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Accommodation in Dundee – Where to Stay by the Tay (Without Breaking the Bank or Your Spirit)

Ah, Dundee. City of Discovery, home of Desperate Dan, and the only place where you can stand on a waterfront, gaze at an Antarctic ship, a world-class design museum, and a seagull nicking someone’s chips—all at the same time. Whether you’re here for a weekend wander or a longer adventure, one thing’s for sure: where you stay makes all the difference.

That’s where this wee guide comes in.

We’ve pulled together the best places to stay in Dundee—across all budgets, vibes, and visitor types. Fancy spa treatments and Tay views? We’ve got you. Need a no-fuss spot near the train station and a decent fry-up? Covered. Bringing the dug? No bother.

So whether you’re a couple looking for waterfront romance, a family in need of space and snacks, or just here solo chasing jute, jam and journalism—here’s how to find the perfect accommodation in Dundee.

Why Choose Dundee for Your Stay?

Now, we might be biased—but Dundee isn’t just a stop between Edinburgh and Aberdeen. It’s a destination in its own right. A city that somehow manages to be laid-back and lively, full of green spaces, cracking food, and more sunshine than any other Scottish city (aye, really—look it up).

And when it comes to places to stay, Dundee punches well above its weight. From boutique hotels with rooftop views of the Tay to quirky B&Bs where the shortbread is homemade and the banter’s free, you’ll find something that fits your trip—and your budget.

Let’s be honest—Dundee’s no metropolis. You’re never more than 15 minutes from the good stuff. So when picking your accommodation, it’s less about distance and more about feel. Here’s a quick rundown:

City Centre

Right in the thick of it. Perfect if you like stepping out your front door and straight into a museum, gallery, or pub.

  • Best for: First-timers, solo travellers, night owls

  • Stay here if: You want to be a stone’s throw from the V&A Dundee, Caird Hall, and all the shops.

  • Top picks: Hotel Indigo (boutique and arty), Hampton by Hilton (solid and central), Premier Inn (budget but bang-on location)

Waterfront & City Quay

Sunsets over the Tay, marina strolls, and the V&A as your neighbour.

  • Best for: Couples, design lovers, Instagrammers

  • Stay here if: You want to sip a coffee with a view and pretend you’re in Copenhagen.

  • Top picks: Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa (rooftop spa, yes please), Malmaison (cool vibes, comfier beds than your own)

Broughty Ferry

A bit outside the city centre, but worth it for the beach, castle, and cosy village feel.

  • Best for: Families, dog owners, anyone needing a breather

  • Stay here if: You like sea air, ice cream, and castle views with your morning cuppa.

  • Top picks: Invercarse Hotel (nearby and family-friendly), local B&Bs like Seacraig (warm hosts, beach walks galore)

West End / Perth Road

Leafy streets, indie cafes, and a slower pace—but still close to the action.

  • Best for: Longer stays, uni visits, working holidays

  • Stay here if: You like a quiet base with good coffee and better people-watching.

  • Top picks: Taypark House (Edwardian charm), Best Western Queens (old-school comfort, Tay views)

Money talks, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend daft amounts for a good night’s kip. Here’s what you can expect, depending on how flush you’re feeling:

💷 Budget🏨 Where to Stay🔑 Perks & Vibe
Under £70        Travelodge Dundee Central, Dundee Backpackers, Premier Inn Dundee  Centre         No-frills, clean, close to everything. Great for short trips or solo wanderers.
£70 – £120Hampton by Hilton, Taypark House, Best Western QueensMid-range magic: comfy beds, free brekkies, and a good mix of style and substance.
£120+Apex City Quay, Malmaison, Forbes of Kingennie Lodges   Spa days, swanky suites, or countryside escapes. Go on, treat yourself.

Here’s the honest truth—Dundee’s worth a visit any time of year. But if you’re flexible, timing your trip can make a big difference in price and vibes:

🗓️ Month     💰 Avg. Nightly Rate       ☁️ Weather     🎉 What’s On
Jan–Mar£60–£90Cold but crispHogmanay fun, cheaper B&Bs
Apr–Jun£80–£120Mild, springyDundee Design Festival, blooming botanic gardens
Jul–Sep£100–£167Warmest months    Dundee Fringe (Sep 12–21), beach days
Oct–Dec£50–£112Cosy, festiveLiterary Festival, Christmas markets

 

💡 Top Tip: September’s buzzing thanks to the Fringe, but rooms go quick—book 2–3 months ahead if you can.

You’re in luck—Dundee’s a friendly city in more ways than one. Whether you’re travelling with wee bairns or four-legged pals, there are solid options.

  • Families love: Staybridge Suites (spacious apartments, full kitchens), Apex (pool for the kids, spa for the adults)

  • Pet-friendly spots: Holiday Inn Express (dogs stay free), Westport Serviced Apartments (treats and tail wags welcome), Forbes of Kingennie (dog walks for days)

From swanky spa hotels to wee B&Bs with hot toast and warm chat—Dundee’s got a bed for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re in town for a romantic weekend, a work trip, or just fancy exploring the city that gave the world Lemmings and Lorraine Kelly, finding the right place to stay can make or break your trip. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of accommodation in Dundee—what they’re like, who they suit, and where you’ll find the good stuff (without falling into a tourist trap).

Luxury Hotels in Dundee

The Tay out the window. A robe that actually fits. A breakfast that makes you question your life choices (in a good way).

If you’re looking to treat yourself—or someone else—Dundee has a few luxury hotels that bring the comfort without the snootiness. Think stylish rooms, on-site spas, and a location close enough to the V&A to wander over in your slippers (not that we’re recommending that…).

Top Picks:

  • Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa
    £140–£180/night
    Indoor pool, rooftop spa, and views of the marina. Great for couples or anyone needing a post-museum massage. Pet-friendly too—just £20 extra for the wee beastie.

  • Malmaison Dundee
    £130–£170/night
    Industrial chic meets boutique style in a converted warehouse. Close to the riverfront and full of moody lighting and plush bedding. The brasserie downstairs is a proper treat.

Ideal for: Romantic weekends, special occasions, design lovers
Worth knowing: Book early for weekends or Fringe Festival dates—these fill up fast.

 

Mid-Range Hotels & Guesthouses

Comfortable, reliable, and with a decent shower pressure (it matters, trust us).

If you’re after a spot that balances cost and quality, Dundee has a solid crop of mid-range hotels and charming guesthouses. These are perfect for travellers who want a clean, comfy base—maybe with breakfast thrown in—but don’t need the bells and whistles.

Top Picks:

  • Hotel Indigo Dundee
    £90–£130/night
    Nods to the city’s jute heritage in every corner, without feeling forced. Great central location and a decent wee bar. Ideal for business trips or casual weekenders.

  • Hampton by Hilton Dundee City Centre
    £80–£110/night
    Clean, modern, and very predictable—in a good way. Breakfast is included (bonus), and it’s a short walk to the McManus Gallery and high street.

  • Best Western Queens Hotel
    £75–£105/night
    An old-school classic with Victorian charm, right next to the university. Spacious rooms and easy parking. Some say the decor’s a bit dated, but it’s got character.

Ideal for: Families, business travellers, practical planners
Worth knowing: Some of these hotels offer connecting rooms or sofa beds for the wee ones.

 

Budget Options & Hostels in Dundee

No frills, no nonsense—and plenty of character.

If you’re watching your wallet (or just prefer spending your cash on chips and entry tickets), there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options in Dundee. You won’t find infinity pools here—but you will find clean beds, friendly faces, and often a great location.

Top Picks:

  • Travelodge Dundee Central
    £50–£70/night
    Standard chain fare, but close to the action and solid value. Add £8.95 for an all-you-can-eat breakfast—because you will be hungry after walking the Law.

  • Dundee Backpackers Hostel
    £25–£40/dorm
    Housed in a set of historic buildings on the High Street. Shared kitchens, sociable atmosphere, and a good spot for meeting fellow travellers. Quirky and well-run.

  • Premier Inn Dundee Centre
    £45–£65/night
    You know exactly what you’re getting, and sometimes that’s just what you need. Right by Overgate Shopping Centre.

Ideal for: Solo travellers, students, last-minute trips
Worth knowing: Hostels fill up fast in summer—book early if you want a bunk near the city centre.

 
B&Bs & Guesthouses in Dundee

Where the shortbread’s homemade, and the hosts know more about the city than Google ever will.

If you like your mornings with a hot cooked breakfast and a wee bit of friendly chat, B&Bs are the way to go. Dundee has some cracking ones—many family-run, all full of charm.

Top Picks:

  • Taypark House
    £70–£95/night
    Grand Edwardian mansion with gardens, a cracking café, and views of the Tay. It’s a bit out of town but peaceful as anything. Perfect if you like the birdsong with your breakfast.

  • Abertay Guest House
    £60–£85/night
    A Victorian townhouse with bags of personality. Near the Rep Theatre and Broughty Ferry beach.

Ideal for: Couples, solo explorers, travellers looking for a “real” Scottish stay
Worth knowing: These book up fast around holidays—so get in early.

 

Self-Catering Apartments & Cottages

Like your own wee home in the city—ideal if you want to cook, sprawl, or just avoid other humans.

Self-catering is a great option for families, remote workers, or anyone staying more than a couple of nights. More space, more flexibility, and usually better value per head.

Top Picks:

  • Staybridge Suites Dundee
    £100–£140/night
    Apartment-style suites with full kitchens, a gym, and laundry facilities. Great for longer stays or work trips. Pets welcome too.

  • Westport Serviced Apartments
    £90–£120/night
    Smart, central, and fully kitted out. Ideal for couples or small groups who want to cook their own meals and come and go as they please.

Ideal for: Families, digital nomads, long weekends
Worth knowing: Some include cleaning fees—check the fine print before booking.

Unique Stays (Glamping, Lodges, & Farmhouses)

Fancy something a wee bit different? Get closer to nature—or to royalty—with these offbeat stays near Dundee.

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz or just want to stay somewhere memorable, there are a few gems tucked just outside the city.

Top Picks:

  • Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort
    £120+/night
    Lodges with private hot tubs, golf, fishing, and even spa treatments. Five miles out—but worth every mile. Ideal for families and romantic breaks alike.

  • Glamis Castle Cottages
    £110–£140/night
    Proper historic charm, right next to the childhood home of the Queen Mum. Pets allowed, and there’s even falconry on offer.

Ideal for: Adventurous couples, families with energy to burn, anyone sick of hotel carpets
Worth knowing: These can be seasonal—double-check they’re open when you’re planning to visit.

1. Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa

💰 £140+ / Luxury Hotel
📍 Overlooks the marina | 5 mins to V&A

Why book it: If you’re after a bit of pampering with your stay. The spa’s a treat, the views are even better, and you’re close enough to the centre to roll into the V&A without breaking a sweat.

Best for: Couples, birthdays, anyone in need of a proper lie-in
Guest quote: “Heavenly beds, a banging breakfast, and a hot tub that should come with a warning label. 10/10.”


2. Malmaison Dundee

💰 £130+ / Boutique Hotel
📍 City centre | 2 mins from train station

Why book it: Industrial chic without the attitude. The rooms are stylish, the brasserie does a mean steak, and it’s right on the doorstep of Dundee’s nightlife (but far enough away that you’ll still get some kip).

Best for: Date nights, city breaks, folk who like a moody lightbulb aesthetic
Guest quote: “Felt like a rockstar. Just one who appreciates a good cuppa.”


3. Hotel Indigo Dundee

💰 £90+ / Mid-range Hotel
📍 Near the university | Design-forward

Why book it: Quirky and comfortable with wee touches that nod to Dundee’s past—jute, comics, and all. It’s a cool space that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Best for: Creative types, business travellers, folk looking for something a bit different
Guest quote: “It’s like staying inside a local history book—only with comfier pillows.”


4. Hampton by Hilton Dundee City Centre

💰 £80+ / Mid-range Hotel
📍 Smack in the centre | Free breakfast

Why book it: Reliable, central, and includes a hot brekkie that’s better than it has any right to be. Great option if you just want a stress-free stay with no surprises (except maybe how nice the staff are).

Best for: Families, business stays, first-timers
Guest quote: “Honestly just easy. Walked everywhere, slept well, ate too much at breakfast.”


5. Staybridge Suites Dundee

💰 £100+ / Self-catering Suites
📍 0.6 miles from Discovery Point

Why book it: Apartments with hotel perks. If you’re in town for more than a couple of nights, this is a cracking option. Full kitchen, laundry, and loads of space.

Best for: Families, remote workers, long stays
Guest quote: “Felt like a proper wee flat—just with room service and better lighting.”


6. Taypark House

💰 £70–£95 / B&B with a twist
📍 West End | Peaceful, leafy setting

Why book it: An Edwardian mansion with a modern touch. Set just outside the city centre, this place is full of character and ideal for a relaxed, romantic break.

Best for: Couples, solo travellers who love a slower pace
Guest quote: “Felt like visiting a posh auntie who bakes and lets you sleep in.”


7. Travelodge Dundee Central

💰 £50–£70 / Budget Chain Hotel
📍 Near Overgate Shopping | Central

Why book it: You know what you’re getting, and that’s not a bad thing. Clean, cheap, central—great for events like the Dundee Fringe or a last-minute stopover.

Best for: Budget travellers, quick trips, Fringe-goers
Guest quote: “It’s not fancy—but it’s where I slept like a log and saved £100. No complaints.”


8. Best Western Invercarse Hotel

💰 £75+ / Mid-range Hotel with Views
📍 West End | Overlooks the Tay

Why book it: A bit more peaceful, with river views and easy parking. Great if you’re not fussed about staying right in the centre, or just want a base near Broughty Ferry.

Best for: Families, road-trippers, folks who like green space
Guest quote: “Woke up to birdsong and the Tay sparkling—felt like a million miles from the city.”


9. Holiday Inn Express Dundee

💰 £85+ / Mid-range Chain Hotel
📍 Riverside | Free breakfast, pet-friendly

Why book it: A modern option that ticks the boxes—especially for those travelling with a dog or wanting a solid breakfast before heading off exploring.

Best for: Pet owners, weekenders, fuss-free comfort
Guest quote: “The dug got a biscuit on check-in. 5 stars right there.”


10. Forbes of Kingennie Lodges

💰 £120+ / Countryside Lodges & Glamping
📍 5 miles outside Dundee

Why book it: If you’re craving space, nature, or just want to stay somewhere that’s not a hotel, this is a brilliant option. On-site fishing, spa, golf, and proper fresh air.

Best for: Families, nature lovers, staycations with a twist
Guest quote: “Didn’t want to leave. The kids were outside all day and I had wine in a hot tub. Perfection.”

  • Because nobody wants to overpay—or end up miles from the action.

    When Should I Book?

    For peak dates like summer or the Dundee Fringe (Sept 12–21, 2025), try to book 2–3 months in advance. Prices can jump 20%+ closer to the time.

    Where Should Families Stay?

    Look at Staybridge Suites or Invercarse Hotel—plenty of space and quieter locations. Forbes Lodges if you’re bringing kids who need a runabout.

    Can I Bring My Dog?

    Aye, many places are pet-friendly. Try Holiday Inn Express, Forbes Lodges, or Westport Apartments—most charge a small fee, but it’s worth it for the tail wags.

    Best Budget Option That’s Still Central?

    Travelodge Dundee Central or Premier Inn—no frills, but proper handy.

    Do Dundee Hotels Include Parking?

    Some do (like Taypark House and Best Western Invercarse), but city centre spots often charge or have limited spaces. Check before booking.

    Got Accessibility Needs?

    Most big chains like Hampton by Hilton or Apex have accessible rooms and lifts. Always best to call ahead and double-check what you need is there.

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So there you have it—Dundee’s best places to stay, from rooftop spas to seaside B&Bs, stylish city-centre digs to forest pod glamping. Whether you’re in town for design, drama, history, or just a decent fish supper by the Tay, your perfect base is waiting.

Apex for a splash-out spa night. Taypark for country-house charm. Travelodge if you just need a bed and a brew. It’s all here—and for way less than you’d pay in Edinburgh or Glasgow.

With events like the Dundee Fringe Festival, Design Festival, and all the buzz at the V&A, there’s never been a better time to book your stay and see what the City of Discovery is all about. Sunshine, seagulls, and proper hospitality included.

  • Found your spot? Book direct or through Booking.com for the best rates (and keep an eye out for free cancellation).
  • Coming in September? Book now. Seriously. You’ll thank yourself.
  • Bringing the dug? Double-check those pet policies—most places are chill, but no one likes surprises.
  • Still not sure? Drop us a message. We’ll help you find the right fit—no pressure, nae nonsense.
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