Edinburgh’s walking tours cut through the tourist fluff and deliver real Scottish history and culture.
These walks work perfectly for budget travelers and history buffs alike. The Underground Vaults tour stands out, taking visitors beneath the city’s streets to 18th-century chambers where the poor once lived.
The Darkside walking tour is terrific, combining true crime stories with historical context – it’s especially atmospheric after sunset.
For history lovers, the Castle tour provides the best bang-for-your-buck, covering both the fortress and the Royal Mile with expert guides who know their stuff.
Private tours cost more but offer freedom to set your own pace and focus on your specific interests.
Let’s explore our favorite Edinburgh walking tours.
Key Points
- For underground and haunted tours, options include the Underground Vaults Walking Tour, Haunted Vaults Walking Tour, and Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour.
- Historical and cultural tours cover Edinburgh Castle, with skip-the-line options and guided explorations of the castle grounds and interior.
- The Old Town Walking Tour and Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour offer intimate explorations of Edinburgh’s historic streets, architecture, and notable figures.
- Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour and Ghost and Gore Walking Tour focus on Edinburgh’s dark history, including themes of torture, witchcraft, and plague.
- The Terror Walking Tour and Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour cater to those interested in the city’s haunted past and witch trials.
Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town
One of the top walking tours in Edinburgh’s Old Town is the Underground Vaults Walking Tour. This 2-hour tour explores the city’s hidden history beneath the South Bridge.
With 93% of 6,614 reviews recommending the tour, it’s rated 4.5/5 on Viator and Tripadvisor. At £20.51, the tour offers an engaging and informative experience led by knowledgeable guides.
However, it’s not suitable for everyone – the vaults are dark, damp, and potentially slippery, with a 2-foot step and spiral staircase. Visitors should be aware of distressing historical themes and may find the atmosphere spooky.
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Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends
The Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour offers a chilling exploration of the capital’s sinister past.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this 2-hour excursion takes visitors through Edinburgh’s haunted locations, sharing stories of murder, monsters, and local legends.
Traversing the Royal Mile, North Bridge, Calton Hill, and historic cemeteries, the tour provides panoramic views and a deep dive into the city’s dark history.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience allows for intimate storytelling.
While not wheelchair accessible due to narrow passages, the tour receives high praise from past participants for its engaging content and professional guides.
Priced at $25.76 per person, the Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour offers an immersive, after-dark exploration of the city’s shadowy past.
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Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English
Visitors to Edinburgh can embark on an immersive 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, led by knowledgeable local guides from Little Fish Tours.
This highly-rated tour (98% traveler recommendation) takes visitors along the historic Royal Mile, sharing insights into the castle’s rich history and key figures. Guests can skip the line and explore the castle’s main buildings, including the dungeons and Crown Jewels.
The tour operates in all weather, allowing for independent exploration after the guided portion. With a maximum group size of 30, this experience is a great way to explore Edinburgh’s past and discover the castle’s significance.
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Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour With Entry Ticket
Exploring the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle has never been easier than with the Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour With Entry Ticket. This 3-hour tour provides unparalleled access to the castle’s storied past.
Travelers can expect a guided exploration of the castle grounds, learning about its royal residents, including the captivating tales of Mary Queen of Scots.
With free time to discover the castle’s interior, visitors can enjoy its museums, prisons, and iconic landmarks like the Chapel of Saint Margaret.
Praised for their engaging storytelling, the knowledgeable guides offer unique insights that bring the castle’s history to life.
Advance booking is recommended to secure entry, and visitors should dress appropriately for the outdoor experience.
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Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Touted as one of Edinburgh’s most captivating walking tours, the Haunted Vaults Walking Tour takes visitors on a chilling exploration of the city’s dark underground.
With over 1,900 reviews and a 95% traveler recommendation, this tour from Auld Reekie Tours offers an engaging mix of history and entertainment.
Guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, leading groups of up to 36 through the vaults.
While not suitable for those with walking difficulties or young children, the tour promises a spooky yet informative experience, delving into Edinburgh’s haunted past.
At £23 per person, the Haunted Vaults tour provides a unique window into the city’s shadowy underground world.
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Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh
Immersing oneself in Edinburgh’s captivating past, the Old Town Walking Tour from Little Fish Tours offers an intimate exploration of the city’s historic streets.
With 97% of its 1,865 reviews praising the tour, travelers can expect an informative and engaging experience led by knowledgeable guides like Max, Euan, and Angus.
The 2-hour tour covers Edinburgh’s Old Town, ending within a short walk of the iconic Royal Mile. Guests will learn about the city’s history, culture, and notable figures, all while navigating the charming cobblestone streets.
Appropriate for most fitness levels, the tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Edinburgh’s rich heritage at a reasonable starting price of $18.02.
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Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
The Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh offers visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks. This small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 participants, is led by knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring Edinburgh’s past to life through their storytelling skills.
Rated 96% by travelers, the tour covers the iconic Royal Mile, from the Usher Hall to the Scott Monument, providing insights into the city’s architecture, culture, and significant events.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the tour may not suit those with mobility issues due to the cobblestones and stairs. However, the majority of reviews praise the tour’s pacing and the guides’ ability to connect with the group, making it a highlight of many visitors’ trips to Edinburgh.
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Skip-the-Ticket-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour
For visitors seeking to maximize their time at Edinburgh Castle, the Edinburgh Skip-the-Ticket-Line Castle Walking Tour offers a convenient and informative solution.
This 1.5-hour guided tour allows you to bypass the long queues with priority admission, so you can dive right into the castle’s rich history and hidden gems.
Led by a local guide, the tour covers key highlights like the National War Museum, Crown Square, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the Crown Jewels of Scotland.
While the tour concludes inside the castle grounds, you’re free to explore independently.
Just note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
Read our full review: Skip-the-Ticket-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour Review
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Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Embarking on the captivating Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour, visitors explore Edinburgh’s darkest corners, uncovering the city’s chilling past.
Led by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd, this 2-hour excursion delivers a thrilling experience, earning a 5.0-star rating from over 1,300 travelers.
Navigating the city’s historic vaults and graveyards, the tour offers an engaging narrative of torture, hangings, and death.
While not suitable for young children or the physically limited, the tour provides a moderate challenge, allowing visitors to enjoy Edinburgh’s haunted heritage.
With 94% of participants recommending the tour, it’s a must-do for those seeking a captivating blend of history and the supernatural.
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Royal Mile Small Group Walking Tour – Optional Edinburgh Castle
Frequently, travelers embark on the Royal Mile Small Group Walking Tour to enjoy Edinburgh’s rich history and culture.
This highly-rated, 2-hour walking tour takes small groups through the city’s medieval streets, showcasing significant landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and the Royal Mile.
Led by award-winning local storytellers equipped with TourTalk radio receivers, guests enjoy an immersive and informative experience. The tour includes optional fast-track entry to Edinburgh Castle and admission to St. Margaret’s Chapel.
With a maximum of 18 travelers, the small group size allows for personalized attention. Though a moderate fitness level is required, the tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals.
Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s ability to enhance one’s overall Edinburgh experience.
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Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh
Travelers seeking a thrilling and eerie exploration of Edinburgh’s dark history can embark on the Ghost and Gore Walking Tour.
This 90-minute evening excursion takes guests along the Royal Mile, where they’ll encounter infamous apparitions and learn about the city’s gruesome past.
Led by the former cemetery director, Mr. Alexander Clapperton, the tour features tales of torture, witchcraft, and plague, as well as public demonstrations of historical torture devices.
Reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and humor, making the experience both informative and entertaining.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this ghost tour is a must-do when visiting Edinburgh.
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Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
The Edinburgh Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours takes guests on a delightful culinary exploration of the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns.
This highly-rated tour, with a 98% traveler recommendation, offers an intimate small-group experience to sample Scottish classics like haggis, neeps and tatties, Scotch whisky, and afternoon tea.
The tour includes a variety of food items, from traditional desserts to local fudge.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides historical insights and personalized recommendations.
With a minimum drinking age of 18, the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.
Prices start at $122.28 and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
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JK Rowlings Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh
On the JK Rowling’s Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh, guests embark on a magical journey through the historic city that inspired J.K. Rowling’s beloved book series.
With a near-perfect 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour highlights the key Edinburgh spots that influenced the author’s writing.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes visitors to Diagon Alley, Rowling’s favorite cafes, and hotels where she penned the Harry Potter novels.
Despite some reported issues with specific guides, the overall experience is highly praised, with travelers enjoying the engaging, passionate storytelling and fun elements like trivia and Hogwarts house points.
For Harry Potter fans, this tour offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the magic of Edinburgh.
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Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh
For travelers seeking a truly chilling experience in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, the Terror Walking Tour offers a thrilling adventure through the city’s haunted past.
With an impressive 91% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this adults-only tour promises supernatural chills as you explore underground vaults and learn about the city’s dark history.
Led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides, the tour highlights include access to hidden locations, a torture exhibition, and an immersive storytelling experience.
While not suitable for those with walking difficulties or those under 18, the Terror Walking Tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Edinburgh’s haunted past.
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Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour
Discover the captivating history and architecture of Edinburgh on the immersive Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour.
This 3.5-hour experience, rated 5.0 by 252 travelers, is led by knowledgeable guides praised for their engaging storytelling and ability to customize tours to personal interests.
Explore Edinburgh’s must-see landmarks, including the Usher Hall and Scott Monument, while learning about the city’s rich past.
The private tour allows for an intimate, personalized experience, with the option for hotel pickup and drop-off.
Despite some accessibility challenges, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Travelers consistently report an enjoyable and informative experience, making this tour a top choice for discovering Edinburgh’s charm.
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Edinburgh: Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault
Delving into Edinburgh’s darker history, the Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault takes visitors on a spellbinding journey through the city’s shadowy past.
Led by engaging character guides, this tour explores the city’s spookiest closes and strange places, uncovering tales of witch trials, historical figures, and magical deeds.
Highlights include visits to iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirkyard, as well as lesser-visited areas that reveal a darker side of the city.
With an impressive 412 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour provides an educational and entertaining experience suitable for families and history enthusiasts alike.
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Edinburgh Private Walking Tour
Embark on an immersive private walking tour of Edinburgh, uncovering the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks.
This 100% recommended experience features an insider guide who’ll share royal tales, local legends, and insider recommendations.
Explore key sights around the iconic Royal Mile and Greyfriars Kirk, with personalized attention for couples, families, and small groups.
Priced from $77.23, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The meeting point is at St Giles Cathedral, with the tour returning there.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the experience also welcomes service animals.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting engaging, knowledgeable guides, this private walking tour provides an unparalleled way to discover Edinburgh.
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Harry Potter and Horrible Histories Walking Tour in Edinburgh
For those seeking a more immersive and engaging way to explore Edinburgh’s captivating history and connection to the wizarding world, the Harry Potter and Horrible Histories Walking Tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Combining Harry Potter lore, historical insights, and hidden gems, this unique walking tour allows visitors to explore the city’s dark past and the locations that inspired J.K. Rowling.
Explore notable sites like the National Library of Scotland and Edinburgh City Chambers, all while enjoying the expertise and humor of knowledgeable guides.
Suitable for all ages, the tour’s popularity is evident in its 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, who praise the engaging content and overall enjoyment.
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Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour With Spanish Tour Guide
Visitors can explore Edinburgh’s captivating history and landmarks on the Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour with a Spanish-speaking guide.
The tour boasts a 98% traveler recommendation based on 145 reviews, with highlights including knowledgeable guides and engaging historical stories.
Starting at 9:00 am, the tour is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers and departs from the 190 High Street, ending at the National Museum of Scotland.
Though food and drinks aren’t included, the tour is stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.
Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, with the lowest price guaranteed from $19.31.
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History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour
The History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of Edinburgh’s captivating past. With 106 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, this 3-hour tour guides visitors through the city’s historic Old Town and New Town.
Led by expert local guides, the small group experience (maximum 15 travelers) provides engaging stories and historical insights. Highlights include significant sites like Greyfriars Cemetery, accompanied by fascinating context.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though the hilly cobblestones may pose challenges. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, making this a comprehensive introduction to Edinburgh’s rich history and culture.
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Recap
Edinburgh offers a diverse range of walking tours that cater to various interests. From exploring the city’s haunted past and underground vaults to delving into its iconic landmarks and Harry Potter connections, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a spooky adventure, these walking tours provide an immersive and engaging way to discover the enchanting city of Edinburgh.