Princes Street, Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.

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Princes Street is Edinburgh’s iconic main shopping street, stretching about a mile through the New Town with bustling shops on one side and the scenic Princes Street Gardens on the other. This vibrant thoroughfare offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town skyline, blending historic charm with modern retail and cultural landmarks such as the Scott Monument and the Scottish National Gallery.

A brief summary to Princes St

Edinburgh, GB
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Visit the Scott Monument and climb its 287 steps for panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline.
Explore Princes Street Gardens, especially the Ross Fountain and the Floral Clock, for picturesque photo opportunities.
Experience the Winter Wonderland in December with festive markets, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel.
Check out the Scottish National Gallery atop The Mound for free access to world-class art collections.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street stop, located approximately 5-10 minutes from the city center. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £1.80-£4.50 depending on zones. Buses also serve Princes Street from various parts of the city with similar travel times and fares.
Train

Arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station, a major rail hub located adjacent to Princes Street. From the station, it is a 5-7 minute walk to the heart of Princes Street. Train fares vary widely depending on origin but the station offers excellent connectivity across Scotland and the UK.
Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly on Princes Street. Travel time from Edinburgh Airport is about 25-35 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically ranging from £20 to £30.
Walking

If staying nearby in Edinburgh’s city center or Old Town, Princes Street is accessible on foot within 10-20 minutes across mostly flat terrain. Walking allows you to enjoy the city’s architecture and street life en route.

Princes St location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather

Discover more about Princes St

The Heart of Edinburgh’s New Town

Princes Street is the principal street in Edinburgh’s New Town, laid out in the late 18th century during the reign of King George III. Named after his two sons, Princes George and Frederick, this street was originally a prestigious residential area for the wealthy, many of whose elegant 18th-century townhouses still stand, albeit repurposed as shops and businesses. Today, Princes Street is a bustling retail hub lined with popular high street stores, cafes, banks, and hotels, making it a vital artery for both locals and visitors.

Princes Street Gardens: A Green Oasis

Running along the south side of Princes Street, Princes Street Gardens is a large, historic public park that separates the New Town from Edinburgh’s Old Town. The gardens occupy the drained site of the Nor Loch, a former marsh and medieval defensive barrier. Opened in 1820, the gardens are divided into East and West sections by The Mound, an artificial hill crowned by the Scottish National Gallery. The gardens feature notable monuments including the Ross Fountain, the Scott Monument, and the Floral Clock, and serve as a popular venue for seasonal events such as the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market.

Architectural and Cultural Landmarks

Princes Street is framed by striking landmarks that enrich its character. The Scott Monument, a towering Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, offers panoramic views of the city from its viewing platforms. Nearby, the Scottish National Gallery houses a renowned collection of European and Scottish art in a neoclassical building designed by William Henry Playfair. The street also features historic hotels like The Balmoral and Caledonian, adding to the architectural diversity.

Festive Atmosphere and Events

Princes Street and its gardens transform during the festive season into a lively Winter Wonderland, complete with a Christmas market, ice rink, Ferris wheel, and family-friendly attractions. The street also plays a central role in Edinburgh’s Hogmanay New Year celebrations, hosting one of the world’s most famous street parties. Throughout the year, the Ross Bandstand in the gardens hosts concerts and cultural events, making Princes Street a vibrant social and entertainment hub.

Historical Significance and Stories

The site of Princes Street Gardens was once the Nor Loch, infamous for its use in medieval times as a defensive moat and a place associated with grim practices such as witch ducking. The transformation from marshland to manicured gardens symbolizes Edinburgh’s evolution from a fortified medieval city to a modern capital. Statues and memorials scattered throughout the gardens commemorate notable Scots and historical events, including the Polish soldier bear Wojtek, linking Scotland’s heritage to global stories.

Visitor Experience and Views

Visitors to Princes Street enjoy a dynamic blend of shopping, history, and scenic beauty. The street offers unparalleled views across the gardens to the dramatic Castle Rock and Old Town skyline. The gardens provide tranquil green space amidst the urban bustle, ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and relaxation. With its combination of cultural institutions, historic monuments, and vibrant retail, Princes Street remains a quintessential Edinburgh experience.