Edinburgh Old Town Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit Edinburgh Old Town in 2025?

While it's free to visit Edinburgh on your own, there are plenty of affordable tours that can help you learn more about the neighborhoods in the company of an expert guide—and have some fun along the way. Walking tours start at $22; and hop-on hop-off bus tours start at $36.

Q: What is the duration of a typical tour in Edinburgh Old Town?

The duration of a tour of Edinburgh Old Town depends upon which tour you choose. Typically tours are between one and two hours long, though some might take longer. More specialized tours, such as those focused on food and drink, or private tours, can last from three to four hours.

Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance for Edinburgh Old Town tours?

You don’t necessarily need to book tickets in advance for Edinburgh Old Town tours. However, for your own peace of mind, it is advisable to book your tickets as far in advance as possible, especially during the busy summer season when some of Edinburgh’s most popular tours are likely to fill up.

Q: What are the must-see attractions in Edinburgh Old Town?

A list of the must-see attractions in Edinburgh Old Town would include the historic Royal Mile, which runs through the Old Town from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse; St. Giles’ Cathedral, which is known for its stunning Gothic architecture; and the modern Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood.

Q: Are there any themed tours available, such as ghost tours or historical tours?

Yes, many themed tours of Edinburgh Old Town are available, including ghost tours and historical tours. This is a place with a long—and often grisly—history, so ghost tours are very popular, especially those that take you underground into the vaults. History-focused tours reveal the events and people who shaped the Old Town.

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Best Seller

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

This walking tour of Edinburgh is a great choice for first-time visitors who want to get their bearings of the city and learn more about its history. By exploring the city with a guide, you’ll be able to stop looking at a map and focus on enjoying the sites around you. Your guide will teach you about secret places locals love, as well as the Old Town’s most famous sites. Highlights include St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Castle, and much more.

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4.9

(2,194)

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $24

Likely to Sell Out

Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

4.9

(218)

Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $24

Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Small Group Walking Tour

See the best of medieval Edinburgh—without the hassle of putting together your own sightseeing itinerary—on this walking tour, which includes skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle. As you walk, listen as your guide shares the history of this formidable city with ancient Roman roots and UNESCO-listed historical attractions. Explore atmospheric cobbled walkways along the Royal Mile, then breeze into Edinburgh Castle to witness royal opulence.

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4.8

(1,554)

Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Small Group Walking Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours 15 minutes

from $71

Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit

Set off on a magical tour of Edinburgh with our fun Potter-head guide, and see the places that inspired JK Rowling to create her wizarding universe. Then, enter the incredible Edinburgh Castle! Starting at Tron Kirk on The Royal Mile, we first head to historic Waverley Station. Then head to Edinburgh University Old College - a famous old campus which provided lots of inspiration for JK Rowling’s creations. We continue through the atmospheric Old Town, stopping at Greyfriars Kirkyard which inspired Tom Riddle's Grave and passing by the Elephant Café where JK Rowling sat for many hours dreaming up the world of Harry Potter! Get amazing views of Edinburgh Castle on our way to Victoria Street - said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley - and we finish near Edinburgh City Chambers where you’ll learn about JK Rowling’s impact on the city. After the tour, you'll be given your tickets to explore the beautiful Edinburgh Castle!

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4.7

(356)

Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $99

Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

Step off the tourist trail and explore the Scottish capital’s hidden secrets on this underground walking tour in Edinburgh. Follow a guide from the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town down below street level, where a series of ancient vaults lie. As you explore the dark passageways, learn why the vaults were built, hear of the poor souls who sought refuge in the depths and discover a hidden witchcraft temple. Gain insight into city life during the 18th century, and learn of the deadly diseases which threatened Edinburgh’s inhabitants.

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4.7

(8,680)

Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

Free Cancellation
1 hour

from $32

Edinburgh is known for its dark past, and this evening walking tour is the original one to showcase the city's historically sinister and spooky side. Discover the hidden ‘wynds’ (alleys) and closes of the Old Town as you learn their mysteries and horrors; visit the ghost-ridden Greyfriars Kirkyard; and explore the city’s underground vaults to uncover their spirits and secrets. Your tour is led by a creepily costumed guide to get everyone into the spooky spirit of things.

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4.7

(9,511)

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

Free Cancellation
1 hour 15 minutes

from $26

Delve into Edinburgh’s horrific history on this evening ghost bus tour. With your spooky local guide, visit the city’s most terrifying locations, haunted by infamy and restless spirits! From your seat in a double-decker vintage bus, gaze at eerie sites such as Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, and the Royal Mile. Throughout the trip, hear anecdotes and facts about Edinburgh’s chilling past, replete with bloody executions, unspeakable tortures, and murder.

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4.3

(2,828)

Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

from $28

JK Rowling's Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh

4.8

(549)

JK Rowling's Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $24

Likely to Sell Out

Edinburgh: Pubs & History Walking Tour with Beer Tasting

Edinburgh boasts a unique brewing heritage that’s often overshadowed by Scotland’s whiskies. This small-group tour throws the spotlight on the capital’s now-resurgent beer scene, with visits to several top pubs and beer bars. Stroll the Royal Mile and discover Old Town highlights as you learn how Edinburgh was once the world’s leading bottled beer exporter. As you go, stop for a range of tastings, and learn the stories behind each brew.

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4.9

(270)

Edinburgh: Pubs & History Walking Tour with Beer Tasting

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $59

Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

Listen to Edinburgh’s grisliest tales on a haunted evening or night-time walking tour. Experience the ghastly histories of monsters, madness, and murder that cast a dark shadow on Scotland’s capital. See where witch trials, pagan rituals, and executions took place, then visit the chilling Old Calton Burial Ground or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery to learn about body-snatching and some of the infamous individuals interred here.

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4.8

(3,876)

Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $33

Multi-Sensory Haunted Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

The Blair Street Vaults shouldn’t be missed when visiting Edinburgh—especially for fans of the spooky and macabre. But independent visits aren’t allowed, so you’ll need to a guide to gain access to this restricted underground area. On this ghoulish walking tour, descend into the darkened depths of the vaults and hear vivid retellings of torture, murder, and body snatching from your guide.

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4.7

(1,686)

Multi-Sensory Haunted Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
1 hour 15 minutes

from $39

Likely to Sell Out

Edinburgh Premium Food & Drink Tour with EatWalk Tours (3 hours)

4.8

(571)

Edinburgh Premium Food & Drink Tour with EatWalk Tours (3 hours)

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $161

The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl: 7 Bars!

4.5

(288)

The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl: 7 Bars!

Free Cancellation
4 to 6 hours

from $20

Discover the historical and cultural wonders of Scotland that lie hidden within Old Town Edinburgh on this 2-hour journey. Your personable guide will lead you through time as they share stories about illustrious citizens and infamous residents while taking in iconic landmarks such as The Royal Mile, Mercat Cross, St Giles Cathedral (outside), Greyfriar's Kirkyard, and Calton Hill—all sure to provide a captivating insight into the history of this beloved city. This is an unmissable introduction to understanding more about Scotland.

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5.0

(61)

Edinburgh - Old Town Stories

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $21

Likely to Sell Out

Edinburgh Highlights & Hidden Gems: Private Tour with a Local

Discover the secrets of Edinburgh as a local host accompanies you during this private, personalized experience. Learn about a more authentic side to the city that many travelers won’t see, visiting both popular attractions and hidden spots over the course of a day. The schedule is flexible, so make your own sightseeing suggestions or take advantage of your host’s insider insight and recommendations.

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4.8

(101)

Edinburgh Highlights & Hidden Gems: Private Tour with a Local

Free Cancellation
3 to 8 hours

from $102

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Scotch Tour Edinburgh with a Local Expert: Private & 100% Personalized

4.8

(21)

Scotch Tour Edinburgh with a Local Expert: Private & 100% Personalized

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $174

Price varies by group size

4.6

(486)

The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $34

Edinburgh Private Day Guided Tour in a Black Cab

4.7

(26)

Edinburgh Private Day Guided Tour in a Black Cab

Free Cancellation
5 to 8 hours

from $737

Per group

Skip-the-line Edinburgh Castle with Old Town Walking Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots to "the most besieged place in Great Britain”, Edinburgh Castle. See the majestic St Giles' Cathedral and the Royal Mile. Visit the historic castle courtyards. Available in English German, French, Italian and Spanish HIGHLIGHTS: - Discover the heritage of Edinburgh Castle with a 5-Star Private Guide - Save time with skip-the-line tickets to Edinburgh's top-rated attraction - Follow the historical Royal Mile and see the majestic St Giles’ Cathedral - Learn about Mary, Queen of Scots and other historical figures - Immerse yourself in Scottish history, culture and legends from past and present Edinburgh Castle is a cradle of Scottish history and Edinburgh’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take this private tour to explore the historic Old Town and Royal Mile, and visit the castle courtyards with an Expert Guide.

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5.0

(4)

Skip-the-line Edinburgh Castle with Old Town Walking Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $305

Price varies by group size

Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drink in Megget's Cellar

4.8

(620)

Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drink in Megget's Cellar

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $45

Rebel!Rebel! Jacobite Tour - Outlander's Scotland

Edinburgh’s history features intriguing tales, milestone events, and legendary characters, so its Old Town warrants more than an independent stroll. Give it detailed attention on a 2-hour walking tour with a guide in costume who knows it inside out. View famous buildings, a haunted cemetery, and film locations; and unravel the events that shaped the city without having to plan your own sightseeing. Choose from different time slots to suit you.

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5.0

(48)

Rebel!Rebel! Jacobite Tour - Outlander's Scotland

2 hours

from $34

Edinburgh Half Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan

4.9

(46)

Edinburgh Half Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan

4 hours

from $268

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

From Edinburgh: 5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, & Highlands Tour

Instead of rushing to fit all your sightseeing into a day; take your time, relax, and explore the beauty of Scotland over five days. This comprehensive adventure saves hours of research time as a full itinerary is planned out for you. Visit ancient castles, mountains, glens, historical sites, a whisky distillery, geological wonders, and beautiful lochs. Highlights include Loch Lomond, the Culloden Battlefield, Urquhart Castle, and St. Andrews Cathedral.

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4.9

(86)

From Edinburgh: 5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, & Highlands Tour

Free Cancellation
5 days

from $502

4.6

(409)

Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
1 hour 15 minutes

from $35

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What are people saying about Edinburgh Old Town

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

Scott_B, Feb 2026

Great tour in Edinburgh old town by Ben C!

Easy to find starting point. Our guide was Ben C, he was very knowledgable and entertaining. He presented a good pace and gave just the right amount of information. There were children on the tour and he engaged brilliantly with them, he encouraged questions and chat amongst the group. He kindly looked after the group and ensured their safety on a busy day in Edinburgh. Basically, can’t recommend this trip enough.

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

Julie_J, Mar 2026

Long walk on cobbled...

Long walk on cobbled streets up hills. Fine for us but bear in mind fitness levels . Very interesting walk

Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

Ricki_S, Mar 2026

Know your audience

Tour was great. A highlight of our trip. I just didn’t like the political comments and negative comments about author JK Rowling. Sometimes the tour guide needs to know his audience… when we say we are from Florida USA, that’s a big hint.

Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

Alexander_K, Feb 2026

Our tour guide Shanna was...

Our tour guide Shanna was amazing. She presented history, culture of Scotland very well and entertained us with the stories of the lives of Edinburgh inhabitants. We loved her attention to the details whether those are secret "security" steps in an ancient home or graveyard legends or Harry Potter hotspots. Beautiful! Well done!

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

Cristina_B, Mar 2026

An Exceptional Guide: A Fascinating and Entertaining Journey Through History

We were so lucky to have the best guide we could have hoped for! As a history graduate from Bristol, they are extremely passionate and knowledgeable. They are also a gifted storyteller and speaker, sharing fascinating stories that kept us on the edge of our seats for two hours. We are deeply grateful to our guide. It was an afternoon well spent, and we recommend this to anyone who wants to understand Scotland better and appreciate a highly entertaining, expert guide!

Private Walk: Edinburgh Old Town and New Town

Jason_M, Sep 2025

The best personal walking tour of Edinburgh

A very friendly and personalized 4 hour walking tour sampling history, architecture and culture of New Town and Old Town. Gerry, the tour guide is a very friendly and knowledgeable local, who makes the city come to life with his understanding of history as well as current events. 100% recommend.

Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

Peter_S, Feb 2026

History made entertaining

Max is a superb communicator making some very dry history interesting and even amusing. His knowledge of the subject was comprehensive and his love of everything Scottish and Edinburgh in particular obvious. He gave us some good recommendations among which was Oink, surely the most delicious fast food available anywhere in town. We’ll be back in the summer for the Fringe, another guided tour and another hog roast roll. Peter and Margaret Southerden