Top 10 Cheap Places to Stay in Edinburgh

Friend, imagine, as soon as you reach Edinburgh, you are standing with your bag and worrying about the budget- now you need a good sleep too, right? So, look, these ten great budget-friendly places are your rescue team. Be it the bustling hostels of the Royal Mile or the quiet guesthouse lanes of the New Town, everywhere you will find clean rooms, free Wi-Fi or breakfast facilities, and extremely friendly staff. 

Be it the self-cooking studios near Haymarket or the economical hotel next to the tram station- the location is great, and the price is also low! Forget about the pocket and enjoy the streets, cafe-bars, and hilltop views of Edinburgh to the fullest.

Best Cheap Places to Stay in Edinburgh for Savvy Travelers

Imagine you have arrived in Edinburgh, bags hanging on your shoulders and budget worries on your mind – but sleep is also important, isn’t it? Then these ten great budget-friendly places will be of use to you. Be it the lively hostels on the Royal Mile or the quiet guesthouses in the New Town, everywhere you will find clean rooms, free Wi-Fi or breakfast schemes, and helpful staff. Whether you want a self-cooking studio near Haymarket or a budget hotel near the tram, every option has a good location and low low-cost. Meaning, forget about your pocket and enjoy the streets, cafes-bars and beautiful views of Edinburgh.

• Castle Rock Hostel

• Why stay here? Perched on the Royal Mile beneath Edinburgh Castle, this hostel blends history with modern comforts—free breakfast, friendly common spaces, and nightly socials.
  
• Price tip: Dorm beds from around £20/night; private doubles under £60.

• Kick Ass Greyfriars Hostel

• Why stay here? In the shadow of Greyfriars Kirkyard, it offers clean rooms, hearty breakfasts, and a laid-back lounge. The staff share insider tips on the best pub crawls.
  
• Price tip: Bunk beds from £18; private rooms £50–£70.

• Staycity Aparthotels West End

• Why stay here? If you prefer self-catering, these modern studios include kitchenettes and good Wi-Fi. It’s a short walk to Haymarket Station and tram links.
  
• Price tip: Studios start around £55/night, especially mid-week.

• Leith Depot Hostel

• Why stay here? Up in the lively Leith district, this former postal depot is now a bright, airy hostel with weekly events, bike rentals, and a communal kitchen.
  
• Price tip: Dorm beds from £16; private rooms under £65.

• Travelodge Edinburgh Central

• Why stay here? Consistent quality, basic en-suite rooms, and easy booking. It’s on Princes Street, steps from shops and tram stops.
  
• Price tip: Rooms from £40 on an advance purchase deal

• The Baxter Hostel

• Why stay here? A boutique hostel in the New Town, it features designer décor, a cozy lounge bar, and complimentary breakfast. It’s quieter than the Old Town buzz.
  
• Price tip: Dorms from £22; twins from £60.

• Safestay Edinburgh Royal Mile

• Why stay here? Housed in a grand Georgian building, this hostel offers free walking tours, cinema nights, and an on-site café. Prime location for festival-goers.
  
• Price tip: Bunk beds from £18; private rooms under £70.

• Ibis Budget Edinburgh Park

• Why stay here? Best for business-style stays: tiny rooms, soundproofing, and a tram stop outside that whisks you into the city center in 15 minutes.
  
• Price tip: Doubles from £45; single rooms around £35.

• Budget Backpackers

• Why stay here? Just behind Waverley Station, it’s basic but spotless—shared kitchens, free tea/coffee, and a small courtyard for chilly evenings.
  
• Price tip: Dorms from £15; private rooms from £50.

• St Christopher’s Edinburgh

• Why stay here? Part of Europe’s largest hostel chain, it offers lively bars, live music events, and a 24-hour reception. Located near the Grassmarket.
  

Price tip: Dorms from £17; privates from £55.

Conclusion

Finding cheap places to stay in Edinburgh isn’t about sacrificing quality—it’s about knowing where to look. From historic hostels with a social vibe to budget hotel chains offering dependable rooms, this city delivers options for every kind of traveler. Book early, keep an eye on mid-week rates, and you’ll have more left over for haggis, whisky tasting, and castle tours!

FAQs About The Top 10 Cheap Places to Stay in Edinburgh