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Nicolson Square Edinburgh isn’t just a location—it’s a vibe. Nestled in one of the city’s most elegant residential pockets, this quiet, tree-lined enclave whispers stories of old-world charm. The cobbled alleys, wrought-iron gates, and ivy-covered facades feel like stepping into a novel. Peaceful, timeless, and effortlessly stylish, it’s where Edinburgh’s soul quietly unfolds.
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 Nicolson Square Edinburgh
The Balmoral Hotel is a top choice near Nicolson Square, offering luxurious Victorian-era architecture and exceptional service just a short walk away. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions like the National Museum of Scotland and Royal Mile. For a more unique stay, The Elephant House offers literary charm—located near the famous café where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter. Both hotels are within walking distance of Waverley Station, making them ideal bases for exploring Edinburgh’s historic heart with convenient public transport links.
Walk from Nicolson Square to Edinburgh Castle in about 15 minutes along the historic Royal Mile, passing charming medieval buildings and street performers. Alternatively, take bus routes 6, 12, or 19 and alight at "Castle Street" stop—just a 5-minute ride. For optimal views and fewer crowds, visit early morning or late afternoon. Capture panoramic photos from the castle grounds to fully appreciate the grandeur of Scottish heritage. This route is essential for any visitor seeking authentic Edinburgh experiences.
Nicolson Square is a vibrant hub of Edinburgh’s cultural life. During the Edinburgh International Book Festival, join guided walks through independent bookshops and creative studios nearby. The square also hosts seasonal outdoor concerts and art markets, showcasing local talent. For history enthusiasts, a short walk leads to St. Giles' Cathedral, a stunning Gothic landmark with a majestic spire and ancient bell tower. These experiences reveal the city’s artistic soul and deep-rooted heritage, transforming a quiet square into a dynamic cultural gateway.
The Witchery by the Castle is a top choice, located just a 3-minute walk from Nicolson Square. This boutique hotel blends historic charm with modern luxury, offering elegant interiors and personalized concierge service. Guests can book Castle View Rooms for panoramic vistas of Edinburgh Castle, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion. The area is also rich in art galleries and gourmet dining spots, perfect for an authentic Scottish experience.
From Nicolson Square, it's a 10-minute walk to key sites like Royal Mile and St Giles' Cathedral. For faster travel, take bus lines 45 or 29 to Princes Street, reaching downtown in just 5 minutes. Bike-sharing stations are also nearby, offering eco-friendly access to city highlights. The area enjoys excellent connectivity—ideal for exploring on foot, by public transit, or via cycling.
Nicolson Square lies at the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, surrounded by independent bookshops, art galleries, and traditional Scottish pubs. Visit the Edinburgh College of Art exhibition spaces for rotating contemporary art displays. During summer, the square hosts outdoor concerts and craft markets, showcasing local talent. Nearby, the Red Line subway station provides easy access to venues during the Edinburgh International Festival, making it a prime spot for immersive cultural exploration.
See what other travelers say about Nicolson Square Edinburgh
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 Bruntsfield Hotel was hands down the best hotel experience I've had in Edinburgh. The room was spacious and wonderfully warm, with a cozy heater and a luxurious bathtub—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like a small bottle of whisky and chocolates left in the room. Breakfast was excellent, and I loved that they offered hot options. The location is ideal—just a short walk or quick transit ride to all major attractions. Yes, the windows are a bit small, but the view from them is absolutely stunning. Overall, this place offers incredible value for money, with elegant surroundings and exceptional service. I’d definitely stay here again.
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!
Staying at Gifford House was an absolute delight. The rooms are spacious and impeccably clean, making it feel like a true home away from home. I was pleasantly surprised to find a small thoughtful gift upon arrival—such a nice touch that added a personal feel to the experience. Located just a short walk from the city center, getting around is super convenient, whether you're exploring Edinburgh's historic streets or heading to business meetings. The value for money is outstanding, and the warm hospitality made the whole stay memorable. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Edinburgh—it’s definitely one of the best choices on the platform.
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.
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