Tours in Edinburgh

Explore tours in Edinburgh — hand-picked places across every style and budget.

Places to Visit

Unlock 9 Explorer Tours Places in Edinburgh

Upgrade to explorer to access the best places Edinburgh has to offer and personalized recommendations.

Upgrade to Explorer

Walking Tours

6 places to explore

Photo of Edinburgh Ghost Tour
4.7

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

Edinburgh's Ghost Tour takes you through the city's eerie past, exploring haunted locations and telling tales of the supernatural. Expert guides lead you through cobbled streets and shadowy closes, sharing stories of spirits and unsolved mysteries. This walk is not just about scares; it also provides fascinating insights into the history and folklore of Edinburgh. Perfect for those interested in the macabre, the tour offers a thrilling way to experience the city after dark.

View Details
Photo of Invisible Cities Tours
4.7

Invisible Cities Tours

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

Invisible Cities offers a unique walking tour experience led by guides who have experienced homelessness. These tours not only cover Edinburgh's iconic sights but also share personal stories that provide insight into the city's social history. Each guide brings their own narrative, making every tour different and deeply personal. This initiative not only empowers guides but also provides visitors with a perspective they might not encounter elsewhere. It's an eye-opening way to engage with the city beyond the usual tourist paths.

View Details
Photo of City of Edinburgh Tours
4.5

City of Edinburgh Tours

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

City of Edinburgh Tours offers a variety of walking tours that cater to different interests, from historical explorations to spine-tingling ghost walks. Their 'Underground Vaults Tour' is particularly popular, revealing the eerie side of Edinburgh's history. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating anecdotes and lesser-known facts, making each tour an informative experience. Ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, legend, and a bit of theatrical flair.

View Details
Photo of Dean Village Walking Tour
4.5

Dean Village Walking Tour

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

Dean Village, a former milling area on the Water of Leith, provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling city center. This walking tour guides visitors through its quaint streets, showcasing the village's charming architecture and scenic riverside views. The tour highlights the historical significance of the area, with remnants of old mills and stories of the industrial past. Participants will appreciate the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to capture stunning photos of this picturesque locale. It's a delightful escape for those looking to explore a lesser-known facet of Edinburgh.

View Details
Photo of Sandemans New Europe Edinburgh Tour
4.5

Sandemans New Europe Edinburgh Tour

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

Leading you through Edinburgh's most iconic sites, Sandemans New Europe offers a comprehensive walking tour that delves into the city’s fascinating history. Guides are known for their engaging storytelling, bringing to life tales of royalty, notorious criminals, and the city's rich cultural tapestry. The tour covers essential sites such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and St. Giles' Cathedral, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to understand the city's past and present. Free to join, the tour operates on a pay-what-you-like basis, offering flexibility for travelers.

View Details
Photo of The Potter Trail
4.5

The Potter Trail

Edinburgh • Walking Tours

The Potter Trail takes you on a magical journey through Edinburgh, exploring the locations and inspirations behind the beloved Harry Potter books. Led by enthusiastic guides, the tour highlights places that influenced J.K. Rowling's writing, such as the Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Elephant House café. It's an engaging experience for fans of all ages, filled with trivia and anecdotes about the series. While the focus is on Harry Potter, the tour also provides insights into Edinburgh's rich literary heritage.

View Details

Guided Tours

4 places to explore

Photo of Edinburgh Castle Tours
4.7

Edinburgh Castle Tours

Edinburgh • Guided Tours

Edinburgh Castle Tours provide an in-depth exploration of one of Scotland's most famous fortresses. Perched atop Castle Rock, the castle offers breathtaking views of the city below. The guided tours peel back layers of history, from its Iron Age origins to its role in pivotal national events. Visitors will encounter the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in the UK, and the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scottish kingship. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with stories of sieges, royal intrigue, and military history. The Great Hall, St. Margaret's Chapel, and the National War Museum are just some of the highlights guests can expect.

View Details
Photo of Cadies & Witchery Tours
4.6

Cadies & Witchery Tours

Edinburgh • Guided Tours

Cadies & Witchery Tours stands out with its humorous approach to Edinburgh's darker history. Led by a troupe of costumed guides, these tours explore the city's grim past, from witch trials to grave robbers. It's a blend of historical facts and theatrical antics, providing both entertainment and education. The unique style of storytelling keeps the atmosphere light-hearted, even when the subject matter is more macabre. A perfect option for those interested in history with a twist of humour.

View Details
Photo of Eat Walk Edinburgh
4.6

Eat Walk Edinburgh

Edinburgh • Guided Tours

Eat Walk Edinburgh provides a delightful blend of food tasting and cultural exploration. This guided tour takes you through the city's charming streets, stopping at several key locations to sample local Scottish delicacies. Alongside savoring traditional and contemporary dishes, participants learn about Edinburgh’s history and culture from knowledgeable guides. The tour not only introduces you to well-known venues but also uncovers lesser-known spots rich in flavor and story. Ideal for food lovers and history buffs alike, this tour offers a unique way to experience Edinburgh through both taste and tales.

View Details
Photo of Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour
4.5

Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour

Edinburgh • Guided Tours

The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour is a must for literature lovers. This unique tour combines the charm of Edinburgh's historic pubs with the city's rich literary tradition. Guides, often in character, lead participants through a journey of words and whiskey, visiting the haunts of famous writers like Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. The combination of storytelling, history, and a taste of local pub culture makes this an engaging and entertaining way to experience the city's literary heritage.

View Details

Self-Guided Tours

4 places to explore

Photo of Arthur's Seat
4.8

Arthur's Seat

Edinburgh • Self-Guided Tours

Rising above the city, Arthur's Seat is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This ancient volcano offers a relatively easy climb, rewarding hikers with stunning views of Edinburgh and beyond. The path is well-trodden, but sturdy shoes are recommended. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so start early to avoid the crowds. The summit is an excellent place to catch your breath and take in the cityscape, making it a memorable part of any visit to Edinburgh.

View Details
Photo of Royal Mile Walk
4.7

Royal Mile Walk

Edinburgh • Self-Guided Tours

The Royal Mile is a historic thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. This self-guided tour takes you past a series of fascinating landmarks, including St Giles' Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament. Street performers and traditional pubs add to the lively atmosphere. The route allows for leisurely exploration, with plenty of opportunities to duck into side alleys or explore shops offering Scottish crafts and goods.

View Details
Photo of Dean Village Walk
4.6

Dean Village Walk

Edinburgh • Self-Guided Tours

This self-guided walk through Dean Village offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center. Known for its stunning 19th-century architecture and cobblestone streets, the village once housed the milling industry. Today, it's a serene spot with beautiful views along the Water of Leith. The path allows you to wander at your leisure, enjoying the sound of the river and the sight of the quaint, well-preserved buildings.

View Details
Photo of The Meadows
4.5

The Meadows

Edinburgh • Self-Guided Tours

The Meadows is Edinburgh's beloved green space, offering a welcome respite from urban life. It's perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic on the expansive lawns. Locals and students from nearby universities frequent the park, creating a lively atmosphere. The park hosts various events throughout the year, from festivals to sporting activities, making it a dynamic spot. With paths lined by cherry blossom trees, spring is a particularly delightful time to visit.

View Details

Bus Tours

5 places to explore

Photo of Timberbush Tours
4.7

Timberbush Tours

Edinburgh • Bus Tours

Timberbush Tours is renowned for its comprehensive day trips that take you beyond the city limits, offering a glimpse of Scotland's stunning natural beauty. Departing from Edinburgh, these tours cover iconic sites such as Loch Ness, the Scottish Highlands, and the Isle of Skye. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the local history and culture, making the journey informative and engaging. With a variety of itineraries and comfortable coaches, Timberbush is a reliable choice for exploring Scotland's majestic landscapes.

View Details
Photo of MacBackpackers
4.6

MacBackpackers

Edinburgh • Bus Tours

MacBackpackers offers a unique take on bus tours, designed specifically for the young and adventurous traveler. The tours combine historical insights with a lively atmosphere, often accompanied by humorous anecdotes and storytelling. Departing from Edinburgh, each trip explores different aspects of Scotland, from the Highlands to the Isle of Skye, mixing cultural experiences with opportunities for hiking and exploration. The guides are known for their engaging and friendly approach, making the journey as entertaining as it is educational.

View Details
Photo of Edinburgh Bus Tours
4.5

Edinburgh Bus Tours

Edinburgh • Bus Tours

Edinburgh Bus Tours offer a hop-on, hop-off experience that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. These tours cover key attractions such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace, with a choice of live or recorded commentary available in multiple languages. Buses run regularly, making it a convenient way to see the city without the hassle of navigating public transport or traffic. The flexibility of the ticket allows you to plan your visit according to your interests and schedule.

View Details
Photo of Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
4.5

Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Edinburgh • Bus Tours

This hop-on hop-off bus tour allows you to explore Edinburgh at your own pace while taking in the city's iconic landmarks. With multiple routes and stops, this service covers everything from the historic Old Town to the modern attractions of the New Town. The open-top buses provide excellent views and are equipped with audio guides in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors. The freedom to disembark at any stop and rejoin later makes it perfect for travelers who want to delve deeper into specific areas. It's particularly useful for first-time visitors who want an overview before exploring on their own.

View Details
Photo of The Ghost Bus Tours Edinburgh
4.0

The Ghost Bus Tours Edinburgh

Edinburgh • Bus Tours

The Ghost Bus Tours Edinburgh provides a unique and entertaining way to explore the city's ghostly past. This theatrical bus ride takes you through Edinburgh's famously haunted locations, complete with spooky storytelling and dramatic performances by the onboard actors. The vintage bus adds to the eerie atmosphere, creating an immersive experience. Tours cover sites such as the Old Town and Greyfriars Kirkyard, where tales of ghosts and ghouls come to life.

View Details

Boat Tours

5 places to explore

Photo of Edinburgh Boat Charters
4.7

Edinburgh Boat Charters

Edinburgh • Boat Tours

Edinburgh Boat Charters provides bespoke sailing experiences along the picturesque Firth of Forth. With a selection of luxurious yachts, guests can enjoy private charters tailored to their preferences. The charters offer intimate views of iconic landmarks such as the Forth Bridges and Inchcolm Island. The crew is known for their friendly service and in-depth knowledge of the area, which ensures an insightful journey. Ideal for special occasions or simply a relaxing day out, these charters capture the essence of Edinburgh's maritime charm.

View Details
Photo of Forth Sea Safaris
4.7

Forth Sea Safaris

Edinburgh • Boat Tours

Forth Sea Safaris delivers an exhilarating experience on the Firth of Forth, taking passengers on a high-speed RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) journey. These trips offer not only the excitement of speed but also breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as seals and various seabirds. The tours are designed for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, allowing you to see Edinburgh’s coastal environment from an entirely new angle. It's an ideal choice for those eager to combine a love of history and nature with a dash of adrenaline.

View Details
Photo of Seafari Adventures
4.7

Seafari Adventures

Edinburgh • Boat Tours

Seafari Adventures offers exhilarating boat tours focusing on the diverse wildlife and stunning scenery of the Firth of Forth. Their high-speed inflatable RIBs take you close to the action, where you might catch sight of seals, seabirds, and occasionally dolphins. The knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary on the area's natural history and the impressive engineering of the Forth bridges. Tours run regularly, making it a flexible option for those eager to explore the marine environment.

View Details
Photo of Maid of the Forth
4.6

Maid of the Forth

Edinburgh • Boat Tours

Maid of the Forth takes visitors on a memorable journey across the Firth of Forth, offering breathtaking vistas of the iconic Forth Bridges. The tour includes a stop at Inchcolm Island, where you can explore the historic abbey and enjoy the serene natural surroundings. The knowledgeable crew provides engaging commentary about the area's history and wildlife. It's a perfect blend of culture and nature, making it ideal for families and history buffs.

View Details
Photo of Inchcolm Island Ferry
4.5

Inchcolm Island Ferry

Edinburgh • Boat Tours

The Inchcolm Island Ferry provides a more leisurely experience, taking visitors to the tranquil Inchcolm Island. Known for its well-preserved abbey, the island offers a glimpse into Scotland's monastic past. The trip itself is a peaceful way to enjoy the Firth of Forth, with plenty of opportunities to see seabirds and admire the surrounding landscapes. Once on the island, there's ample time to explore the abbey and enjoy a picnic in a scenic setting.

View Details

Things to do in Edinburgh

Book guided tours and activities