a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel

2.0 star property
Hostel with a restaurant, steps from Royal Mile

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel

Cozy accommodations feature a bunk bed and single bed, with a large window offering a view of the street outside.
Experience the charm of this historic building, featuring a traditional arched entrance and multiple windows.
Guest kitchen and amenities located nearby, including toilets, luggage storage, and lockers.
Relax in comfort with a variety of seating options and enjoy the artwork on display.
Welcome to our reception area, where a digital screen and comfortable seating await guests.

Popular amenities

  • 24/7 front desk
  • Bar
  • Pet friendly
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry

Explore the area

Map
50 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH1 1NE
  • Royal Mile
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • University of Edinburgh
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Edinburgh Castle
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Edinburgh (EDI)
    ‪19 min drive‬

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Room options

Twin Room

  • 172 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

Bed in 12-Bed Dormitory

  • 473 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Bed in 10-Bed Dormitory

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(3 reviews)
  • 279 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Bed in 8-Bed Dormitory

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(3 reviews)
  • 279 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Quadruple Room

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Quadruple Room

7.2 out of 10
Good
(10 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Family Room (2 Adults + 2 Children)

  • 194 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Beds and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

6-Bed Room (Bunk Beds Only)

  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

8-Bed Room

  • Sleeps 8
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

Single Room

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Bed in 6-Bed Dormitory

  • 279 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Triple Room

  • 194 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Twin Bed

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About the neighborhood

Edinburgh

Located in Old Town Edinburgh, a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel is adjacent to Royal Mile and within a 10-minute walk of other popular attractions like University of Edinburgh. This 132-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Royal Mile - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • University of Edinburgh - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Grassmarket - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Princes Street - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Edinburgh Castle - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

  • Edinburgh (ZXE-Edinburgh Waverly Train Station) - 5 min walk
  • St Andrew Square Tram Stop - 11 min walk
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 33 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Whiski Bar & Restaurant - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Bannerman's Bar - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Bar 50 - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The City Cafe - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Whistle Binkies - ‬3 min walk

About this property

a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel

Hostel with a restaurant, steps from Royal Mile
Guests of a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, express check-out, and a terrace. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with tours or tickets, and answer any questions about the accommodations. Additional amenities include laundry facilities, a vending machine, and an ATM.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi.

Languages

English, French, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Slovak, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Food and drink

  • Buffet breakfast available for a fee 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM on weekdays and 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM on weekends; GBP 9.90 for adults and GBP 4.95 for children
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Bar 50

Things to do

  • Bicycle storage
  • Billiards/pool table
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Vending machine
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Elevator (93 inch wide door)

More

  • 100% renewable energy
  • Annual offsets purchased for at least 10% of carbon footprint
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options
  • Water dispenser usage encouraged

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Shower

More

  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • LED lighting
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: GBP 12.00
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: GBP 12.00
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for GBP 12.00 per pet, per night
  • Dogs only
  • 1 total pets
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children stay free when using existing bedding

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately GBP 9.9 for adults and GBP 4.95 for children
  • Pet fee: GBP 12.00 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in fee: GBP 12.00 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: GBP 12.00 (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts major credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts major credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted.
  • This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Smart City Hostels Edinburgh
Smart Hostels Hostel Edinburgh City
Smart City Hostels Edinburgh Hotel Edinburgh
Smart City Hostels Edinburgh Scotland
Smart City Hostels Safestay Hostel Edinburgh
Smart City Hostels Safestay Hostel
Smart City Hostels Safestay Edinburgh
Smart City Hostels Safestay
Smart City Hostels by Safestay
Safestay Edinburgh Royal Mile Edinburgh
Smart City Hostels by Safestay
Safestay Edinburgh Royal Mile Hostel
Safestay Royal Mile Hostel
Safestay Royal Mile
Hostel/Backpacker accommodation Safestay Edinburgh Royal Mile
Safestay Edinburgh
Smart City Hostels Edinburgh
a o Edinburgh City
a o Edinburgh City Hostel
Safestay Edinburgh Royal Mile
a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

A&o Edinburgh City - Hostel offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What can I see close to a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

This hostel is situated in Old Town Edinburgh, just steps from Royal Mile, and within a 10-minute walk of Grassmarket and Princes Street. You'll also find Edinburgh Castle and George Street less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

Bicycle parking is also available for guests.

Does a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel have a casino?

No, a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Is a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel good for couples?

Couples staying at this hostel will appreciate amenities like a bar and a restaurant plus some rooms include city views.

Does a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hostel.

Does a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel serves buffet breakfast for a surcharge each morning at Bar 50.

Will a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel for a fee of GBP 12.00 per pet, per night.

Does a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hostel.

Where is the closest airport to a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

The closest major airport to a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is 8.1 mi away (33 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel?

No, you won't find rooms with balconies at a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel.

a&o Edinburgh City - Hostel Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 278 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 399 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 198 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 72 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 58 out of 1005 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Jake

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Not suitable for families

Family rooms are not very suitable. Mirrored something like a prison cell. Kids had to make their own beds as only one bed had been dressed. No facilities in the room bar the bathroom sink which is located outside the bathroom door.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Margaret

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
I saw that my opinion and satisfying DOESN'T MATTER........ what else opinion You needed?
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rajat

Traveled with group, Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really like to stay, it was really clean and the staff is really, really helpful
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Matthew

Business traveler
Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Micheal

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Rugby refuge

Very adequate while there for a rugby match. Excellent location just off the royal mile. Very safe and secure
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great hostel.

Great hostel located in the center of old city, walking distance to everything. Our family of 5 rented an entire dorm room of 4 bunk beds and it was great. Each had a private curtain to pull and had 2 private showers and toilets in the room. A little loud in terms of thin walls and noisy floor when walking, but nothing a pair of ear plugs could not fix for light sleepers. Great bar attached made for a very fun place to hang out.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Bramble

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My first solo trip, I was nervous about the concept of a hostel but a&o made it easy and made every opportunity to make available help known to me. My key card unfortunately stopped working but thankfully I only came and went once from my dorm so no real fault to place.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Liam

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Saskia

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rooms were quite modern, great place to just lay our head down. Very good price. Got towels in the room and soap. Would definitely recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Fanny

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
La estancia fue increíble, súper accesible, el staff es muy amable, súper limpio todo y es de los mejores hostales
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Quynh

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I like the area. Easy to get around to other places and very close to shopping center.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gerard

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were very good and the bar at the hostel is great. The food was lovely
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Grace

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

SHARON

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great clean facility - but noise from pub every night was very loud until the wee hours of the morning - very challenging !!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Paul

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

2/10 Terrible

Jeno

Traveled with group
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hotel decided to change our room to a worse one, due to high demand without prior notice. They say we should be grateful to get what we've got.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was perfect as a reasonably priced late booking compared to extortionate hotel prices if all you were looking for was a bed and a shower. I was lucky to get a bunk room for 4 on my own
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aldo Amador

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good experience!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Freeman, Liverpool

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Celine

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

6/10 Okay

Lakhwinder

Traveled with group
Average
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mery

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Nice cental clean accommodation

Good locations. Accommodation was clean but towels should be included.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

??????

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It's approximately 50 meters from the Royal Mile👍
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Jessica

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Cleanliness
The hotel was great especially the atmosphere. It was loud but Fine fest was alive and well so that's to be expected. No AC and the room got a little warm at times. Window didn't open very much, I imagine for safety. The staff were brilliant and helpful. Our biggest complaint was the shower. Dirty and visible black mold on the ceiling and walls.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Disliked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024