Climb to the top of Nelson's Monument, a striking white column perched on Arthur's Seat, and let the panoramic views sweep over Edinburgh like a storybook. This iconic tribute to Admiral Nelson isn’t just about naval glory—it’s your front-row seat to the city’s soul: the castle looming below, the Firth of Forth stretching into the distance, and the intricate weave of Old Town and New Town unfolding before you. Snap a photo from the summit and become part of the skyline’s legacy.


Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, just steps from Princes Street and George Street, this hotel blends luxury with convenience. Rooms feature Smart TVs, premium linens, and complimentary treat boxes plus a fridge stocked with fresh milk. Dine at The Garden, an indoor courtyard serving everything from salads to Scottish cocktails, or savor Middle Eastern flavors at BABA’s mezze grill. Unwind with free access to the gym, pool, and spa (some treatments at extra cost). Perfect for business or leisure, it’s a 5-minute walk to Waverley Station and 7 miles from the airport—effortless connectivity!

This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a 10-minute walk from Princes Street and George Street. Enjoy the garden views and take advantage of free WiFi and concierge services. Whether for business or leisure, its meeting rooms and wedding services cater to all needs. The on-site restaurant serves local cuisine with garden views, and the bar is ideal for evening drinks. Rooms are equipped with minibars and smart TVs, plus luxury toiletries for a comfortable stay.

















Everything you need to know about Nelson Monument
The Smith Hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from Nelson's Monument on Castle Rock, offers exceptional value and proximity. Its modern Scottish-inspired design features panoramic windows with sweeping views of the city skyline and the monument itself. The rooftop restaurant, The Sky Bar, serves locally sourced Scottish cuisine with a view—perfect for sunset dining. Easily accessible via tram from Edinburgh Waverley Station or a 15-minute scenic walk, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and character.
The most convenient option is taking the Edinburgh Tram from Waverley Station to the "Castle Terrace" stop—just a 7-minute walk to Nelson’s Monument. For a scenic alternative, stroll up Princes Street from the city center, passing through the Royal Botanic Garden and St Giles' Cathedral, immersing yourself in Edinburgh’s historic charm. Several bus routes (including 30, 36, and 42) also serve the area, making it accessible for short trips and day visitors.
Climb to the viewing platform of Nelson’s Monument for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Edinburgh’s Old Town and Castle Rock—especially magical at sunset. Pair your visit with a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle to explore Admiral Nelson’s legacy and naval history. During summer, the monument often hosts performances as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, offering open-air concerts and theatrical shows in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Castle Hotel is a top choice near Nelson's Column, just 1.2 km away with easy walking access. Located in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, this hotel offers elegant Scottish-style rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of Arthur's Seat and the illuminated Nelson's Column at night. Its prime position along the Royal Mile connects seamlessly to key attractions like Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle.
Another excellent option is Albert Square Hotel, situated directly beside the column, providing unmatched convenience with nearby bus routes leading to the city center and major sights. Both properties blend historic charm with contemporary comfort, making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic Edinburgh experiences without compromising on location or value.
A must-try experience near Nelson's Column is hiking the Arthur's Seat Trail, starting just below the monument. This 3-km path offers breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh City, the Firth of Forth, and distant hills—perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes when crowds are light and the atmosphere serene.
During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the area transforms into an open-air stage with live music, street performances, and pop-up art installations around the column, blending historical architecture with vibrant contemporary culture. For deeper insight, join a guided "Secret Stories of Edinburgh" tour, where local historians reveal lesser-known tales about Admiral Nelson, the tower’s symbolism, and its role in shaping the city’s identity—adding rich context to your visit.
The most convenient route from Nelson's Column to Edinburgh Castle is a 1.5-kilometer walk along the Royal Mile, heading north past St Giles Cathedral and the Old Town Market. The path is flat and well-paved, ideal for travelers with luggage, offering scenic views and frequent rest points along the way.
For those preferring less walking, take Bus 400 from nearby stops, alighting at "Castle Terrace" in just 8 minutes. With frequent departures and low fares, this service provides a comfortable alternative while still delivering direct access to the castle entrance. Whether you choose the historical ambiance of walking or the efficiency of public transit, both options ensure a seamless journey tailored to your travel style.
See what other travelers say about Nelson Monument

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.

From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality at Kimpton Charlotte Square made our stay in Edinburgh truly special. A huge shoutout to Brian from the concierge team—he was absolutely outstanding! Not only does he speak seven languages fluently, but his knowledge of local spots and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. Whether it was recommending hidden gems or helping with last-minute travel plans, he went above and beyond with a smile. His professionalism and personal touch turned what could’ve been just another hotel stay into an unforgettable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, combined with the charming atmosphere of the hotel, made this place feel like home. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for warmth, style, and exceptional service—truly a standout in Edinburgh.

Staying at The Bonham was an excellent experience overall. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the city center and well-connected by public transit. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, and the breakfast spread was impressive with fresh options including made-to-order eggs—perfect for starting the day. One downside was the 12.5% fee applied to all purchases made through the platform, which felt a bit unexpected and not clearly communicated upfront. Still, despite that, the quality of the hotel, service, and value for money made it worth it. I’d definitely recommend and stay here again.

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.

Staying at the Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh was an absolute delight. Located right within the University of Edinburgh campus, the hotel offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Just a short 10-minute walk from the historic Old Town, I had easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. The convenience of having a nearby supermarket and a Starbucks made daily errands effortless. Best of all, the rooms come with a microwave and refrigerator—ideal for preparing simple meals, which is a huge plus when traveling or staying longer. The spacious, well-designed rooms combined with the excellent location make this hotel a standout choice. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm.

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.

I was completely spontaneous with my trip to Edinburgh and ended up booking this hotel on a whim—what a great surprise! Located just a 500-meter walk from the train station, it’s incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by rail. What truly impressed me, though, was how peaceful and quiet the rooms were at night—despite being right in the heart of the city, I had a deep, restful sleep without any noise disturbance. The overall atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a well-designed interior that feels both modern and cozy. It’s hands-down one of the best value stays I’ve had in Edinburgh. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and tranquility all in one place, this hotel is a must-try. I’ll definitely be returning.

Staying at Le Monde Hotel was such a delightful experience from start to finish. Each room is named after a different city, giving it a unique and personal touch—warm, cozy, and full of character. The location couldn’t be better: just steps away from St. Andrew Square, with easy access to buses and trams heading straight to the airport. Right across the square is Edinburgh’s main bus station, where tours to the Highlands depart daily—perfect for spontaneous adventures. A short stroll takes you to Rose Street, a vibrant hub packed with diverse restaurants and cafes. I even stumbled upon Happy Lamb Hotpot right near the Scott Monument—had a steaming bowl of lamb hotpot on a rainy day, and it was absolutely unforgettable. Comfortable rooms, unbeatable location, and great food nearby make this hotel a real gem. Highly recommend!

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.

Our late August stay at Ard-Na-Said was absolutely delightful. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and at home—everything we needed was thoughtfully provided. Check-in was smooth and hassle-free, and the quiet, safe neighborhood added to the peaceful vibe. We especially loved the afternoon tea at Prestonfield, just a short, pleasant stroll away—perfect for relaxing after exploring. The area is packed with great dining options; we had a fantastic time at Wee Greek and Papaya Thai, both offering delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. The lounge setup with coffee, tea, and snacks is a real plus—ideal for unwinding. Getting into town by bus is super easy, and it’s only a quick walk to the base of Arthur’s Seat (though the hike up is definitely no joke!). We’d happily return to this charming guesthouse without hesitation. A wonderful balance of comfort, convenience, and character—highly recommended!

Stayed two nights at Destiny Scotland - St Andrew Square Apartments, and had a fantastic experience overall. The first night was in room 1B—clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. On the second night, I upgraded to the 3rd-floor premium room (unit 8), which had a great location right next to the elevator for easy access. The kitchenette is fully equipped with a dishwasher and fridge—perfect for self-catering. The window faces the street, giving nice views during the day, though it’s worth noting that noise from the road might be noticeable if you’re sensitive to sound. One small suggestion: repositioning the living area and bedroom could improve the flow and privacy. The bathroom in this unit is slightly smaller than the one in 1B, which I personally preferred. Despite that, the location is unbeatable—everything is within walking distance, from historic landmarks to shopping spots. Public transport is just steps away too. For convenience, cleanliness, and value, this place truly earns a full five-star rating.
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