Top 11 Budget-Friendly Hotels in Edinburgh: Perfect Locations and Quality Within Reach

From the refined and meticulous Miss Jean Brodie to the royal dwelling at Holyrood, Edinburgh Has often been regarded as the aristocracy of Scotland's urban areas, it boasts an age-old charm and a somewhat elitist air. In essence, it's historic, delightful, but also rather pompous. city In this place, literature is deeply embedded in its historical tapestry, ranging from authors like Robert Louis Stevenson to J.K. Rowling. It features Michelin-starred eateries nestled within stately Georgian homes and boasts an expansive castle complex overlooking the downtown area. Overall, Edinburgh exudes royalty, brilliance, and opulence. .

The majestic townhouses of New Town and the historic avenues of Old Town shelter numerous luxurious dwellings. hotel Where reserving a room for the evening might turn out to be surprisingly costly. However, lodging in Scotland’s capital city doesn’t necessarily mean breaking the bank. Below is a list featuring some of the top budget-friendly hotels in Edinburgh for an affordable stay without sacrificing quality.

Best Budget hotels in Edinburgh

At a glance

• Best boutique budget hotel: Nira Caledonian
• Top choice for an affordable city center hotel: Voco Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
• Best family budget hotel: Stewart by Heeton
• Top affordable hotel in the Historic District: CoDE Pod – The CoURT

1. Parliament House Hotel

Just a few steps from Waverley railway station, it doesn’t get more central than the Parliament House Hotel . Calton Hill is your neighbour and Princes Street is mere footsteps away. There’s a charming, boutique feel inside where wood-panelled walls keep things classy and tartan soft furnishings are a reminder that you’re in the capital of Scotland . The cosy lounge is set around an open fire which is a delight when accompanied by a peaty malt from the drinks cabinet in the snug.

Address: 15 Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH1 3BJ

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2. Stewart by Heeton

This attractive red-brick structure houses trendy apartments. You'll find single-bed hideaways and studio flats suitable for pairs, as well as accommodations with two bedrooms ideal for families or friends traveling together. Located centrally in Edinburgh, this place offers great value. Each apartment comes equipped with a full kitchen, which can further reduce your trip expenses. The interiors boast contemporary designs with large accent walls. themed around Edinburgh You'll discover this location in Georgia's New Town, just a five-minute stroll from Princes Street but situated on a quieter side street, ensuring peace at night.

Address: 10 Young Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JB

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3. Voco Edinburgh – Royal Terrace

Located on one of Edinburgh's finest thoroughfares, this hotel sits behind Royal Terrace with direct access to Calton Hill. From here, you can easily reach the picturesque views of Old Town’s haphazard architecture and the striking vista from Princes Street after climbing up a brief yet steep path. Inside, elegant touches like chandeliers and expansive windows enhance modestly appointed rooms, allowing the historic charm of the Georgian structure to take center stage. Dine at The Terrace restaurant where meals are complemented by al fresco cocktail sessions during warmer months under lush surroundings. Afterward, head to The Nook bar for a snug setting ideal for savoring several whiskies as your day winds down.

Address: 18 Royal Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5AQ

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4. Cairn Hotel

The Cairn Hotel consists of several Georgian townhouses as its accommodations. The standard rooms provide ample lighting due to large sash windows, whereas the superior doubles offer more space. It caters well to families with special family rooms and free treats for children. Although there isn’t an on-site eatery, visitors can enjoy traditional Scottish dishes at the nearby 20 Princes Street restaurant in another one of their hotels. They also have access to the Juniper Bar for drinks, both conveniently located within walking distance along Edinburgh’s primary thoroughfare.

Address: 10-18 Windsor Street, Edinburgh EH7 5JR

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5. CoDE Pod – The CoURT

The earliest sections of this CODE POD structure originally served as a courthouse and jail, tracing their origins back to 1693. Recently, workers uncovered a 'Lost Close'—a narrow alleyway that had been concealed below ground—at the site, which they have since converted into an evocative area for exclusive whiskey and gin tastings. Although the edifice boasts extensive historical roots, its interiors exhibit cutting-edge technology and top-notch amenities. While classified officially as a hostel, it draws inspiration from traditional Japanese capsule hotels, offering isolated sleeping compartments designed for optimal rest. Additionally, guests can enjoy freshly made waffles at the morning dining station.

Address: 1A Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RF

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6. Nira Caledonia

This delightful hotel in New Town offers an affordable yet chic experience without sacrificing style or quality. A brief stroll will take you to Stockbridge, Edinburgh’s vibrant neighborhood filled with indie stores and upscale cafes. Previously the residence of lawyer, literary critic, and writer John Wilson from "Blackwood's Magazine," the Nira Caledonia retains its historic charm by prohibiting modern additions such as elevators and central air conditioning. Despite these limitations, each room boasts contemporary amenities alongside elegant features including spacious beds and expansive sash windows that showcase picturesque vistas of the beautiful New Town surroundings.

Address: 6 and 10 Gloucester Place, Edinburgh EH3 6EF

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7. Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge

Rising boldly from Edinburgh’s revitalized Fountainbridge district, the Moxy Hotel stands out with its striking red brick facade. Its accommodations range from cozy twin bedrooms to spacious family suites, all featuring contemporary and understated designs. On the first level, you’ll find an ultra-modern workspace along with a chic coffee bar. Additionally, numerous relaxation areas boast trendy elements such as suspended pod-shaped seats, a foosball table, and lush greenery cascading over large communal tables. However, the true standout feature is the Lochrin Bar—a top-floor establishment offering panoramic vistas of Edinburgh’s western neighborhoods, especially enchanting during evening hours.

Address: 2 Freer Gait, Edinburgh EH3 9FR

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8. The Grassmarket Hotel

Victoria Terrace is a rainbow of townhouses climbing up from the Grassmarket to George IV Bridge and is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. The Grassmarket Hotels is right on the corner of this street, putting the sights of Edinburgh’s shambling Old Town within easy walking distance. Snug quarters keep the price tag low here and ‘cosy’ is very much the watchword. But if you don’t mind compromising on space, you’ll find perfectly appointed rooms for singles, doubles and all the way up to a quad room for groups. The decor is Scandi-chic and each room feels stylishly modern but it’s really all about the location for this one.

Address: 94-96 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JR

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9. The Hotel Along the Mile

At The Inn on the Mile, you'll find yourself immersed in a classic pub atmosphere complete with cozy upstairs accommodations. This upscale gastropub specializes in authentic Scottish cuisine, while each of the nine uniquely styled rooms provides a luxurious retreat. Picture soaring ceilings adorned with ornate moldings and ensuite bathrooms featuring indulgent deep-soaking tubs. Built-in the 1920s as the headquarters for the British Linen Bank, this historic structure carries echoes of the past within its walls. Its impressive exterior blends seamlessly into the surroundings along the Royal Mile, close enough to iconic landmarks like Holyrood Palace, St Giles Cathedral, and Edinburgh Castle that they might almost share an address.

Address: 82 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LL

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10. Stay Central Hotel

Located in the Cowgate area, this hotel places guests squarely amidst Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife scene, where subterranean clubs tucked under historic vaults resonate with thumping music well into late nights. The accommodations vary from cozy yet meticulously designed double rooms to an expansive loft space capable of housing up to nine individuals—think lavishness reminiscent of a celebrity-studded reality show home. Larger quarters feature SMEG refrigerators perfect for chilling drinks and vintage gaming consoles like the Sega Megadrive for nostalgic fun. Downstairs, within what feels akin to a modern industrial setting, lies a café alongside secluded areas equipped with board games and a lively bar. Ideal for those revelers who enjoy sleeping in after spirited evenings out.

Address: 139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS

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11. B+B Edinburgh

Located in Edinburgh's picturesque New Town, this hotel stands between bustling Princes Street and serene Dean Village. Housed within a historic Georgian townhouse, the property exudes a cathedral-like atmosphere through its magnificent lobby with an intricately carved wooden staircase leading to luxurious guest rooms. The breakfast menu features a variety of local ingredients transformed into substantial meals perfect for energizing your day of exploration. However, mornings aren’t the only time to indulge; you can also enjoy tea in the elegant library room or unwind with a nightcap at the hotel bar before retiring for the evening.

Address: 3 Rothesay Terrace, Edinburgh EH3 7RY

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