As far as historic cities go, Endiburgh could charm the socks off of anyone. It's an absolute treasure trove for Gothic architecture, scenic strolls, and a slew of traditional watering holes and distilleries. With all of its enchantment and intrigue including hotly anticipated events like Christmas markets and Edinburgh Fringe, it can be hard to come by a hotel that doesn't break the bank. Your best bet to avoid a horrendous price hike in hotels during peak travel season is to kip on bunk for a fraction of the price. Trust us, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how cosy our lineup of Ediburgh's best hostels actually is.
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Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
We love Haystack Hostel for its industrial-chic vibes. Like if you like it cosy, this place is seriously cosy, but cheap, which is the aim of the game here. The interiors are bright with lots of Scandi vibes so you won't feel like you're on a low-budget stay. For the early birds, we also hear this one's pretty quiet and clean too!
Best for: cleanliness
Set right bang in the centre, Edinburgh Backpackers is another cosy one with modest decor, and a variety of mixed dorms. Unlike some of the other hostels on this list offering events, this one keeps it fairly simple with a kitchen, share bathroom and a bedroom with lockers for safekeeping - great if you're a little more introverted or are only interested in somewhere to sleep.
Best for: simplicity
As far as hostels go, this one's pretty boujee. Okay, maybe that's a wee stretch, but the decor, showers (decent water pressure btw) and the common area definitely get our upvote. While we dig the cosy urban feel of this place, the real piece de resistance is the price. It's pretty cheap when you book ahead. And if you prefer your own room
Best for: cosy living
Very popular with the young folks, we'd class Kick Ass as your typical hostel with dorms with up to 12 beds (yep, think sardines), a lively lounge, a handy, shared kitchen, relatively cheap beer, and events throughout the evening. You'll be close to many of the main sites like the Royal Mile and the National Museum meaning you can cut down on commute time if you're only here a short while. Things to note: Kickass is 18+ only.
Best for: students
Time Out tip: Rooms go for as little as £47 depending on when you book, so get in there quick.
If you like a lively atmosphere, these lot are a real social bunch. You'll find events on pretty much every night at the High Street Hostel. And as its name suggests, you're in a prime spot for walking and exploring the city at a leisurely pace. In the bedroom department? Well, it's pretty hunky dory and while, snug the bunks do the trick.
Best for: a friendly atmosphere
Time Out tip: In case you need bike storage, you'll find that here too.
Although prices can hike quite a bit during peak travel seasons, rooms here are pretty decent kip per night (with prices starting as low as £60). As for the space? All we can say is this is one the if not the swankiest hostel we've found. The interior design is absolute goals, especially the farmhouse-style kitchen and the tartan walls in the corridor - a classic touch but they didn't overdo it. As dorms go, Baxter's are pretty roomy with relaxing cool tones. You know the drill by now, book way ahead of time for the best prices to avoid the short straw.
Best for: interior design
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