Edinburgh's not all about traditions and culture. The city is also a shopper's paradise with a variety of boutiques, high street stores, malls and quirky independent traders making the city a shopper's friendly destination. Edinburgh's shops are best known for traditional Scottish souvenirs and upmarket goods; food products in particular. However an increasing number of fashion boutiques, music shops, and other design stores opens this up to the wide appeal of worldwide visitors. An ideal tonic for all shoppers!
Princes Street
The main commercial shopping street is Princes Street. On the North side you'll find all the main department stores such as Debenhams, Frasers, BHS, and Marks & Spencers. Other well know UK high street stores such as Next, La Sensa, HMV, Top Shop, Burtons & Miss Selfridge are also present. The south side of Princes Street opens up to the Gardens in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle making Princes Street a unique shopping experience. Known as "the Harrods of the North", the famous department stores Jenners can also be found on Princes Street.
George Street
George Street was Edinburgh's financial centre until the bankers moved further out of the centre. Now the Banks have been converted to upmarket eateries and cocktail bars and the Street boasts high class boutiques & perfumeries - ideal for all those who are looking out for fashionistas, as it's lined with chic clothes shops. Notable names include Brooks Brothers, Cruise, Hamilton & Inches, Karen Millen & Moulton Brown.
St Andrew's Square
The main shopper's stop at St Andrew's Square is Harvey Nichols which gave the place a new charm. On the eastern end of the street lies Multrees Walk which has become the city's version of London's Bond Street, housing big brands and stores like Armani, Louis Vuitton and Mulberry.
Grassmarket & West Port
The place to look for second-hand and antique art, jewellery, clothing and books is the Grassmarket and West Port area. This is also where you will find The Knight Residence. Grassmarket and Victoria Street is also notable for the wide range of Cafe's, Bars and Restaurants abound. New car free areas have been created to host outdoor events in Summer with plenty of outdoor seating and eating areas.
Cockburn Street
There are three independent music shops here: Avalanche, Underground Solu'shn and the increasingly ubiquitous Fopp offer an alternative to the high street megastores, as well as a number of other interesting small shops.
The Royal Mile
Old cobbled streets lead you up to Edinburgh Castle. Shops & restaurants are abound and if you fancy a "nip" then sample a fine selection of Scottish malts at Royal Mile Whiskies - have a try before you buy! The Royal Mile is predominantly souvenir shops although you will also discover some quality cashmere and kiltmaking.
