Best Hostels in Edinburgh

Castle Rock Hostel stands out as a jewel in the heart of Edinburgh, perfectly perched beside the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Its prime location ensures guests are immersed in the city's history, just a stone's throw from the Grassmarket, Royal Mile, and the vibrant late-night life, yet nestled on a relatively quiet street for a peaceful retreat. The hostel itself, a grand building dating back to 1846, has been transformed into a haven for backpackers seeking both adventure and tranquillity.

The hostel's interior is a feast for the eyes, adorned with art and antiques, making it feel more like an art gallery or museum. The themed rooms are spacious, clean, and warm, providing a cosy haven after a day of exploring. With a large kitchen, multiple lounges, and free Wi-Fi, there is ample space for socialising or finding a quiet corner to relax.

Castle Rock's atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, thanks in no small part to the exceptional staff who are always on hand to offer advice, answer questions, and ensure guests have a memorable stay. Their popular walking tours and pub crawls are highly praised, providing an excellent way to see the city and meet fellow travellers.

For those seeking a unique and enriching experience in Edinburgh, Castle Rock Hostel offers an unbeatable combination of location, character, and hospitality, making it one of the city's best hostels for travellers over 18. With its array of facilities, from secure lockers and luggage storage to a cinema room and a cosy fireplace, it caters to every need, ensuring a comfortable, secure, and enjoyable stay.

CoDE Pod – The CoURT in Edinburgh is a testament to innovative accommodation, merging the historical charm of its courthouse and jail origin with modern, urban design. This premium pod hostel stands out for its unique Asian-style pod sleeping environment, offering travellers a fusion of privacy, security, and comfort at an affordable cost. Situated in the pulsating heart of Edinburgh, it provides effortless access to the city's major attractions and convenient transport links to the airport, train, and bus stations, all just a few minutes' walk away.

The transformation of a former courthouse and jail into The CoURT by CoDE is nothing short of remarkable, blending cool, converted holding cells as private rooms and high-tech pod beds in dormitories. The addition of an underground bar and the preservation of the original courtroom for communal use are perfect examples of the hostel's commitment to preserving its unique heritage while offering a cutting-edge lodging experience.

Adherence to minimum brand standards such as cleanliness, high-quality mattresses, and linen, coupled with a healthy breakfast option, underscores their dedication to guest comfort and satisfaction. Moreover, the hostel prides itself on its friendly, knowledgeable staff, ready to assist with a 'how can I help' attitude, enhancing the overall guest experience.

CoDE Pod – The CoURT is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to experiencing Edinburgh's vibrancy, with a welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully designed spaces. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable, comfortable, and affordable stay in the heart of the city, making it one of the best hostels in Edinburgh.

Kick Ass Grassmarket effortlessly captures the essence of Edinburgh's vibrant character, making it one of the city's standout hostels. Located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, this historic building places guests at the epicentre of cultural attractions and the bustling Edinburgh nightlife, with every major site within walking distance.

The hostel's dedication to fun and social interaction is evident through its organised events like pub crawls and quizzes, perfect for travellers looking to meet new people. Security is paramount, with 24-hour reception, electronic swipe card access, CCTV, and personal lockers for peace of mind.

The rooms at Kick Ass Grassmarket set a new standard for hostel accommodation, blending modern necessities with comfort. Wi-Fi, USB charging points, and private bed lights cater to the needs of the contemporary traveller, while the design maximises space and privacy. Superior quality mattresses and fresh linen ensure a restful night's sleep.

The Kick Ass Bar, serving breakfast and evening drinks, becomes a social hub for guests, fostering a friendly community atmosphere. This hostel not only provides a secure, comfortable stay but also embodies the spirit of Edinburgh, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic and enjoyable hostel experience in Scotland's capital.

High Street Hostel, a beacon of hospitality in Edinburgh's historic heart, has carved a niche for itself among globetrotters. Nestled just off the Royal Mile, its location is unparalleled, offering guests the quintessence of Edinburgh's vibrant culture and history at their doorstep. Celebrated for more than a decade on Hostelworld, it's clear why guests are quick to sing its praises.

The hostel, housed in the historic 470-year-old Morton House, provides a unique blend of ancient charm and modern amenities. Following recent refurbishments, it boasts free hostel-wide Wi-Fi, personal power points with USB, and bed lights next to every bed, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. The commitment to security is commendable, with free lockers, safes, and a 24-hour staff presence, offering peace of mind to travellers.

What sets High Street Hostel apart is not just its facilities but its atmosphere. It's a place where backpackers thrive, meeting people from across the globe, enjoying 24/7 hot showers, and complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. The hostel's rich history, including its connection to the Earl of Morton, adds a layer of intrigue to your stay.

The lively events like weekly pub crawls and trivia nights encourage guests to explore Edinburgh's local scene, while the night lounge provides a perfect prelude or epilogue to your adventures. Awarded the Blackfriars Street hostel of the decade, High Street Hostel is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to experiencing Edinburgh's past and present, making it one of the city's best hostels.

St Christopher's Edinburgh stands out as an exceptional choice for travellers venturing into the historic heart of Scotland's capital. Its prime location is a stone's throw away from the Royal Mile and directly across from Waverley Train Station, presenting an unbeatable convenience for guests arriving from London, Scotland, and Northern England. This proximity to major transport links and the city's medieval Old Town puts guests at the centre of Edinburgh's rich cultural tapestry.

The hostel itself boasts a vibrant atmosphere, underscored by friendly staff and well-maintained, bright rooms. Security is taken seriously, with under-bed lockers provided for peace of mind. Moreover, the on-site Belushi's Bar enhances the stay with its lively ambience, offering guests exclusive discounts on food and drink, making it a popular spot for both socialising and relaxing.

Beyond the basics, St Christopher's Edinburgh enriches the visitor experience with organised events like bar crawls and free walking tours, ensuring guests have every opportunity to explore Edinburgh's historic streets and social scene. The option of a continental breakfast for a modest fee ensures a convenient start to the day, fuelling exploration of nearby attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish National Galleries.

In summary, St Christopher's Edinburgh delivers a comprehensive package: top-notch location, secure and clean accommodation, engaging social events, and a friendly atmosphere, all of which combine to make it one of the best hostels in Edinburgh for backpackers and budget travellers alike.