Princes Street
- Address: Edinburgh
- Hours: Partially closed for ticketed street party on New Year's Eve
- Admission: Free
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Good Place to Drink,
Good Place to Shop,
Popular with Locals,
Street / Avenue
Gracious Princes Street, with its epic length, gardens, stellar shopping, and knockout views, is the central vein of Edinburgh and one of Europe's great thoroughfares. It’s also at the center of the city’s world-famous Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) celebrations, which revolve around a massive street party. If you’re newly arrived in Edinburgh, a stroll along it is one of the finest ways to orient yourself.
Why Princes Street? Because it’s named after two of them – the sons of King George III. The street was hewn out as part of the building of the New Town in the 18th century. The Nor Loch, once a defence for the Castle was drained to make the gardens.
These days, Princes Street offers a variety of pleasures. Kick back in the gardens, particularly in spring, when weeping cherries and daffodils are working their charms. Enjoy the piquant contrast between, on one side of the road, the looming fronts of major chain stores (Marks and Spencer, Debenhams) and the opening out of Castle views on the other. Wander up and admire the neo-Gothic rocket that is the Scott Monument. In the mood for walking? Follow the length of the street to Leith.
Latest Reviews
Review by David P, April 2013
Doing what: Edinburgh City Hop-on Hop-off Tour
This was really a cool bus tour and I am glad that I booked it. Because we where only in Scotland a few days it allowed us to see much more than we would have seen on our own. I recommend this tour for anyone who has not visited Edinburgh; it will help you get familiar with the area and see sights that may not be within walking distance. It is easy to access the buses and hop on and off at the designated spots. We had a good time.
Review by Leticia G, April 2013
Doing what: Edinburgh City Hop-on Hop-off Tour
I used this sort of service when traveling abroad and it was a great way to make the most of my time. I honestly did some more expensive trips and felt like I got more out of this service mostly because I bypass other means of transportation and they provide you with a historical background. I highly recommend you do it especially because it is so affordable. No regrets.
Review by Theresa S, USA, April 2013
Doing what: Edinburgh City Hop-on Hop-off Tour
Great tour fun driver just to much snow and rain and very cold but still had a great time seeing the sights!
Practical Info
As you'd expect, all Princes Street buses will take you there.
