Edinburgh’s most rewarding walks take you beneath the city’s surface – literally. The underground vaults tours are my favorite, offering an authentic look at the city’s working-class history.
The Royal Mile walks efficiently connect Edinburgh Castle (worth the skip-the-line tickets) to Holyrood Palace, showcasing the best medieval architecture along the way.
Evening ghost tours pack in both history and entertainment, especially in the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard. For special interests, themed walks cover everything from “Outlander” filming locations to stops at historic whisky taverns.
Let’s explore the best walking tours that make Edinburgh’s history come alive.
Good To Know
- Edinburgh offers a variety of walking tours, including underground, castle, Royal Mile, night, history, haunted, and Outlander-themed tours.
- Many tours provide skip-the-line access to popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle and offer small group sizes for a more immersive experience.
- Underground and haunted walking tours explore the city’s dark history, including tales of criminals, the homeless, and supernatural entities.
- History lovers can embark on captivating journeys through Edinburgh’s Old Town, learning about the city’s top attractions and Jacobite uprisings.
- For a unique experience, travelers can join a whisky walking tour and sample Scotch at iconic venues while learning about Scotland’s famed whisky culture.
Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh
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If you’re looking to explore Edinburgh’s hidden history, the Underground Walking Tour in the city’s Old Town is an excellent choice. The 2-hour tour takes you through dark, chilly vaults and passageways, where you’ll learn about life in 18th-century Edinburgh, including tales of criminals and the homeless.
You’ll also have the option to enter a former witchcraft temple. The tour departs from South Bridge and ends at Niddry Street, with a maximum group size of 36 travelers. While the walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour promises an immersive and informative experience, led by a knowledgeable guide.
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If you’re looking to explore Edinburgh’s hidden history, the Underground Walking Tour in the city’s Old Town is an excellent choice. The 2-hour tour takes you through dark, chilly vaults and passageways, where you’ll learn about life in 18th-century Edinburgh, including tales of criminals and the homeless.
You’ll also have the option to enter a former witchcraft temple. The tour departs from South Bridge and ends at Niddry Street, with a maximum group size of 36 travelers. While the walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour promises an immersive and informative experience, led by a knowledgeable guide.
Read our full review: Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh Review
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Skip-the-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour
Visiting Edinburgh Castle is a must-do on any trip to the Scottish capital, and the Skip-the-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour offers a seamless way to explore this iconic landmark. With a 4.7-rating from over 1,200 travelers and a 94% recommendation rate, this tour provides skip-the-line access to the castle, allowing you to bypass the crowds and dive straight into the history and secrets of this historic site.
Led by a local guide, the 1.5-hour walking tour covers key highlights like the National War Museum, the National Monument, and the Crown Jewels of Scotland. After the guided portion, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the castle independently.
Note that this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
Read our full review: Skip-the-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour Review
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Small Group Royal Mile Walking Tour With Optional Entry to Edinburgh Castle
Explore the best of medieval and modern Edinburgh on this small-group walking tour of the iconic Royal Mile. You’ll wander down centuries-old cobblestone streets, passageways, and tenements, led by award-winning local storytellers.
See St. Giles Cathedral, Parliament Square, John Knox House, and Castlehill, while learning about the city’s rich history. Opt for skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll tour the Royal Palace and Margaret’s Chapel, and see the ancient Stone of Destiny and the UK’s oldest crown jewels.
With a maximum group size of 18, you’ll enjoy a more immersive experience, enhanced by TourTalk radio receivers. Don’t miss this chance to discover the best of Edinburgh’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Read our full review: Small Group Royal Mile Walking Tour With Optional Entry to Edinburgh Castle Review
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Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour With Underground Vaults
On this small-group evening walking tour, you’ll explore Edinburgh’s darkest secrets and haunted history. You’ll explore the city’s mysterious alleyways and side streets, discovering sites of hangings and documented spirit hauntings.
Venture underground to the Blair Street Vaults, built under the South Bridge, where you’ll hear fascinating stories of crimes, hangings, and mysterious legends from expert guides. With exclusive access, you’ll experience the vaults by candlelight, enjoying the eerie atmosphere.
The tour is limited to 18 people, ensuring an intimate experience as you uncover the city’s notorious “bodysnatchers” and other chilling tales. Don’t miss this chance to explore Edinburgh’s haunted side after dark.
Read our full review: Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour With Underground Vaults Review
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Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Set out on a captivating guided tour through Edinburgh’s legendary Royal Mile, where you’ll uncover the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore famous writers’ haunts, marvel at St. Giles’ Cathedral, and capture the city’s beauty through your camera.
Explore Edinburgh’s hidden secrets and learn about its renowned figures, from poets to inventors. This 3-hour walking tour covers maximum 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about the heart of Scotland’s capital.
With a 4.9 rating and 96% traveler recommendation, this is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the essence of Edinburgh.
Read our full review: Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh Review
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Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underbelly on this spooky terror walking tour through the historic Old Town. Led by a professional guide, you’ll explore underground vaults and hidden locations, uncovering the city’s dark past and haunted history.
Brace yourself for a chilling encounter with a torture exhibition, where you’ll hear tales of the “Burning Times.” This tour is strictly for those aged 18 and over, as the content may cause genuine distress. Be prepared for a walking pace and terrain that may not suit everyone.
With 90% of travelers recommending this tour and a Badge of Excellence, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Edinburgh’s haunted side.
Read our full review: Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh Review
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Private Royal Mile Walking Tour – Discover the History of Our Most Famous Street
Take a stroll down Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile with a private walking tour that unveils the rich history and captivating stories of this famous thoroughfare. Discover the highlights and hidden gems along the way, led by a knowledgeable local guide in traditional Scottish attire.
Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the seat of Scottish monarchs, and make your way to the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Benefit from the expertise of your guide as they bring the characters and events that shaped Scotland’s past to life. This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with convenient public transportation nearby, and is highly recommended by 100% of travelers.
Read our full review: Private Royal Mile Walking Tour – Discover the History of Our Most Famous Street Review
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Scotlands Dark Secrets Walking Tour – Edinburgh
Venture into the dark underbelly of Edinburgh’s past on this captivating walking tour that uncovers Scotland’s most sinister secrets. Hear tales of the unfortunate souls who lived and died here, and learn about the city’s haunted history, from the ghouls lurking in the castle to the chilling witch trials.
Your knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the streets, sharing the darkest secrets of this historic city. With an interactive quiz and the chance to explore the buildings and locations where these events occurred, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss the chance to uncover the loathsome lawbreakers and ghostly inhabitants that have left an indelible mark on Edinburgh.
Read our full review: Scotlands Dark Secrets Walking Tour – Edinburgh Review
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History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour
A captivating journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town awaits history enthusiasts on this small-group walking tour. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll explore the atmospheric streets and discover the city’s top attractions. Spanning a maximum of 15 people, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience as you uncover Edinburgh’s rich past.
The tour starts at the Statue of Sir James Young Simpson and ends at the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic on the High Street, covering the highlights in between. Suitable for all ages and abilities, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and even allows service animals. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this is a must for anyone seeking to enjoy Edinburgh’s captivating history.
Read our full review: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour Review
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Private One Hour Harry Potter Walking Tour
Enjoy the enchanting world of Harry Potter on this private one-hour walking tour through Edinburgh’s captivating Old Town. Discover the places that inspired J.K. Rowling‘s beloved book series, from the iconic Royal Mile to the cozy café where she wrote the first novel.
Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with entertaining commentary about the characters and Rowling’s life in Edinburgh. Explore the city’s answer to Diagon Alley and learn how the Scottish capital’s historic architecture and atmosphere influenced the wizarding world.
This private tour ensures you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, with your group as the sole participants. Don’t miss this magical opportunity to uncover the real-life magical inspirations behind the Harry Potter series.
Read our full review: Private One Hour Harry Potter Walking Tour Review
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Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Darkness envelops the ancient streets of Edinburgh as you embark on a haunting exploration of the city’s ghostly past. This 1,289-review, 94% recommended Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour takes you through the Nidry Street Vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard, where the un-dead are said to roam.
You’ll learn about the beggars, criminals, and witches who met grisly ends, while keeping an eye out for sightings of the city’s spectral spirits. With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll navigate the moderate physical demands, including stairs to the vaults. As long as you’re not under the influence or easily distressed, this tour promises a chilling, unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh Review
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Outlander Walking Tour of Edinburghs Old Town
Shift your focus from the ghostly tales of Edinburgh’s past to uncover the city’s connections to the beloved Outlander series. This small-group walking tour takes you through the Old Town, stopping at filming locations featured in the TV show and novels.
Led by a professional guide and Outlander aficionado, you’ll learn about the Jacobite uprisings and life in 18th-century Edinburgh. The 2-3 hour experience starts at St Giles Cathedral and ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.
With a maximum of 12 guests, you’ll enjoy an intimate exploration of this captivating Scottish city through the lens of the time-traveling tale.
Read our full review: Outlander Walking Tour of Edinburghs Old Town Review
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Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Descend into the dimly lit and eerie passageways of Edinburgh’s underground vaults on this captivating Haunted Vaults Walking Tour. Explore these former slum dwellings dating back to the 1700s and learn about their dark history from a knowledgeable guide.
With 1,989 reviews and a 95% traveler recommendation, this tour provides the necessary context and background information to fully immerse you in the haunting atmosphere. Keep in mind, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for children under 12 or those with walking difficulties. Alcohol, drugs, and filming are also strictly forbidden.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey into Edinburgh’s unsettling past.
Read our full review: Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Review
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Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour
If you’re seeking a more personalized and in-depth exploration of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, the Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour is an excellent choice. You’ll have the undivided attention of a professional guide who can tailor the 3.5 or 7-hour itinerary to your interests. Gain insight into the Scottish capital’s rich history and heritage as you visit must-see sites.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though there are some hills and steps to navigate. With 251 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this private walking tour is highly recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Conveniently, you can be picked up and dropped off at your hotel.
Read our full review: Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour Review
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Edinburgh Whisky Walking Tour
For those seeking to enjoy Scotland’s famed whisky culture, the Edinburgh Whisky Walking Tour offers an unparalleled experience. Boasting a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this 3km tour through Edinburgh’s Old Town provides a minimum of 4 Scotch whisky samples across 4 iconic venues.
Attendees will also enjoy a light bite paired with one of the whisky samples. The tour departs from the Barony Bar, with a meeting time of 1:50 PM. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants must be over 18 and may be asked for valid photo identification, with a maximum of 10 travelers per tour.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Whisky Walking Tour Review
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Edinburgh Cheese Tasting Foodie Walking Tour
Edinburgh’s cheese-centric foodie walking tour takes you on a quirky, one-of-a-kind culinary adventure. Recommended by 90% of travelers, this tour visits top cheesemongers, offering generous cheese tastings paired with prosecco.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore local-loved businesses and neighborhoods off the tourist trail, learning about Edinburgh’s food scene. The tour lasts 1-2 hours, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Inclusions cover cheese tastings and gratuities.
While not recommended for the lactose intolerant, this tour is perfect for visiting cheese lovers seeking a unique way to discover Edinburgh’s culinary delights.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Cheese Tasting Foodie Walking Tour Review
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Edinburghs Amazing Harry Potter Walking Tour Kids Free
Discover Edinburgh’s enchanting connection to the Harry Potter universe on this captivating walking tour. Explore the city’s top Potter sites, led by a fun local guide. Learn where J.K. Rowling found inspiration and see the cafes where she wrote the original books.
Visit iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars graveyard. This 2-hour tour is ideal for kids and small groups of 15 or fewer. Best of all, children can join for free. Discover Edinburgh’s magical side and uncover the real-life history that shaped the wizarding world. With confirmation at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours, this tour is a must for any Harry Potter fan visiting the city.
Read our full review: Edinburghs Amazing Harry Potter Walking Tour Kids Free Review
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Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour With an Italian Tour Guide
If you’re seeking a deeper exploration of Edinburgh’s rich history and culture beyond the Harry Potter highlights, embark on this comprehensive 3-hour walking tour led by an expert Italian guide.
Discover the city’s Old Town, including iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Mary King’s Close. Learn about the rise of Presbyterianism and the city’s captivating past.
With a maximum of 25 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your guide. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. Conveniently starting and ending at central locations, this walking tour provides an immersive and informative experience suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
Read our full review: Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour With an Italian Tour Guide Review
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Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour Spanish Tour Guide
Exploring Edinburgh’s historic Old Town through the eyes of a local Spanish-speaking guide, this 3-hour walking tour offers an enriching cultural experience. Explore the UNESCO-listed district, spotting landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles’ Cathedral as you learn about figures from history and literature. The challenge of navigating the city’s distinct Scottish accent is alleviated by your guide’s fluency in Spanish, providing a non-native perspective on Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
With 98% of past travelers recommending this tour, you can expect an engaging, informative journey through the heart of the Scottish capital, all without the hassle of hotel pickup or drop-off.
Read our full review: Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour Spanish Tour Guide Review
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Edinburgh: Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault
Dive into the spookier side of Edinburgh’s Old Town on this gripping walking tour through the city’s haunted past. With a 4.9-rating from 410 reviews and recommended by 99% of travelers, this guided tour takes you to the most infamous spots, where you’ll uncover the secrets of witches, warlocks, and magical deeds.
Explore the Vaults at The Lost Close, hear chilling stories, and learn about the dark history of the witch trials. Suitable for most travelers, except those with mobility issues, this tour offers an immersive experience exploring Edinburgh’s iconic buildings and lesser-visited corners. Secure your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Accessibility Options for Walking Tours?
Many walking tours offer accessibility options to accommodate various needs. You can inquire about wheelchair accessibility, audio guides, and other accommodations to ensure you have an enjoyable and inclusive experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Walking Tours?
Most walking tours don’t have age restrictions, though some may not be suitable for young children. Check with the tour operator to ensure the tour aligns with your group’s abilities and interests.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tours?
Most walking tour companies in Edinburgh do not allow pets to join their tours. You’ll need to arrange for your pet’s care separately while you participate in the walking tour. Check with the specific tour operator for their pet policy.
Do the Walking Tours Have Audio Guides Available?
Many walking tours in Edinburgh offer audio guides, allowing you to explore at your own pace and hear detailed insights about the city’s history and landmarks. Check with the tour operator to see if this option is available.
What Is the Average Duration of the Walking Tours?
Most walking tours in Edinburgh typically range from 2 to 3 hours, allowing you to explore the city’s historic sights at a comfortable pace. The duration may vary depending on the specific tour and the number of stops included.
The Sum Up
Edinburgh offers an array of captivating walking tours that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re fascinated by the city’s history, Harry Potter lore, or supernatural tales, you’ll find a tour that piques your curiosity. Explore the underground vaults, stroll along the Royal Mile, and uncover the hidden gems of this enchanting Scottish capital. With these diverse options, you’re sure to discover the perfect walking tour to make your Edinburgh adventure truly memorable.