Edinburgh New Town

What are the highlights and features of Edinburgh’s New Town?

The New Town's neat and ordered grid pattern is a pleasant contrast to the maze-like Old Town nearby. On the western edge of the area is Charlotte Square. The massive plaza, with a private garden in the center, is surrounded by stunning examples of 18th-century architecture. Visit the exquisite Georgian House to see for yourself how the wealthy lived 200 years ago.

A 15-minute walk away is the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, where you can discover Scotland's most significant historical figures through paintings and photographs. Head south, past St Andrew Square (a mirror image of Charlotte Square) and climb the 287 steps up to the Scott Monument. Dedicated to writer Sir Walter Scott, it's one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks. The vistas from the viewing platform are breathtaking.

If you want to stretch your legs some more, walk up to Calton Hill on the eastern end of New Town. The hilltop is home to a couple of famous buildings including the National Monument. The views are incomparable, as are the photos you can capture of the sun setting (or rising) over the picturesque city.

How are the shopping and dining scenes in New Town Edinburgh?

For those who love a bit of retail therapy and upscale dining, the New Town has many delightful spots. On the southern edge of the New Town, Princes Street is the main shopping street in Edinburgh. Strolling down the broad avenue, you can find dozens of flagship stores from well-known retailers, including Topshop, H&M and Jenners department store – an 1838 Edinburgh institution.

Running parallel to Princes Street is George Street. The street is packed with some of Edinburgh's trendiest boutiques and high-end stores. Multrees Walk, a luxury shopping mall on St Andrew Square, is home to exclusive brands like Burberry, Louis Vuitton and the only Harvey Nichols in Scotland.

When the sun goes down, George Street is where the party's at – although you'll likely wind up here no matter where you start the evening. From sipping on cocktails at atmospheric bars and enjoying a local ale at a friendly pub to dancing 'til the wee hours of the morning at a swanky nightclub, the street has all the nighttime fun.

What are good things to know about the New Town?

For a quieter, less touristy, shopping experience, West End Village is a secret spot hidden between Haymarket station and Princes Street. The village streets are lined with unique gift shops and boutiques and cute cafés and cocktail bars.

Walking is the best way to explore the New Town. You can easily reach the New Town on all forms of public transportation. Streetcars run along Princes Street, and the St Andrew bus station and Waverley railroad station are here, too. After exploring the New Town, you can enjoy a short walk past the lush Princes Gardens and into the labyrinthine medieval Old Town.