Choosing somewhere suitable to stay is essential to make the most of your language learning experience.

However long your course, finding comfortable and convenient accommodation in an unfamiliar city can be a challenge. Here’s where to start.

Types of Accommodation Available in Edinburgh

Students at ECS Scotland have a range of requirements and preferences to choose from.

1. Homestay with a Local Host Family

Staying with a local host family is a good choice for students who want to maximise their time speaking English with hospitable locals.

2. Student Residences

There are some private student residences in Edinburgh offering short-term stays. These often cater for a younger age group.

3. Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments provide more privacy, independence and self-catering facilities.

4. Hotels, Hostels, Guesthouses & B&Bs

For short stays hotels, hostels, guesthouses and b&bs provide accommodation at different price ranges and levels of comfort.

When Booking Accommodation Remember the following:

  1. Plan Early – Edinburgh is a very popular city all year round, so it is important to book your accommodation well in advance of your course.
  2. ECS Scotland’s Homestay Hosts – Ask ECS Scotland’s accommodation manager, Laura, about host family availability and options ecsscotland.co.uk/accommodation
  3. Use Trusted Booking Websites – Like airbnb.co.uk , booking.com and homestayinternational.co.uk . Don’t forget to check reviews and terms & conditions.
  4. Consider Location – There are good transport links throughout Edinburgh to the city centre. Popular areas such as Dalry, Brunstfield, Morningside, Portobello, Joppa, Leith, and Marchmont are worth looking at outside of the centre.
  5. Wherever you are staying – Confirm what’s included in the total price.

What's it like in a homestay family?