8 Must-See Sights in New Town Edinburgh

This post is about New Town Edinburgh.

If you have been following along with my previous posts (Everything You Need to Know About Edinburgh, Scotland), Edinburgh has so much to offer in terms of sights, history, and activities. Last post, I talked about Old Town, so today I want to dive into the more modern side of Edinburgh — New Town! Stay until the end where I discuss more must do activities in this city too. Let’s discover what New Town is all about, shall we?

Sights of New Town Edinburgh

Prince’s Street

For more modern shopping, this is the place to be! You will find no shortage of places to spend your money on the most famous street in Edinburgh.

Rose Street in New Town Edinburgh

Looking for the restaurants of New Town? Look no further than this mostly pedestrian alleyway. I suggest taking a stroll in the evening when the overhead lights are twinkling.

Prince’s Street Park in New Town Edinburgh

This is easily one of my favorite spots in Edinburgh! Grab a pint and hope for a sunny afternoon to veg in this beautiful green space. You will see many people here in the warmer seasons taking a walk or soaking up the sun. This park is the big divider between New Town and Old Town

Sir Walter Scott Monument

Welcome to the largest monument for a writer in the entire world! Erected for the famous writer Sir Walter Scott, the rocket ship looking spires reside on Prince’s Street.

Dean Village

This adorable little hidden gem reminded me of Munchkinland from Wizard of Oz. If you are looking for a quieter outing in the city, this is perfect.

Circus Lane

Nearby, there is another popular street you’ve probably seen on Instagram. The few times we strolled down this street, we were only met by a couple of photographers trying to get that perfect shot. 

Outside New Town Edinburgh

Leith Walk

Less than a ten minute walk from our Airbnb was this lovely walkway along the water. If you followed it long enough, you could find yourself choosing between two amazing breakfast places! Toast and Mimi’s. Both incredibly delicious options, I couldn’t imagine having to decide between one or the other. Why not both?

Portobello Beach

Missing the beaches? This is the perfect city escape just a short bus ride away! Highly recommend taking a stroll or bringing a towel to lay out in the sand. Attempt a swim in the fridged water if you dare!

Arthur’s Seat

Up for a hike? This trek up the Craigs is totally worth the view! Just be prepared. The majority is uphill with some rocky areas, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes. Once you reach the top, reward yourself with the stunning city views! You’ll be able to see all of the top spots. I suggest going in the morning around 9am to avoid the fog that likes to cover the city. Climb too early, you won’t be able to see anything. Climb too late and you might get rained out.

Calton Hill

Not up for Arthur’s seat? A shorter hike is located a few blocks from downtown called Calton Hill. Although the steep 10-minute walk may make you want to give up, this view around sunset is spectacular! I highly recommend waiting until all of the light comes on around the castle and clocktower for a dazzling evening. Don’t want to walk? You can get an uber lift to the top!

Holyrood Palace

A historical estate located right at the bottom of Arthur’s seat, Holyrood Palace is a beautiful space to roam. Although you will need tickets to pass the gate. This is where the Queen of England stays whenever she visits Edinburgh! If you go at Christmas time, they have the interior completely decorated.

Need anymore convincing? Edinburgh should definitely go on everyone’s list of places to visit. It is simply a city not to be missed! Have you ever been? What was your favorite part?

This post is about New Town Edinburgh.