Edinburgh City Centre Travel Guide
Edinburgh
Visit Edinburgh City Centre
Popular places to visit
Edinburgh Castle
Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.
Royal Mile
Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.
Princes Street
You can search for that perfect souvenir when you visit Princes Street, a favourite shopping spot in Edinburgh. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Grassmarket
During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
George Street
During your trip to Edinburgh, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at George Street. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
St. Andrew Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh with a stop at St. Andrew Square. Experience the area's entertainment choices and lively festivals.
Things to do
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
Palace of Holyroodhouse Admission Ticket
Royal Mile and Old Town Walking Tour
Turkish Airlines Lounge by Plaza Premium Group at Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Top hotels in Edinburgh City Centre
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
"Last minute stay and had a wonderful nights sleep after enjoying the spa and dining in their restaurant. Great location near Calton Hill, Howies, The Balmoral etc. And don’t forget to have a drink in the rooftop of The W hotel if it’s a pleasant day/evening, great views"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
"Very clean room and friendly helpful staff"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
"When we arrived the TV was un plugged and the plug would not reach the socket. We tried to call reception but the phone was not working. We went to reception and a maintenance man arrived and fixed the issue with the tv, and said he would get the phone fixed. However, when we turned the TV off to ..."
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
"Didn’t expect it to be so well maintained and the facilities. Clean, got a peaceful dorm and it’s safe!! I am very impressed Thank you!"
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
YOTEL Edinburgh
"The shower bottom door leaked a bit which meant that the shower mat got soaked. But that’s okay because they provided plenty of towels. The towels are really large as well. Pub was really good food and drinks and staff were super friendly and awesome. We were there Saturday night which had a big ..."
Reviewed on 21 Jun 2026
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
"Room clean I got the sense staff whilst helpful were reactive rather than pro. The pillows were possibly the worse I’ve ever slept on cheap and well used, I did ask for mattress toppers. None here so asked for extra duvet for my friend. I asked for more pillows.. hairdryer broken towel rail burning ..."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Check Edinburgh City Centre hotel availability
Where to stay in Edinburgh City Centre
Old Town Edinburgh
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Royal Mile to Princes Street – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.
New Town
Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Princes Street and George Street.
Leith
Known for its abundant dining options and seaside views, there's plenty to explore in Leith. Top attractions like Edinburgh Port and Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre are major draws, and you can catch the metro at The Shore Tram Stop or Port of Leith Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Tollcross
Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and King's Theatre while in the area.
Haymarket
Visitors often come to Haymarket for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Princes Street and Vietnam House Art Gallery. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Haymarket Tram Station.
