2 best hostels in Edinburgh
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Why hostels, why here
Hostels in Edinburgh suit travellers who want a social, good-value base for exploring the city centre on foot. The best areas for “hostel-minded” stays sit close to the historic core and the walkable hub of the Royal Mile, which runs through the Old Town from Edinburgh Castle towards Holyrood Palace. (visitscotland.com/unesco-trail-edinburgh-old-new-towns). For lively evenings and easy access to attractions, Cowgate is a strong Old Town option, forming part of the lower streets below the elevated routes and meeting the Grassmarket. (wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowgate).
If you prefer a slightly calmer “tourist stroll” feel, Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens put you between the New Town and Old Town—ideal for grabbing breakfast, then walking through the gardens to reach major viewpoints and museums. (outaboutscotland.com/princes-street-gardens).
Within our listed inventory, choices like Princes Street Hostel and Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel fit travellers chasing central access and a classic hostel atmosphere, while Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate and Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel suit those who want to be plugged into Old Town streets. If you’re prioritising comfort over price or want a more relaxed stay style, Argyle Backpackers (4★) stands out for higher-end hostel facilities, and budget-first travellers often look at The Hostel (2★) or Edinburgh West Side Hostel (1★).
The list
A selection of hotels to compare for your stay.
- 01
Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel
Budget-friendly New Town base near Waverley, with a shared kitchen and 24-hour desk.
- 02
Princes Street Hostel
Lively New Town hostel with shared kitchen and strong-value adult-only dorms.
Where the picks sit
What to know about hostels in Edinburgh
What makes hostels in Edinburgh a good fit for most visitors?
They’re typically excellent value in central neighbourhoods, placing you within easy walking distance of major sights like the Old Town and New Town.
Which area should I stay in?
For first-timers, Old Town bases around the Royal Mile and Cowgate are most convenient; for a balance of sights and space, look near Princes Street/Princes Street Gardens.
Are hostel prices usually budget or mid-range?
You’ll generally find budget-to-mid options, with many of the 1–2★ hostels targeting the lowest nightly rates and higher-star hostel styles costing more.