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Stand beneath Mercat Cross, and feel the pulse of Edinburgh’s past. This 15th-century stone pillar once ruled the market square, where laws were read and justice delivered. Now, silent and solemn, it stands at the heart of Old Town, surrounded by ancient alleys and timeless architecture. Walk around it slowly—every footstep echoes with centuries of stories. It’s not just a landmark; it’s a conversation with history.
Everything you need to know about Mercat Cross
Stay at The Balmoral Hotel, a grand Victorian-era landmark just a 5-minute walk from Mercat Cross. This iconic hotel offers luxurious rooms with views of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, blending classic elegance with modern comfort. Its prime location puts you within easy reach of St. Giles Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, and the city’s historic heart, making it ideal for travelers seeking both heritage and convenience in central Edinburgh.
From Mercat Cross, you can walk to Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and Princes Street in under 10 minutes. Local buses (e.g., routes 40, 42) stop nearby, connecting you quickly to Holyrood Palace and the National Museum of Scotland. The Edinburgh Trams also serve the Waverley Station stop, reaching Edinburgh Airport in just 15 minutes—offering seamless access for travelers exploring the city and beyond.
Explore the Edinburgh Old Town Market Tour, a guided walk uncovering medieval trade customs and civic history tied to Mercat Cross. Every Saturday morning, the Royal Mile Antique Market features over 100 stalls selling vintage books, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional Scottish crafts. For a thrilling twist, join a Nighttime Ghost Walk led by local historians, visiting sites once used for trials and executions—immersing you in Edinburgh’s eerie past.
Choose Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre, located just a 7-minute walk from Mercat Cross on Princes Street. This family-oriented hotel offers child-friendly rooms, free breakfast, and an indoor play area. It also provides a complimentary kids’ activity guide highlighting family-friendly spots like Edinburgh Zoo and the Scottish National Museum—all reachable within 30 minutes by foot or bus, perfect for stress-free family travel.
Visit The Elephant House, famed not only for its Scottish afternoon tea but also as the rumored writing spot of J.K. Rowling. Nearby, The Witchery by the Castle delivers refined modern Scottish cuisine using fresh local ingredients like wild salmon and black brie cheese. Both are within walking distance and offer exceptional atmospheres—ideal for romantic dinners or memorable light meals amidst historic surroundings.
Capture the Mercat Cross itself—its 16th-century stone pillar and intricate carvings make a striking subject, especially during golden hour when sunlight highlights its historical details. Frame your shot with Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile in the background for dramatic depth. Nearby, the Gothic spires of St. Giles Cathedral and the fountains of Princes Street Gardens add visual interest. For creative angles, photograph reflections in the narrow alleyways off the Royal Mile, blending old-world architecture with contemporary life.
The Balmoral Hotel is a premier choice just minutes from Mercat Cross, offering prime location and classic British elegance. Its rooms provide serene views of St. Andrew Square, while the Royal Suite features a private balcony overlooking historic landmarks and cityscapes. The hotel’s dedicated concierge service assists with guided tours, restaurant reservations, and cultural experiences.
Another excellent option is Hotel Indigo Edinburgh City Centre, located within walking distance of Mercat Cross. This boutique hotel blends modern design with Scottish heritage, featuring smart room systems and premium bedding. Both properties are steps away from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile—ideal for exploring Scotland’s capital with comfort and convenience.
Yes, Mercat Cross is centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, making it highly accessible by public transport. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, which connects to major UK cities via ScotRail services. Local bus routes such as 4, 10, 16, and 24 stop near St. Andrew Square, providing quick access to the Castle, Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace.
Additionally, the Edinburgh Trams serve the Haymarket stop, a 10-minute walk away, linking the airport to the city center in about 30 minutes. Airport buses and taxis also offer efficient connections. Overall, travelers—whether domestic or international—can easily explore Edinburgh’s historic heart using reliable and frequent transit options.
Near Mercat Cross, visitors can enjoy authentic Scottish cultural experiences. Join a guided Edinburgh historical tour led by expert storytellers who reveal the medieval origins of the market square, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the city’s civic past.
Explore local taverns serving traditional dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties, and freshly baked scones, paired with regional whisky or craft beer. Many venues feature live folk music, showcasing traditional instruments such as bagpipes and fiddles.
Additionally, the weekly Edinburgh Market at St. Andrew Square offers handmade crafts, vintage items, and artisan goods—perfect for discovering local creativity. These immersive activities deepen your connection to Edinburgh’s rich heritage and vibrant community life.
See what other travelers say about Mercat Cross
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.
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.
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 The Roseate Edinburgh was a truly memorable experience. While it didn’t stand out dramatically over our previous night’s accommodation, the unique charm of being housed within a historic castle made all the difference. The atmosphere is quiet and serene—perfect for unwinding after a busy day exploring the city. Rooms were clean, well-appointed, and surprisingly peaceful, with excellent sound insulation. The surrounding area is pleasant too—cozy cafés, local shops, and easy access to public transport make getting around hassle-free. It’s not just a place to sleep; it feels like stepping into a story. Great value, great location, and an unforgettable stay overall.
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.
I was originally booked into the Indigo Hotel in Edinburgh, but due to unexpected renovations and no prior email notification about room changes, I was redirected to The Scotsman Hotel at check-in—literally across the street. Honestly, I was frustrated at first, as it felt like a downgrade in both price and quality. But stepping into The Scotsman completely changed my mind. From the moment I arrived, the welcome was warm and genuine—the staff were attentive without being pushy, even offering a complimentary champagne upon arrival. My room was cozy and beautifully decorated, with a calming colour scheme that made it perfect for unwinding after a long day. I also appreciated how they went out of their way to explain all the hotel’s amenities, including their stylish cocktail bar. It’s a real gem with a classy vibe, though it closes early at 11 PM, which is a bit disappointing if you’re looking for a late-night drink. Overall, despite the initial stress, this stay turned out to be one of the best parts of my trip. Great location, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere—definitely worth staying at again.
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 Glasshouse, Autograph Collection in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. What truly stood out was the outdoor terrace—overlooking the heart of Edinburgh’s skyline with stunning views that made every morning and evening feel special. The service was exceptional too—staff went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail, making us feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. Every interaction felt personal and thoughtful. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and charm, and it’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a memorable, high-quality stay.
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 Village Hotel Edinburgh for three nights was an absolute delight. The location is super convenient—just a short metro ride into the city center, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The room was spotless, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful sleep every night. I especially appreciated the 24-hour fitness center—it's well-equipped and perfect for early morning workouts or late-night sessions. The on-site bar has a cozy, inviting vibe with soft background music, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The common areas are clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere. With its great value and excellent amenities, this hotel stands out. I’d definitely return and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a comfortable, lively stay.
Staying at The Balmoral Hotel was an absolutely unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the location was perfect—just a five-minute walk to Calton Hill, and everything else in the Old Town, Rainbow Street, and Royal Mile was within easy reach. The hotel itself feels like a living piece of history, with elegant architecture and timeless charm. I couldn’t help but stop by room 552—the door painted a striking purple, which added such a unique touch. It’s said that J.K. Rowling found inspiration here while writing the final book in the Harry Potter series, and it’s easy to imagine why. The views from the windows are breathtaking, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, history, and convenience in Edinburgh, this is the place to be. Highly recommended.
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!
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