Edinburgh Old Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience Edinburgh's history as you explore the Old Town and the Royal MIle, full of stunning tenement houses and monuments. See St Giles Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle. Hear stories about Mary Queen of Scots, Robert the Bruce and other famous Scots.
Available in
English
German, Spanish, Italian and French languages.
2-hour: Old Town Highlights Tour
Discover the essence of Edinburgh's history and culture. Explore the Old Town and see the Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, Canongate Kirk and more.
The Black Rock with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle are just 2 of the many many iconic landmarks of Edinburgh. On this private tour, you will get up close to the historical and cultural heritage of this city, where time seems to stand still, whispering stories from the past. We created this tour with passion and expertise. Book now and feel the beating heart of Edinburgh!
Available options
2H:Old Town Highlights ENG
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the essence of Edinburgh's history and culture. Explore the Old Town and see the Royal Mile,<br/>,: St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, Canongate Kirk and more.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - UKED008
2HOldTownHighlight GE,IT,FR,SP
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the essence of Edinburgh's history and culture. Explore the Old Town and see the Royal Mile,<br/>,: St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, Canongate Kirk and more. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - UKED008
What's included
Recommendations of the best things to do in Edinburgh
Interesting facts about Scottish history and culture
Free entry to the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town and Top Attractions
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide in front of The King's Gallery (formerly the Queen's Gallery), Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK
2
Stop 2
A 2-hour walking tour of the historic Old Town of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Start your adventure from the Palace of Holyrood, the official royal residence of British monarchs. Follow the legendary royal route to Edinburgh Castle, passing Victorian buildings, old churches and monuments inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site along the way.
3
Stop 3
Immerse yourself in fascinating stories about famous Scots, including kings and queens who shaped the history of Scotland. Discover popular museums and historic sites, such as the Canongate Kirk with the city's oldest cemetery, and the gorgeous St Giles Cathedral with a hidden gem - a statue of the Scottish unicorn (Macrat Cross)!
4
Stop 4
Feel the city's heartbeat as you stroll along the Royal Mile, and see the Heart Mosaic, John Knox House, The Real Mary King's Close, and other fun attractions
5
Stop 5
Feel the thrill of looking at "the most besieged place in Great Britain” - the magnificent Edinburgh Castle.
What's not included
Tickets to Edinburgh Castle (access only to Esplanade)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather.
Please note that paid tickets to Edinburgh Castle are not included in this tour, but we take advantage of free access to the Esplanade to show you in attraction up close. You can purchase entry tickets at the ticket office.
For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly.
We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of The King's Gallery (formerly the Queen's Gallery), Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK.
Important notes
Information for the customer (Know before you go)
- Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
- It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather.
- Please note that paid tickets to Edinburgh Castle are not included in this tour, but we take advantage of free access to the Esplanade to show you in attraction up close.
- You can purchase entry tickets at the ticket office.
- For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly.
- We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
