Scotland’s second-most-popular tourist attraction as you learn about the bloody history including stories of the kings and queens who lived in this castle.
There is evidence of a fort here for almost 3000 years, and it has been a royal castle since at least King David I’s reign in the 12th century. The Scottish monarchs continued to use it until 1633, and even saw the birth of King James VI within its walls.
Your tour will begin on the Royal Mile, then take you to the castle, where you will hear your guide talking about the origins of the castle and its sieges.
Once inside the castle walls, the guide will take you through the different parts of the fortress and tell you its fascinating history. Inside the complex, you will find three museums, two prisons, a canine cemetery, the Chapel of Saint Margaret, the National Monument to the fallen of Scotland, the Great Hall, and a Royal Palace.(ENTIRE TOUR WILL REMAIN OUTDOORS; buildings are not accessible during the tour.)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
User reviews, 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2973 reviews
Join us on an unforgettable journey through millennia as we explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle on a walking tour that will bring Scotland's rich history to life!
As you explore, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of battles won and lost, royalty and rebels, and the colourful characters who have called the castle home over the centuries. You'll be greeted with breath-taking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside, providing a unique perspective on this beautiful city.
Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique and educational experience, a tour of Edinburgh Castle is a must-do activity in Scotland's capital. Come and discover the rich cultural heritage of this iconic landmark, and immerse yourself in the history of one of the most fascinating places in all of Europe!
*IN ENGLISH ONLY. Tickets to Edinburgh Castle are included, and the tour takes place inside. Due to guidelines imposed by HES, guides are not allowed inside the covered areas.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
User reviews, 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1634 reviews
This hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Edinburgh will allow you to explore the city at your own pace. With convenient transportation on board a double-decker bus, you can discover the city's most popular sights including the Grassmarket in the Old Town, the National Museum of Scotland, John Knox House and Holyrood Palace.
The ticket will be valid for 24 hours, during which you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you want along the way. Children's commentary and audio guides in nine different languages will be available as well.
Duration: 24 hours
User reviews, 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1165 reviews
Embark on an unforgettable 1-day adventure through Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands. This jam-packed tour offers stunning scenery, unspoiled landscapes, and a chance to escape the bustle of modern life.
This tour comes in three different versions. Book the Boat Cruise option if you’d like to stop in Fort Augustus and join a boat cruise on Loch Ness, the Whisky Distillery option if you’d like to do the distillery tour, or the Boat Cruise and Castle option if you’d prefer a shorter cruise and to visit Urquhart Castle.
Immerse yourself in Scottish culture through captivating myths, legends, and historical landmarks. Visit the mysterious Loch Ness, marvel at the dramatic beauty of Glencoe, and (season permitting) meet the iconic Highland Cows.
Every winding road reveals new photo opportunities, stories, and memories.
Duration: 12 hours 30 minutes
User reviews, 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2593 reviews
Edinburgh is said to be one of the most haunted cities in Europe – this 75-minute bus tour will give you the chance to see some of the city's most haunted spots, landmark monuments and creepy corners.
During the atmospheric ride, you'll hear terrifying tales of grave robbers, plague victims, murders and executions. You'll also delve into the story of Burke and Hare, two serial killers who were active in the city between 1827 and 1828, and the hundreds of women who were accused of witchcraft.
The Scottish capital is famous for its ghosts and ghouls, and this guided walking tour will give you an introduction to its dark past, chronicling over 400 years.
Over the course of 75 minutes, you'll discover the secret alleyways off the Royal Mile and will hear insights into some of the city's scary secrets. You'll then explore Greyfriars Kirkyard – rumored to be the world's most haunted graveyard – before you go deep underground and wander through the Edinburgh Vaults, a series of chambers used by the serial killers Burke and Hare to store the bodies they used for medical experiments, as well as a whole host of other illicit material.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
User reviews, 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2035 reviews
Journey along Edinburgh's Royal Mile hearing some of Edinburgh's darker history before visiting the infamous hidden and supposedly haunted vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults by candlelight, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike, said by some to now be occupied by a few of the spirits of these inhabitants long since dead.
Each vault has stories of crime, disease, death and lots more... with which your guide shall enlighten you in all the gory details! You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by a Wiccan coven and you will enter their former temple. Join us to learn why it is no longer safe for them to practice their craft in that vault.
DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle?
User reviews, 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1897 reviews
With this 24-hour bus tour, you will explore Edinburgh and its most famous landmarks at your own pace. This ticket will offer you access to 14 stops around the city center, including Grassmarket, Palace of Holyrood, Waverley Bridge and Old Town. Along the route, you will have the opportunity to hop on and off the bus as many times as you wish. An open-top bus will offer you unique panoramic views of the main tourist attractions and the natural areas surrounding the city. Besides, you will have access to an audio guide with informative commentary to learn about the history of the Scottish capital.
Embark on a journey through the heart of Edinburgh with our captivating Old Town's Highlights Walking Tour.
Your adventure begins on the iconic Royal Mile at 130 High Street, where the past meets the present. Traverse the enchanting cobblestone streets as we guide you to Edinburgh's crown jewels, including the renowned Greyfriars Kirkyard, home to the legendary Greyfriars Bobby, and the vibrant Grassmarket.
This isn't just a tour; it's a narrative woven with threads of madness and genius. Delve into Edinburgh's colorful past as our expert guides regale you with stories that defy belief. Immerse yourself in the literary legacy of Scottish greats at the Scottish Writers' Museum and, don't miss the heartwarming story of a loyal local dog who etched its name into the annals of Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Your Old Town's Highlights Walking Tour promises not just sightseeing, but a journey through the soul of Edinburgh. Are you ready to walk the path of legends?
Mythical beasts, tall tales and dramatic scenery: explore the beauty of Scotland in a day on this one day coach tour.
Leaving from Edinburgh, we head northwest passing famous landmarks such as Linlithgow Palace: birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, the mystical Kelpies, and the dramatically perched Stirling Castle.
Continuing north we arrive in Glencoe for some photos of the dramatic ridges called the Three Sisters.
We stop in the Fort William area for lunch before heading into the natural beauty of the Great Glen as we pass Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
Heading further into the highlands we arrive in the small picturesque village of Fort Augustus - you can choose to take part in an optional boat cruise here.
The road home will be time to relax and take in the Highland scenery. Final refreshment stop is at the historic town of Pitlochry before continuing the journey home over the Firth of Forth alongside UNESCO Forth Rail Bridge enroute back into Edinburgh.
Take in the stunning Highland locations made famous by the Harry Potter and James Bond film series.
Passing famous landmarks such as Linlithgow Palace, the mythical Kelpies, and the dramatically perched Stirling Castle on route to the Highlands.
Head north through Glencoe while your Driver / Guide points out the film locations for the James Bond and Harry Potter franchise
Stop in the Fort William area for lunch before a short drive to the Glenfinnan viaduct which was made famous from its scenes in the Harry Potter movies from the filming of the Hogwarts Express. Take a short walk to the viewpoint, where you will have unparalleled views over Loch Shiel and across to the viaduct, in time for the Jacobite Steam train crossing (seasonal: 07.04.25 to 24.10.25).
The road home will be time to relax and take in the Highland scenery. Final stop is at the historic town of Pitlochry before continuing home over the Firth of Forth alongside UNESCO Forth Rail Bridge enroute back into Edinburgh.
On this tour, you'll explore the impressive glass and marble vault housing one of the world’s largest Scotch whiskey collections at The Scotch Whiskey Experience. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn how Scotland’s geography and weather shape the unique aromas and flavors of its five whiskey-producing regions.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to sample a dram of single malt or blended Scotch whiskey. Soft drinks are also available, making this tour ideal for families and whiskey first-timers. As a memento of your visit, you’ll take home a limited-edition crystal whiskey-tasting glass.
Make the most of your time in Edinburgh with our guided walking tour that combines a walk on the historic Royal Mile and a guided visit inside Edinburgh Castle (entry included).
The tour will begin on the Royal Mile, where your guide will lead you through cobbled streets, sharing fascinating stories of Scotland’s past and pointing out iconic landmarks like St. Giles' Cathedral, the colourful Victoria Street, and the Grassmarket with its vibrant atmosphere.
Uncover Edinburgh castle's rich history and visit the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Great Hall, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city. Learn about the dramatic life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and experience the One O’Clock Cannon firing. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to keep exploring the roofed buildings of the castle at your own pace.
Ah, Edinburgh! They don't call it The Jekyll & Hyde City for nothing. During the day, a respectable figure, with its astonishing architecture and wondrous history. But when the sun sets, it tells an entirely different story...
Hear all about the darker history of Edinburgh: murderers, thieves, cannibals, hangings and decapitations, witches, the Plague and streams of human waste. Learn about the most notorious citizens of Edinburgh and how ghost stories are born.
This is not a ghost tour: we don't need costumes or people jumping from behind the corners, Edinburgh's Dark History itself is enough to make your skin crawl. And oh, how we love to share it with our visitors...
Experience our award-winning sightseeing cruise on the Forth for an unforgettable adventure. Glide under the iconic Forth Bridges and take in stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and Fife from our top deck. Enjoy informative commentary on the area's rich history and wildlife, and keep your eyes peeled for seals and a variety of seabirds, including the charming puffins.
For a truly special experience, consider upgrading* your ticket to include a landing on Inchcolm Island. Simply ask our staff about this option when collecting your boarding passes.
*Upgrade includes an additional admin charge and landing fee.