Discover Edinburgh, Scotland at These Airbnb Alternatives in Old Town
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s magical atmosphere with a stay in the historic heart of the city
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With its historical attractions, beloved festivals and vibrant arts scene, Edinburgh is a fantastic choice for a city break. Whether you’re going on a big group holiday or a romantic getaway with your other half, make it a memorable trip with a stay in the Old Town area. Home to medieval and Georgian architecture and charming cobbled streets, this neighbourhood is bursting with culture and history. Take a look at our selection of Airbnb alternatives in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland, hand-picked by our travel experts here at Plum Guide.
Upon the Mile
Upon the Mile, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
This studio apartment is perfect for solo travellers or couples looking for a base to explore the city. As far as studios go, this one's a decent size and includes a little lounge area complete with a sofa, armchair and dining table for two. The decor is clean and uncluttered, with plenty of natural light streaming in through the large windows. The location is pretty hard to beat, as you're right across from the National Museum of Scotland. Take a ten-minute stroll to Edinburgh Castle, or shop 'til you drop on Princes Street, also ten minutes away. When you've worked up an appetite, the home has a small but well-equipped kitchen, or take your pick from the many independent eateries and pubs nearby.
Old Town Heart
Old Town Heart, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
When it comes to Airbnb alternatives in Edinburgh, Scotland's Old Town, it's hard to find somewhere more centrally located than this home. You're right on the Royal Mile, which runs through the heart of the Old Town. It's great for those looking to immerse themselves in culture and history. You'll find independent shops and cafes right on your doorstep, as well as attractions like Camera Obscura, the Scotch Whisky Experience and the spooky Real Mary King's Close. After an exciting day of sightseeing, the home's minimalist, fuss-free interiors provide a calming space to kick back and relax with a glass of wine on the sofa. There's even a fully-equipped kitchen should you want to whip up a meal.
Single Malt
Single Malt, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
If it’s views you’re after, this home certainly delivers. Forget the TV – you’ll be too distracted by the picture-perfect vistas of Edinburgh Castle framed by the living room’s large windows. But the spectacular scenery isn’t the only thing it has going for it. The interiors are elegant but laid-back, with traditional touches blending nicely with more contemporary pieces. We particularly love the nod to Scotland in the tartan cushions, the artwork and the deep purple carpets reminiscent of Scottish thistle. With three plush bedrooms to choose from (each with an en-suite), this home is ideal for a group of friends looking for somewhere special to stay on a city break.
A Royal View
A Royal View, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
This charming home near the top of the Royal Mile is a great choice for those who want to be at the heart of the action. You're just over a five-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, and the same distance to the Scotch Whisky Experience, where you can enjoy a guided tour and tastings of Scotland's national drink. If you've had a little too much to drink and need a rest, head back home for a quick nap. The lounge is bright and breezy with magnificent fourth-floor views over the Royal Mile towards Arthur's Seat, and there's also an open-plan kitchen diner should you want to eat in. We particularly love the little details of the home, from the exposed stone walls to the sash windows and sloping ceilings. Just keep in mind that the building doesn't have an elevator – be ready to climb 77 steps via a spiral staircase to reach the front door.
Staircase to Edinburgh
Staircase To Edinburgh, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
It can be tricky to uncover city centre homes that can accommodate large groups, which is why this apartment is a rare find – we simply had to include it on our list of Airbnb alternatives in Edinburgh, Scotland's Old Town. Set in a historic building on the Royal Mile, this five-bedroom home has been given a 21st-century facelift with all the modern amenities you'll need. The open-plan kitchen and huge dining table are made for entertaining, and there's a choice of two lounges should you need the extra space for board games, watching TV and catching up with friends.
On Royal Mile
On Royal Mile, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
As the name suggests, this home is perfect if you want to be right on the Royal Mile. You’ll find everything within a short walking distance, including the Scottish Parliament and the Palace Of Holyroodhouse. It’s also a great base for events, with front-row seats to the Festival, Fringe and Hogmanay celebrations. Tastefully furnished with a sleek, modern kitchen and cosy seating area for when you want to relax at the end of the day, it may not be the trendiest home, but it suits those wanting to be in the heart of the action. With two double bedrooms, this apartment is a good choice for a group of friends or family.
University Place
University Place, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
Searching for unique Airbnb alternatives in Edinburgh, Scotland's Old Town? This three-bedroom apartment, just a three-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, has bundles of character, and you can tell that thought has been put into every little detail. We love the rich teal colour scheme in the living room, while the panelled walls and fireplace create a cosy space to relax in at the end of the day. Get cooking in the galley kitchen (keen chefs will love the Smeg cooker) and tuck into a meal in the dining room – there's even a piano for some dinnertime entertainment. The two main bedrooms have been tastefully decorated, with fireplaces and brass bed frames adding a touch of luxury. There's also a third single bedroom which can be converted into a double if you're travelling with a larger group.
Castle’s Reach
Castle’s Reach, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
If you're searching for a wow factor, this home certainly has it. Set in an 1850s building, one of Scotland's top interior designers gave this pad a sleek makeover. It's full of luxe furnishings, such as the plush velvet sofa and dining table chairs. There's a high-spec kitchen, a drinks cabinet for when you want to entertain guests, and an outside seating area for drinks and alfresco meals – there's even a gas fireplace for chilly evenings. The location in the heart of Edinburgh's theatre district is no less impressive. You're just a minute's stroll from Usher Hall, while the Lyceum Theatre and Princes' Street are both three minutes away.
The Enlightened
The Enlightened, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
With Princes Street Gardens and the Grassmarket both less than a ten-minute walk away, this home is well-positioned for exploring Edinburgh's Old Town. After a busy day of sightseeing, shopping and tasting the city's culinary delights, you'll appreciate coming home to such luxurious interiors. Have a soak in the roll-top bath before pouring a glass of wine and putting your feet up in the lounge. Its cream colour palette is lovely and calming, and doesn't detract from the striking views of the city. There are four full-sized bedrooms to choose from, but we recommend placing dibs on the one with the four-poster bed, just for that extra dose of extravagance.
A Wee Dram
A Wee Dram, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
Those looking for a posh city pad will love this modern apartment at the foot of the Royal Mile. The living room is a personal favourite, a relaxing space filled with natural light streaming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows. If you don’t fancy donning your outdoor gear, stay in and admire the fantastic views of Arthur’s Seat from the comfort of your sofa. While the kitchen is essentially an extendible cabinet, you’re just a short walk from the numerous restaurants and pubs in the streets surrounding the Royal Mile.
The Goldmine
The Goldmine, Plum Guide home in Edinburgh, Scotland
Travelling to Edinburgh for a special occasion? Make it even more memorable with a stay in one of the most palatial homes on our list of Airbnb alternatives Edinburgh, Scotland's charming Old Town. With its antique furniture, chandeliers, gold-framed artwork and Persian rugs, it's difficult not to be impressed by this home. Gather around the elegant dining table for a meal, before getting cosy in the lounge with its brown leather chaise sofa and fireplace. Before heading to bed, indulge in a little self-care by pouring a glass of champagne and sinking into the roll-top bath. We'd understand if you didn't want to leave the house, but should you feel like sightseeing, its desirable Ramsay Garden location means you're just a stone's throw from Edinburgh's attractions.
