If you’re staring at a map of Edinburgh trying to figure out Old Town vs New Town and where you should actually book your hotel, you’re not alone. This is probably the single most common question first-time visitors ask, and honestly, there’s no universally correct answer. It depends entirely on what kind of trip you’re after.
I’ve stayed on both sides of this city more times than I can count, and I’m going to break down exactly what makes each area different, who each one suits, and which hotels are genuinely worth your money. No fluff, just what you actually need to know before you hit book.
Chapters of this Article:
The Quick Answer: Old Town or New Town Edinburgh?
If you want cobbled closes, medieval atmosphere, and to be steps from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, stay in Old Town.
If you want wide Georgian streets, upscale shopping, quieter nights, and easier accessibility, stay in New Town.
Both districts sit next to each other and are walkable in ten to fifteen minutes, which is part of why this decision feels harder than it needs to be. You genuinely can’t go wrong location-wise. It just comes down to vibe.
Old Town vs New Town Edinburgh: What’s Actually the Difference?
Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town aren’t just neighborhood names. They’re two distinct pieces of history sitting side by side, and together they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Old Town is the medieval heart of the city. Think narrow closes, steep wynds, tenement buildings stacked on top of each other, and the Royal Mile running straight from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. This is where the ghost tours happen, where the whisky bars hide in basements, and where the city’s oldest pubs still pour pints.
New Town was built starting in the 1760s as Edinburgh’s answer to overcrowding in the Old Town. Architect James Craig designed it with a grid layout of elegant Georgian squares, crescents, and terraces. Construction kicked off in earnest around 1767 and continued for decades, with George Street and Charlotte Square as its centerpiece.
Old Town vs New Town Edinburgh Map: Where Is Each One?
Picture Princes Street Gardens as the dividing line.
- Old Town: Everything south of the gardens, rising up the hill toward the castle.
- New Town: Everything north of the gardens, including Princes Street itself, George Street, and Charlotte Square.
They sit close enough that you can walk from one to the other in under ten minutes across Waverley Bridge, the Mound, or North Bridge. This is why so many hotels marketed as “Old Town” or “New Town” are really only a few streets apart.
Old Town vs New Town Edinburgh Reddit Chatter: What Do Locals and Repeat Visitors Say?
Search “old town vs new town edinburgh reddit” and you’ll find the same debate playing out again and again. A lot of locals steer first-timers toward staying near the Royal Mile so they can walk everywhere without needing transport. Others push back and say New Town hotels tend to be quieter at night and closer to Waverley Station for day trips.
The honest consensus tends to land here: Old Town is better for atmosphere and sightseeing on foot, while New Town is better for peace and quiet, easier luggage hauling, and a slightly more polished stay.
Quick Comparison: Stay in Old Town or New Town Edinburgh
| Feature | Old Town | New Town |
| Vibe | Medieval, atmospheric, buzzing | Georgian, elegant, calmer |
| Best For | First-timers, history lovers, nightlife | Shoppers, couples, quieter stays |
| Walkability to Castle | 2 to 10 minutes | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Noise Level at Night | Can be loud, especially in August | Generally quieter |
| Terrain | Steep, cobbled, hilly | Flat, wide pavements |
| Shopping | Souvenir shops, whisky stores | George Street boutiques, designer brands |
| Price Range | ££ to ££££ | ££ to ££££ |
Who Should Stay in Old Town Edinburgh?
Old Town Edinburgh suits you if you’re visiting for the first time and want to be in the thick of it. You’ll be a short walk from Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the closes where most of the city’s ghost stories originate.
It also suits anyone chasing an Old Town whisky crawl, since some of the best whisky bars in the city cluster around the Royal Mile and Grassmarket. Old Town pub regulars will tell you the Old Town has more character per square foot than anywhere else in the city.
The trade-off is noise and hills. Cobblestones and steep closes aren’t kind to wheeled suitcases or anyone with mobility concerns, and rooms near the Royal Mile can pick up street noise, especially during the Fringe Festival in August.
Who Should Stay in New Town Edinburgh?
New Town suits travelers who want a base that’s calmer at night but still walkable to everything. George Street is lined with restaurants, cocktail bars, and high-end shops. Importantly, it’s flat, which matters more than people expect after a long day of sightseeing.
If dining and shopping are high on your list, New Town options range from top-tier brasseries to relaxed cafes, and George Street alone could keep you busy for an evening or two.
New Town is also the better pick if you’re interested in classic architecture. The grand Georgian facades on Charlotte Square and St Andrew Square are a huge part of why people fall in love with this part of the city.
Best Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh
1. The Scotsman Hotel Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: A former newspaper headquarters turned boutique luxury hotel, famous for its private cinema and grand marble staircase.
- Star Rating: 4-Star Boutique Luxury
- Location & Accessibility: 20 North Bridge, right on the Old Town boundary, a one-minute walk to the Royal Mile and Waverley Station.
- Price Range: £110 – £650+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
This Baroque building was once home to The Scotsman newspaper, and it still shows in the rich oak paneling and grand marble staircase. It’s a genuinely unique stay for anyone who likes a hotel with a rich local history.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- The Scotsman Picturehouse: A 48-seat private cinema inside the hotel, a feature almost no other hotel in the city can match.
- The Scotsman Steps: 58 individual marble steps connecting North Bridge down to Market Street, right outside the door.
- Central Position: Perfectly placed on the bridge connecting Old and New Town, giving you instant access to both.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Room Sizes Vary: Due to the historic building layout, some entry-level rooms are cozy.
- Traffic Noise: North Bridge is a busy thoroughfare, so request a high-floor room facing away from the bridge if you are a sensitive sleeper.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Ask about cinema screening times when you check in. It’s a lovely rainy-afternoon activity during a Scottish break.
👉 Check Rates & Availability for The Scotsman Hotel Edinburgh on Agoda
2. Old Town Chambers, Autograph Collection Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: Luxury serviced apartments right off the Royal Mile, ideal for families or longer stays wanting a kitchen and extra living space.
- Star Rating: 5-Star Luxury Serviced Apartments (Cheval Collection)
- Location & Accessibility: 329 High Street, two minutes from the Royal Mile. Lift access is available to main blocks, with short stair splits in historic sections.
- Price Range: £150 – £800+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Cheval Old Town Chambers is a collection of high-end apartments tucked into a historic close just off High Street. Rooms come with full kitchens, premium linens, and sound-insulated construction, which is a massive plus given how lively the Royal Mile gets.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- Full Kitchens & Living Spaces: Great for families or anyone wanting to self-cater during their stay.
- Unbeatable Location: You genuinely cannot get closer to the Royal Mile without staying in a museum.
- Modern Luxury in Historic Closes: Blends exposed stone walls with contemporary furnishings and rain showers.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Historic Close Navigation: While main blocks have elevators, reaching specific historic sub-buildings requires navigating cobblestone closes and small stair steps.
- High Demand: Due to its position right off High Street, peak summer dates book out far in advance.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Request a high-floor apartment facing north for views out toward the Firth of Forth across the city roofs.
👉 Book Cheval Old Town Chambers Edinburgh on Agoda for Best Price Guarantees
3. Fraser Suites Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: A Victorian aparthotel near St Giles’ Cathedral, solid for travelers who want apartment-style flexibility without sacrificing location.
- Star Rating: 4-Star Aparthotel
- Location & Accessibility: 12-26 St Giles Street, two minutes from St Giles’ Cathedral and a short walk to Grassmarket.
- Price Range: £90 – £600+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Fraser Suites occupies a row of Victorian buildings just off the Royal Mile. The rooms lean comfortable and practical, each featuring a handy kitchenette, climate control, and a pillow menu.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- In-Room Kitchenettes: Equipped with microwave, fridge, and kettle for easy breakfasts or light meals.
- 24-Hour Reception & Fitness Room: Offers hotel-style convenience with apartment space.
- Close to Castle Hill: A short seven-minute walk up to Edinburgh Castle.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Breakfast Surcharge: Breakfast is available on-site but usually comes at an extra daily charge.
- Understated Decor: The style is classic and functional rather than trendy boutique.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Book a One-Bedroom Deluxe Suite if traveling as a couple to enjoy a separate living room and extra privacy.
👉 Check Rates & Availability for Fraser Suites Edinburgh on Agoda
4. Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: A stylish newcomer on Victoria Street, blending 19th-century architecture with vibrant modern design and excellent on-site dining.
- Star Rating: 5-Star Luxury
- Location & Accessibility: 1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, right in the heart of Old Town near the castle.
- Price Range: £180 – £900+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh sits on the iconic Victoria Street—one of the most photographed streets in Scotland. Inside, original sandstone arches and restored period details meet plush red seating, contemporary art, and heated bathroom floors.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- Multiple Dining Outlets: Includes Commons Club, the street-level eatery Eve, and The Roof Deck for outdoor drinks with skyline views.
- Prime Victoria Street Location: Step straight out onto Diagon Alley-style curving cobblestones.
- Pet Friendly: A rare luxury option in Old Town that genuinely welcomes dogs.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Busy Street Traffic: Victoria Street gets significant foot traffic from tour groups during the daytime.
- Premium Rates: Drinks and room rates sit at the higher end of the local market.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Reserve a room with a Castle View early—these specific layouts are the most requested in the building.
👉 Book Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Agoda for Best Price Guarantees
Best Hotels in New Town Edinburgh
1. The Balmoral Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: Edinburgh’s grandest landmark hotel, offering world-class service, castle views, and its famous historic clock tower.
- Star Rating: 5-Star Luxury (Rocco Forte Hotels)
- Location & Accessibility: 1 Princes Street, sitting directly at the intersection of Princes Street and North Bridge above Waverley Station. Flat, immediate train access.
- Price Range: £320 – £1,600+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Opened in 1902 as a historic railway hotel, The Balmoral pairs Victorian grandeur with refined modern luxury. Rooms feature rich fabrics, marble bathrooms, and breathtaking views looking directly up at Old Town and Edinburgh Castle.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- Iconic Afternoon Tea: Served in the Palm Court, it remains one of the premier afternoon tea experiences in Scotland.
- Outstanding On-Site Amenities: Home to Brasserie Prince, Bar 1902, and an underground luxury spa with a swimming pool.
- Unbeatable Transit Access: Elevator access connects you straight down toward Waverley Station entrance platforms.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- High Price Tag: This is a top-tier luxury hotel, so rates reflect its prestige.
- Advance Bookings Needed: Palm Court tea and weekend stays fill up months in advance for peak season.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Book a Castle View Room on an upper floor for iconic photos of Edinburgh Castle right from your window.
👉 Book The Balmoral Edinburgh on Agoda for Best Price Guarantees
2. InterContinental Edinburgh The George
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: A grand 18th-century townhouse hotel right on George Street, ideal for classic New Town elegance and shopping access.
- Star Rating: 4-Star Luxury
- Location & Accessibility: 19-21 George Street, five minutes from Princes Street. Flat streets throughout New Town.
- Price Range: £140 – £850+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Built in 1775 during the original New Town boom, this hotel spans several grand Georgian townhouses. Interiors combine oak, marble, and leather with muted Scottish tones, creating a traditional yet polished stay.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- Prime George Street Address: You are steps away from New Town’s best shopping, brasseries, and cocktail lounges.
- The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen: Quality on-site restaurant focusing on seasonal Scottish produce.
- Flat Walkway: Excellent for guests looking to avoid the steep stone steps of Old Town.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Townhouse Layouts: Being a collection of merged historic townhouses, corridors can involve small turns and steps.
- Compact Standard Rooms: Entry-level categories can feel snug compared to modern builds.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Upgrade to a Superior or Premium room on higher floors for extra space and natural light.
👉 Check Rates & Availability for InterContinental The George on Agoda
3. Kimpton Charlotte Square Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: Interconnected Georgian townhouses on one of the city’s finest garden squares, featuring a glass courtyard and indoor spa.
- Star Rating: 5-Star Luxury Boutique
- Location & Accessibility: 28-38 Charlotte Square, flat ten-to-twelve-minute walk from Waverley Station.
- Price Range: £140 – £780+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Charlotte Square was designed by famous architect Robert Adam in the 1790s and represents peak Georgian architecture. Kimpton wraps that history in bold contemporary design, built around a glass-roofed central courtyard.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- The Garden Courtyard: A light-filled atrium serving breakfast, coffee, and evening drinks.
- Full Spa & Indoor Pool: Features a subterranean swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.
- Top On-Site Dining: Home to acclaimed dining venues BABA and Aizle.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Distance to Station: A slightly longer walk to Waverley Station compared to hotels on East Princes Street.
- Parking Logistics: On-site parking is limited, with most guests utilizing nearby public garages.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Request a room facing Charlotte Square to wake up to views over the private central garden.
👉 Book Kimpton Charlotte Square Edinburgh on Agoda for Best Price Guarantees
4. Gleneagles Townhouse Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: The urban outpost of the legendary Perthshire resort, featuring an Art Deco restaurant and a rooftop bar.
- Star Rating: 5-Star Luxury Boutique
- Location & Accessibility: 39 St Andrew Square, right beside the city tram stop on flat ground.
- Price Range: £350 – £1,500+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Housed in a former bank headquarters on St Andrew Square, Gleneagles Townhouse opened to massive acclaim. Expect gilded staircases, plush velvet seating, and a boutique spa located inside the original bank vault.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- The Spence Restaurant: One of the most beautiful dining rooms in the city, set beneath a massive glass dome.
- Lamplighter Rooftop: Exclusive rooftop lounge with drinks overlooking St Andrew Square and the Firth of Forth.
- Direct Tram Access: The St Andrew Square tram stop sits right outside, connecting directly to Edinburgh Airport.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Cozy Standard Rooms: “Nook” room categories are beautifully appointed but compact.
- High Demand: Restaurant and room reservations fill up weeks in advance.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Take advantage of the direct tram line right outside the door for a hassle-free journey to and from the airport.
👉 Check Rates & Availability for Gleneagles Townhouse Edinburgh on Agoda
5. Eden Locke Edinburgh
- Quick Verdict / Best Known For: A design-forward aparthotel on George Street with pastel interiors, in-room kitchens, and full lift access.
- Star Rating: 4-Star Aparthotel
- Location & Accessibility: 127 George Street, flat walking throughout New Town with elevator access to all floors.
- Price Range: £80 – £550+
The Atmosphere & Overview:
Eden Locke blends modern apartment-style living with hotel conveniences. Studio suites feature soft pastel tones, L-shaped sofas, kitchenettes, and a photogenic ground-floor coffee shop.
Why It’s Worth Booking (Pros & Highlights):
- Fully Equipped Kitchenettes: Features hob, microwave, fridge, and cookware to save on dining out.
- Full Lift Access: Unlike many historic stays, Eden Locke offers an elevator serving all guest floors.
- Great Value for Location: Outstanding price point for a George Street address.
What to Keep in Mind (Cons & Realities):
- Weekly Housekeeping: Daily maid service is optional rather than standard for short stays.
- Boutique Concept: No full-service formal restaurant on-site, though endless cafes sit outside.
Booking Affiliate Link:
💡 LetsBookStays Insider Tip: Grab a specialty coffee from the ground-floor lounge before exploring the boutique shops on George Street.
👉 Check Rates & Availability for Eden Locke Edinburgh on Agoda
So, Which Is Better: Old Town or New Town Edinburgh?
Honestly, there isn’t a wrong choice here.
- If this is your first trip and you want to walk out your door straight onto medieval cobblestones, book Old Town.
- If you prefer flat, wide streets, quieter nights, and upscale dining right outside, New Town wins.
Plenty of travelers even split their stay—spending a couple of nights in an Old Town close before moving to a New Town square to get the full experience. Given how close they sit to each other, that’s a great plan too.
👉 Compare All Old Town and New Town Hotels on Agoda
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Town or New Town better for first-time visitors to Edinburgh?
Old Town tends to suit first-timers best because you are within a 5-to-10-minute walk of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and major historic tours. However, New Town is only minutes away and works better if you prefer flat streets and quieter evenings.
Which is safer to stay in, Old Town or New Town Edinburgh?
Both districts are exceptionally safe for tourists. Old Town remains busier and louder late into the night around Cowgate and the Royal Mile, whereas New Town becomes peaceful once shops close.
How far is it to walk from Old Town to New Town Edinburgh?
It is a short walk of roughly 5 to 10 minutes across Waverley Bridge or the Mound, separated by Princes Street Gardens.
Are Old Town hotels more expensive than New Town hotels?
Not necessarily. Both areas feature everything from budget-friendly aparthotels to 5-star luxury stays. Pricing depends more on season and hotel category than the specific district.
Is Old Town Edinburgh accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues?
Old Town can be challenging due to steep hills, cobbled closes, and historic buildings with staircase steps. New Town’s flat pavements and modern lift setups make it much easier to navigate.
What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh for shopping?
New Town is the premier choice for shopping, specifically George Street, Princes Street, and the St James Quarter shopping complex. Old Town focuses more on independent boutiques, Scottish cashmere, and whisky shops.
Is it noisy staying in Old Town Edinburgh during the Fringe Festival?
Yes, Old Town experiences high noise levels during August due to street performers, pop-up venues, and crowds. If you want quiet sleep during August, book in New Town or request an internal high-floor room in Old Town.
Which area is better for exploring Edinburgh Castle on foot?
Old Town is better for Edinburgh Castle. Hotels along Lawnmarket, Victoria Street, or High Street put you within a 2-to-7-minute walk of the castle entrance.
Do Old Town and New Town Edinburgh have UNESCO World Heritage status?
Yes. Both Old Town and New Town together form a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for their unique contrast between medieval and Georgian urban planning.
What year was New Town Edinburgh built?
Construction began in 1767 following architect James Craig’s winning grid-plan design, expanding throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries.