Edinburgh Best Neighborhood Guide

The Old Town is the medieval heart of Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage site centered on the steeply sloping Royal Mile that connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The architecture is ancient, towering, and atmospheric, defined by its narrow closes (alleyways) and hidden vaults. Boutique hotels here lean heavily into this historic, sometimes gothic aesthetic, often featuring exposed stone and heavy tartans. This is the best area for a short city break, as you step out of your hotel right into the middle of the city's most famous landmarks.

Just north of Princes Street lies the New Town, a masterpiece of 18th-century Georgian city planning. Characterized by wide, cobbled streets, grandiose squares (like Charlotte Square), and elegant townhouses, it starkly contrasts the cramped Old Town. Boutique accommodations here often occupy these massive townhouses, offering spacious rooms with high ceilings and sophisticated, neoclassical design. It is ideal for travelers who want premium shopping, excellent upscale dining, and a refined atmosphere without the steep hills.

Located to the northwest of the New Town, moving downhill towards the Water of Leith, Stockbridge is an affluent, village-like neighborhood. It features beautiful Georgian and Victorian houses, leafy streets, and an incredibly strong independent retail scene with artisan cheesemongers, vintage shops, and excellent cafes. Boutique accommodations are more likely to be upscale guesthouses or chic B&Bs rather than large hotels. It is the perfect choice for return visitors or travelers who prefer a refined, local, residential feel over being directly next to major tourist sites.

Historically Edinburgh's gritty port district, Leith (situated a couple of miles north of the city center) has undergone significant gentrification to become a culinary hotspot. Specifically, the area known as The Shore is lined with Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy waterfront bistros. Boutique hotels here are often housed in converted warehouses or nautical buildings. Stay here if you prioritize food above all else and don’t mind taking a tram or bus to reach the Castle and the Old Town.

The West End sits directly adjacent to the New Town, sharing its grandiose Georgian architecture but with a slightly quieter, more residential vibe. It is characterized by cobbled streets, hidden mews alleys, and a range of cultural venues. Boutique hotels here often blend Victorian elegance with modern bohemian touches. It provides an excellent compromise: it's very close to both the New Town shopping and the Old Town sights (via Princes Street), but feels slightly removed from the tourist throngs.