Top Edinburgh Architecture Tours

This Edinburgh city sightseeing tour offers a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus experience with an open-top double-decker bus and audio commentary in multiple languages. Hop on and off at key stops including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Mile. Buses run every 20 minutes with tickets valid for 24 hours from first use, providing flexible sightseeing at your own pace.

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.

Led by your Blue Badge guide, explore Edinburgh’s historic streets on a private walking tour. Skip the long lines at Edinburgh Castle and walk the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament. Discover hidden closes and courtyard parks while learning about the city’s vivid history.

Hear secrets from beyond the grave on this haunted vaults and graveyard walking tour in Edinburgh. As night falls across Scotland’s ancient capital, follow a guide through the streets and learn the mysteries of the city’s dark past. Visit venues believed to be haunted, including Greyfriar's Kirkyard and the Niddry Street Vaults—and keep your wits about you for sightings of the un-dead.

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.

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh on 'The Heart of the Royal Mile' walking tour. This 90-minute journey takes you through the cobbled streets where you'll hear captivating stories about the city’s transformation from a medieval walled settlement to the renowned Athens of the North. Led by expert storytellers, this tour offers unique insights into the lives of the characters who shaped Edinburgh's history. Suitable for all ages, this tour is an ideal choice for families and history enthusiasts alike. - Family-friendly experience - Perfect introduction to Edinburgh - Operates in all weather conditions - Led by passionate local storytellers - 90-minute guided walking tour exploring the Royal Mile - Discover fascinating stories that shaped Edinburgh's history - Suitable for families, with an adult required for children under 16 - Maximum group size of 25 for a personalized experience

Founded in 2022, Queensferry Walking Tours is a passion project by two brothers who want to share their knowledge and love for this special historic town. Elavation: Flat Views: Spectacular Weather: Scottish You and your group will be shown the best parts of the village and gain a true appreciation, through stories and by discovering it’s beautiful Scottish architecture. You will also find the best viewpoints and photo opportunities along the shore, Three Bridges, Waterfront & Village Tour. (South) Queensferry is situated on the Firth of Forth (river forth estuary) approximately 14 miles west of Edinburgh city centre, less than 10 minutes by train. Cruise ships anchor off the coast adjacent the Forth Railway bridge and guests are tendered in to the Hawes Pier. Typically a tour of South Queensferry starts at 10am and finishes at midday, however this can be flexible for larger groups, so please be in touch for bespoke timings.

Designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the world of whisky, this guided tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh is the ideal choice for travelers wanting to learn more about Scotland’s national drink. Learn about Scotland's whisky-producing regions and how the weather affects the flavor of your drink as well as the art of blending. View one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections and enjoy a guided tasting session.

No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a stop at the Edinburgh Vaults—aka South Bridge Vaults—the 18th-century underground chambers that lie far below the city. But independent visits aren't allowed. On this underground walking tour, hear tales of this dark and almost-forgotten place below one of Edinburgh’s busiest thoroughfares. See evidence of excavated storage spaces, human habitation, taverns with wine vaults and more.

Experience Edinburgh's history as you explore the Old Town and the Royal MIle, full of stunning tenement houses and monuments. See St Giles Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle. Hear stories about Mary Queen of Scots, Robert the Bruce and other famous Scots. Available in English German, Spanish, Italian and French languages. 2-hour: Old Town Highlights Tour Discover the essence of Edinburgh's history and culture. Explore the Old Town and see the Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, Canongate Kirk and more. The Black Rock with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle are just 2 of the many many iconic landmarks of Edinburgh. On this private tour, you will get up close to the historical and cultural heritage of this city, where time seems to stand still, whispering stories from the past. We created this tour with passion and expertise. Book now and feel the beating heart of Edinburgh!

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.

Planning a multi-day journey through the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye can be challenging, especially when it involves long drives and accommodation logistics. However, this 3-day tour from Edinburgh takes care of everything for you—so you can focus on making the most of the sweeping Highland scenery. Along the way, gain insight into Scotland’s past at locations such as Culloden Battlefield, and choose to enhance your experience with an optional cruise on Loch Ness and entry to Urquhart Castle.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, awaits you with its 24 iconic sights to explore on foot. From Edinburgh Castle to Holyroodhouse Palace, every corner tells the fascinating story of this city. Stroll the Royal Mile, discover hidden gardens like Dunbar’s Close, and take in the views from Calton Hill. This 3h30 tour will introduce you to Edinburgh’s unique architecture and street legends, perfect for history and culture lovers. An experience that combines heritage, mystery and vibrant urban life. - Explore 24 must-see sights in Edinburgh in 1 day - Enjoy a walking tour of about 3h30 - Discover local history and legends with audio guides - Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts

Uncover the rich history of Edinburgh on this 5-hour walking tour, taking you through both the Old and New Towns. Begin at the Royal Mile and explore highlights like St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle, where historical tales come to life. Stroll down Victoria Street, visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, and see the famous Elephant House Café. Enjoy a coffee break before crossing North Bridge into New Town, admiring its grand architecture. Conclude your tour with a signature whisky tasting at the Johnnie Walker Princes Street Experience, complete with immersive storytelling and stunning views. - 5-hour guided walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns - Visit iconic sites like St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and Greyfriars Kirkyard - Enjoy a coffee break at a local café during the tour - Experience a signature whisky tasting at Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Venture to the Scottish Highlands and spend two nights on the Isle of Skye, including a steam train ride on The Jacobite of the West Highland Railway Line—aka the “Hogwarts Express” of Harry Potter fame. This hassle-free 3-day guided trip from Edinburgh takes you on a comprehensive itinerary of regional highlights such as the Old Man of Storr, Eilean Donan Castle, and the legendary Loch Ness.

Step inside the beating heart of Scottish democracy at the bold and symbolic Scottish Parliament. Discover how architecture reflects national identity and learn about Scotland’s path to devolution. Optional: enjoy private transport. Available in English and French German, Spanish , Russian and Italian Languages Choose any of these fantastic options: 2-hour: The Scottish Parliament Tour (No Transport) Visit the Scottish Parliament at the foot of the Royal Mile and discover its bold design, national symbolism, and modern political role. Skip-the-line entry included. 3-hour: The Scottish Parliament Tour & Transport Visit the Scottish Parliament to uncover its modern design and political significance, with included entry & private round-trip transport. Uncover the spirit of modern Scotland with a private tour of the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. With a Licensed Private Guide, explore the bold architecture, national symbolism, & dynamic political life of this landmark institution.

Skip the hassle of planning logistics independently and enhance your experience of Scotland’s spectacular Highlands on a 3-day guided trip to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh. Immerse yourself in the windswept landscapes and local legends of the Scottish Highlands as you visit the county of Dunkeld, famed for its association with Shakespeare’s "Macbeth," and Loch Ness, home to the mythical Loch Ness monster, then discover the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Skye.

Step into the storybook streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town, where royal history, cobbled closes, and castle views come to life. Optional: explore the wonders of the National Museum of Scotland and enjoy panoramic views from the iconic Calton Hill. Choose any of these excellent options customised to your preference: 2-hour: Family Walking Tour Visit Edinburgh’s Old Town with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, and Castle gates. Hear royal legends, spooky tales, and fun facts for kids. 3-hour: Family Walking Tour & National Museum of Scotland Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, Castle gates, and enjoy entry to the National Museum of Scotland with dinos, mummies, and hands-on exhibits. 4-hour: Family Walking Tour, National Museum & Calton Hill Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, Castle gates, National Museum of Scotland, and Calton Hill for epic views and iconic monuments.

Edinburgh’s New Town is straight out of a world history of architecture, with its classical beauty and Georgian past. If you’re interested in hearing more about it then this informative self-guided GPS walking tour is for you. In 90 minutes, you’ll learn how Edinburgh became the largest planned town development in the world – and a "model city" – and in what sense its design and layout made it architecturally ideal. Although its original Georgian fabric has suffered many alterations, you'll see several clear traces of the former neoclassical city and the often-overlooked details in the fanlights and elegant ironwork of the original New Town street lights. You'll see buildings by celebrated British architects like Robert Adam and old maps and drawings. Downloading the tour onto the VoiceMap app to enjoy the tour on location or virtually at home.

Calling all Sassenachs! Prepare to step ashore and straight into the world of Outlander. We’ll embark on the ultimate journey through some of Scotland’s most stunning filming locations Your adventure begins in the village of Culross, transformed into Cranesmuir for the series. Wander its cobblestone streets and immerse yourself as you pass by the Mercat Cross (Note: Palace entry is optional and not included.) From there, it’s on to Doune Castle, the magnificent fortress that served as the seat of Clan MacKenzie. We highly recommend the audio guide narrated by Sam Heughan himself—a treat for every fan! After a lunch break to recharge, we continue to Blackness Castle. This fortress became Black Jack Randall’s imposing Fort William in the series. Our final stop is Midhope Castle, beloved by fans as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s cherished family home. The perfect ending to our Outlander journey (site access is dependent on availability).

Discover the history and legends of St Giles' Cathedral, from rebellions to royals, from guilds to guillotines, and even a unicorn - Scotland's national animal! Visit Edinburgh's most iconic church and explore the historic Royal Mile and Old Town. Available in English German, French, Italian and Spanish languages. HIGHLIGHTS: - Visit St Giles' Cathedral with a 5-Star Private Guide - Immerse yourself in Scottish history, cultural heritage and legends - Learn about the events and people of the Scottish Enlightenment and Reformation - Stroll along the Royal Mile and see Edinburgh Castle - Tailor the tour to the pace, needs and interests of your group St Giles' Cathedral (also known as the High Kirk) is a historical and architectural gem nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Visit this sacred monument with our Expert Guide to discover its Gothic architecture, royal heritage, and key role in the Scottish Reformation and the Enlightenment.

Experience Edinburgh Old Town’s highlights in your own way with this self-guided audio tour. Download the app onto your smartphone, and set off when it suits to discover the streets and sights: stopping, lingering, and restarting whenever you wish. Wander cobbled closes, stroll parks, and admire grand buildings as you discover history and detail you might otherwise miss. Lifetime access to the tour also means you can enjoy it at home any time in the future.

Step inside the legendary John Knox House, a rare 15th-century gem on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Uncover gripping stories of rebellion and faith where the Scottish Reformation began. A must-see for history lovers and seekers of Scotland’s bold past. Available in: - English and French - German, Spanish , Russian and Italian Languages Highlights: - Explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with a 5-Star Licensed Private Guide - Visit John Knox House and discover its historical significance - Learn about John Knox, the Scottish Reformation, and medieval Edinburgh - Enjoy expert commentary on key landmarks and hidden stories along the Royal Mile - Uncover local legends and fascinating facts about Scotland’s rich history This history-filled tour will take you through the iconic Royal Mile, one of the oldest and most atmospheric streets in Edinburgh. Follow in the footsteps of reformers and royals with a Private Licensed Guide, and enjoy entry to the John Knox House.