Some say that Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh's most beautiful lanes - and once you see it, you'll probably agree with them.
Its original purpose was to provide a gradual, inclined route to allow horses carrying goods from the Grassmarket to access the Royal Mile.
Today it is a cobblestone lover's paradise, curving its way upwards with a series of colourful shops on each side. There are no major brands on this street - it is simply door after door of individual boutiques with Edinburgh locals behind the counter serving up some of Edinburgh's best shopping
Foot of Victoria Street: the Grassmarket
Oddly enough you'll find several gag and joke shops at the foot of Victoria Street - the perfect souvenir or just for a good laugh. You'll also find a year-round Christmas shop packed to the rafters with great little goodies and a few lovely artist shops with various photography, art, and handmade crafts.
Top of Victoria Street: George IV Bridge and the Royal Mile
More of the restaurants are on this end of the street, but don't miss some of the edgy clothing shops as well as the old fashioned bookstore - their selection of old maps is incredible!
There is also a liqueur and spirits dealer where you can get a customised bottle (both the contents and the bottle itself), a whisky shop, and a wee shop with hundreds of tea pots, coffee mugs, and all the associated paraphernalia. It all feels like a treasure hunt waiting to be explored.
While You're Here
There are a couple of smaller restaurants and a pub or two on Victoria Street itself, but why not expand your reach - any of the bustling pubs on the Grassmarket are a good choice, such as The Lot or The Last Drop.
Up on George IV Bridge you can't miss The Elephant House , which claims to be the Home of Harry Potter as J.K. Rowling penned much of the famous books while dining there.
Halfway along Victoria Street is a set of stairs with a sign pointing you towards Victoria Terrace. This is another hidden lane a storey above between Victoria Street and The Royal Mile which has several more cafes and a shop or two. Incidentally it also has a great top-down view of the curve of Victoria Street and is the perfect photo opportunity.
Don't miss any of our other Edinburgh shopping recommendations.
