, 50, and X7 serve the area, with contactless payment and Oyster card compatibility for seamless travel.
For those who prefer walking, Martello Tower is within a 15-minute stroll of major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and St Giles Cathedral—ideal for leisurely exploration.
International visitors may opt for the Edinburgh HopeGoo Bus Tour, which provides flexible sightseeing with onboard audio guides, offering detailed insights into Martello Tower’s military past and the city’s evolution.
See what other travelers say about Martello Tower

Staying at The Caledonian Edinburgh was an absolute highlight of our trip. Located right at the intersection of Princes Street and Lothian Street, it sits perfectly between Old Town and New Town—just a short walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, with views of the fortress from the front door. The hotel itself is a historic building with rich heritage, once visited by legends like Arthur Conan Doyle, which made it extra special for us as devoted Sherlock Holmes fans. The breakfast was a classic English spread, but what stood out most was the waffle served with honey straight from a whole, fresh honeycomb—such a unique and memorable touch. There’s also a beautiful garden restaurant in the atrium, though we were pressed for time and didn’t get to experience it. Still, the atmosphere alone adds so much charm. From the location to the details, every element felt thoughtfully curated. A truly exceptional stay that exceeded expectations.

Our honeymoon stay at W Edinburgh was absolutely perfect—just two nights, but every moment felt special. The room was modern, spacious, and packed with all the amenities we could want. What made it extra memorable? The room number matched our wedding anniversary—such a thoughtful touch! Located right next to a shopping mall, everything we needed was within walking distance. Plus, being so close to all the main attractions made exploring the city effortless. We loved how convenient the location was—just a short walk or quick subway ride to anywhere we wanted to go. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made us feel truly welcomed. Even though we only stayed overnight, we already know we’d book again in a heartbeat. If you're planning a romantic getaway to Edinburgh, this hotel is an absolute must-try.

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.

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!

Traveling with my 80+ mother was such a pleasant experience thanks to the exceptional service at Hilton Edinburgh Carlton. The hotel went above and beyond by assigning us an age-friendly room—thoughtful features like grab bars, easy-to-reach controls, and ample lighting made everything comfortable for her. But what truly stood out was the front desk staff: a kind and attentive lady who personally arranged our airport transfer. She ensured the driver arrived early the next morning, making our departure stress-free. The location is also excellent—just a short metro ride into the city center. From start to finish, the attention to detail and genuine care made this stay unforgettable. If you're traveling with elderly family members, this hotel is an absolute must-consider. Highly recommended!

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.

Staying at Malmaison Edinburgh was a delightful experience from start to finish. The minimalist design gives the hotel a modern, stylish vibe that feels both fresh and welcoming. Every corner is spotlessly clean—beds, bathrooms, hallways—it’s clear they take hygiene seriously. The surroundings are peaceful and beautifully maintained, making it easy to unwind after a busy day exploring the city. Staff are friendly, efficient, and always ready to help. One minor downside? The on-site restaurant closes earlier than expected, so dinner plans had to be adjusted—but honestly, that’s just a small bump in an otherwise perfect stay. With its prime location, excellent service, and great atmosphere, this place earns every single point. I’d happily come back without hesitation.

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 Murrayfield Hotel was an absolute delight! The location is fantastic—just a three-stop subway ride from Princes Street, and there's a bus stop right outside the hotel for easy access. If you're driving, free parking is a huge plus. I especially enjoyed taking the tram from Princes Street to the stadium stop, then walking just a few minutes to the hotel—perfect way to explore the city. Plus, the Chinese consulate is right across the street, which added a nice touch of pride. Everything about this stay felt convenient, comfortable, and well-located. Highly recommend it for anyone visiting Edinburgh!

The penthouse suite was incredibly spacious and beautifully modern, offering a truly luxurious stay. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with excellent attention to detail. Being located in the heart of Edinburgh made exploring the city effortless—walking distance to major attractions and great dining spots. The only minor suggestion would be upgrading the pillows on the beds for even greater comfort. Overall, this was an outstanding experience. The location, cleanliness, and contemporary design make it a top choice for any traveler visiting Edinburgh. I’d definitely return and recommend it without hesitation.

A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Carmichael and Mrs. Caroline for their warm and welcoming hospitality! Staying at this charming guesthouse was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center, with easy access to public transit and all the must-see attractions. Their genuine smiles made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and full of local touches that truly energized our day. It’s rare to find such thoughtfulness and personal care in a stay. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning my return. If you’re looking for a cozy, authentic experience in Edinburgh, this is it!

Just returned from a wonderful two-night stay at this apartment, and my kids are already asking when we can come back—yes, they’re that excited! The space was perfect for our family of six (three adults and three kids). We had a double bed in one room, two single beds in the other, plus two fold-out futons in the living area—yet there was still plenty of room to move around and relax together. It’s incredibly clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully laid out. Located just steps from Haymarket, we easily caught the tram to explore other parts of the city. There are so many great restaurants and pubs nearby—perfect for dinner or a drink after a long day. The location is unbeatable, the amenities are spot-on, and the overall experience was fantastic. I’d highly recommend this place to any family looking for comfort, convenience, and a home-away-from-home vibe.
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