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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, couple trip

Princes Street Gardens (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Princes Street Gardens?

85%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 85% Couple-Friendly: Couples can picnic on lawns with castle backdrop, ride the Ferris wheel at Christmas, and enjoy sunset views from Scott Monument; crowds and traffic noise mean it is not fully secluded.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 26,428 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Entry: The gardens are open year-round without an admission fee.
  • Central Location: Situated between Old and New Town, easily reachable by tram, bus, or on foot.

Challenges:

  • Weather Exposure: Limited shelter means rain or strong wind can interrupt your visit.
  • Staircase Logistics: The Scott Monument’s narrow spiral stairs may feel cramped at peak times.
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What is Princes Street Gardens?

  • A landscaped urban park beneath Edinburgh Castle that occupies the former Nor Loch valley reclaimed in the 18th century
  • A Green Flag–accredited green space spanning East and West Gardens, showcasing formal lawns, mature trees and ornamental flowerbeds
  • Historic grounds featuring celebrated monuments and memorials such as the Scott Monument and Ross Fountain

What is so special about Princes Street Gardens for couple trip?

  1. Free green space framed by Edinburgh Castle and public monuments
  2. Panoramic 360° city views from the Scott Monument viewing platform
  3. Summer open-air concerts at the Ross Bandstand
  4. Seasonal ice rink and Edinburgh Eye rides in winter
  5. Easy access and no entry fee year-round

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to picnic, climb the Scott Monument, and catch a bandstand concert without rushing.

(View Princes Street Gardens on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Princes Street Gardens

Picnic on the lawn:

Spread a blanket on the west lawn with views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument.

Tip: Bring snacks from a café on Princes Street or pick up sandwiches to enjoy outdoors.

Climb the Scott Monument:

Ascend 287 narrow steps to reach the third-floor viewing platform for 360° city views.

Tip: Buy £9 tickets online in advance and aim for clear skies for best visibility.

Ross Bandstand concerts:

Enjoy free open-air summer concerts featuring folk, jazz, and dance performances.

Tip: Check the City of Edinburgh events calendar and bring a low-back chair or blanket.

When is the best time to visit Princes Street Gardens (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

From June to August, check the Ross Bandstand schedule for evening concerts. In November–January, book ice-skating and Edinburgh Eye tickets online to avoid sold-out slots.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Edinburgh on Trip.com

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Reviews of Princes Street Gardens (Edinburgh)

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cdakingtamudo

cdakingtamudo

Aug 2025

This garden has lovely scenery, under the Edinburgh castle. Come here for an escape from the city. It is well maintained and perfect for walks, and picnics. Lots of benches to sit and relax. There is a very good playground for the kids and a beautiful fountain

David Shemilt

David Shemilt

Aug 2025

A favourite place every time we are in the city. A lovely park, stunning views up to the castle and the royal mile. Has the national gallery next door and is a right next to the main shopping area. Nice to step into the calm of the park from the chaos of Princes st!! Photos attached are taken from Carlton Hill looking down on Princes street that the gardens run along side

Ehtesham Khan

Ehtesham Khan

Jul 2025

Its the jewel of Edinburgh for everyone. Filled with flowers, green fields, shady trees and historic monuments. Its to enjoy for residents and tourists of all types, be it nature lovers, flower fanatics or history lovers. To add onto everything else there is a small children's playground as well along with a small outdoor theatre/ concert arena. Always booming with life, princess street gardens is...

Catherine Hunt

Catherine Hunt

Jul 2025

This is a beautiful public park that has several monuments and attractions like the Scott Monument, Ross Fountain, and Floral Clock. It had a wonderful view of the castle. We visited Edinburgh during a weekday in June and there was an event.

Razan Ankour

Razan Ankour

Jun 2025

I loved the place. It's very spacious, great for walking and exercising, clean and tidy, and teeming with tourists. It has very ancient ruins. I didn't feel the time pass as I walked around and explored. What I liked most was the lake and its waters, and the weather was perfect for staying outside for a longer period.

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Scott Monument climb (2 adults)GBP 18
Edinburgh Eye Big Wheel (2 adults)GBP 18
Snacks and coffee (2 adults)GBP 8
Total EstimatedGBP 44

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Princes Street Gardens

  1. Early Arrival: Visit before noon to find a quiet spot on the lawns and avoid peak crowds.
  2. Combine Visits: Pair your walk with a free visit to the Scottish National Gallery right next door.
  3. Ticket Savings: Book Scott Monument and winter attraction tickets online for small discounts.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Edinburgh attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Princes Street Gardens

Address: Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Princes Street Gardens (Edinburgh)?

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About Princes Street Gardens

Opening Hours

Monday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Tuesday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Wednesday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Thursday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Friday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Saturday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM
Sunday:7:00 AM – 9:35 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Phone Number

+44 131 529 7921

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