Planning a trip to the magical city that is Edinburgh, Scotland? I’ve pulled together the ultimate list of Airbnb Edinburgh rentals to make finding your perfect pad super simple. Castle views, rustic stone cottages, hip inner-city zip codes, and riverside retreats. I’ve chosen the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh to suit any travel style or budget!
Edinburgh castle. Kilts. Deep-fried Mars Bars. Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Whiskey. Stunning architecture. Greyfriars Bobby. Bagpipes. Harry Potter. Hogmanay. The Edinburgh Tattoo. Haggis. The Royal Mile. Scottish hospitality. Ghosts. Arthur’s Seat. Princes Street. Mary King’s Close.
I’ve been lucky enough to spend time in the fascinating Scottish city of Edinburgh, and I can’t speak highly enough of it and all that it offers. Visiting Edinburgh is like stepping into a magical wonderland, with Edinburgh Castle towering over the city from its rocky central perch.
You walk along the same ancient stone laneways so many famous names throughout history walked, you sink pints in centuries-old pubs with incredible stories behind them, you talk endlessly with friendly locals who love a chat. Bagpipers in kilts perform on street corners, while crowds gather to watch. At every turn there’s a one-off experience to have, something to learn, and beauty to marvel at!
Keep reading to discover the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh!
Best Airbnbs in Edinburgh: Top Vacation Rentals in 2022
Ready and raring to kickstart your Edinburgh adventure? My “Quick Top 5” below is the ultimate shortlist of the best Edinburgh Airbnb rentals. These stays are chosen to cover a range of travel styles and budgets. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, keep reading and I’m positive that you will!
The Overall Best Airbnb in Edinburgh – Classical Apartment on the Royal Mile
The Best Luxury Airbnb in Edinburgh – Stunning with Breathtaking Views
The Best Cheap Airbnb in Edinburgh – Carlotta Guest House in Peaceful South Edinburgh
The Best Unique Airbnb Edinburgh – Magical Harry Potter-inspired Flat near Edinburgh Castle
The Best Romantic Edinburgh Airbnb For Couples – Rustic Urban Retreat in City View Flat
Once you’ve booked your Edinburgh Airbnb, check out my blog Music Festivals in Scotland! Scotland and Edinburgh music festivals are amazing, so you should definitely plan your trip around some of them!
Top 15 Airbnbs in Edinburgh, Scotland
Visiting Edinburgh is like being wrapped up in a big warm hug, regardless of whether you visit in the warmer months or when the snow is falling and the temperatures plummet.
If I’ve sold you on a trip to Edinburgh – and I hope I have – your accommodation options are some of the best I’ve seen. There are so many incredible Edinburgh Airbnbs it was hard to pick my favorites, so I chose a shortlist based on a range of travel styles, budgets and locations.
Wake up with a view of the castle and I promise you, every day you spend in Edinburgh will be memorable and magical. If you’re looking for more unique stays, read my guide on Castle Hotels in Scotland for a fairytale getaway!
1) Classical Apartment on the Royal Mile
Location: The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $120+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/860170
I knew an Airbnb right on the famous “Royal Mile” was going to be my pick for the overall best amongst great rentals in Edinburgh, and I was right. This classically elegant studio apartment is smack bang on the famous road that leads to Edinburgh Castle, and is amazingly decorated with classic art and plush furnishings.
You’ll feel like royalty on the Royal Mile in this classical apartment. And what’s more, you’ll literally be in the centre of this incredible city, and surrounded by the best bars, cafes, restaurants and shops. Oh – and steps from the castle! It’s an excellent option for everyone, especially if you’re looking for an Edinburgh Castle Airbnb experience!
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Probably the most unique Airbnb Edinburgh rental! Credit: Airbnb
2) Stunning with Breathtaking Views!
Location: Trinity
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $500+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6513048
This city oozes classic beauty at every turn, and it’s the perfect place to treat yourself in a stay in one of the best luxury Airbnbs in Edinburgh – and this stately four-bedroom home is my favorite! The large family home is equipped with a hot tub, spacious interiors and surrounded by lush landscapes gardens.
It is located in the upmarket Edinburgh suburb of Trinity, which is a short stroll to Edinburgh Botanic Gardens and the hip bars and restaurants of Stockbridge. It’s only a short drive into Edinburgh Old Town – just jump on at the nearby bus stop, or catch a cab and you’ll be there in 15 minutes. Walking to Princes Street only takes 30-40 minutes.
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One of the coolest luxury Airbnbs in Edinburgh! Credit: Airbnb
3) Carlotta Guest House in Peaceful South Edinburgh
Location: Moredun
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $62+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/22843748
A trip around the U.K isn’t cheap, but there are many super affordable Airbnbs that will help you save a few pounds on your travels – and this two bedroom apartment is one of them! An Airbnb Plus listing, the private one-bedroom suite is tasteful and simple, with pastel interiors, a deck and a wood-burning stove for those chilly Scottish days and nights.
The property is located in a safe estate, just 4 miles from Edinburgh city centre. There’s lots of pubs and restaurants right nearby, or you can jump on a bus or in a cab and head into the Old Town for some memorable adventures. This classical apartment has one of the highest, near-perfect ratings in the entire city, with over 280 guests singing its praises.
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Affordable Airbnb in Edinburgh | Credit: Airbnb
4) Magical Harry Potter Inspired Flat near Edinburgh Castle
Location: West Bow, Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $65+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/27430688
Edinburgh is a wonderland for Harry Potter fans and the city where J.K Rowling was inspired to start writing the adventures of Harry and friends. So, it should come as no surprise that this Harry Potter Airbnb in Edinburgh is my choice for the best unique apartment.
The verified one-bedroom home has amazing interiors inspired by the book series, including a Hogwarts living room, a Hagrid’s Hut bedroom and Gringott Bank bathroom. It’s truly amazing, and is located right in the heart of Edinburgh Old Town, just steps from the centuries old pubs of the Grassmarket! Don’t miss the café where J.K wrote the first book – it’s just around the corner!
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Such an incredible and unique airbnb edinburgh scotland
5) Rustic Urban Retreat in City View Flat
Location: Leith
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $80+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/85620
With views to the Edinburgh natural attraction of Arthur’s Seat, this beautiful one bedroom flat is eclectic, colorful and welcoming. It’s perfect for a couples retreat!
Located in the gentrified inner-city neighborhood of Leith, you’ll be just a short drive (or easy bus trip) from Edinburgh Old Town, and surrounded by cool new bars, cafes, shops and galleries. This area has been transformed into a super popular place to be and you’re guaranteed to love it! For a bit of trivia, Leith is also where most of Trainspotting was set and filmed.
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Such a cute and fun Edinburgh airbnb!
6) Castle Apartment I, Grassmarket
Location: The Grassmarket, Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $93+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13315322
It doesn’t get much better than this incredible one-bedroom apartment with castle view. One of the most popular Airbnbs in Edinburgh, this stylish and cozy flat is equipped with an indoor fireplace to match the magical vibe this city offers.
You can literally walk to every major attraction in Edinburgh from here, as well as to the central railway station which offers connections to all major U.K mainland cities. It’s easily one of the better Airbnb Edinburgh City Centre listings available, but gets booked up quite regularly so make sure you plan ahead and get your stay reserved ASAP!
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The best airbnb in Edinburgh for castle views!
7) Stay in our Stylish 5* Edinburgh Boutique Retreat
Location: Bruntsfield
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $140+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10310975
Tucked away in a quiet crescent in a friendly and quiet neighborhood, you’re sure to enjoy this spacious, immaculate and stylish Airbnb Plus home, with Victorian fireplaces offset by Scandinavian simplicity.
The Bruntsfield neighborhood is just a short walk into Edinburgh Old Town and the city’s endless attractions and sights. Or stick around the local area and enjoy the trendy bars, cafes and restaurants on your doorstep!
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Loving the design of this edinburgh airbnb!
8) Superb apartment in historic centre
Location: Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $44+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/17565641
Comfortable, simple and equipped with all you need for a stellar stay, this 1 bed Edinburgh apartment dates back over 150 years but is now a modern gem in the heart of the city.
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket and Princes Street are all just a few minutes walk away, and you’ll have a plethora of dining, shopping and sightseeing opportunities on your doorstep. And if you happen to be visiting Edinburgh for its annual New Year’s “Hogmanay” festivities, you’ll be right in the heart of the action.
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Can’t beat this affordable and cool airbnb edinburgh rental!
9) Stunning Victorian city flat with castle view
Location: Tollcross
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $147+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/19669612
The perfect blend of Victorian architecture and design and modern influence, this two bedroom flat boasts an amazing view of Edinburgh Castle. It has plush furniture, luxury king size beds and an indoor fireplace, and is walking distance to every possible bucket list item you may have for your trip to Edinburgh.
It’s less than a mile to the Castle and the Royal Mile, Princes Street and Holyrood Palace, and the major public transport hubs of the city are also close by.
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10) Enchanting 16th Century Dovecot Cottage in Private Garden
Location: Greenhill
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10858847
Surrounded by lush green gardens, this stunning 16th century stone cottage is a tranquil Edinburgh hideaway that provides a glimpse into the fascinating past of this ancient city. Its rustic, stylish interiors include one bedroom (in its own tower!), one-off wood countertops, heated floors and fireplaces, and is just a beautiful, unmissable experience.
It even has a serene outdoor terrace. This charming home is just 20 minutes walk into Edinburgh Old Town, but you’ll feel like you’re a million miles from the city. The nearby neighborhoods are full of cool cafes, restaurants and bars.
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11) Modern Central Flat in West Montgomery Place
Location: Abbeyhill
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $60+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5984473
Verified by Airbnb plus, this top-rated one bedroom flat has over 260 guests (and counting!) raving about their experience staying here. The crisp, clean and contemporary abode is located in the neighborhood of Abbeyhill, which is just 15-20 minutes walk to Edinburgh’s central attractions and just 10 minutes on foot to lookout point Carlton Hill.
There are a number of great cafes and restaurants in close proximity, as well as a bus stop that will take you right into Edinburgh Old Town in minutes.
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12) Boutique West End Georgian Flat
Location: West End, Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $82+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13945425
One of Edinburgh’s many classically stylish Georgian flats, this one-bedroom Airbnb Edinburgh Old Town abode is plush and opulent, with its own private garden and terrace. Edinburgh’s West End is one of the city’s most buzzing areas, with centuries-old buildings that are immaculately preserved.
Walk to the theatres of the West End in minutes, or to the Old Town’s endless number of visitor attractions and incredible sights. This area is great to stay in if you’re visiting for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which is held right on its doorstep.
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13) Curl Up in an Armchair at an Original Victorian Mews House
Location: The Dean Village
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $199+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/19395946
Another top rated Edinburgh Airbnb offering, this two-bedroom house will add a touch of class to your trip. It features a trendy stainless steel bathtub, light-filled rooms and well-chosen retro decor.
The Dean Village is a fantastic central borough near Edinburgh city centre. It’s in close proximity to the hip and happening West End, Edinburgh Old Town and its many sightseeing opportunities. A trip into town takes just 10 minutes by car, or get your daily steps in and set off on the 30 minute walk.
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14) Georgian Townhouse Apartment in Picturesque New Town
Location: Edinburgh New Town
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $399+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/8857407
Edinburgh New Town boasts elegant, larger streets and a more relaxed pace than the visitor hotspot of the Old Town, and is a great central alternative for a stay in this beautiful city. This verified one bedroom Georgian townhouse apartment is upmarket, luxurious and amazing, with antique furnishings throughout that really set the mood for a visit to this ancient city.
Locally, there’s lots of chic cocktail bars, upmarket shops and lush city gardens, and you can reach the Old Town attractions in just 15 minutes by foot!
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15) Wee Witchery at Edinburgh Castle
Location: The Grassmarket, Edinburgh Old Town
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $239+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21000082
WOAH! This one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city takes Airbnb Edinburgh, Scotland to a whole other level. And it comes as no surprise it has a perfect 5 star guest rating. With sumptuous, luxurious interiors, you’ll feel just like the royalty who once resided in the nearby Edinburgh Castle.
The Grassmarket, Market Square, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street are all a short stroll away – that’s if you can tear yourself away from this lavish abode.
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Edinburgh Tours & Experiences You Can’t Miss
Scotland is a magical country, and the city of Edinburgh arguably has the most on offer for visitors. With its castle and fascinating underground city – not to mention its incredible surrounding natural landscapes – choosing the best Edinburgh tours for you was a piece of cake. Don’t miss these tours and experiences. Click through to secure your spot!
Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh
“The Mountebank Comedy Walk is Edinburgh’s only comedy walking tour and the only tour of Edinburgh led by a professional, local, stand-up comedian. This is a walking tour that is ‘hysterical’ and ‘historical’ you will laugh a lot and you might just learn a little! On this walk around Edinburgh’s Old Town I will tell you everything you need to know about Edinburgh, Scotland, and possibly a little you probably didn’t want to know about me!”
This one of the most popular Airbnb experiences Edinburgh offerings, and has a near-perfect 5-star rating from over 700+ travelers!
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/202530
Price: $19 per person (2 Hours)
Review: “Really fun tour. Daniel is very funny and personable. It’s a really unique variation on your standard history tour. I’ll definitely recommend this to friends!”
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Edinburgh: Underground Vaults & Graveyard Evening Tour
“Explore our infamous, dark past and the characters doomed to die and doomed to haunt the living. You’ll visit both the Blair Street Underground Vaults and the Canongate Graveyard.”
https://www.getyourguide.com/edinburgh-l44/doomed-dead-buried-vaults-graveyard-tour-t66534/
Price: From $33 USD (105 minutes)
Review: “I highly recommend this fascinating tour into the underbelly of Edinburgh. It’s an ideal activity for anyone keen to acquire nuggets of knowledge about the city’s past and some of its most famous figures. Hannah, our guide, was informative and funny from start to finish, and very clearly had a passion for the subject. The Vaults were easily the highlight of the night – I can’t recall visiting any other place quite as atmospheric (and creepy.)” – Adam, United Kingdom
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Edinburgh: Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
“Take a magical 2-hour walking tour of Edinburgh and discover the city where the world of Harry Potter was conceived. Test your knowledge with an audio-visual quiz, find out your Hogwarts House, and visit Tom Riddle’s grave.”
Price: From $23 USD (2 hours)
Review: “Really well-informed guide on all things Potter as well as Edinburgh (Sarah the witch). The tour was lots of fun and very interactive, taking in the sights and locations that inspired elements of J K Rowling’s stories. It worked well across all ages of the tour group and took in quite a lot of different areas of the city and gave you ideas for other places to go back to.” – Melanie, United Kingdom
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Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
“Enjoy a full day tour and experience some of the most dramatic scenery the Scottish Highlands has to offer. Spend time at mysterious Glencoe and have the chance to enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness and a visit to Urquhart Castle.”
https://www.getyourguide.com/edinburgh-l44/loch-ness-glencoe-the-highlands-t12651/
Price: From $95 USD (12.5 hours)
Review: “We had an amazing time! We’ve actually booked two more tours since. The tour guides’ commentary was fabulous, he was very knowledgeable and entertaining.” – Anonymous, Australia
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Did I Miss any Top Airbnb in Edinburgh, Scotland?
Edinburgh has so many incredible Airbnb vacation rentals, I had to leave out a bunch or this list would have been far longer than 17! I love hearing about and showcasing top-shelf Airbnbs, so if you have stayed in the perfect Edinburgh pad or are the host of one feel free to get in touch with me and I’ll see if I can get you on my list. I’m contactable via my social media channels and email!
Are you planning a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland or Britain?
The U.K and Ireland are world-class travel destinations, and it’s as popular with visitors as it ever was! I’m working on building my U.K and Ireland travel content, but I have a solid list of blogs and lists that will keep you busy. Have a browse through these British travel blogs, music festival and Airbnb lists and city guides for more ideas for your next big trip!
- The 30 Best UK Music Festivals To Experience Before You Die
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- Top 20 AirBNB’s in Manchester For The Ultimate Holiday Experience
- 23 Music Festivals In Ireland To Experience Before You Die
- The 19 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Dublin For an Epic Irish Getaway
Final Thoughts on Airbnb Scotland, Edinburgh Rentals
Edinburgh is a magical city with so much to offer, and with Glasgow less than an hour away, you can experience two incredible Scottish cities in one amazing trip. Airbnb has made it possible to stay right in the heart of the action, be it on the Royal Mile with the Castle as your neighbor or in other city hotspots.
Be prepared to eat some unique meals, drink and dance a LOT and chat endlessly to friendly locals who love to talk about their city. The stunning city of Edinburgh awaits you…
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