Is New Town a good area to stay in Edinburgh for first-time visitors?
Yes. New Town ranks #2 of 5 Edinburgh neighbourhoods for first-time visitors (combined score 67/100), with walk score 66/100, food 67/100, safety 65/100, and vibe 65/100. New Town is perfect for families seeking Georgian elegance, world-class museums, and safe tree-lined streets ideal for stroller-pushing parents.
Is New Town safe?
New Town is moderately safe with some areas to be cautious. Safety score 65/100 based on editorial review of incidents, lighting and street activity. Princes Street itself is aggressively touristy and pricey; locals avoid it. Stay on quieter parallel streets (Thistle, Rose, George) for authentic New Town feel. Georgian stairs in tenements are steep and narrow—challenging with buggies in some buildings.
Is New Town good for families?
Yes, New Town is one of the best Edinburgh neighbourhoods for families. Ranks #1 of 5 for families, scoring 71/100 on family-weighted metrics (family-friendliness 77/100, safety 65/100). New Town is perfect for families seeking Georgian elegance, world-class museums, and safe tree-lined streets ideal for stroller-pushing parents.
What is New Town known for?
New Town is perfect for families seeking Georgian elegance, world-class museums, and safe tree-lined streets ideal for stroller-pushing parents. Kids love the Scottish National Gallery's interactive programs, and Princes Street Gardens offers acres of space to run while you relax on benches overlooking the castle Local detail: Heriot Row's private gardens—residents only—are visible from pavements; locals jealously guard their keys. Non-residents feel the exclusion instantly.
How do I get from Edinburgh airport to New Town?
Edinburgh Airport to New Town: Airlink bus 100, 30 mins, £8. Or taxi/Uber £20-25.
Who should stay in New Town?
New Town suits family travellers best (ranked #1 of 5 Edinburgh neighbourhoods for them). It works less well for culture seekers (ranked #2). Not recommended for: Solo budget backpackers will find New Town expensive and lacking the bohemian hostels and nightlife chaos of the Old Town.