Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Popular Shopping Districts in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has several distinct shopping areas catering to different tastes and budgets:

a. Princes Street

Overview: One of the most famous shopping streets in Edinburgh, offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens.
Types of Stores: High-street brands like H&M, Zara, Primark, and Marks & Spencer dominate this area.
Price Range: Moderate to budget-friendly.
Tips: This area can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Many stores have seasonal sales, so keep an eye out for discounts.

b. George Street

Overview: A more upscale shopping destination parallel to Princes Street.
Types of Stores: Designer boutiques, luxury brands, and high-end retailers like Anthropologie, The White Company, and Jo Malone.
Price Range: Higher-end, suitable for those looking for premium products.
Tips: George Street is also home to stylish cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a shopping break.

c. Multrees Walk

Overview: Edinburgh’s luxury shopping quarter, located near St. Andrew Square.
Types of Stores: High-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Harvey Nichols (a luxury department store).
Price Range: Premium and luxury.
Tips: Ideal for luxury shoppers or window shopping. Harvey Nichols also has a food market and restaurant worth visiting.

d. Grassmarket and Victoria Street

Overview: A historic area with cobbled streets and independent shops.
Types of Stores: Quirky boutiques, vintage shops, bookstores, and specialty stores.
Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on the store.
Tips: Great for unique souvenirs, Scottish crafts, and gifts. Victoria Street is often cited as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.

e. The Royal Mile

Overview: A historic street running from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.
Types of Stores: Souvenir shops, kiltmakers, and stores selling Scottish goods like whisky, cashmere, and shortbread.
Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on the product.
Tips: While it’s a tourist hotspot, you can find authentic Scottish products here. Be cautious of overpriced souvenirs.

f. Ocean Terminal

Overview: A shopping mall located in Leith, near the waterfront.
Types of Stores: High-street brands, a cinema, and restaurants.
Price Range: Moderate.
Tips: Combine shopping with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is docked nearby.

2. Grocery Shopping Options

Edinburgh has a variety of grocery stores and supermarkets to suit different budgets and preferences:

a. Supermarkets

Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Asda: These are the major supermarket chains offering a wide range of products, including fresh produce, household items, and international foods. Prices are generally affordable.
Waitrose and Marks & Spencer Food: Premium supermarkets with higher-quality products and prices to match.
Lidl and Aldi: Budget-friendly options with a focus on value for money.

b. Local and Specialty Stores

Scottish Delis: Stores like Valvona & Crolla and I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger specialize in Scottish and artisanal products, including cheeses, meats, and baked goods.
Asian and International Stores: Stores like See Woo (Asian supermarket) and Real Foods (organic and health foods) cater to specific dietary and cultural needs.

c. Farmers’ Markets

Edinburgh Farmers’ Market: Held every Saturday on Castle Terrace, this market offers fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
Stockbridge Market: A smaller market held on Sundays, known for its artisanal products and street food.

d. Convenience Stores

Co-op, Spar, and Scotmid: Smaller stores for quick grocery runs. Prices are slightly higher than supermarkets, but they are convenient for essentials.

3. Local Markets

Edinburgh has a thriving market scene where you can find unique items and fresh produce:

Grassmarket Market: Held on Saturdays, this market features local crafts, food stalls, and fresh produce.
Leith Market: A Saturday market in the Leith area, offering a mix of food, crafts, and eco-friendly products.
The Pitt Market: A street food market in Leith, perfect for foodies looking to try diverse cuisines.

4. Types of Stores Available

Edinburgh caters to a wide range of shopping needs:

Department Stores: John Lewis (St. James Quarter) and Debenhams (though some locations have closed).
Bookstores: Waterstones, Blackwell’s, and independent stores like Golden Hare Books.
Electronics: Currys PC World and Argos for gadgets and appliances.
Clothing: High-street brands (H&M, Next) and outdoor gear stores like Tiso and Cotswold Outdoor.
Pharmacies: Boots and Superdrug are the main chains for health and beauty products.

5. Price Ranges for Essentials

Here’s a rough guide to the cost of everyday items in Edinburgh:

Milk (1 litre): £1.10–£1.30
Loaf of bread: £1.20–£2.50
Eggs (12): £2.00–£3.50
Meal at a mid-range restaurant: £15–£25 per person
Public transport (single bus ticket): £2.00 (adult)

6. Cultural and Practical Considerations

Opening Hours: Most shops are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays. Supermarkets and convenience stores often stay open later, and some are 24/7.
Bag Charges: Scotland has a mandatory charge for plastic bags (10p per bag). Bring reusable bags to save money and reduce waste.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in shops but is customary in restaurants (10–15% of the bill).
Seasonal Sales: Look out for sales during Boxing Day (26th December) and mid-year (June/July).
Cash vs. Card: Most places accept card payments, including contactless. However, it’s good to carry some cash for smaller markets and independent stores.

7. Tips for Navigating the City

Public Transport: Use Lothian Buses or trams to get around. A day ticket costs £5.50 and covers unlimited travel.
Parking: Parking in the city centre is limited and expensive. Use public transport or park-and-ride facilities.
Weather: Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and carry a waterproof jacket when shopping outdoors.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to shop for essentials and explore Edinburgh’s diverse retail offerings. Whether you’re looking for everyday groceries, unique souvenirs, or luxury items, Edinburgh has something for everyone!

Edinburgh

Shopping and Essentials