Holiday rentals and lettings in Edinburgh

Discover the charm of holiday rentals in Edinburgh, where traditional Scottish architecture meets modern comfort in one of Europe's most captivating capitals. These accommodations range from elegant Georgian townhouses in the prestigious New Town to historic properties along the famous Royal Mile, each offering a unique blend of period features and contemporary amenities.

Many properties showcase distinctive elements such as original Victorian fireplaces, soaring ceilings with ornate cornicing, and windows that frame spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle or the rolling Pentland Hills. Holiday rentals in Edinburgh typically occupy converted historic buildings, art deco mansions, or charming mews houses reflecting the city's rich architectural heritage spanning centuries.

The accommodations in Scotland's capital provide an impressive array of modern conveniences designed to enhance your stay. Holiday rentals in Edinburgh are renowned for their thoughtful amenities and attention to detail. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, these properties deliver exceptional comfort and functionality. Here's what guests can expect from these exceptional accommodations:

• Fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances and quality cookware for preparing Scottish specialties
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and smart TVs with streaming services for entertainment
• Central heating and cozy fireplaces for warmth during Scotland's cooler months
• Private parking spaces or permit arrangements in the city center
• Self-check-in systems with 24/7 property management support
• Quality linens, towels, and hotel-standard cleaning services
• Stunning views of iconic landmarks, historic gardens, or the surrounding hills

Culture enthusiasts and history buffs will find Edinburgh irresistible, with over 1,000 years of Scottish heritage waiting to be explored. Art lovers can immerse themselves in world-class collections at the National Galleries, while literature fans can trace the footsteps of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and J.

K. Rowling through the city's atmospheric closes and wynds.

Festival enthusiasts should visit during August when the city transforms into a global arts hub with the Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe, featuring thousands of performances across hundreds of venues. Holiday accommodation in Edinburgh provides the perfect base for families seeking educational adventures, with attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, and the mysterious Real Mary King's Close offering engaging experiences for all ages. Romantic couples will appreciate intimate strolls through Princes Street Gardens and sunset views from Calton Hill, while outdoor enthusiasts can explore Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano offering panoramic vistas across the city and beyond to the North Sea. The best time to visit varies by interest: summer temperatures average 15-18°C (59-64°F) with longer daylight hours, while autumn and winter offer cozy indoor cultural experiences with temperatures ranging from 3-12°C (37-54°F), and current availability shows excellent options with prices ranging from AUD 539-1,310 per week depending on the season and property type.

Edinburgh offers an extraordinary collection of historical landmarks, cultural treasures, and natural wonders that showcase the very best of Scottish heritage and contemporary culture. From ancient castles perched on volcanic rock to world-renowned museums housing priceless artifacts, each destination provides unique insights into the city's fascinating past and vibrant present.

1. Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
2. National Museum of Scotland
3. Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
4. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
5. The Scotch Whisky Experience

Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile

Dominating the city skyline from its position atop Castle Rock, this ancient fortress houses the Crown Jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny, while the cobblestone Royal Mile stretches downhill through the historic Old Town, lined with traditional shops, historic closes, and atmospheric pubs.

National Museum of Scotland

This magnificent museum showcases everything from prehistoric Scotland to modern innovations, featuring Dolly the sheep, ancient Pictish stones, and interactive galleries that bring Scottish history and culture to life for visitors of all ages.

Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park

This extinct volcano rises 251 meters above sea level, offering spectacular 360-degree views across Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside, with hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels and breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Spanning 70 acres, these world-class gardens feature over 13,000 plant species from around the globe, including magnificent Victorian glasshouses, Chinese gardens, and peaceful woodland walks just minutes from the city center.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Located on the Royal Mile, this immersive attraction takes visitors on a journey through Scotland's whisky regions via a magical barrel ride, concluding with tastings of premium single malts and award-winning blended whiskies in atmospheric surroundings.

Edinburgh's culinary scene perfectly balances traditional Scottish fare with innovative international cuisine, offering exceptional dining experiences that have earned recognition from food critics and travelers alike. These highly-rated establishments showcase the city's commitment to quality ingredients, creative presentation, and memorable hospitality.

• Dishoom Edinburgh (4.8/5 stars) - This acclaimed Indian restaurant on St Andrew Square serves Bombay-style cuisine in an atmosphere reminiscent of old Irani cafés, featuring house-made black daal, perfectly spiced biryanis, and an impressive selection of craft cocktails
• Makars Mash Bar (4.8/5 stars) - A beloved local institution on Bank Street specializing in creative variations of traditional Scottish comfort food, serving gourmet sausages with inventive mashed potato combinations and locally-sourced ingredients
• National Galleries of Scotland Café (4.6/5 stars) - Located within the prestigious art gallery on The Mound, this elegant café offers seasonal Scottish fare with beautiful views over Princes Street Gardens, perfect for cultural dining experiences

Savvy travelers will appreciate Edinburgh's unique characteristics and local customs that enhance any visit to Scotland's historic capital. The city operates on a compact, walkable scale where major attractions lie within easy reach, though the hilly terrain requires comfortable footwear for exploring the Old Town's steep closes and wynds.

Local hosts consistently recommend purchasing a day pass for Lothian Buses, which provides excellent connectivity throughout the city and surrounding areas, including direct routes to Edinburgh Airport. Holiday rentals with a private pool in Edinburgh are relatively rare due to the city's historic architecture and temperate climate, but many properties feature other luxury amenities such as private gardens, hot tubs, or access to exclusive resident facilities.

The city's festivals extend far beyond the famous August events, with year-round celebrations including the Edinburgh International Science Festival in April, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and Hogmanay, Scotland's legendary New Year celebration featuring street parties and fireworks. Sustainability-conscious travelers will discover that Edinburgh actively promotes eco-friendly tourism through extensive recycling programs, excellent public transportation, and numerous farmers' markets featuring locally-sourced Scottish produce. Understanding Scottish etiquette enhances interactions with locals - a simple "how are you?" is genuinely welcomed, and showing interest in Scottish culture and history opens doors to authentic conversations and recommendations. For the ultimate Edinburgh experience, consider booking family-friendly holiday rentals in Edinburgh during shoulder seasons when accommodation rates are more favorable, crowds are thinner, and you can truly appreciate the city's natural beauty and cultural richness at a relaxed pace.