Where to go shopping in Edinburgh

As the capital of Scotland, you would expect Edinburgh to have some of the nation's top cultural attractions. And it does. This beautiful city is perhaps the best place to explore the rich and turbulent history of Scotland and learn what makes this country so unique.

But it's also where you'll find some of Scotland's best shopping opportunities. Whether you're looking for High Street fashion in the city centre, vintage clothing in the vibrant neighborhoods, the work of local designers in exclusive boutiques, or just the usual parade of souvenir shops, you'll find that Edinburgh offers everything you need for a memorable retail experience. You can shop for designer brands in Jenners, Edinburgh's most famous department store, or explore antique shops and other quirky shops on Castle Street and Frederick Street. This is a place where independent retailers rub shoulders with popular High Street brands throughout the Old Town, so you'll never be short of places to shop in Edinburgh.

To make things easier on yourself, take advantage of Bounce storage in Edinburgh. We partner with local businesses to make sure you have locations throughout the city centre and close to all the major shopping centres. That way, you can leave your new purchases behind while you carry on shopping, or go out for a meal or on a night out. Your belongings will be safely looked after until you're ready to pick them up.

All you need to know when shopping in Edinburgh

Shopping in Edinburgh is a seamless blend of historic charm and modern convenience. After exploring the fascinating history of Edinburgh Castle and visiting some of the city's art galleries, you can explore gift shops and stylish boutiques throughout the heart of the city. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit:

Shopping architecture

Edinburgh’s shopping scene spans a mix of historic streets, modern malls, and eclectic markets. Different neighborhoods offer a different selection of stores, from the High Street favourites you'll find on Frederick Street to the independent stores of Victoria Street. Luckily, Edinburgh's public transit system makes it easy to get around so you can enjoy some of these different areas for yourself. Plus, bounce can make it easy to get around the city by looking after your heavy bags while you explore. Key shopping areas include:

• Princes Street: Lined with high-street brands and iconic views of Edinburgh Castle, this is the city’s main shopping thoroughfare. It's where you'll find the well-known brands you recognize, and a place for many Edinburgh locals to come to do their shopping, too.
• George Street: A more upscale destination, featuring luxury boutiques, stylish bars, and chic restaurants. If you're looking for high-end stores, this is where you'll find them, but following the latest trends doesn't come cheap, so make sure you have the budget, unless you're content with window shopping.
• Grassmarket and Victoria Street: These historic areas are known for their independent shops, vintage stores, and quirky finds. That makes these areas the top choice if you're looking for something different or you just want a change from the better-known parts of town.
• St James Quarter: A new state-of-the-art shopping center offering a range of premium retailers and dining options. If you're looking for one-stop shopping under a single roof, this is a great place to pick up just about everything you need.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Edinburgh open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays. Sundays typically see shorter hours, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During Christmas, the city transforms with festive markets and extended shopping hours, so if you're in Edinburgh at that time of year, you can have a completely different experience.

Pricing and bargaining

Prices are generally fixed in boutiques and malls, but bargaining might be possible at local markets. If you are going to haggle over price, make sure you have cash to spend. Credit cards are accepted just about everywhere, but you're more likely to get a deal if you have ready money.

Shop like a local

• Bring reusable shopping bags, as many shops charge for single-use bags. Paying for a reusable bag everywhere you go can quickly blow a hole in your holiday shopping budget.
• Edinburgh’s compact layout makes it easy to explore shopping districts on foot. Make things easier on yourself by leaving your bags behind with Bounce so that you can travel light and see as much of the city as possible.
• Use public transport to navigate between neighborhoods, as parking can be limited in the city center. Waverley Station operates as the central hub of Edinburgh's transportation network, and it's easy to get from here to the West End, the East End, or anywhere else you want to go.

Unique shops to visit in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to unique stores that reflect its rich heritage and creative spirit. In many ways, exploring these quirky retailers is a good way to get to grips with the unique culture of the city. Here are some must-visit shops:

Armstrong & Son

Established in 1840, this iconic vintage store is a treasure trove of pre-loved clothing, from retro dresses to classic kilts. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to add a unique touch to their wardrobe. Located right next to Waverley station, it's as easy a place to reach as it is a fun place to explore.

Address: Craigs Close, 29 Cockburn St

The Red Door Gallery

This independent gallery showcases prints, jewelry, and homeware by local artists, offering one-of-a-kind pieces that make for perfect gifts or keepsakes. It's an excellent way to support local creatives while you pick up items you won't see anywhere else.

Address: 42 Victoria Street

Walker Slater

Renowned for its high-quality tweed garments, this shop is the epitome of Scottish style. Whether you’re after a tailored jacket or a cozy scarf, Walker Slater offers timeless fashion. The store actually has multiple locations on the same street, with one devoted to menswear and another devoted to women's clothing.

Address: 18-20 or 44 Victoria Street

Museum Context

A haven for Harry Potter fans, this shop is packed with memorabilia and magical items inspired by the wizarding world. Located near Victoria Street, which is said to have inspired Diagon Alley, it’s a magical experience for fans of all ages.

Address: 40 Victoria Street

Shopping experiences in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s markets and specialty shops offer a wide range of goods that extend beyond fashion. For some of the most unique shopping experiences in Edinburgh, head to these celebrated locations that allow you to turn the simple act of shopping into an event.

Royal Mile Market

Set in a historic church, this market features artisan crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to find locally made items with a personal touch.

Address: 1A High Street

Fudge Kitchen

Treat yourself to handmade fudge in classic and innovative flavors. Watch the fudge-making process and take home a delicious sweet souvenir. If that doesn't satisfy your sweet tooth, The Chocolatarium is right around the corner, with the Museum of Childhood in between the two so you can fully indulge your inner child in this charming part of the city.

Address: 30 High St

Traditional shopping options in Edinburgh

For a more conventional shopping experience, Edinburgh offers a variety of malls and high-street options:

Princes Street

This iconic street combines popular retailers like Zara and H&M with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. It’s perfect for a leisurely shopping day in the city center. There are also plenty of cafés and pubs where you can take a break and recharge your batteries.

St James Quarter

A modern shopping destination with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Burberry, high-street stores, and a wide range of dining options.

Address: Leith Street

Ocean Terminal

Located near the waterfront, this mall features shops, restaurants, and a cinema, making it a great family-friendly destination.

Address: 74 Ocean Drive

Like the city itself, Edinburgh offers an impressive variety of different shopping experiences. Classic Scottish souvenirs like tartan and whiskey are available in some very impressive shops in the city centre, but you can also find the usual High Street brands and convenient shopping centers if you're just looking to pick up a pair of socks or a couple of T-shirts.

Whatever you're shopping for, you can make things easier on yourself by downloading the Bounce app and taking advantage of nearby luggage storage. We can look after anything, whether it's a suitcase or shopping bag, for as long as you need until you're ready to pick it up again. Leave the bags behind with Bounce and let the shopping begin!