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Scotland’s capital has no shortage of accommodation options! From historic hotels to budget-friendly hostels there is endless choice for first time visitors and repeat offenders. However, the city also has some special options for those booking a trip for a special occasion or an experiential stay. This guide is a little different from our other accommodation guides as it focuses on unique Airbnbs in Edinburgh. High season prices have been included. Why not match your Airbnb stay with one of these Airbnb Experiences?
Unique Edinburgh Airbnbs By Area
Quirky Old Town Airbnbs
1. Award-Winning Porteous’ Studio
Found in the heart of the city, just beside the castle, this Airbnb is perfect for people who love design and architecture.
Natural products have been used and the tones provide a calming environment, ideal for those returning from a jam-packed day of activities.
An award-winning renovation, this studio apartment is filled with tailor-made furniture which gives it a comfortable feel.
Amenities include heating, Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen.
This is one of the best Airbnb near Edinburgh Castle.
As seen in Condé Nast, Grand Designs Magazine and Times.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, Studio, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 200
- Host: Eilidh
2. The Edinburgh Wizarding Residence on Grassmarket
For all the Potterheads out there, this one of a kind Airbnb will make you think you’re in Diagon Alley.
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.
It overlooks the Grassmarket, which is in the centre of Edinburgh’s Old Town and city centre, making it easy to walk to 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.
Amenities include heating, washing facilities, a fully-equipped kitchen, and Wi-Fi.
The host has designed each room to resemble an area of the Wizarding World and even created a hidden storage space in the hallway, so do not hesitate to book this incredible Airbnb!
If you like Harry Potter don’t miss our locations guide. Will you book the Harry Potter Airbnb in Edinburgh? Tell us in the comments below.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh
- Summary: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 231
- Host: Michael
3. Tolbooth Apartment on The Royal Mile
This 2-bedroom Airbnb on The Royal Mile is tucked away in a courtyard which boasts of free parking.
The livingroom has large windows which overlook the courtyard and there is a dining area suitable for four people.
The kitchen has a fridge/freezer, oven and clothes washer for those staying a little longer than a weekend.
There is also a flat screen Smart TV with Freeview channels.
- Location: Old Town
- Summary: 4 people, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 130
- Host: Caroline
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.
Visiting with your partner? Here’s our guide to the most romantic things to do in the city.
- Location: Holyrood, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 75
- Host: Stewart
5. Regal Art-Filled Apartment with Secret Bedroom (Airbnb Plus)
This super stylish 1-bedroom apartment on The Royal Mile is perfect for couples who plan to dash in and out while exploring the city’s highlights.
Decor includes grand yet tasteful furniture, wall panelling and book shelves which take you through to the secret bedroom!
This is one of the very few Airbnb Plus in Edinburgh. David is a superhost with over 100 reviews.
- Location: The Royal Mile
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 145
- Host: David
6. Holyrood Haven by Arthur’s Seat
This stunning house – 10 mins away from the Palace of Holyrood and the Royal Mile – is in a tranquil setting, the perfect place to unwind.
With a double bed on the mezzanine and two double sofa beds downstairs, 6 people can stay comfortably in this space.
There is a spacious garden with a 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.
The conservatory shares space with 150 year old vines and a fig tree!
Transport links and convenience stores are nearby, with both Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat right on the doorstep.
At an amazing price, this Airbnb is certainly worthwhile booking for larger parties or a family weekend away to the city.
- Location: Abbeyhill, Edinburgh
- Summary: 6 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 120
- Host: Katinka
About Edinburgh’s Old Town
Visiting for the first time and wondering where to stay in Edinburgh? If you prefer to be part of the action set your sights on the historic centre, Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Old Town is where you will find cobbled streets, secret closes, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket pubs, Harry Potter locations and the famous Royal Mile. Many of the top Edinburgh tourist attractions can be found in the Old Town including:
- St Giles Cathedral
- Greyfriars Bobby statue and Greyfriars Kirk
- The very popular, Edinburgh Scotch Whisky Experience
- The Vennel
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh’s eerie, Underground Vaults
- The family-friendly Edinburgh Dungeons
- Holyrood Park, Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament
Find out more at our 50 things to do in Edinburgh’s Old Town guide.
Airbnbs in Dean Village and West End
7. Charming Apartment in Edinburgh’s Dean Village
This third-floor apartment is situated in the heart of Dean Village, a peaceful area located 10 minutes from Princes Street, with Stockbridge and the New Town close by.
The cosy space is found in a 19th-century courtyard, providing a unique charm for couples, solo travellers and business travellers who tend to be drawn to this location.
Equipped with a compact kitchen, washing facilities, heating, and Wi-Fi, this Airbnb is priced very reasonably and previous guests have reviewed the location and value for money extremely high.
Dean Village is one of the most photographed spots in Edinburgh. Visitors love its mill buildings and architecture.
- Location: West End, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 85
- Host: David
8. Bright Apartment
This stunning Airbnb is close to the Water of Leith and Murrayfield Stadium.
The apartment is located centrally and is just a short walk/bus ride to all Edinburgh’s major attractions in the city centre, making it the perfect getaway spot for couples or small families who wish to explore Edinburgh.
There is free parking outside and a wide range of amenities to make your stay relaxing and comfortable including washing facilities, Wi-Fi, a spacious kitchen, and heating.
Past guests have commented on the host’s excellent communication and the convenience of the location, especially if you bring a car.
- Location: West End, Edinburgh
- Summary: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 124
- Host: Steph
9. Quirky Cottage in Central Edinburgh
A rare find in Edinburgh, this 1 bedroom cottage (built in 1850) is ideal for couples looking for a city break.
The property has been refurbished to a high standard and has a modern feel inside, including a large living and dining area, spacious bedroom, and well-equipped kitchen.
Located only a 5-minute walk from Haymarket and a 15-minute walk from the city centre, this cute cottage is the perfect getaway for couples, solo explorers and business travellers.
Free private off-road parking is available and the cottage has underfloor heating throughout.
Other amenities include Wi-Fi, a TV, and washing facilities.
With local convenience stores and restaurants all within walking distance, it is no surprise that this quaint cottage has been highly reviewed by previous guests.
- Location: West End, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 196
- Host: Darius
About Edinburgh’s West End
The lively West End area attracts both office workers and shoppers, especially to the unique boutiques, stores and pubs along Stafford and William streets.
Fine dining and casual options are in abundance, with eloquent hotel restaurants and independent pizza and burger bars found in proximity.
Trains and trams operate from Haymarket Station, which is 10 mins from Princes Street in the New Town.
Edinburgh South Side Airbnbs
10. 16th Century Dovecot Cottage in Private Garden
A beautiful, secluded cottage with a bedroom in the tower, this private setting is perfect for a romantic weekend or staycation.
Found 5 mins away from lively areas of Bruntsfield and Morningside where there are supermarkets, shops, and plenty of places to eat, this Airbnb is in a very tranquil setting.
Underneath the bedroom mezzanine area, there is a fully-equipped, rustic kitchen with heated floors throughout and an authentic wood burner in the living room.
The large garden is well hidden by a path under a rose trellis, which is a great addition to have!
Further amenities include free parking, Wi-Fi, and TV.
This Airbnb is certainly very luxurious and slightly more expensive than some other listings, but great value for money considering the uniqueness of the cottage.
- Location: Morningside, Edinburgh
- Summary: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 250
- Host: Sarah
Portobello Airbnb
11. Edinburgh’s Seaside Gem
A stylishly decorated 1 bedroom flat found by the seaside in Portobello, this compact space can host between 2-4 people.
With an equipped kitchen/living room, a balcony overlooking the sea, and free parking, this Airbnb is a real hidden gem.
The apartment is located just off the High Street, which contains many shops, restaurants and bars.
You are just a few minutes walk from the beautiful sandy seafront and promenade, and a 20 min bus journey to the city centre.
Amenities include heating, Wi-Fi, TV, and washing facilities.
All of this for less than £100 per night is ideal for a cheap weekend away!
- Location: Portobello, Edinburgh
- Summary: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 70
- Host: Fiona
Special Airbnbs Elsewhere in Edinburgh
12. Edinburgh Waterfront Mill Cottage
Situated 20 minutes from the city centre with frequent buses into the West End, this historic ground floor apartment is in an idyllic location overlooking the harbour on the River Almond.
Along the promenade, you will find many walks along the coast and sandy beach in addition to the local pub and cafes.
The area is an open planned studio, comprising a kitchen area with a breakfast bar and a living area with a sofa, TV, fireplace, and magnificent view onto the waterfront, which is a unique selling point for visitors, especially for couples and solo travellers.
The kitchen is fully-equipped and has a washer/dryer, making it suitable for longer and self-catering stays.
Some other amenities are free parking, heating, and desk space for business travellers.
This Airbnb has received exceptional reviews, especially in terms of location and communication with the host.
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- Location: Cramond, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, Studio, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 74
- Host: John
13. Stunning Studio with Outdoor Hot Tub
Close to Edinburgh Airport and less than 5 miles away from the West End, this lovely bungalow is found in a more rural location whilst still being close to good public transport links.
The kitchen and living areas are well-equipped, with a smart TV, docking station, coffee machine, washing facilities, and other games/leisure activities on hand.
Included in the price are a luxurious outdoor hot tub, BBQ, and decking area, which is perfect for a couple’s retreat.
You will find many additional amenities here, such as underfloor heating in the bathroom, hot tub essentials, driveway parking, Wi-Fi, and an indoor fireplace.
The host has maintained a 5/5 star rating for cleanliness and communication, which shows how great this studio bungalow is!
- Location: Cramond Bridge, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, Studio, 1 bed, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 130
- Host: Allan
14. Peaceful Cabin In The Dell
A bespoke architect-designed cabin located 30 mins away from the city centre, this 1 bedroom space is truly one-of-a-kind with an outdoor hot tub included in the price.
Perfect for couples, this Airbnb is surrounded by many nature trails and places to eat and drink in the main village of Colinton.
There is a bedroom mezzanine area, indoor log burner, fully-equipped kitchen, and many more amenities provided by the host to ensure you have an enjoyable stay.
Wi-Fi, heating, and free parking are all included in the price, which is great value for money considering everything that the host provides.
Previous guests cannot recommend this cabin enough, with all reviews being 5/5 stars, highlighting just how amazing this Airbnb is!
If you choose this Airbnb be sure to check out the art mural at Colinton Tunnel!
- Location: Colinton, Edinburgh
- Summary: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bathroom
- From: £ 137
- Host: Anne-Marie
Final Words
There are some pretty special Airbnb apartments in Edinburgh for those who like a unique experience during their city breaks!
Did we miss your favourite out? Tell us in the comments below.
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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