Guided Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town and Edinburgh Castle Entry

Edinburgh , Scotland

Guided Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town and Edinburgh Castle Entry

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About this experience

Delve into the rich history of Edinburgh’s Old Town on this guided walking tour. Starting at the iconic Tron Kirk, explore UNESCO-listed sites and hear captivating stories about the city’s past. Visit St Giles’ Cathedral and the Edinburgh Council Chambers, while uncovering secret closes and wynds that reveal the medieval heart of the city. Discover vibrant Victoria Street and the atmospheric Grassmarket, and learn about the legends that haunt Greyfriars Kirkyard. Conclude your adventure with skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle, where the Crown Jewels await.

- Guided walking tour through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town
- Visit key attractions like St Giles’ Cathedral and Grassmarket
- Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle included
- Expert guide shares stories of Edinburgh's vibrant culture and history

Available options

Guided Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town and Edinburgh Castle Entry

What's included

Entry Ticket to Edinburgh Castle

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Hear tales of the Scottish Reformation, John Knox, and the formation of Presbyterianism, all within the grandeur of this 14th-century church

he colorful and curving inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, with its boutique shops and striking architecture.

Stop 3

Here, your guide will recount tales of infamous criminals, dramatic escapes, and the area’s transformation into a vibrant district filled with lively pubs and independent shops.

Stop 4

One of Edinburgh’s most famous cemeteries.

Learn the the scope of the importance and historical landmark that is education.

hroughout the tour, your expert guide brings the city’s history to life with rich storytelling, little-known facts, and a touch of humour. Whether it’s the legend of Deacon Brodie, the real-life Jekyll and Hyde, or the ghosts said to haunt Mary King’s Close, every tale adds depth and colour to your experience of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Stop 7

The grand finale of your tour is a skip-the-line entry to the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, this awe-inspiring fortress dominates the city’s skyline and offers spectacular views over the Firth of Forth. Inside, explore the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the ancient Royal Apartments, and the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh—St. Margaret’s Chapel.

What's not included

Snacks

Tour guide will not be included inside the Castle

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be outside Tron Kirk opposite Bella Italia on the Royal Mile holding a Sign Top Sights Tours.

Important notes

Guide will check you have the correct entry tickets for this tour

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