Ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile

Fully renovated in the mid-2010s, the Ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile feels modern and fresh. Interiors are mostly straightforward but stylish both in common spaces and rooms, thanks to big mural photos throughout, clean lines, and a bold color scheme that combines dark-gray, neutral, and red hues. The vibe is casual and friendly, and convenience and comfort take precedence over the traditional sense of service. A long, low desk is all there is in the way of a reception, and young staff dressed in red shirts and sneakers approach guests with a tablet for check-in. The rest of the lobby area is occupied by the bar, which is popular with guests for evening drinks and middle-of-the-day breaks. There is nothing else in the way of amenities (not even a full restaurant), but the hotel’s central location, well-equipped rooms, and competitive rates make it a popular pick among couples and solo travelers.

While this Ibis is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers wanting to stay in the center, sister property Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge is another option worth considering, with slightly lower rates, similarly comfortable rooms, and a full restaurant. In this price range, the Stay Edinburgh City Apartments – Royal Mile is a great alternative for those wanting the conveniences of apartment living in the city center without breaking the bank. Couples wanting something more traditional and elegant may prefer the Principal Edinburgh George Street.  

This Ibis is located on Hunter Square, a cute, small plaza opening right onto the historic Royal Mile and the heart of the Old Town. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful buildings (some dating back to Medieval times), many restaurants and bars, and tons of shops selling traditional Scottish clothes and souvenirs. Though highly touristy, the Royal Mile still feels quaint, and is home to must-see attractions such as St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace, each just a short stroll from the hotel. Other top sights -- including Calton Hill, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Scott Monument -- as well as great shopping along Princes Street, are all within a 15-minute walk of the Ibis, as is Waverley Station and airport buses and trams. It takes about 25 minutes to get to the airport by car. 

The hotel’s 99 rooms are simple but modern, with a rather stylish red, gray, and white color scheme, blond-wood furniture with clean lines, and warm lighting. Quirky details such as headboards made of large close-up photos of wool, and wallpaper with chalkboard-style drawings give rooms a fun, casual feel, while bedside lamps and carpets make them cozy. Though overall straightforward, rooms are outfitted with an array of up-to-date amenities, including USB ports and free, reliable Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with international channels. Beds are plush and comfortable, with thick pillow-top mattresses and two pillows (and an additional one in the closet). All rooms come equipped with hairdryers and electric kettles alongside free tea, instant coffee, and cookies (all replenished daily free of charge), but safes are only available on request, and mini-fridges are not provided. Bathrooms are compact, simple, and spotless, equipped with walk-in showers, just about enough counter space for a couple of large toiletries bags, and backlit mirrors. Big bath towels and three-in-one toiletries are provided, but hand towels are not, which is common in Ibis properties. 

Although our second-floor room seemed to have decent soundproofing (we could hear the buses running along North Bridge, and some noise from the bars across the street, but it was mostly fine as it was a weekday), many guests have complained that street-facing rooms can pick up noise, especially on weekends, when the area fills with locals and tourists until the wee hours. 

Continental and full Scottish breakfast are served daily in a roomy, contemporary space off the lobby. The continental option includes bread, cereal, yogurt, pastries, and fresh fruit, while the cooked one offers eggs, toast, beans, sausages, and bacon, among a few other hot options. Breakfast is not included in the standard rate. The adjacent lobby bar serves hot and cold drinks around the clock, along with tasty, freshly made pizzas and salads. Guests can also request these to be delivered to the room for a fee. The hotel has a 24-hour ironing room, and dry-cleaning services are available for an additional fee.