The clock above the Balmoral Hotel, which towers over the east end of Princes Street, is permanently set three minutes fast to ensure that passengers en route to Waverley Station don’t miss their trains. This Edwardian Gothic edifice (where J.K. Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows) has been an Edinburgh institution for over a century, but there is nothing remotely old-fashioned about it.

Minimalism takes a back seat at this wildly extravagant hotel, with plush velvet, leopard-patterned carpets, deep hues on the walls and oil paintings creating the ambience of an opulent boudoir. Set in 20 acres (8ha) of parkland in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, giving it the feel of a country estate, this tranquil haven is only a 5-minute taxi ride from the city centre. It offers guests superlative service the minute they walk through the door.

When it comes to accommodation, it’s all about the location, and it doesn’t come much better than the “Caley” (as it’s affectionately dubbed by local people). Dominating the West End of Princes Street, with unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle, this former Victorian railway station is the grande dame of the Edinburgh hospitality scene. Think luxuriously dressed ladies, tartan-trousered concierges, lavish afternoon teas, impressive restaurants and a swanky Guerlain Spa.

Formerly the home of Scotland’s national daily newspaper, The Scotsman, this imposing Edwardian building – offers sweeping vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline. Any hint of ink and hot-metal printing presses have long been banished, replaced by a city-centre hotel that combines the charm of a bygone era with the best of 21st-century living. However, there are occasional reminders of the hotel’s former incarnation – check in to a spacious Editor Room or a compact Reporter Room.

The Glasshouse can be found inside one of Edinburgh’s more unusual 19th-century churches at the top of Leith Walk. Beyond the Gothic exterior, however, sits a very modern boutique hotel, creating a striking contrast between traditional and contemporary. Extensive use of glass allows masses of light to flood into every room, most of which enjoy a private terrace. Yet, the absolute highlight of this five-star hotel has to be the 0.8-hectare (2 acres) rooftop garden.

Situated in a peaceful, leafy crescent in Edinburgh’s well-heeled West End, The Bonham offers guests a gorgeously indulgent stay in spacious rooms and suites. These three former townhouses have recently been given a revamp, and, while the hotel has retained its period features, including wood panelling and huge bay windows, this place is anything but stuffy. Furnishings are upholstered in bright velvets, and the beds are deep and piled high with pillows and cushions.

There’s no mistaking your location when you splash out on the Castle Suite at this Edinburgh outpost of the Sheraton, situated on bustling Lothian Road. With muted tartan wallcoverings from floor to ceiling and a perfect view of the castle, you couldn’t be anywhere but Scotland’s capital. The contemporary Scottish interiors include bespoke art on the walls, deeply indulgent bathrooms with Molten Brown toiletries and even an award-winning thermal spa with a rooftop hydropool.

There’s not a tartan carpet in sight at this cooly contemporary hotel, the only one on the Royal Mile to boast five stars. With its pale-wood floors, muted palette of greys, cool off-whites and pared-back decor, this laid-back venue owes more than a nod to minimalist Scandi design. The Radisson Collection also offers nine suites that have been individually designed by renowned Scottish designers, complete with playful interiors with pops of colour and quirky artwork.

Just steps away from the upmarket shops on George Street and within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions, the Kimpton Charlotte Square’s prime location makes it an ideal base. Comprising seven elegant Georgian townhouses, the hotel features eclectically styled rooms decked out with heavy velvet curtains, tartan throws and deep colours. After a day of sightseeing, rejuvenate in the spa, take a dip in the indoor pool, or relax with a nightcap in the garden bar.