Victoria Street
Edinburgh's most picturesque street, famous for its vibrant, curving architecture and independent shops, often linked to Harry Potter's Diagon Alley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Victoria Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edinburgh's most picturesque street, famous for its vibrant, curving architecture and independent shops, often linked to Harry Potter's Diagon Alley.
"Victoria Street is a photographer's dream and a shopper's delight, offering a magical experience."
🚶♀️ Walk both ways!
Experience the street's full charm by strolling up and down its gentle curve.
📸 Golden hour magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning light on the colorful buildings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Curve
The entire street
A picturesque, winding street with colorful, historic shopfronts that's a photographer's dream.
+1
Independent Boutiques
Various shops along the street
Discover unique gifts, fashion, and local crafts in charming, independent stores.
Harry Potter Inspiration
Victoria Street
Feel the magic as you walk the street rumored to inspire Diagon Alley.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Curve
Beyond the Harry Potter Hype
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk both ways!
Experience the street's full charm by strolling up and down its gentle curve. +1
📸 Golden hour magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning light on the colorful buildings.
🛍️ Shop local gems
Explore unique independent shops for souvenirs and gifts.
☕ Grab a bite
Numerous cafes and eateries offer a perfect spot to refuel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk both ways!
Experience the street's full charm by strolling up and down its gentle curve. +1
📸 Golden hour magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning light on the colorful buildings.
🛍️ Shop local gems
Explore unique independent shops for souvenirs and gifts.
☕ Grab a bite
Numerous cafes and eateries offer a perfect spot to refuel.
✨ Embrace the atmosphere
Soak in the historic ambiance and vibrant energy of this unique street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Victoria Street is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning, colorful architecture and unique S-curve, often cited as a highlight of Edinburgh. Visitors love the independent shops and the magical atmosphere, with many drawing comparisons to Diagon Alley. Some find it can get very crowded, and the slope can be a challenge for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Victoria Street is located in Edinburgh's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from the Royal Mile and Grassmarket. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Waverley Train Station.
Yes, Victoria Street is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for exploring on foot. Its gentle curve makes for a delightful stroll.
Parking directly on Victoria Street is very limited. The nearest public car parks are the Waverley Car Park and the NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace.
Victoria Street has a significant slope and cobblestones, which can be challenging for wheelchair users. Some shops may have steps.
Walking the street from top to bottom (or vice versa) allows you to fully appreciate its unique architecture and vibrant shopfronts. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Victoria Street is a public street and does not require any tickets for entry. You can explore it freely.
Shop opening hours vary, but most are open daily from around 10 AM to 5 PM, with some staying open later, especially during peak seasons.
There are no entrance fees to walk along Victoria Street. Any costs would be for purchases within the shops or dining establishments.
Yes, Victoria Street is accessible at night, and it offers a different, often magical, atmosphere with its lights.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays or later in the evening. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. Early mornings also provide fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Its distinctive S-curve, colorful Georgian architecture, and charming shopfronts make it incredibly picturesque.
The entire street is a photo opportunity! The curve itself, the colorful facades, and the views looking up or down the street are popular.
Drone usage in Edinburgh's Old Town is generally restricted due to its historic nature and proximity to residential areas. Check local regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the curve. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Victoria Street features a variety of independent boutiques, gift shops, artisan stores, and eateries, offering unique finds.
Yes, you'll find several charming cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering diverse culinary options, from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine.
Popular spots include The Knights Vault for Harry Potter merchandise and various independent boutiques selling clothing, gifts, and homeware.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place to find unique, locally-made souvenirs and gifts that are more distinctive than mass-produced items.
The shops have a charming, independent feel, often with a focus on local crafts, unique designs, and personalized service.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Look for shops selling fun souvenirs or enjoy a treat from one of the many cafes. Be mindful of the street's slope and cobblestones, which can be a bit challenging with strollers. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the busiest times. The Knights Vault, a shop often associated with Harry Potter merchandise, can be a highlight for young fans.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The street's iconic curve and the intricate details of the Georgian architecture provide endless compositional opportunities. +1 Aim for early mornings to capture the street without crowds, allowing you to focus on framing the perfect shot. Experiment with different angles – looking up from the Grassmarket, down from the George IV Bridge, or capturing the details of individual shopfronts. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the full sweep of the street.
Be patient, as moments of quiet can be found, offering a chance to capture the street's unique charm in its full glory. 🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
Take your time to browse the eclectic mix of shops, chat with the owners, and find something truly special to take home. From vintage finds to contemporary designs, the street offers a diverse shopping experience. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento that reflects the authentic spirit of Edinburgh.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Victoria Street
+1 The buildings lean inwards, creating a sense of intimacy and drawing the eye along the street's gentle arc. This unique design has made it one of Edinburgh's most photographed locations. Originally, the street was built to improve access and accommodate horse-drawn traffic. Today, its charm lies in its preservation of this historic character. The vibrant hues of the shopfronts, often painted in shades of red, yellow, and blue, add to its visual appeal, especially when bathed in the soft light of Edinburgh's skies.
Many visitors find the street evokes a sense of stepping back in time, a feeling amplified by the independent businesses that line its path.Inspiration for Diagon Alley
Victoria Street's unique appearance has led many to believe it served as inspiration for J.K. Rowling's fictional Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. While Rowling herself hasn't explicitly confirmed this, the street's magical atmosphere, winding path, and eclectic shops certainly lend themselves to such comparisons.
+1 Visiting Victoria Street offers a chance to immerse yourself in this enchanting ambiance, whether you're a Harry Potter fan or simply appreciate beautiful, historic urban design.Exploring Victoria Street's Independent Spirit
The street is also home to several charming cafes and restaurants, providing perfect spots to rest and refuel. Whether you're craving a traditional Scottish scone, a specialty coffee, or a more substantial meal, Victoria Street offers a variety of options to suit different tastes.
Community and Local Life
Victoria Street is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living part of Edinburgh's community. The emphasis on local businesses fosters a sense of place and supports the city's unique character.
During festive periods, the street often becomes even more enchanting with decorations and a bustling atmosphere, showcasing its role as a hub for both residents and visitors. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit