Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront by IHG

The staff were super friendly and helpful throughout our stay, and public transport made it easy to get into Edinburgh from this affordable hotel outside the centre. It's a solid budget choice if saving money matters. The property feels dated, though, and could use a deep clean and general modernization. Our fold-out sofa bed was quite uncomfortable. The room's automatic door was noisy too, and we could hear it slam through the thin walls whenever the neighbours used it. For a short stay, it's good value if central location and modern comfort aren't priorities.

The breakfast was delicious and the service great. The hotel felt welcoming, and the staff were hospitable, especially Carmen, who is a 10/10 manager. Our room was spacious and bright, clean, modern, and well maintained, with the necessary amenities. It's an easy connection to the city centre, about 20 minutes by tram. I'd definitely come back. R

The staff were super friendly and the hotel was good value for money, but it needs some touchups. Cleanliness, maintenance, and general upkeep could all be better. I mostly skipped breakfast, which turned out to be a good call: the food was often not hot, and the selection was limited and mass produced. Getting around was easy. I took the tram directly from the airport and reached the hotel in under an hour. It's right by the Ocean Terminal waterfront, with good tram and bus access. The place gets busy, so expect to wait for the elevator, especially in the morning or at checkout. I would consider returning, but would insist on a top-floor room for noise and choose one closer to the elevator, as I did this time. If you're after luxury, another IHG location might suit you better.

For a budget hotel, this deserves its five stars. The team were welcoming, helpful, and efficient, and Allan is a real credit to the hotel industry. The place was clean and well maintained. Our room and the WiFi were both good. Shops are nearby, and local pubs and restaurants are an easy walk away. The hotel is right beside the Royal Yacht Britannia and a tram stop with trams into Edinburgh every few minutes.