HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS EDINBURGH CITY CENTRE BY IHG, Edinburgh

All rooms have air conditioning, black-out shades, a work desk with lamp, flat-screen TV with cable and premium channels, free high-speed Wi-Fi, iron and ironing board, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and hairdryer. Rooms on the back of the hotel tend to be quieter, while those in the 'new wing' may face another building or interior courtyard. Some rooms are in the basement or are interconnecting, so sound insulation varies. The property is older and basic in style, better suited to travellers prioritising location and practical amenities over modern decor. Rooms have no fridges, mini-bars, or in-room safes; the reception offers a safety deposit box for valuables.

Breakfast is a buffet offering scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, hash browns, tomatoes, breads, cereals, fruit, yogurt, and gluten-free alternatives on request. The Great Room serves breakfast, and the upgraded Lounge Bar offers a large selection of beers, gins and whiskies in the evening. For lunch and dinner, there is no on-site restaurant, but guests are welcome to bring takeaway food into the hotel. The Omni Centre and dozens of restaurants (Thai, Italian, Chinese, seafood, traditional Scottish) are within a minute's walk.

The hotel does not have a swimming pool, spa or fitness centre on site, but provides access to a nearby fitness centre. The lounge bar is a space to unwind after sightseeing. For leisure, the Princes Street Gardens, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (30 minutes on foot), and Arthur's Seat (20 minutes' walk) are easily reachable. There is no outdoor seating or terrace.