6 cheap hotels in Edinburgh for your next budget UK city break
From complimentary minibars to amazing rooftop terraces, these are the best affordable hotels for a budget break in Auld Reekie
Choosing an affordable base in Edinburgh is easier than you think, and doesn’t mean you have to bag a cookie-cutter budget chain or necessarily compromise on luxury. In fact, our selection of the best cheap hotels in Edinburgh features some very characterful places indeed ─ like House of Gods, a unique, seductive hotel on medieval Cowgate; or Royal Scots Club, a historic members’ institution that dates back to 1919 and still preserves its traditional, classic feel.
There are bigger names of course, such as Hotel Indigo Edinburgh and Malmaison Edinburgh City, which are perfect for when you want to stick to a budget but also want to know exactly what to expect when you arrive. Plus apartments at Fraser Suites which come with kitchens and kitchenettes that are ideal for keeping costs down as you don’t need to eat on the hoof during your stay. You also get the odd freebie thrown in, like complimentary Champagne on arrival, or free minibars.
Here’s where to stay for your next budget break in Edinburgh.
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh
Occupying five Georgian townhouses at the eastern end of leafy New Town, these bright and breezy lodgings are a funky and affordable choice for attraction-bagging city hoppers. You’re within walking distance to key attractions like the Edinburgh Playhouse, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, and George Street shops alone, with more sights easily reached on foot.
Expect decent rooms at Hotel Indigo Edinburgh, with pops of oranges or teal, feature walls depicting scenes of the city, and brightly coloured furniture. Complimentary mini-fridges (all rooms) provide Irn Bru, Teacakes, and water, and a good breakfast is served on-site. Dogs and children are welcome ─ travel cots in certain room types are free.
House of Gods, Edinburgh
This raffish little enclave on medieval Cowgate oozes debaucherous boudoir vibes ─ with theatrical interiors that play up to a delightfully sinful setting. Snug rooms are done out in burgundy reds and herringbone floors with faux fur embellishments, velvets, and the odd feature like freestanding copper bathtubs, four-poster beds and marble bathrooms. All have cocktail cabinets for any pre-dinner or late-night libations.
With its saucy, maximalist bars ─ including the rock n roll residents’ bar and Donatella’s with its drag shows and karaoke ─ House of Gods is the perfect retreat for couples seeking a hedonistic Old Town hangout without the hefty price tag.
Fraser Suites, Edinburgh
On a quiet street off the Royal Mile near Edinburgh Castle, this collection of serviced apartments suits city-breakers looking for a comfortable, homely base with access to their own cooking facilities to keep costs down. Fraser Suites’ 75 accommodations are set in a beautiful 130-year-old Victorian building with excellent city views from the building’s position on the slopes of the Old Town cliff.
Interiors are classically styled in inoffensive tones of browns and cream, and some have high ceilings, lending the space a periodic feel. When you’re not out exploring the city, you can make use of the free 24-hour gym, complimentary laundry facilities, and on-site restaurant for breakfast (should you tire of cooking). Free hampers are provided for long-stay guests.
Malmaison Edinburgh City
As befits the ‘Mal’ character, Malmaison Edinburgh City is a dark and moody hotel with a playful character. The use of red throughout the hotel accentuates big headboards, seating, and statement artworks, while underlit edges and a palette of greys bring the tone in line with a more sophisticated feel. In a corner of St Andrew Square, this is a place for the young-at-heart who want an affordable stay in New Town.
Grab a seat and a Porn Star Martini at the bar to feel part of the scene with Edinburgh locals, before heading to the brasserie for English and French bistro fare. Cosy rooms are great for sticking to your holiday budget but for something a little more special consider a Club Deluxe with Firth of Forth views, chocolates and dressing gowns.
Royal Scots Club, Edinburgh
Stepping into the Royal Scots Club will make you feel like the patron of a private members’ club ─ because you are. The club began life as a private institution founded in 1919 to honour members of the Royal Scots Regiment who died in the First World War. Homage to its history is paid in the civilised, respectful service offered to guests; the comfortable and well-equipped rooms of a traditional, classic style; and the old regimental photographs on the walls.
This is a special place to stay if you’re visiting Edinburgh on a budget; you get the refined setting, New Town location, and access to the (private) Queen Street Gardens, all at a reasonable price. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Modern Art are no more than a 10-minute stroll.
Market Street Hotel
With lots of natural woods, stone, and fabric wallpaper, this design hotel is a modern sanctuary overlooking busy Waverley Station. The accommodations have a Scottish-Scandi feel with lots of white oak, big windows and pops of dark framing, which look good against the contemporary custom-made furnishings and mod cons. All rooms at Market Street Hotel come with rainfall showers, freshly roasted coffee and milk frothers, while some have Dyson Supersonic hairdryers, GHD straighteners, and free minibars.
The complimentary glass of Champagne when you arrive is a very nice touch. If this whets your appetite, head up to the rooftop bar, Nor'loft terrace, for small Scottish plates and cocktails with a view.
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