The 15 best Airbnbs in Edinburgh close to Old Town and New Town

This stunning period-style apartment features stunning oak-panelled walls, more books than you could read in a lifetime and dozens of looming family portraits. Now, we know what you’re thinking: ’if I wanted to be stared at by a bunch of people in curly wigs I'd do a cartwheel through a courthouse‘ (no? Just us?).  Lofty paintings aside, I think we'd all agree that the apartment's epic classical interiors are matched only by its great location on the Royal Mile. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced city break for two.  
What’s it like to stay here? It's a modern, regal affair with a tonne of intrigue – the secret bed box will give you a run for your money.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

In the historic leafy neighbourhood of Stockbridge (often described as a village within the city) lies this family-friendly home that's sure to give you some interior design inspo. There's an underground garage, a huge pantry and island in the kitchen, BOSH appliances and a luxurious sofa in an effort to modernise the charmingly classic structure. 

What’s the budget range? An expensive pick, but a beautiful one too. 
What’s it like to stay here? Styled like a family home, this place keeps convenience and comforting vibes at the forefront. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 4. 

If something a little more moody and vintage is more your cup of tea, we highly recommend a few nights in this thoughtfully decorated one-bed in New Town. Every square inch of this place right down to the tartan teddy, is carefully curated, to give off a cosy, old-timey feel. We like it. Not to mention, you're no more than a 15-minute stroll to the high street.

What’s the budget range? A little pricier during the winter season, but oh so aesthetic. 
What’s it like to stay here? So retro, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

Set in a leafy residential area, this bright, spacious one-bed is the ideal place for a small family visiting Edinburgh for a couple of days. Not to mention, the property is owned by an artist, meaning you'll spot the odd original piece, along with some cool vintage furnishings to give the space a bit of zhuz. Some of our favourite bits include the mirror above the log-filled marble fireplace in the living room and the antique wardrobe in the bedroom - A very nice touch. The property also has a garden which is really great for sitting outdoors during springtime.

What’s the budget range? Pretty decent. 
What’s it like to stay here? A total suntrap.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 3.

So this one's located a little further away from the action than some of our other choices, but it's still just a 20-minute walk to the city centre. And what's a short stroll when you get to stay in a spectacular stone tower? Sure, it isn't the roomiest option but it's easily the most fairytale-esque. Perfect for a romantic getaway you won't soon forget. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced romantic weekend. 
What’s it like to stay here? The charming stone-walled interiors and surrounding cedar woods make for a cosy retreat.  
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

History buffs will be head over heels for this awesome apartment. Located right in the middle of the historic old town, you'll never get tired of looking up at the stunning castle above. It can sleep up to four people comfortably and comes with everything you'd expect. Plus, you've got all Edinburgh's main attractions within easy walking distance. 

What’s the budget range? Pretty affordable for such a central location.
What’s it like to stay here? It's the perfect base for exploring Old Town, especially for first-time visitors. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

The inside of this apartment has much to recommend it only we couldn’t tell you what because we were too busy staring out the window day and night at the castle. Ok, that’s not quite true. It’s a lovely one-bed top floor number designed to feel like a very chic city pad for two. The modern four-poster in the bedroom is a hit and the living room has been set up to maximalise space and light. But oh, hang on! What’s that outside! It’s an amazing castle! The views here are epic.

What’s the budget range? Reasonable (and reflective of those priceless views).
What’s it like to stay here? You’ll end up with a whole lot of pics taken from the windows.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

Located not far from the coast in Leith, this trendy spot makes for a refreshing change of pace from the plainly-decorated Airbnbs you're probably used to. Featuring, a flickering fire, industrial-style wooden dining table and stunning purple velvet sofa, this is one Airbnb that's worth writing home about. Plus, you can enjoy both Leith and the city centre from this great location. 

What’s the budget range? A decent price for a weekend stay. 
What’s it like to stay here? Modern, chic. The whole apartment is yours to enjoy, while you explore Leith, deemed to be one the world's coolest neighbourhoods, but you knew that already. 
Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

Bored of staying in beige bedrooms? This colourful flat is just what the doctor ordered. It's bursting with pretty prints, pastel bed frames and gorgeous furniture. And with its location on the oldest street in the New Town, you can take advantage of both the artisan shops and the nearby city centre. 

What’s the budget range? Not too shabby for a prime spot in New Town – close to cafes and restaurants. 
What’s it like to stay here? One of the best things about this luxury apartment is just how spacious it is. Decor-wise, it's pretty dapper too. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

When picking a place to stay around Edinburgh, you normally have to choose between being near the city centre or the coast – but not with this pad. Freshly decorated, this comfy-looking home is within walking distance of both Portobello Beach and the legendary Arthur's Seat. To get into town you can take a lovely 40-minute stroll or ride the bus for 10 minutes tops. 

What’s the budget range? Fairly cheap and seriously cosy. 
What’s it like to stay here? As homely as it gets. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

Yes, we know the sky can be a little grey in Edinburgh (even if you’re here for the festival in August). But you can still get a dose of yellow light thanks to this beautiful and cheerful flat on Lauriston Gardens (just up from The Meadows). It’s a typical “Old Town” home, which means you get to enjoy features like wooden floors, fireplaces and large windows – but this place has been thoroughly updated as well. Along with the glorious yellow walls of the living room are uplifting splashes of colour and pattern in every room. Our hunch is that the hosts almost certainly like the artworks of Frida Kahlo.

What’s the budget range? About average for this kind of location and size.
What’s it like to stay here? A home to warm you inside and out when you return to it each night.
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

Prefer to explore cities without sleeping in amongst them? Then this gorgeous guest house is the perfect pad for you. It's bright, airy and clean with a lovely pastel colour interior. There's a cosy deck from which you can watch the sunset, with a wood-burning stove on hand to keep you warm. When you want to venture into town, there are three buses that will take you there in just 20 minutes. 

What’s the budget range? Pretty cheap for a few nights in Edinburgh. 
What’s it like to stay here? A cosy spot in a quiet neighbourhood with an easy self-check-in process. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

We think this apartment overlooking the Meadows parkland would go perfect with your morning brew, don't you think? Set in a residential area, this gorgeous 19th-century build puts you within walking distance of Old Town and New Town where you'll find plenty to eat and drink. With such stylish interiors and lots of room to kick back in, it's hard to say no to this one. 

What’s the budget range? A very pocket-friendly stay for families or groups. 

What’s it like to stay here? Well-kitted out, the space is a mix of vintage and contemporary decor. Our favourite bit is all that green space on your doorstep. Lush. 

Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 6. 

If you like high ceilings and the whole museum aesthetic, this Albyn Place apartment will feel like a dream come true. Featuring a stunning Georgian-style drawing room with classic hardwood floors, complete with dark vintage leather seating, quirky contemporary artworks, and a toasty open fireplace, the apartment is a chic blend of old and new. Bright, airy and incredibly close to Princes Street. 

What’s the budget range? A spenny family getaway or a cheap and cheerful group stay (three nights minimum.)
What’s it like to stay here? Walking into any one of these rooms always feels like a grand entrance. 
Rooms: 3 beds, 3 baths. sleeps 6. 

Hidden in between a row of antique bookshops, your idyllic weekend awaits at this beautiful cottage with trailing ivy in Grassmarket. Inside you'll find whimsical floral wallpaper, and calming sage walls accompanied by antique furniture for a cosy cottage feel. Make the most of your mornings with breakfast up on the rooftop garden and enjoy the castle views.

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced weekend getaway for two.
What’s it like to stay here? You're in the best spot for tranquillity and views overlooking Edinburgh. 
Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.