[Must-Sees] Top 10 Things To Do in New Town Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s New Town, which was created in the middle to late 18th century as a result of overcrowding in what is now the Old Town, has developed into a true wonder of urban planning and tasteful Neo-Classical architecture. From Princes Street to Castle Terrace, we have listed the must-see locations here.

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[Must-Sees] Top 10 Things To Do in New Town Edinburgh Travel Pixy — Edinburgh Castle | © Craig Cormack Follow / Flickr

National Portrait Gallery of Scotland

The Scottish National Gallery is on the Mound, and the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art is to the north-west, close to Stockbridge, making Edinburgh’s New Town the artistic hub of the city. All three national art galleries are nearby. The National Portrait Gallery consistently ranks as this group’s most exciting draw for visitors.

+1 131 624 6200, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen St., Edinburgh, Scotland

The Scott Monument

Scotland’s national memorial to Sir Walter Scott, one of its most well-known sons, towers over Princes Street Gardens. Those who brave the climb will be rewarded with some of the most breath-taking views of the city, so it may not be for the faint of heart.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s E. Princes St Gardens, The Scott Monument, +44 131 529 4068

Edinburgh Playhouse

Most of the North American national touring musicals are welcomed at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Youth musical theater, acapella revues, and well-known stand-up comedians are also featured on a regular basis. However, stories of the allegedly resident ghost, Albert, who is said to haunt the sixth level and can be felt as a sudden chill in the air, may cause superstitious concertgoers to pause.

Edinburgh Playhouse is located at 18–22 Greenside Lane and can be reached at (844) 871 301.

Calton Hill

At the eastern end of Princes Street, Calton Hill offers a manageable ascent. Robert Louis Stevenson loved the view of Prince Street from this hilltop, and the collection of monuments that occupy this hillside is among the most important architectural pieces in all of Edinburgh. Calton Hill is the best place to view fireworks if you happen to be in town for one of the many displays Edinburgh puts on throughout the year.

Charlotte Square/Georgian House

Charlotte Square stands out as the most exemplary example of this striking architectural style in the Georgian townhouse composition of the New Town. Visitors to the city can find several attractions on the square. If you’re in town in the summer, the Edinburgh International Book Festival is centered in the garden in the middle of Charlotte Square.

+1 131 226 3318 Georgian House, 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, Scotland

Princes Street and George Street

Edinburgh’s Princes and George Streets are the best location for retail therapy. In addition to the usual high street suspects, be sure to visit the historic Jenners department store or simply walk by to take in its ornate Victorian facade. A picturesque location for picnics and family outings has been created in the Princes Street Gardens.

Scotland’s Princes Street, in Edinburgh

Panda and Sons

Panda and Sons in the New Town is recommended for those looking for a traditional speakeasy experience. It is cleverly hidden behind a cute vintage barber shop facade, complete with a faux bookcase doorway and an antique blow-dry chair in the foyer. A great cocktail bar is concealed behind this red herring of a threshold, which can be reached afterward.

Fortitude Coffee Merchants

Fortitude Coffee Merchants is a small but brisk supplier of flavorful coffees that are sourced ethically. It’s the ideal place to stop if you just want a quick cappuccino, and it’s on York Place. Fortitude is a delightful weekend afternoon hideaway because of their delectable brews, fantastic selection of newspapers, and cakes.

The Honours

At The Honours, renowned chef Martin Wishart from Edinburgh has added his own flair to French bistro cuisine. The brasserie food is served to diners on trolleys, and a small army of servers quickly attends to each table, keeping glasses filled and crumbs swept away. The gold leaf decor and chandeliers evoke a mood of Parisian Belle Époque.

Edinburgh Farmers Market

The 15-year-old Edinburgh Farmers Market is home to more than 50 specialized producers who grow and raise the local fresh goods they sell. Many of these reputable vendors offer free samples of their products, so try them before you buy.

Topic: [Must-Sees] Top 10 Things To Do in New Town Edinburgh

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