Grassmarket & Victoria Street, Edinburgh - Image 1
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Grassmarket & Victoria Street Edinburgh

4.8
·272 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant, curving street with rainbow-hued buildings, inspiring Diagon Alley, and a historic square with pubs and shops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Empty streets for photos

CrowdLow
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Grassmarket & Victoria Street, Edinburgh - Image 1

Grassmarket & Victoria Street Edinburgh

Best Time

Early mornings

Empty streets for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, curving street with rainbow-hued buildings, inspiring Diagon Alley, and a historic square with pubs and shops.

4.8
(272 reviews)

"The colorful buildings, unique little shops, and charming cafés made it feel like walking through a storybook."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Early Bird Gets the Shot

Visit before 9 AM for empty streets and perfect photos of Victoria Street.

🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter Pilgrimage

Victoria Street inspired Diagon Alley; the Harry Potter shop is a major draw.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victoria Street's Colorful Charm

Victoria Street's Colorful Charm

Victoria Street

A vibrant, curving street with rainbow-hued buildings, inspiring Diagon Alley. Perfect for photos and unique shopping.

TikTokReddit
Grassmarket's Historic Heart

Grassmarket's Historic Heart

Grassmarket

A lively historic square with pubs, shops, and a rich past, once an execution site.

TikTokInstagram
Kilted Donut Delights

Kilted Donut Delights

Victoria Street

Indulge in delicious donuts, including vegan options, with a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle.

Instagram
The Knights Vault

The Knights Vault

Victoria Street

A must-visit for fantasy fans, offering a magical shopping experience with unique collectibles.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Photos

Victoria Street and Grassmarket are incredibly photogenic, but they get packed. Visit early morning for empty streets and the best light for capturing those iconic colorful buildings and unique shops. Reddit

Beyond the Harry Potter Hype

While Victoria Street is a must for Harry Potter fans, don't miss the independent boutiques, cheese shops, and galleries. Explore beyond the main shops for a more local feel. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Empty streets for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Pubs and lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @justine #edinburgh #edinburghscotland #scottishfood #Scotland #edinburghfestival #grassmarketedinburgh #visitedinburgh #visitscotland #edinburghfood #americaninscotland #americanintheuk
@haysfordays
146.7K likes • 1.5M views

📸 Early Bird Gets the Shot

Visit before 9 AM for empty streets and perfect photos of Victoria Street. InstagramReddit

🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter Pilgrimage

Victoria Street inspired Diagon Alley; the Harry Potter shop is a major draw. TikTokReddit

Come for a wander round some of my favourite spots in Edinburgh #edinburgh #Scotland #royalmile #grassmarket #deanvillage #victoriastreet #harrypotter
@siobhanscotland
136.4K likes • 675K views
Biscoff with a Castle view? 🍩 Donut need to ask me twice!🤪 @kilteddonut bake a DELICIOUS selection of donuts, including a range of vegan options 🌱 . Which flavour would you go for?😍 #edinburghcastle #donut #bakery #biscoff #edinburgh #edinburghfoodblog #scottishfoodies #vegandonuts
tastesofedinburgh
309 likes • 2.6K views

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore independent boutiques for unique art and products, away from tourist traps. Reddit

🍻 Historic Pubs

Enjoy a drink at pubs like The Last Drop with a fascinating, albeit dark, history. TikTok

Grassmarket, February 2024 A wee lunch break #edinburgh #street #streetphotos #street_photography #streetphotography #edinburghstreet #edinburghlife #people_and_world #peoplephotography #people #peopleinframe #throughthelens #street_classics #street_vision #streetsnap #streetsnappers #street_avengers #people_infinity #ig_streetpeople #ig_streetphotography #womeninstreet #instastreet #uk_shooters ...
apesara
178 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Early Bird Gets the Shot

Visit before 9 AM for empty streets and perfect photos of Victoria Street. InstagramReddit

🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter Pilgrimage

Victoria Street inspired Diagon Alley; the Harry Potter shop is a major draw. TikTokReddit

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore independent boutiques for unique art and products, away from tourist traps. Reddit

🍻 Historic Pubs

Enjoy a drink at pubs like The Last Drop with a fascinating, albeit dark, history. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Cobblestone streets and inclines require sturdy, comfortable footwear. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(272 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the picturesque, colorful buildings of Victoria Street, often comparing it to a storybook and a must-see for Harry Potter fans. The Grassmarket offers a lively historic atmosphere with great pubs and unique shops, though it can get very crowded during peak hours. Early morning visits are highly recommended for the best experience and photos.

"The street was so cute. I loved the colorful buildings. It wasn't too crowded with people. Great place for Harry Potter fans being that it's the inspiration for Diagon Alley. The Harry Potter tour location is right there on Victoria Street too."

Alli Hogan

"Really beautiful street. It's undoubtedly busy during the day but for good reason. A few solid pubs. Some really great and cute shops that have nicer and more local geared art and products versus the more touristy vibe of the Royal Mile where every shop sold the same things. We went in a bunch of places and had great service and conversation with the staff including the Red Door Gallery, Mellis Cheese, Cubitts, The Bow Bar and more. If you get here early, it's the best time for photos before the crowds roll in."

Josh Brown

"I had a lovely time exploring Victoria Street in Edinburgh! The colorful buildings, unique little shops, and charming cafés made it feel like walking through a storybook. There’s so much character in every corner—from the cobbled streets to the local boutiques. It’s a perfect place to take photos, grab a coffee, and enjoy the historic charm of the city. Definitely one of my favorite spots in Edinburgh!"

Amna 9

What People Like

Colorful, charming street
Harry Potter inspiration
Unique independent shops

What People Dislike

Can get very crowded
Steep inclines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grassmarket and Victoria Street are easily accessible on foot from the Royal Mile, just a short downhill stroll. You can also take local buses that stop nearby. Many visitors find walking the most scenic way to arrive. TikTok

Parking in the immediate Grassmarket area is limited and can be expensive. The closest multi-story car parks are NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace or St James Quarter. It's often easier to use public transport or walk. TikTok

Yes, several bus routes stop near the Grassmarket, which is at the bottom of Victoria Street. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the area. TikTok

The Grassmarket area is generally accessible, but Victoria Street has a steep incline and cobblestones, which can be challenging for wheelchairs. Some shops may have steps. Instagram

Walking is the best way to experience the charm of both areas. Take your time to wander down Victoria Street and explore the nooks and crannies of the Grassmarket. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Victoria Street and Grassmarket are public areas and do not require tickets for entry. You only pay for purchases within the shops or for food and drinks at establishments. Reddit

Most shops on Victoria Street typically open around 10 AM and close between 5 PM and 6 PM. Some pubs and restaurants have later hours. It's best to check individual shop websites for precise times. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to explore the Grassmarket. It's a public square and a vibrant part of Edinburgh's Old Town. Instagram

Yes, there are many guided tours, particularly Harry Potter-themed tours, that include Victoria Street as a key stop. These tours often depart from nearby areas. TikTok

The Harry Potter shop on Victoria Street is very popular and often has a queue, especially during peak times. Visiting early in the morning can help you avoid the longest waits. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best time for photography is very early in the morning, before 9 AM, when the street is empty and the light is soft. This allows you to capture the colorful buildings without crowds. InstagramReddit

The entire Grassmarket square offers great photo opportunities, especially with Edinburgh Castle in the background. Victoria Street itself is also a prime spot for colorful street photography. Instagram+1

Drone usage is generally restricted in built-up urban areas like Edinburgh's Old Town due to safety and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full sweep of Victoria Street's curve and colorful facades. A standard zoom lens is versatile for street scenes and details. Instagram

Generally, you can take photos inside shops for personal use, but it's always polite to ask permission from the staff, especially if you're taking many pictures or using a professional setup. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Grassmarket boasts many pubs and eateries. The Last Drop is famous for its history, while others offer traditional Scottish fare and a lively atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, some establishments on Victoria Street offer vegan and vegetarian options. Kilted Donut, for example, has delicious vegan donuts. Instagram

You'll find a range of options from traditional pub grub to more contemporary dishes. Many places focus on local Scottish produce. Reddit

Prices can vary. Pubs often offer more affordable meals, while some restaurants might be pricier. It's a good idea to check menus before committing. Reddit

Absolutely! Victoria Street has charming cafes where you can enjoy coffee and pastries, perfect for a break while exploring. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Victoria Street and Grassmarket offer a magical experience for families. The colorful buildings of Victoria Street are visually stimulating for children, and its association with Harry Potter is a huge draw. TikTokReddit The Harry Potter shop is a must-visit, but be prepared for queues. TikTokReddit In Grassmarket, the open square provides space for kids to move around, and many pubs offer family-friendly menus. Instagram Consider a family-friendly walking tour that highlights the history and fun facts of the area. TikTok

🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter Fans

For any Harry Potter enthusiast, Victoria Street is an absolute must-see. It's widely believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, and the resemblance is striking with its winding path and colorful shopfronts. TikTokReddit Make a beeline for the dedicated Harry Potter shop on Victoria Street to find magical merchandise. TikTokReddit Many guided tours in Edinburgh focus on the Harry Potter connections, often including a stop here. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Grassmarket and Victoria Street incredibly rewarding. The key is to visit at dawn for the best light and to avoid crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots of the iconic colorful buildings on Victoria Street. InstagramReddit A wide-angle lens is recommended for Victoria Street's curve, while Grassmarket offers opportunities for wider cityscapes with Edinburgh Castle. Instagram Look for unique details, textures of the cobblestones, and the interplay of light and shadow. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Victoria Street

Victoria Street is a curved, cobbled street in Edinburgh's Old Town, renowned for its vibrant, rainbow-colored buildings. Its unique architecture and winding path are said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley, making it a pilgrimage site for Harry Potter fans. TikTokReddit The street is lined with an eclectic mix of independent shops, boutiques, cafes, and the popular Harry Potter store. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended to experience its charm without the crowds and capture stunning photographs. Reddit

Beyond its cinematic inspiration, Victoria Street offers a delightful shopping experience. You can find everything from artisanal crafts and unique gifts to delicious treats like donuts from Kilted Donut, which also offers vegan options. Instagram The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, providing a stark contrast to the more commercialized Royal Mile. Exploring the small shops and interacting with local vendors adds to the authentic charm of this iconic Edinburgh street. Reddit

Grassmarket: History and Modern Life

The Grassmarket is a historic market square at the foot of Victoria Street, steeped in centuries of history. Once a bustling marketplace and a site for public executions, it now buzzes with a different kind of energy, featuring a vibrant array of pubs, restaurants, and shops. TikTokInstagram The square offers fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle, making it a picturesque spot to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere. Instagram

Today, Grassmarket is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It's known for its lively pub scene, with establishments like The Last Drop offering a glimpse into its darker past. TikTok Visitors can enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine, craft beers, and live music. The area also hosts various independent shops, including galleries and specialty stores, providing a more curated shopping experience compared to the main tourist thoroughfares. Reddit Its central location and historical significance make it a key area to explore when visiting Edinburgh. Instagram

Photography Tips for Grassmarket & Victoria Street

Capturing the essence of Grassmarket and Victoria Street requires a bit of planning, especially for photography enthusiasts. The most crucial tip is to visit very early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM. This is when you'll find the streets virtually empty, allowing for unobstructed shots of the colorful buildings on Victoria Street and the historic architecture of Grassmarket. InstagramReddit The soft morning light also provides a beautiful, warm glow that enhances the vibrancy of the street. Reddit

When shooting Victoria Street, a wide-angle lens is your best friend to encompass the entire curve and its charming facades. Instagram For Grassmarket, consider framing shots with Edinburgh Castle in the background for iconic views. Instagram Don't just focus on the main street; explore the smaller alleys and courtyards for unique perspectives. Instagram Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven, and be respectful of businesses and residents by asking permission before taking extensive photos inside shops. Reddit