Where to Shop in Edinburgh? A Guide to the Best Shopping Areas

Edinburgh is an exciting and vibrant city with endless opportunities for shopping, appealing to all budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for high-end designer labels, vintage and thrift boutiques or big-name high street stores, the city has something to offer everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best areas for shopping in Edinburgh, from the charming cobbled streets of the old town to the modern shopping precincts of the city centre.

The Old Town

The streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town provide an insight into the city’s rich history, dating back over a thousand years. At the same time, many of these streets are also home to a wide variety of shops and outlets selling everything you could need. Whether you’re after souvenirs such as shortbread from the legendary Mary’s Milk Bar, contemporary clothes from Folk Clothing or even antiques from stores like The Royal Mile Antiques, there’s plenty available.

The Grassmarket is also well worth visiting, with its dazzling views of the castle and beautiful cobbles. Here you’ll find independent boutiques that offer everything from quirky jewellery to handmade soaps and vintage art prints. Plus, with its lively pubs and fantastic eateries, this is a great place for a lunch break or an evening out.

George Street and Multrees Walk

For an upmarket shopping experience in the city centre, the bustling streets of George Street are the perfect place to visit. Home to some of the world’s biggest brands, this area also incorporates muiltrees walk, which links the street to St Andrew Square. As well as designer shops such as Louis Vuitton and Burberry, you’ll find numerous other interesting stores, plus restaurants and cafés to enjoy during your shopping trips.

If you’re looking for a way to make your shopping trip even more special, take a visit to Harvey Nichols or Jenners. Both of these luxury stores are located on St Andrew Square and house a mixture of high-end fashion brands and other items such as beauty products, homeware and gifts.

The Royal Mile

The famous cobbled street of The Royal Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill all the way down to Holyrood Palace at the bottom. It’s home to some amazing small businesses including shops selling souvenirs, traditional tartan fashions as well as beautiful jewellery. For shoes and bags, head to Johnston’s Classic Footwear or Albam Clothing for unique streetwear. And for something special to take home with you after your visit, check out Scott’s Jewellery for bespoke designs created by local jewellers.

Princes Street

No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to Princes Street, which offers an array of high street stores such as Gap, Zara and Selfridges. These are just some of the shops that line this world-famous shopping street – you can find anything from luxury items such as jewellery to vintage items or even gifts for loved ones back home. You’ll want to plan your visit wisely though since Princes Street is always much busier than other areas of the city centre!

Conclusion

Edinburgh is an unbeatable destination for shopping, offering a mix of both old and new. From the charming cobbled streets of The Old Town to luxurious designer stores in St Andrew Square, there’s lots to explore in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or high-end fashion labels, Edinburgh has something for everyone – so don’t miss out on this fantastic shopping experience. For more information about Edinburgh’s amazing stores and boutiques, visit VisitScotland’s guide to shopping in Edinburgh.

Where to Shop in Edinburgh? A Guide to the Best Shopping Areas

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a beautiful and historical destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in visiting cultural landmarks, trying local cuisine, or shopping until you drop, the city has something in store for you. In this insider’s guide, we’ll be delving into the best shopping areas that Edinburgh has to offer, as well as some of the other cultural and historical experiences you can enjoy while you’re there.

The City Centre: Princes Street and George Street

Princes Street runs through the centre of Edinburgh and is home to one of the city’s biggest shopping districts. It’s a pedestrianised street that offers a bustling atmosphere where you can find a range of high street brands and designer shops. One of the most iconic landmarks on Princes Street is the Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, a famous Scottish poet and novelist. Right beside the monument sits the Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park that is a perfect spot to relax after a day of shopping.

If you’re looking for more high-end stores, you should take a walk down George Street, located near Princes Street. The street is full of stylish shops, trendy bars, and chic restaurants. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and recharge before your next shopping spree.

Old Town: Victoria Street and Grassmarket

The Old Town of Edinburgh is a charming area with a lot of atmospheric shops, pubs, and cafes. Victoria Street and Grassmarket are two of the most atmospheric shopping areas in the Old Town, and it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with them. The winding cobbled streets, the Instagrammable bright and colourful buildings, and the eclectic array of shops make them unforgettable. Victoria Street is a perfect place to buy antiques or souvenirs. Grassmarket is also home to a farmers’ market where you can find fresh, local produce.

While you’re in the Old Town, make sure to take a walk to Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop a rocky outcrop that dominates the city’s skyline. The castle is an iconic symbol of Edinburgh, built in the 13th century, and steeped in history. You can take a tour of the castle and learn more about its importance to the city and Scottish history.

New Town: Multrees Walk and St. Andrew Square

The New Town is an area that was developed in the 18th and 19th centuries. This area is very different from the Old Town, boasting a grid-like network of streets lined with Georgian buildings. The Multrees Walk is the most high-end shopping area in the New Town and is home to some of the world’s top designer stores, including Louis Vuitton, Harvey Nichols, and Burberry.

St. Andrew Square is another great spot in the New Town. It’s a beautiful, leafy square that is home to some of the city’s finest luxury brands, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. The street performers and musicians add an extra layer of charm to this already picturesque destination.

Off the Beaten Path: Stockbridge

If you’re looking for a more local and less touristic shopping experience, head to the Stockbridge area. This neighbourhood is full of quirky boutiques, vintage stores, and independent cafes. Take a stroll down the Water of Leith Walkway and visit Sunday Stockbridge Market to enjoy delicious food and beautiful crafts made by local artisans.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh is a unique destination with plenty of shopping opportunities. The best way to get the most out of your visit is to venture beyond the typical tourist areas and discover hidden gems. By exploring different neighbourhoods, you’ll find a blend of traditional and modern shops and enjoy the city’s atmosphere, history, and culture.