Situated atop an imposing volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland. If you’re staying on Princes Street, the main shopping street in the heart of Edinburgh, you’ll be within easy reach of this historic fortress. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various ways to get to Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street and provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit.
Getting to Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street
As a Castles Touring Enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several convenient options to reach Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
Walking
The most direct and scenic route is to walk from Princes Street to Edinburgh Castle. This journey takes approximately 10 minutes and allows you to soak in the stunning views of the city along the way. As you ascend The Mound, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the historic Old Town and the iconic castle perched atop its rocky outcrop.
Tram
If you prefer a more leisurely mode of transportation, you can take the tram from the Princes Street tram stop, located opposite The Mound. The tram journey takes around 30 minutes, with the nearest stop being just a short walk away from the castle entrance.
Bus
Another option is to take a bus, such as the Airlink 100 express bus, which runs from the airport to the city centre. You can get off at Waverley Bridge, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the castle.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
For a more comprehensive sightseeing experience, consider hopping on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Many of these tours include a stop at Edinburgh Castle, allowing you to explore the castle at your own pace.
Costs and Timings
When planning your visit, it’s important to consider the various costs and timings associated with each mode of transportation:
| Mode of Transport | Cost | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Walking | Free | 10 minutes |
| Tram | Tram fares vary | 30 minutes |
| Bus | Bus fares vary | 25 minutes |
| Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours | Tour prices vary | Depends on tour schedule |
Additional Information
Here are some additional details to help you plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street:
- Edinburgh Castle is located at The Esplanade, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG.
- The Information Point telephone number is 0131 225 9846.
- There is no public parking at Edinburgh Castle, but you can park at Castle Terrace NCP, the nearest car park.
Exploring Edinburgh Castle
Once you’ve arrived at Edinburgh Castle, you’ll be greeted by a wealth of history and stunning architecture. The castle’s origins can be traced back to the 12th century, and it has played a significant role in Scotland’s turbulent past. Highlights of a visit to the castle include the iconic St. Margaret’s Chapel, the impressive Great Hall, and the Scottish Crown Jewels.
As you explore the castle, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Lothian landscape. The castle’s strategic location atop an extinct volcano provides a commanding presence over the city, making it a must-visit destination for any Castles Touring Enthusiast.
Conclusion
Edinburgh Castle is a true gem of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, and its proximity to Princes Street makes it an easily accessible attraction for visitors. Whether you choose to walk, take the tram, or hop on a bus tour, the journey to this iconic fortress is sure to be a memorable one. So, pack your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating history and stunning scenery of Edinburgh Castle.
References:
- https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Princess-Street/Edinburgh-Castle
- https://edinburghtrams.com/stop/princes-street
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/getting-here