Castles & Cobblestones: Private Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour

Edinburgh , Scotland

Castles & Cobblestones: Private Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour

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About this experience

This tour steps foot into the history of a city thousands of years in the making, where every nook and cranny has a story to tell.

Walking through the city streets of Edinburgh is a very special experience. There’s really nowhere else in the world that could compare. It seems that in Edinburgh, every passage will take you on a new adventure, a tale of two towns joined by one very unique urban identity.

Explore the monuments that everyone misses and hear the stories that only a local would know. See where kings were crowned, heads were lost, wars won, and legends were born. There’s always something exciting waiting around every winding wynd, waiting to be discovered, explored, and admired. TRIPorganiser’s Walking Tour of Edinburgh ventures beyond the cookie-cutter travel experience into Edinburgh’s secret history that has inspired the world for centuries.

Note: The Queens Gallery at Holyrood Palace is closed until 2024.

Available options

Basic Private Tour

Premium Private Tour

Entrance tickets included:: Holyrood Palace & Edinburgh Castle tickets included

What's included

Personal Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Edinburgh's Royal Mile is the heart of Scotland's historic capital.

Stop 2

Marvel at the architectural splendour of St. Giles Cathedral, the crown jewel of the Royal Mile, where Gothic grandeur and centuries of history converge in a magnificent display of craftsmanship.

Wander through the historic Advocates Close, a hidden gem of narrow closes and winding staircases that whisper tales of Edinburgh's medieval past and literary connections.

Stop 4

Ascend to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this fortress that has witnessed centuries of royal intrigue and military prowess.

Stop 5

Lunch Stop : At own expense

Stop 6

Discover the enchanting charm of Granny's Green Steps, a picturesque hidden stairway connecting the Old and New Towns, offering a serene escape amidst lush greenery.

Stop 7

Experience the vibrant energy of Grassmarket, a historic market square surrounded by eclectic shops, pubs, and tales of public executions, now a lively hub of entertainment and culture.

Stop 8 Pass by

Stroll through the eclectic streets of Cowgate, a district that seamlessly blends ancient and modern Edinburgh, with its vibrant nightlife, historic venues, and artistic flair.

Stop 9 Pass by

Step into the past at Fishmarket Close, a narrow alley lined with historic buildings and stories of fishmongers, providing a glimpse into the city's bustling trade history.

Climb Jacob's Ladder, a historic stairway that connects the New Town to Calton Hill, offering breathtaking views and a sense of connection between the city's different eras.

Stop 11

Climb Calton Hill to soak in panoramic views of the city and marvel at iconic monuments, offering a peaceful retreat with a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Stop 12

Wander through the hauntingly beautiful Canongate Kirkyard, a historic graveyard that echoes with tales of Edinburgh's past, featuring the final resting places of notable figures.

Stop 13

Explore the regal halls of Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland, surrounded by the picturesque Holyrood Park and the imposing Salisbury Crags.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Let's meet by the David Hume Statue on Lawn Market (Corner to The Mound / George IV Bridge).

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture