The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Edinburgh, Scotland [2023]

Edinburgh, Scotland is characterized by its hills and the city is split between a picturesque medieval Old Town and a Georgian New Town full of neoclassical landmarks. This compact location is a treasure trove of incredible sights and views, with the backdrop of Arthur’s Seat adding an additional layer of natural beauty to the area.

Visitors to Edinburgh will find a wide selection of boutique hotels in this spectacular city.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Edinburgh

11 Brunswick Street

Price: From $162

The beautiful 11 Brunswick Street can be found in a Georgian townhouse in a quiet area of Edinburgh within walking distance of Calton Hill and Princes Street. The building at No. 11 dates back to 1822. It was converted into a hotel in 1991 and was refurbished in 2012 to ensure it provides the most luxurious boutique experience to guests.

There is an on-site brasserie on the ground floor serving light lunch, fine dining, and even a 5-course tasting menu to sample all the available delights. 11 Brunswick Street also offers in-house wellness treatments thanks to a partnership with beauty therapy company You.

The opulent rooms at this boutique hotel include Egyptian cotton linens, plush bathrobes, designer toiletries, rich fabrics, and custom furnishings. Guests can choose between having firm or soft pillows to ensure the comfort of their beauty rest.

21212

Price: From $278

Edinburgh’s trendy 21212 can be found on the Royal Terrace, providing a unique boutique experience. The 21212 is a Michelin-starred restaurant envisioned by Paul Kitching and partner Katie O’Brien to also offer 5-star accommodation.

These sophisticated guest rooms can be found on the upper 2 floors of the elegant building, offering views over the peaceful gardens or over the city. Guests staying in the rooms overlooking the city can even catch a glimpse of the Firth of Forth when the weather allows.

Each spacious room includes a stylish design, an en suite bathroom, and amenities like a smart TV with Bluetooth speaker, complimentary Wi-Fi, designer bath products, plush bathrobes, and enough storage space to comfortably accommodate guest luggage.

Guests will have the added feature of getting to easily dine at one of the best restaurants in the city.

Fingal

Price: From $381

Those looking to experience Edinburgh from a different — yet still luxurious — point of view will take great delight in the Fingal Floating Hotel, located on the Port of Leith waterfront. This lavishly refurbished ship treats guests to opulent lodgings outside the bustle of the city.

Full of old-world elegance and modern comfort, the Fingal offers guests sophisticated cabins and many other boutique facilities. Guests can enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, and lavish dinner at the Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar.

Rooms and suites are located in the ship’s cabins. Accommodation options include classic and luxury cabins, classic and luxury duplexes, and the Skerryvore Suite. In-cabin amenities include a rainfall shower, smart TV, coffee and tea making facilities, underfloor heating, air conditioning, and pampering designer toiletries from Noble Isle.

The Glasshouse

Price: From $283

Standing on the site of the former Lady Glenorchy Church, The Glasshouse has been an elegant boutique hotel since 2003. Following extensive refurbishing, the hotel is now a stunning blend of trendsetting modernity and historical details.

This luxurious option features a gothic church façade and a glass exterior. The Glasshouse overlooks the Edinburgh city center and Calton Hill. The sprawling rooftop garden is a perfect place for guests to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of the city.

Light is the focus at the Glasshouse, with floor-to-ceiling windows in every space. Each room is cozy and full of modern style and comfort. In-room amenities include a Nespresso coffee maker, full-length mirror, flat-screen TV, Roberts Bluetooth radio, minibar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and heated bathroom floors.

Designer bath products are provided by Elemis, and there is also an iPod docking station in every room.

House of Gods Hotel

Price: From $194

The extravagant House of Gods can be found in Edinburgh’s trendy Cowgate, in the heart of Old Town. House of Gods follows an unorthodox approach to the boutique experience, but without shying away from opulence.

This stand-out location includes eclectic styles that meet in a harmonious clash. Guests won’t find neutral color palettes in this unforgettable place. There’s even an on-site cocktail bar that treats visitors to indulgent drinks.

The hotel offers a luxury breakfast hamper, full butler service, and complimentary milk and cookies in the evening. Bar tabs are taken care of by House of Gods, so guests can celebrate their stay in style.

Each room at the House of Gods includes a different theme that will transport guests to different eras. The Cabin is inspired by the Orient Express, while Versailles influences the Classic, and the Suite brings Victorian sophistication.

In-room amenities include a hidden Nespresso machine, a safe, a wet-wall bathroom with marble accents, a hidden TV mirror, and a custom handcrafted cocktail bar.

The Lane

Price: From $150

The Lane is a chic boutique hotel located next to Morningside Road, just 2 miles away from central Edinburgh. This scenic location is ideal for those looking for a more quiet yet upscale lodging option from which to discover the rest of the city.

The Lane has its own bar and restaurant next door to the hotel. It features a collection of over 250 Scottish whiskies and treats guests to fresh seafood and indulgent meals. The rooms at the Lane are split between 2 Victorian houses that were built in the 19th century.

There are still plenty of original features, and modern conveniences have been added. Each room at the Lane has a unique design with a focus on sophistication and elegant interiors. Accommodation options include classic, deluxe, and luxury guest rooms.

Prestonfield House

Price: From $534

Prestonfield House was built in the Baroque style in the 17th century as the home of Edinburgh’s Lord Provost. It has now been a luxurious boutique hotel for over 6 decades, and it continues to be known as one of the finest lodging options in the city.

The mansion can be found only 5 minutes away from the city center. The sprawling gardens of Prestonfield House stretch towards the magnificent sight of Arthur’s Seat. Guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in this upscale location. They can also access the Rhubarb Restaurant for delicious main meals.

Complimentary shoeshine service is available to those staying at this boutique option. The rooms each feature a unique design that includes antique furniture, a writing desk, fine linens, and an extensive collection of cushions.

The Rutland Hotel

Price: From $290

The Rutland Hotel can be found in Edinburgh’s West End, close to the Edinburgh Castle. Behind an elegant Edwardian exterior, discerning travelers will find a refined world of stylish rooms, bars, and eateries.

This boutique experience is full of character and local charm. The luxurious rooms and suites at the Rutland Hotel feature refined contemporary design. Each of them includes a selection of filter coffee and designer teas, along with bath amenities from Arran Aromatics and complimentary newspapers.

Free Wi-Fi is provided in every room, as well as a flat-screen TV, a GHD straightener, and Bluetooth-enabled devices. Accommodation options include standard and executive double rooms, as well as exclusive castle view rooms.

Junior suites are also available for guests looking to treat themselves to more space and opulence. The junior suites add a spa-style bath and a super king-size bed.

The Scotsman

Price: From $380

The Scotsman can be found in gorgeous Baroque-style buildings dating back to 1905. Located on Edinburgh’s central North Bridge, The Scotsman used to be the headquarters of one of the most important Scottish newspapers.

This luxurious boutique hotel features preserved original details like the grand marble staircase, stained glass windows, and elegant floor-to-ceiling wood panels. This historic hotel is full of modern comforts and offers unparalleled views over the city.

The Scotsman’s many luxuries stretch to the signature amenities it treats guests to. New arrivals are received with a welcome sample of whiskey to set the right tone for the stay. Guests can opt to request their breakfast in bed if they’d like to relax in the mornings.

In-room amenities include complimentary newspapers, deluxe toiletries from Arran’s Sense of Scotland line, and a Nespresso machine.

The Witchery by the Castle

Price: From $981

The Witchery by the Castle is a glamour-filled location ideal for the discerning traveler. This unique boutique experience offers plenty of quirky refinement in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The Witchery is lit up in red hues once night has fallen, and the gothic façade leads to a medieval-style front desk full of warmth.

The property is an authentic and indulgent way to enjoy Edinburgh. It features all-suite accommodation that is as decadent as the name suggests. Each suite has a different theme, from the dark and dramatic Armory to the romantic atmosphere of the Heriot.

In-suite amenities include a flat-screen TV, an Amazon Echo device, a Nespresso machine, a fridge, and a GHD hair straightener. They all have adjustable mood lighting that is sure to add to the atmosphere with rich tones of purple or red.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh features a compact layout, with gems at every turn. From Calton Hill and Edinburgh Castle to the numerous museums and galleries, visitors will find many wonders to keep them entertained in the city, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.