Holiday Inn Express Picardy Place Edinburgh Scotland

So, you’re heading to Edinburgh, huh? Brilliant choice. You’re about to step into a city that’s basically a giant, beautiful, historic pub with a castle on top. But you need a place to crash, right? Enter the Holiday Inn Express at Picardy Place.

Right in the Thick of It

Let’s talk location, because this one is a cheat code. You’re practically on the doorstep of the Edinburgh Playhouse. And the Omni Centre? Literally a two-minute stumble—I mean, walk.

Hop on a bus? You don’t even need to. The city centre is a ten-minute stroll through some seriously pretty streets. You’re central, but not so central that you’re being woken up by bagpipes at 3 AM. Usually.

The Room: Surprisingly Snazzy

I know, I know. It’s a Holiday Inn Express. You’re probably picturing beige carpets and a sad little lamp. Stop that. This one is actually pretty modern. Clean lines, fresh bedding, and a TV that actually works.

The bathroom is a triumph of efficiency. It’s small, sure, but the shower pressure is vicious—in a good way. You’ll feel like you’re being power-washed after a long day of walking up Edinburgh’s ridiculous hills.

Heads up: Some rooms have views of a brick wall. But the blackout curtains are thick enough to make you forget if it’s day or night. Perfect for recovering from one too many wee drams of whisky.

The Breakfast: A Free-for-All (Literally)

Breakfast is included. Say it louder for the people in the back: Included! It’s not a five-star buffet, but it’s a solid B- in the best way. You get pastries, cereal, toast, and DIY waffles.

Oh, and the hot items. Scrambled eggs that are slightly powdery? Check. Sausages that taste like they’ve been on a journey? Check. But it’s hot, it’s free, and you can stack a plate like you’re preparing for hibernation.

Express Holiday Inn Edinburgh, Scotland

Pro tip: Go early. Otherwise, you’re fighting a pack of German tourists for the last croissant. I’ve seen it. It’s not pretty. But it’s funny after your third coffee.

The Staff: Actually Friendly

Let’s be real: hotel staff can be either robots or miracle workers. Here, they lean toward the miracle workers. The guy at check-in gave me a genuinely good recommendation for a pub around the corner.

They don’t act like you’re bothering them when you ask for extra towels. That might sound like a low bar, but you’d be surprised how many hotels trip over it. This one doesn’t.

What’s Nearby? (Beyond the Obvious)

You’re steps from the Edinburgh Playhouse. If a big show is on, you can roll out of bed and into your seat in five minutes. No expensive taxis required. That alone is worth the room rate.

Fancy a walk? Arthur’s Seat is about 20 minutes away. Just be prepared to feel like a mountain goat by the time you get to the top. But the view? Legitimately breathtaking. Worth every puff and wheeze.

And the pubs. Oh, the pubs. There’s a place called The Basement down the street that does a mean burger and an even meaner beer list. Go there. You can thank me later.

Express Holiday Inn Edinburgh, Scotland accommodation

The Quirks (Because Nothing’s Perfect)

Alright, honesty hour. The elevator is slow. Like, glacially slow. If you’re on the fifth floor, you might age a little waiting for it. Take the stairs—it’s good for your revenge against all that breakfast.

Also, the insulation is… let’s say “Scottish.” You might hear the family next door discussing their itinerary at 7 AM. But honestly? Earplugs are a tenner at the corner shop. Problem solved.

And the lobby can feel a bit like a school canteen during breakfast rush. But it’s all over by 9:30 AM. Patience, young grasshopper.

Verdict? A Solid Yes

Is it the Ritz? No. Is it a Ritz cracker? No. But it’s a smart, clean, well-located basecamp for your Edinburgh adventure. You’re not spending your holiday in the hotel, anyway. You’re out exploring cobblestones and eating haggis, right?

The Holiday Inn Express Picardy Place doesn’t try to be fancy. It just works. It’s the reliable friend who always has a spare key and a kettle ready. That’s golden.

So, next time you’re booking a trip to Edinburgh, give it a look. Your wallet will thank you. Your feet will thank you. And that free breakfast? It’ll fuel your conquest of the Royal Mile. Go on. Book it. You deserve a holiday that doesn’t start with a housing crisis.