Edinburgh · Old Town
Grassmarket and Victoria Street
A cobbled square under the castle and a curved, terraced street leading up from it. It has independent shops, pubs and eating places, and good views of the castle rock.
- 1 h 30
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Old Town
Data checked on October 5, 2026
The Grassmarket was a marketplace for centuries, and the castle rock rises steeply above it. Victoria Street curves up from the square to George IV Bridge, with a pavement terrace above the shops. The area works well as a lunch stop or an evening visit. The streets around it hold small independent shops.
What to look for
- The castle rock above the square
- The curved terraces of Victoria Street
- The small independent shops
- The pubs on the square
Opening hours
Always open.
A public square and street, open at all hours. Shops and pubs keep their own times.
Source: Forever Edinburgh (edinburgh.org), checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
It is about a 7 minute walk from the Old Town, and bus routes 8, 27 and 41 stop nearby.
Tip
Walk up Victoria Street in daylight for the colours, and come back after dark when the square fills with people.