Top reasons to visit Grassmarket
- Historic Atmosphere: Stroll along cobbled streets and soak in the historic charm of Grassmarket, with its vibrant culture and friendly locals.
- Edinburgh Castle Views: Enjoy stunning views of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a short walk from Grassmarket.
- Saturday Market: Explore the lively Saturday market featuring local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food stalls.
- Cultural Attractions: Discover family-friendly museums and galleries that enrich your experience in this historic area.
- Convenient Accommodation: Stay at inviting hotels and guesthouses that cater to diverse needs, making it a perfect base for exploration.
Find great hotels near Grassmarket
Experience the vibrant charm of Grassmarket in Edinburgh with a stay at one of its inviting hotels or guesthouses. Catering to diverse needs, these accommodations offer LGBTQIA-friendly services, pet-friendly options, and amenities for business travellers. Whether you choose the Apex Grassmarket Hotel or another local gem, you’ll find the perfect base to explore this historic area.
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Nestled in the vibrant Grassmarket area, the 4-star Apex Grassmarket Hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This eco-certified property is ideal for those seeking a business-friendly stay while being environmentally conscious. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, a fitness centre, and spacious rooms with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability ensures a unique blend of comfort and eco-friendliness, making it a distinctive choice for conscientious travellers.
- ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: Located a mere 644m from Grassmarket, the 3-star ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile has garnered a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This eco-certified establishment welcomes pets, making it a great choice for animal lovers. The hotel features modern rooms equipped with essential amenities, a bar, and a 24-hour snack service. With its pet-friendly policies and eco-conscious practices, the ibis offers a relaxed atmosphere for those travelling with furry companions in tow.
- Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: Situated 966m from Grassmarket, the 4-star Apex Waterloo Place Hotel enjoys an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This family-oriented and eco-certified hotel features a full-service spa, including treatment rooms and a sauna, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The hotel also provides child-friendly amenities, including breakfast options tailored for younger guests. Its elegant rooms and top-notch facilities create a serene retreat for families and individuals alike, ensuring a memorable stay in Edinburgh.
Where to stay near Grassmarket
Grassmarket, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, offers an enchanting blend of history and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets, discovering family-friendly attractions and engaging with the friendly locals. This central location serves as a gateway to explore nearby neighbourhoods, where romantic spots and historical landmarks abound, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers seeking a unique Scottish experience.
- Edinburgh: As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis that offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. Grassmarket is nestled within this dynamic city, known for its stunning architecture and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The city welcomes visitors year-round, with peak seasons from July to September. Travellers can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, from theatre performances to shopping in bustling areas. Explore historic streets and enjoy the local gastronomy, making Edinburgh a must-visit for culture enthusiasts and families alike.
- Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is a historic neighbourhood that encapsulates the essence of the city’s past. Located adjacent to Grassmarket, this area is famed for its medieval streets and buildings that tell stories of centuries gone by. Visitors are drawn here for its cultural offerings, including theatres, shops, and educational venues. The peak visiting months are from April through to July, drawing families and culture seekers to its vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the blend of modern amenities and historic charm as you wander through its narrow lanes and discover local events.
- Edinburgh City Centre: Just 644m from Grassmarket, Edinburgh City Centre is the heartbeat of the city, bustling with energy and life. This neighbourhood peaks in visitor numbers during the summer months, offering a plethora of cultural experiences, shopping opportunities, and theatres. The iconic landmarks and streets, such as the Scott Monument and Princes Street, provide a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Families and city-themed travellers will find it easy to navigate this area, making it an ideal base for experiencing the best of Edinburgh.
Things to do near Grassmarket
Shopping
In Grassmarket, you can find charming shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, along with local crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the St James Quarter, around 2km away, featuring a mix of high street and designer stores in a modern shopping environment.
Recreation
The Grassmarket area offers a variety of wellness retreats, including yoga studios with tranquil settings and meditation spaces that encourage relaxation. Nearby, you can explore scenic walking paths and enjoy local parks, providing a peaceful backdrop for mindfulness and rejuvenation amidst the vibrant city life.
Adventure
For an adrenaline rush, visit Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 29km from Grassmarket. Experience the thrill of motor racing, where you can watch exhilarating events or even take part in driving experiences, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of adventure.
Nightlife
The Grassmarket offers a vibrant nightlife with an array of pubs and bars. Enjoy a lively atmosphere at the Banshee Labyrinth, known for its quirky charm, or savour a local brew at the Last Drop Inn, steeped in history and character.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Grassmarket
To save money on your visit to Grassmarket, plan your trip between January and March for lower accommodation rates. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best prices, particularly on Tuesdays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Consider using Expedia for last-minute deals and package savings that combine flights, hotels, and activities. For transport, walking is an excellent way to explore the compact area. Don't forget to check for free activities and utilise the price filters on booking sites to find the best deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Grassmarket are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Grassmarket about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Grassmarket is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Grassmarket is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Grassmarket hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Grassmarket
In Grassmarket, Edinburgh, visitors can immerse themselves in culture by exploring the iconic street, with its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm. Notable attractions include the nearby Edinburgh Castle, which offers stunning views of the old town. Families can enjoy the local museums and galleries, making it a perfect spot for a rich and engaging experience. Don't miss the short strolls around Grassmarket that showcase its unique character and history.
- Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the skyline, Edinburgh Castle offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland's history. Its dramatic architecture and stunning views create a romantic atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its rich cultural heritage and intriguing tales of royalty.
- Princes Street: A bustling thoroughfare, Princes Street is renowned for its vibrant city vibes and shopping opportunities. With a mix of high-street brands and local boutiques, it serves as the perfect place to experience Edinburgh’s lively urban pulse.
- Princes Street Gardens: Nestled in the heart of the city, Princes Street Gardens provide a serene escape with lush greenery and picturesque views of the castle. This urban park is ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat amidst the bustling city.
Best time to go to Grassmarket
The best time to visit Grassmarket is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Grassmarket
Flying into Grassmarket, EDInburgh is convenient, with the nearest major airport being Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 10km away. Nearby hotel options iNCLude the 5-star Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa and the 5.5-star Crescent House, both approximately 11km from the airport. For those considering GLAsgow Airport (GLA), situated 77km from Grassmarket, the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa are excellent choices, 4 and 11km away respectively. Additionally, Newcastle Airport (NCL) is 138km distant, with hotels like the 4-star Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead conveniently located 10km from the airport.