Member rate
Sign in to a free ZenHotels account and this lower rate applies automatically at checkout.
See this rate on ZenHotels → Why we love it
The setting
The Balmoral Hotel is at the eastern end of Princes Street, on the border between the New Town and the Old Town. Trains bound for Waverley run from the foot of the Clock Tower, and buses travelling along Princes Street can take you to almost anywhere in the city in just a few minutes. With its sandstone facade, accents of tartan, and Edinburgh Dungeon looming just a few minutes’ walk to the south, this hotel exudes the elegant atmosphere so characteristic of Edinburgh. It’s ideal for guests who prefer not to rent a car but still want to enjoy proximity to the city centre.
What to expect
In addition to a spa, sauna, steam room, and massage rooms, this 5-star hotel also features a pool and a fitness centre for guests who wish to continue their daily workout routine. The hotel has a bar and a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a bathtub, a bathrobe, slippers, an in-room safe, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Guests arriving by car can use the parking lot.
Things to do nearby
The The Edinburgh Visit Scotland Information Centre in Edinburgh is right nearby and is very convenient for buying last-minute tickets or picking up city maps. Also nearby are the The Edinburgh Dungeon, where you can learn about the city’s dark history. In addition, the St. St James Quarter is just a few minutes’ walk away and is ideal for shopping and dining. The Collective Gallery on Calton Hill is also nearby, and the Melville Monument on St. St Andrew Square is just a short walk through the New Town.
Best for
It’s perfect for couples looking for a city getaway focused on wellness treatments, as well as for families seeking a central accommodation with a pool. It’s also an ideal choice for those who want to walk to the sights right after getting off the train, as well as for those who want to celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) right in the heart of the festive hustle and bustle.
How to get to the hotel
The trip to Edinburgh Airport takes about 25–30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the tram from the terminal to St. St Andrew Square; from there, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the hotel. Since Edinburgh Waverley Station is directly beneath the hotel, guests arriving by train from London, Glasgow, or the north will find themselves practically right at the hotel’s entrance as soon as they exit the station. Taxis are always available at both locations.
Choose your room
âś“ Your selectionClassic Double room
Room with a king-size bed, a TV, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities.
View room →
+ÂŁ50Executive Double room
Stylish room in soothing colours with a king-size bed and a large bath.
View room →
+ÂŁ140Deluxe Double room
Room with separate living and working areas, overlooking either the city or the courtyard.
View room →- Free Internet
- Parking
- Swimming pool
- Gym
- Sauna
Property, in pictures
Latest reviews from TripAdvisor
Easy 5 Stars!
We had a wonderful stay at The Balmoral and would absolutely return.The experience started beautifully with the valets, who were lovely and made arrival completely… Read full review on ZenHotels →
A Fantastic Luxury Hotel With a Few Unnecessary Annoyances
The Balmoral is an outstanding hotel and easily one of the best properties we have stayed at anywhere in the world. The location, service, and overall level of… Read full review on ZenHotels →
High quality with excellent customer experience.
The Balmoral Hotel is an elegant hotel with amazing staff. The rooms/ suite were impeccable. We felt comfortable because of the staff and the luxurious atmosphere… Read full review on ZenHotels →
Your 3 days, loosely planned
Suggestions, not orders. Tour ideas to mix and match for your trip.
Old Town wander and a Hogmanay warm-up
Once you’ve checked your luggage, head straight to the Royal Mile and explore the Old Town for the first time. Visit the Edinburgh Dungeon and enjoy a one-hour historical performance in the form of a theatrical show. Then return to the St. St James Quarter and, while shopping, have a coffee under the winding bronze canopy. Later in the afternoon, book a treatment at the hotel spa and visit the sauna or steam room before dinner. Bundle up and take a stroll down Princes Street to admire the Christmas lights.
Castle views and New Year's Eve
First, walk up the short hill to Edinburgh Castle to take in the view of the city, and then stroll at your own pace along “The Mile” until you reach Holyrood. Stop by a pub along the way to enjoy lunch. Take a short detour to the Collective Gallery on Calton Hill to admire contemporary art and enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city. Treat yourself to a little rest at the hotel before the Hogmanay street party begins. Since the venue is just a few metres from the hotel, you’ll want to save your energy for the midnight fireworks.
New Year's Day recovery
Take your time. If the weather is nice, consider taking a walk to St. St Andrew Square to see the Melville Monument, and then strolling through the streets of the New Town, built in the Georgian style. If you’d like to extend your visit, stop by the nearby Edinburgh Visit Scotland Information Centre for ideas on further adventures. Then pick up your luggage, head to Waverley Station, and board the train for your return trip.
Where you'll be
Edinburgh, UK
FAQ
What is the best month to visit Edinburgh, Scotland?
In May, June, and September, the days are generally long, the climate is mild, and tourist crowds are moderate—an ideal balance. In August, at the height of the festival season, it gets very crowded here, and prices go up. During this trip in late December, it’s certainly cold, the days are short, and frost is quite possible, but you can enjoy Hogmanay and the Christmas markets—a time when the city is filled with a special atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
Three days is just the right amount of time. On the first day, you should visit the Old Town and Edinburgh Dungeon; on the second day, the New Town, Calton Hill and the St. St James Quarter, where you can do some shopping; and on the third day, you can either visit museums or take a day trip to Leith or the coast. If you stay for two nights, as indicated in this reservation—especially since the hotel is on Princes Street—you’ll be able to quickly see the main sights.
Which is prettier, Glasgow or Edinburgh?
Edinburgh the has a castle, the Georgian New Town built in the Georgian style, and the volcanic hills that define the city’s skyline, many tourists consider Edinburgh to be the more beautiful of the two cities. Glasgow, on the other hand, attracts visitors with its distinctive Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, as well as a rich selection of live music, and is characterized by a rather rugged charm. Those looking for a typical, postcard-perfect Scottish landscape are better off choosing Edinburgh, but when it comes to enjoying the city’s vibrant culture, Glasgow is every bit as good as Edinburgh.
Is Edinburgh nicer than London?
The question of which city is better is a matter of taste, but Edinburgh is a compact city that’s easy to get around on foot, so even during a short stay here, you can take your time and enjoy its charm. The hills, the castle, and the sea are all right nearby. London, on the other hand, offers so many museums, restaurants, and entertainment options that it’s impossible to see them all in a short time. If you’re looking for a getaway in a compact, picturesque city, Edinburgh offers a more peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.
What are the top 5 things to do in Edinburgh?
Take a stroll along the Walk the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood, climb Calton Hill to enjoy the view, and explore the shops and cafés in St. St James Quarter. You can also experience the thrills of the Edinburgh Dungeons and explore the New Town around St. St Andrew Square and the Melville Monument. Back at the hotel, round out your eventful day at the spa, the pool, or the gym.
You might also love
The Midland 🎨 Art-deco stay on Morecambe Bay
Promenade landmark steps from the Stone Jetty and Platform ⛱️
Vila Gale Marina Resort Hotel Promocode
Save up to £20 ✨ Marina-side spa stay near the beach 🏖️
Bauer Palladio Hotel & Spa Promocode
Save up to ÂŁ50 🔥 Steps from San Giorgio Maggiore đźŽ
