Top Edinburgh Archaeology Tours

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.

Explore Scotland’s rugged peaks and islands on this 8-day Orkney, Skye, and Highlands tour from Edinburgh. Instead of hiring a car and trying to navigate unfamiliar roads yourself, sit back and relax as you take in views of Scotland's scenic west coast. Visit Loch Lomond and Loch Ness, pause at the battlefield of Culloden, snap photos at Glen Coe, and much more. Along the way, delve into Scotland’s folklore heritage and see what makes the country tick.

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.

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.

A trip to the capital of Scotland isn't complete without a tour of Edinburgh Castle. Follow your guide through the grounds and hear tales of the castle's royal residents—including Mary Queen of Scots—and learn more about the rich history of the building. After your tour ends, there's plenty of free time explore the castle's interior and the rest of the grounds, which includes 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.

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.

Get an in-depth perspective on Edinburgh on this guided tour that goes deeper than most. Usually led by a guide with a PhD in Scottish history, this tour offers a journey through Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town from the main thoroughfares to the hidden closes (alleyways) and courtyards. Your guide shares tales of dramatic events in the neighborhood's history, as well as those of the writers, philosophers, and inventors who called the area home.

Explore some of the most picturesque and rugged spots in the Scottish Highlands—including the Outer Hebrides—during this 5-day tour from Edinburgh. Leave the route planning and navigation to someone else as you relax between locations and take in the scenery. Visit Glen Coe and Loch Ness, head over to Lewis and Harris to see the Callanish Standing Stones, explore the white sands of Luskentyre, see a Harris Tweed weaver at work, and watch for seals at the wild and windy Butt of Lewis. Throughout your adventure, benefit from the insider knowledge of a local guide.

Soak up Scotland’s rich history, nature, and culture without having to sort out your own transportation on this 5-day tour from Edinburgh to Orkney and the Highlands. Visit majestic Glen Coe on your way north before sailing over to Orkney to discover treasures including the Italian Chapel, Maes Howe Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar. Back on the mainland, visit Dunrobin Castle, the pretty town of Pitlochry and more.

Discover the beauty, history, and spirit of Scotland on this exclusive 12-hour private tour departing from Edinburgh. Travel in comfort with your personal chauffeur-guide in English as you explore some of the country’s most iconic landmarks: the majestic Stirling Castle, the breathtaking Queen’s View, and the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. This tailor-made experience also includes a memorable stop at the renowned Blair Athol Distillery, where you’ll enjoy a guided whisky tasting and learn about one of Scotland’s most beloved traditions. With a balance of history, nature, and local flavor, this tour offers an immersive journey into the heart of Scotland—perfect for those seeking an unforgettable day out. This tour is the perfect blend of history, culture, and tradition — ideal for travellers seeking a deeper, more authentic Scottish experience.

Meet your guide by the William Chambers Statue. From there, you’ll step inside the National Museum of Scotland and explore Scottish history, science and world culture. Hear stories from your guide on Dolly the sheep, the first ever mammal cloned from an adult cell. See the Lewis chessmen made from walrus ivory, the Newcomen engine and uncover the rumours of Satanism and witchcraft behind the Arthur’s Seat coffins. After your tour ends, continue exploring the museum at your own pace with an audio tour app. Discover Ancient Egyptian relics, a tyrannosaurus rex skeleton and even the Scottish maiden – an early version of the guillotine.

Discover the legendary beauty and mystery of Scotland on this unforgettable 12-hour private tour from Edinburgh. Designed for travelers seeking a personalized experience, this journey takes you deep into the heart of the Scottish Highlands—through dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and centuries of rich history. Take this opportunity to know about the history and culture of this wonderful city with this private tour. This tour could also be done walking just with your official tour guide.

Step into the heart of England's medieval past with this exclusive private tour to two of the country’s most iconic castles: Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh Castle. Perfect for history lovers, film enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the charm of Northumberland, this 10-hour journey offers a seamless blend of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating heritage, and personal comfort. Your private English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up at your desired location in a luxury vehicle. Enjoy a comfortable drive through the stunning Northumberland countryside as your guide shares captivating stories and historical insights along the way.

We will begin this Private Edinburgh Tour with a visit to the old city. Here we will see one of the most emblematic places in the city that is the medieval castle that still preserves the structure thousands of years ago. Next, we will enter the neighborhood known for its small streets, where we will see the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Firstly, meet up with one of our great private tour guides. Your chauffeur will be waiting in the vehicle to take you on this great city tour of Edinburgh! Then we will see the new city built between the 13th and 19th centuries due to the overpopulation of the old city. We will see its main street, Princes st, and its famous gardens that border between neighborhoods. Among many other prominent places in both the old and new city, we will see; The Parliament of Scotland, La Magdalen chapel, the alleys of The Royal Mile.

Explore the stunning Scottish Highlands on a full-day excursion that includes Glencoe and Loch Ness. Set out from Edinburgh aboard a comfortable coach to experience some of the area's top sights and attractions. Visit Callander, the "Gateway to the Highlands," learn the fascinating history of Glencoe—a village made famous as a setting for movies in the “James Bond” and “Harry Potter” series—and see the world-renowned Loch Ness too.

Let Macleod Heilan Tours whisk you away from the city and up to the famous Orkney Islands. Steeped in history with some of the best Neolithic sites in the World such as Maeshowe and Skara Brae (Northern Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village) all of which are protected UNESCO World Heritage sites this tour has so much to offer. • Viking History, Kirkwall, Bishops Palace, St Magnus Cathedral, Maeshowe Runic Graffiti • Great War Sites, Scapa Flow Museum, Italian Chapel, Churchill Barriers • Iron Age Brochs • Whisky Distilleries, Depending on time you may wish to include Highland Park or another distillery on route • Loch Ness, Glencoe , Culloden, Inverness, North Coast 500 Group accommodation is requested to be booked independently in Kirkwall or nearby. This MUST be arranged before we can confirm the tour. We will assist but can't book this on your behalf to observe UK regulations. Luggage restrictions apply - get in touch to find out how much will fit onboard the vehicle.

Start your journey with a visit to the legendary Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century architectural gem shrouded in myths and symbolism, made famous by The Da Vinci Code. Explore its intricate carvings, rich history, and deep ties to the Knights Templar and Masonic lore. From there, enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Scottish Borders as we make our way south to Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest surviving remnants of the Roman Empire. Walk along the ancient frontier, visit key forts such as Housesteads or Chesters, and gain a deeper understanding of Roman Britain from your private guide. Private 11-hour tour with luxury vehicle and English-speaking driver/guide Visit the legendary Rosslyn Chapel, filled with mystery and symbolism Explore the dramatic landscapes and Roman ruins of Hadrian’s Wall Scenic drive through the picturesque Scottish Borders Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Edinburgh or surrounding areas

Discover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of three of Scotland’s most iconic castles with this exclusive 10-hour private tour. Accompanied by an English-speaking driver/guide, you will journey in comfort through the Scottish countryside as you visit Glamis Castle, Dunnottar Castle, and Aberdour Castle, each offering a unique glimpse into the nation’s storied past. This tour is the perfect blend of history, culture, and tradition — ideal for travellers seeking a deeper, more authentic Scottish experience.

Explore the enchanting castles of Northumberland on a captivating day trip. Visit the iconic Alnwick Castle. Journey to Holy Island to witness the haunting ruins of Lindisfarne, and marvel at the majestic Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically on the cliffside. This tour reveals the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northumberland, perfect for history enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans alike. - Visit the historic Holy Island and its remarkable Lindisfarne ruins - Discover the real Hogwarts set at Alnwick Castle - Admire the striking Bamburgh Castle overlooking the coastline - Ideal for fans of history, architecture, and film locations

Begin your day with a visit to Stirling Castle, one of the most historically significant castles in Scotland. Perched high above the city, it offers dramatic views and fascinating tales of Scottish royalty and warfare. Your entry ticket is included, allowing you to explore its grand halls, royal chambers, and beautifully restored Renaissance architecture at your own pace. ✅ Private 12-hour experience with a professional English-speaking driver/guide ✅ Entry to the majestic Stirling Castle ✅ Explore the historic town of St Andrews at your leisure ✅ Guided visit and tasting at a local whisky distillery ✅ Travel in a comfortable, private vehicle ✅ Personalised and flexible itinerary Continue your journey through the picturesque countryside to St Andrews, a charming coastal town famous as the “home of golf” and for hosting Scotland’s oldest university. Enjoy free time to stroll along the medieval streets, visit the cathedral ruins, or walk along the stunning beaches.