old town tour edinburgh

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Edinburgh Walking Tours

Featured Tours

Old Town + The Royal Mile Free Tour

Old town + the royal mile free tour highlights.

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

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

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

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

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

• Harry Potter-themed Tours
• Ghost Tours

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

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

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

Hope to see you on one of our tours!

TOUR CALENDAR

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

Searching Availability...

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

• Harry Potter Sights

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

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

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

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

OLD CITY AND ROYAL MILE TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

GPS-Enabled Audio Tour

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

Here’s a sample.

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

NEW CITY TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

City Explorers

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

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

FREE HARRY POTTER EDINBURGH TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FREE EDINBURGH GHOST TOUR

The history of this city is filled with legends and myths, but there’s also a darker side to Edinburgh’s past. 

Learn about some of the creepier and more disturbing aspects of Edinburgh’s past, including tales of witchery, body-snatching, assassinations, and even the plague.

You can expect to see or hear about some of the following subjects:

• Haunted Graveyards
• Burke and Hare Murders
• History of Public Executions
• The Real Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde
• History of Witch Trials

Consider one of the following pay-what-you-wish ghost tours if you want to discover the haunted history of this city.

Ghosts and ghouls, vampires and cannibals - Edinburgh's dark history with Brian Pendreigh

This 2 hour name your own price ghost tour is highly reviewed but does not run daily.

Like most evening ghost tours in Edinburgh, it covers the witches and other darker side aspects of Edinburgh history, not just ghost stories.

Book a free ghost tour here .

If you can't attend the free tour, check out our ticketed Ghost Tour which runs every night.

Free Tours with Tourist Passes

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

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

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

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

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

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

RELATED POSTS

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

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

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

[email protected]

Call us; +44 (0) 7590 026 077.

Discover Scotland's history on our award-winning Edinburgh tours  

~ Local Edinburgh guide            ~ Travellers' Choice 2023 winner        ~ 99% of reviews are 'Excellent'

Our recommended private tour of Edinburgh

Private New Town and Old Town tour 

Discover the history of Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage Site on this five-star rated three-hour private tour.  Start in the magnificent Georgian New Town, get some of the best views in the city (be sure to charge up your camera phone!), discover the history of the incredible Royal Mile, and let our award-winning Edinburgh tour guide take you into picturesque closes and wynds often missed by most visitors.

Top tip; the High Street and Lawnmarket sections of the Royal Mile can be very busy in July and August.  During those months, we highly recommend this tour because you'll spend more time in some of the quieter but equally fascinating parts of the historic Old Town. 

Prices start from £90

Your private tour starts at 10 am or 2 pm

5-star rated tour on Tripadvisor and Viator

"Local knowledge meant that on my tour I was shown the nooks and crannies, the hidden gems and the photo opportunities that I had expressed an interest in. 10 out of 10! What a great time, the perfect mix of fact and story telling and worth every penny and more!"  Cheryl C, Tripadvisor, October, 2022

Choose from our range of Edinburgh tours

Private Old Edinburgh tour

Get an intimate understanding of Edinburgh's world-famous  Old Town .   Learn about some of our most important buildings and explore evocative historic side streets, courtyards, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.  Your Edinburgh tour guide will use incredible archive images to help you imagine the capital as it was centuries ago!

Prices start from £85 for a private tour for one person

5-star rated tour on Tripadvisor

Viator Badge of Excellence winning tour

Private Royal Mile tour

Explore Scotland's most historic street on this  Royal Mile tour .  Visit picturesque little closes which most visitors miss and walk in the very places where so much of Scotland's history happened.  

Top tip: we recommend this tour during July and August.  You'll spend more time in the less crowded parts of the Royal Mile than on our Private Old Edinburgh tour.

Private Greyfriars Kirkyard tour

Our award-winning  Greyfriars Kirkyard tour  is perfect for anyone who wants to explore one of the world’s most famous burial grounds.  Learn about bodysnatchers, murderers, tortured lords, executed Covenanters and our famous wee dog.

Prices start from £70 for a private tour for one person

Bespoke tours for larger groups

Want a tailor-made Edinburgh tour?  We LOVE planning tours to suit larger groups.  We can offer tours to cover areas of interest and specific start/finish locations, and we can put together a tour for the time you have available. So please email us, and let's start planning your Edinburgh experience!  ​

Edinburgh tours for primary schools

Take your learning outdoors and into old Edinburgh!

We believe there's no better way to learn about old Edinburgh than to be IN the Old Town.   Our tours for Edinburgh schools have been expertly designed by our tour guide, a primary teacher with over 25 years of experience as a primary teacher.  Your learners will hear stories, see sights, and use archive maps, images, and documents.  We currently offer activity tours on Castles, Old Edinburgh, Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites, and also a tour which focuses on life for Edinburgh's poorest Victorians.  

£3 per pupil (some tours add an additional 50p payment to City of Edinburgh Council for the use of Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Led by a qualified teacher with PVG certification.

"The tour lasted for two hours but the time flew by with Mr Howie telling tales of old and providing the children (32 of them!) with a selection of primary and secondary sources so they could be the history detectives and investigate dark goings on with torture, body snatchers, ‘rubbish’ walls, explosions, Royal visits and quite a bit about poo too. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough for any educator studying the local history of this city with children at first or second level (ks1 and ks2). Reliable and unreliable sources? Check! Primary and secondary sources? Check! Compare and contrast society then and now? Check! Interpret historical evidence? Check! The tour that really does tick all the boxes. And it’s fun too!"  MsFMorse, Tripadvisor, March, 2022

What our guests are saying

Excellent attention to detail and helpful access.

I am a wheelchair user and my travel agent booked this tour because she knew I was a history buff. My experience with Robert I think started almost immediately. He started communicating with me via Viator and asking what I needed in terms of access and what interested me so that he could tailor the tour to my needs. We met at the hotel and he had a rough route planned out. He tweaked this slightly according to our needs. The end result was an informative and fun tour which we very much enjoyed. I don’t feel as if I missed out on anything and was very happy with our tour. 

Tripadvisor review by Kirsty T  - August, 2023

BEST Tour Ever!

Our private tour of Old Edinburgh with Robert Howie was AMAZING! Best tour each of us has ever been on. Robert was engaging, knowledgeable, funny, and tailored the tour to our interests. We were hanging on his every word and didn't want the tour to end. So glad we saw Old Edinburgh this way. Thank you Robert!

Tripadvisor review by Ron H - September, 2023

Please consider leaving us a review

Every review you leave makes a huge difference to our company.  we're a very small company and the edinburgh tours market is incredibly competitive.  we really do appreciate your kindness in leaving a review on either tripadvisor or google.    please, a small plea from us; if you're thinking of booking a tour with us, please book directly on this website .  a direct booking with us (rather than on tripadvisor, allows us to use greater flexibility with any requests you may have and you have all the security and benefits you'd have if you booked through a third-party..

News from us

As seen on national TV!

• The Unofficial Edinburgh Guide

• Stockbridge & Dean Village
• South Queensferry
• Dunbar, East Lothian
• Food & Drink
• Edinburgh Activities
• Where to Stay

50+ Things To Do In Edinburgh’s Old Town

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

A striking castle, interesting architecture, spooky tours, unique Scottish food and a variety of whisky! There is no shortage of things to in Edinburgh Old Town. The first stop on many first-timers’ itineraries, our guide details the most popular Edinburgh attractions, local favourites and everything in between on the Royal Mile and beyond.

We will start at Market Street and work our way up to the High Street, on the Royal Mile.

Then we’ll take you to Edinburgh Castle, down to the Grassmarket and back to The Royal Mile. Our tour of what to do in the Old Town will end at Holyrood Park.

If you need more information on getting your bearings, check out our guide to the Old Town here .

While the Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes places all over the city in August, performances dominate Old Town locations.

The Royal Mile is the heart of the three-week arts festival and is always packed with free shows, live music and promotions.

You don’t have to visit in August though! The Old Town is Edinburgh tourism’s epicentre, so let’s take a look at what to do there.

In this article, we’ve focused more on landmarks and attractions. We also have guides on where to eat and what pubs to visit , plus where to stay in the Old Town .

Get ready to look up, climb down and get comfortably lost in Edinburgh’s closes (pathways)!

Things to do in Old Town Edinburgh

• Enjoy art or a coffee at Fruitmarket Gallery
• Treat yourself to Mimi’s cake or smashed avo toast – here’s our brunch guide .
• Splurge on small plates and cocktails at Nor’ Loft, Market Street Hotel’s terrace
• Learn about Scotland’s gory past at the Edinburgh Dungeons
• Take on the Fleshmarket Close steps
• Stop for a breather at The Jinglin’ Geordie
• Admire the 104 marble stairs of The Scotsman Steps
• Eat burgers at the Scottish chain, Bread Meats Bread
• Shop, dine and drink coffee or cocktails on Cockburn Street, we love Coffee Press and The Wall.

→ Read next | Where to eat in the Old Town

• Snap the slogan on top of The Inn On The Mile bar
• Turn right, walk up The Royal Mile to spit on the Heart of Midlothian
• Visit St Giles Cathedral
• Go underground at the Real Mary’s Kings Close
• Rub Hume’s toe for luck
• Find the remains of the gallows, look down!
• Spot the two faces of Deacon Brodie

You may also like | The best walking tours in Edinburgh

• Head down to the Edinburgh Vaults on an Edinburgh underground tour . Read our vaults review here .
• Get lost in the myriad steps and closes – an Ev Ed fave
• Sip a cocktail at The Devil’s Advocate
• Learn about Scotland’s authors at The Writer’s Museum (free)
• Check out the New Town views from Ramsay Gardens/Mount Place

Dark tourism fans, here’s our guide to ghost tours in Edinburgh !

• Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle independently or skip the line with this walking tour
• Pay your respects at The Witches Well
• See the most wonderful show, the Military Tattoo (August)
• Learn about our national drink at Edinburgh Scotch Whisky Experience or check out these tours
• Get silly at Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura

• Walk down George IV Bridge
• Turn right to explore the pastel buildings of Victoria Street
• Buy Harry Potter memorabilia
• Check out the Harry Potter museum, Museum Context
• Vintage shop in the Grassmarket
• Get that Edinburgh Castle IG pic at The Vennel
• Visit the Grassmarket Farmers Market every Saturday
• Look up at the ceiling of the Black Bull
• Dine on pizza in the shadow of the castle at Cold Town House

• Enjoy brunch or a cocktail at Eve
• Listen to live music at Stramash in the Cowgate or The Pipers Rest on Hunter Square
• Dance to electronic music at Cabaret Voltaire, a club in a cave
• Try to escape the horrors of the Department Of Magic, Potter Escape Rooms
• Find the Potter inspo at Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Visit the National Museum of Scotland. Find out more in our museums’ guide
• Check out the views from the top floor
• Snap The Elephant House where Harry Potter was written

→ Potter fans! Read our Harry Potter locations guide

• Head back to the Royal Mile to buy something Scottish at The Tron Kirk
• Visit the dolls at the Children’s Museum
• Buy authentic wool products at the Edinburgh Woollen Mill
• See a show at the Storytelling Centre
• Learn about the Royal Mile’s history at John Knox House
• Join a Highlands tour to see Scotland’s majestic landscape over 1-4 days

• Have a pint at the famous World’s End pub
• Take a photo of the Tolbooth clock
• Learn about Scottish social issues at The People’s Museum
• Visit the Museum of Edinburgh for social history
• See views of Calton Hill from Canongate Kirk
• Check out the hidden gem, Dunbars Close Garden

→ Read all about Edinburgh lovely gardens here

• See democracy in action at the Scottish Parliament
• Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and its Abbey ruins
• Hike to St Anthony’s Chapel ruins
• See Fife and beyond from Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags

→ Love the dark side? Learn about Edinburgh’s ghosts and haunted spots

Our Old Town Edinburgh Guides

• The ultimate guide to Edinburgh’s Old Town
• Where to stay in the Old Town
• Old Town hotels for every budget
• Best Old Town Airbnbs incl. Harry Potter
• Old Town Edinburgh restaurants for every budget
• Our favourite Old Town pubs and bars
• Walking tours including history and Harry Potter
• Spooky ghost tours featuring Edinburgh’s Underground
• Every Harry Potter location fans can’t miss

Any questions or comments? Let us know below .

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

Owner of Everything Edinburgh, the friendly resource for visitors and locals. Gemma adores Edinburgh's cafes, pub crawls, live gigs, and city tours. She still mourns the death of Espionage nightclub.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Earn onekeycash when you sign in and book an activity.

Check availability

• About this activity

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation

This walking tour is designed to give you a broad understanding of Edinburgh, it's history and culture.  The tour runs for around two hours taking in many of the sites of the Old Town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We strive to be informative yet entertaining on this tour, delivering an overview of Edinburgh with the passion it deserves.

Activity location

• EH1, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, United Kingdom

Meeting/Redemption Point

• EH1, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
• Tue, Apr 30 -
• Wed, May 1 $18
• Thu, May 2 $18
• Fri, May 3 $18
• Sat, May 4 $18
• Sun, May 5 $18
• Mon, May 6 $18
• Tue, May 7 $18
• Wed, May 8 $18
• Thu, May 9 $18
• Fri, May 10 $18
• Sat, May 11 $18
• Sun, May 12 $18
• Mon, May 13 $18
• Tue, May 14 $18

English Old Town Tour

• Activity duration is 2 hours 2h 2h

Expert Guide

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Professional guide
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuity

Know before you book

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• These tours run all the year round so please wear clothing that is appropriate for the Scottish climate and come in footwear that you are comfortable in for a two hour walking tour on the historic streets of Edinburgh.
• Please Note - Children, aged 15 and under, will not be able to join the tour unless accompanied by a responsible adult

Activity itinerary

Edinburgh old town, best deals on things to do, top experiences in edinburgh.

Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh in the Old Town

Explore the royal mile.

The Old Town of Edinburgh will undoubtedly be your first point of call when visiting the city . This is the oldest area of Edinburgh, where the city was first built, and remains the heart of Edinburgh - it was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995 .

You will notice that the layout of Edinburgh’s Old Town is quite unusual , because of the land that it is built on. The city lies on what’s known as a ‘crag and tail’ formation, with an extinct volcano at the top (the ‘crag’), on which you will find Edinburgh Castle , and a glacial ridge running downhill (the ‘tail’), which is now the Royal Mile .

All around, you will see the tall buildings and narrow alleyways, which are the remnants of vast overcrowding in the past. You should head to Calton Hill for one of the best views of the eclectic Old Town , where you can capture some of the most iconic photos of Edinburgh’s skyline.

The Royal Mile has been the main street of Edinburgh for centuries , and definitely shouldn’t be missed. Its name comes from the two royal residences located at either end of the street, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace , and its length, which is approximately one Scottish mile.

You won’t run out of things to see and do, as here you can find numerous cafes, restaurants, and gift shops, and you can join walking tours of the city : the Edinburgh Free Tour , focussing on the traditional history and major landmarks, and the Free Ghost Tour , which explores the darker, more gruesome parts of the city’s history.

The fans of Harry Potter will also have the Free Harry Potter Tour and the Free Tour exploring the New Town also starts from here.

Important landmarks & attractions

You can see many of the city’s most important landmarks in the Old Town , such as St Giles’ Cathedral , a notable Church of Scotland building, with stunning architecture to marvel at, and a fascinating history to uncover.

You could also check out some of the o ther notable churches throughout the Old Town , including Canongate Kirk , Tron Kirk , Highland Tolbooth Kirk (now The Hub), and Greyfriars Kirk .

Other interesting sights you might like to visit include the Scottish Parliament building, and the Mercat Cross . Or, you can spend some time exploring the many closes (alleys) leading off the Royal Mile , many of which hide some fascinating parts of the Old Town .

You can also find many of Edinburgh’s best museums in the historic Old Town , where you can learn about an array of fascinating topics to suit all interests, including the Museum of Edinburgh , John Knox’s House, the Writers Museum , and the largest and most popular, the National Museum of Scotland , located on Chambers Street and free to visit.

Exciting nightlife

You should definitely explore the Old Town at night too , as it is one of the best areas to go out in the city, with dozens of bars and clubs to choose from, many of which have live music at night too .

You might also like to join The Edinburgh Pub Crawl , starting every night at 8pm in The Tron, one of the best pubs in the Old Town, located at 9 Hunter Square.

During your visit to Edinburgh you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to deeply explore the Old Town and get surprised by the singularity of its construction, interesting history and special atmosphere where locals and visitors meet and everyone can feel comfortable.

The Old Town is the heart of Edinburgh, surrounded by Princes Street Gardens, The Meadows, Castle Rock and Holyrood Park.

Get directions to Edinburgh's Old Town.

Related Activities

Related Posts

• Times & Prices
• Our Gallery

Old Town Walking Tour

A fun and informative Historical Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town – 1 Hour

Walk the streets that inspired countless writers, like that of crime novelist Ian Rankin and Diane Gabaldon creator of Outlander. Meet the most famous dog in the world. Tread the cobbles to the sound of bagpipe music as you enjoy world-class scenery of Scottland’s capital city.

Magical Edinburgh Myths and History – 1 Hour

Enjoy a totally unique Edinburgh Old Town Tour. We will show you the places that are rumored to have inspired Harry Potter and you will discover where a REAL wizard once lived while walking one the prettiest streets of Scottland. There will also be a talk about witches, ghosts and magic and you will hear about local legends that continues to inspire visitors and writers alike to this day.

Rebel, Rebel!

Outlander’s Edinburgh – 1 Hour Hear the stories about Jacobean Scotland. Let our guide in full historical costume take you back in time along the Royal Mile to visit the locations that featured in the TV series Outlander and tell you about the romantic and troubled history that forged modern Scottland. This tour is our best seller and therefore an absolute must for anyone who has an interest in history and likes a good story.

Crime and Punishment A TOUR FOR THE BRAVE …

Dark tourism – 1 Hour

On this tour you will learn about the darker side of the law and the barbaric forms of punishment meted out to those foolish or desperate enough to commit a crime. Observe the places of public flogging and torture and walk the ruins of the most hated building in Scottish History. You will also hear about famous and notorious criminals and crimes that shook the nation. Madness, Murder and Mayhem awaits, not for the fainthearted! Disclaimer: Due to the graphic content of this tour children may only attend at the discretion of their parents

Edinburgh’s Old Town Highlights

The Origin of Scottish Design

• Start Royal Academy. Finish Scottish Parliament. Moderate activity level. Stairs and uneven surfaces.
• Purchase more than one and receive a discount

Have a listen

A self-guided walking audio tour in the atmospheric Old Town of Edinburgh.

You will explore the fascinating historical buildings that give the area its character, and admire award-winning contemporary architecture like the famous Scottish Parliament.

On this tour, you’ll meander through narrow closes, beneath stepped gables and turrets, pausing at breathtaking viewpoints. The narrator will also show you the easy-to-miss details on the buildings, and share old maps and drawings as you walk Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile.

“Whether you are new to Edinburgh, or already know the city, you will get a huge amount from it.”

• The oldest tenement on the Royal Mile
• An unusual, lesser-known side of the National Museum of Scotland
• The difficult-to-find Riddle’s Court, once a merchant's house
• The sweeping views from Victoria Terrace
• The (in)famous Scottish Parliament

How audio tours work

When you purchase directly from us, you donate £1 from every tour to the society for protection of ancient buildings..

• After you paid for the tour, you will receive an activation code by email, along with detailed instructions that follow below.
• To go out and do the tour, all you need is a free audio tour VoiceMap app for iPhones and Android devices. Install it on your smartphone via Apple AppStore or Google Play's store.

• Find your tour in the app by entering your code that you received in the email from us. 
• Download the tour to your fully charged smartphone. The audio will be available offline along with an offline map. 
• Fetch some earphones and explore with our guide in your ear.
• The tours are location aware, so you will hear directions and stories as you move.
• Pause anytime in wonderful cafes and shops, and take as many pictures as you please!

More about the audio tour in Edinburgh Old Town

Along the way, we will answer questions like:

• Is the Old Town really that old?
• Which medieval Scottish castles inspired Victorian buildings in Edinburgh?
• Why did construction of the Scottish Parliament go ten times over budget?

The Old Town is the most popular attraction in Edinburgh. It contains the oldest buildings in the city and is steeped in fascinating and complex history. Hence, one can truly feel the medieval spirit of the burgh on the walking tour amongst the countless turrets and gables.

Royal Burgh of Edinburgh

Established as a royal burgh in 1125, Edinburgh has developed from a fortress into a market town of half-timbered houses. However, these were later superseded by less fire prone stone buildings, some of which have survived since 15th century.

The tall tenements grew in height and density as a result of enclosing the city with defensive walls. 

The hidden castles

This Edinburgh Old Town tour will start on the Mound, with a jaw-dropping sight of the dense Old town tenements perched on the slopes of the Royal Mile. We will walk through the elegant serpentine Cockburn street, under the multitude of crow stepped gables and turrets. Here, we will learn how the political alliances influenced Scottish Baronial architecture.  

Royal Mile and its closes

While on the Royal Mile, your audio guide will narrate the story of the city’s landmark and the oldest building on the street – St Giles Cathedral. Around the corner, you will discover the national museum inspired by Corbusian geometries and Iron Age Pictish structures. 

Canongate and Scottish Parliament

Next, to seek out the oldest remaining tenements and houses, you will explore a sequence of atmospheric alleys, courtyards and terraces.

The walk will take you down the Royal Mile into Canongate, previously a separate burgh built up with nobles’ mansions, where we will admire some elegant contemporary student housing. 

At last, you will savour the story of the controversial postmodern Arts & Crafts building – the Scottish Parliament.

While on the Royal Mile, your audio guide will narrate the story of the city’s landmark and the oldest building on the street – St Giles Cathedral. Around the corner, you will discover the national museum inspired by Corbusian geometries and Iron Age Pictish structures. 

The walk will take you down the Royal Mile into Canongate, previously a separate burgh built up with nobles’ mansions, where we will admire some elegant contemporary student housing. 

Frequently asked questions

Yes, we offer private walking tours guided by a local architect, for groups of up to 30 people.  

Absolutely, if you are curious about cities and culture, an architecture tour will reveal lots of insights about Edinburgh. 

Yes, except Dean Village where the audio tour passes through a cemetery. 

After you paid for the tour, you will receive an activation code by email, along with detailed instructions.

To go out and do the tour, all you need is a free audio tour VoiceMap app for iPhones and Android devices. Install it on your smartphone via Apple AppStore or Google Play’s store.

Once purchased, Edinburgh audio tours are not refundable. However, your ticket will be valid indefinitely, so you can take the tour at any date, gift it to someone else, or enjoy a virtual tour.

The audio tour is available in English. Guided tours for private groups are also available in French.

On most audio tours of Edinburgh, we climb from 20 to a 100 steps. Our flattest walking audio tour is in the New Town.

Yes, but for the optimal experience and understanding of the content we recommend following a preset order. 

Privacy Overview

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

Victoria Street

Edinburgh Old Town Tour

The Edinburgh Old Town Tour is essential to fully experience the medieval town of Edinburgh, a place like no other. Walk along am expert guide to discover the most important history and event that occurred here.

In the guided walk around Edinburgh’s Old Town, you will start the tour at the High Street, in the famous Royal Mile. You will join our expert guide to see and discover the history of the city centre while you visit the best places around the Old Town.

Get to know the famous inhabitants Edinburgh had and how the likes of Adam Smith or David Hume, among others, shaped the city. Every corner of the Old Town has its own unique history, even the pubs!

From places that inspired Harry Potter to the square where public executions used to happen, you will be able to see it all in Edinburgh.

You will also visit one of the most beautiful closes in the Royal Mile (closes are little alleys that populate Edinburgh’s Old Town). There are dozens of them, and the guide will take you to a few during the tour, but feel free to ask for recommendations after the walk!

Along with the history of Scotland and Edinburgh, you will get to know other cultural and good to know information, such as where to eat or drink.

From £14 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 () 7851880082
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

Tour prices.

From £14 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour gallery

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour company information

Blubale is a local company that offers tours in Edinburgh and Glasgow for both English and Spanish speakers. The most popular guided walks are: Edinburgh tours: - Edinburgh Old Town Tour - Edinburgh Ghost Tour - Edinburgh Castle Tour Glasgow tours: - Free Glasgow Tour - Glasgow Pub Crawl Private tours are also available on demand in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling and other locations.

Social Channels

Visit Blubale

Opening times

Blubale is open everyday. Please, check each tour for finding times.

Other tours from this company

Free Edinburgh Old Town Tour in Spanish

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre

The Edinburgh Old Town Tour is essential to fully experience the medieval town o...

Price from:

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

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

Spooky, light hearted, family friendly fun!

Quick Details

• Tags Ages: Ages 5+
• Hour Glass Duration: 1 Hour
• Clock Schedule: Daily @ 13:15; 15:15; 17:15

Embark Upon a Ghost Tour Through Edinburgh Old Town & Underground

The Early Afternoon Ghost Tours are walking tours led by a professional local guide in full period costume. You will walk around some of Edinburgh’s most historically fascinating Old Town Closes, where guides will overdose you with historical facts and stories of Edinburgh’s dark past, with the odd bad joke thrown in from time to time.

The Old Town & Underground Ghost Tour will then take you into Edinburgh’s underground vaults, located underneath the historic South Bridge, just off Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. These vaults are known to be some of the most haunted in the world and many a ghost has been spotted lurking around both by visitors and guides alike.

Ghosts, torture, death and horror! Is there any better way to start your evening?

Edinburgh guided tours FAQ

• Chevron down Meeting Point & Location

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour starts from our Old Police Box, 124A High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QS.

Our tickets box is just outside the Tron Kirk and directly infront of Starbucks.

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour ends from our Old Police Box, 124A High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QS.

• Chevron down Where can I book this tour?

This tour can be booked online using the widget above, through our ticket office which you can call on 0131 220 6868, or at the office itself at Old Police Box, 9 Hunter Square, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1QS. It is recommended that you book because our tours can very easily sell out especially during the summer months.

• Chevron down Is there a lot of walking on this Tour?

With the exception of the Alternative Tour and the Ultimate Old Town Historical Tour, there is only a small amount of walking on our tours. However please wear comfortable shoes otherwise you will find the Old Town’s cobblestones rather unpleasant!

• Chevron down Can children come on this tour?

Children over five years old are welcome on all our tours, except for the Pub Crawl, the Extreme Paranormal Tour and the Ladies of Pleasure Tour, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

• Chevron down Is the underground wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately our underground is only accessible via a flight of stairs. For more information about the underground visit our accessibility section.

• Chevron down Will this tour run in bad weather?

Our tours run in rain, hail, sleet or snow, so long as we have people booked on, willing to do the tour it will run. Please wrap warm though if the weather is not on our side.

Related Activities

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

Tour of Terror @ 20:45

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

• Hour Glass 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

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

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

• Tags Ages 18+

Extreme Paranormal Ghost Tour Edinburgh @ 21:15

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

Edinburgh: Old Towns Highlights Walking Tour

As visitors wind their way through Edinburgh’s Old Town, they may find themselves feeling like time travelers stepping into a living storybook. The tales woven into the fabric of this ancient city are as captivating as they are plentiful, offering a glimpse into a world long past, yet somehow still vividly present.

Each cobblestone beneath your feet whispers secrets of centuries gone by, hinting at the grandeur and grit that define Edinburgh’s historic heart. But what awaits at the end of this journey through the past?

Discover the allure of Edinburgh’s Old Town highlights, where every corner turned reveals a new chapter in the city’s storied past.

• Immerse in Edinburgh’s cultural and culinary delights.
• Explore ghost stories in the Old Town’s alleys.
• Visit iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles’ Cathedral.
• Experience a blend of history, architecture , and supernatural allure.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• From Edinburgh: 6-Day Shetland & Nothernmost Explorer
• Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
• Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & the Kingdom of Northumbria From Edinburgh
• The Edinburgh Dungeon Entrance Ticket

Tour Overview

Set out on a captivating journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town with a guided walking tour that showcases the rich history and charm of this historic area.

As you traverse the cobblestone streets, learn about the local cuisine , with opportunities to sample traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps , and tatties.

The tour also delves into the eerie world of ghost stories that shroud the narrow alleyways and ancient buildings of the Old Town. Hear chilling tales of restless spirits and haunted locations that have captivated both locals and visitors for centuries.

This unique blend of culinary delights and spine-tingling narratives promises an unforgettable experience, offering a taste of Edinburgh’s cultural tapestry and supernatural allure.

Meeting Point Details

As the exploration of Edinburgh’s Old Town continues, visitors will find the meeting point conveniently located near the heart of the historic district, offering easy access for participants eager to begin their walking tour experience. The meeting point is strategically situated close to major local attractions, making it a perfect starting point for discovering the charm of Old Town. Here are some key meeting logistics to keep in mind:

Participants can gather at the designated spot and start their journey exploring the historical wonders of Edinburgh’s Old Town right from the heart of the action.

Historical Landmarks Covered

Visitors on the Old Town walking tour will uncover a tapestry of historical landmarks steeped in Edinburgh’s rich past, each revealing a unique story waiting to be discovered.

The tour includes iconic sites like the Edinburgh Castle, where architectural significance merges with centuries of cultural heritage.

Stroll down the Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare lined with medieval buildings that epitomize the city’s architectural evolution.

Explore St. Giles’ Cathedral, a masterpiece of intricate design and cultural importance, showcasing stunning stained glass windows and ornate stonework.

Dive into the past at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, offering insights into both architectural grandeur and cultural traditions.

Edinburgh’s historical landmarks aren’t just remnants of the past but living testaments to the city’s rich heritage.

Insider Tips and Recommendations

For a truly immersive experience during your Old Town walking tour in Edinburgh, consider seeking out local recommendations and insider tips to enhance your exploration of this historic area. Here are some insider tips and recommendations to make the most of your visit:

Local Cuisine : Don’t miss out on trying traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps , and tatties at local restaurants or street food vendors.

Hidden Gems : Explore off-the-beaten-path alleyways and courtyards to discover hidden gems such as quaint cafes, unique boutiques , and charming artisan shops.

Local Guides : Consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth knowledge and stories about the history and culture of the Old Town.

Timing : Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and experience a more serene atmosphere.

Tour Duration and Difficulty

When planning your Old Town walking tour in Edinburgh, consider the tour duration and level of difficulty to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience exploring this historic area. The tour length of most Old Town walking tours in Edinburgh ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, providing ample time to visit key landmarks and soak in the rich history.

Accessibility options are available to cater to different mobility needs, ensuring that everyone can participate. While the terrain may present some challenges with cobblestone streets and uneven pathways, most tours are manageable for participants with average fitness levels.

Group size restrictions are typically in place to maintain a more intimate experience and allow for better interaction with the guide.

Booking and Pricing Information

Considering the captivating journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town, potential participants can easily secure their spot and learn about the pricing details for this enriching experience. When booking this walking tour, individuals will find the following essential information:

Pricing Options : Starting from $4.41

Refund Policy :

• Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
• No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before start time
• Changes not accepted less than 24 hours before start time

Booking Process :

• Activity ends at meeting point
• Cut-off times based on local time
• Detailed information on cancellations available

Additional Details : Learn more about cancellations, terms , and conditions , as well as how Viator works to ensure a seamless experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands in Spanish.
• Underground City of the Dead Tour
• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
• St Andrews & Cliffs and Dunnottar Castle in Spanish.
• Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour Spanish Tour Guide
• Loch Ness Glen Coe and the Highlands Italian Tour Guide

Common questions

Are restrooms available along the walking tour route.

Restroom accessibility is important during tours. Hydration options should also be considered. Knowing where restrooms are located along the route and having access to water can enhance the overall experience for participants.

Is Food and Drink Allowed During the Tour?

Food and drink are generally not allowed during guided tours to maintain group cohesion and respect for the local culture. However, participants can inquire about food preferences or local cuisine suggestions from the tour guide beforehand.

Are Pets Allowed on the Walking Tour?

Pet friendly accommodations are available in the area, and local pet stores offer supplies for furry companions. The walking tour welcomes pets with certain restrictions, ensuring a comfortable experience for all participants.

Is There a Dress Code for the Walking Tour?

Dress etiquette for the walking tour suggests comfortable shoes for exploring the Old Town’s highlights. Consider weather conditions and layer clothing for Scotland’s unpredictable climate. Stay prepared with a waterproof jacket and an umbrella.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants on the Walking Tour?

For participant safety, the walking tour enforces a minimum age requirement. This measure ensures a positive participant experience, addresses accessibility concerns , and maintains appropriate group dynamics. These guidelines are essential to enhancing the overall tour experience.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• The Walter Case” Edinburgh : Outdoor Escape Game
• St Andrews and Falkland Palace Tour From Edinburgh
• Edinburgh: Capture the Most Photogenic Spots With a Local
• Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour From Edinburgh
• Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour
• From Glasgow: Glenfinnan, Fort William & Glencoe Day Tour
• Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (Family Friendly)
• Edinburgh: 2-Hour Nighttime Ghost Tour
• Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery
• Edinburgh Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt! Team Race Routes!
• Edinburgh: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour

Experience the magic of Edinburgh’s Old Town like never before on this captivating walking tour. From the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, you’ll be transported back in time to uncover the city’s rich history and charm.

With knowledgeable guides and affordable pricing starting at $4.41, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the heart of Edinburgh.

Embark on this journey through the past and discover the hidden gems that make this historic city so enchanting.

Similar Posts

Sydneys Razor Gang True Crime Tour

Step back in time and peel back the layers of Sydney’s past on the ‘Sydney’s Razor Gang True Crime Tour.’…

GdańSk: Scenic Sunset Cruise With Glass of Mulled Wine

Enjoy the serene beauty of Gdańsk with a scenic sunset cruise complemented by a glass of mulled wine. As the…

Bali Private Car Hire With Chauffeur

Set out on a journey through Bali with a private car hire and chauffeur like a captain navigating uncharted waters….

Paragliding Experience Near Lisbon

Imagine soaring above the rolling hills and sparkling coastline near Lisbon, feeling the rush of wind as you glide through…

Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace Guided Tour

With over 100,000 visitors annually, the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace guided tour offers a unique blend of history and…

Paris Highlights and Pastries Tastings Tour

Set out on an enchanting exploration of Paris’s picturesque panoramas and delectable pastries with the Paris Highlights and Pastries Tastings…