Triple Olympic gold-medallist Chris Hoy said he was "overwhelmed" by the large turnout for his victory parade earlier today down the Royal Mile.
The 32 year old cyclist was joined by fellow Olympians, silver medallists Katherine Grainger MBE, Ross Edgar and David Florence for a reception at Edinburgh Castle and the city centre parade.
The four athletes dressed in the red, white and blue tracksuits of Team GB, medals dangling from their necks, waved and smiled from the top deck of the bus as throngs of supporters crowded both sides of the Royal Mile. A piper played, the saltires waved.
City of Edinburgh Council event organisers estimate around 50,000 people turned out - much more than had been originally expected.
"It has been a staggering success," said Lord Provost George Grubb.
"Everyone who came out today had a fantastic time. Many more people came along than we had expected and it was perfect opportunity to welcome the medallists back - I think people will be talking about it for quite a long time."
"The huge turn out at the Royal Mile a sign of how proud Edinburgh people are of our athletes and of the massive impact that Chris Hoy has made on the global stage."
Commending the medallists at Edinburgh Castle, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "The Scottish Government's overriding priority is to see an increase in sporting participation rates throughout Scotland and the success of our four medallists can only be a major influence on our young people and help inspire the heroes of tomorrow."
Speaking at the Castle, Louise Martin CBE, Chair of sportscotland said: "Team GB had a fantastic Games and we are very proud of all the athletes including the 32 Scots in the team. The achievements of the four Scottish medallists will hopefully inspire and motivate our young people to take part in sport and physical activity and engender the belief that they too can succeed."