SStreet art in Edinburgh: a self-guided tour of murals and graffiti
Street art is everywhere if you know where to look
Organizingholidays in Edinburghalso means discovering its vibrant street art scene, less famous than that of Glasgow or Bristol, but surprisingly rich. Giant murals, political stencils, works by international artists. This guide takes you on a walking (or bus) tour of the best examples.
Leith: the most colorful neighborhood
Leith, the former trendy port, is the heart of Edinburgh's street art. Take the tram (stop "The Shore") or bus 16.
Work by Conzo and Glöbel (The Shore)
A 20-meter mural depicting stylized faces in blue and red. On the side of the restaurant The Shore. Visible 24/7.
"Leith Deserves a Smile" (Bernard Street)
A giant yellow emoticon, created by an anonymous artist. It has become iconic. Near the pub The King's Wark.
Murals of "The Pitt" (Pitt Street)
A street food market (open weekends). The exterior walls are covered with graffiti by local artists. They change often.
"Welcome to Leith" (Ferry Road)
At the entrance of the neighborhood, a mural with writings and portraits of residents. Made with the community.
City center: surprises in the alleys
"Floral Lady" (Carrubbers Close, Royal Mile)
In the close near St. Giles, a portrait of a woman with flowers in her hair. Small but delicate.
"Cowgate Mural" (Cowgate under the bridge)
Under the South Bridge, the tunnel is covered in graffiti (some illegal, others commissioned). It changes constantly.
"St. Patrick's Street" (Southside)
An alley entirely painted with Celtic and geometric patterns. Little frequented.
Southside and Newington
"Edinburgh's Forgotten Mural" (Causewayside)
A mural from 1990, forgotten and then restored. It depicts an imaginary map of the city.
"Bike Thief" (Buccleuch Street)
Stencil of a stolen bicycle – a political comment on gentrification.
Artists to look for
Conzo & Glöbel:Italian duo (from Naples) active in Edinburgh. Recognize them by their stylized portraits.
Rogue-One:Scottish artist, black and white drawings, often birds.
Klingatron:political stencils (hourglasses, skulls, messages).
Bortusk Leer:colorful and childlike characters (smileys, monsters). In Leith.
Self-guided tour (3 hours)
Start:St Andrew Square (tram to Leith).
10:00:arrival at The Shore, photo at the Conzo & Glöbel mural.
10:30:walk along Bernard Street and The Pitt.
11:15:bus 16 to the city center (Carrubbers Close).
11:45:Cowgate tunnel.
12:30:lunch (The Banshee Labyrinth or take-away).
13:30:Buccleuch Street and Causewayside.
14:30:end.
Map and resources
Download the "Edinburgh Street Art" map (free PDF from the Edinburgh Street Art Collective website).
Instagram: follow @edinburghstreetart for updates.
Temporary street art (events)
Leith Art Walk(May): open studios and temporary murals.
Hidden Door Festival(June): art in abandoned places, often street art.
FAQ
Is street art legal in Edinburgh?
Most is commissioned (legal). Some graffiti is illegal, but the police only intervene if reported.
Can I take photos?
Yes, freely.
How long does it take to see everything?
3 hours for the full tour, 1 hour just for Leith.
Are there paid guided tours?
Yes, "Edinburgh Street Art Tour" (£15, 2 hours, starts in Leith). Book online.
Do the murals change often?
Those on Cowgate and Pitt Street do (every few months). Commissioned ones last for years.
What is the most famous mural?
"Leith Deserves a Smile" (yellow smiley) – a local icon.
Wandering with curiosity
Yourholidays in Edinburghare enriched with colors if you look up and step away from the main streets. Leith is an open-air museum, the center hides gems in the alleys, and every year new artists leave their mark. You don't need to be an expert: just wander with curiosity. And if you see an artist at work, ask if you can watch – they are usually happy to talk.
For a complete overview of periods, itineraries, budgets, and transportation in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to holidays in Edinburgh.
Review date:March 21, 2026