Hotel Indigo – Edinburgh – Princes Street, an IHG Hotel

Hotel Indigo – Edinburgh – Princes Street, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Hotel Indigo – Edinburgh – Princes Street, an IHG Hotel honestly feels like you’ve hit the jackpot for location. I mean, you’re literally on Princes Street — that’s Edinburgh’s main shopping drag — and the castle is right there looming above you. The building itself has this boutique vibe that’s way more interesting than your typical chain hotel, with local artwork and design touches that actually feel authentic rather than trying too hard.

Location & Neighborhood

You know what’s brilliant about staying here? You can walk to pretty much everything that matters in Edinburgh. The Royal Mile is a five-minute stroll, and when you want to escape the tourist crowds, Princes Street Gardens is right across the road — perfect for a morning coffee or evening wind-down. I’ve stayed in hotels further out, and honestly, the difference is night and day. This four-star spot puts you in the thick of things without the chaos of the Grassmarket area, which can get pretty rowdy at night.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in faced the castle (though not all do, so worth asking), and waking up to that view never gets old. What really impressed me was the bed — and I’m usually pretty picky about mattresses when traveling. They’ve clearly invested in quality bedding because I actually slept through the night, which doesn’t always happen in city center hotels. The design feels fresh and locally inspired without being gimmicky, with touches that reference Edinburgh’s literary heritage and cultural significance.

Breakfast & Dining

The breakfast setup here is actually quite good — they do both continental and full Scottish options, and the buffet has enough variety to keep you happy whether you’re fueling up for a day of sightseeing or just want something light. The restaurant downstairs serves decent food, though honestly, with so many great spots within walking distance, I’d probably venture out for dinner. Still, it’s handy to have the option, especially after a long day exploring the city and its many attractions.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets this place apart is how it balances being part of a reliable hotel group with genuine local character. The staff actually know the area well — they gave me tips about avoiding the crowds at the castle and pointed me toward some lesser-known whisky bars that turned out to be highlights of my trip. Plus, the location score speaks for itself — couples especially seem to love it here, probably because you can easily walk to romantic spots like Calton Hill for sunset views, then slip back for a nightcap without dealing with taxis or long walks through unfamiliar streets. The overall experience makes this hotel a standout choice for visitors.

To book a hotel in Edinburgh during Fringe Festival, visitors plan ahead to balance comedy marathons with Arthur’s Seat sunrise hikes.

Facilities