Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

THE 10 CLOSEST Hotels to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Winner of VisitScotland's Best Visitor Attraction Experience 2022/23! We are Scotland’s oldest purpose-built attraction, established in 1835. Interact with over 100 illusions and get a breath of fresh air on our magnificent Rooftop Terrace, which offers the most spectacular 360 degree views of Edinburgh. At Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, experience five floors of interactive hands-on optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including our head-spinning Vortex Tunnel, bewildering Mirror Maze and mind-blowing Shrinking Room. Not to mention our 170 year old Camera Obscura! Get involved, play, touch, listen, and see. Great fun for all ages and nationalities, whatever the weather. 'Best family attraction in Britain’, The Telegraph. 'Five Stars, outstanding, world class', VisitScotland. Free Wi-Fi. Allow about 2 hours. Please note the attraction is located in a listed 17th Century building over 5 floors without a lift. Open every day, open late on holidays.
Read more
Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND Scotland

Popular


Awards
Travellers’ Choice Awards winners (including the “Best of the Best” title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.


Property types


Amenities


Distance from

25+ km

Neighbourhoods


Traveller rating


Hotel class


Style


Brands

Searching hundreds of travel sites to find you the best price
Sort by:
  • Best Value
    Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
  • Traveller Ranked
    Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
  • Distance from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.
  1. 4.0 of 5 stars
    Highest-rated 4-star hotel within a 4 minute walk of Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    Based on availability on Tripadvisor for 23 February - 24 February
    Enter dates to see prices
    26 King's Stables Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2JY Scotland
    0.3 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #1 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  2. Enter dates to see prices
    1 India Buildings Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2EX Scotland
    0.2 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #2 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  3. Enter dates to see prices
  4. Enter dates to see prices
    329 High Street Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1PN Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #4 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  5. Enter dates to see prices
    100 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 3AB Scotland
    0.4 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #5 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  6. Enter dates to see prices
  7. Enter dates to see prices
    61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HJ Scotland
    0.2 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #7 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  8. Enter dates to see prices
    139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 2JR Scotland
    0.1 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #8 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  9. Enter dates to see prices
    11 Bristo Place, Edinburgh EH1 1EZ Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #9 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  10. Enter dates to see prices
    31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HS Scotland
    0.2 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #11 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  11. Enter dates to see prices
    1 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD Scotland
    0.2 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #12 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  12. Enter dates to see prices
    139 Cowgate near St. Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh EH1 1JS Scotland
    0.4 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #14 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  13. Enter dates to see prices
    12-26 St Giles' Street, Edinburgh EH1 1PT Scotland
    0.3 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #15 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  14. Enter dates to see prices
    6 Hunter Square Off Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QW Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #16 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  15. Enter dates to see prices
    82 High Street Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1LL Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #17 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  16. Enter dates to see prices
    20-30 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh EH1 1NY Scotland
    0.4 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #18 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  17. Enter dates to see prices
  18. Enter dates to see prices
    16 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PF Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #21 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  19. Enter dates to see prices
    80 Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9DE Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #22 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  20. Enter dates to see prices
    20 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1TR Scotland
    0.5 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #24 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  21. Enter dates to see prices
  22. Enter dates to see prices
    37-43 Rose Street, Edinburgh EH2 2NH Scotland
    0.4 km from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    #26 Best Value of 333 Hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
  23. Enter dates to see prices
  24. Enter dates to see prices
Showing results 1-30 of 333
See what travellers are saying
  • chrislawrie
    Glasgow, United Kingdom13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great wee family day out!!
    Glad we booked ahead, as the place was very busy and don't think there was any time slots available on the day we went! The couple of hours we spent in here was brilliant fun, with a range of different fun experiences and lot's of hands on stuff to try! It's a great insight of pictures through time. Defo wait for the little camera show at the very top + ensure you take lots of pictures from the rook, as the views are spectacular!
    Hi Chris, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're thrilled you had a fun day out with your family and enjoyed exploring our unique attraction! Our historic Camera Obscura show and stunning rooftop views are certainly not to be missed, we're so pleased you liked them. We hope you all come back for another visit soon.
    Written 15 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 February 2024
  • Clair I
    Edinburgh, United Kingdom5 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fun visit
    This was our second visit as a family , the first was pre pandemic and we felt that the time slots and one way system made it much more enjoyable than before . Loads to see and the kids love the interactive nature of the exhibits . While it’s lots of fun it’s very expensive for a family considering it’s not a whole day activity.
    Hi Clair, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're so glad you had a fun visit with your family and felt that our one-way system and staggered entry times are making our experience even better! With 5 floors and over 100 exhibits, we feel our ticket prices are good value and in keeping with our location here in the heart of Edinburgh, but we are grateful for your feedback and will pass it on. We hope you and your family visit us again soon.
    Written 15 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 February 2024
  • Sheree Y
    27 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Brilliant 👏
    Went to this with grandkids age 7 and 9. We all had a brilliant time, so much to see and loads for interaction. Kids loved the camera Obscura experience, seeing round Edinburgh. We were there for just short of 2 hours, well worth the money.
    Hi Sheree, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're so pleased you had a brilliant visit with your grandchildren and felt it was good value! Our fascinating Camera Obscura show is a highlight for lots of our visitors so it's great to hear you loved it too. We would love to welcome you all back for another visit soon.
    Written 15 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 February 2024
  • rachel m
    Waringstown, United Kingdom593 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great way to spend a couple of hours
    There really is something for everyone here. We were a 60, 40 and 10 year old and all had our favourite parts. The camera obscura itself was great to see. The staff were very friendly and engaging throughout. We spent nearly 3 hours in total and the tunnel at the end was a great way to finish.
    Hi Rachel, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're so pleased you had a great visit and felt there was lots to entertain all ages! Our head-spinning Vortex Tunnel is a highlight for lots of our visitors so it's great to hear you loved it too. We will pass on your compliments to our friendly staff, and hope you visit us again soon.
    Written 15 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 February 2024
  • Nakita
    Jersey, United Kingdom32 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fun trip out ! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    This was a fun trip out ! All the staff were very friendly and helpful. Lots of fun activities to do for children and adults ! Beautiful views of the city (it was raining the whole time we were there but I can imagine the views are incredible when it’s a clear day). The camera Obscura exhibit is so interesting.
    Hi Nakita, thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're delighted you had a fun trip and felt there was lots to enjoy for all ages! Our stunning rooftop views of Edinburgh and fascinating Camera Obscura show are both highlights for lots of our visitors so it's great to hear you loved them too. We hope to welcome you back for another visit soon.
    Written 16 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 15 February 2024
  • Maggie F
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Brilliant experience!!
    Absolutely brilliant experience!! So many things to see and do!! The kids absolutely loved everything!! The vortex was a particular highlight for them!! Although it made me feel incredibly queasy!!!! But it's an absolute must do!!! Would happily go again next time we are in Edinburgh!!
    Hello Maggie and thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're thrilled you had a brilliant experience with your family and felt there was lots to see and do. Our head-spinning Vortex Tunnel is a highlight for lots of our visitors so it's great to hear your kids loved it too, and we hope you weren't too dizzy! We would love to welcome you back for another visit next time you're in Edinburgh.
    Written 16 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Written 16 February 2024
  • Helen M
    Newton Abbot, United Kingdom80 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent fun for all ages
    Absolutely fantastic time spent here. Exhibits were all fun and very interactive. Easy to follow directions and not too busy so we could spend as much time as we wanted. Camera show was brilliant although bad weather when we visited. So much fun, whatever your age.
    Hi Helen. Thank you for your five star review. We're delighted to hear you had a fantastic visit and enjoyed all of our interactive exhibits. Thank you for visiting and we hope to welcome you back in the future.
    Written 19 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 16 February 2024
  • Malcjd2
    Edinburgh, United Kingdom51 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great family fun
    So much variety - and so much fun all round. From controlling those amazing cameras, to the vortex tunnel (I’ve not recovered yet) - with loads of mind bending treats in between. I could go back and get different things from it. Even as an Edinburgh resident - the views of the city from the top are a big part of the value.
    Hello, and thank you for your five star review. It's fantastic to hear you had so much fun, we hope that you have now recovered from the Vortex Tunnel, it is a head-spinner! Thank you for recommending us so highly to others and we can't wait to welcome you back for another visit soon.
    Written 19 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 17 February 2024
  • Angie D
    Mullingar, Ireland9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Super enjoyable
    Really enjoyed coming to Camera Obscura, very easy to book online and get directions to it! Lots of stairs up and down, something to be aware of, not wheelchair accessible. Exhibits were fun, interactive and hands on! Our favourites were the mirror maze, the light floor and tunnel. We stayed for the rooftop talk with the camera obscura itself, our guide was Jude. Although only a trainee, Jude was full of information, little quips (and some digs!) We both enjoyed our time here. All in all, we were almost 90 minutes here as it wasn’t too busy and took our time with the different levels.
    Hi Angie, and thank you for your five star review. We're delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your visit and all of our interactive exhibits. We'll pass along your kind words to Jude, who will be so pleased you enjoyed their Camera Obscura show. Thank you for sharing your photographs with us, it looks like you had a fabulous time. Thank you for visiting and we hope to welcome you back in the future.
    Written 21 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 20 February 2024
  • Fordy40
    Shrewsbury, United Kingdom696 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mind boggling
    A gem of a find on the Edinburgh mile. Perfect stop to kill a few hours before the tattoo. Certainly opens your mind up and witness camera shots and obscure illusions. Definitely recommend this even for kids as there are a few intracted things for them
    Hello and thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're delighted you had a mind-boggling visit to Camera Obscura and felt your mind was opened to our illusions! With 5 floors and over 100 exhibits we feel we have lots to entertain all ages, including kids, so it's great to hear your feedback on this. We hope you come back again soon.
    Written 23 February 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 22 February 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Hotels near similar destinations

  • Royal Yacht Britannia Hotels
    Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction for yourself. Rated Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Attraction (AGAIN), Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world…Royal Deck Tearoom. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre. Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are - 10, 16, 34 and 35. Edinburgh trams run from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre and down to Leith. To visit Britannia get off the tram at stop Ocean Terminal
    Read more
  • John Knox House Museum Hotels
    Dating back to 1470, and now incorporated into the Scottish Storytelling Centre, John Knox House is one of Scotland's greatest cultural treasures and is associated with the most dramatic events in Scotland's turbulent history. Enter this ornate 15th century building and discover the conflicts of the Royal Mile’s oldest house. Walk in the footsteps of the famous inhabitants and hear the drama of Scotland’s Reformation unfold in every room. Look out for the tricks and traps to fool intruders and hunt for the devil hiding in The Oak Room ceiling. Opening times: Monday - Sunday 10am-6pm, last entry 5pm. Admission: Adult - £7, Concession (Students, Under 26, Arts Worker, Disabled & Unemployed) - £5.50, Children aged 7-16 - £1.50, Children under 7 - Free.
    Read more
  • Royal Scottish Academy Hotels
    Formed in 1826, The Royal Scottish Academy of Art & Architecture has a proud tradition of promoting excellence in contemporary art in Scotland. Led by eminent artists and architects the Academy has re-established itself as a leading organisation for the visual arts in Scotland, and has successfully garnered a reputation for the strength of its engaging and diverse exhibitions and the fantastic opportunities it offers both established and emerging artists.
    Read more
  • SS Explorer Hotels
    The SS Explorer is a historic ship located in Leith Docks in Edinburgh. Built in 1955 as the first purpose built Scottish marine research ship. This extraordinary piece of engineering heritage is a time capsule into life at sea between the 1950’s and 1980’s. The cabins are almost exactly as they were when the ship was decommissioned in 1985, complete with TV’s, phones and life jackets. See the difference between how the crew and officers lived. The SS Explorer Preservation Society intends to restore as much of the ship as possible, including a working main engine and create an exhibition and visitor museum ashore next to the ship. If you are interested in a tour of the SS Explorer please email us to arrange this. Unfortunately due to the historic nature of the ship it is not suitable for those with mobility issues as the many stairs inside are very steep. We are working on ways around this, but at the minute our only solution is a video tour on our website.
    Read more

Hotels Near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions information

Hotels Near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

There are 1,020 Hotels nearby in Edinburgh

Hotels nearby reviews

There are 3,93,205 reviews on Tripadvisor for Hotels nearby

Hotels nearby photos

There are 1,66,746 photos on Tripadvisor for Hotels nearby

Nearest accommodation

0.02 km
Frequently Asked Questions about hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Popular hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh that have a pool include:
The Balmoral Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

Some of the best hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh are:
Cheval Old Town Chambers - Traveller rating: 5/5
Market Street Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

A gym is available to guests at the following hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh:
Apex Grassmarket Hotel - Traveller rating: 4/5

A private balcony can be enjoyed by guests at the following hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh:
Ocean Mist Leith - Traveller rating: 5/5
Cheval Old Town Chambers - Traveller rating: 5/5
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

These hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh have great views and are well-liked by travellers:
Cheval Old Town Chambers - Traveller rating: 5/5
The Witchery - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

These hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh have been described as romantic by other travellers:
Cheval Old Town Chambers - Traveller rating: 5/5
Market Street Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
Hotel Du Vin & Bistro - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

Families travelling in Edinburgh enjoyed their stay at the following hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions:
Cheval Old Town Chambers - Traveller rating: 5/5
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal - Traveller rating: 4/5
Apex Grassmarket Hotel - Traveller rating: 4/5

These hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh generally allow pets:
The Balmoral Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
It is always best to call ahead and confirm specific pet policies before your stay.

Free breakfast can be enjoyed at the following hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh:
The Rutland - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square - Traveller rating: 4.5/5
House of Gods Hotel - Traveller rating: 4.5/5

These hotels near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh have free parking:
The Scholar - Traveller rating: 4/5
The Salisbury Hotel - Traveller rating: 4/5
Edinburgh Conference Centre - Traveller rating: 3.5/5

All Edinburgh HotelsEdinburgh Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Edinburgh
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsHoliday homesTravel StoriesCruisesCar Hire