Hotels in St. Andrews

St. Andrews: Where Ancient Ruins Embrace Coastal Serenity

Nestled on Scotland’s east coast, St. Andrews is a charming blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Famous as the birthplace of golf, visitors can tee off at the iconic Old Course or stroll along the sandy shores of West Sands Beach. Explore the haunting ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral and the remnants of the medieval castle, each telling tales of the past. With its quaint streets, vibrant university atmosphere, and breathtaking coastal views, St. Andrews offers a unique escape that perfectly balances adventure and tranquility, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers. For the best hotel rates in St. Andrews and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in St. Andrews

Some of the best places to stay in St. Andrews are Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh City Centre and New Town. Old Town Edinburgh offers a rich tapestry of history with its medieval streets and iconic landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Edinburgh City Centre is vibrant and bustling, perfect for shopping and dining. New Town boasts stunning Georgian architecture and a more tranquil atmosphere. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, providing various options to suit different budgets. Whether near Edinburgh’s attractions or in charming St. Andrews, there's something for every traveler. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in St. Andrews:

1. Old Town EdinburghOpens in a new window: Old Town Edinburgh is a vibrant area steeped in history and culture, featuring iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. This area is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the city's romantic and cultural vibe. For accommodation, consider 94DROpens in a new window, a boutique hotel offering luxurious decor and business amenities. Another excellent option is Virgin Hotels EdinburghOpens in a new window, which caters to families and pet owners, providing child-friendly services and pet amenities. If you're interested in a unique experience, Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile EdinburghOpens in a new window also allows pets and boasts stylish design elements.
2. Edinburgh City CentreOpens in a new window: The Edinburgh City Centre is bustling with life and culture, home to famous landmarks including the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. It’s ideal for both adventure seekers and business travelers. InterContinental Edinburgh The George, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a great choice for those wanting a blend of family-friendly and business amenities, featuring adventure sports nearby. For a luxurious stay, The Balmoral HotelOpens in a new window provides top-notch facilities for business travelers and pet owners. The Glasshouse, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window is also a fantastic option, offering romance packages and spa services for a relaxing getaway.
3. New TownOpens in a new window: New Town is an elegant area known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to cultural landmarks like Princes Street. With a range of dining and shopping options, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and activity. The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is a luxury option featuring business amenities and romance packages, great for couples. The Rutland Hotel & ApartmentsOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly hotel that welcomes dogs, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. For budget-conscious travelers, Cityroomz EdinburghOpens in a new window offers essential amenities and sports activities nearby, making it a practical choice.

Things to do in St. Andrews for first time

Three days in St. Andrews offers travelers a chance to explore stunning coastlines, sandy beaches, and lush parks. Enjoy activities like golf, scenic hikes, and leisurely strolls through charming streets filled with shopping. This captivating destination combines natural beauty with rich history, making it worth every moment. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to St. Andrews:

• Day 1: Start your Scottish adventure at the V&A Dundee, a stunning museum showcasing design and creativity. After immersing yourself in the exhibits, make your way to Dundee Law, a prominent hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Tay Estuary. As the day winds down, visit Dudhope Castle, a historic fortress where you can explore its beautiful grounds and learn about its fascinating history.
• Day 2: Your journey continues at Tentsmuir Forest, where you can enjoy a refreshing walk among ancient trees and diverse wildlife. This serene natural environment leads you to Broughty Castle, a well-preserved fortification that provides insight into the area's maritime history. Finally, unwind at Broughty Ferry Seafront, where you can stroll along the picturesque beach and enjoy the coastal views, perhaps stopping for a bite at a local café.
• Day 3: Begin your day in City Square, the vibrant heart of St. Andrews, where you can admire the architecture and soak in the local atmosphere. Next, head to Elie Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for a relaxing day by the sea or a seaside picnic. Conclude your itinerary with a visit to Tentsmuir Beach, renowned for its stunning dunes and tranquil setting, where you can take a leisurely walk and reflect on your trip before heading home.

5 tips to find a great St. Andrews hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit St. Andrews is during January, February, and November when hotel prices are lower. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least eight months in advance to secure more affordable rates. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city's highlights, including its historic cathedral and castle. This way, you can experience great value for your money while exploring the beauty of St. Andrews.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to St. Andrews, there's no better place to start than Hotels.com. By checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, you're likely to uncover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding great offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you snag the best prices and availability for your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in St. Andrews.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in St. Andrews is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or walking to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in St. Andrews and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in St. Andrews

Here are some top-rated dishes in St. Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom:

• Haggis: A true Scottish classic, haggis is a savory pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oatmeal, suet, and spices. Traditionally served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), it's often enjoyed during Burns Night celebrations. Experience this dish at local eateries like the Golf Inn, where the preparation reflects the region’s culinary heritage.
• Fish and Chips: This beloved dish features battered and deep-fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with crispy fries. Enjoy it at a charming bistro in St. Andrews, where the fish is often sourced from nearby waters, adding a fresh twist to this classic comfort food.
• Cranachan: A delightful dessert made with layers of whipped cream, toasted oats, raspberries, and a splash of whisky, cranachan embodies the essence of Scottish flavors. It's a perfect way to end a meal, often enjoyed in cozy cafés like Craigtoun Cafe.

Best time to go to St. Andrews

St. Andrews experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.2°F (4.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 57.6°F (14.2°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in St. Andrews, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

St. Andrews Travel Information