Looking for Airbnbs in Edinburgh’s Old Town? The Old Town is a popular area of Edinburgh enriched with culture. Right at its core is the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, which juts out of an extinct volcano. The Royal Mile contains many narrow alleyways and traditional buildings with pubs, restaurants, souvenir shops and museums occupying the majority of the street, which stretches from the castle to the Scottish Parliament. There are numerous Airbnbs to rent in Edinburgh, so let’s see where the best ones are in the Old Town.
Updated September 2026
Our Old Town Edinburgh Guides
- The ultimate guide to Edinburgh’s Old Town
- 50+ things to do in the Old Town
- Where to stay overview of hotels, hostels and apartments
- Old Town hotels for all budgets
- Old Town Edinburgh restaurants for every budget
- Pubs to enjoy a whisky or gin at
- Walking tours including history and Harry Potter
- Spooky ghost tours including Edinburgh’s Vaults
- Every Harry Potter location fans can’t miss
Airbnbs in Edinburgh Old Town
Why Stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town?
Edinburgh’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most atmospheric city centres in Europe. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions:
- Edinburgh Castle – the iconic fortress dominating the skyline
- The Royal Mile – historic street connecting the Castle to Holyrood Palace
- Victoria Street & Grassmarket – colourful streets with independent shops and pubs
- Greyfriars Kirkyard – famous graveyard and Harry Potter filming location
- The Scotch Whisky Experience – tastings and tours on the Royal Mile
- Camera Obscura – rooftop views and optical illusions
The area is well-served by restaurants, pubs, and cafes, with excellent bus connections to the New Town, Leith, and the airport. Many properties are in traditional tenement buildings with period features – exposed stone, original fireplaces, and high ceilings – giving you an authentic Edinburgh experience.
Quick Comparison: Best Old Town Airbnbs
| Property | Area | Type | From | Sleeps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment with Salisbury Crags Views | Holyrood | 1-bed apartment | £75/night | 2 |
| Arthur’s Seat View Apartment | Holyrood | 1-bed apartment | £51/night | 2 |
| Castle View Studio Flat | Old Town | Studio | £190/night | 3 |
| Greyfriars Bobby Apartment | Grassmarket | 1-bed apartment | £85/night | 2 |
| High Street Flat with Amazing Views | Royal Mile | Studio | £100/night | 2 |
| Holyrood Haven by Arthur’s Seat | Abbeyhill | House | £120/night | 6 |
| Luxury Flat by the Royal Mile with Terrace | Old Town | 3-bed apartment | £290/night | 6 |
| Porteous’ Studio | Castlehill | Studio | £200/night | 2 |
| Spacious Home on the Royal Mile | Holyrood | 2-bed Georgian flat | £187/night | 5 |
| The Edinburgh Wizarding Residence | Grassmarket | 1-bed themed apartment | £231/night | 4 |
Apartment with Salisbury Crags Views
Located in a quiet area in between Holyrood and Southside, this 1 bedroom apartment has a stunning view of the Salisbury Crags.
A short walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town, it is best suited for couples who are looking to stay in a more relaxing place away from the liveliness of the city centre.
Included is an adequately-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, TV, and washing facilities.
The host lives nearby and has been highly reviewed by previous guests, especially for excellent communication and cleanliness of the apartment.
- Location: Holyrood, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 75
- Host: Stewart
Arthur’s Seat View Apartment
Located in a quiet neighbourhood near Holyrood Park, home to the famous Arthur’s Seat, this 1 bedroom apartment is in a convenient location for visiting the Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Palace.
This first-floor accommodation is suitable for business travellers and couples.
Free on-street parking is available in addition to a TV, Wi-Fi, heating and washing facilities.
This Airbnb is perfect for a cheap getaway in Edinburgh and has received some great reviews from previous guests.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 51
- Host: Stephen
Castle View Studio Flat
This fourth-floor studio flat has an amazing view of Edinburgh Castle and is located in a quiet area, 10 mins away from Princes Street.
In addition to a queen room, there is a sofabed to accommodate small families.
Some amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, a TV, and Wi-Fi.
The host has received 5/5 stars for their communication on top of excellent reviews from previous guests.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 190
- Host: Robert & Vika
Greyfriars Bobby Apartment
A historic apartment in the centre of Old Town, you will have beautiful views of Greyfriars and the Museum of Scotland during your stay, all whilst remaining close to the Royal Mile and Grassmarket.
With 1 bedroom, this Airbnb would be ideal for couples looking for a weekend break to Edinburgh.
The bathroom and kitchen have been recently refurbished, and the living area has an open fireplace.
Further amenities include TV, washing facilities, Wi-Fi, and heating.
This Airbnb has maintained a 5/5 star rating for cleanliness and communication too.
An ideal Grassmarket Airbnb!
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 85
- Host: Axel
High Street Flat with Amazing Views
Spacious and well-lit, this Airbnb has stunning views of the city and includes a full kitchen, bathroom essentials, and a washing machine.
An ideal base for couples looking to explore Edinburgh, there are many restaurants and shops on the Royal Mile within walking distance of the flat.
This accommodation is accessed via a spiral staircase, which takes you to the fourth floor of the tenement building, directly above the historic Old Stamp Close.
Some other amenities are Wi-Fi, a TV, heating, and desk space for business travellers.
There is nothing but great reviews from previous guests, with the retention of historical features making the flat very unique and appealing.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, Studio, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 100
- Host: Jo
Holyrood Haven by Arthur’s Seat
This stunning house is in a quiet setting whilst remaining 10 mins away from Princes Street.
6 people can stay comfortably in this space, with a double bed and two double sofa beds available.
Encompassed in the grounds are a spacious garden and BBQ, driveway parking, and a gorgeous vinery which fills with natural light during the day.
Also included is an indoor fireplace, fully-equipped kitchen, heating, Wi-Fi, TV, washing facilities, and many more amenities to ensure you have an amazing stay!
Public transport links and convenience stores are nearby, with both Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat right on your doorstep.
At an amazing price, this Airbnb is certainly worthwhile booking for larger parties or a family weekend away to the city.
This Airbnb features in our list of quirky Airbnbs in Edinburgh.
- Location: Abbeyhill, Edinburgh
- Summary: 6 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 120
- Host: Katinka
Luxury Flat by the Royal Mile with Terrace
A beautiful 3 bedroom, newly renovated first-floor apartment situated beside the Royal Mile, this Airbnb is perfect for families and groups of friends who want to stay in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
With a shared terrace, cable TV, and Wi-Fi all included, you will have everything you need for a fun trip to the capital.
Some further amenities are heating, washing facilities, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
The host lives nearby and is happy to help you during your stay if required.
The perfect Royal Mile Airbnb, not quite on it which is actually better to save you from the large crowd noise!
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 290
- Host: Patricia
Porteous’ Studio
Located beside Edinburgh Castle, this Airbnb is ideal for a weekend away with your partner.
An award-winning apartment, this newly-renovated space is filled with bespoke furniture in the living room, a modern and well-equipped kitchen, heating, and Wi-Fi.
Breakfast and bathroom essentials are provided by the host, which explains why they have received such outstanding reviews from previous guests.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, Studio, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 200
- Host: Eilidh
Spacious Home on the Royal Mile in Central Old Town
This Airbnb near Edinburgh Castle is spacious enough to cater for a family of 5 or a group of friends.
The Georgian flat has retained its authentic look, with cornicing and a grand open fireplace in the living room.
Chessels Court is recognisable from Instagram due to the decorative ivy heart on the exterior being a popular backdrop for people’s photos.
It is situated in the perfect location for touring the city centre and shopping along the Royal Mile.
Washing facilities, bathroom/kitchen essentials, Wi-Fi, and heating are all included in the price, making it a must-stay during the festive period or the Fringe Festival!
The host offers a self-check-in service and is more than happy to provide any assistance during your stay.
- Location: Holyrood, Edinburgh
- Summary: 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 2 bathroom
- From: £ 187
- Host: Katie
The Edinburgh Wizarding Residence on Grassmarket
Yes! This is the Harry Potter Airbnb in Edinburgh my muggle friends.
With each room representing a different location from the films, this unique Airbnb is perfect for Harry Potter fans!
Found on the West Bow (which J.K. Rowling used as inspiration for the Harry Potter series), this 1 bedroom space is truly magical and can host up to 4 guests.
Amenities include heating, washing facilities, a fully-equipped kitchen, and Wi-Fi.
Overlooking the Grassmarket, everywhere can be easily accessed by walking, including the Royal Mile and Princes Street.
Also within walking distance are local shops and supermarkets in addition to bus links to Edinburgh Airport and surrounding train stations.
This is an extremely popular Airbnb so book quickly to ensure you don’t miss out on all the magic! Fan of Potter? Don’t miss our guide to all the Harry Potter locations in the city and magic food and drink you must try!
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 231
- Host: Michael
More Best Airbnbs in Edinburgh’s Old Town
Looking for even more options? These additional properties offer fantastic stays in and around the Old Town:
Castle View Luxury on Grassmarket
Located in a traditional 1800s stone tenement on the West Bow, this spectacular flat has been newly restored to provide a contemporary open-plan living area with picture-postcard castle views. The apartment features two double bedrooms (one can become two single beds), sleeping four in cosy luxury. You’ll be steps from Grassmarket and Victoria Street – the inspiration for Diagon Alley.
- Location: Grassmarket, Old Town
- Summary: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, castle view
- From: £180/night
Grassmarket Luxury Penthouse
This truly stunning penthouse apartment is built nearly 400 years ago in 1634, split over the top two floors of a historic building. Quiet and exclusive, it offers an up-close view of Edinburgh Castle from one of the oldest and most iconic areas of the city. The apartment combines period character with modern luxury – original beams, exposed stone walls, and contemporary furnishings.
- Location: Grassmarket, Old Town
- Summary: 2-4 guests, 2 floors, historic building (1634)
- From: £220/night
Central Edinburgh Luxury Flat With Castle View
This large, comfortable one-bedroom apartment features a wonderful lounge with three Georgian windows looking out towards Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens. Situated on the first floor of a period city centre building, it’s the perfect flat for exploring Edinburgh. The location puts you within walking distance of the Royal Mile, Princes Street shops, and the West End.
- Location: City Centre (bordering Old Town)
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, Georgian period features
- From: £150/night
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Airbnb in Edinburgh’s Old Town cost?
Prices vary depending on the property type and season. Budget studios start from around £50-£80 per night, while one-bedroom apartments with castle views typically cost £100-£200 per night. Larger properties for families or groups range from £180-£300+ per night. During the Fringe Festival (August) and Hogmanay (New Year), prices increase significantly and properties book out months in advance.
What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town?
The Royal Mile offers the most central location for sightseeing, while Grassmarket provides a more local atmosphere with excellent pubs and restaurants. Holyrood is quieter and closer to Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat. For a balance of convenience and authenticity, the streets between the Royal Mile and Victoria Street (such as Cockburn Street and the Cowgate) are popular choices.
Are Airbnbs in Edinburgh’s Old Town good for families?
Yes, many Old Town properties cater to families. Look for apartments with 2+ bedrooms or houses that can sleep 6+. The area is walkable with most attractions close by, though be aware that some tenement buildings have steep stairs without lifts. Properties near Holyrood Park offer green space for children to play.
Can I see Edinburgh Castle from my Airbnb?
Many Old Town Airbnbs offer castle views, particularly properties on the Grassmarket, West Bow, and higher floors of tenement buildings along the Royal Mile. Look for listings specifically mentioning “castle view” in the title or description. The Castle View Studio Flat and Castle View Luxury on Grassmarket in our list both guarantee this iconic outlook.
How do I get from Edinburgh Airport to the Old Town?
The tram runs from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre in approximately 35 minutes, with stops at Princes Street (heart of the Old Town). A single ticket costs around £7.50 for adults. Alternatively, the Airlink 100 bus takes about 30 minutes and costs £5.50 for a single. Taxis to the Old Town typically cost £25-£35 and take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
About the Author: Eilidh has lived in Scotland her entire life and loves visiting Edinburgh with her family, especially during the festive period and when the Fringe Festival is on. As a University student, she is looking to travel more and experience new cultures in the future.
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