Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle worth booking?
Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle is a 4-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $357 per person. It scores 61 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 61 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (18)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $357 per person
Join us for this half day tour of Scotland’s beautiful capital city, Edinburgh. Exploring the Old Town on foot, led by your local Blue Badge Guide, is the best way to soak up the local atmosphere. Starting on top of the volcanic rock, we will visit the iconic Edinburgh castle. Then we will follow the ancient path of a glacier all the way to bottom of the Royal Mile. Your guide will lead the you through narrow closes and beautiful buildings surrounding the Royal Mile, giving you the chance to discover the city’s history and its famous citizens along the way. Our tour finishes with a view of both the Royal palace of Holyrood and the modern Scottish Parliament, a fantastic introduction to the city of Edinburgh.
What you get
About this experience
Join us for this half day tour of Scotland’s beautiful capital city, Edinburgh. Exploring the Old Town on foot, led by your local Blue Badge Guide, is the best way to soak up the local atmosphere. Starting on top of the volcanic rock, we will visit the iconic Edinburgh castle. Then we will follow the ancient path of a glacier all the way to bottom of the Royal Mile. Your guide will lead the you through narrow closes and beautiful buildings surrounding the Royal Mile, giving you the chance to discover the city’s history and its famous citizens along the way. Our tour finishes with a view of both the Royal palace of Holyrood and the modern Scottish Parliament, a fantastic introduction to the city of Edinburgh.
What's included
Included
- Blue Badge guide
- Local guide
- Professional guide
- Private tour
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Starting right in the centre on the Royal mile at The Hub. Externally it looks like a church, with the tallest spire in town. However internally this has become a cultural centre, where you can buy tickets for events, enjoy a concert, or relax in the local cafe.
5 minutes here
Edinburgh Castle
we’ll enter the castle through the Esplanade, where we are treated to some stunning views of the city. Once an execution site, it is now used as a parade ground for military events. this strategic point has long been home to local tribes before it was turned into the Royal fortress that we see today. Together we’ll explore St Margaret’s chapel, the Jewel house, the Royal apartments and the Great Hall. Whilst this is a working military facility, your guide will help you understand how the castle has changed roles throughout history.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Grassmarket
Next let’s continue to the Grassmarket, a vibrant and colourful place offering pubs, restaurants and shops. It is also home to Victoria Street, said to be inspiration for Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter films.
5 minutes here
Greyfriars
Entering the graveyard we find the final resting place of Bobby, Edinburgh’s most famous dog, make sure you bring him a stick. This place is full of surprises, follow your guide and discover who the Bodysnatchers were and Harry Potter fans can search for the tomb of Thomas Riddle.
15 minutes here
Greyfriars Bobby
Man’s best friend has his own statue, just as we leave the graveyard. Stop for a picture with Bobby!
5 minutes here
Staying with Harry Potter for a bit longer. We pass the curious cafe where JK Rowling worked on her masterpiece. Still a cafe today, you can buy a sandwich or a magic wand.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Royal Mile
We return back to the Royal Mile, the main street in the Old Town, starting at the castle and finishing at the Holyrood Palace. The path the street follows was formed by the movement of a glacier a long time ago. It is Edinburgh best known street to this day
5 minutes here
Deacon Brodie's Tavern
Pause here to learn about Deacon Brodie; the inspiration for RL Stevenson’s extraordinary tale, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Follow your guide to one of many hidden closes just off the Royal Mile. Turning into this little alleyway, we end up in a courtyard surrounded by tall houses, one of which is the Writers Museum. Let’s see how many famous writers’ names we can find carved into paving slabs.
5 minutes here
St Giles' Cathedral
Edinburgh like all cities, must have its own Cathedral. Founded in the 12th century, it is a focal point of the Royal Mile. St Giles is the patron saint of beggars and blacksmiths but also a patron of the city. You will find graves of many notable citizens, such as John Knox. Look on the pavement and try to find the Heart of Midlothian, your guide will tell you all about it.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Mercat Cross
There used to be a very busy market around the Cathedral. Imagine the hustle and bustle of the Old Town in the past, this really was the centre. Not only could you buy all kinds of goods but you could have witnessed a public execution or heard the latest news. Just behind the cross you find the site of the Old Scottish Parliament. Don’t miss the statue of Adam Smith, the Father of Modern Economics.
5 minutes here
Edinburgh City Chambers
Once back on the High Street we can see this beautiful building. Previously used as the Royal exchange, a place where merchants would meet and bargain with their trading partners. Today it’s home to the City Council, and is also a popular filming location. Your guide will take you to the forecourt to show you a “walk of fame” hand prints of notable people including JK Rowling.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
John Knox House Museum
The short-term home for the famous protestant reformation leader, John Knox, was on the High Street not far from the Cathedral where he conducted lots of controversial speeches and fiery sermons. It is believed he lived here only a few months before he died. Look at the detailed facade and search for its intricate designs.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Canongate Kirk
We come across another church, but this time it is still a living and working place of worship. Look above the main entrance to discover the Royal coat of arms. Your guide might be able to take you inside to see the Royal Pew reserved for the monarch. Zara Phillips, daughter of Princess Anne, was married here in 2011. We have met Adam Smith already, the famous economist, your guide will show you his burial place in the church yard.
10 minutes here
The Scottish Parliament
We have made our way down to the bottom of the hill where we are now treated to some modern architecture. This is the seat of the Scottish Parliament, where 129 MSPs regularly debate the current and future affairs of Scotland.
20 minutes here
Palace of Holyroodhouse
we started at the castle, former seat of Royalty and we are now facing Holyrood Palace, the official royal residence in Scotland. Her Majesty the Queen comes here at least once a year for a week of royal engagements and formal events. The palace is regularly occupied by many members of the Royal family.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Arthur's Seat
This beautiful green area in the heart of the city is popular with both locals and tourists alike. You may wish to climb the steep hill to enjoy some stunning views of Edinburgh, mind you the weather has to be on your side! We finish our tour here, at the foot of Arthurs Seat, your guide will happily recommend ideas for the remainder of your stay.
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Tour departs from The Hub, your Guide will be waiting outside holding a sign with the lead customers name.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Afternoon Tour 2:00PM
Afternoon Tour
Morning Tour 09:00AM
Morning tour
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Let me show you London
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wheelchair accessible
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
18 verified traveler reviews for Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best tour guide experience
Sarah was an amazing guide and we had such an enjoyable experience. He great personality and her knowledge of the city and castle was incredible. I would recommend to anyone who wants a personal and knowledgeable tour of Edinburgh!
Response from the operator: Robert, thanks for such a lovely review. It’s great to hear that Sarah’s personality and knowledge made your private tour of Edinburgh so memorable. Thank you for recommending us to others. We’d love to show you more of the UK next time. Mark Let me show you London
via Viator
Best Tour Guide
Francesca was absolutely amazing! Her knowledge of Edinburgh and the history behind all the monarchs was impressive. She was also really good at telling the story about how everything connects together.
Response from the operator: David, Edinburgh's history runs deep and knowing how to connect all the threads is what separates a great guide from a good one. It sounds like you got every bit of that on your private Edinburgh tour. Thank you for such a generous review. Mark Let me show you London
via Viator
Walking tour in Edinburgh
FANTASTIC!!! Isabella was polite, friendly, professional, informative & accommodating. A GREAT experience.
Response from the operator: Gregory, thank you for this. Edinburgh is a city that genuinely rewards a great guide alongside you, it sounds like Isabella made sure you made the most of your time. We're really pleased you enjoyed it so much, and she made such a strong impression. Mark Let me show you London
via Viator
Edinburgh in a day!
Our family had an incredible private tour of Edinburgh the Castle during our trip to Europe. Our guide was knowledgeable and brought the city's history to life with. They did an awesome job of keeping our kids entertained, which made the experience enjoyable for all of us. We really recommend this tour to any family visiting Edinburgh!
Response from the operator: Howard, Edinburgh Castle alone has enough history to fill a week! But keeping the whole family genuinely engaged throughout takes real skill. That is exactly what makes a private tour of Edinburgh worthwhile. Thank you for such a lovely recommendation and for taking the time to share your thoughts. Mark Let me show you London
via Tripadvisor
A wonderful tour of Edinburgh Castle in the city
Our guide, Hugo was extremely knowledgeable and very personable. We enjoyed our time with him and all of the unique and insightful stories. He had the history of both both Edinburgh Castle, and the city. We would highly recommend this tour, it was a great and unique experience. I think Hugo could’ve gone to whatever level of detail and depth if we wanted at each spot, but there is just so much to see and learn about and he did an excellent job weaving in and out of history through his stories and narrative. Really can’t say enough about how good this experience was. Thank you Hugo!
Response from the operator: Robert, thank you for this. Edinburgh is one of those cities where the history runs so deep that even a full day barely scratches the surface, and it sounds like Hugo knew exactly when to go further and when to move on. That ability to read what a group wants and adjust on the fly is something that really sets a great guide apart. We're here to help when you plan your next UK adventure. Happy travels! Mark Let me show you London
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $357 to $520
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Let me show you London, who run 15 experiences we rank across 6 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.7.
See everything Let me show you London runsWhy this scores 61
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle cost?
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Prices start at $357 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 61 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Included: Blue Badge guide; Local guide; Professional guide; Private tour; and All taxes, fees and handling charges. Not included: Food and drinks; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Tour departs from The Hub, your Guide will be waiting outside holding a sign with the lead customers name. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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Across 18 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, small groups. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Private Walking Tour: Edinburgh Highlights, including entry to Edinburgh Castle?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Afternoon Tour 2:00PM, Morning Tour 09:00AM. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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