Hotels in St. Andrews

St. Andrews: Where Ancient Ruins Meet Coastal Serenity

Nestled along Scotland's rugged coastline, St. Andrews is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Famous as the birthplace of golf, this charming town enchants visitors with its ancient university, majestic cathedral ruins, and the imposing St. Andrews Castle overlooking the sea. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, where quaint shops and cozy cafés invite relaxation. The stunning sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for romantic walks or leisurely afternoons. With its rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, St. Andrews offers a decadent escape for travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience. For our 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.

Discover great hotels in St. Andrews

St. Andrews offers a range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to larger, well-known establishments. You'll find friendly service, beautiful views, and easy access to golf courses and local attractions. Whether you're looking for a luxury stay or a budget-friendly option, St. Andrews has something to suit your needs. Here are some of the best hotels in St. Andrews that our travelers love:

1. Fairmont St AndrewsOpens in a new window: This luxurious 5.0-star hotel offers a splendid beachside retreat, perfect for leisure travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. With direct beach access and a wealth of adventure sports options nearby, it creates an inviting atmosphere for those looking to unwind or explore. The hotel features top-notch spa facilities and a variety of dining options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The elegant design and attentive service contribute to a memorable stay, making it an ideal choice for travelers desiring comfort and indulgence.
2. Old Course HotelOpens in a new window: This exquisite 5.0-star hotel stands out as a golfer's paradise, combining modern luxury with stunning views of the golf course. It caters specifically to leisure travelers seeking an upscale experience, offering spacious rooms and a beautiful setting. With amenities such as a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms, the hotel ensures seamless experiences for guests. The well-appointed accommodations, paired with exceptional service and a superb restaurant, guarantee a memorable stay filled with comfort and elegance.
3. Rusacks St AndrewsOpens in a new window: This enchanting 5.0-star hotel boasts a rich heritage with its beautiful architecture and stunning views over the Old Course, making it a prime destination for leisure travelers. The hotel offers a delightful culinary experience with its first-class breakfasts, ensuring guests indulge in every moment of their stay. With a serene atmosphere and exceptional service, it provides a tranquil escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the picturesque surroundings. The combination of luxury and a warm ambiance elevates the overall experience, making it a truly remarkable choice for discerning travelers.

Top locations to stay in St. Andrews

Some great areas to stay in when visiting St. Andrews are Anstruther, Cupar, and Crail. Anstruther offers seaside charm and museums, while Cupar boasts a quaint countryside atmosphere with castles. Crail is rich in history and museums. For first-time visitors, Anstruther is best suited with its picturesque coastal views and cultural attractions.

1. AnstrutherOpens in a new window: Anstruther is a charming seaside town perfect for travelers looking to soak in coastal beauty and rich history. It's known for its stunning views of the sea and its proximity to historical sites like St. Andrew's Castle. The town is also home to unique monuments and museums that tell the story of its maritime heritage. With a vibrant atmosphere and cultural attractions, Anstruther provides a delightful mix of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal base for your Scottish getaway.
2. CuparOpens in a new window: Cupar offers a quaint small-town experience nestled in the beautiful countryside of Fife. This area is steeped in history, with attractions such as the impressive St. Andrew's Cathedral and the historic V&A Dundee nearby. Cupar's scenic surroundings make it perfect for leisurely walks along the Fife Coastal Path or cycling through picturesque landscapes. The town provides a cozy atmosphere with plenty of local shops, making it a lovely place to unwind after a day of exploring.
3. CrailOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a serene getaway, Crail is a hidden gem that captures the essence of Scotland's coastal charm. With its beautiful beaches like Elie Beach and fascinating museums, it’s a great spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in local culture and history. The Fife Coastal Path runs nearby, providing opportunities for scenic hikes. Crail's laid-back vibe and stunning surroundings make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of larger towns.

Things to do in St. Andrews

St. Andrews is a charming coastal gem known for its stunning beaches, historic ruins, and lush landscapes. Enjoy a round of golf on world-renowned courses, stroll through scenic parks, or explore charming shops. With opportunities for boating and hiking, this destination offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure.

• St. Andrew's CathedralOpens in a new window – Explore the stunning ruins of this once-grand cathedral, where you can wander among the ancient stones and imagine the beautiful architecture that once stood tall. It offers a glimpse into the spiritual history of the area and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• St. Andrew's CastleOpens in a new window – Venture to St. Andrew's Castle, perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Discover its fascinating history as you walk through the remnants of the fortress, including the impressive bottle dungeon and the scenic views of the coastline that make this a perfect spot for photos.
• West SandsOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll along West Sands, a beautiful stretch of golden beach famous for its soft sands and rolling waves. This picturesque location is ideal for a relaxing day by the sea, building sandcastles, or enjoying a picnic with family and friends.
• The ScoresOpens in a new window – Walk along The Scores, a charming street that runs along the coastline, offering stunning vistas of the North Sea. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely walk, capture beautiful photographs, or simply take in the fresh sea breeze.
• V&A DundeeOpens in a new window – Visit V&A Dundee, an impressive museum showcasing design and innovation. Explore its unique exhibitions and collections that celebrate creativity, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in St. Andrews

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit St. Andrews is from January to March, when hotel prices may drop, making it an affordable option for travelers. To fully appreciate the city's historical and cultural landmarks, such as the stunning cathedral, the historic castle, and the beautiful beach, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy all the key attractions while ensuring great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals on hotels in St. Andrews, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don’t miss opportunities to save. The Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you find the best hotel deal. With alerts for price drops or room availability, you're more likely to secure a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a St. Andrews hotel. For those seeking unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If it happens to be on the higher end, we’ll recommend alternative dates that might be more affordable, helping you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to St. Andrews' excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that still offers great connectivity. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even nearby lesser-known cities, you can often find great value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in St. Andrews. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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 no 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.