7 best family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh
Search hotels in Edinburgh →
Why family-friendly hotels, why here
Family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh are best chosen with location, space, and practical day-to-day comfort in mind—so trips stay fun rather than stressful. For families, the most helpful neighbourhoods are the historic core near the Royal Mile, which runs between Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse (ideal for car-free sightseeing and easy walking with children). And for downtime, staying around Princes Street Gardens puts you close to a central green space between the Old and New Towns, making it simple to schedule playground breaks.
A genuinely family-friendly hotel typically offers family-sized rooms or apartments, flexible bedding arrangements, and a calm check-in/out experience that works around naps and early starts. It also suits parents who want to explore the city’s Old and New Towns—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blends medieval streets and grand Georgian planning—without long transfers.
Where to stay from our bookable selection: Market Street Hotel (4★) and Southside Guest House (4★) are great bases for families who want comfortable, well-located stays. If you prefer extra room or a more apartment-style set-up, Gilmour's Entry Apartment delivers that home-from-home feel, while Another Room (1★) can suit smaller budgets looking for an easy, central base.
The list
A selection of hotels to compare for your stay.
- 01★★★★
Wilde Aparthotels By Staycity Grassmarket
Smart Old Town aparthotel in Grassmarket with kitchens and standout castle views.
- 02★★★★★
Rocco Forte The Balmoral
Classic Princes Street luxury beside Waverley, with a 15-meter spa pool worth planning around.
- 03★★★★
Staycity Aparthotels West End (ex Staycity Apartments Edinburgh)
Spacious West End apartments near Haymarket with full kitchens for self-catering stays.
- 05★★★
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh - Princes Street, an IHG Hotel (ex Royal British)
Design-led Princes Street spot with castle-view rooms and the Twent Princes Street restaurant.
- 06★★★
ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre St Andrew Square
Lively New Town spot near Princes Street with long-hours continental breakfast.
- 07★★★★
Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh
Suite-style New Town base near The Meadows, with a sauna and kitchenettes.
- 08★★★★★
Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa Edinburgh
Smart West End stay in Festival Square, anchored by One Spa’s rooftop hydropool.
Where the picks sit
What to know about family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh
What makes these family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh suitable for families?
Look for family-sized accommodation, practical layouts (or apartment-style options), and a location that reduces transit time so kids can keep routines.
Which area is best for families to stay in?
Staying near the Royal Mile and Princes Street Gardens helps you balance major sights with quick access to outdoor breaks.
What price level should families expect here?
Our selection ranges from budget-friendly options like Another Room (1★) up to higher-end stays such as 5★ properties, depending on room type and dates.