Where to Stay in Edinburgh
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Edinburgh
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
New Town
Elegant Georgian architecture, high-end shopping, and a sophisticated urban atmosphere.
Our top picks in New Town
Stockbridge
Charming village feel with independent boutiques, artisan cafes, and a lovely riverside walk.
Our top picks in Stockbridge
Stylish boutique hotel with a popular gastropub and rooms overlooking Dean Gardens.
Book NowA luxury floating hotel permanently berthed in Leith, offering a unique experience.
Book NowElegant hotel around a private garden square, with a great spa and dining options.
Book Now
Old Town
Historic and atmospheric, this is the heart of medieval Edinburgh with its famous Royal Mile.
Our top picks in Old Town
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Stockbridge | Mid-range | Charming village feel with independent boutiques, artisan cafes, and a lovely riverside walk. | couplesfoodies | Very safe day and night; a peaceful resi... |
Leith | Mid-range | Bustling waterfront area with a maritime heritage, trendy restaurants, and a creative arts scene. | foodiesbudget | Generally safe, especially around the wa... |
Old Town | Luxury | Historic and atmospheric, this is the heart of medieval Edinburgh with its famous Royal Mile. | first-timersculture | Generally safe during the day, but can f... |
New Town | Luxury | Elegant Georgian architecture, high-end shopping, and a sophisticated urban atmosphere. | luxurycouples | Very safe day and night, with well-lit s... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Edinburgh
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Edinburgh, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Edinburgh
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Edinburgh
Stockbridge
Mid-rangeCharming village feel with independent boutiques, artisan cafes, and a lovely riverside walk.
- +Relaxed, local atmosphere
- +Excellent independent shops and eateries
- +Beautiful Water of Leith walkway
- -Further from main tourist attractions
- -Can be pricier for dining
🛡️ Very safe day and night; a peaceful residential area with good lighting.
Leith
Mid-rangeBustling waterfront area with a maritime heritage, trendy restaurants, and a creative arts scene.
- +Vibrant and diverse food scene
- +More affordable than central Edinburgh
- +Good transport links to the city center
- -Not within walking distance of major historic sites
- -Can feel a bit industrial in parts
🛡️ Generally safe, especially around the waterfront and main streets; exercise standard caution at night in less populated areas.
Old Town
LuxuryHistoric and atmospheric, this is the heart of medieval Edinburgh with its famous Royal Mile.
- +Incredible history and architecture
- +Central location for sightseeing
- +Abundant pubs and restaurants
- -Can be very crowded, especially in peak season
- -Steep streets and many stairs can be challenging
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but can feel crowded and a bit overwhelming at night with increased alcohol consumption; stick to well-lit main streets.
New Town
LuxuryElegant Georgian architecture, high-end shopping, and a sophisticated urban atmosphere.
- +Beautiful neoclassical architecture
- +Excellent shopping and dining options
- +Easier to navigate than Old Town
- -Can feel less historic than Old Town
- -Can be more expensive
🛡️ Very safe day and night, with well-lit streets and a generally upscale atmosphere.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
GBP 150/day
Hidden Gems in Edinburgh
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Dean Village
FREEWander through this picturesque village on the Water of Leith, a tranquil oasis that feels a world away from the city bustle. Its charming stone buildings and riverside paths offer a peaceful escape and beautiful photo opportunities.
Jupiter Artland
Discover contemporary art set within beautiful woodland and gardens. This unique outdoor sculpture park invites you to explore thought-provoking installations amidst nature.
Stockbridge Market
FREEExperience the vibrant local atmosphere at this Sunday market, offering a fantastic array of artisan foods, crafts, and vintage treasures. It's the perfect place to sample local produce and mingle with residents.
Safety in Edinburgh
SafeSolo Female Travel
Edinburgh is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas late at night, and keep valuables secure.
At Night
Most areas are safe at night, but stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially in the Old Town where pubs can get rowdy. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist spots.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced 'tours' or 'guides' approaching you in the Old Town.
- 2Distraction thefts (pickpocketing) in busy areas like the Royal Mile.
- 3Fake charity collectors.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Edinburgh
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Edinburgh Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Edinburgh on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Edinburgh Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Edinburgh with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Edinburgh's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Edinburgh: Scenic Excursion
Escape Edinburgh for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Edinburgh Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Edinburgh's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Edinburgh
Families in Edinburgh: FAQ
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