Written by
Undercover Phoenician
|
Last update: Mar 26, 2024
Always keep exploring: Find exactly what you're looking for by jumping to your preferred sections.
Our guide to the best youth hostels in Edinburgh is your secret passage to a realm where history haunts the halls, laughter fills the pubs, and adventure awaits at every turn. Here, castles meet comfort, ghosts might share your bunk, and the locals are as enchanting as the landscapes.
Get ready to explore cobbled streets, mysterious closes, and the spirited heart of Scotland from the cozy confines of the best youth hostels in Edinburgh, where every nook promises a new tale.
Short and crisp: Hostels in Edinburgh
#1 Top Rated Hostel in Edinburgh! Rating: 8.7
Nestled between Edinburgh’s quaint Old Town and the vibrant New Town, Haystack Hostels reigns as one of the best youth hostels in Edinburgh. A hop, skip, and a jump from both train and bus stations ensures footloose explorers can revel in Scotland’s rugged highlands or serene lochs effortlessly. Chock-full of local insights, the ultra-friendly staff are your go-to guides to the city's pulsing nightlife and cultural treasures.
The place buzzes with a sociable vibe where travelers mingle in a common room laden with games, tunes, and books amidst a relaxed ambiance. Charge up and snuggle into squeaky-clean beds sporting personal lights and sockets. Crave privacy? Single-gender dorms await. Fancy a self-made feast? The full kitchen's your culinary playground.
With round-the-clock reception at your beck and call, any hour is help hour. Despite needing to navigate spiraling staircases, comfort reigns with hot-showers-a-plenty and a sincere, if quieter, adult atmosphere for those who treasure tranquility over tumult. Small quibbles like lock size aside, secure storage keeps belongings snug.
Prices start from $32.88 for a dorm and $105.06 for a private room.
Breakfast
Bike Rental
City Tours
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.7
Just a stone's throw from the iconic Edinburgh Waverley station, Princes Street Hostel is a non-smoking sanctuary, enveloped by hotspots like Camera Obscura and the historic Royal Mile. Here, mingling and relaxation go hand in hand in the shared lounge, complete with complimentary WiFi to keep you connected.
Feel at home in any room, all equipped with snug beds and essential amenities, ensuring comfort paired with that much-needed digital hook-up. Despite being perched atop a four-story walk-up – think of it as your daily workout – the inviting ambiance extends to well-appointed shared bathrooms and a vast kitchen, free for culinary exploits.
Prices start from $36.91 for a dorm and $113.35 for a private room.
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Rating: 8.5
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's spirited Old Town, Kick Ass Greyfriars not only claims the title of being the best youth hostel in Edinburgh but also serves as a hub of youthful zest and conviviality. Just a hop, skip, and jump away from iconic hotspots like Royal Mile and Edinburgh Waverley Station, it dishes out an authentic slice of the city's vibrant nightlife with historic Grassmarket square just around the corner.
This strictly adult-only (no kids allowed!) getaway offers more than a place to crash, boasting funky modern rooms with the comfiest bunks in town, free speedy WiFi to keep you connected, and eventful evenings filled with pub crawls and quizzes. Security is top-notch—think 24/7 reception and swipe card access—while the Kick Ass Greyfriars is on-point with tips to ace your Edinburgh escapade. Whether you're keen on billiards or itching for insider city info, this hostel’s mix of convenience, fun, and friendly vibes could be your perfect match!
Prices start from $28.14 for a dorm and $109.29 for a private room.
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Rating: 8.3
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+) is not your average dormitory—it's a contender for the best youth hostel in Edinburgh, boasting a vibrant community vibe. Here's the scoop: gorgeous castle views straight from your bunk in the female dorm, the comfiest crash-pads for a snug sleep post-adventure, and amenity-rich hangouts, all with a quirky, local flair.
A stone's throw from iconic sights, you're in prime territory to explore! Whether it's buzzing bars or historical haunts you're after, everything's within walking distance. And for mingling? The shared kitchen is a treasure trove of culinary tools awaiting your chef-like finesse. Not to forget, the endlessly hot showers are your remedy after long days of city trotting. Flying into Edinburgh? You're just an 8km breeze away! In essence, it’s the go-to spot for a stay that's equal parts chill and thrill, with staff that add sunshine to even the dreariest Scottish day. In short, it’s easy to see why extended stays become a must.
Prices start from $28.86 for a dorm and $177.87 for a private room.
City Tours
Bar
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Kitchen
Rating: 8.0
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel is a gem of a find, boasting not just free WiFi and cozy communal digs but also an unbeatable location. Picture this: you step out, and within a mere 200-meter stroll, you're at the historic Real Mary King's Close or catching a train at Edinburgh Waverley station. Even Edinburgh Castle is less than a kilometer's jaunt away! As for smoke? No worries – it's a smoke-free haven. Plus, with the Royal Mile just 300 meters away, you're in prime territory.
But here’s the juicy bits: guests can’t stop buzzing about it being one of the best youth hostels in Edinburgh. Why? Imagine snagging an ultra-comfy bed in this bustling city, with top-notch staff adding to the experience. Sure, there’s a bit of buzz during rugby weekends – that’s Edinburgh for you – but that’s part of the charm! Super clean facilities, value that’ll make your wallet sing, and the safety that lets you sleep sound - especially for solo female travellers. And let's not forget the cherry on top: a manager who might just throw a game of pool to see you smile.
Prices start from $30.95 for a dorm and $50.42 for a private room.
Bar
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
Rating: 7.8
St Christopher's Edinburgh Old Town is an excellent choice for those seeking the best youth hostel experience in Edinburgh. With its prime location in the heart of the city, just a stone's throw from Edinburgh Waverley station, guests can easily explore nearby attractions. From the National Museum of Scotland to the University of Edinburgh, and the iconic Camera Obscura, it's all within easy reach. What truly sets this hostel apart is its convenient proximity to Edinburgh's must-see destinations.
The Royal Mile, The Real Mary King's Close, and the renowned Edinburgh Castle are all nearby, offering an unforgettable experience. Moreover, the hostel's amenities cater to every need, with air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. And with free WiFi, guests can easily stay connected during their adventures. So, whether one is a solo traveler or a group, St Christopher's Edinburgh Old Town provides an exceptional base to discover Edinburgh's charm.
Prices start from $27.61 for a dorm and $135.49 for a private room.
Bar
Laundry
Lounge Area
Walking Tours
Rating: 7.7
Argyle Backpackers is a gem tucked away in Victorian townhouses that ooze with character. It's the friendly embrace of history and modernity where you land a mere 10-minute stroll from the Old Town's mystique and Edinburgh Castle's grandeur. Their cozy rooms boast jaw-dropping views of the majestic Arthur's Seat, and city life whispers just outside your window—though you’d never guess with such peaceful slumber.
With organic markets, quirky cafes, and lively pubs at your doorstep, this is city living at its finest. And for those academics drifting in? Both Edinburgh University and Napier are just around the corner. The shared spaces here hum with life: grab a bike, mingle in the lounge, or whip up a feast in the communal kitchen. Solo traveler or not, you'll find safety, charm, and community under this warm roof—after all, when folks plan their return before they've even left, you know it’s not just good; it's Argyle Backpackers excellence.
Prices start from $26.79 for a dorm and $70.71 for a private room.
City Tours
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Swimming Pool
Rating: 7.7
Buzzing with energy, a&o Edinburgh City is always open to welcome travelers, offering round-the-clock hospitality, complimentary WIFI that never sleeps, and that homey no-curfew vibe.
The in-house Bar 50 is nothing short of an urban oasis by day and a hive of high spirits by night, setting the stage for memorable weekly soirees. It's the very definition of cool meets convenience, making it undeniably one of the best youth hostels in Edinburgh.
Whether you're a solo adventurer or rolling with your crew, a&o Edinburgh City caters to all with its eclectic mix of snug singles, doubles, family rooms, and social dorms for up to six buddies. And rest assured, each room boasts en-suite facilities for your privacy.
So if you've got an appetite for authentic Scottish nightlife and crave a quirky spot to crash, this hostel is your ultimate ticket to a city experience peppered with pizzazz!
Prices start from $31.00 for a dorm and $98.53 for a private room.
Breakfast (£4.95)
City Tours
Bar
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Karaoke
Kitchen
Laundry
Live Music/Performance
Lounge Area
Nightclub
Pool Table
Walking Tours
Rating: 7.2
With its lofty ceilings and spacious windows, The Hostel doesn't skimp on comfort or character. A mere stone's throw from Haymarket Train Station and a breezy stroll from Princes Street, getting around is a cinch. Guests rave about our comfy modern bunks complete with crisp bedding and digs adorned with the creative flair of Jade Carrera. Shared bath spaces aside, perks like 24/7 free WiFi, a snazzy communal lounge (decked out with digital TV and board games), and a sleek kitchen enhance your stay, while outdoor seating invites friendly banter under the Scottish sky.
Whether you're a solo explorer or on a group jaunt, affordability without sacrificing snugness is our promise. Nearby sights? You're in for a treat with Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St Mary's Cathedral all within easy reach on foot or public transit – not to mention the buzz of Grassmarket and an ensemble of bars and eats just 100 meters away.
Prices start from $20.37 for a dorm and $96.94 for a private room.
Breakfast
City Tours
Board Games
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
We've got your back when it comes to finding a great hostel location in Edinburgh. We've gone ahead and mapped out all the hostels for you so you can get a good idea of where they're all at. This map will make your life so much easier!
Hostel Haven: Choose Your Character
| 👨👩 Youth Hostel: | |
| 🏆 Overall Best Hostel: | |
| 🤹 Solo-Traveler: | |
| 🎉 Party Hostel: |
Let us talk about prices. Here is a graph showing you average prices for a bed in a dorm and for a private room. Simply mouse-over to see rates for each month.
Prices can vary a lot, especially on high-season, weekends, and special holidays such as New Years Eve.
Still not sure? Pick this!
This is the overall best rated hostel in Haystack Hostels. The overall rating is 8.7. You cannot go wrong here.
It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.
The price for a dorm at Haystack Hostels starts from $16.44.
FAQ about Edinburgh Hostels
We've collected the most common questions for hostels in Edinburgh. The more you know, the better you can plan with confidence and ease, right?
Welcome to Hostelz.com, your reliable gateway to finding the best prices for hostels worldwide! Our platform allows you to compare prices from major booking portals, saving you valuable time and money in the process.
Rest assured, there are no hidden costs or fees - our services are completely free for you to use. We take pride in maintaining transparent and unbiased pricing information, and we never manipulate prices or rates.
So go ahead and start comparing prices and availability for all hostels in Edinburgh with us!
Looking for hostels in a special neighborhood or near a popular landmark? Check out our special guides:
Hostelz.com is your #1 hostel guide to find the best prices for every single hostel worldwide. We show you all prices and hostels at a glance - save money by using the right booking platform.
Want to stay Flexible with your Bookings?
Hostelworld.com offers flexible bookings for many hostels.
Travel Cheaper, Travel Longer
Get access to exclusive hostel content
Unlock your Hostel Account to Freedom!
Sign up with Hostelz.com and get access to exclusive hostel content and much more.
Sharing Cookies with Hostelz.com 🍪
We use cookies to make your online journey better. They help us to improve Hostelz for you, ensuring your digital journey is as epic as your real one.
