Some of the best hotels in Scotland exist outside of the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow—but that’s not to say you can’t find somewhere exceptional to stay wherever you wish to lay your head across the country. Whether you’re looking for a cosmopolitan city break or hoping to explore Scotland’s stunning coastline on the road trip of a lifetime, there’s somewhere stunning for any type of traveler.
The key to finding the best Scottish hotel for you is to consider what your trip priorities are—will you be seeking out memorable cocktails, unique shops, and a buzzy atmosphere, or are you more into long walks, scenic views, and cozy evenings in front of a fire? Whatever your decision, we’re confident our picks of the best hotels in Scotland will inspire the trip of a lifetime. Scroll through for our favorites, in no particular order. Alternatively, visit our edit of the best Airbnbs in Scotland, or, more specifically, the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh, to ensure you’re planning a memorable stay.
How we choose the best hotels in Scotland:
Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing properties, our editors consider both luxury hotels and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location, and warm service—as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.
