Scottish Sunday

Best 5 Star Hotels in Historic Edinburgh

Edgar Loper
2 months ago

Are you in a hurry?

Here is a quick list of hotels in Edinburgh, selected based on their rating

Name of hotel Accommodation Rating Price, $
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

8.5 / 10

(827 Reviews)

 From 280$
The Scotsman Hotel

8.5 / 10

(3769 Reviews)

 From 284$
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

8.3 / 10

(2823 Reviews)

 From 273$
The Balmoral Hotel

9.4 / 10

(1917 Reviews)

 From 550$
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian Hotel

8.4 / 10

(1337 Reviews)

 From 278$

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and elegance, matched only by the luxury of its accommodations. For those seeking an opulent retreat amid the city's enchanting streets and storied structures, the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh offer more than just a place to stay; they provide an experience of grandeur and Scottish hospitality at its finest. These establishments stand as proud beacons of comfort and class, catering to every whim with impeccable service and attention to detail.

Within the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city, where ancient architecture meets contemporary charm, the selection of five-star hotels is as varied as Edinburgh itself. Whether you desire a hotel with timeless design or one steeped in modern luxury, these elite havens boast plush interiors, exquisite dining, and prime locations near Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. Each hotel’s unique character ensures that discerning travellers find a sanctuary that resonates with their personal taste, making each stay a memorable indulgence.

For the discerning traveller, recommendations are key to unlocking the true potential of this Scottish jewel. Insights into Edinburgh's five-star hotel scene reveal that beyond their opulent rooms and suites, these hotels often house award-winning spas, renowned restaurants, and offer bespoke experiences that immerse visitors in the local culture. Exploring these grand establishments is not merely about finding a place to rest; it is about discovering an integral part of Edinburgh's luxurious tapestry, where every stay promises to be an affair to remember.

Table of contents

The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection The Scotsman Hotel Historic Charm Meets Luxury: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh's Old Town Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa The Balmoral Hotel Contemporary Elegance: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh with Modern Flair Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian Hotel Prestonfield House Hotel Sumptuous Seclusion: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh Away from the City Buzz Prestonfield House Hotel The Balmoral Hotel Wellness and Indulgence: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh with Top Spas The Howard, An Ascend Hotel Collection Member Edinburgh Kimpton - Charlotte Square, An Ihg Hotel

View all photos

8.5
Very good
827 Reviews

The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 2 Greenside Place

From 280$

With a striking facade that merges historical architecture with modern glasswork, The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection, is a shining example of Edinburgh's contemporary luxury lodgings. From its roof-top garden offering panoramic city views to its sleek, minimalist-designed interiors, this hotel offers an urban oasis for those who appreciate modern aesthetics. The hotel's unique Whisky Snug pays homage to Scotland's national drink, while the rooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows to indulge guests in the cityscape. Part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, this hotel garners praise for its personalized service and commitment to providing guests a tailored 5 star hotels in Edinburgh experience.
Check Availability

Historic Charm Meets Luxury: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh's Old Town

The timeless allure of Edinburgh’s Old Town, with its cobbled streets and historic landmarks, is echoed in its luxury accommodations. Here, in the shadow of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a selection of 5 star hotels offer an experience that seamlessly blends antiquity with extravagance. The hotels in this section are not only gateways to the past but are also sanctuaries of modern comfort and opulence. Guests can enjoy the rich Scottish heritage while being enveloped in the finest of amenities and personalized service. Each hotel, while maintaining its historical integrity, has been adorned with all the trappings of a contemporary five-star experience, ensuring an unforgettable stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

View all photos

8.5
Very good
3769 Reviews

The Scotsman Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 20 North Bridge

From 284$

Once the home of the renowned Scotsman newspaper, The Scotsman Hotel retains its iconic status in Edinburgh as a bastion of luxury and history. It overlooks the Royal Mile, placing guests at the heartbeat of the Old Town. The hotel's accommodations are rich with Edwardian splendor, juxtaposed with the latest in-room technology for discerning travelers. Guests can enjoy the hotel's private cinema, indulge in the sumptuous spa facilities, or savor a fine dining experience at the Grand Café, which beautifully retains the building's original features. This hotel holds a special niche within the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh, offering an experience that is both rooted in history and emblematic of modern luxury.
Check Availability

View all photos

8.3
Very good
2823 Reviews

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 1 Festival Square

From 273$

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa is an urban wellness retreat in the very heart of Edinburgh. Overlooking the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the hotel's expansive spa, One Spa, is a multi-level sanctuary offering a range of treatments, a Thermal Suite, and a rooftop Hydropool. The guest rooms exude contemporary style with classic Scottish touches, each designed for supreme comfort and relaxation. With the added bonus of the fitness studio and the serene Escape at One for extended relaxation, this hotel is a standout among 5 star hotels in Edinburgh for those looking to unwind and recharge.
Check Availability

Contemporary Elegance: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh with Modern Flair

Amidst Edinburgh's historic skyline, a number of 5 star hotels stand out for their contemporary design and forward-thinking approach to luxury. These hotels not only boast prime locations and breathtaking views but also feature cutting-edge architecture and interiors crafted by leading designers. For the traveler looking for modern elegance and high-tech amenities, this section highlights the finest of Edinburgh's luxury hotels that reflect the city's vibrant, progressive spirit. From bespoke art collections to state-of-the-art wellness facilities, these establishments redefine what it means to stay at the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh.

View all photos

9.4
Excellent
1917 Reviews

The Balmoral Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 1 Princes Street

From 550$

The Balmoral Hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One, deserves a special spotlight for its exquisite fine dining experience. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Jeff Bland, the restaurant serves modern Scottish cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local produce. The hotel’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in the sophisticated menus and the outstanding wine selection, making it a dining destination for anyone seeking the best of the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh.
Check Availability

View all photos

8.4
Very good
1337 Reviews

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 Princes Street

From 278$

A landmark unto itself, The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian, boasts not just a prestigious address but also one of the city's most luxurious spa facilities, the Guerlain Spa. It is here that guests can indulge in personalized skincare and spa treatments created by the renowned Parisian beauty house, Guerlain. Alongside the spa, the hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and suites that offer memorable views of Edinburgh Castle. Fine dining at The Pompadour and innovative cocktails at Peacock Alley provide guests with sophisticated culinary experiences. This grand hotel encapsulates a perfect blend of Scottish heritage and graceful indulgence, making it a paragon among Edinburgh's 5 star hotels.
Check Availability

Sumptuous Seclusion: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh Away from the City Buzz

Edinburgh's urban charms are well-documented, but for those seeking a tranquil retreat, several 5 star hotels in Edinburgh offer an escape to seclusion and serenity. These hotels provide a peaceful haven from the city's energy while maintaining easy access to its attractions. Nestled in quieter neighborhoods or set in picturesque landscapes, these hotels specialize in creating a sense of privacy and exclusivity. With lush gardens, sweeping vistas, or tucked-away locations, this selection of hotels is for those who wish to unwind in the lap of luxury, undisturbed by the outside world.

View all photos

9.4
Excellent
249 Reviews

Prestonfield House Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 Priestfield Road

From 324$

Prestonfield House's Rhubarb restaurant serves as a culinary draw with its striking decor and sumptuous Scottish cuisine. Housed within a luxurious historic setting, Rhubarb offers a dining experience that's as theatrical as it is delicious, with locally sourced ingredients crafted into elegant dishes. It stands as a testament to the gastronomic ambitions found within Edinburgh's finest 5 star hotels, catering to guests who expect their palates to be as pampered as their comforts.
Check Availability

View all photos

9.4
Excellent
249 Reviews

Prestonfield House Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 Priestfield Road

From 324$

As a haven of tranquility, Prestonfield House sits on 20 acres of lush gardens and parkland, mere minutes from the city center. This 5 star hotel in Edinburgh is the epitome of opulence and privacy, often described as one of the most luxurious retreats in Scotland. From its rich silk wallpapers and antique-filled rooms to its peacocks roaming the grounds, Prestonfield House offers an experience drenched in extravagance. The hotel's restaurant, Rhubarb, serves exquisite cuisine within baroque-style dining rooms, adding to the regal ambiance. Offering sumptuous seclusion, Prestonfield House is the perfect getaway for those who seek the finest in tranquility and luxury.
Check Availability

Wellness and Indulgence: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh with Top Spas

For the traveller whose journey is not complete without a rejuvenating spa experience, Edinburgh presents a selection of 5 star hotels with world-class wellness facilities. These havens of relaxation combine the therapeutic traditions of Scotland with modern wellness practices, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling revitalized. From holistic treatments to thermal suites and state-of-the-art gyms, these hotels are dedicated to providing a sanctuary where health and luxury coexist. This section is reserved for those seeking a restorative escape, highlighting the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh that are as dedicated to their guests' wellbeing as they are to exquisite accommodations.

View all photos

9.4
Excellent
1917 Reviews

The Balmoral Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 1 Princes Street

From 550$

Standing proudly on Edinburgh's Princes Street, The Balmoral Hotel has become a city landmark in its own right. With its majestic clock tower that sets the time for all of Edinburgh, this hotel is a testament to Scottish grandeur. Its interior reflects a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with rooms and suites offering stunning views of the Old Town and the castle. The hotel's esteemed restaurant, number one, holds a Michelin star, enhancing the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh experience with an exceptional dining affair. Guests can also unwind in the exclusive Balmoral Spa or enjoy a bespoke Scottish whisky experience at the hotel's own SCOTCH bar, making every stay an episode of unrivaled luxury.
Check Availability

View all photos

9.2
Excellent
469 Reviews

The Howard, An Ascend Hotel Collection Member Edinburgh

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 34 Great King Street

From 273$

The Howard, located in the refined New Town district, epitomizes classic elegance and personalized service. This Georgian retreat is renowned for its discreet approach to luxury, making guests feel as if they're residing in a private townhouse. The hotel offers meticulously appointed rooms, drawing-room afternoon teas, and a butler service that attends to every need. The intimate dining experience at The Atholl is exclusively reserved for guests, featuring bespoke menus that showcase Scottish gastronomy. The Howard is a sanctuary of calm among Edinburgh's 5 star hotels, catering to those who favor sophistication and seclusion.
Check Availability

Gastronomic Delights: 5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh with Fine Dining

Gastronomy is an integral part of the Edinburgh experience, and some 5 star hotels in the city have become destinations for culinary excellence. These hotels not only provide luxurious accommodations but also entice with their innovative restaurants, often led by acclaimed chefs. Within their dining rooms, the art of cuisine flourishes, offering guests a journey through Scotland's finest produce and a flair for international flavors. This section is dedicated to the gourmands—those who appreciate a 5 star hotel in Edinburgh not just as a place to rest but also as a hub of culinary discovery.

View all photos

8.8
Excellent
2127 Reviews

Kimpton - Charlotte Square, An Ihg Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 38 Charlotte Square

From 232$

Located in the prestigious Charlotte Square, the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel encapsulates a modern take on Scottish luxury. The hotel’s garden-inspired atrium, a serene haven of greenery, contrasts with the bustling city vibe. The interior design reflects a playful mix of Edinburgh's character, with a contemporary twist that appeals to the chic traveler. From in-room spa services to the lively BABA restaurant, where Levantine flavors titillate the palate, the amenities are as unique as the setting. For those drawn to boutique-style sophistication, this hotel adds a vibrant edge to the 5 star hotels in Edinburgh landscape, tailored to offer a memorable and personalized stay.
Check Availability

View all photos

9.3
Excellent
131 Reviews

The Witchery By The Castle

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh

From 679$

Nestled in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery by the Castle offers an opulent retreat that transports guests back to a bygone era. This boutique hotel embodies the intrigue and romance of the Old Town, providing an intimate escape with just nine uniquely designed suites. Awash with gothic elegance, each suite boasts sumptuous furnishings, dramatic antiques, and lavish decor, making for a theatrical and immersive stay. Dining at The Witchery is an extravagant affair, with a restaurant recognized for its exceptional Scottish cuisine and atmospheric setting. It stands as a gleaming jewel among Edinburgh's 5 star hotels, where exclusivity and enchantment await all who enter its historic doors.
Check Availability

View all photos

8.8
Excellent
2127 Reviews

Kimpton - Charlotte Square, An Ihg Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
📍 38 Charlotte Square

From 232$

The Principal Edinburgh Charlotte Square offers an enviable combination of Georgian architectural elegance and contemporary design. For wellness enthusiasts, the hotel's spa, The Spa at Charlotte Square, is a tranquil retreat featuring a range of treatments, a pool, and sauna. The hotel's focus on comfort and opulence extends from the Garden—an inviting space to relax—through to the refined guest rooms adorned with tasteful furnishings that pay homage to the city's character. This hotel emerges as a retreat of peace and vitality for those wanting to indulge in self-care at a 5 star hotel in Edinburgh.
Check Availability

In the quest for tranquility and rejuvenation just beyond the hustle and bustle of the city, some guests may seek solace in serene surroundings without straying too far from Edinburgh's allure. In such cases, exploring hotels outside Edinburgh presents an inviting panorama of luxury set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, offering a complementary contrast to the urban elegance found within the city. These accommodations provide an idyllic retreat for those yearning for a peaceful respite, combining the opulence of five-star service with the rustic charm of the Scottish countryside, thereby enriching the travel experience with a blend of luxury and nature.

As wellness becomes an ever-important factor in choosing accommodations, Edinburgh does not disappoint with its array of sumptuous offerings. The city’s top-tier hotels go beyond mere comfort, incorporating wellness amenities that cater to the body and spirit. Particularly notable are the spa hotels near Edinburgh, where the pursuit of relaxation and rejuvenation is elevated to an art form. Guests can indulge in a variety of treatments and therapies designed to soothe and invigorate, all within the exquisite settings of these luxurious havens. This dedication to providing a sanctuary for wellness underscores Edinburgh’s five-star hotels' commitment to offering an unparalleled, holistic guest experience.

Location