
Princes Street Edinburgh
Edinburgh's premier shopping street, offering iconic castle views and access to the beautiful Princes Street Gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming gardens, fewer crowds

Princes Street Edinburgh
Best Time
Blooming gardens, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edinburgh's premier shopping street, offering iconic castle views and access to the beautiful Princes Street Gardens.
"The views of Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street are simply unforgettable."

📸 Capture the Castle
Get your best Edinburgh Castle shots from Princes Street. Early morning light is magical!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the street and gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Edinburgh Castle Views
Princes Street
Iconic castle views dominate the streetscape, offering a dramatic backdrop to your stroll.

Princes Street Gardens
Adjacent to Princes Street
A lush oasis perfect for a peaceful break, featuring fountains and floral displays.

Ross Fountain
Princes Street Gardens
A magnificent Victorian fountain, a picturesque spot for photos and relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Plan Your Pace
Beyond the Shops: Gardens & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Castle
Get your best Edinburgh Castle shots from Princes Street. Early morning light is magical!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the street and gardens.
🌳 Relax in the Gardens
Don't just walk past; take time to enjoy the beauty of Princes Street Gardens.
💡 Look for Hidden Gems
Beyond the main shops, discover unique spots and historical markers.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Castle
Get your best Edinburgh Castle shots from Princes Street. Early morning light is magical!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the street and gardens.
🌳 Relax in the Gardens
Don't just walk past; take time to enjoy the beauty of Princes Street Gardens.
💡 Look for Hidden Gems
Beyond the main shops, discover unique spots and historical markers.
☕️ Grab a Coffee Break
Plenty of cafes along Princes Street for a warm drink and people-watching.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Princes Street is celebrated for its breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle and the vibrant atmosphere of its adjacent gardens. Visitors appreciate the convenience for shopping and its central location. However, some find the street overly commercialized and can be disappointed by the lack of historic architecture compared to other parts of the city.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Princes Street is easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop directly along the street, and Edinburgh Waverley train station is located at the east end, making it a convenient arrival point. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Princes Street can be challenging and expensive. Several multi-story car parks are available nearby, such as the St James Quarter car park or the NCP car park on Castle Terrace. It's often recommended to use public transport if possible.
Yes, Princes Street is very walkable from many of Edinburgh's key attractions. It's a short stroll from the Royal Mile and the Old Town, and within easy reach of the National Museum of Scotland.
The best way to explore Princes Street is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the views, browse the shops at your leisure, and easily access Princes Street Gardens.
Many guided walking tours of Edinburgh include Princes Street and its gardens as part of their itinerary, often highlighting the historical significance and offering great photo opportunities of the castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Princes Street itself is a public thoroughfare and does not require an entry ticket. You can freely walk along the street and explore the shops.
Princes Street Gardens are free to enter and explore. You can wander through the various sections, enjoy the floral displays, and relax by the Ross Fountain without any charge.
Princes Street is a public street, so it is accessible 24/7. However, individual shop opening hours will vary, typically from around 9 or 10 AM to 5 or 6 PM, with some staying open later.
Princes Street and its gardens often host events, especially during festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe or Hogmanay. Check local listings for any upcoming events during your visit.
The Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens is a public feature and can be admired free of charge. It's a popular spot for photos, especially when illuminated.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Princes Street is Edinburgh's primary shopping destination, featuring a wide range of high street brands, department stores, and popular retailers. You'll find everything from fashion and electronics to souvenirs.
While Princes Street is more known for shopping, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries along the street and in the adjacent St James Quarter, offering diverse dining options.
Yes, you can find traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants just a short walk from Princes Street, particularly in the Old Town and Grassmarket areas, offering classic dishes like haggis and Cullen skink.
Several cafes offer a welcome respite. Look for popular chains or independent coffee shops dotted along the street for a coffee and a pastry.
Yes, Princes Street has many shops selling souvenirs, from tartan goods and whisky to novelty items, making it a convenient spot to pick up gifts.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is capturing Edinburgh Castle from the street. Princes Street Gardens, especially with the Ross Fountain, also offers beautiful compositions.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds for capturing the castle. Golden hour in the late afternoon provides a warm glow over the city.
Generally, photography is permitted on Princes Street and in the gardens for personal use. Be mindful of private businesses and any specific signage.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide streetscapes and closer details of the castle. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots, but be mindful of crowds.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas like Edinburgh due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check with local authorities before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the shops on Princes Street might appeal more to adults, the gardens offer plenty of space for children to explore. Consider visiting during warmer months when the gardens are in full bloom, adding an extra layer of visual interest for younger visitors. The proximity to other family-friendly attractions in Edinburgh also makes it a convenient location.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive cafes, consider picking up some snacks or sandwiches from a local supermarket and having a picnic in the gardens. This is a highly recommended way to save money while still enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Many of the best photo opportunities are also free!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different times of day for varied lighting. Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, while golden hour provides a warm, dramatic glow. The gardens themselves offer numerous compositions with flowers, trees, and the castle peeking through.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of Princes Street
The current Princes Street is characterized by its shops on the north side and the expansive Princes Street Gardens on the south. This unique layout provides unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town, creating a striking contrast between the modern commercial street and the historic cityscape. The gardens themselves are a vital green lung for the city, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.
Visitors often marvel at the juxtaposition of the vibrant shopping street with the ancient castle looming above. This visual dynamic is a significant draw, offering a quintessential Edinburgh experience. The street also serves as a central hub for public transport, making it a convenient starting point for exploring other parts of the city.
Exploring Princes Street Gardens
Key attractions within the gardens include the iconic Ross Fountain, a magnificent Victorian structure that is a popular spot for photos, especially when illuminated. You'll also find various floral displays, bandstands, and memorials scattered throughout the park. The Gardener's Cottage is a charming feature, adding to the picturesque landscape.
The gardens offer fantastic vantage points for viewing Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument. They are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply to relax and enjoy the scenery. During summer, the gardens often host open-air concerts and events, adding to their vibrant atmosphere.
The Johnnie Walker Experience
The experience goes beyond just tasting. Visitors can learn about the history of Johnnie Walker, explore different whisky expressions, and enjoy curated tasting sessions. The venue often features interactive exhibits and offers a sophisticated atmosphere for appreciating Scotch whisky.
It's a notable addition to the Princes Street area, providing a premium attraction that complements the shopping and historical sights. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit