Hit the Shops! Edinburgh shopping guide

Our guide to the many shops in Edinburgh

Whether you’re looking for bargain basics, high street must-haves or designer treats, the fantastic shops in Edinburgh have something for you. So, let’s take a look at some of the best places to go shopping in the city.

High street shopping

If it’s high-street shops you’re after, start with Edinburgh’s major shopping thoroughfare – Princes Street. A line of shops runs down one side of the mile-long street, while Princes Street Gardens and the National Gallery of Scotland are on the other. Running parallel to Princes Street is a high-street fashion hot spot ­– the spectacular George Street. This is a chic fashion hub filled with trendy stores, fashionable restaurants and stylish hangouts. At the east end of Princes Street and around the corner, the shiny new St James Quarter offers premium high-street shopping and plenty of dining and entertainment options. Including bars and restaurants, a cinema and bowling alley!

Row of shops on Princes Street in Edinburgh

Straight off the catwalk

When it comes to luxury brands, Multrees Walk is the pinnacle of designer shopping. A trip to this designer shopping district is an experience like no other. Here you’ll find big name brands like Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton and Burberry. With a little help from some top designers, stepping out in style couldn’t be easier.

Beautiful boutiques

If you’re looking to strike a pose without breaking the bank, then head on down to Edinburgh’s sensational West End. A stone’s throw away from Princes Street, it is the perfect mix of luxury boutiques and quirky haunts to suit your individual style and budget. With its cobbled streets, indie and upmarket shops, not to mention chic jewellery and accessories, it has been a treasure trove of shopping delights since the 1800s.

woman holding up a dress in a fashion boutique

Nothing but vintage

For a truly magical shopping experience, make your way over to Edinburgh’s Grassmarket and Victoria Street. Said to be the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, Victoria Street’s narrow, winding road, unusual stores and bewitching atmosphere are just what you need to lift your spirits.

View down Victoria Street in Edinburgh

Markets and more

For all your other bits and bobs, Edinburgh has several weekly markets that are open all year round, including Stockbridge Market, Grassmarket Market and Leith Market. With plenty of fresh local produce, arts and crafts and accessories on offer.

Fresh bread on a market stall in Edinburgh's Grassmarket

Scottish gifts and souvenirs

Make your way down the Royal Mile for a plethora of Scottish gifts. This is one of the oldest parts of Edinburgh, with a great mix of history, shops, taverns and eateries every which way you turn.

The Royal Mile in Edinburgh

So that’s our guide to the best shops in Edinburgh. And while we have barely scraped the surface, a turn down just about any lane offers a wealth of shopping opportunities to enrich your home and wardrobe. So, why not check out our latest Edinburgh Shopper Offer and book a city shopping trip to remember?