Planning a trip to Edinburgh? The sheer number of tours can be overwhelming. It’s hard to know which ones are genuine hidden gems and which are just tourist traps.
To help, I’ve created a definitive list of the 14 best Edinburgh tours I’ve personally taken and loved. This is your shortcut to an unforgettable trip, covering everything from iconic history to secret underground vaults.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.
Iconic History & Royal Palaces
Edinburgh Castle
A visit isn’t complete without exploring Scotland’s most famous fortress. You have two main options:
- Explore On Your Own: For maximum flexibility, book your ticket directly from the official Edinburgh Castle website to discover its grounds at your own pace. A quick tip: tickets sell out fast, especially during peak season, so be sure to book well in advance to secure your preferred day and time.
- Take a Guided Tour: To truly understand its complex history and skip the lines, this guided tour gets you inside the castle to see the Crown Jewels and hear the stories behind the walls before enjoying breathtaking city views.
Insider Tip: What to Do if the Castle is “Sold Out”
Don’t panic if the official website shows no availability! Many third-party guided tour companies reserve tickets in advance. It’s always worth checking their websites for tours that include castle entry. Similarly, some Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour bundles include admission, which can be a fantastic way to save the day.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Walk through the dramatic former home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Book Your Entry Ticket Here
For Foodies & Drink Lovers
Experience the best of Scottish food and drink with these unique tasting tours.
Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience
Enjoy a 5-star adventure with interactive projections, live performances, and 3 custom cocktails crafted just for your taste. Great for whisky fans and non-drinkers. Book this Whisky Experience Here or Check Availability Below.
Lind & Lime Gin Tasting
Go behind the scenes at a local distillery, enjoy a G&T, and even bottle your own mini gin to take home. Book the Gin Tasting Here.
Underground Whisky Tasting at The Lost Close
A small-group tasting in a hidden 200-year-old vault beneath Old Town. Incredible storytelling and atmosphere in one of Edinburgh’s most secret venues. Book the Underground Tasting Here or Check Availability Below.
The Chocolatrium Experience
A fun, hands-on workshop where you can design and create your very own Scottish-themed chocolate bar. (I picked a unicorn!). Book the Chocolate Making Experience Here.
Department of Magic
Step into a world of spells and secrets at the Department of Magic in Edinburgh’s city centre. With two magical escape rooms and a themed potions tavern, it’s a must-visit for fantasy fans. Read the reviews here.
Spooky Ghost Tours & Hidden History
Discover why Edinburgh is considered one of the most haunted cities in the world.
The Real Mary King’s Close
Uncover a real, hidden street beneath the Royal Mile and explore its dark, perfectly preserved past. Book Mary King’s Close Here.
Greyfriars & Haunted Vaults Tour
For true paranormal fans. Wander the infamous Greyfriars Kirkyard before descending into the terrifyingly active South Bridge vaults. Book the Haunted Vaults Tour Here.
The Witches Tour
A fascinating and chilling walking tour that explores the dark history of the Edinburgh witch trials away from the main crowds. Book The Witches Tour Here or Check Availability Below.
The Ghost Bus Tour
A fun, theatrical ride on a vintage bus. It’s the perfect mix of spooky stories, comedy, and sightseeing. Book The Ghost Bus Here Check Availability Below.
The Best All-Rounder Tour
Islander® Harris Tweed® Mini Satchel Workshop
Design and create your very own Harris Tweed® mini satchel in this hands-on, 60-minute workshop on the Canongate. Guided by expert instructors, it’s a fun and creative way to take home a truly Scottish souvenir. Workshops fill up fast, check available dates and plan your visit here.
24-Hour City Sightseeing Bus
Perfect if you’re on a shorter schedule. This classic hop-on hop-off tour gives you the freedom to explore all of Edinburgh’s main attractions for a full day. It’s a fantastic way to get familiar with the city layout and cover more ground while saving your energy, which also makes it an excellent option for visitors with mobility issues. Book the 24-hour bus tour here or check availability below.
48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
The ultimate flexible option. This ticket not only lets you explore the city at your own pace but also includes entry to the Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. Book the Bus & Attraction Ticket Here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Tours
Do I need to book Edinburgh tours in advance?
Yes, absolutely… Especially the most popular ones like Edinburgh Castle, The Real Mary King’s Close, and the underground vaults, booking in advance is essential. During peak season (summer, August festival, Christmas) they can sell out weeks ahead. Booking online is the only way to guarantee your spot.
What is the best ghost tour in Edinburgh?
This depends entirely on the experience you want!
- For spooky atmosphere and history: The Greyfriars & Haunted Vaults Tour is excellent for genuine paranormal stories.
- For theatrical fun: The Ghost Bus Tour is a brilliant mix of comedy, theatre, and sightseeing.
- For dark history: The Witches Tour focuses on the real, chilling stories of the witch trials.
Is Edinburgh a walkable city?
The city center is compact, but be prepared for hills and cobblestones, especially in the historic Old Town. While it’s very walkable, it can be tiring. If you have mobility concerns, want to save your feet, or are short on time, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a fantastic and highly recommended option.
How much time should I set aside for Edinburgh Castle?
Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to properly explore Edinburgh Castle. There is a lot to see, including the Crown Jewels, the National War Museum, and various prisons and chapels. A guided tour usually lasts around 1.5 hours, leaving you time to explore on your own afterward.
What are the best tours for families with kids?
The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a winner for all ages. The Chocolatrium workshop is a fun, hands-on treat they’ll love. For older kids who enjoy spooky stories that aren’t too terrifying, the Ghost Bus Tour is often a big hit. Always check age restrictions for the underground ghost tours, as some are 18+.
For a much more detailed list, check out my complete guide to over 20 fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids, which includes age recommendations for each activity.
Final Thoughts & Where to Stay in Edinburgh
With your itinerary packed with incredible tours, finding the perfect place to rest is the final piece of the puzzle. The right hotel can transform your trip, and I’ve created detailed guides to help you choose based on what you’re looking for.
For the Historic Experience: If you dream of staying in the heart of the action, surrounded by cobblestone streets and centuries of history, check out my detailed guide to the 14 Best Hotels in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
For the Unforgettable View: If waking up to a breathtaking view of the castle is on your bucket list, I’ve created a special list of my Top Recommended Hotels with a Castle View.
Happy planning, and enjoy every moment in this magical city.
- Aparthotel Edinburgh: 12 Best Old & New Town Stays
- Fun Things To Do in Edinburgh With Kids
- How to Explore the Highlands from Edinburgh: A Local Creator’s Guide (2026)
- 14 Best Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh
- Discovering the Magic: Harry Potter Locations in Edinburgh for Muggles
