Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

Housed in a striking historic building with its entrance directly on the Royal Mile and a turret on the side, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh is decidedly modern inside. Some of the architectural elements of the original building have been kept -- including the rib vaulted hallways and huge, arched windows -- but the interior design falls squarely into this era. The lobby, outfitted in off-white tiles and black walls, is a tad impersonal and chain-like, but other common areas feel more inviting, with an eye-catching combination of purple, red, raspberry, and dark-gray hues, ample comfortable seating, and warm lights. The hotel offers family-, business- and couple-friendly amenities in equal parts, and the vibe is upbeat but relaxing. Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen opens directly onto the street, drawing guests and non-guests alike. It was quiet for lunch during our visit, with just a few business travelers on computers and a couple having a bite, but the atmosphere became busier later in the afternoon, especially at tea time, as the bar is known among locals and visitors for its great (and casual) afternoon tea service. Rates at the Radisson Blu are competitive, especially for an upscale hotel located directly on Edinburgh’s most famous street, but there are many alternatives in the area for travelers seeking something cheaper. The Ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile is a great value option with stylish interiors and comfortable rooms, though there is no gym or spa on-site. For about the same price as the Ibis, the Stay Edinburgh City Apartments – Royal Mile offers beautiful one and two-bedroom apartments with kitchens and living rooms. The stately Scotsman Hotel is another great upmarket option in the area, though room quality is inconsistent.  

The Radisson Blu is located right on the Royal Mile, a gorgeous historic street that is the heart of the Old Town. The street is lined with beautiful buildings, some dating back to Medieval times, and tons of shops selling traditional Scottish clothes and souvenirs. Though 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 within a short stroll from the hotel. Other top sights -- including Calton Hill, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Scott Monument -- plus great shopping along Princes Street, are within a 15-minute walk of the Radisson Blu, as is Waverley train station and airport buses and trams. It takes about 25 minutes to get to the airport by car. 

The Radisson Blu has 238 rooms, all decorated in a stylish gray palette with metal and white accents. Big mural paintings of local landmarks in black and white give rooms lots of character, while clean lines, mod chairs, recessed lighting, and patterned bed runners create a modern look. Across the board, rooms come with the same great amenities, including pillow menus, comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and USB ports by the desk, but lower-tier rooms lack mini-fridges. Upgrading to a Business Class Room or higher comes with a few nice perks, such as Nespresso machines, robes and slippers, and free buffet breakfast. Junior Suite and Suite guests also get free minibar items, all replenished daily. Bathrooms, which are done up in a dark-brown palette, are clean and appealing, with wood paneling, round sinks, and shower/tub combos. All rooms are stocked with The Works toiletries, as well as with hairdryers, an array of towels, and light-up magnifying mirrors. Though noise is rarely an issue, light sleepers may want to request a room in the back, as the Royal Mile is a busy street. The best views, however, can be had from units facing that side of the building.  

All the expected wellness and dining facilities of a four-pearl property are found here. Located off the reception, Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen is the hotel’s main restaurant. It is open until late at night and offers an all-day, tasty international menu, as well as cocktails and a popular afternoon tea service. A varied, quality breakfast buffet is served daily in a large dining room below the lobby level, but it is an extra fee for guests staying in Standard and Superior Rooms. Adjacent to the breakfast room is the wellness center, complete with a small but well-equipped gym, a small heated indoor pool, and a spa with three treatment rooms, a sauna, and a steam room. There are also eight meeting rooms and a small business center. On-site parking is available for a fee, and there are six electric car charging stations that guests can use for free.