Princes Street

Princes Street, the great artery of Edinburgh

The Edinburgh audio-guided tour takes you onto Princes Street, the city's main street, a shopping artery that marks the boundary between the new town and the old centre. Known for its many shops, it is a paradise for shopping.

A showcase of eighteenth-century architecture

Beyond the clothing, shoe and jewellery shops, Princes Street offers some of the finest examples of eighteenth-century architecture, from the time of the construction of the new town. Most of its buildings are listed among the historic monuments of Edinburgh, making it far more than a mere shopping street.

What there is to see

On one side of the street follow the shops, on the other stretch Princes Street Gardens, the great urban park of the city centre, dominated by the castle and the Scott Monument. This double perspective, between shops and gardens, offers one of the finest views of Edinburgh, with the old town as a backdrop.

Practical information

Princes Street crosses the centre of Edinburgh, on the boundary between the old town and the new. The street can be walked freely at all hours and on the level; the shops keep their own hours. Princes Street Gardens, which border it, are accessible during the day.

What can you do on Princes Street?

You can shop in many stores, admire the eighteenth-century architecture and enjoy Princes Street Gardens, with the view of the castle.

What does Princes Street mark in the city?

Princes Street marks the boundary between the new town and the old centre of Edinburgh. Most of its buildings are listed historic monuments.