Welcome to a new adventure in the beautiful city of Edinburgh, Scotland! If you're looking for an affordable and sociable accommodation option, then look no further than the hostels in this vibrant capital. Edinburgh boasts a wide range of budget-friendly lodgings that cater to all types of travelers, from solo adventurers to groups of friends seeking a memorable experience.
Hostels, also known as backpacker lodges or youth accommodations, are becoming increasingly popular among globetrotters who want to explore cities without breaking the bank. These establishments offer more than just a bed to sleep in; they provide an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from around the world and foster a sense of community. In Edinburgh specifically, you'll find hostels peppered throughout the city's historic streets and within close proximity to its iconic landmarks.
From the moment you step foot inside one of Edinburgh's hostels, you'll be greeted with warm smiles and friendly staff eager to make your stay unforgettable. The communal spaces within these accommodations serve as hubs for socializing and exchanging travel tales with fellow adventurers. Whether you fancy cooking up a storm in a shared kitchen or relaxing in cozy common areas after a long day exploring the cobblestone streets, there's always something happening in these buzzing hive-like environments.
In addition to their inviting atmosphere, hostels typically offer an array of amenities such as free Wi-Fi access, lockers for securing your belongings, laundry facilities for those on extended travels, and even organized activities or pub crawls that allow guests to immerse themselves fully into Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife scene.
So if you're ready for an authentic Scottish experience on a shoestring budget while making lifelong connections with fellow travelers along the way – let us guide you through some of the best hostels that Edinburgh has to offer!
Best Edinburgh Hostels
Argyle Backpackers
Located in Edinburgh, Argyle Backpackers is a budget-friendly hostel offering comfortable and non-smoking rooms. The property is conveniently situated within close proximity to popular attractions such as the University of Edinburgh, The Real Mary King's Close, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and Edinburgh Castle. Guests can enjoy amenities like free WiFi, a shared lounge and kitchen, as well as services including express check-in/check-out, tour desk assistance, and luggage storage. The hostel also provides bike hire for guests who wish to explore the city by cycling. With its convenient location and affordable rates, Argyle Backpackers is an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience the best of Edinburgh.
– Affordable rates
– Convenient location near popular attractions
– Free WiFi
– Shared kitchen facilities
– Bike hire available
Kick Ass Greyfriars
Kick Ass Greyfriars (18+) is a 4-star hostel located in the heart of Edinburgh, just 800 meters from Royal Mile. This hostel offers a shared lounge, terrace, and bar for guests to enjoy. The rooms feature shared bathrooms and bed linen, with free WiFi available throughout the property. Guests can also take advantage of the tour desk, billiards table, evening entertainment, and 24-hour front desk services. The daily breakfast includes continental, Full English/Irish or vegetarian options. With its central location, popular attractions such as the National Museum of Scotland, University of Edinburgh and The Real Mary King's Close are within easy reach. For those traveling by air, Edinburgh Airport is only 10 km away.
– Central location in the heart of Edinburgh
– Shared lounge and terrace for relaxation
– Bar offering drinks and socializing opportunities
– Daily breakfast with various options available
– Tour desk to assist with planning sightseeing activities
St Christopher's Edinburgh Original
Located directly across from Waverley railway station, St Christopher's Edinburgh Original is a budget-friendly hostel offering comfortable accommodation in the heart of Edinburgh. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, an electronic card entry system, lockers for secure storage, and insured luggage storage. The property is conveniently situated just a 5-minute walk from Princes Street and half a mile from the University of Edinburgh. The hostel features a fully refurbished bar and separate entertainment venue where guests can enjoy live sports coverage and music events. Each room at St Christopher's Edinburgh includes bed linen and is serviced daily. Some room types also offer en suite bathrooms, while shared bathroom facilities with hot showers are available to all guests. Towels can be provided for an additional fee and other amenities such as padlocks, international plug adaptors, hairdryers, and ironing facilities are available upon request. A continental breakfast is served daily, and there is a 24-hour reception desk to assist guests with any needs or inquiries. The on-site St Christopher’s kitchen offers delicious meals from 08:00 until 22:00 with all guests benefiting from a 25% discount on food.
– Central location opposite Waverley railway station
– Modern amenities including free Wi-Fi
– Fully refurbished bar with live entertainment
– En suite bathrooms available in select rooms
– Continental breakfast served daily
Other places to stay in Edinburgh
Family Friendly Hostels
Family Friendly Hostels offer a comfortable and safe environment for travelers with children. These hostels provide specially designed rooms or dorms that can accommodate families, often equipped with extra beds or cribs. They may also offer family-friendly amenities such as playrooms, board games, or outdoor spaces where children can safely play. Additionally, some family-friendly hostels organize activities or tours suitable for all ages, ensuring that both parents and children have an enjoyable and memorable stay. With a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, these hostels are an excellent choice for those looking to travel on a budget without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT – Edinburgh
Located on Rose Street North Lane, just a stone's throw away from Princes Street, CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT is a modern and stylish hostel housed in a charming red brick period building. The pod-style rooms are equipped with private shower rooms, and the bright communal areas provide a relaxing space to unwind. Conveniently situated within a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverly Railway Station, the hostel is also within easy reach of popular attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and the old town. With bunk beds, a shared kitchen, and a communal area, CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT offers an affordable and comfortable stay for travelers.
– Modern interiors within a charming period building
– Pod-style rooms with private shower rooms
– Convenient location near popular attractions
– Shared kitchen and communal area for socializing
Edinburgh Backpackers
Located conveniently in the heart of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Backpackers is a hostel that offers free WiFi and a shared lounge. It is close to various popular attractions such as The Real Mary King's Close, Edinburgh Waverley station, and Edinburgh Castle. Other points of interest like the National Museum of Scotland, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and the University of Edinburgh are also within easy reach. The property is non-smoking and situated just 300 meters from Royal Mile. For those traveling by air, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 10 km away from the hostel.
– Free WiFi available
– Convenient central location
– Shared lounge area
– Close to popular attractions
– Non-smoking property
West End Hotel
The West End Hotel is a charming B-listed Victorian townhouse located just a 15-minute walk from the West End of Princes Street in Edinburgh. It serves as the perfect base for guests who want to relax while being within easy reach of all that Scotland's capital has to offer. Whether you choose to stay in one of our small 6-bed dormitory rooms with en-suite facilities or opt for one of our larger dormitories with shared bathrooms, you won't be disappointed! Our recently refurbished dormitory rooms are modern and bright, offering comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. The property boasts original high ceilings and bay windows, adding a touch of character to your stay. Conveniently, buses run every 10 minutes from the hotel to the city center, making sightseeing easily accessible. Additionally, Edinburgh Haymarket Rail Station is just a short 5-minute walk away. For those traveling by car, public parking is available at the nearby NCP Car Park, which can be reached within a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
– Charming B-listed Victorian townhouse
– Recently refurbished modern and bright dormitory rooms
– Convenient access to city center via frequent bus service
– Short walking distance from Edinburgh Haymarket Rail Station
– Public parking available nearby at NCP Car Park
Other places to stay in Edinburgh
Cheap Hostels in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the vibrant Scottish capital, offers a wide range of cheap hostels for budget-conscious travelers. These affordable accommodations provide a comfortable and convenient base to explore all that this historic city has to offer. Situated in prime locations, these hostels are perfect for backpackers and solo adventurers looking to make the most of their trip without breaking the bank. With clean and cozy dormitories or private rooms on offer, visitors can enjoy basic yet functional facilities while enjoying the lively atmosphere that comes with staying in a hostel. Whether you're exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle, wandering down the Royal Mile, or immersing yourself in the city's rich culture and history, these cheap hostels ensure you can experience all Edinburgh has to offer without compromising on your budget.
St Christopher's Edinburgh Old Town
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, St Christopher's Edinburgh Old Town offers guests a comfortable stay with air-conditioned rooms and convenient amenities. The hostel provides free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar for guests to enjoy. With its central location, it is within walking distance to many popular sights such as the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Waverley station, and the University of Edinburgh. A continental breakfast is available daily to start your day off right. The property is non-smoking and also offers information at the reception desk to help guests navigate the area easily. Other nearby attractions include Royal Mile, The Real Mary King's Close, and Edinburgh Castle. For convenience, the nearest airport is Edinburgh Airport located 10 km away.
– Centrally located in Edinburgh
– Air-conditioned rooms
– Free WiFi
– On-site restaurant and bar
– Proximity to popular attractions
Kick Ass Grassmarket
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+) is a 4-star hostel offering a range of amenities for guests to enjoy. With its shared lounge, free WiFi, and bar, this hostel provides a comfortable and social atmosphere for travelers. The shared kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, while the 24-hour front desk ensures that assistance is available at any time. Conveniently situated near popular attractions such as EICC, Royal Mile, and National Museum of Scotland, Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+) also offers evening entertainment and a tour desk for guests to make the most of their stay. All guest rooms feature bed linen for added comfort. Additionally, a continental or Full English/Irish breakfast can be enjoyed at the property each morning. With Edinburgh Airport just 8 km away, this hostel provides easy access for those traveling by air.
– Convenient location in the heart of Edinburgh
– Shared lounge and bar
– Free WiFi
– Evening entertainment and tour desk
– Continental or Full English/Irish breakfast options
The Hostel
Located directly opposite Haymarket Train Station and just a short 10-minute stroll from Princes Street, The Hostel is housed in an original Victorian building that exudes funky charm. With its large windows and high ceilings, the dorm rooms offer a spacious and comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy modern bunk beds with fresh bedding, as well as free 24/7 WiFi in all public areas of the hostel. The bedrooms showcase original artworks by Jade Carrera while bathroom facilities are shared. For recreation, visitors can relax in the communal lounge complete with digital TV and a selection of board games or take advantage of the well-equipped modern kitchen with two ovens. An outdoor area featuring tables and chairs provides a pleasant space to unwind.
– Convenient location opposite Haymarket Train Station
– Funky Victorian building with unique charm
– Spacious dorm rooms with large windows & high ceilings
– Free 24/7 WiFi available in public areas
– Communal lounge with digital TV & board games
Pet-Friendly Hostels in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that welcomes travelers with pets, and pet-friendly hostels are a great option for those exploring the Scottish capital. These hostels provide a comfortable and affordable stay for both humans and their furry companions. With their convenient locations and friendly staff, pet-friendly hostels in Edinburgh offer a range of accommodations suitable for different budgets and preferences. Whether it's cozy private rooms or shared dorms, these hostels ensure that pets are also well taken care of during your stay. Exploring the city with your four-legged friend becomes hassle-free when you choose to stay at one of Edinburgh's pet-friendly hostels.
The Baxter Hostel
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, The Baxter Hostel offers boutique accommodation with a range of amenities for travelers. Guests can enjoy free WiFi access throughout their stay. The hostel features a 24-hour front desk and a shared self-catering kitchen, providing convenience and flexibility for guests. With its prime location, the property is just 200 meters from Edinburgh Waverley station, making it easily accessible for those arriving by train. Additionally, popular attractions such as the Omni Centre and Edinburgh Military Tattoo are within walking distance. The dormitories at The Baxter Hostel are equipped with bunk beds and secure lockers to ensure the safety of guests' belongings. Other facilities available include a shared lounge area and luggage storage. It's important to note that different policies apply for bookings of full dorms or more than six people. For those flying into the city, Glasgow Airport is approximately 78 km away from the hostel.
– Boutique hostel accommodation in central Edinburgh
– Free WiFi access throughout
– 24-hour front desk for guest assistance
– Shared self-catering kitchen available
– Secure lockers in dormitories for added convenience
Edinburgh Central Accommodation
Located just 0.5 miles from Princes Street and Edinburgh Rail Station, the 5-star Edinburgh Central Accommodation offers modern rooms with private shower rooms. Guests can enjoy a cooked or continental breakfast, lunch, and evening meal in the on-site restaurant, as well as snacks and drinks in the licensed café/bar until late. The hostel is within walking distance of popular attractions such as the historic Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat, and vibrant nightlife options are also nearby. With recently refurbished facilities, including an entrance, reception area, lounge, café/bar, and restaurant, this hostel provides a comfortable and welcoming space for guests.
Pros:
– Centrally located near shops and public transportation
– Modern rooms with private shower rooms
– On-site restaurant serving meals throughout the day
– Licensed café/bar offering snacks and drinks until late
– Recently refurbished facilities providing a comfortable atmosphere
High Street Hostel
Located in the heart of central Edinburgh, the High Street Hostel is a historic property dating back to 1564. Situated on a small side street just off the famous Royal Mile, this hostel offers single beds in shared dormitory rooms. Guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the hostel and each bed comes with a bedside safe and locker. The rooms have access to shared bathroom facilities and there is a self-catering kitchen available for guests' use. The hostel also provides a quiet internet lounge and a vibrant party lounge where guests can dine in. Complimentary tea and coffee are available as well. With its convenient location, Edinburgh Railway Station is only a 5-minute stroll away, while popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle are within walking distance after just 10 minutes.
– Free WiFi throughout the hostel
– Centrally located on a small side street off Royal Mile
– Bedside safe and locker provided for each bed
– Self-catering kitchen available for guest use
– Quiet internet lounge and lively party lounge for dining
Information about Hostels in Edinburgh
| 🏢 Number of Hostels in Edinburgh | 12 |
| 🥇 Average Review Score | 7.6/10 |
| 💰 High season average price | 816 |
| 💸 Low season average price | 204 |
