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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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54 Cool Things to Do in Edinburgh: Hidden Gems, Unusual Attractions & Quirky Tours

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Seeking out Edinburgh’s hidden gems? If you’ve done the castle, hiked up Arthur’s Seat and spent a pretty penny drinking in the Grassmarket and feel it’s time to consider the unusual things to do in Edinburgh to kill boredom, impress friends or gift to a loved one, keep reading! 

From lesser-known locations to unique tours, this guide is ideal for visitors who like to do things a little off the beaten track while keeping it accessible. We hope locals pick up a few quirky tips, too. Tell us in the comments.

We’ve collated cool things to do in Edinburgh during the day and at night. Some of these activities are season-specific, so bookmark this post and refer to it throughout the year.

Hidden Gems in Edinburgh

Union canal .

Did you know Edinburgh had a canal?

Stretching from the capital all the way to Glasgow via The Kelpies in Falkirk, this waterway is a lesser-known thing to do in Edinburgh!

Walk or cycle along the canal starting at Lochrin Basin and Leamington Lift Bridge, close to Lothian Road.

There’s a barge cafe at this location. 

A popular stop along the canal is the abandoned Ashley Terrace Boathouse. 

Give Bum the Dog a Pat

We’re all familiar with Greyfraiar’s Bobby, but did you know that there is a statue of another dog in Edinburgh?

Bum, a bronze statue of a St Bernard-spaniel mix, is located at West Princes Street Gardens and like Bobby, there’s a backstory .

He is said to have arrived in San Diego as a stowaway pup and was adopted by Ah Wo Sue, a Chinese fisherman, around 1886-1898.

Edinburgh and San Francisco are twinned cities, so I wanted to celebrate this commonality by gifting Bum to Edinburgh!

Dean Village

Dean Village probably hasn’t been much of a hidden gem since the birth of Instagram , but it’s too pretty to leave out.

If you’ve not wandered from the West End down to Dean Village, give it a whirl for a time-hop experience back to historic Edinburgh.

Look out for the shapes etched into the stone representing the grain mills that once stood there.

Pay The Greek Goddess of Health a Visit in Stockbridge

Along the Water of Leith sits St Bernard’s Well and the statue of Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health.

Sit at the benches near the well and enjoy the tranquillity which once attracted locals taking wellness breaks.

Walk Under The Dene

As you head into Stockbridge, you will walk under The Dene, which is a myriad of steps and tunnels.

Built in 1824, The Dene has some Harry Potter vibes going on.

Spot The Colourful Saunders Sign

A street artist has brought a dull Saunders Sign to life in Stockbridge.

Which version do you prefer?

Poop Your Pants at the Man in the Water

It is a rite of passage to get a fright at Antony Gormley’s sculptures lurking about the New Town.

The Turner Prize winner has six faceless figures placed from the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art down to Leith Docks, and one stands in the water by the bridge on Deanhaugh Street.

Get a Snap of Circus Lane

As with Dean Village, the secret is out about Circus Lane, the cobbled mews with St Stephen’s Church in the background, but it would be a sin to leave it out just in case you missed it.

Wild West in Edinburgh’s Morningside 

Head to Morningside Road and turn right at Springvalley Gardens to find an abandoned spaghetti movie set! 

Find out more in our spooky locations guide.

Colington Tunnel for Street Art

Colinton Tunnel is an abandoned Victorian railway tunnel decorated in graffiti and street art.

The 140 m tunnel has been skilfully transformed and tells the area’s heritage via the poem From a Railway Carriage. 

Parking is located just a few minutes away from the tunnel.

If you prefer to walk, Colington is part of the city walking route, Water of Leith Walkway.

Jupiter Artland

Jupiter Artland is a cool spot just outside of Edinburgh.

Take a leisurely walk around the outdoor sculptures using the key on the garden map to find out more about each installation.

Eat soup and cake at the pink cafe!

In summer, you can reserve a spot to swim in the outdoor pool.

If you like hidden gem tips, check out the new Secrets of Scotland website.

Cool Things to do in Edinburgh

Above, we’ve covered the attractions you’d find off the beaten path in Edinburgh.

Next, we’ll take a look at cool places in Edinburgh where you can do an activity.

Some are daytime activities, others are evening based.

There’s also a mix of unusual indoor and outdoor points of interest, so if it rains , which it does often, you can choose something inside instead.

Watch a Film in a Pub

The Banshee Labyrinth has an actual cinema in it, and The Brass Monkey has comfy cushions and a screen at the back of its bar! 

Alternatively, go to The Dominion for a cinema with drinks. 

Play Vintage Computer Games

NQ64 on Lothian Road is a pub with various vintage computer games.

Is Pacman, Street Fighter or Mariokart your poison?

Do a Drag Show

It’s showtime!

Sing along with the drag artists at CC Booms or Planet Bar during one of their live acts.

Why not add a Mimosa into the mix at Brewhemia’s Drag Brunch events?

Find a Speakeasy

There are surprisingly few speakeasy bars in Edinburgh, considering how many pubs the city has!

The most popular, with those who can find it tucked behind a barber window, is Panda and Sons, its sister bar; Hoot the Redeemer is an Ev Ed fave; Never Really Here is a usual speakeasy with no drinks menu, the Secret Arcade serves a long list of vodka drinks and St Bernard’s Bar is a fun spot in Stockbridge .

Look out for Jackson the Tailor across from St. James’s Quarter for a secret bar with red velvet seats.

Or, Encore in the West End .

Hike 7 Hills 

See all 7 hills in Edinburgh by hiking them in a day!

It can be done, we promise. 

While the 7 Hikes Challenge is an annual event for runners, there is no official route.

You might want to get the highest, Arthur’s Seat, out of the way first.

From there, go back down the well-trodden path and walk to Blackford Hill for epic city views of where you’ve just hiked from.

Next, go through the Hermitage to Braid Hill.

Look out for golf balls from the golf course. 

The fourth hill is Craiglockhart; aim for the golf course and ask for directions. 

Hill number five is a stretch away, Corstorphine. 

There’s an opportunity to pop into Saughton Park to see the historic bandstand. 

Enjoy the view from Corstorphine Hill viewpoint, but keep heading to the tower for its summit. 

Head down to the main road from the viewpoint and walk all the way into town until you get to Edinburgh Castle on Castlehill.

Finally, hill seven is Calton Hill. 

In total, the hike took us 10 hours with five stops.

Volunteer at an Edinburgh Park

Join the Friends of Starbank Park or The Meadows to contribute to park restoration and development.

Make friends, give back and enjoy nature.

Kayak the Canal 

Edinburgh’s first canal-based urban outdoor activity centre, Bridge 8 Hub , is located 20 minutes from the city centre. 

You can hire kayak equipment, join programmes or organise birthday party events through the team at Bridge 8 Hub.  

Sleep on Barge

If you love the water, you’ll like this unique accommodation in Edinburgh.

Stay overnight in a boatlet with a terrace for scenic brunching and sundown drinks.

Moored at Lochrin, this quirky accommodation is close to a supermarket, restaurants, bars and Edinburgh attractions. 

The barge has two bedrooms and sleeps up to 6-8 people. Pets welcome.

Party on a Barge

You don’t have to sleep on the barge to enjoy a water adventure!

Hire a party barge like The Lochrin Belle for a unique floating experience.

Gin Cruise in Edinburgh 

Try five different gins while cruising Union Canal with Summer Hall Drinks Lab . 

Don’t like gin? Look out for the cocktail cruise.

This unique activity is also featured in our hen party guide.

Check out our gin guide for more botanical ideas!

Go Wild Swimming 

Portobello Beach is an option for those looking to get in the sea.

Wild swimming is said to have psychological and physiological benefits . 

Relax at a Floatation Tank Spa 

How does relaxing in a floatation tank sound? 

Switch off from the busy world outside, disconnect from technology, and give your body the option to heal and your mind time to zen out during an hour floatation session.

There are several options to consider.

You can float in total darkness or with some light.

There is also the option to have music at the start to help you settle, which then switches off, or you can keep the music on throughout your session.

All you need to take with you is a towel and flip-flops.

Bathing gear is optional.

If you have long hair, tying it in a loose pony or bunches is the best option to stop it from swishing around the water while still allowing you to lie back comfortably.

Couple floatation sessions are also available, which could be quite romantic!

Enjoy a Kobido Massage

Kobido is an intense face massage from Japan which involves pulling and swiping of the skin.

I’ve had a session with the Kobido Expert based in Granton near Leith , and people commented on my skin after, with one person saying it was glowing.

I will be invested in more of the unique massage.

Play Golf For Free

Hit the historic Bruntsfield Links Short Hole Golf Club near the Meadows for a game of golf.

All you need is your clubs and balls.

Try An Adult Dance Class

Visitors can check out the weekly ceilidh at Ghillie Dhu for an evening of being whirled around to Scottish music.

Locals should check out Dance Base at the Grassmarket for classes on every style, from ballet to Bollywood.

Throw an Axe

Feeling a tad annoyed of late?

Let that anger go by throwing an axe in Newington.

Black Axe Throwing (Summerhall Crescent) is where you can throw axes at targets.

It is much harder than it looks!

Go Skating at Ocean Terminal

Tie up your quad skates or inline blades and hit the highs of Boardwalk, the indoor skating rink for kids over the age of 5.

Ninja Warrior

Test your strength and stamina at Edinburgh’s indoor inflatable park, Ninja Warriors (126 Salamander Street).

This obstacle park is for kids and adults.

Jump in a Ball Pit

Kids don’t get to have all the fun in Edinburgh.

At Ballie Ballerson (14 Forrest Rd) you can dive into a giant ball pit with over a million balls then celebrate with a cocktail.

You can also order pizza and listen to the DJ play tunes.

The dress code is smart/casual.

Ski at Pentlands

Sure, there might not be much snow for skiing in Scotland, but you can ski all year round at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend.

Here, you can hire equipment and enjoy the dry slopes or join a class to learn how to ski.

Night skiing is also available.

Midlothian Snowsports Centre features in our guide on things to do at night in Edinburgh .

Award-Winning Foxlake Park

Adrenaline-filled outdoor activities your bag?

Foxlake (Dunbar, East Lothian) is home to the UK’s first ropes over water course, wakeboarding and segway activities.

Unique Things to Do in Edinburgh by Tour

Laugh and learn at the comedy tour .

If you’ve done the spooky walking tours in Edinburgh before and are looking for a more unique tour, consider the Comedy Tour instead.

Hosted by a local comedian, this one-hour tour takes you through the Old Town with lots of banter and giggles. 

Make Chocolate in the Old Town 

Learn where chocolate comes from and how to make it during this one-hour indulgent chocolate experience . 

If that’s not enough, you can try as much chocolate from around Scotland as you like in the tasting room!

Read our full review or book a tour slot .

Get Intimate at Gladstone’s Land

The R-rated Intimate Lives: The History of Sex and Desire is one of our favourite tours in Edinburgh.

Find out what goes on beyond closed doors at Gladstone’s Land !

The tour discusses who was having fun in each room of this 17th-century high-tenement house located on the Royal Mile in the Old Town.

The factual stories are diverse, voices are given to the town’s sex workers and you get to see what protection looks like throughout the ages.

This is a light-hearted look at intimacy run by the National Trust Scotland and highly recommended by Everything Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Black History Walking Tour

Lisa Williams, founder of the Edinburgh Caribbean Association and Honorary Fellow in the Department of History, Classics and Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh, discusses the links between Scotland, Africa and the Caribbean during  this 2-hour walking tour .

Learn About Craft Beer in Scotland

Taste beers from around Scotland as you learn about the 800 years’ worth of beer history that Edinburgh has influenced.

While the tour’s focus is beer, non-beer drinkers also enjoy it.

Check out the beer-tasting tour here .

Experience Whisky From Around Scotland

Jump into a whisky barrel to learn about how whisky is made in Scotland, then travel to the main regions that produce it from the comfort of the wide-screen cinema at the Scotch Whisky Experience on Castlehill.

Use the scratch and sniff card to decide which whisky is for you, then enjoy it in the bar, complimentary of this whisky attraction in the Old Town.

Don’t miss the warm glow of the vault and the impressive whisky collection. 

Reserve your tour tickets here .

While this is a popular thing for tourists to do, many locals haven’t visited the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Check out our guide to whisky tours for more options. 

Sample Food and Hear Stories

There’s a huge variety of food tours in the city, from traditional story-telling and haggis sampling to afternoon tea on a vintage bus!

There’s even a cheese crawl in swanky Stockbridge.

Check out our guide for full details.

See Edinburgh as Sherlock

This very unusual tour of Edinburgh turns customers into detectives!

The game teaches you about Sherlock’s connections with the city while you use an old map of Edinburgh to solve clues in an escape room-style manner.

Rebus Tour For Book Fans

Are you a fan of Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus novels?

Consider this two-hour walking tour for some insight into the books and readings delivered by a Rebus enthusiast.

Foodie Unusual Things to Do in Edinburgh

Dine at six by nico .

Look out for the menu at Six By Nico, which changes every six weeks and serves up six courses! 

Previous themes have included street Thai food, chippy food and Willy Wonka.

Don’t fancy dining out? Go for the dine-at-home box. 

Granton Garden Bakery 

Pick up a loaf and pay what you think it’s worth, with proceeds going to support the work of Granton Community Gardeners .

Open Saturdays 10am-2pm, Pilton Community Health Project window at the back of the building on Pilton Drive North.

Indulge at the Chocolate Cafe 

Continue your chocolate tour of Edinburgh at Coro The Chocolate Cafe (13 Frederick Street).

Enjoy waffles, pancakes, or fondue at this tasty cafe for wee kids and big kids alike. 

Coro is also featured in our Things to Do with Kids guide.

Visit The Marshmallow Lady

If you like hot chocolate, a visit to The Marshmallow Lady (14 Rodney Street) for a monster drink with homemade marshmallows the size of your hand is a must!

Donut Filled With Gelato

What would make a donut better? Stuffing it with delicious gelato and showering it in sauce.

Enjoy this sugary treat at Smoov Gelato Coffee on the Royal Mile.

The Edinburgh donut tour is featured in our food experiences guid e!

Bacon-wrapped in Naan at Dishoom  

Bacon rolls are ten a penny in Edinburgh, but you’ll only get a lightweight naan bacon sandwich with cream and chill jam at Dishoom by St Andrews Square!

Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Check out our brunch in Edinburgh guide for more tips.

Butter Beer Cocktails at Monteiths 

Harry Potter fans will like the butter beer cocktail at Monteiths off the Royal Mile.

Go through the close-lit fairy lights to get to this lovely Old Town bar.

Drink Vodka at the Secret Arcade 

The Secret Arcade up the lane from Arcade Bar (48 Cockburn Street) has over 60 vodka flavours, including homemade vodka!

Unique Events in Edinburgh

You’ve probably heard about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Hogmanay Street Party but what about the fire festival, Open Days for inquisitive folks and the Storytelling Festival?

Samhuinn Fire Festival

The Samhuinn Fire Festival occurs on Halloween at the top of Edinburgh’s Calton Hill.

Celebrate the transition from summer to winter, watching the costumed artists use fire, music, and dance to tell the narrative.

More information  can be found here .

Have a Nose at Doors Open Scotland

Doors Open Scotland  is a nationwide event that allows people like us to see behind normally closed doors.

Regions have a set date in September when old and new buildings are open to the public and free to visit.

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Culture fans enjoy the  Scottish International Storytelling Festival  every autumn since 1989. 

Local and international storytellers deliver shows at the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Netherbow Theatre in Edinburgh’s Old Town. 

Drink Beer at Oktoberfest

It’s not quite Munich, but Edinburgh establishments do their best to bring the Bavarian beer festival to the city.

Look out for your Lederhosen and watch Brewhemia’s social media channels for updates.

Attend a Bonfire Night

Remember, remember the 5th of November…

Watch fireworks explode into the night sky and feel the warmth from a bonfire during Guy Fawkes Night events around the city.

Highland Games Near Edinburgh

Head over to The Kingdom of Fife to see the Highland fling, let the bagpipes make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end and watch a caber being thrown about a field at a games day.

Ongoing Events

Browse Eventbrite for offbeat events in Edinburgh.

There is something to suit every kind of interest, like the Edinburgh Darlings make-up events.

Unusual Things to Do in Edinburgh

Here’s a wee list of unique things to find around the city!

How many do you see?

• The last gallow on the Royal Mile 
• Two faces of Deacon Brodie 
• Ian Rankin’s handprints at the City Chambers
• Blue man scaling a building 
• Laughing theatre faces
• Chinese dragons 
• The ivy heart 
• Letterbox in Holyrood Park
• Cow sculptures
• Little Ireland sign in Little Ireland 

City Centre and Beyond

• Regent Gardens Golf Course, you’ll need to strain your neck at Calton Hill to see it 
• Cale Gates in the West End 
• Lighthouse on George Street 
• Sharpener at Portobello Beach

Our Edinburgh Activities Articles

• Things to Do at Night
• Rainy Day Attractions
• 24 Hours in Edinburgh Itinerary
• Perfect Weekend Itinerary
• All Activities Articles

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Plan Your Trip To Edinburgh 

Book accommodation at Booking.com Reserve a skip the line pass or guided tour at GetYourGuide Save money with this Edinburgh Pass

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Scotland » 15 Best Edinburgh Tours

15 Best Edinburgh Tours

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and has been for nearly seven centuries.

Not surprisingly, in many ways, it’s considered the heart of the country and is the premier center for education, arts, literature, and engineering.

If you’re looking to relax on a white-sand beach and sip an umbrella drink, it’s probably not a wise destination choice, but for lovers of history and culture, it’s well worth a visit.

The city attracts more than a million visitors annually from around the world; with so much to see and do, you won’t have trouble filling your itinerary.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Edinburgh.

1. Walking Tour of Historic Old Town

If you like exploring historic icons, getting some fresh air and stretching your legs, this walking tour of the city’s historic Old Town district is a great way to kick off your Edinburgh adventure.

Your guide will lead you to places where buses and taxis can’t go and you’ll get a professional narration about the historical significance of the things you’re seeing.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes and will give first-time visitors a great overview of the city.

Unfortunately, it isn’t open to children younger than five. Remember to dress appropriately, as Scotland is noted for its cool, windy, and often rainy weather.

2. Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour

With a history dating back countless centuries, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is home to more than a few eerie tales. On this tour of its underground vaults, you’ll learn about them in the creepiest place of all.

The city’s vaults are one of its most popular attractions. This quick 75-minute tour will get you and your companions up close and personal with these macabre relics.

The tours are given during the day because otherwise, it’d be entirely too spooky.

The vault’s history is an amazing slice of Edinburgh; though they started out as storage areas, they became residences in the 17th century for the poorest of the city’s inhabitants.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Whether you believe in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster or not, this packed combo-tour is an excellent way to combine three of the area’s most popular attractions into one convenient tour.

It’s a full-day excursion which will lead you through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, and it starts and ends in Edinburgh.

Highlights include the majestic Stirling Castle, perched atop a rocky precipice and the one-time home of much of Scotland’s royalty.

Views of the vast Highland plains, Loch Ness and Loch Linnhe are included, as is a lunch stop in Ft. William where you’ll enjoy some hearty, traditional fare.

4. Skip-the-Line Ticket and Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle

This Edinburgh Castle ticket and guided tour combo allows guests to skip the lines like VIPs, which can save a lot of time if you’re visiting on a busy day.

The 1 ½ -hour tour includes unrestricted views of the surrounding city from the castle’s heights. Your guide will give you an amazing overview of the castle’s history, much of which is treacherous and bloody.

Despite its age, you’ll hear many accounts of the lives of the people who lived behind the castle walls, from royalty and soldiers to common laborers.

It’s an iconic slice of Scottish history that you won’t want to miss.

5. Harry Potter Walking Tour

Harry Potter is big business and a recognizable icon the world over. For fans of all things Harry, this two-hour walking tour is one that you won’t want to miss.

Author J.K. Rowling purportedly wrote much of the Harry Potter books in Edinburgh, so for those aspiring authors out there, this tour may provide some motivation.

Tour stops include many city sites that inspired the author to create her unforgettable characters and their dwellings.

High Street, Lord Voldemort’s tomb, and Hogwarts School are all included; you’ll learn how Edinburgh’s real history played a role in the story’s themes and setting.

6. 1-Hour Edinburgh Vaults Tour

Edinburgh’s vaults are one of the city’s most eerie sites, and if you’d like to see them in a rather quick tour, then this 60-minute option is perfect.

Along with your guide, you’ll descend below the city streets into this subterranean labyrinth of narrow passageways that in centuries past was the realm of the city’s poorest down-and-outers.

According to local lore, the vaults are haunted; when you hear stories about some of the inhabitants, you’ll believe it.

The candlelight reflecting off the dripping stone walls will drop your blood temperature a degree or two, and the tour’s short length will leave plenty of time for other adventures.

7. Loch Ness and the Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh

This full-day tour includes pickup and drop-off to and from your Edinburgh hotel and stops at two of the region’s most unforgettable attractions.

Though the tour lasts nearly 12 hours, you’ll get a great value for your hard-earned buck.

The tour includes views of the monument built to commemorate William Wallace’s contribution to Scotland, and Stirling Castle as well.

From there you’ll visit the Highlands, the Pass at Glencoe, Loch Leven and Loch Ness.

Guests will have a chance to relax on the shores of Loch Ness, and stops for coffee and lunch are scheduled as well, though their cost isn’t included.

8. Edinburgh’s Darker Side Walking Tour

If you’re up for meeting the restless souls of some of the city’s most unforgettable long-dead characters, then this fun and spooky walking tour would be a great way to spend a few hours.

Tales of cannibals, grave robbers, unsolved murders, public witch burnings and corpse snatchings are just a few of the somber tales you’ll hear along the way, but be prepared for your fair share of laughs too.

The two-hour tour brings the past to life like few others and is available in English, German and Spanish.

Refreshments are not included, and remember to dress for the weather.

9. Royal Yacht Britannia Ticket and Audio Guide

For much of its life – spanning nearly a half a century – The Royal Yacht Britannia carried the English Royal Family to all corners of the world. Many of the distant lands it visited were part of the country’s vast colonial empire.

The luxurious yacht is now moored in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith.

The cost of admission includes an audio guide available in dozens of languages; it’ll give you a fascinating narration as you stroll among the yacht’s exhibits.

Most of what you’ll see is original, and highlights include the royal bedrooms, sun deck, and the impressive engine room.

There’s a quaint café on board as well if you’d like to stop for some tea, coffee, or a fresh scone.

10. History of Whisky and Sampling Tour

Unless you’ve sworn off drinking, you’d be remiss to forgo a foray into the history of Scotland’s whiskey.

Scotch and Scottish whiskey are famous the world over, and for those interested in sampling some of the divine nectar, learning how it’s made, and understanding just how important it is, this tour is a must.

Tastings at four of the city’s most noted distilleries are included. You’ll learn the finer points of tasting the offerings, each of which has surprisingly unique characteristics that you may not otherwise notice or appreciate.

It’s best not to show up on an empty stomach and is a must for budding whiskey enthusiasts.

11. 4-Hour Pub Crawl with Drinks Specials

Edinburgh comes alive at night with drink-filled revelers of all stripes.

Its pubs, restaurants, and clubs are great places to meet locals and like-minded travelers, and for those up for a four-hour pub crawl, this tour would be a great choice.

Guided by your nightlife savvy local guide, you’ll hit many pubs that are off the beaten path.

From chic and contemporary to grungy and seedy, you’ll hit a sampling of the city’s watering holes and have a great time along the way.

The four hours will fly by, and at many of the stops, you and your companions will get free or reduced priced drinks.

12. Walking Tour of Old Town Breweries with Tastings

Just like whiskey, beer has been a staple of the Scottish diet and culture for centuries.

Many of Edinburgh’s breweries have been brewing for many hundreds of years and are national icons.

This tour kicks off from The Royal Mile. You’ll get a thorough overview of the industry that includes well-kept secret recipes, marketing campaigns, advertising and expansion from local brands to national and international ones.

Your guide will explain the subtle nuances that make each beer unique, and you’ll really gain an appreciation of what makes beer so good.

Tour size is limited to 12 to make sure guests get an intimate experience.

13. Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour

Part comedy and part ghost tour, this one-hour bus tour of Edinburgh’s dark side is a great way to learn a little history, see some amazing sights, and have a few laughs too.

You and your companions will be conveyed by a refurbished double-decker bus, during which your guide will keep you engaged with a running narration explaining the things you’re seeing.

Tales of murder, mayhem, plague, and executions will be included. The tour hits some of the city’s most noted areas, like Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirk.

Please note that food and drinks other than water aren’t allowed on the bus.

14. Magical Highlands Tour by Steam Train

For lovers of Harry Potter, this Edinburgh-based tour to the Magical Highlands is one that shouldn’t be missed.

The tour’s mode of transportation is a steam train, which gives it a unique feel that harkens back to a different era.

You’ll pass a few of the locations that were used when filming the movies, and you’ll get glimpses of Rannoch Moor, Fort William, and stop at the West Highland Railway Museum as well.

It’s a long tour at 13 hours, but it’ll probably be one of your vacation standouts.

Gratuities, lunch, and transportation to and from your hotel aren’t included.

15. Full-Day Scottish Highlands Tour

Scotland’s Highlands are some of the most expansive, lush, and green swatches of fields, forests, glens and rivers that you’re ever likely to see.

They are one of the country’s national treasures and home to Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument.

A stop at The Trossachs National Park is included as well, which is the former home of one of the country’s most famous and romanticized cattle thieves – Rob Roy.

Visits to a local loch, whiskey distillery, and majestic cathedral are also featured.

The tour usually lasts about nine hours; food and drink aren’t included.

15 Best Edinburgh Tours:

• Walking Tour of Historic Old Town
• Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour
• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
• Skip-the-Line Ticket and Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle
• Harry Potter Walking Tour
• 1-Hour Edinburgh Vaults Tour
• Loch Ness and the Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh
• Edinburgh’s Darker Side Walking Tour
• Royal Yacht Britannia Ticket and Audio Guide
• History of Whisky and Sampling Tour
• 4-Hour Pub Crawl with Drinks Specials
• Walking Tour of Old Town Breweries with Tastings
• Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour
• Magical Highlands Tour by Steam Train
• Full-Day Scottish Highlands Tour

Gay Edinburgh Edinburgh City Guide

Scotland’s cultural capital comes carved through with cobbled streets overlooked by hilltop medieval castles all within a rugged yet pristine woodland landscape. Edinburgh is her name, nicknamed Athens of the North thanks to her beautifully preserved medieval old town sat beside the elegant, neoclassical builds of the Georgian New Town. Clamber up Calton Hill to Arthur’s seat for sweeping views of the city and a playful, down-to-earth vibe that carries down to street level. The city’s strong creative community is felt full force in August during the esteemed Edinburgh Fringe Festival when cutting-edge theatre, comedy and performance take over, transforming the city into a den of endless possibility and playful wonder. All year round, however, visitors have no end of opportunities to enjoy the city’s amazing pub scene, bustling bistros and specialist delis, as well as a vibrant gay scene centred on a place known as ‘the Pink Triangle’ at the top of Leith Street. Confused about where to go and what to see in Edinburgh? Let Mr Hudson’s Edinburgh gay travel guide lead the way.

Feel like getting away? Take a trip planned just for you, and let us do all the work. Discover Trip Design

The best hotels in Edinburgh

Live the life of a laird at one of Edinburgh’s many luxury accommodation offerings, often housed within centuries-old homes with quaint, old-world interiors. The Dunstane Houses is one such beauty to offer all this, based out of a pair of stately Scottish villas in the well-heeled area of West Coates, just 10 minutes from the city centre. Allowing for much-needed tranquillity amidst grand Victorian sandstone architecture, The Dunstane Houses offer spacious yet cosy rooms that are decked out with soft wool throws, Afghan rugs and deep-soaking tubs alongside more quirkier accents such as orange velvet chaise longue and peacock-feathered wallpaper. The Orkney-inspired restaurant presents a novel tapas-style menu made using quality, local ingredients and when noon hits, guests can choose from over 100 single malt whiskies from the custom-made cabinet at the bar. Next up in our Edinburgh gay city guide is Hotel The Witchery by the Castle , equally as opulent, with its outsized four-poster beds, velvet-lined walls and gothic touches. All the rooms at the Witchery offer something special, including love seats, walk-in dressing rooms and tapestries all within view of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Have an indulgent breakfast hamper served in the room or settle in the restaurant among celebrity guests.

Hotel The Witchery by the Castle

Have an indulgent breakfast hamper served in the room or settle in the restaurant among celebrity guests at the The Witchery by the Castle

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