New Town

New Town has Georgian architecture, upscale dining, and good safety day and night. More expensive than other areas but streets stay lit and active late.

Built in the late 18th century with wide grid-pattern streets, New Town feels more open than the cramped medieval Old Town. Georgian townhouses line the streets, along with upscale shops and restaurants. George Street runs through the middle with cocktail bars and restaurants that stay open until midnight on weekends, drawing young professionals and well-dressed locals. The streets are well-lit and people stay out late, so evening walks feel safer than in other parts of the city. You'll see people working alone in cafes for hours - it's that kind of area. The Georgian squares make navigation straightforward, and Princes Street (the main shopping area) runs along the southern edge. Accommodation here leans toward boutique hotels rather than hostels, though budget options are within a 10-minute walk.