Beautiful! A must see.a lot of shops and places to stop in for food and coffee or a nice brew.

Yes, this is touristy but that doesn't replace the fact this it's a beautiful walk and we were lucky because the weather was absolutely perfect! The street is lined with shops filled with tartan, souvenirs, even bagpipe players and the typical tourist restaurants. (If you go off the walk a little, there are less tourist places). But nonetheless it's a lovely walk! This walk shows the beautiful architecture and history of the city. The streets are cobblestone so be sure to wear comfy shoes. And the end of the walk is lovely Edinburgh castle. All in all a lovely walk and even better if the weather is nice! (Which was the case for us!) read more

Loads of Edinburgers dismiss the Royal Mile as a tourist filled tat haven, but I propose that they're all very wrong. Yeah, ok, when all the festivals are on during the month of August, the Royal Mile is an obstacle course of performers, large camera lenses and the inevitable but woefully cringeworthy bum bags (fanny packs for US translation). But in how many other cities will you find a mile long street that starts with a castle, and ends with a palace? I like the throng of tourists and locals that wander down the mile, and I especially enjoy it during August, because everyone seems to get such a buzz from the atmosphere and history of the area. Admittedly, the start of the Mile is a bit overrun with tourist shops and overpriced food establishments, but I don't mind that really. I enjoy peering down little cobbled closes and alleyways to see what's going on, and nearer the middle and the bottom of the mile, there are some fantastic wee pubs, shops, and places to eat. read more

The main drag of old town Edinburgh, this cobblestone street connects Edinburgh Castle on one end with Holyrood Palace at the other. In between is the heart of old town Edinburgh with shops, restaurants, bars, and the beautiful St. Giles' Cathedral. It can be a bit touristy, but it is comparatively understated and retains tremendous historic charm. One of the best finds on the Royal Mile is Benes Fish & Chips. read more

I love the Royal Mile! Sure it's chockful of tourists and touristy stores, but if you ignore all of that and look at the architecture, and consider the history of the street and the setting...then wow, this is the prettiest and most historical tourist strip ever. Shops i loved on the Royal Mile (and just off): - Ness - Ecco Vino - Cookie Really fun and gorgeous read more

Full of tourists (obviously, I'm one myself) and the same same tartan shops. A few nice pubs down the other end from the castle though. Certainly worth a stroll but don't get too caught up there. Quite a bit of history so make sure to join a *free guided tour (usually £5 expected per person for the guide). They are good though I've been on three. read more

Theres nothing quite like the Royal Mile. It is, in a word, unique. And because of that, everybody want to see it. The Royal Mile is always full of tourtists, but more importantly, I (having lived here for many years) still get a cheap thrill about walking down the Royal Mile. Im not sure what it is - the history, the buzzing atmospher, the many restaurants/shops/bars/tourist things - who knows, the Royal Mile has something. During the festival, it becomes the epicentre of the street performance explosion throughout the city centre, and If you have read my fringe Festival you will know that I genuinly believe that whole days can be spent watching street performers and slowly (very slowly) making your way down the royal mile absorbing the atmosphere and the sights and generally the excellence. Truely a great place to be, and really desreves its reputation as one of the best places in the city to visit. read more

Royal Mile - From business website. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

I was in Edinburgh for three full days and I walked through the Royal Mile every single day because it is the that stunning! On one occasion I walked from Holyrood Palace to the St. Gile's Cathedral, it was quiet a walk but I enjoyed it. The other end of the road is the Edinburgh Castle, there are so many shops along the way (also restaurants), This section is beautiful if you are into old buildings and architecture like me. read more

When visiting Edinburgh, you MUST visit the Royal Mile! This cobblestone Road, that leads from Edinburgh Castle, is a main road, where you can find many shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It's a road that is rich with history, and was the very street that Mary, Queen of Scots, travelled on during her welcoming parade. The architecture of many buildings here, is unlike you will find anywhere else. Absolutely breathtaking! Be prepared to do some walking here, as there is sooo much to see! read more

A walk down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle is a good way to see a snap-shot of the life in this part of the city. I think if it is convenient you should start at the castle, from here you'll get a view north over the Princess Street Gardens or South to the Meadows. Near the castle is generally mobbed with tourists, I would recommend if you can don't visit anything in Edinburgh during the main festival season of August, the rest of the year it can be very busy but not crazy busy. Heading down the mile towards Holyrood Palace is strange as you get further from the pure tourist attraction of the castle and closer to Holyrood, a working royal residence , you also get further from the shops selling a load of rubbish and passing it of as authentic, traditional and Scottish, beware any tiny shop describing itself as a factory outlet or clearance sales. read more

A walk down the Royal Mile is a must for any visitor. I recommend starting your walk at Holyrood House and walking towards the castle, poppoing into the Museum of Edinburgh, Peoples Story & Museum of Childhood on your way! Do it soon, as new construction plans on the mile may change its facade forever! Ess read more

The Royal Mile is a lovely piece of Edinburgh's architectural history. I wish there weren't so many shops lining it selling utter 'tat' though. it spoils the ambience. Lots of nice buildings, a cobbled road and a castle at the top - what more could you want? read more

The Royal mile can't be missed - it gives a good idea of ' old EDINBURGH' walking up and down the cobbled streets is lovely - especially on a summers day . The royal mile is always buzzing , particularly during the festival. There are lots of lovely boutique type shops and a lot of shops filled with nasty tartan tat!! The royal mile leads up to the castle and is always very busy with tourists. Be warned its a steep walk , but there are many small cafes and coffee bars so you could always stop for a break on the way up and watch the passers by. read more

A lovely sedate stroll down the Royal Mile is a must for those just visiting the city of Edinburgh. You can spend the entire day in this one small part of town and not satisfy your curiosity, it is literally crammed all the way with awesome little shops, pubs and restaurants. It has the Castle at the top and Holyrood is at the very bottom, which are both rather essential touristy things to see, and also there's a lovely park at Holyrood as well. After missioning all the way down it's a good place to chill on a nice day. And for those who've already been there ,done that, a suggestion: try cycling up the Royal Mile. Hefty. read more

Walked it in August and so busy with vehicles and pedestrians. Scary. About 530pm they seem to close the road from the Castle down. So if you were hoping for a taxi it won't happen. They also close the stairs going up/down to/from Grass Market and Castle about 530 in August. Lots of shops for souvenirs and clothing. There is a Bank of Scotland that has inside ATM for safer money withdrawals. read more

I always enjoy walking along the Royal Mile when in Edinburgh. I found a wealth of unusual shops such as a mystical/witchcraft shop, Christmas shops and a Russian shop just off the Royal Mile in St. Mary's Street. I was not impressed by the tacky tartan shops however. It is a wonderful place for those interested in history, I was fascinated by the spot at the Castle where they used to burn witches and David Rizzio's grave. I did a whisky tour and plucked up the courage to visit Mary King's Close. I also visited the People's Museum and the Scottish Parliament before heading down to Holyrood Palace. This is a truly wonderful little corner of the world and a must see for all visitors to the capital. Irene http://www.negotiatenow.co.uk read more

Just gorgeous!! A real treat of a walk! I did this on my own and was just entertained beyond belief!! It's a bit touristy, as I was, so I get it.. I live in a touristy part of SF, so I try to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear. I wish I would have bought some Cashmere or a tartan skirt! 2 real regrets! The pics I took were fabulous.. great photo ops!! I wish I would have gotten on a tour, though. read more

One of the main streets of Edinburgh to explore is of course the Royal Mile. The part closest to the castle has the most character and interesting shops. There's a lot of places to buy Edinburgh goods such as kilts, wool and little souvenirs. There's also the stunning St Giles cathedral. Well worth a wander. read more

I was here in August, came for the Tattoo, the Fringe Festival happen to be going on at the same time. The Royal Mile was packed. The vibe was awesome, so many people and so much going on in every pub, restaurant and street corner. Tons of shops to stop in a grab a souvenir. The cobblestone streets and the amazing buildings, so many historical sites, St. Giles Cathedral, The Real Mary King's Close, etc. It's so clean through here despite the crowds. Definitely a way to spend a good couple of days walking around. read more

We loved ambling down the street in no hurry. Lots to see. We listened to Rick Steve's audio tour for some of the historical highlights and enjoyed it. read more

As far as touristy stuff goes, this is the right street to hit. Filled with tons of wee Scottish shops, bars and restaurants you can get everything you need without straying too far. Great vibe, not too pricy and tons of stuff to do. read more

Very cool street with a number of spectacular sites and plenty of street performers. Downside is there are a lot of tourists (me included).

Crowded. All tourists basically. All the souvenir shops are on the strip or on an intersecting street. One end leads you to the Holyrood Palace, the other Edinburgh Castle, so plan accordingly! read more

Had a fantastic Free Tour of Edinburgh with SANDEMAN'S. I totally recommend it. Pascual was our guide and he knew a lot about the history and some fun facts about the town. The street itself has a lot of nice shops and restaurants, and beautiful buildings. A must-go area when in Edinburgh. read more

The Royal Mile is one of those places in Edinburgh that you must walk along. The buildings along the street have been conserved and it really gives you an insight into how the old town used to look many years ago. As you walk down there's alot of shops selling cashmere and other Scotish goods at expensive prices and this for me cheapened the whole experience of the Royal Mile. read more

We loved the Royal Mile!! There are so many things to do and see and we took in as much as possible: the kilt making factory, Mary Kings Close, Greyfriars Bobby, a distillery tour and those weren't even half of all the things to do. We were warned ahead of time not to buy souvenirs or do any personal shopping there because the prices were inflated but we didn't find that was the case. In fact one of the first stores after you come out of Edinburgh Castle had the best price for cashmere scarves and we we all over the city. Even Princes Street was more expensive. The restaurants are fabulous and so are the street performers. We were there this past summer during the UK's heat wave and so that probably enhanced our experience. Don't go to Edinburgh and not do the Royal Mile! read more

Yes you must walk it. Start at the bottom by the museum and walk. Lots of shops selling scotch, cashmere, kilts and souvenirs. Just a mix of everything along with restaurants, pubs, and sweets. Then there are the entertainers. Bagpipers, statues, and more. Stop and take a picture and top them. Some are really talented. Walk the length straight to the castle. Some great views and pictures can be taken in. I loved this walk and did it three days in a row. Such fun. read more

I like the Royal Mile, it is a great little jaunt up to the castle, standing high and just an imposing structure. Though, really more of a tourist spot. Lots of shops, cafes, and more generic touristy type pubs. Street performers as well. The first time I visited, it was during a French music fest. Which meant lots of mimes and other performers, if that is your thing, it was interesting. Recently, in lat Feb, not quite as much going on. Though I was still lucky to have a fairly clear day to explore. Then on up to the castle... read more

I love walking the Royal Mile from the Castle to Holyrood, hiking up the hill and sitting. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because I don't like the tourist-focused businesses on the road. read more

Dare I say... the Royal Mile is... wait for it... magical! Even with the souvenir shops where you can get your jimmy hats (Americans... not that kind of jimmy hat... actually maybe one of those ridiculous souvenir ones that you wouldn't actually use... sorry I have been sidetracked), blaring some techno bag pipe music so loud that the people living above the shops ask the stores to turn it down. There is an energy, an ambience in Edinburgh that I still cannot put into words when people ask me why Edinburgh is one of my favourite places in the world. I suspect the Royal Mile has something to do with this energy. Yes, it is chucked full of tourists, but that's because there is so much to see on this one street. I do love the people that set up shop on the Royal Mile on Saturday mornings... I have purchased two spoon rings, looked at some lovely art, and even met the lady who holds the Guinness Book of World Records... record for the most piercings. Yes, it was an... interesting experience. I even found a bagpiper to Ace Purple (the mascot from my alma mater) so I could take a picture and document Ace's travels (think Flat Stanley, but not...). I love the cobbled streets, I love all the little shops, I love that Holyrood is at one end and the castle at the other. Not to mention, my favourite map shop is on the Royal Mile too! I think this is the best attraction in Edinburgh... and it is free to wander it! Absolutely great for people watching (I can't tell you how many times it has given me complete and utter joy... and maybe a bit of smugness to watch people, specifically tourists wander about here). If you get tired of the crowds, you just pop off onto one of the side streets and if you want to get some beautiful pictures without people walking through your photo... go early in the morning. It is amazing how the Royal Mile takes on a different persona at different times of day... early in the morning is almost a ghost town with the exception of locals crossing to go to work, the bags of trash from restaurants, and the seagulls attacking the trash... you can hear "mine, mine, mine" mingled with faint bag pipes in the background. During the day it is tourist central. In the evening, there are still tourists wandering about, mostly circled around a performer in the middle of the street, most likely tossing things lit on fire around, but it isn't quite as crowded (I imagine most of them are the ghost tours) and there are some great views and pictures to be had a night... Advocate's Close where you can see the Scott Monument, and of course the castle and city from castle terrace just to name a few. I presume if you really love Edinburgh, that you have a special affinity for the Royal Mile... despite all of the tourists! read more

Underwhelming - The street is a tourist trap at best. The stores repeat, meaning you tend to find the same kilts, same short breads, the same magnets from store to store. I'm not sure if I saw anything that wasn't mass produced. I did enjoy the bagpipe performance though. read more

Love love love the Royal Mile and Edinburgh. I can still smell the mix of sea and flowers somehow that is such a strong memory. There are some cities that weirdly feel so authentically home to a stranger, and this is one of them. read more

Many great shops and restaurants. Good places to stop in for a scotch! Good place to find souvenirs. Lots to see!

Very touristy. Lots of shops that are all the same. If you like crowds and shops with cheap trinkets then this is your place. Some good food though. read more

Very touristy, but, hey, we were tourists there! A great place to hop on a bus tour, and get some tartan items. Go early, though, because it gets very crowded in the afternoons. read more

Walking along the Royal Mile is a must for any visitor to Edinburgh. I started at the top, at Edinburgh Castle, and took a couple of hours to walk the mile down to Holyrood Palace. There are lovely shops and bars along the way, so take your time in wandering. Beautful and historic. read more

We were starving after a long afternoon at Edinburgh Castle. We came across this tavern and ordered the bangers and mash and a burger. The bangers were the freshest I've ever had. You get two served on top of mash in a caramelized onion gravy. To die for. Beer was great. Service was good. The bathrooms were clean. Great place to have lunch. Can't wait to visit again. read more

Lovely buildings and a great atmosphere. Take your time and visit the lovely little shops and bars.

Take a walk along the Royal Mile to get some sense of the history of the city. It can be incrediby atmospheric, especially if you wander down some of the 'wynds' leading off the mile, with names such as 'Fleshmarket Close' to get the imagination working! There are some great restaurants and pubs along the mile and some nice specialist shops (as well as a good few 'jock shops!). The Christmas Shop is always good, even in August! read more

I love the Royal Mile it is so interesting and amazingly atmospheric on late night shopping around christmas time. The street is filled with interesting non chain stores which sets it apart from princes street. The tall tenements and museums make it a very interesting place to walk along also. This is one of my favourite places in Edinburgh and I try to walk along it as often as I can. read more