Edinburgh, a city bursting with history, culture, and a vibrant arts scene, is a must-visit for backpackers. When seeking the best hostels in Edinburgh, you’ll find a range of options catering to budget-savvy explorers looking for both comfort and community. With its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, this city provides a backdrop that is as enchanting as it is educational. I’ve been to European capitals numerous times, and Edinburgh remains one of my favorites for its mix of historical charm and modern amenities.
General Info on Hostels in Edinburgh
Edinburgh boasts some of the finest hostels in Europe, known for their cleanliness, friendly staff, and vibrant atmospheres.
Pricing: You can expect to pay between €20-€40 per night for a dorm bed, with prices peaking during the summer festival season.
Safety: Edinburgh is generally safe, but always check hostel reviews for specific comments on security and staff.
Location: Stay in the city center for convenience, or choose quieter areas near public transport for a more relaxed stay.
Amenities and Services: Common amenities include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and secure lockers. Many hostels also offer communal kitchens and social spaces.
Staff: Friendly and helpful staff are a hallmark of Edinburgh hostels, ensuring a welcoming and informative stay.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be better prepared to choose a hostel that fits your style and budget, ensuring a fantastic stay in Edinburgh.
Best Hostels in Edinburgh – Quick Answers
Here’s an overview by category of the awesome hostels mentioned in this article. Scroll down to see a full description (and images) of each recommended hostel.
- Overall Best Hostel in Edinburgh: Castle Rock Hostel
- Best Hostel in Edinburgh for Female Traveler: Haystack Hostels
- Best Party Hostel in Edinburgh: Kick Ass Greyfriars
- Best Cheap Hostel in Edinburgh: High Street Hostel
- Best Hostel in Edinburgh for Digital Nomads: CoDE Pod Hostels – THE CoURT
The Best Hostels in Edinburgh
Here’s my complete guide to the best hostels in Edinburgh:
1. Castle Rock Hostel
Castle Rock Hostel sits in the heart of Edinburgh, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Edinburgh Castle. This hostel exudes character with its quirky decor and cozy common rooms. It’s perfect for those who want to be in the midst of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Rooms at Castle Rock are varied, offering mixed and female-only dorms, as well as private rooms. Each bed comes with a secure locker and reading light. The hostel’s communal areas, including a grand lounge, movie room, and a vibrant kitchen, make it easy to meet fellow travelers. The staff here are renowned for their friendliness and local knowledge, ensuring you make the most of your stay in Edinburgh.
A quick overview of Castle Rock Hostel
- Key location features: Located near Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile.
- Most attractive amenities: Free Wi-Fi, secure lockers, communal kitchen.
- Community and social event details: Daily social events and tours.
Dorm beds from €27, Private rooms from €87
2. Haystack Hostels
Haystack Hostels, located just off Princes Street, is ideal for solo female travelers and anyone looking for a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. The modern design and friendly atmosphere make it a favorite among backpackers.
The hostel offers mixed and female-only dorms with comfortable beds, individual reading lights, and secure storage. The common area is bright and spacious, perfect for socializing or relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Haystack also provides a well-equipped kitchen and a complimentary breakfast. The staff are always ready to help with tips on exploring the city.
A quick overview of Haystack Hostels
- Key location features: Close to Princes Street and Waverley Station.
- Most attractive amenities: Free breakfast, secure lockers, well-equipped kitchen.
- Community and social event details: Regular social events and communal dinners.Bullet points
Dorm beds from €32, Private rooms from €105
3. CoDE Pod Hostels – THE CoURT
Located in a former courthouse, CoDE Pod Hostels – THE CoURT offers a unique stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town. The pod-style beds provide privacy and comfort, making it a hit with digital nomads and travelers seeking a bit more privacy.
Each pod comes with a curtain, charging point, and storage space. The hostel’s design cleverly combines the building’s historical features with modern amenities. The communal areas include a chic lounge and a kitchen where guests can cook and mingle. The location is unbeatable, with major attractions like the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace within walking distance.
A quick overview of CoDE Pod Hostels – THE CoURT
- Key location features: Situated in the Old Town, near Royal Mile.
- Most attractive amenities: Pod beds with privacy curtains, modern communal areas.
- Community and social event details: Regular events and guest mixers.
Dorm beds from €39, Private rooms from €115
4. Kick Ass Greyfriars
Kick Ass Greyfriars is known for its lively atmosphere, making it the top choice for party-loving backpackers. Located near the Grassmarket area, it’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, and historical sites.
The hostel features a variety of dorms, all equipped with secure lockers and individual lights. The bar and common area are the heart of the hostel, where you can join themed parties, karaoke nights, and pub crawls. Despite the party vibe, the hostel maintains high standards of cleanliness and security, ensuring a comfortable stay.
A quick overview of Kick Ass Greyfriars
- Key location features: Grassmarket area, close to nightlife.
- Most attractive amenities: On-site bar, secure lockers, themed events.
- Community and social event details: Pub crawls, karaoke nights, and parties.
Dorm beds from €28, Private rooms from €109
5. Royal Mile Backpackers
Nestled on Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, Royal Mile Backpackers offers a cozy and homely atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action while enjoying a quieter retreat.
The hostel provides mixed dorms with comfortable beds and secure storage. The common room is a great place to relax, complete with a fireplace and a selection of board games. Guests can make use of the kitchen facilities and enjoy a free tea and coffee service. The friendly staff are always ready to offer advice on local attractions and hidden gems.
A quick overview of Royal Mile Backpackers
- Key location features: Located on the Royal Mile.
- Most attractive amenities: Free tea and coffee, cozy common room, secure storage.
- Community and social event details: Board games and relaxed social atmosphere.
Dorm beds from €32
6. High Street Hostel
High Street Hostel, one of Edinburgh’s oldest hostels, offers a blend of history and modern comfort. Located in a 470-year-old building, it provides a unique experience for budget-conscious travelers.
The hostel features a variety of dorms and private rooms, all with secure lockers and comfortable beds. The common areas include a medieval-style lounge and a modern kitchen. The hostel is known for its eco-friendly practices and community vibe, with regular social events and communal dinners.
A quick overview of High Street Hostel
- Key location features: Central location, historic building.
- Most attractive amenities: Eco-friendly, secure lockers, medieval lounge.
- Community and social event details: Communal dinners and social events.
Dorm beds from €24, Private rooms from €86
7. Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel
Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel is a top choice for those seeking a more structured environment with reliable facilities. Located near the city center, it offers easy access to Edinburgh’s main attractions.
The hostel provides a range of accommodations, from dorms to private rooms, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a bistro-style restaurant, a café, and several communal areas. The hostel also offers meeting rooms, making it ideal for digital nomads needing a workspace. The staff are professional and helpful, ensuring a pleasant stay.
A quick overview of Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel
- Key location features: Near city center and major attractions.
- Most attractive amenities: Bistro, café, meeting rooms.
- Community and social event details: Professional environment, ideal for digital nomads.
Dorm beds from €32, Private rooms from €66
8. CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT
CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT offers a stylish and modern stay in Edinburgh’s New Town. The hostel’s design emphasizes comfort and privacy, making it a great choice for longer stays and digital nomads.
The LoFT features pod-style beds with curtains, individual lights, and storage. The communal areas are chic and inviting, including a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. Guests can also enjoy a well-equipped kitchen and regular social events. The location is perfect for exploring both the New Town and Old Town.
A quick overview of CoDE Co-Living – The LoFT
- Key location features: New Town, close to attractions.
- Most attractive amenities: Rooftop terrace, pod beds, modern kitchen.
- Community and social event details: Regular social events and mixers.
Dorm beds from €39, Private rooms from €129
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Edinburgh
Finding the best hostels in Edinburgh ensures a memorable and affordable stay in this captivating city. From the lively Kick Ass Greyfriars to the eco-friendly High Street Hostel, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re a solo female traveler, a digital nomad, or just looking for a fun and social environment, Edinburgh’s hostels offer a variety of experiences to match your needs. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Edinburgh with the comfort and community that these fantastic hostels provide.