New Town

Wide Georgian streets create breathing room after Old Town's medieval closeness, with uniform sandstone facades hiding upscale shops and restaurants behind classical columns. Business people in sharp suits stride past tourists photographing the castle views from Princes Street, while George Street hums with the click of heels on flagstones and the clink of glasses from pavement cafes. The atmosphere feels cosmopolitan and confident, befitting Scotland's financial centre, yet never loses sight of the dramatic castle and Arthur's Seat framing the views.

Built in the 18th century as a planned expansion across the valley from Old Town, New Town showcases Georgian architecture in perfectly preserved crescents and squares. Princes Street forms the southern boundary with its famous shopping strip facing Edinburgh Castle, while George Street runs parallel with designer boutiques and cocktail bars. The grid system makes navigation simple, while the consistent honey-colored sandstone creates an elegant uniformity that earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

New Town is known for princes street shopping, george street dining, scott monument, national gallery.

After dark: Sophisticated cocktail bars and wine bars along George Street, plus traditional pubs. More refined than Old Town's raucous atmosphere.

Best for: architecture enthusiasts, shoppers

Safety: Very safe at all hours with good street lighting and regular foot traffic

Walkability: Excellent walkability with wide pavements and grid layout, some hills but gentler than Old Town

Avoid if: You want historic atmosphere over modern convenience, or you're on a tight budget

• Shop along Princes Street with castle views as backdrop
• Dine on George Street in converted Georgian townhouses
• Climb Scott Monument for panoramic city views

Nearby attractions: Scott Monument, National Gallery of Scotland, Princes Street Gardens, Register House, St Andrew Square.

Local tip: George Street offers better dining and fewer crowds than Princes Street, with the same easy castle views

See our best things to do in Edinburgh or One Day in Edinburgh.

• The Dome (Modern European) - Georgian banking hall converted to restaurant with impressive dome ceiling £25-40 per person
• Contini George Street (Italian-Scottish) - Fresh pasta and Scottish ingredients in elegant Georgian setting £20-30 per person

Ideal for travellers who prefer modern amenities and easy shopping access while staying central. The Georgian architecture provides elegance without Old Town's medieval quirkiness, perfect for business travellers and couples seeking sophisticated surroundings.

• The Balmoral - luxury, £250-400/night. notable clock tower landmark with afternoon tea and Michelin dining
• Tigerlily - boutique, £100-180/night. Stylish Georgian townhouse with bold contemporary interiors

Direct access from Waverley Station via Princes Street. The North Bridge connects to Old Town. Parking available in St Andrew Square and other central car parks but expensive. Most attractions within 15 minutes' walk.

Nearest transport: Waverley Station at southern edge, multiple bus routes along Princes Street.