Better than your usual Hostel in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is basically backpacker heaven—walkable streets, epic free viewpoints, friendly pubs, and that magic feeling that any moment could turn into a great story. It’s the kind of city where plans stretch, conversations spark out of nowhere, and you meet people you’ll want to stay connected with long after you leave.

At MEININGER Hotels, you’re right in the middle of the action: just a short walk from your next adventure, whether it’s a sunrise hike, a late-night gig, or a spontaneous day trip. You get the social energy you’d expect from a hostel in Edinburgh, but with way more comfort and convenient perks. Think spacious dorms with private bathrooms, secure lockers, delicious breakfast, a fully equipped guest kitchen, and plenty of fun vibes to make your stay unforgettable.

Free WiFi
Always stay connected

Central location
Find us tucked into city centers

Free towels & linen
You'll be looking fresh

En-suite bathrooms
Hello, privacy!

24h reception
We've got your back 24/7

Laid-back vibes
Kiss stress goodbye

Game zone
Let the fun begin

Guest kitchen
Free your inner chef

Luggage room & lockers
For worry-free stays

How to book your bed:

Choose your travel dates

Book your bed in one of our dorms by using the "shared rooms" filter

Find the best room type for you (female, mixed, big, or small) & pick one of our rates

Select your extras & complete your reservation

Things that'll make you smile: all MEININGER dorms have an en-suite bathroom & lockers. Wowed, yet?

Book your bed now

Green backpack suitable for backpackers booking a dorm stay at MEININGER Hotels

Your Edinburgh backpacking trip. Your to-do list

Edinburgh is a total win for budget travelers like you! Free museums, epic viewpoints, and super walkable streets mean you can spend your days exploring without draining your wallet. And the best part? You meet cool people everywhere: in cafés, on hikes, even while waiting for that perfect castle photo. If you’re an Edinburgh backpacker looking for a comfy, affordable place to crash, MEININGER Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket has your back. It’s friendly, relaxed, and close to all the good stuff.

Edinburgh has this easy charm that just pulls you in. You’ve got medieval streets, elegant Georgian homes, cozy pubs, and so much culture packed into one walkable city. The Old Town and New Town are both UNESCO sites, and everywhere you wander there’s something worth stopping for: a tiny lane, a leafy square, or that perfect view of the castle sitting proudly on its rock.

One of the best things about Edinburgh is how simple it is to get around. You can go from the Royal Mile to Princes Street Gardens or hike up Arthur’s Seat for those amazing views, all in one relaxed day. The city is full of museums, markets, cafés, and friendly pubs, and when festival season hits in August, it feels like the whole place comes alive. December is just as magical with Christmas markets and Hogmanay lighting up the city.

You’ll find our hotel in Haymarket, a lively and super convenient spot just west of the center. We're super close to everything: the EICC, Usher Hall, Dean Village, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art are all an easy walk away. Plus, Haymarket Station is right there, so getting to the airport or hopping on a tram or train is a breeze.

If you’re looking for Edinburgh hotels that feel friendly, relaxed, and comfortable (or you just like staying somewhere cool and budget-friendly), well... we hate bragging but our central hotel in Edinburgh is the perfect place to start your adventures.

Edinburgh Haymarket

Edinburgh Haymarket

Edinburgh Haymarket

Edinburgh Haymarket

Edinburgh Haymarket

Edinburgh Haymarket

Where is the best place to stay in Edinburgh for backpackers?

Haymarket is one of the best areas for backpackers in Edinburgh. It’s lively, affordable, and super easy to get around, with trains, trams, buses, and plenty of pubs right on your doorstep. You can walk into the center in no time, meet fellow travelers, and still have a calm place to come back to.

What are the best hostels in Edinburgh for solo travelers?

If you want the social vibe without giving up comfort, MEININGER Edinburgh Haymarket is the sweet spot. Budget-friendly, central, cozy, and full of spaces where meeting people feels natural. Think hostel energy, hotel comfort. We get you.

What are the best things to do in Edinburgh for backpackers?

Backpackers will find plenty to do in Edinburgh without stretching their budget. Hike up Arthur’s Seat for amazing views, explore the city’s many free museums, and wander through the Old Town’s hidden closes. Dean Village is perfect for a quiet walk, and free walking tours are a great way to learn the city’s stories while meeting other travelers.

What is the nightlife like in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh’s nightlife is fun, easygoing, and full of variety. You’ll find cozy pubs for a quiet pint, lively bars with great live music, comedy spots as well as clubs. The best part? All these hotspots are easy to reach from the top hostels in Edinburgh, so your night out is never far from your comfy bed!

What types of amenities does MEININGER Hotels offer backpackers at their hotel in Edinburgh?

You’ll get fast Wi-Fi, a fully equipped guest kitchen, laundry facilities, and personal lockers for peace of mind. There are plenty of social spaces to hang out and meet other travelers, plus comfy rooms that give you a solid night’s sleep after a day of exploring.

How far is the MEININGER hotel for backpackers from the main attractions in Edinburgh?

Most of Edinburgh’s main sights are just 15–25 minutes on foot from MEININGER Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket. You can walk to the Castle, Princes Street, Dean Village, and several museums without needing transport. And if you’re heading somewhere a bit further, trams and buses are right outside the door, making it super easy to explore the whole city.