Princes Street, Edinburgh - A person with a backpack standing in a field
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Princes Street Edinburgh

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Edinburgh's iconic shopping boulevard, offering stunning castle views, diverse retail, and access to beautiful gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better shopping

CrowdLow
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Princes Street, Edinburgh - A person with a backpack standing in a field

Princes Street Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Edinburgh's iconic shopping boulevard, offering stunning castle views, diverse retail, and access to beautiful gardens.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Princes Street brings all of the action of Edinburgh together - offering a way to access up to the Old Town, towards the National Monument, the beautiful adjacent Princes Street Gardens and many many museums that are nearby."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Castle Views from Cafes

Grab a coffee at a Princes Street cafe for unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views.

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Old Town

Skip the steep steps! Turn left from Waverley Station and walk up Cockburn Street for an easier route to the Royal Mile.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scott Monument

Scott Monument

Princes Street

A magnificent Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, offering incredible architecture and city views.

Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens

Adjacent to Princes Street

A beautiful green oasis offering a peaceful escape with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.

Shopping Boulevard

Shopping Boulevard

Princes Street

Explore a vibrant mix of high-street brands, department stores, and unique boutiques for a true retail experience.

Castle Views

Castle Views

Various points along Princes Street

Enjoy breathtaking, iconic views of Edinburgh Castle, especially from cafes and hotels on the street.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Views, Plan Your Route

Princes Street offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town skyline. Plan your walk to take advantage of these vistas, especially from the cafes along the street. Be prepared for hills and stairs when moving between Princes Street and the Old Town.

Shop Smart, Visit Off-Peak

While Princes Street is a shopper's paradise, it can get very busy, especially during events like the Fringe and Military Tattoo. Consider visiting during weekdays or outside of major event seasons for a more relaxed experience and better access to shops and cafes.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (off-season)
Why
Magical castle views
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals
Why
Electric atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect Edinburgh Scotland Itinerary! It’s like Hogwarts in real life and is even better than I imagined!! Here are some of my favorite things to do during a weekend in Edinburgh! P.s. While we do mentiom Harry Potter a few times, we do not support JK and she makes no money off of this!! #e#edinburghs#Scotlands#scotlandtravele#edinburghscotlandh#harrypotterh#hogwartsd#diagonalleyw#weekendg...
@followmeaway
240.9K likes • 4.4M views

🎯 Castle Views from Cafes

Grab a coffee at a Princes Street cafe for unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Old Town

Skip the steep steps! Turn left from Waverley Station and walk up Cockburn Street for an easier route to the Royal Mile. TikTok

Advice for Tourists #fy #fyp #fypシ #foryou #travel #traveltok #travelbucketlist #traveltips #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #edinburgh #edfringe #edinburghfringe #visitscotland #hiddengems #travelinspiration #familydayout #edinburghzoo #edinburghhiddengems #explore #viral #traveltiktok #TikTokTaughtMe #hiddengem #hiddenscotland #thingstodoinedinburgh
@auldedinburgh
202.7K likes • 1.8M views
This and no deadlines ♥️ Taking full advantage of the slow mornings and Edinburgh being a little quieter.. for now! Skirt: @anthropologieeu Blouse: @anthropologieeu Shoes: @boden
mylittleedinburgh
2.8K likes • 37K views

🛍️ Shop 'til you drop!

Princes Street is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of stores. Reddit

🌳 Relax in Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful break in the beautiful gardens, offering a green escape and castle vistas. TikTok

How to spend a solo day in Edinburgh - save for later 📍 1. Head to Greenwood’s for a massive breakfast/brunch (portion sizes are huge and don’t forget to order the peanut butter salted caramel latte it’s incredible) 2. Enjoy all the gorgeous architecture whilst walking to Stockbridge and enjoy time in this trendy neighbourhood 3. Visit Circus Lane in Stockbridge, the picture perfect cobbled stre...
scraninstyle
243 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Castle Views from Cafes

Grab a coffee at a Princes Street cafe for unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Old Town

Skip the steep steps! Turn left from Waverley Station and walk up Cockburn Street for an easier route to the Royal Mile. TikTok

🛍️ Shop 'til you drop!

Princes Street is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of stores. Reddit

🌳 Relax in Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful break in the beautiful gardens, offering a green escape and castle vistas. TikTok

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, and some areas have inclines and stairs. TikTok

📅 Check for Events

Princes Street gets very busy during festivals like the Fringe and Military Tattoo. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Princes Street is celebrated as Edinburgh's vibrant shopping and sightseeing hub, offering a fantastic blend of retail, dining, and breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle. Visitors appreciate the convenience, the lively atmosphere, and the accessibility to key attractions. However, some find the street can lack public bins and can become overwhelmingly crowded during major events.

"You have a decent range of shops, cafes, park, museums & good views of the castle all accessible from this one street. Great vibe."

Fiona Fairchild

"Great place, lots of shops. Just lack of public outdoor bins - had to take my rubbish on the bus as I wouldn't have been able to get to a bin and back on time"

Carrie

"Princes Street brings all of the action of Edinburgh together - offering a way to access up to the Old Town, towards the National Monument, the beautiful adjacent Princes Street Gardens and many many museums that are nearby. The view from this street is utterly jaw dropping at times, with landmarks scattered all around you in all directions."

Sam Neil Paul

What People Like

Stunning castle views
Wide range of shops
Central location

What People Dislike

Lack of public bins
Can be very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Waverley Station, you can easily walk to Princes Street. For a less strenuous route, especially with luggage, turn left out of the station and head up Cockburn Street, which leads directly to the Royal Mile and connects to Princes Street. TikTok

Yes, Princes Street is very well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop along the street, and it's a short walk from Waverley Train Station, making it easily accessible for visitors. Reddit

Driving directly onto Princes Street is restricted for most vehicles. There are several car parks nearby, such as the St James Quarter car park or the Holyrood Road car park, from which you can walk or take a short bus ride to Princes Street. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore Princes Street and its surroundings. You can easily stroll along the street, pop into shops, and then descend into Princes Street Gardens. For access to the Old Town, be prepared for some uphill walks or use the connecting streets. TikTok

Yes, Edinburgh has park and ride facilities on the outskirts of the city. You can park your car and take a bus or tram into the city centre, which will drop you off within walking distance of Princes Street. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Princes Street itself is a public thoroughfare and does not require tickets to access. You can walk along it freely. However, specific attractions on or near Princes Street, like the Scott Monument or Camera Obscura, may have admission fees. TikTok

Princes Street is a public street, so it's accessible 24/7. However, individual shops and cafes will have their own operating hours, typically from around 9 or 10 AM to 5:30 or 6 PM, with some staying open later. Reddit

Yes, walking along Princes Street, enjoying the views of Edinburgh Castle, and exploring Princes Street Gardens are all free activities. The National Museum of Scotland is also nearby and free to enter. TikTok

Princes Street Gardens are free to enter and explore. It's a public park offering a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. TikTok

Tickets for attractions like the Scott Monument or Camera Obscura can usually be purchased on-site. For popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle (which is visible from Princes Street but not directly on it), it's advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Princes Street offers a wide variety of shops, including major high-street fashion brands, department stores, and some technology retailers. You'll find everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and gifts. Reddit

Yes, Princes Street has numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs. You can find options ranging from quick bites and coffee shops to more formal dining experiences. Some cafes offer great views of the castle. TikTok+1

Several cafes and hotels along Princes Street boast excellent views of Edinburgh Castle. TikTok creators often highlight spots like the Starbucks on Princes Street for its views. TikTok+1

While Princes Street is known for its high-street chains, you can also find some local shops and souvenir stores. For more unique boutiques, exploring the nearby Old Town or Stockbridge is recommended. Reddit

Most shops on Princes Street open around 9 or 10 AM and close between 5:30 PM and 7 PM. Some larger stores or those in shopping centres might have slightly extended hours. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The entire length of Princes Street offers fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle. For the most iconic shots, position yourself with the castle framed by the Scott Monument or from the Princes Street Gardens. Instagram

Absolutely! Princes Street Gardens provides a beautiful foreground for castle photos, with the Ross Fountain and floral displays adding to the scenery. It's also a great spot for capturing the grandeur of the Scott Monument. TikTok

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photographing Edinburgh Castle and the streetscape. Evenings can be magical with the castle illuminated. Instagram

Generally, you can take photos inside shops for personal use, but it's always polite to ask staff if you're unsure, especially if you're taking many pictures or using a professional camera. Reddit

For panoramic views that include Princes Street and the surrounding cityscape, consider heading up Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat. From within Princes Street itself, the top of the Scott Monument offers excellent elevated views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Princes Street offers a good starting point for families exploring Edinburgh. The wide pavements and numerous shops can keep younger ones entertained, and the adjacent Princes Street Gardens provide a safe space for them to run around. TikTok Consider a visit to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, located near the top of the street, which is a hit with children. TikTok While the shopping might appeal more to adults, the iconic views of Edinburgh Castle and the open space of the gardens make it a pleasant experience for all ages. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as well as comfortable shoes for navigating the city's inclines. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Princes Street offers several budget-friendly options. Walking along the street and enjoying the views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens is completely free. TikTok Many cafes offer affordable coffee and pastries, and you can find budget-friendly meal deals in some of the larger stores or fast-food chains. TikTok For free attractions, the National Museum of Scotland is nearby. TikTok Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and potentially find better deals on accommodation in hotels like Premier Inn or EasyHotel on or near Princes Street. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Princes Street is a photographer's dream, offering iconic views of Edinburgh Castle from multiple angles. Instagram Capture the castle framed by the Scott Monument, or use the Princes Street Gardens as a foreground for a more expansive shot. TikTok The street itself, with its mix of architecture and bustling atmosphere, provides ample opportunities for urban photography. For the best light, aim for sunrise or sunset, and don't forget to explore the charming side streets for unique perspectives. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Edinburgh's Terrain: Hills and Stairs

Edinburgh is a city built on hills, and Princes Street is no exception. While the street itself is relatively flat, accessing the Old Town from Princes Street involves navigating significant inclines and numerous staircases. TikTok creators often highlight this, with one tip suggesting that if you're carrying heavy luggage from Waverley Station, it's easier to walk up Cockburn Street rather than the notoriously steep Warriston's Steps to reach the Royal Mile. TikTok Be prepared for a workout if you plan to explore both the New Town (where Princes Street is located) and the Old Town extensively. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring Edinburgh's charming but sometimes challenging terrain. TikTok

Princes Street Gardens, situated below Princes Street, offers a more level walking experience. However, to get from the gardens up to the Royal Mile, you'll encounter more stairs. This unique topography contributes to Edinburgh's dramatic skyline and offers rewarding views, but it's a key factor to consider when planning your daily itinerary and energy levels. Reddit

Shopping and Dining Delights on Princes Street

Princes Street is Edinburgh's premier shopping destination, boasting a wide array of high-street brands, department stores, and popular retailers. From fashion and accessories to technology and souvenirs, shoppers can find almost anything they need. Reddit Many visitors enjoy the convenience of having such a diverse retail selection right in the city centre. The street also offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service cafes and bakeries to pubs and restaurants. Reddit

For those seeking a memorable dining experience, several cafes and hotels along Princes Street are renowned for their spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle. TikTok+1 These spots are perfect for enjoying a meal or a coffee while taking in the iconic Scottish landmark. While Princes Street is dominated by chain stores, exploring the side streets and nearby areas can reveal more independent boutiques and unique eateries. Reddit

The Iconic Views of Edinburgh Castle

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Princes Street is the unparalleled, postcard-perfect view of Edinburgh Castle. The street runs along the northern edge of the Old Town, with the majestic castle perched atop its volcanic rock, creating a dramatic and unforgettable panorama. InstagramReddit This view is consistently highlighted by visitors and content creators alike as a major draw. Whether you're strolling along the street, relaxing in Princes Street Gardens, or enjoying a meal at a cafe, the castle is a constant, awe-inspiring presence. TikTok+1

To capture the best photographs, consider visiting during the golden hour for soft, warm light, or in the evening when the castle is beautifully illuminated. Instagram The Scott Monument, a striking Gothic structure on Princes Street, also offers a fantastic vantage point for capturing both the castle and the cityscape. TikTok The juxtaposition of the bustling modern street with the ancient fortress provides a unique visual experience that defines Edinburgh's charm.

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