Old Town

Old Town is a medieval neighborhood in Edinburgh with narrow lanes, steep stairs, and densely packed streets that climb upward from the castle. The sandstone buildings and irregular street patterns show the centuries-old structure of the place.

The neighborhood developed in medieval times as Edinburgh's main settlement and grew tightly packed until the 18th century when New Town was built. This shift of population northward changed the role of the area fundamentally.

Museums and galleries are woven throughout the neighborhood, shaping how people experience the streets and connecting locals and visitors alike. The area carries literary and artistic significance that shows itself in shops, pubs, and public spaces.

The narrow lanes and steep stairs can be physically demanding and slippery when wet, so comfortable shoes are important. Taking time to linger under the covered passages and passageways between buildings reveals hidden corners and different levels of the place.

Beneath the streets lie abandoned vaults and chambers from earlier periods, part of the settlement's story without visible signs above ground. These underground layers allow visitors to experience time and architecture in a completely different setting.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Part of: Old and New Towns of Edinburgh

GPS coordinates: 55.94757,-3.19163

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:23