walking tours edinburgh reviews

11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours Worth Your Money (ranked!)

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There’s so much to see in the heart of Edinburgh…where do you even begin?

As a city so rich with history and attractions, it’s easy to miss some of the most impressive details of Edinburgh.

One great way to ensure that you don’t miss out is to take a walking tour of Edinburgh!

These walking tours of Edinburgh will give you an up-close look at the city’s breathtaking architecture, and enlighten you on its history!

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Edinburgh walking tour is this Edinburgh darkside tour with mysteries and legends!

Click here to check prices and availability.

Whether you’re here for lighthearted fun, gruesome details, or a more classical history lesson, these tours will have you coming away with a breadth of knowledge you’ll be eager to pass on to your friends and family!

Not that interested in history?

Get to know Edinburgh from another perspective: dance your way through the city, instead!

With all the unique walking tours of Edinburgh to choose from, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect option to enhance your trip to Dùn Èideann , including Harry Potter walking tours Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town walking tours, and the best Edinburgh walking tours.

Which of these highly-rated tours is the best one for you?

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Edinburgh Walking Tours

1. edinburgh darkside walking tour: mysteries, murder and legends.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 2,800+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Visit and learn the gruesome history of Calton Hill
• Visit one of the city’s famous cemeteries
• Learn the eerie side of the history of Edinburgh
• Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from Calton Hill

Embark on an eerie evening tour of Edinburgh’s dark side with this popular walking tour !

Tales of murder, monsters, witch trials, cannibals, and other spooky subjects will send a shiver down your spine as you follow your guide around Old Town.

You’ll climb to the top of Calton Hill , taking in the sights as your guide tells of the gruesome witch trials that were once held there. 

Snap a few photos of the evening skyline, then head back down and explore one of Edinburgh’s most famous cemeteries on this walking tour Edinburgh.

You’ll visit either the Canongate Kirkyard cemetery (dating all the way back to the 17th century!) or the Old Calton Burial Ground (the final resting place of famed philosopher David Hume).

Creep through the graveyard as your guide shares haunting tales of murder, body-snatching, and even Hume’s rumoured deal with the Devil himself!

The tour concludes outside a local pub , where you might want to head inside for a drink to soothe your nerves after this haunting tour!

2. Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour w/ Fast-Track Entry

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars, 2,100+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to Edinburgh Castle
• Skip the line to get into the castle
• Entry to castle dungeons
• Knowledgeable tour guide on this walking tour of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is a sight to behold, but sometimes, just looking isn’t enough!

If you want to go beyond snapping a few photos, why not take a guided walking tour of the castle and go a little deeper?

This tour includes an entry to the castle , and even allows you to skip the line – no more waiting with all the other tourists!

You’ll meet your guide outside the nearby Caffé Nero, then enjoy a short walk down the Royal Mile toward the castle .

Once inside, you’ll learn all about the iconic Edinburgh attraction, with your knowledgeable guide covering 3,000 years of its history.

Beyond the main buildings, you’ll also get to see the castle dungeons and military prison, learn the dark tale of the Black Dinner, visit St Margaret’s Chapel, and more!

After the tour, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the castle museums at your own pace.

3. Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 3,200+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to ancient underground vaults
• Entry to a secret witchcraft temple
• Information about 18th-century city life
• Many unique photo opportunities

Discover an often missed part of Edinburgh on this eerie walking tour !

Follow a knowledgeable tour guide through the secret passageways beneath the city, where you’ll learn the history of these fascinating vaults and the people who found shelter within them.

You’ll be intrigued (and maybe a bit creeped out!) by the dark halls that await you underground – not to mention the ancient temple that was once used by Scotland’s devoted witches!

This tour isn’t for the faint of heart.

The bravest in your travel party will have the chance to step inside an old (possibly haunted!) stone circle – if they dare!

You’ll be encouraged to take plenty of photographs during the tour, which you’ll be anxious to show off to friends as proof of a truly unique experience.

Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, and requires the ability to navigate tall steps and a spiral staircase.

4. Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town – History and Tales

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 900+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Passionate local guide
• Unique route through Old Town
• Convenient location near public transportation
• Easy-to-find meeting point

Follow a passionate guide around Edinburgh’s Old Town on this fun walking tour!

Leave the map behind and instead let a local lead you around these UNESCO-listed sites.

You’ll meet your guide on High Street, right across from the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.

From there, you’ll embark on a 2-hour walking tour down the beautifully cobbled streets, learning the history of the area as you go.

You’ll want to have your camera out and ready to save all the stunning sights you’ll encounter along the way!

You’ll see (and learn about) the cathedral, the exterior of Edinburgh Castle , the Mercat Cross, the historic George Heriot’s School , Greyfriars Kirk and graveyard, and more!

Looking for kid-friendly tours of Edinburgh?

This tour is stroller accessible, and young ones will enjoy taking in the sights while the adults soak up the fascinating history.

5. Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh : best Edinburgh walking tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 800+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Comfortably small group (12 max)
• Learn about the famed writers and inventors of Edinburgh
• Plenty of time to stop for photos
• Free for children 12 and under

Poetry and history enthusiasts alike will enjoy this educational yet leisurely 3-hour tour of the Royal Mile!

You’ll meet your guide outside of the famed auditorium, Usher Hall – the perfect place to begin a tour about the history of the arts in Edinburgh!

During the tour, your guide will tell you all about the famous writers, poets, and inventors who have called Edinburgh home over the years.

Learn about 18th century poet and lyricist Robert Burns, who is now known as the national poet of Scotland.

Notable stops include The Writers’ Museum, Milne’s Court, Waverley Station , and much more!

Torn between an arts-focused tour and a more general tour that will take you by the main attractions of Edinburgh?

You’ll be happy to know that this tour also passes by Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral, so you’ll get to learn the history of these marvelous sites, too!

6. The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 740+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guided tour of Old Town Edinburgh
• Authentic Scottish guide (who wears a kilt!)
• History lessons packed with comedy
• Lots of laughs!

With all the stress that can come with travelling, you’ll be relieved to unwind and have a laugh on this fun-filled comedy tour !

Take a lighthearted walk around Old Town Edinburgh with your hilarious (and very Scottish) guide – they’ll even wear a kilt!

You’ll meet your guide outside of the Monkey Barrel Comedy club , then embark on a whimsical 2-hour (wheelchair and stroller-accessible!) journey.

Your guide isn’t just a professional stand-up comedian; they also have a remarkable breadth of knowledge about the history of Edinburgh.

On this tour, you’ll be both educated and entertained as your guide expertly balances historic fact and laugh-out-loud comedy.

You’ll see the exterior of St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard, The Writers’ Museum, and more iconic sites as you walk the Royal Mile with your witty guide.

Please note that this tour is age restricted at 16 years and up!

7. Edinburgh – Dark History

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 280+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• History-focused tour of the Royal Mile
• Passionate, knowledgeable guide
• Excellent tour to take in the evening
• Wheelchair & stroller accessible

Not sure what to do in Edinburgh when the sun goes down?

Take this educational tour and learn the dark history of the city on this guided walking tour in Edinburgh!

Follow your guide on a harrowing journey into Edinburgh’s past and discover why it’s known as “ The Jekyll & Hyde City ”.

You’ll start your tour outside of St Giles’ Cathedral in West Parliament Square, then walk down the Royal Mile and learn all about the grisly murders, public executions, witch trials, plagues, and other haunting elements of the city’s history.

Don’t worry, your guides won’t pull any jumpscares; you’ll find the gruesome history lesson unsettling enough!

Besides the cathedral, you can also expect to encounter the site of the old Tolbooth Prison, the iconic Mercat Cross , and other historic sites that are full of disturbing details.

You’ll end your tour at the Canongate Kirkyard, which dates all the way back to the late 17th century!

8. Silent Disco Adventure Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 260+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Radio headsets
• Fun and familiar music playlist
• Large group (60 maximum)
• Unique way of seeing the city!

Put on your comfiest shoes and dance your way through Edinburgh on this eccentric “walking” tour !

Your tour starts and ends outside of The Piper’s Rest, an exceptionally rated restaurant along the Royal Mile.

(In August, the tour starts and ends at Uplands Roast, a charming coffee shop at the University of Edinburgh.)

Put on your radio headset (provided at the start of the tour) and groove your way down the Royal Mile with a large group of fun-loving travelers!

Dance to familiar and upbeat songs as you pass by iconic Edinburgh attractions, including St Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish National Gallery, and the idyllic Princes Street Gardens.

Anxious about dancing in public?

With up to 60 people in your tour group, you’ll be in good company and won’t have to worry about being the only one dancing.

In fact, passersby will likely be envious of the great time you’re all having!

9. Private Old Edinburgh Tour – Walk in the footsteps of Royals and Rogues!

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 160+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Visit three historic execution sites
• Visit the old site of the Tolbooth Prison
• Private tour – no strangers!
• Knowledgeable local guide

There are many great public tours in Edinburgh, but what if you’re not excited by the idea of following a crowd of strangers?

This private walking tour of Old Town Edinburgh is for you!

Meet your guide at the main entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard.

There, you’ll learn about Greyfriars Bobby – a famous dog that has been honored with an iconic statue in the graveyard.

From there, your guide will lead you through Old Town , showing you archival photographs of what the area was like in days past.

You’ll learn the gruesome history of the city, visiting three of its former execution sites as well as the infamous Tolbooth Prison .

Unlike most other Edinburgh tours, this tour will also take you through The Cowgate.

While walking down this historic street, you’ll learn what life was like for the poor in Edinburgh back in the Victorian era.

Of course, there are plenty of well-known stops along the way, too, including the Mercat Cross, Candlemaker Row, the University of Edinburgh, and more!

10. Guided 90-Minute Photography and sightseeing Tour in Edinburgh : best walking tours Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 130+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Less touristy route – see the city like a local!
• Tips on how to take the best vacation photos
• Social media tips for posting photos
• Tons of great photo ops!

Whether you’re looking to grow your social media account as a travel influencer, taking photos to share with friends and family, or just want some great shots to put in your personal travel scrapbook, you’re sure to get the best vacay photos on this tour !

Take a private, guided tour with a professional photographer who’ll show you the best way to capture the gorgeous views across Edinburgh.

You’ll be happy to get a break from the crowds as your guide leads you down side-streets and shows you parts of the city that a lot of tourists miss out on!

But don’t worry, you’ll still get to see (and take stunning photos of!) the most iconic sites in Edinburgh, like St Giles’ Cathedral, Holyrood Park, and, of course, Edinburgh Castle!

During the tour, you’ll also learn the best tips and tricks for using hashtags and editing your photos before posting them to Instagram.

11. Edinburgh: The Witches Tour : walking tours in Edinburgh, Scotland

⭐️  RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to the National Museum of Scotland
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Learn how to read rune stones
• Learn how to use a pendulum

Curious about the history of witchcraft in Edinburgh ?

Take The Witches Tour !

Your guide will lead you through the National Museum of Scotland and enlighten you on the fascinating history of the area’s witches.

Discover what witches were up to in the late 16th century through the mid 18th century, and marvel at the authentic objects that once aided them in their practice.

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to experiment with dowsing, reading rune stones, and uncover the dark history of hangings in Edinburgh – even visiting the site of such executions!

Weather depending, you may even venture to the roof of the museum, or, if it’s open, visit an historic witches’ shop!

All that talk of witchcraft got you itching to venture into the mystical?

Be sure to book a Chakra or fortune-telling reading (at an additional cost) for after the tour!

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best London Beatles Tours
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• 17 Best London Foodie Tours
• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best London Biking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
• 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
• 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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15 Best Tours in Edinburgh [2024]

Boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most iconic castles on earth, elegant Georgian architecture and much more, the Scottish capital surely belongs on everyone’s bucket list. If you want to discover this enchanting city, then booking the best tours in Edinburgh is an easy and enjoyable way to do exactly that. 

This guide to the best Edinburgh tours is here to help you choose which tours you should take. From foodie or whisky tasting experiences to spooky, Harry Potter and hop-on hop-off tours, there really is so much scope in this stunning city. 

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Fast-Track Guided Tour in English

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 1.5 hours

Booking an Edinburgh castle tour can really help you make the most of visiting this famous location. I t also includes skip-the-line entry to save you precious time . 

The experience commences with a walk up the Royal Mile, before taking your guided tour of the famous fortress. This includes explanations of the castle dungeons, the iconic one o’clock gun salute and the Argyle Battery. 

→ Click here to check prices and availability

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐| Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If the best underground tour in Edinburgh is what you want to find, check out this spooky tour of the city’s ancient underground vaults. It’s said that ghosts lurk here beneath the Old Town, and during the one hour tour your guide will regale you with gory tales about witchcraft and historic murders in the area.

Exploring the South Bridge vaults puts an entirely new spin on things, so don’t miss this if you want to see a different side to this elegant city!

Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

Another of the more quirky Edinburgh tours is this Dark Side walking tour. Expect to hear all about Burke and Hare, the city’s most notorious murderers, as well as the trials and even burnings that witches once endured. The practices of grave robbing and body snatching, plus stories of real life vampires and cannibals, are also discussed.

Sites visited during the tour include narrow, twisting alleyways, Calton Hill, the Old Calton Burial Ground, one of Edinburgh’s chilling cemeteries or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery. The tour finishes at a local pub near the Royal Mile where you can purchase a beverage to steady your nerves!

Edinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If all that after-dark activity sounds a little too gruesome for your tastes, then the best ghost tour in Edinburgh to book might be a more light-hearted comedy horror trip. Your conductor will share tales of ghosts, murder, grave robbings and victims of the plague as you ride around town.

The tour takes you through both the ancient Old Town and the Georgian New Town. It all takes place aboard a restored and black-painted vintage double decker bus. This was the sole survivor of the Necropolis Bus Company fleet, following a rather mysterious 1967 fire. This is a fun, light-hearted tour and a perfect option if you’re travelling with teenagers!

Edinburgh: Old Town History and Tales Walking Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This highly rated city tour of Edinburgh allows you to truly explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the safe hands of your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll stroll along the twisting streets of the historic Old Town.

Expect to be enjoyably entertained throughout this tour, as your guide shares all the stories you’ll want to hear about the Scottish capital. Sights to see include the old pubs of Grassmarket, places that inspired J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, St. Giles Cathedral and more. 

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 2 hours

Should you be seeking fun Edinburgh tours for the whole family, this Harry Potter locations tour could be spot-on. As well as sites associated with the books and movies about the boy wizard, you’ll also visit key Edinburgh landmarks such as Princes Street, the Old Town and the castle.

J. K. Rowling wrote much of the books in Edinburgh, and during the tour you’ll see sights that inspired her works. These include the Castlehill graveyard that doubles as Voldemort’s final resting place, and winding lanes that Diagon Alley was based on. 

Edinburgh: JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 4.25 hours

Another contender as best walking tour in Edinburgh for a Harry Potter fan is this magical guided tour with Sam. Discover the many Edinburgh locations that inspired JK Rowling. You’ll also get the chance to find out which Hogwarts house you’d be placed in. As well as whether you’re a muggle, a squib or a pure-blood witch or wizard. 

It’s worth noting that this is a long tour lasting over 4 hours so if you’re short on time or prefer a shorter walking tour, check out the other Harry Potter tour listed above.

Edinburgh: Comedy Walking Tour with Professional Comedian

Rating: 4.9⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This walking tour led by a professional comedian has to be among the most entertaining tours in Edinburgh. Setting out from the Monkey Barrel Comedy Club in the Old Town, you’ll learn all sorts of fun local facts and trivia during the two hour walk.

Expect some swearing, adult humour and a strong Scottish accent from your guide, which is why this tour is intended for over-16s only. If you want to know why the gun salute takes place every day at one o’clock or other city facts, this could be your chance to find out. This recent review says it all:

“BEST SIGHTSEEING TOUR EVER! Seriously guys, if you’re thinking about booking any of the walking tours through Edinburgh, THIS ONE is the one to go for! Daniel is not only incredibly funny, but also really knows his Scottish History!”

Edinburgh: 24-Hour Family-Friendly Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Validity: 1 day

As with many cities across the world, some of the best tours of Edinburgh are jump-on, jump-off bus tours where you can travel when you please. This one is especially family friendly, and tickets are valid for 24 hours. 

With stunning city views throughout, this tour allows you to see places like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, the New Town, Castle Rock and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. You can hop off whenever you like to explore further, before boarding another bus to take you somewhere else. 

Edinburgh: Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Validity: 2 days

Royal Edinburgh is the focus for this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Tickets include three fast-track entrance tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle as well as flexible transport for up to 48 hours.

To simplify things even further, your pass includes use of buses operated by three different hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies. These are Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and Edinburgh City Sightseeing.

Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

You simply cannot come to Edinburgh as an adult without sampling the famous Scottish tipple! This whisky tasting and tour allows you to do exactly that. Your guide will also teach you about the five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Comprising close to 3,500 bottles, one of the largest whisky collections on the planet also forms part of this tour. Single malt and blended whisky tastings are also included, and you’ll also get a crystal tasting glass to keep as a souvenir. 

Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling

Another option for whisky lovers! If you’re looking for something to do in Edinburgh during the evening, how about this whisky tasting experience? It includes local history and folklore tales, so you can learn about the city while sipping for single malts.

The tour takes place on the atmospheric Royal Mile, after meeting your guide at the aptly-named Hot Toddy. With the whole of the first floor reserved for your group, there’s plenty of space to stretch out in while learning about Scottish whisky production. You’ll also sample four distinctive single malts from different distilling regions of Scotland. You can also choose to do the tour with no drinks included.

Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 3 hours

Whether you’re searching for unusual tours in Edinburgh because you’re a second-time visitor or because you really like to get under the skin of a city, this secret food tour can tick that box. Lasting for three hours, you’ll make half a dozen stops to sample Scottish delicacies.

Food and drinks to taste during the tour include haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed swede and potatoes), local cheeses, scones with butter and jam, gin and of course single malt whisky. The secret dish might also tickle your tastebuds. 

Edinburgh: Silent Disco Adventure Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If you want to experience Edinburgh in a truly unique way, then surely this Silent Disco tour is unbeatable! It’s not for shy and retiring types, though, as you’ll need to sing and dance your way through the city streets.

Moving through the historic Scottish capital to hits from several decades, you’ll pass lots of famous landmarks en route. It’s a different way to see the city, that’s for certain. 

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1.5 hours

A tour of Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium also provides visitors with something different to do while visiting the city. During the 90 minute experience you’ll discover how chocolate is produced, from South American cacao plantations to the finished bars available from Scottish chocolate makers.

You can even make your own chocolates, including the flavours of your choice, as part of the tour. Sampling Scottish and global chocolates is also included, with options ranging from chilli to whisky. I took my daughter here for something a little quirky to do together and we had such a fantastic time!

Whether you prefer the idea of dancing and singing your way through the streets, laughing until your sides split or visiting a Chocolatarium, we hope you’ve enjoyed discovering 15 of the finest Edinburgh city tours!

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Edinburgh Walking Tours

Discover Scotland’s history and culture with our city walks

• 20 years of experience: Learn from experienced tour guides
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• Family tours: Fun tours designed for families with kids
• Small group tours: Meet like-minded travellers

20 years of experience

Learn from experienced tour guides

Custom private tours

Customise your own tour

Family tours

Fun tours designed for families with kids

Small group tours

Meet like-minded travellers

· Edinburgh Tours ·

Explore the Scottish capital with our Edinburgh walking tours. Discover hidden alleys and historic landmarks. Delve into the city’s rich history.

Edinburgh Full-Day Walking Tour

Edinburgh Private Tours

Bespoke tours of Edinburgh, tailored to your interested and needs.

Meeting Point

2-4 Hope Street Edinburgh EH2 4D (Just outside of Johnnie Walker Princes Street and the Binns Clock).

Our small group Edinburgh Full-Way Walking Tour – With Castle Tickets starts from 2-4 Hope St. 

The meeting point of private tours will be discussed at the time of booking. Hotel pick up can be arranged for private tours.

Edinburgh Walking Tours is an emerging brand under Clan Pascual Tours. We design and deliver private and small-group walking tours in Edinburgh. Our passion for culture and history enables us to provide authentic and comprehensive experiences. As a hallmark of quality and trust, being part of Clan Pascual Tours ensures that each tour is steeped in excellence.

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Underground Ghost Tours, History Tours, & Walking Tours in Edinburgh.

Experience the underground horror in edinburgh.

Our entertaining and professional ghost guides will lead you on a walking tour through Edinburgh’s hidden wynds and secret courtyards.

Come with us and explore the secrets of the underground beneath Edinburgh’s streets whilst hearing some of Scotland’s darkest stories, the curious, the uncanny and the terrifying.

Every City is full of secrets, Edinburgh is no exception.

Dare you descend?

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 1 Hour and 15 Minutes
• Tags Ages 5+

World Famous Underground Ghost Tour @ 18:10; 18:45; 19:45

Edinburgh is undoubtedly the most haunted city in the world! are you ready to find out why? Let one of Edinburgh most infamous sons or daughters lead you round the dark side of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

• Tags Ages 18+

Extreme Paranormal Ghost Tour Edinburgh @ 21:15

For the hardened Ghost hunter, or the non-believer, this late night walking ghost tour is not for the faint-hearted! Explore the mysterious Greyfriars Kirkyard cemetery and more at night.

Tour of Terror @ 20:45

Shiver at the weird noises… on this 75 minute guided ghost tour into Edinburgh’s extremely dark past, haunted streets, and winding wynds.

• Hour Glass 1 Hour

Old Town & Underground Ghost Tour @ 13:15; 15:15; 17:15

The Old Town & Underground Ghost Tour will then take you on a guided tour of Edinburgh’s underground vaults, for close encounters with the paranormal!

• Hour Glass 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

Old Town & Underground Historical Ghost Tour @ 11:00; 14:15

Join a local historian on our historical walking tour around Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. Learn about Edinburgh’s fascinating history, literature heroes, infamous criminals and battles that shaped our city.

• Hour Glass 1 Hora y 15 Minutos
• Tags Edades 5 +

EL TOUR DE FANTASMAS Y LAS BÓVEDAS SUBTERRÁNEAS @ 20:15

Serán conducidos por el pasado oscuro de Edimburgo y sus alrededores incluyendo el cementerio más encantado del mundo.

• Hour Glass 1 Hour and 45 Minutes

Original Whisky Tasting Experience @ 13:00; (17:00 in August)

The ultimate whisky tasting in the birthplace of Scotland’s national anthem. Enjoy 3 distinct whisky’s and learn the true history of Scottish whisky on this walking tour.

Charles Dickens Edinburgh Literary Tour

Delve into Edinburgh’s literary legacy with a tour tracing the paths of renowned writers like Dickens and Stevenson, including a visit to the alleged grave of a legendary fictional character.

Private Tours in English, Spanish, French & German

Daily ghost walk and historical tours are available for private booking with additional tours available on request only. Customize your groups walking tour of Edinburgh today!

AWARDS & REVIEWS

Tour was amazing and soldier jock didn't let them down. Lovely guy and done an amazing job. Had to deal with an unusual situation and he done it professionally

A perfect spooky treat for the family just before Halloween!! our tour guide was brilliant! she was very enthusiastic and got all the group joining in. Will definitely do it again!

Our guide was amazing. They went by the name James Barry. When we come back, we are definitely going to take the tour again and would love it if James could be our guide again. Lovely service. Amazing body language while telling stories. Well done.

Fantastically fun and spectacularly spooky evening walk full of historical stories and ghost tales with tour guide Soldier Jock who was very engaging, interesting yet friendly - ish! Would highly recommend

We was lucky enough to have Dr. Knox as our guide. He was fantastic. Made sure he spoke to everyone on the tour individually. Made fun of everyone. His storytelling and humour was just perfect. The tour was fascinating especially the underground bit at the end.

We went on the night tour with Soldier Jock, and what a brilliant time we had! Jock was informative and captivating with his stories, and there was a great blend of humour and horror on the tour. It was so interesting seeing a side of Edinburgh that's a lot darker than you first expect. Definitely recommended - thanks again, Soldier Jock!

Wee Walking Tours

Explore edinburgh, wee golden walk   every wednesday-sunday 11:00am, choose from three tour length options:.

Castle to Greyfriars Bobby:

1 hr. 30 min. 

Join us on an exploration of the top of the Royal Mile. Hear stories about history, myths, legends, and fictional characters. The tour weaves down picturesque Victoria Street to the Grassmarket and finishes at the iconic Greyfriars Bobby.

Castle to World's End:

2 hrs. 15 min. 

Including everything in our 'Castle to Greyfriars Bobby' tour, this op tion co ntinues along the Royal Mile with more stories that bring the city to life. We pass by and learn about some iconic landmarks such as St Giles' Cathedral and Tron Kirk, but there are also surprises for fans of various television seri es and movies . This tour finishes near the World's End.

Castle to Palace:

This option provides the full Edinburgh Old Town experience! Encompassing everything from our two other tours, continue along for a fas cinating journey that covers the Canongate section of the Royal Mile before it finishes between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. 

*Please note that our walking tours do not go inside paid attractions (i.e. Edinburgh Castle or the Palace of Holyroodhouse).

Wee Private Walking Tours

We offer fully customised and private walking tours. Let us know what you are looking for and we can help you design a unique Edinburgh walking tour.

Wee Finnish Walking Tours

We also provide private tours in Finnish. You can request to have a fully customised tour or a scheduled itinerary such as our Wee Golden Walks.

Walking Tours 

Starting location.

All walking tours start at the top of the Royal Mile (Castlehill) at the base of Edinburgh Castle next to the Witches Well just past the entrance to the Tartan Mill. Please try to arrive a few minutes prior to the start of your walking tour. Look for Sami, your tour guide, who will have a Wee Walking Tours umbrella and grey backpack.

The Witches Well, Castlehill, Edinburgh, UK

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Edinburgh Walking Tours

Featured Tours

Old Town + The Royal Mile Free Tour

Old town + the royal mile free tour highlights.

• Historical introduction to Edinburgh
• Victoria Street
• Grassmarket
• Greyfriars Cemetery
• Mysteries about Harry Potter
• Mackenzie and paranormal activity
• National Museum of Scotland
• Writers Museum
• St. Giles Cathedral
• Presbyterianism
• Public executions
• Maggie Dickson
• Heart of Midlothian
• Mercat Cross
• Fringe Festival

Edinburgh is one of the most historic cities in Scotland and the entire United Kingdom and should be on your bucket list.

The city's rich past, royal legacy, and elegant medieval streets will make you wish you never had to leave.

The well-known spots are also close together, which makes it a perfect walkable city.

There are 4 types of free walking tours available in Edinburgh, Scotland:

• Harry Potter-themed Tours
• Ghost Tours

We are a group of local walking tour guides who lead daily walking tours in Edinburgh. We have also written several self-guided walks and recorded two city audio tours.

And, in the video below, Margaret, one of our local guides, takes you on a virtual walk of Edinburgh's Old Town.

We let you know about your options, provide schedules, and explain what you will see on each tour.

Hope to see you on one of our tours!

TOUR CALENDAR

Below is a calendar of some of the great walking tours available in Edinburgh, all from local guides.

Searching Availability...

More Tour Options?  More tours are available in the individual tour sections below.

• Harry Potter Sights

This schedule above is for tours in English. Click here for  tours in other languages , such as Spanish, German, or Italian.

This model of "free" tours is tours that are free to take. There's no need to pay at the end, but you can if you want. Engaging locals adds to the experience by offering understanding and insights. You can pay what you think the walk was worth at the tour's end, even nothing.

According to reviews on TripAdvisor, most people give €5 to €20 per adult to the tour guide when they like the tour.

These free tours are usually well-reviewed, and as good as any other walking tour in Edinburgh.

OLD CITY AND ROYAL MILE TOUR

This section provides information about each of the pay-what-you-like Edinburgh tours which cover the older parts of the city, including historical details to show how Edinburgh became such a notable location.

You can expect to see the following sites during these tours:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Canongate Church
• Scottish Parliament
• Queen’s Palace

If you want to learn more about these locations, please consider taking our GPS-led audio tour one of the pay-what-you-wish walking tours listed below.

We offer a 2-hour guided walk daily at 10:00 a.m. and again at 11:00 a.m. In summer months, you'll find afternoon tours as well. Book this tour here .

GPS-Enabled Audio Tour

We also offer an audio tour of historic Edinburgh, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides, that you could take whenever you wish.

Here’s a sample.

• Purchase an audio tour (£2.30)
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, pdf, and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s).

NEW CITY TOUR

As the name implies, this section will cover some of the more notable modern areas of the city, providing details about the recent history of Edinburgh.

If you’re looking for tips about the best places to eat or the most interesting newer attractions in the city, this is probably the best type of tour to take.

While on a New City tour, you can expect to see popular landmarks and sites such as these:

• Princes Street Gardens
• Scottish Prime Minister’s House
• Scottish National Gallery
• The main street for shops, pubs, restaurants
• Best views in the city
• Calton Hill

To see these sites and learn more about them, consider taking the following tours.

City Explorers

In addition to their Old City tour, this company also offers an outing that covers the newer, more modern areas of Edinburgh as well.

This New City tour is available in both English and Spanish every Sunday and Thursday at 14:00 (2 pm).

FREE HARRY POTTER EDINBURGH TOUR

Did you know that Edinburgh was actually one of the biggest influences on the Harry Potter franchise?

Many of the locations from the book are inspired by real-life places in this city.

To learn a bit more about these sights, or to visit on your own, take a look at our self-guided tour of Potter locations in Edinburgh.

And, in the video below, Margaret, our local Edinburgh Muggle, takes you on a virtual tour of Potter locations in the city.

Discover how Edinburgh became the birthplace of this young prodigy wizard who would eventually take the world by storm

There are at least two companies currently offering pay-what-you-wish walking tours which cover the many ties between Edinburgh and Harry Potter.

You can expect to see and learn about some of the following locations on this tour:

• The Original Diagon Alley
• The Inspiration for Hogwarts
• The Elephant House
• Where Lord Voldemort Was Buried
• Cafes and Hotels Which Inspired J.K. Rowling
• Discover the Origins of Quidditch

If these sites and subjects are of interest, consider taking one of the following free walking tours.

We also offer an audio tour of Harry Potter sights in Edinburgh, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides.

• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map

FREE EDINBURGH GHOST TOUR

There are a few different haunted tours that are free in Edinburgh, but for some reason Google doesn't want us to mention that here, so we've created an entirely new post that focuses specifically on this subject. If you're interested in learning more or booking one of these outings, please read our new article about free Ghost Tours in Edinburgh .

Free Tours with Tourist Passes

If you're planning to explore multiple attractions in Edinburgh, the Edinburgh City Pass may be your best value for the trip.

With this pass, visitors can access free walking tours at no additional cost, including:

• Edinburgh Castle Tour
• The Royal Yacht Britannia
• The Scotch Whisky Experience
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Edinburgh Bus Tours
• Auld Reekie Tours
• Edinburgh Zoo
• Museum of Edinburgh

By purchasing the Edinburgh City Pass, you not only gain access to these amazing spots of the old city of Edinburgh but also enjoy the best value of your visit without the need to queue.

Whether engaging with local history or uncovering sinister stories, this pass offers a more personalized experience for your Edinburgh exploration.

We have a g uide to the Edinburgh City Pass to help you decide if it is a good deal for your trip.

RELATED POSTS

• Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
• How to Get Discounts to Edinburgh Attractions
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

And much, much more, north america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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•  Established 2012  •

The ORIGINAL and BEST

Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh

and it's FREE!

Edinburgh Tour

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Celebrating 11 years!

2012 - 2023

Our FREE tours in Edinburgh depart every day at 12pm! Book your place now.

Book a paid PRIVATE tour at a time to suit you.

We offer discounts on private tours for SCHOOL and educational groups.

and share the magic with a friend or loved one...

Or click here to find out what our tour covers and why we're the best in Edinburgh!

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