Landmarks in Edinburgh

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Edinburgh - Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Edinburgh. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

Top Attractions

1. Edinburgh Castle – A historic fortress offering panoramic views and rich Scottish history. 2. Royal Mile – The main historic street connecting the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, lined with shops and landmarks. 3. Arthur’s Seat – An ancient volcano and popular hiking spot providing stunning views over the city. 4. Palace of Holyroodhouse – The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, open to visitors. 5. National Museum of Scotland – A diverse museum showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural sciences.

Popular Activities

Visitors can enjoy hiking up Arthur’s Seat for spectacular city views, exploring the historic Old Town on foot, and attending world-class festivals. Cultural experiences include visiting museums, historic castles, and traditional whisky tastings. Adventure seekers can take ghost tours or explore nearby countryside for cycling and walking. The city also offers vibrant nightlife, theatre performances, and shopping in unique boutiques.

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1244 Available Tour Excursions in Edinburgh

Free Cancellation
(201 reviews)

We are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. With our expert local guides, you will be able to explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Scotland in a way that is tailored to your interests and preferences. Embark on a breath-taking journey from Edinburgh to Glencoe, The Highlands and Loch Ness. Enjoying the stunning views of The Kelpies, Stirling Castle, Cairngorms, and Ben Nevis along the way. This tour will take you through some of Scotland's most magnificent landscapes and landmarks, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Starting in Edinburgh, our private driver guide will lead you through the heart of Scotland, as we make our way to the Scottish Highlands. We offer an exceptional on-board experience, enjoy luxury leather seats, self-rear controlled AC, WIFI, and USB ports, complimentary cold drinks and snacks in our onboard cooler. We look forward to helping you experience the magic of Scotland!

Price: $1,500.92

Duration: 10-12 hours

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Free Cancellation
(190 reviews)

What makes this experience unique is the fact that it is a very hands on, bespoke, personal and very knowledgeable workshop like no other in the country. Where you learn of the workings of a micro distillery, get to taste different spirit profiles, you also get to design and make your very own bottle of gin to take home with you after the class.

Price: $123.36

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(182 reviews)

During your private 4-Hour Tour soak up the amazing sights of both the Old and New Town of Edinburgh. You will be shown around in a comfortable and spacious vehicle by one of our experienced driver-guides. This private tour is perfect for the visitor who has limited time and who wants to see all of the major attractions. You will have time to get out, walk around and take photos and to learn about this beautiful medieval city from your guide. Or perhaps, you are a visitor who simply wants a shorter tour to orientate yourself to the layout of the city with hints and tips from your guide on the best places to visit, eat and shop in your own time. Here are just some of the places that you will be able to stop at on your tour: Edinburgh Castle Grassmarket Greyfriars Bobby Royal Mile St Giles Cathedral Mercat Cross Palace of Holyrood House Arthur's Seat Calton Hill Walter Scott Monument New Town Dean Village

Price: $696.32

Duration: 4 hours

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(111 reviews)

Niall and his team of experienced Scottish Tour Guides always aim to give the best possible experience, whether heritage related, historical, cultural or perhaps, a mixture of all three. Fun and authentic private guided tours of Scotland – The best Scotland has to offer. Raised in the mountains and glens of Scotland and inspired by his father, renowned Scottish author and historian Dr. Rennie McOwan, Niall feels passionately about his role as a bespoke guide. Directly descended from legendary Highland stalker Donald Ross, Chief Stalker to the Duke of Portland, Niall aims to give clients the best possible experience whether it be heritage related , historical, cultural or perhaps a mixture of all three – the best that Scotland has to offer . Niall ‘. . . showing visitors my native Scotland is quite simply the perfect job’. Niall and his small team will ensure you have a truly memorable and bespoke private tour tailored to suit your needs , interests and time frame. .

Price: $5,338.90

Duration: 72 hours

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Free Cancellation
(103 reviews)

This is a 2-14 day private tour of the Scottish Highlands operated by Dirty Daves.... there is no set Itinerary..... no rules and no holds barred..... join us for the most crazy and unique tour of Scotland. If you dont find what you are looking for we are happy to build a fully custom itinerary ... all you have to do is ask :) We arrange all hotels and they can be paid on arrival.

Price: $3,015.55

Duration: 72 hours

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Free Cancellation
(92 reviews)

Why book with A wee pedal? We are 2026 Visit Scotland's award winning 'Best outdoor experience' praised for high quality guest experience whilst supporting the local community. This cycle tour is unique; a 20 mile carefully planned route, mostly off road, seeing the Edinburgh most visitors miss. We have no need to use vehicles as we start right on the cycle path and are proudly named a zero-carbon company. Groups are kept small for high guest experience and safety and you'll learn about this ancient city whilst having a lot of fun with our qualified and experienced guides. You will start right in the heart of Craigmillar Castle grounds, close to the city centre and easily accessed by foot, bus, taxi or car (there is free on-site parking) E-bikes can be hired at an additional cost of £25pp cash on the day. Please let me know if you would like this option. (If you think you would prefer a shorter tour, please check out our 'family-friendly cycle tour to the coast' 12 miles, 3 hours)

Price: $120.62

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(84 reviews)

Edinburgh Walks offer unique small group private guided walks through parts of this UNESCO World Heritage city of Edinburgh. Your guide was born in Edinburgh, has lived all his life in the city and has an intimate knowledge of the place. With local knowledge to the fore, you can customise your tour to your own requirements. You are in charge. Discover the real Edinburgh in a friendly, relaxed and informative way. You will experience breathtaking views of Edinburgh and learn about the history of the surrounding area. Each of the walks around Edinburgh will take you to places of interest and beauty that tour buses cannot reach, allowing plenty of opportunities to stop, shop, rest and take photographs. Edinburgh, a city that HAS to be walked.

Price: $315.26

Duration: 3-4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(75 reviews)

The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is perfect for everyone who wants to know more about Scottish history. The people buried within the Kirkyard made Edinburgh what it was. We'll share some of the most important, most interesting and most surprising stories about these rather fascinating people. And we'll do this in an entertaining, professional and respectful manner. Greyfriars is a fascinating place that has links to some incredible stories from Scotland’s history (not 'just' Edinburgh's history). Their stories are the stories of Edinburgh. You’ll learn about these characters as you stand only inches away from where their bodies lie buried. Hear the stories behind martyred Covenanters, an amusing artist, an infamous ghost, grave robbers, the Irish murderers Burke and Hare, a tortured spy and, of course, the devoted Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Are you ready to ‘meet’ the ‘Dead of Old Edinburgh’?

Price: $123.36

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(72 reviews)

The perfect introduction to the city. Your guide will lead you through Old Town Edinburgh, where you'll be introduced not only to the most famous landmarks, but also to some of the hidden gems that make our beloved city so special. You'll learn about the origins of Scotland and Edinburgh, hear the stories of our illustrious citizens and (in)famous residents, wander among graves and through cobbled streets, always in the company of a knowledgeable and personable guide. Not to be missed!

Price: $24.67

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(71 reviews)

Intrepidus Outdoors is an adventure tourism and outdoor education provider based in Edinburgh. We specialise in canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and mountaineering, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland and the North of England. The experiences that we provide take clients into some of the most exquisite, incredible and extreme environments the UK has to offer.

Price: $264.55

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(71 reviews)

Discover Edinburgh's quirkiest Gin Distillery on this small-group tour and tasting at Pickering's Gin. Whilst many distillery tours focus on big-name brands, this intimate experience takes you behind the scenes of a small-batch production. Learn all there is to know about Pickering's gin and its unique distillation process in Edinburgh's First Exclusive Gin Distillery in over 150 years! Hear about how the distillery was created from an old veterinary school, discover the hidden history of Gin through the ages and enjoy a freshly made cocktail to highlight your tasting. Meet and greet Gertrude and Emily, the two stills – possibly in steaming action. Enjoy a guided tasting of 4 of our hand crafted Gins, and share your thoughts and feelings about your favourite drink with the group. Finish the tour in style with a perfectly poured G&T waiting for you at the Royal Dick Pub.

Price: $34.27

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(67 reviews)

This experience offers a relaxed and welcoming introduction to Scottish food culture through hands-on cooking. Rather than simply watching a demonstration, guests actively prepare traditional dishes themselves, learning practical techniques and working with classic Scottish ingredients such as smoked haddock, local dairy, and buttery shortbread dough. The class takes place in a small-group setting in Leith, one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant food neighbourhoods. Alongside cooking, guests enjoy a curated tasting of Scottish cheeses and share the meal they have created together at the end of the session. The focus is on participation, conversation, and discovering Scotland through its food in a friendly and informal atmosphere.

Price: $116.51

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(65 reviews)

Venture into the heart of the Scottish Highlands and along the mysterious waters of Loch Ness with our Private Day Tour. Explore Glencoe, designed for those who desire an intimate and personalized Scottish experience. Perfect for families, friends, or special occasions, this exclusive tour promises not just a journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, but a personalized adventure tailored to your interests and pace. From historic battlefields to breathtaking natural wonders, enjoy the luxury of a private guide and vehicle, ensuring your exploration of Loch Ness and the Highlands is as unforgettable as the legends themselves.

Price: $1,369.34

Duration: 7-8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(59 reviews)

Explore the oldest parts of Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage Site with an award-winning, five-star rated local guide! Robert was born within sight of the Old Town. He has lived in Edinburgh all his life and even went to a university on the Royal Mile! He teaches in a local primary school. Robert will wear traditional Scottish attire for your tour. We don't think you can get much more local flavour than this!

Price: $116.51

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(56 reviews)

The Alba Adventure is a 2-7 day private tour of Scotland (operated by Adventure Alba) . The itinerary can be customized (for longer or custrom tours contact us via email or our website, and we will make you a fully personalized tour). We offer tours of Scotland, the Scottish Highlands, The Isle of Skye or anywhere else you would like to go.

Price: $4,523.33

Duration: 72 hours

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(54 reviews)

Intrepidus Outdoors is an adventure tourism and outdoor education provider based in Edinburgh. We specialise in canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and mountaineering, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland and the North of England. The experiences that we provide take clients into some of the most exquisite, incredible and extreme environments the UK has to offer.

Price: $264.55

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(52 reviews)

Discover Glencoe, the Wilder side of Scotland – A Private Highlands Tour from Edinburgh Leave the city behind and journey into a Scotland of towering mountains, mirror-still lochs and dramatic Highland scenery. Departing at 8am to get ahead of the crowds, we'll take you beyond the usual tourist stops to discover quieter corners and spectacular viewpoints that larger tours often miss. Travel in comfort in a luxury, air-conditioned Mercedes V-Class, with your own local guide and the freedom to explore at a relaxed pace. Stop beside beautiful lochs, admire Glencoe's mighty mountains, enjoy scenic walks and keep an eye out for Scotland's wildlife along the way. As this is a private tour, we can tailor the day to your interests, giving you a personal experience of the Highlands with time to enjoy the places that capture your imagination. Customisation is available along the route to Glencoe and within the surrounding area. Destinations further north require a separate tour itinerary.

Price: $1,206.22

Duration: 8-9 hours

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Free Cancellation
(50 reviews)

This rum distilling experience is a very hands on, bespoke, personal and very knowledgeable workshop like no other in the country. Upon entry to the building you will be warmly greeted by your host upstairs at the main entrance. You shall then be guided to our bespoke micro distillery and once settled you are given a welcome rum and mixer followed by a brief outline of the running of the experience and history of the distillery. Next comes a short history of rums from around the world and a rum tasting section to help you come up with a rum recipe to distill your bottle of rum. Guests then pick a total of 6-10 ingredients from our botanical library to help them create and distill their own rum bottle. While distillation takes place, guests enjoy a rum cocktail. When distillation finishes, guest bottle their rum, add a label with their chosen rum name and finally wax seal their bottle to take away with them.

Price: $123.36

Duration: 3 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: GBP
  • Languages: English, Scots, Scottish Gaelic
  • Climate: Oceanic
  • Timezone: Europe/London
  • Population: Approximately 530,000
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is May to September for pleasant weather and festivals.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors from the UK do not require a visa. Citizens from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for short stays. Some nationalities may require an e-visa or visa on arrival depending on their country of origin. US and EU citizens typically do not need a visa for tourism stays up to six months. It is advisable to check current UK government guidelines before travel.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. Its unique blend of medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, offers visitors a journey through time. The iconic Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline, perched atop an extinct volcanic rock, while the Royal Mile buzzes with shops, pubs, and street performers. Edinburgh is famous for its vibrant festivals, including the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which transforms the city into a global arts hub every summer. The city’s literary heritage, charming cobbled streets, and scenic views from Arthur’s Seat make it a captivating destination for tourists. Whether exploring historic sites, enjoying traditional Scottish cuisine, or hiking in nearby hills, Edinburgh provides a memorable experience combining culture, history, and natural beauty.

Edinburgh Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Scotland
  • Duration Range: 2-8 hours
  • Group Size: Flexible group sizes
  • Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit is May to September for pleasant weather and festivals. Pack layers and waterproof clothing due to variable weather. Respect local customs and be polite in social interactions. Edinburgh is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is useful. Booking accommodations and festival tickets in advance is recommended.

Average Tour Price: $95

Lowest Price Tour: $39

Highest Price Tour: $250

Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and festivals are in full swing.

Yes, Edinburgh’s city center is compact and very walkable, with many attractions close to each other.

Yes, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world, and the Edinburgh International Festival are major annual events attracting visitors globally.

Local Food & Cuisine

Edinburgh’s cuisine features traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties, Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup), and fresh seafood. The city boasts a growing number of fine dining restaurants alongside cozy pubs serving hearty fare. Must-try foods include Scottish salmon, Aberdeen Angus beef, and locally made shortbread. Noteworthy restaurants include The Witchery by the Castle for fine dining and The Sheep Heid Inn, one of Scotland’s oldest pubs.

Getting Around

Edinburgh is accessible via Edinburgh Airport with flights from many international destinations. The city has an efficient bus network and tram system connecting key areas. Most tourists find walking or using public transport convenient for getting around. Taxi services and bike rentals are also available. Transportation costs are moderate, with day passes for buses and trams providing good value.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit is May to September for pleasant weather and festivals. Pack layers and waterproof clothing due to variable weather. Respect local customs and be polite in social interactions. Edinburgh is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is useful. Booking accommodations and festival tickets in advance is recommended.

Culture & Customs

Edinburghers value politeness and punctuality. The city has a rich cultural calendar with events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Hogmanay (New Year celebrations). Traditional music, dance, and storytelling are important cultural elements. Visitors should respect historic sites and local traditions. Tipping around 10-15% in restaurants is customary.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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