Exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town vs. New Town: What to See in Both

Jul 22

Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities: the medieval Old Town with its cobbled streets and the Georgian symmetry of New Town. Each neighborhood offers its own unique sights and experiences.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to explore both sides of Edinburgh to make the most out of your trip to bonnie wee Scotland.

Old Town: A Journey Through Time

As you meander through the medieval maze of closes, you can’t help but feel the city’s ancient soul. Make your way to the top of the Royal Mile, which gets its name because it connects the Royal Palace with Edinburgh Castle.

The Castle is a must-stop if it’s your first or tenth time visiting Edinburgh. Situated on the aptly named Castle Rock, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Arrive early to beat the crowds, but stick around for the firing of the 1 o’clock gun. Why not noon? The Scots are known for their frugality, and saving the 11 loads of gunpowder is too good a deal to pass up.

Heading down the Royal Mile, you’ll notice the giant gothic crown-shaped spire of our next stop St. Giles Cathedral. Inside, the stunning Gothic architecture will make you whip out your phone faster than hearing your favorite ringtone.

Make sure to check out the Thistle Chapel and, in the parking lot out back, the burial site of the fiery preacher John Knox. (Beneath parking spot #23)

The curved and colorful Victoria Street is another must-see location just around the corner. It’s widely assumed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.

Whether you are a Potter fan or not, the street is worth a stroll for its beautiful facades and a cup of delicious butterbeer at The Elephant House.

For our Potter die-hards, check out this HP tour of the city:

From here, you can stop by a pub on Grassmarket and have a beautiful view of the Castle on Vennel, or head back up to the Royal Mile to try a Whiskey tasting at Cadenheads and tea time at Clarinda’s Tea Room.

Whatever you choose, we highly recommend ending your day with a Ghost Tour! This activity was truly one of a kind. Your ghoulish host takes you around iconic city locations such as Greyfriars Kirkyard, combining humor and haunted history along the way.

You even explore the Underground Vaults of the ancient city, which were rediscovered in the 1980s after being sealed off for centuries.

Old Town Eats

Our favorite lunch spot was hands down Makars Mash-Bar. Here you can enjoy delicious cuts of pork shoulder, lamb shank, and seasoned chicken, all served with one of 9 mashed potato options to create delicious pairings.

Oink is another option for a quick pulled pork sandwich right off the Royal Mile. There are a few locations throughout the city. The most convenient one for us was located on Victoria Street.

For dinner, our pick is The Devil’s Advocate. The stunning view of the Scott Monument is just the beginning as you sit down for your culinary adventure. We tried the Venison, Steak, and a few glasses of single malt scotch.

Reservations are highly recommended for each location!

New Town: Who Dis?

Across Princes Street Gardens is a very different Edinburgh.

Built in the late 1700s as an answer to the dangerously overcrowded Old Town, New Town is refined and orderly. It features wide boulevards, Georgian townhouses, and modern storefronts.

Right off the bat, you’ll notice New Town doesn’t have the steep streets or medieval charm of Old Town. However, you’ll get some great views of the castle on this side of town.

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Princes Street is the main boulevard. Start here for great shopping, cafes, and a visit to The Scott Monument.

A bit further down the street, stop by the Ross Fountain for a photo op with Edinburgh Castle photobombing you in the background.

If you’ve got your walking shoes on, head towards the fairytale-esque Dean Village. Remember, this is a residential area: please respect the privacy of the people who live there!

Continue along the Water of Lieth walkway for a scenic stroll to the charming streets of Stockbridge. If you can, make this trek on a Sunday when the Stockbridge Market takes place from 10a to 4pm. It was here that we got to try some mead offered to us by a friar! There’s a first time for everything.

From here, you can make your way back towards New Town, stopping by the delicious Lannan bakery for a tasty snack. There might be a line, but it’s worth the wait, we promise!

If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by Panda and Sons speakeasy for some scientifically-minded libations.

If Hot Chocolate is more your speed, try Knoops Hot Chocolate for a rich cup topped with one of their handmade marshmallows.

After wandering down Rose Street and exploring St. Andrews Square, make your way towards Calton Hill for a truly stunning sunset over the city.

This hill is home to several significant structures, including The National Scottish Monument, which was inspired by the Pantheon in Athens.

After the sun goes down, you can hit a warm pub for some pints and live music, or head into a cosy restaurant for a bit of Haggis (some are better than others!)

Edinburgh is truly a magical place where you can travel through time simply by walking across a park. So don’t rush. Soak it in. Edinburgh is a city that lingers.

Thanks for stopping by! We hope you enjoyed this guide on how to experience Edinburgh, Scotland’s Old Town and New Town.

Don’t forget to check out our other travel guides, videos, and blogs before you go!