But recent decades have not been kind to many of retailing giants, and the likes of the iconic Jenners, John Menzies, C&A, Littlewoods and Woolworths have all disappeared.
Take a look through our picture gallery to see 11 Princes Street shops locals would like to see make a comeback.
9. Woolworth
The original 'pound' shop, Woolworths was much loved by Edinburgh shoppers and the flagship store at the east end of Princes Street was forever packed to the rafters on the weekends. Photo: IAN BRAND
10. British Home Stores
The frontage of British Home Stores in Princes Street Edinburgh in October 1970. The popular UK-wide department store giant sadly imploded in 2016. Photo: Ian Brand
11. John Menzies
Exterior of John Menzies store in Princes Street Edinburgh, April 1979. Photo: Hamish Campbell
12. Jenners
Edinburgh's most iconic department store closed its doors due to Covid restrictions in May 2020 - and never reopened again. Jenners had been a landmark on Princes Street for more than 180 years - and it is much missed. Photo: Third Party