In short
Victoria Street is a curving street of colourful shopfronts that runs from George IV Bridge down to the Grassmarket in the Old Town. The best view is from Victoria Terrace, the raised walkway above the shops. Go before 8am to have it almost to yourself; it's free to visit.
Victoria Street is the most colourful street in Edinburgh. It curves down from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket in a sweep of brightly painted shopfronts, with a raised terrace running along the top. It’s one of the most photographed streets in the city, and one of the busiest.
What is Victoria Street?
Victoria Street was built in the 1830s as part of a project to improve access into the Old Town, replacing part of the steep, zig-zagging West Bow. Its curve and its two levels, with shops below and Victoria Terrace above, make it unlike any other street in the city.
The colourful shopfronts house independent shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs, including the Bow Bar, one of the city’s best-loved whisky pubs, near the bottom.
Is Victoria Street the inspiration for Diagon Alley?
You’ll hear it said all the time, and the street certainly leans into it, with wizard-themed shops among the independents. There’s no official confirmation, but it’s easy to see why the story has stuck.
How to get there
- From the top: turn off George IV Bridge, a minute’s walk from the Royal Mile.
- From the bottom: walk up from the Grassmarket.
Where to stand
Climb up to Victoria Terrace, the raised walkway above the shops. The steps up are near the top of the street, by George IV Bridge. Look down the curve towards the Grassmarket for the classic view of the whole street.
When to go
Go before 8am. By mid-morning, and all day in summer, it’s shoulder to shoulder. A wet street at dawn reflects the shopfront colours beautifully, and the street is very atmospheric after dark, with the shop windows lit.
Local tip
From Victoria Terrace, shoot down the curve towards the Grassmarket. After rain, the wet cobbles pick up the colours of the shopfronts.
Nearby
- The Grassmarket, at the bottom, an old market square lined with pubs.
- The Vennel, a stepped lane off the Grassmarket with one of the best street-level views of the Castle.
- Greyfriars Kirkyard, a few minutes’ walk away.
- The National Museum of Scotland, round the corner on Chambers Street.
Good to know
Questions people ask
Where is the best view of Victoria Street?
From Victoria Terrace, the raised walkway above the shops, looking down the curve.
Is Victoria Street the inspiration for Diagon Alley?
It's often said to be, though there's no official confirmation. Either way, it's one of Edinburgh's most photographed streets.
When is Victoria Street least busy?
Before about 8am. By mid-morning it's very crowded, especially in summer.
