Introduction to Edinburgh: A City of History, Culture, and Opportunity

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city where centuries-old history meets vibrant modern life. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, the city center is a tapestry of cobbled streets, grand Georgian avenues, and striking contemporary architecture. The historic Royal Mile, stretching from the castle down to Holyrood Palace, is lined with traditional pubs, eclectic restaurants, and lively bars, offering an authentic taste of Scottish hospitality.

Beyond its famous landmarks, Edinburgh is celebrated for its rich cultural scene. From world-class museums and galleries to a calendar packed with festivals, there’s always something happening in the city. The city’s eclectic mix of old and new is reflected in its neighborhoods, where you can explore medieval closes one moment and enjoy modern dining the next. Whether you’re wandering the historic Royal Mile, relaxing in a city center café, or taking in the panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh offers endless opportunities for discovery.

Getting around is easy thanks to excellent public transport, with Edinburgh Airport providing international connections and Edinburgh Waverley Station linking you to the rest of the UK. Whether you’re here to explore the city’s storied past, sample its renowned restaurants, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Edinburgh is a destination that rewards every visitor.

 

Why Choose a Long Stay in Edinburgh (and Why Ocean Serviced Apartments)

Scotland’s capital has a rhythm that rewards those who stay longer. In August, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe transforms the city into the world’s largest arts festival, with performances running for three weeks straight. During Hogmanay, New Year celebrations stretch across several days of music, fireworks, and street parties. Spring and autumn offer quieter stretches where you can explore cobbled streets without the summer crowds and find great value hotels and accommodation rates across the city.

For short trips, many visitors opt for budget accommodation such as hostels, budget hotels, or affordable guesthouses, which offer economical rates and central locations ideal for sightseeing. However, for a long stay in Edinburgh, having more space and amenities becomes essential for comfort and convenience.

Ocean Serviced Apartments in Newhaven, near Leith, are designed specifically for guests planning long stays of a week or more. Each apartment features a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, and a proper living area overlooking the Firth of Forth. The apartments offer a cosy atmosphere that makes guests feel at home throughout their stay. This isn’t a hotel room with a kettle and microwave, it’s a genuine home-from-home where you can spread out, cook proper meals, and settle into a routine.

Typical guests include families visiting for 10–14 nights during school holidays, business travellers on project assignments lasting one to three months, relocators searching for permanent housing, and festival staff working the full Fringe season. Guests love the flexibility and comfort of having a real home base for their stay. Whether you’re here to explore or to work, a longer stay changes how you experience the city.

“A week or more in Edinburgh means time to discover the places locals love, not just the attractions that fit into a weekend.”

Here’s what makes extended stays different:

• Better value per night compared to short bookings at central hotels
• More space to work, relax, and live rather than just sleep
• A fully equipped kitchen to cook with fresh produce from local markets
• Time to explore beyond the Royal Mile and discover neighbourhoods like Leith, Stockbridge, and Portobello

Edinburgh offers a wide range of places to stay, from budget options like hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and suites, but serviced apartments provide the best balance of space, comfort, and value for long stays.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to plan a longer visit to Edinburgh, what to budget for, how to get around from Newhaven, and exactly what to expect when staying at Ocean Serviced Apartments.

Where to Stay for a Week or More in Edinburgh

Most visitors to Edinburgh book a hotel room for two or three nights somewhere around the Old Town or New Town. That works for a city break focused on Edinburgh Castle, the historic Royal Mile, and Princes Street shopping. But for stays of seven nights or more, priorities shift. You start looking for more space, quieter evenings, and a location with easy access to everyday essentials.

Newhaven and Leith offer exactly that. The waterfront setting puts you beside Newhaven Harbour, where local restaurants and traditional pubs line the quayside. Ocean Terminal shopping centre sits within walking distance, home to the Royal Yacht Britannia and a range of shops and cafés. Direct buses run into Edinburgh city centre, reaching Princes Street in roughly 10–15 minutes depending on traffic.

Ocean Serviced Apartments occupy modern waterfront buildings with views across the Firth of Forth. The location provides easy access to major roads, the A90 and A1 are nearby for day trips to the Highlands, North Berwick, or across the Queensferry Crossing to Fife. You’re close enough to central Edinburgh for evening shows and sightseeing, but far enough to enjoy peaceful mornings and space to breathe.

For those considering other areas, here’s a quick comparison:

• Edinburgh city centre suits guests who prioritise nightlife and walking to attractions
• The West End works well for business travellers near corporate offices
• Southside appeals to those visiting the university or attending conferences
• Leith and Newhaven offer the best mix of food, culture, and residential calm for longer stays

Well-known brands like Destiny Scotland and Premier Inn offer centrally located options for both short and long stays, providing a range of accommodation choices in prime areas.

When choosing a base for a week or more, look for supermarkets within walking distance, regular bus or tram connections, secure parking if you’re bringing a car, and quiet surroundings for restful evenings.

Accommodation types in Edinburgh range from serviced apartments and budget hotels to luxury hotels and suites in the city centre, catering to those seeking a premium experience as well as more affordable options.

Around Ocean Serviced Apartments, you’ll find:

• Cafés and restaurants at Newhaven Harbour and along the Shore
• Major supermarkets within a short bus ride or drive
• Coastal walks along the waterfront toward Leith and Portobello
• Bus stops with frequent services into the city centre

What Makes Ocean Serviced Apartments Ideal for Long Stays

Long stays demand more than a bed and a bathroom. After seven nights in a standard hotel room, even the most patient guest starts craving a sofa, a proper kitchen, and somewhere to spread out. Ocean Serviced Apartments are built around this reality, offering one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with separate living and sleeping spaces that let you maintain normal routines. Some apartments are designed as suites, providing extra space and premium amenities for guests seeking a more luxurious and comfortable long stay experience.

Every apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen: hob, oven, fridge-freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and a full set of cookware and utensils. There’s a washing machine for laundry, high-speed free wifi throughout, and a Smart TV for evening entertainment. Storage space is generous, enough for a family’s luggage or a business traveller’s wardrobe over several weeks.

The facilities that matter for long stays include:

• Weekly housekeeping with fresh linen and towel changes
• On-site or secure nearby parking for guests with cars
• Lift access to all floors
• Reception support and guest assistance contacts
• Flexible check-in and check-out times where possible
• Strict non-smoking policy applies to all apartments, balconies, and public areas within the building

Many apartments feature sea-view balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Firth of Forth and Newhaven Harbour. For guests spending evenings at “home” after a day exploring Arthur’s Seat or shopping on Market Street, these views make a genuine difference to how the stay feels.

“The ability to cook a proper dinner after a full day at the Fringe, then sit with a glass of wine watching boats in the harbour – that’s what a long stay should feel like.”

On value, the numbers work in favour of apartment stays. A family of four sharing a two-bedroom apartment pays significantly less per person per night than booking two hotel rooms in central Edinburgh. A small project team can share a three-bedroom unit, split costs, and gain space to work in the evenings. Over 7–30 nights, the savings add up quickly, especially when you factor in reduced dining costs from self catering.

Planning Your Long Stay: When to Come and What to Budget

Edinburgh’s prices and availability swing dramatically by season. August is the most competitive month: the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, International Festival, and other events fill the city with performers, audiences, and journalists. Accommodation books up months in advance, and rates reflect the demand. Late December brings similar pressure around Hogmanay, when visitors arrive from around the world to celebrate New Year in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Key date ranges to know:

• August: Festival season runs roughly 2–26 August, with peak demand throughout
• Late November – December: Christmas markets and Hogmanay preparations
• 31 December – 1 January: Hogmanay itself, requiring very early booking
• March–May and September–early November: Quieter shoulder seasons with better value

Ocean Serviced Apartments pricing follows these patterns. Expect higher rates during festivals and better value mid-week and off-peak. For stays over seven nights, booking early matters, especially for peak season. Apartments go quickly, and last-minute options may be limited.

A simple budget framework for a week or more in Edinburgh:

• Accommodation: Your largest single cost, but better value per night with longer stays
• Public transport: Lothian Buses day tickets or weekly passes keep costs predictable
• Groceries: Shopping at supermarkets near Leith and Ocean Terminal saves significantly versus eating out
• Attraction tickets: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, National Museum of Scotland (free), camera museums
• Eating out: Budget for a few dinners at restaurants around Leith Shore or in the city centre
• Day trips: Train fares or fuel for excursions to North Berwick, Stirling, or the Highlands

Long-stay guests benefit from self catering accommodation’s built-in savings. A breakfast cooked in your apartment costs a fraction of a hotel breakfast. Lunches packed for day trips avoid overpriced tourist-area cafés. The convenience of a full kitchen means you can eat well without overspending.

Getting to Edinburgh: Arrival and Transportation Options

Arriving in Edinburgh is refreshingly straightforward, whether you’re coming from across the UK or further afield. Edinburgh Airport, located just a short distance from the city center, welcomes flights from major cities around the world. Upon arrival, you’ll find a range of convenient transport options: the Airlink 100 bus and the city’s modern tram service both provide direct routes into the heart of Edinburgh, making your journey into town quick and hassle-free. Taxis and car hire are also readily available for those who prefer a more private transfer.

If you’re traveling by train, Edinburgh Waverley Station sits right in the city center, offering frequent connections to London, Glasgow, and other Scottish destinations. Once you’ve arrived, exploring Edinburgh is a pleasure thanks to its compact layout and excellent public transport network. Buses and trams make it easy to reach all corners of the city, while many of the main attractions – like the National Museum, Princes Street, and the atmospheric Old Town – are within easy walking distance.

For accommodation, Edinburgh caters to every budget and preference. From great value hotels and hostels to stylish self catering apartments, you’ll find plenty of options located close to the city’s top sights. Whether you’re staying in the historic New Town, the bustling Old Town, or a modern apartment near the waterfront, you’ll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, all just a short stroll or bus ride away.

 

Getting Around: From Ocean Serviced Apartments to the Rest of Edinburgh

Staying slightly outside the Old Town doesn’t mean sacrificing access. Edinburgh is compact, and the bus network connects Newhaven and Leith to the city centre efficiently. From Ocean Serviced Apartments, you’re never far from the action.

Regular bus services run from stops near the apartments directly to Princes Street and Edinburgh Waverley Station. Journey times typically fall between 15–25 minutes depending on traffic and time of day. The routes pass through Leith Walk, giving you the option to hop off for coffee or shopping along the way. Public transport in Edinburgh uses a simple ticketing system, with day passes and weekly caps making frequent travel affordable.

For guests arriving via Edinburgh Airport, the most common route involves taking the tram from the airport to the city center, then catching a bus or taxi north to Newhaven. The tram journey takes roughly 30 minutes to Princes Street. Alternatively, taxis or private transfers can bring you directly from the airport to the apartments, useful for late arrivals or those with heavy luggage.

Walking and cycling work well for local exploration. The waterfront path runs along Newhaven Harbour and continues toward Leith Shore, ideal for morning runs or evening strolls. Guests staying a week or more often develop routines: a morning walk before breakfast, a cycle into Leith for lunch, or an evening wander to watch the sunset over the Forth.

If you’re planning day trips by car, Ocean Serviced Apartments offers secure parking options. This makes excursions straightforward:

• North Berwick and East Lothian beaches: approximately 30–40 minutes east
• Stirling Castle and the Trossachs: approximately 45 minutes northwest
• South Queensferry and the Forth Bridges: approximately 20 minutes west
• The Pentland Hills: approximately 25 minutes south

Be aware that Edinburgh’s city centre has one-way streets, restricted parking zones, and resident-only areas. For sightseeing days in the Old Town, leaving the car at the apartment and taking the bus usually proves easier than hunting for parking near the Royal Mile.

Checking In and Out: What to Expect at Ocean Serviced Apartments

Checking in at Ocean Serviced Apartments is designed to be smooth and welcoming, ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive. Perfectly located for exploring Edinburgh’s city center, these modern apartments offer a central location just minutes from the historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the lively bars and restaurants of the Old Town. Whether you’re here for a city break or a longer stay, you’ll find the facilities and flexibility you need.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by friendly staff ready to assist with check-in and answer any questions about your stay. The apartments are fully self catering, giving you the freedom to settle in and make the space your own. Each unit is equipped with free WiFi, comfortable sofa beds, and all the essentials for a relaxing visit. If you arrive early or need to store your luggage after check-out, convenient luggage storage is available, allowing you to make the most of your time in the city.

Ocean Serviced Apartments are designed with guest convenience in mind, offering a range of accommodation options to suit solo travelers, families, and groups. With easy access to public transport, you can explore Edinburgh’s top attractions, from the dramatic heights of Arthur’s Seat to the vibrant shopping on Princes Street, all within easy reach. Whether you’re planning to dine out at local restaurants or enjoy a quiet night in, you’ll appreciate the comfort, location, and value that make Ocean Serviced Apartments a favorite choice for visitors to Scotland’s capital.

Everyday Living on a Long Stay: Food, Shopping and Working from ‘Home’

Ocean Serviced Apartments function as more than a place to sleep. For guests staying seven nights or more, the apartment becomes a genuine base for daily life: cooking breakfast before heading out, working on laptops in the afternoon, unwinding with a film in the evening.

Newhaven Harbour and nearby Leith Shore offer excellent dining without needing to travel into the city centre. Seafood restaurants, bistros, and traditional pubs cluster around the waterfront. Ocean Terminal provides casual dining options alongside coffee shops for quick stops. The Shore, Leith’s historic quayside, has become one of Edinburgh’s best eating neighbourhoods, with restaurants ranging from relaxed gastropubs to upscale seafood spots.

For groceries and essentials, major supermarkets sit within a short bus ride or drive. Smaller convenience stores within walking distance cover everyday needs. Ocean Terminal houses additional retail options, from pharmacy essentials to gifts. Leith Walk, running south toward the city centre, offers an eclectic mix of independent shops, bakeries, and delis.

Working from the apartment suits remote professionals and business travellers alike. Fast wifi handles video calls without issues. Dining tables or dedicated desks in many apartments provide proper workspaces. Multiple plug sockets accommodate laptops, phones, and monitors. Compared to some Old Town streets, where festival crowds and late-night bars create noise, Newhaven’s residential surroundings offer quiet focus during the day and restful sleep at night.

Daily routines that long-stay guests often enjoy:

• Early morning walks along the waterfront before breakfast in the apartment
• Mid-morning coffee at a café in Leith before exploring the city
• Cooking dinner with fresh ingredients from local shops, eaten with views over the Firth of Forth
• Using the living room for yoga, stretching, or simply relaxing after a day on foot
• Working from the apartment during quieter mornings, then heading out after lunch

This is what it means to live like a local rather than visit Edinburgh as a tourist.

What to Do During a Week or More in Edinburgh

A long stay in Edinburgh changes how you approach the city. Instead of cramming the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and a whisky tasting into 48 hours, you can spread out. Take Arthur’s Seat on a clear morning. Wander through the National Museum of Scotland without watching the clock. Spend a full day in Leith eating and drinking your way along the Shore.

A sample structure for a 7-night stay might look like this:

Days 1–2: Central sights

• Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile
• Holyrood Palace and Holyrood Park
• Princes Street Gardens and the Scott Monument
• Calton Hill for sunset views

Days 3–4: Leith and the waterfront

• Royal Yacht Britannia at Ocean Terminal
• Newhaven Harbour seafood lunch
• Walk along the Water of Leith toward Stockbridge
• Evening dinner on the Shore

Day 5: Day trip

• Train to North Berwick for beaches and the Scottish Seabird Centre
• Or drive to Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument
• Or explore South Queensferry and walk across the Forth Road Bridge

Days 6–7: Slow days

• Revisit favourite spots at a relaxed pace
• Explore neighbourhoods you missed: Stockbridge, Portobello, Bruntsfield
• Cook a proper meal in the apartment
• Catch up on rest before travelling home

Must-see attractions in central Edinburgh include Edinburgh Castle perched above the city, the historic buildings along the Royal Mile stretching down to Holyrood, and the National Museum of Scotland with free entry. Princes Street offers shopping and views toward the castle, while Calton Hill provides panoramic vistas across the entire city.

Within easy reach of Ocean Serviced Apartments, the Royal Yacht Britannia ranks among Scotland’s most popular attractions. Waterfront walks take you past Newhaven Harbour toward Leith’s bars and restaurants. On clear days, you can see across the Firth of Forth to Fife and the distant hills.

For day trips, North Berwick offers sandy beaches and coastal charm, reachable by train in under an hour. Stirling Castle and the surrounding area make a full-day excursion. The Pentland Hills, just south of Edinburgh, provide walking routes ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

Build in at least one “rest day” where you spend more time in the apartment, cook, catch up on work, and enjoy the sea views rather than rushing between attractions.

Staying Longer: Relocation, Work Projects and Extended Visits

Not every long stay is a holiday. Many guests at Ocean Serviced Apartments arrive for relocations, medium-term work contracts, university visits, or extended family stays lasting several weeks or months. The apartments suit these situations particularly well.

For relocators, Ocean Serviced Apartments provides a stable base while you search for permanent housing in Edinburgh or the surrounding Lothians. You can explore different neighbourhoods, visit potential properties, and register with local services, all without the pressure of a hotel’s daily rates or the commitment of signing a 12-month lease before you know the city.

Corporate and project-based stays benefit from predictable costs. A weekly or monthly rate makes budgeting straightforward. Small teams can share a two or three-bedroom apartment, splitting costs while gaining proper space to work and live. Separate bedrooms mean privacy; a shared living room allows evening collaboration. Quiet surroundings suit early starts and focused work.

Practical considerations for extended visits include:

• Housekeeping schedules can be adjusted for stays of several weeks
• Linen and towel changes continue throughout your stay
• Parking arrangements can be confirmed in advance
• Additional requirements, extra desks, child equipment like cots or highchairs, can often be arranged

Example scenarios:

A family relocating from London for a new job books a two-bedroom apartment for six weeks. The parents work remotely during the day while searching for a suitable house. The children have space to play, and everyone can cook familiar meals in the kitchen rather than living on takeaway food.

A consultant on a six-week assignment chooses a one-bedroom apartment with a sofa bed for occasional visiting colleagues. The fast wifi supports video calls with the head office. On weekends, there’s time to explore Arthur’s Seat or take the train to the Highlands.

Ocean Serviced Apartments is a friendly place for guests who need flexibility and support during transitions – whether you’re here for work, study, or a major life change.

How to Book and Make the Most of Your Long Stay at Ocean Serviced Apartments

Booking directly through the Ocean Serviced Apartments website offers the clearest path to arranging a long stay. Direct booking means you can communicate specific requirements upfront, ask questions about apartment configurations, and confirm details like parking or early check times before you arrive.

When enquiring about a stay of a week or more, have this information ready:

• Exact arrival and departure dates
• Number of guests (including children)
• Preferred apartment size: one, two, or three bedrooms
• Whether you need parking
• Any accessibility requirements or family-related requests (cot, highchair, ground-floor access)
• Whether you expect to need luggage storage before check-in or after check-out

Simple tips for making the most of your booking:

• Book well in advance for August and Hogmanay, these periods fill quickly
• Consider mid-week arrivals for smoother travel and potentially better rates
• Plan a rough itinerary before you arrive, but leave free days for spontaneous exploration
• Contact the team directly for stays of several weeks to discuss tailored arrangements

For extended stays, the Ocean Serviced Apartments team can discuss housekeeping frequency, corporate invoicing, and arrangements for returning guests. This is accommodation designed around your needs, not a one-size-fits-all hotel experience.

Edinburgh is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, a place where history, culture, and natural scenery combine in ways few destinations can match. A long stay gives you time to discover the city properly: the early morning light on Arthur’s Seat, the perfect place for fish and chips in Leith, the quiet corners of the New Town where tourists rarely wander.

Whether you’re planning a week-long city break, an extended work assignment, or a temporary home while you search for permanent housing, Ocean Serviced Apartments offers the space, comfort, and flexibility to make Edinburgh feel like home. Start planning your long stay today, check availability at oceanservicedapts.com and give yourself the gift of time in Scotland’s capital.