Apartment

Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat

Photo gallery for Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat

A breakfast tray with cups, a teapot, and a sugar bowl on a wooden table by a window with a view of a garden and buildings.
A living room with a fireplace, a television, a dining table with chairs, and a bookshelf.
A neatly made bed with a brown blanket, two bedside lamps, a framed picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.
A historic building with multiple windows and a stone wall in front.
A church with a traditional architectural style, featuring a central dome and arched windows.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near University of Edinburgh

Popular amenities

  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Washing machine
  • Fireplace
  • Non-smoking
  • Microwave

Explore the area

View map
Edinburgh
  • Place, University of Edinburgh
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Grassmarket
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Royal Mile
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Edinburgh (EDI)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Living room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Number of living rooms

Add dates for prices

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About the area

Edinburgh

Located in Edinburgh, this apartment is in the city centre. Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are notable landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Grassmarket and George Street. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Edinburgh International Conference Centre or Murrayfield Stadium.
View more Apartments in EdinburghOpens in a new window
Map
Edinburgh

What's nearby

  • National Museum of Scotland - 1 min walk - 0.2 km
  • University of Edinburgh - 1 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Grassmarket - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Royal Mile - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Edinburgh Castle - 9 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

  • Edinburgh Waverley Station - 11 min walk
  • Princes Street Tram Stop - 12 min walk
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Greyfriars Bobby's Bar - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪The Elephant House - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Frankenstein - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Nando's - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Sandy Bell's - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat?

As of 5 November 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat on 5 January 2027 start from NZ$1,983, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-out at Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Greyfriars: Quiet Edinburgh city centre retreat located?

Located in Edinburgh City Centre, this apartment building is steps away from MacEwan Hall and University of Edinburgh. Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are also within 10 minutes. Princes Street Tram Stop is 12 minutes by foot and St Andrew Square Tram Stop is 14 minutes.

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 59 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 59 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 59 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 59 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I would rent again. The location was really great. This is Old Town, we had a car, and yet there was reasonablely priced indoor parking.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely loved this place! The location was PERFECT. Nothing beat morning coffee looking out the window over the cemetery lol. Loved my stay so much!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay here in October--great walkable location in the Old Town, comfortable, cozy flat with all the essentials (including linens), and a lovely view overlooking Greyfriars. It is up a flight of steps. Lots of guidebooks on the shelf, and restaurants and stores nearby. A nice base for exploring Edinburgh.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were so helpful at check in and with a few questions. As many will tell you Edinburgh flats have steep narrow stairs with this one on the 3rd floor but easy to navigate. However, the city is casual so don’t overpack. This location is absolutely the best looking out on Greatfriars Kirk but extremely quiet. Had everything we needed and washing clothes was easy. 5-10 minutes walk to everything you’ll want to see.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 September 2026
Thanks for taking the time to write a review, and we're pleased to hearthat you enjoyed to central and quiet location at Greyfriars. Most historical buildings in Edinburgh do not have an option to install an elevator/lift, so the staircases are inevitable. This property is two flights up (i.e. 2nd floor in UK terminology, and 3rd floor in US terminology)
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was in an excellent location for Old Town Edinburgh. It was very clean and satisfied all our needs for a 2 night stay. Host was very helpful in giving directions and specifics on different modes of transportation to get there. Bed and shower were very good.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pleasant, quiet neighborhood near to everything we needed. Martin was excellent with communication throughout the entire process. I highly recommend this unit.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Stay

Great location! Felt like home :)
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Greyfrier’s is Wonderful

Cozy, convenient, and quiet.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

The location is perfect for exploring the city. However, if you have a big luggage with you, it might not be easy to access to the apartment as there is no lift. In general, we recommend this apartment.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2024
Thanks for taking the time to write a review and we're glad to hear that you recommend the apartment. The accommodation is on the second floor, so two flights of stairs up. Because of the historical nature of the building a lift/elevator isn't available. We'd be pleased to welcome again if you come Edinburgh for another visit.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, amazing flat!

This flat had everything a friend and I needed for a week long stay in Edinburgh. The location truly could not be beat, and the price was by far the best for a 1 bedroom flat with a pullout couch across all vacation rental websites. We would stay here again in a heartbeat!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thoughtful proprietor, great location

We appreciated the thoughtfulness of the proprietor in providing small touches, like tea and coffee, that made it easy to settle in. The apartment is quiet despite being located in a pleasantly bustling student neighborhood. It proved an excellent venue for touring Edinburgh by foot.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place, amazing location especially if visiting the university.

Excellent location on border between University and more touristy bit of the city. Basically across from the National Museum.It's a about 30m up a what at late night would look like a slightly sketchy alley (but that just also has university facilities in the alley, so not that sketchy). So nice an quiet but still very close to main street.If you open any window you can hear the tour talks in the Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely getaway

Incredibly well located property....close to the hustle and bustle of Old Town without the noise. Communication with managers was fantastic, even when we hit a roadblock (due to our arriving flight being cancelled). Check in process was extremely easy, with detailed instructions that left no room for error.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good flat, great location

Good flat: comfortable and fabulous location within walking distance to just about everything. Clear instructions for how to use or access flat's amenities.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was in an excellent location, close to Edinburgh castle and the royal mile. Check in process and communication with property manager was easy and straight forward. Bed was extremely comfortable. Otherwise, only one comfortable piece of furniture in the flat (couch in TV room). IKEA chair looked like it was in desperate need of a cleaning.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice location for visiting Edinburgh Old Town

Overall we found the property to be as posted, and the owner was very responsive to any questions we had. The location was excellent for exploring Edinburgh's Old Town. Our suggestions to the owner included fixing broken lamps and replacing some of the more tired essentials like pillows and tea towels.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 September 2022
Thanks for taking the time to write a review. Sorry that the bulb on one of the bedside lamps had blown; we have now replaced that, and we have also reminded to cleaner to refresh the tea towels at each changeover. Glad to hear that you were pleased with the central location for the Old Town.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location.

The flat was in an amazing location - easy walking to food and sites. Everything was clean and as expected from the listing. Wifi was spotty - sometimes it was great, other times, we couldn't get a signal. The external door lock was tricky at first, but found that if you wiggle the key up and down (like you see lock pickers do on t.v.), it works and turns (clockwise) very easily. Make sure you tour the cemetary that the flat overlooks.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A lovely flat in a great location.

I was able to get in early and leave my luggage, then explore the neighborhood while the apartment was cleaned. I brought my own shampoo, which was needed, otherwise everything was there that I needed, including coffee! The information folder was very helpful. The living room was so pleasant, and I spent many relaxing hours there morning and evening, and the view over Greyfriar’s Kirk was beautiful. The bed was comfortable and cozy. I would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good location

we stayed 5 nights at Greyfriers Apt. It was in a good location in Old Town. The only thing I would change would be the pillows, very flat. Also, this lights in the stairway did not work, which made it difficult when dark. And no lift, which would have been nice to know beforehand. Other wise it was a really good place.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mrs Marne Taylor

The flat was convenient to restaurants, grocers,bus, and tourist sites. The flat had a sizable bedroom with a comfy mattress and the living room had a nice couch and TV. We also were grateful to have a washer in the kitchen as well as stove and microwave. We could see some of the tours of the cemetery outside our window which added to the stay. The only inconvenience were the stairs which were unlit and had no rails.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

City Centre Ap’t

Location can’t be beat. Ap’t is characterful. We found the bed to be very comfortable. Owner MUST supply a new key to building front door. Was brutal trying to get key to work. Had issue with boiler dying near end of trip; however Martin (manager) was fantastic in taking care of us. He was outstanding in his attentiveness & responsiveness. Recommend !
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2023
Thanks for taking the time to write a review. Glad to hear you enjoyed he location. We've re-cut the key to the door at ground level so that it's easier to use. We were sorry that the boiler was not working properly at the end of your stay but this has now been repaired. Glad to know that despite the problems you were content with our attentiveness and response. Thanks again.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

An October Holiday

This location was ideal for all of the activities we wanted to do in Edinburgh. Close to great restaurants and all the tourist attractions on the Royal Mile. The space was large and completely private. We felt it was ours alone for the week and thoroughly enjoyed it. The one downfall was the front door lock to the building. It's a shared door and the only access from the outside to the whole building, and the lock was incredibly difficult to manage. We would spend 5 minutes each night fiddling with the key in the lock until it finally opened. But once inside everything was what we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 November 2023
Thanks for taking the time to write a review, and we're glad to hear you enjoyed the apartment and location. We have updated the guest information regarding the key for the shared door so that it's clearer how to use the key to ensure the door opens ok. We hope to be able to host you again.
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy
The good: Prop mgr was friendly, responsive and informative. Helped resolve a boiler issue quickly and easily. Location was stellar - very easy to walk to all the old-town sights, restaurants, bars. And you literally look out onto the Greyfriars grounds which was cool.Constructive criticism: Fireplace did not work (gas). Be sure to confirm it is working before you book. Note to prop mgr: description should NOT mention FP unless it is working (it was easily determined to not be working) or easily fixed. Plates were greasy - seems like they were not checked for cleanliness by the cleaners. There were no paper towels nor any dishtowels. The teapot had old, moldy tea still in the pot - yuck! As long as these things are addressed (just list them for the contact person so they can ensure it), then you will enjoy this place. :-)
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It's the perfect location to see Edinburgh!!

This flat was perfectly located to see anything on the Royal Mile! Edinburgh Castle was less than 15 minutes to walk, Palace of Holyroodhouse on the other side of the Royal Mile took a little longer but still walkable. There are PLENTY of taxis to take you places if walking is not your thing plus the bus system was great. The Meadows was just a walk away and there are SO MANY places to eat for any cuisine that you want. And I have never been in communication with a VRBO owner as I did with Martin. He always replied back to me but he also gave us information about our stay, places to see, etc. in his welcome email. We used WhatsApp to communication as well. Very good experience with Martin! For those that have not traveled to these very old cities, please know that the buildings are older and tent to be smaller. Martin's flat was clean, well supplied, etc. but, especially for those first time visitors, it's different. And Edinburgh is NOT a flat city so there is a lot of walking up and down. We averaged 7-10 miles a day AND averaged walking up 37 floors according to my fitbit. The first 2 days were tough but then we got used to it. SO WORTH IT TOO! Enjoy!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding location/nice unit

This is a very nice property located in an ideal location for walking to most of Edinburgh. One bedroom, which was entirely comfortable, including the bed. The living room,/kitchen area were certainly appropriate for what we wanted and needed. The bathroom was functional, but quite small. There is no sharing the sink or shower with another. It is limited to one at a time. Our only issue was that the property was not ready for us when we arrived at a little after 5 in the afternoon. The host does not meet you (pet peeve of mine), but rather you get a lockbox combination just before your arrival. So, we get there, find the flat and come into dirty sheets and towels, trash in the bins. I used WhatsApp to contact the host and he was apologetic and prompt in resolving the issue. Within 30 minutes or so there was someone there to clean the room. She was also very apologetic and said that she would be finished quickly. We went to an early dinner and when we returned the apartment was clean. Other than that, the unit was nice. We walked everywhere. Good mostly tourist oriented restaurants within a few blocks.. Some really excellent local neighborhood restaurants a few blocks farther. It is right below the Castle (make reservations!!!!). We were able to walk the Royal Mile, to the Palace of Holyrood House, the train station (without bags) etc. If we were coming back to Edinburgh, this is definitely a unit to consider again
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 August 2022
Thanks for taking the time to write a review, which is much appreciated. We're glad to hear that you enjoyed the apartment, and sorry that it was not prepared for you on arrival. Lynda was unexpectedly delayed on that afternoon, but was able to reach the apartment quickly. We would be happy to meet guests on arrival by request, but we have found that many guests request a secure box because there is then no pressure to arrive at a specific time, and if a train/plane is delayed then one has peace of mind that the keys are available later. If you re-book please ask us to meet you and we will happily oblige. It's good to hear that you enjoyed walking everywhere from this central location.
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