Edinburgh Accommodation

In fact, Edinburgh has the second largest range of accommodation in the entire UK (after London). Hotels run the gamut from sumptuous palaces fit for the financial elite to cheap and cheerful backpacker dosshouses.

One reason why Edinburgh's hotels are in such good shape is the success of the International Conference Centre (www.eicc.co.uk). High-rolling corporate clients have spurred on new development and convinced many of the older establishments that they needed a facelift. However, the 'best bit' is that many of these upmarket hotels empty at the weekends (when business commuters return home) and it's possible to pick up some great bargains. A number of well-known chain hotels have also recently been added to Edinburgh's phonebook.

Outside the city centre Edinburgh does a great line in Guesthouses and Bed and Breakfasts, where you'll get a friendly welcome and a real taste of Edinburgh life (not to mention a hearty fry-up). Edinburgh 's relative compactness and reliable public transport links mean that it's worth considering staying outside the city centre. In the suburbs you'll find that many of Edinburgh's cheaper beds are beautifully housed in impressive Georgian and Victorian piles.

Edinburgh's popularity as a tourist destination means that rooms can fill up quickly. If you're planning a visit for the August Edinburgh Festival (www.eif.co.uk) or Hogmanay (Scotland 's New Year celebrations - www.edinburghshogmanay.org) you'll have to start making enquiries months in advance. If you simply turn up during these peak times the chances are that you'll be sorely disappointed (or ripped off). However, if you do arrive without any accommodation booked; make your way to the Edinburgh Tourist Board (www.edinburgh.org). They'll be happy to see what's available and make you a reservation for a small fee. Alternatively you can do the ringing around yourself and see if you can hunt down any late deals (Great tip! Its often easier to get a good deal on the Internet than on the phone. We have personally experinced getting better deals on the Internet oposed to standing at the hotel reception in person!). Edinburgh's low season runs form October to April and you can expect accommodation prices to drop by as much as 50 percent.

Continue with this guide to:
> Hotels
> Flights to Edinburgh
> Bed & Breakfast