Princes Street (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Princes Street?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Views of the castle from gardens, benches for sunset, nearby dining and the Scott Monument climb give pairs a varied, romantic outing, though weekend crowds cut intimacy.
Positives:
- Central Access: Princes Street runs through the heart of Edinburgh, connecting gardens, shops, and landmarks without transport.
- Free Attractions: Strolling the gardens and visiting the National Gallery cost nothing, leaving room for other splurges.
Challenges:
- Crowds and Traffic: The street gets busy with buses, trams, and festival crowds, which can slow down your stroll.
- Weather Exposure: Few covered areas mean wind and rain can interrupt outdoor activities.
What is Princes Street?
- A principal east–west thoroughfare in central Edinburgh, running 1.5 km from Lothian Road to Calton Hill
- The city’s main shopping artery, lined with flagship retailers, period hotels and Victorian monuments
- An urban spine that separates the medieval Old Town from the Georgian New Town, bordered by Princes Street Gardens to the south
What is so special about Princes Street for couple trip?
- Hand-in-hand walks in historic gardens with castle views
- Panoramic city vistas from the Scott Monument and Festival Wheel
- Free entry to art exhibitions off The Mound
- Festive lights and markets in winter, extended daylight for summer strolls
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can stroll, shop, and enjoy key landmarks at a relaxed pace within this time.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Princes Street
Stroll Princes Street Gardens:
Walk hand-in-hand beneath the Scott Monument and past the Ross Fountain with castle views.
Tip: Visit at golden hour for soft light and quieter paths.
Climb the Scott Monument:
Ascend 287 narrow steps to reach small platforms offering 360° city vistas.
Tip: Buy tickets (£8 per person) at the gardens kiosk to skip lines.
Ride the Edinburgh Festival Wheel:
Board enclosed gondolas for three full rotations at 42 m above East Gardens.
Tip: Book online during festival season to secure a sunset ride.
Visit the National Gallery of Scotland:
Browse Scotland’s national art collection in a neoclassical building off The Mound.
Tip: Enjoy free entry and grab a table at the café overlooking the gardens.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Princes Street
- Early or Late Visits: Start your stroll before 10 AM or after 6 PM to avoid peak crowds and catch softer light.
- Prebook Tickets: Reserve wheel and monument tickets online to skip onsite queues during high season.
- Use Public Benches: Rest at benches in the gardens while sipping takeaway coffee for quick breaks.
Reviews of Princes Street
Anh Quân Lê
I came here at Christmas time and it was such a great experience. The night market, the small games, and the local vibe made it feel so different from the modern UK atmosphere—but that’s exactly what made it worth visiting.
Daniel Rodríguez Hernández
The main road of Edinburgh. Impressive gardens, views, shops and hotels. At least the 80% of the buses stops there and the main train station.
Sam Neil Paul
Princes Street brings all of the action of Edinburgh together - offering a way to access up to the Old Town, towards the National Monument, the beautiful adjacent Princes Street Gardens and many many museums that are nearby. The view from this street is utterly jaw dropping at times, with landmarks scattered all around you in all directions.
Carrie
Great place, lots of shops. Just lack of public outdoor bins - had to take my rubbish on the bus as I wouldn't have been able to get to a bin and back on time
Fiona Fairchild
You have a decent range of shops, cafes, park, museums & good views of the castle all accessible from this one street. Great vibe.
When is the best time to visit Princes Street (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In December, explore the Christmas Market lights and festive stalls after dusk. For Hogmanay, join free concerts and fireworks along the street. In summer, take late-evening strolls under extended daylight.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Scott Monument climb (2 adults) | GBP 16 |
| Festival Wheel ride (2 adults) | GBP 16 |
| Coffee stop at A Pinch of Salt | GBP 10 |
| Light meal or snacks | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 57 |
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
Map of Princes Street
Address: Princes St, Edinburgh, UK
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