Grassmarket Edinburgh
Historic heart of Edinburgh, Grassmarket is a vibrant square with pubs, boutiques, and stunning castle views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Grassmarket Edinburgh
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heart of Edinburgh, Grassmarket is a vibrant square with pubs, boutiques, and stunning castle views.
"Great place for food and amazing castle view. Very lively place with a great vibe."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestones are charming but can be tricky. Opt for supportive footwear for easy exploration.
📸 Capture Castle Views
The views of Edinburgh Castle are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grassmarket's Vibrant Atmosphere
Grassmarket Square
A historic heart of Edinburgh, buzzing with pubs, cafes, and shops. Perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city's energy.
Stunning Castle Views
Various points in Grassmarket
Enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle from this iconic location. A photographer's dream, especially at sunset.
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Historic Pubs and Eateries
Throughout Grassmarket
Discover traditional pubs with centuries of history, including The Last Drop, a former execution site.
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Unique Boutiques and Shops
Grassmarket streets
Browse independent shops offering vintage finds, local crafts, and unique souvenirs.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cobblestones
Beyond the Pubs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestones are charming but can be tricky. Opt for supportive footwear for easy exploration.
📸 Capture Castle Views
The views of Edinburgh Castle are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
🍻 Explore Historic Pubs
Don't miss pubs like The Last Drop for a taste of history and local brews.
🛍️ Discover Unique Shops
Wander off the main path to find quirky boutiques and vintage stores.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestones are charming but can be tricky. Opt for supportive footwear for easy exploration.
📸 Capture Castle Views
The views of Edinburgh Castle are spectacular, especially during golden hour.
🍻 Explore Historic Pubs
Don't miss pubs like The Last Drop for a taste of history and local brews.
🛍️ Discover Unique Shops
Wander off the main path to find quirky boutiques and vintage stores.
🚗 Be Wary of Cars
Grassmarket is a pedestrian zone, but be mindful of occasional delivery vehicles.
☕ Halal-Friendly Options
Finding Muslim-friendly eateries like Zaza Coffeehouse is possible with research.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Grassmarket's lively atmosphere, stunning castle views, and abundance of food and drink options. It's praised as a vibrant, historic heart of Edinburgh perfect for exploring, dining, and soaking in the city's unique charm. Some find it can be crowded, and the historic cobblestones require comfortable footwear.
"Great place for food, drinks and to catch up with people. Beautiful view of the castle too"
Lauren Lang
"Great place for food and amazing castle view. Very lively place with a great vibe."
Waqas Ali
"I just love this part of Edinburgh plenty of food options, quirky shops vintage unique traditional. Definately the place to be."
Buck List
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grassmarket is easily accessible on foot from most central Edinburgh locations. You can also take local buses that stop nearby. If arriving by tram from the airport, alight at the Princes Street stop and it's a short walk downhill.
Yes, Grassmarket is very walkable from the Royal Mile. It's a short, scenic descent down Victoria Street or similar routes, offering great views along the way.
Grassmarket is primarily a pedestrian and cycle zone, with limited access for loading between 6:30 am and 12 pm. It's best to park nearby and walk in.
The best way to explore Grassmarket is on foot. The area is compact and best appreciated by strolling its historic streets.
Yes, Edinburgh is considered a very safe city for solo female travelers, and Grassmarket is no exception. It's a well-trafficked area with a lively atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Grassmarket is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
Grassmarket itself is always open as it's a public street. Individual shops, pubs, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to late evening.
There are no entrance fees to visit Grassmarket. You are free to explore the area at your leisure.
While Grassmarket is historic, many establishments are working towards accessibility. The cobbled streets can be challenging, so it's advisable to check with specific venues if mobility is a concern.
Yes, there are several hotels and apartments located directly in or very near Grassmarket, including the Grassmarket Hotel and Apex Grassmarket Hotel.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is with Edinburgh Castle in the background. Also, look for charming street scenes, historic pubs, and the colorful buildings lining the square.
Sunset offers a magical glow and stunning views of the castle. Weekday mornings can be quieter for capturing the streetscapes without crowds.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private businesses and individuals when taking photos.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the castle views.
It's polite to ask permission before taking photos inside pubs, especially if it's busy or you're photographing other patrons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Grassmarket offers a wide range of dining, from traditional pubs like The Last Drop to modern eateries. Many places offer great castle views.
Yes, you can find good takeaway options. Castle Rock is recommended for fish and chips, and Mania is noted for its chicken.
Yes, there are Muslim-friendly restaurants and coffeehouses in Edinburgh, including Zaza Coffeehouse in Grassmarket.
Try classic pub fare like fish and chips or haggis. Many places offer hearty meals perfect after a day of exploring.
The Grassmarket is famous for its pubs. The Last Drop is notable for its history, and many others offer a great atmosphere for drinks and socializing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: While the cobblestones can be a bit tricky for strollers, many families manage. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the densest crowds. Look for pubs and cafes that are known to be family-friendly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring the area itself is free, and the atmosphere is a major draw. Many of the unique shops offer souvenirs at various price points. Prioritize walking to save on transport costs and enjoy the free sights.
couples
+1Consider booking a stay at a hotel in the Grassmarket area for easy access to the romantic ambiance and stunning evening views. The area's vibrant nightlife also makes it a great spot for an evening out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History
+1Today, it's a vibrant hub, but remnants of its history remain. Pubs like The Last Drop are named after the executions that once took place nearby, offering a stark reminder of its former life. This blend of historical significance and modern-day buzz makes Grassmarket a unique place to explore.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history beneath your feet. Imagine the bustling market days and the somber events that unfolded here. It adds a profound depth to the experience of enjoying a meal or a drink in this iconic Edinburgh location.
Navigating the Cobblestones and Crowds
During peak tourist seasons and festivals, Grassmarket can become very crowded. TikTok and Instagram content often shows the area bustling with people. To avoid the thickest crowds, consider visiting on a weekday morning or during the shoulder seasons.
While it's a pedestrian zone, be aware of occasional delivery vehicles and ride-share cars. Redditors have noted that while it's meant to be restricted, these vehicles can still be present. Always stay alert and mindful of your surroundings as you explore.
Culinary Delights and Pub Culture
The pub culture in Grassmarket is legendary. You can find historic pubs that have been serving patrons for centuries, offering a true taste of Scottish hospitality. These pubs are perfect for enjoying a local ale or whisky and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
+1For those seeking specific dietary options, Grassmarket and the wider Edinburgh area are increasingly accommodating. Researching ahead can help you find places like Zaza Coffeehouse, which offers halal options, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit