Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide

Edinburgh , Scotland

Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide

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About this experience

Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle with an expert guide. Admire the castle's treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels, St Margaret's Chapel, Mary, Queen of Scots Birthing Chamber, and more on our guided tour.

With your map in hand, your guide will lead you along the ancient cobblestone paths of this national monument. During the tour you will get to discover areas of the castle such as Hospital Square and the Western Panorama, where you can take in the breathtaking views. You will also see some of the more famous parts of the castle including: The One o'Clock Gun, Mons Meg, The Castle Esplanade, Crown Square, and more.

Your local guide will tell you stories of the incredible people who have shaped the Castle throughout the centuries. From stories about deadly banquets and daring midnight raids to the death of a queen and the birth of a king.

Be sure to set aside some time after tour for further exploration of the museums and exhibitions (not accessible during the tour).

Available options

Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide

What's included

Map of Edinburgh Castle

Professional Local Guide

Edinburgh Castle Entry Ticket

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is our meeting point. This is where we will get everyone checked in. This is where our introduction to the tour takes place before we head off to Edinburgh Castle.

Stop 2 Pass by

We will get our first look at the castle from the esplanade, your guide will explain the geology of the area and talk about the first settlers here. You will also learn about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Stop 3

This is where we begin our exploration of the historic fortress of Edinburgh Castle.

We will enter Edinburgh Castle through the gatehouse and we will arrive on the Argyle Battery where you will take in the views to the north and learn of the castles historic defences

Here we will learn about Edinburgh's famous time signal, The One O'clock gun

Climbing further up Hawkhill we will learn about the people who currently live in the castle, and those who have been held prisoner here throughout the centuries

Arriving into the Royal Quarters of the castle we will find Edinburgh's oldest building, St. Margarets Chapel. Hear about her life and how this building has survived to this day

Our final stop brings us into the beating heart of Edinburgh Castle. Crown Square where we find the historic home to our Stuart monarchs, The Royal Palace. We will learn of the palaces many residents and also of their most famous feature today, The Scottish Crown Jewels.

This is where our tour concludes, you now have the opportunity to explore the castle at your own pace, armed with all the new found knowledge you've acquired. Your guide will remain in Crown Square to answer questions for as long as required.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

197 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

156 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This tour is an outdoor experience, we recommend checking the weather forecast and dressing appropriately for the Scottish weather

This experience DOES NOT start at Edinburgh Castle. Please meet your guide at 379-381 High Street, Royal Mile next to the Statue of David Hume. Your guide will be holding a black and white umbrella with the EDI Tours logo on it.

Edinburgh Castle is still a functioning military garrison, therefore, the tour duration and itinerary may vary based on any ceremonial activities taking place.

Bags over 30L and suitcases are not permitted in the Castle and there are no left luggage facilities nearby

Ticket only valid on the specified date and time

From November 1st to February 28th the duration of this tour is 1.5 hours

On selected dates throughout November, December, and January Edinburgh Castle will host it's annual light show "Castle of Light". The Castle will close at the earlier time of 16:00 on the following dates: November: 21, 22, 28, 29 December: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30 January: 2, 3, 4

Meeting point

This tour DOES NOT meet at Edinburgh Castle. Please meet your guide in front of the High Court next to the statue of David Hume. Your guide will be holding a black and white umbrella with the EDI Tours logo on it.

Important notes

Please Note: This ticket is for a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle provided by EDI Tours. This ticket is NOT an admission ticket to Edinburgh Castle, you will receive your admission tickets from your tour guide when you check-in. Please make sure to check the meeting point details as we do NOT meet at Edinburgh Castle.

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