Staying in New Town: choosing between its streets
The difference between a room on George Street and one near Queen Street can matter more than the distance on a map. Restaurants and late evening activity concentrate on some blocks, while residential entrances sit on others. Check whether your accommodation occupies an upper floor in a converted building, and whether a lift reaches it. Routes toward Stockbridge descend noticeably.
At a glance
- Best for
- Calm, shops, first visits
- At night
- Quiet
- Getting around
- Tram: Princes Street, St Andrew Square
- Price level
- €€€€
Georgian squares, wide streets and the best shops, a short climb below the Old Town.
Good for
- A calmer first visit, with the Old Town a short walk away
- Restaurants, shops and the main hotels
- Trams along Princes Street to Leith and the airport
Think twice if
- You want to wake up on the Royal Mile
- You are on a tight budget: hotels here cost more
- You want nightlife: the streets are quiet late on weeknights
What is near New Town
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
From the eastern end of George Street, walk about 7 minutes along the connecting streets toward Queen Street.
Princes Street Gardens
Allow about 5 minutes from George Street via Hanover Street to reach the gardens below the main shopping street.
Calton Hill
From St Andrew Square, allow about 15 minutes to reach the summit via Waterloo Place and the uphill path.
Eating in New Town
George Street has plenty of sit-down dining, while Rose Street offers pubs and casual meals. Café Royal Oyster Bar is close to the eastern end of Princes Street. For breakfast, check whether your accommodation provides it, as converted flats may leave you relying on nearby cafés.
Getting around from New Town
Princes Street and St Andrew Square are useful tram stops, depending on your address. Waverley lies below the eastern end of the neighborhood, with routes up toward Princes Street. Buses run along several main streets. Walking south into Old Town involves crossing the valley and climbing again.
Hotels in New Town
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Other areas of Edinburgh
Staying in New Town: choosing between its streets
Does a New Town address guarantee lift access?
No. Accommodation in older buildings may occupy upper floors reached by stairs. Ask whether a lift serves your room and whether there are steps at the entrance.
Are Queen Street Gardens open to visitors?
The central Queen Street Gardens are private. For a public garden break, head toward Princes Street Gardens and check the notices at its entrances.
Which tram stop should I use?
Princes Street suits many western and central addresses, while St Andrew Square suits the eastern side. Compare the walk from each stop with your exact accommodation entrance.