Spot the best hotels near Princes Street

Princes Street serves as the spirited heart of Edinburgh, offering a unique blend of grand architecture and open views of the historic castle. Strolling along this 1-mile long thoroughfare allows you to enjoy the lush greenery of the gardens on one side and a variety of shops on the other. It is an essential stop for anyone wanting to soak up the city's atmosphere while exploring the edge of the New Town, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This central thoroughfare serves as the dividing line between the medieval Old Town and the elegant New Town. You can stroll along the northern side to browse shops or stick to the southern side for an uninterrupted view of the castle and lush gardens.

The role of the street in the city

This long stretch of road serves as the primary artery for the capital and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. While many people come here for the shops, the southern side of the pavement is kept free of buildings to ensure the view of the skyline remains open. This design choice was made during the 18th century to create a grand, airy feel for the residents of the New Town.

It is home to several important civic structures, including the Scottish National Gallery and the Scott Monument, which stands 200 feet tall. These buildings turn the street into a cultural corridor where the city's intellectual and artistic history is on display for everyone to see.

Making the most of your visit

The pavement is wide and mostly flat, making it a comfortable 1-mile walk from one end to the other. If you want to avoid the largest crowds, try to arrive before 10:00, as the area becomes much busier by midday. Most of the institutional buildings along the way are accessible, though the narrow spiral stairs of the monuments may have restrictions for those with mobility issues.

Public benches are dotted all along the garden side, providing a place to rest every 100 yards or so. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding specific building access and seasonal schedules.

Amenities and local services

You will find plenty of practical features to help you get around, including clear maps at every major junction. There are frequent tram stops, such as the Princes Street tram stop and the West End tram stop, which connect you to the rest of the city in just a few minutes.

Public toilets and baby changing facilities are available within the large department stores and the Waverley Mall, located right next to Waverley Station. You can also find high-speed Wi-Fi in many of the cafes and public buildings that line the street. Be sure to check the official landmark site for current opening times and service availability.

Finding your way around Princes Street is simple because it sits right at the heart of the city. You will find plenty of places to stay nearby, ranging from grand traditional buildings to modern apartments, all within a short walk of the main shops and gardens.

Where to stay nearby

If you want to be in the middle of the action, look for a hotel in the New Town. This area is perfect for shoppers and those who want a room with a view of the castle. You can find high-end boutique spots here, many of which are housed in elegant Georgian townhouses just 500 feet from the main thoroughfare. For those travelling with children, the streets tucked behind the main shops offer quieter family-friendly suites that still keep you within a 5-minute walk of the gardens.

If you are watching your budget, head slightly north towards Broughton Street or the area around St James Quarter. These spots are less than 0.5 miles away and offer a mix of trendy guesthouses and reliable modern chains. Staying here means you are close to the local nightlife and great independent coffee shops, while still being able to reach the Institutional landmarks of the city centre in under 10 minutes on foot.

Getting to the area

You can reach the street easily from Edinburgh Waverley Station, which is located just 200 feet from the eastern end of the promenade. If you are arriving from the airport, the Edinburgh Trams run every 7 minutes and drop you off directly at the Princes Street Tram Stop. For those using the bus, the Edinburgh Bus Station at St Andrew Square is only a 3-minute walk away, making the whole area very accessible for everyone.

Stroll along Princes Street and find the perfect place to rest your head just 5 minutes away. By using eDreams, you can look at hotels that fit your style and budget in just a few clicks. Spot great deals on hotels overlooking the gardens without any fuss. Choosing a hotel near the shops is simple, letting you focus on the views. Start your Edinburgh adventure now and pick the right hotel for your trip. Your ideal stay is waiting, so go ahead and get it sorted.