With its majestic architecture steeped in history, Edinburgh offers an exceptional setting for a luxurious stay. The Scottish capital boasts a number of 5-star hotels whose refinement and comfort we appreciated.
Whether you’re looking for a historic residence with Scottish charm, a breathtaking view of Edinburgh Castle or an exceptional spa, the choice is wide. Discover our selection of the city’s best 5-star hotels for an unforgettable stay.
Luxury hotels in Edinburgh – our opinion
We were thrilled by the elegance and character of Edinburgh‘s luxury hotel offering. From historic mansions with hushed charm, iconic establishments with impeccable service and boutique hotels with refined design, the city offers a varied upscale experience. Each address has a strong identity, combining Scottish heritage and modern comfort.
Our favorites are old mansions like Prestonfield House Hotel and historic establishments like Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel and, of course, the must-see Balmoral Hotel.
1. Prestonfield House Hotel (Prestonfield)
Why stay there?
Nestled in a verdant setting at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, Prestonfield House Hotel offered us a unique luxury experience in exceptional surroundings. This 5-star manor house features elegant rooms with period furnishings and breathtaking views over the gardens and park.
The Rhubarb Restaurant offers delicious Scottish cuisine in a refined setting. We were won over by the unique atmosphere of this historic establishment. What would you say to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city in this haven of peace?
Luxury touches we love
- Intimate, green surroundings
- Our room, richly decorated with velvets and antiques (especially the four-poster bed!).
- Personalized service and attention to detail
- The Rhubarb Restaurant in an elegant room with glittering chandeliers
- The salons and their Baroque decor
- Private gardens and the presence of animals (peacocks, Highland cows, foxes)
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Prestonfield
- Facilities: restaurant, lounges, whisky bar, terrace, gardens, golf course, afternoon tea, room service
- Parking: free on site
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Need to rent a car in Scotland?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the single-lane roads
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
2. Gleneagles Townhouse Hotel (New Town)
Why stay there?
TheGleneagles Townhouse Hotel embodies urban elegance in the heart of Edinburgh. Every detail has been taken care of in this 5-star establishment. The rooms are decorated in a perfect blend of Georgian architecture and modern tones. A highly prestigious setting where everything is awe-inspiring.
The Spence Restaurant offers a refined gastronomic experience in a particularly elegant setting. We were impressed by the impeccable level of service. Just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile, the Gleneagles Hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and central location.
Luxury touches we love
- The sober elegance of architecture in a historic building
- Rooms combining noble materials and contemporary touches
- Private club and rooftop with breathtaking city views
- The Spence Restaurant and Spa
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Facilities: restaurant, bar, afternoon tea, spa, wellness center, gym, sauna, room service
- Parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (New Town)
Why stay there?
Just a stone’s throw from prestigious Princes Street and George Street, theKimpton Charlotte Square Hotel combines contemporary luxury with traditional charm. The discreetly and elegantly decorated rooms offer exceptional comfort. Gastronomy is also very much in evidence at this address.
While the modern cuisine of Restaurant Aizle has won Michelin recognition, we were able to sample the Mediterranean flavors of Restaurant BABA. As for The Garden‘s inner courtyard, it welcomes you from breakfast to evening cocktails. Would you like to combine the relaxing benefits of a spa with gastronomic discovery during your stay in Edinburgh?
Luxury touches we love
- The refined setting of a Georgian-style building
- Sophisticated room design with luxurious fabrics
- The spa, with its indoor pool and relaxing treatments
- Restaurant Aizle, 1 Michelin star
- Restaurant Baba and its Mediterranean cuisine
- Personalized service
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Facilities: indoor pool, spa, gym, restaurants (including one with Michelin stars)
- Private parking lot
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
4. The Balmoral Hotel (New Town)
Why stay there?
A veritable institution since 1902,The Balmoral Hotel sits enthroned on Princes Street with its majestic clock tower. This 5-star establishment embodies Scottish hotel excellence. Its Number One Restaurant has been awarded 4 AA rosettes, and its Scotch Bar offers over 500 whiskies.
The spacious rooms feature marble bathrooms, some with spectacular views of the castle. You’ll appreciate the quality of service and attention to detail. The Palm Court, with its traditional tea service, has become one of our favorite places in Edinburgh. Why not treat yourself to an exceptional moment in this emblematic palace of the Scottish capital?
Luxury touches we love
- The timeless luxury of an exceptional historic establishment
- Scottish charm in the rooms
- The Palm Court Restaurant, an iconic tea room under a superb glass dome
- The luxurious spa
- The hushed atmosphere
Practical information
- Neighborhood: New Town
- Facilities: restaurants, whisky bar, tea room, indoor pool, spa, steam room, gym, room service
- Parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Plan your dream trip in Scotland with my guide!
- 15 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 170+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 170+ original photos to help you choose
5. Hotel The Witchery by the Castle (Old Town)
Why stay there?
One of a kind,The Witchery by the Castle offers 9 sumptuous suites in distinctive styles. Each is a decorative “masterpiece”, with oak four-poster beds, velvet-upholstered walls and flamboyant red and gold accents.
But it was the restaurant ‘s decadent backyard setting that most appealed to us, as it did to many celebrities. We loved the romantic , gothic atmosphere of the place. Tea time is also an experience in itself. A unique theatrical moment at one of Edinburgh’s most exclusive addresses?
Luxury touches we love
- Its location at the foot of Edinburgh Castle
- Its baroque and intimate atmosphere, out of time
- Theatrically decorated suites, with carved woodwork, four-poster beds and deep velvets
- Bathrooms with silver island bathtubs
- A prestigious restaurant with a hushed ambience
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Old Town
- Facilities: restaurant, afternoon tea, terrace, breakfast basket
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Other palaces and 5-star hotels in Edinburgh
- 100 Princes Street Hotel: Scottish elegance in an intimate, exclusive setting inspired by private clubs, with breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.
Check photos and availability – and book now! - Hotel Cheval Old Town Chambers: modern luxury and historic charm in elegant, spacious apartments in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile.
Check photos, photos and availability – and book now!
Want to see more of the best Scotland has to offer?
- Most beautiful landscapes in Scotland – read article
- Best things to do in Scotland – read article
- Best Scotland destinations – where to go? – read article
- Best Scottish Castles – read article
- Most beautiful lochs in Scotland – read article
- Most scenic drives in Scotland – read article
- The magnificent Isle of Skye – read my best-of guide
- The magnificent Wester Ross region – read article
- The Borders Abbeys including Melrose Abbey and the photogenic Jedburgh Abbey
Plan your dream trip in Scotland with my guide!
- 15 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 170+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 170+ original photos to help you choose
