• The Hub - Begin your journey at The Hub, located centrally on the Royal Mile. Its exterior resembles a church, boasting the tallest spire in town. Inside, it serves as a cultural center where visitors can purchase event tickets, enjoy concerts, or relax in the local café.
• Edinburgh Castle - Enter the castle through the Esplanade, offering breathtaking views of the city. Once an execution site, it now serves as a parade ground for military events. This strategic location has been home to local tribes before becoming the Royal fortress seen today. Explore St Margaret’s Chapel, the Jewel House, the Royal Apartments, and the Great Hall. Although a working military facility, your guide will explain the castle’s historical transformations.
• Grassmarket - Continue to the Grassmarket, a lively area filled with pubs, restaurants, and shops. It also features Victoria Street, said to inspire Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter films.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard - In the graveyard, find the resting place of Bobby, Edinburgh’s most famous dog. Bring a stick for him! Discover surprises with your guide, learn about the Bodysnatchers, and Harry Potter fans can search for Thomas Riddle’s tomb.
• Greyfriars Bobby - Just outside the graveyard, find a statue of man’s best friend, Bobby. Stop for a photo!
• The Elephant House - Continuing the Harry Potter theme, pass by the café where JK Rowling penned her masterpiece. Still a café today, visitors can enjoy a sandwich or purchase a magic wand.
• Royal Mile - Return to the Royal Mile, the main street in the Old Town, stretching from the castle to Holyrood Palace. Formed by ancient glacial movement, it remains Edinburgh’s most famous street.
• Deacon Brodie’s Tavern - Pause to learn about Deacon Brodie, the inspiration for R.L. Stevenson’s “The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.”
• Lady Stair’s Close - Follow your guide to a hidden close off the Royal Mile. This alleyway leads to a courtyard surrounded by tall houses, including the Writers Museum. Spot famous writers’ names carved into paving slabs.
• St Giles’ Cathedral - Like all cities, Edinburgh has 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, as well as the city. Notable citizens, such as John Knox, are buried here. Look for the Heart of Midlothian on the pavement, and your guide will share its story.
• Mercat Cross - Once a bustling market area around the Cathedral, imagine the Old Town’s past hustle and bustle. It was the center for goods, public executions, and news. Behind the cross is the site of the Old Scottish Parliament. Don’t miss Adam Smith’s statue, the Father of Modern Economics.
• Edinburgh City Chambers - Back on the High Street, admire this beautiful building. Formerly the Royal Exchange, where merchants met and bargained, it now houses the City Council and is a popular filming location. Your guide will show you the forecourt’s “walk of fame” with handprints of notable figures, including JK Rowling.
• John Knox House Museum - The temporary home of the famous Protestant Reformation leader, John Knox, is on the High Street near the Cathedral where he delivered controversial speeches and sermons. He lived here briefly before his death. Examine the detailed facade and intricate designs.
• Canongate Kirk - Encounter another church, still a living place of worship. Above the main entrance, find the Royal coat of arms. Your guide may take you inside to see the Royal Pew reserved for the monarch. Zara Phillips, daughter of Princess Anne, married here in 2011. Your guide will show you Adam Smith’s burial place in the churchyard.
• The Scottish Parliament - Arrive at the bottom of the hill to see modern architecture. This is the seat of the Scottish Parliament, where 129 MSPs debate Scotland’s current and future affairs.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse - Starting at the castle, the former Royal seat, now face Holyrood Palace, the official royal residence in Scotland. Her Majesty the Queen visits at least once a year for royal engagements and formal events. The palace is frequently occupied by Royal family members.
• Arthur’s Seat - This beautiful green area in the city’s heart is popular with locals and tourists. Climb the steep hill for stunning Edinburgh views, weather permitting! Conclude the tour here, at Arthur’s Seat’s base, where your guide will gladly suggest ideas for the rest of your stay.

• Blue Badge guide
• Local guide
• Professional guide
• Private tour
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Guaranteed to skip the long lines

• Food and drinks
• Gratuities

Join this half-day tour of Scotland’s stunning capital, Edinburgh. Discover the Old Town on foot, guided by a local Blue Badge Guide, to fully immerse in the local ambiance.

Commencing atop the volcanic rock, the tour includes a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The journey continues along the ancient path carved by a glacier, descending to the base of the Royal Mile.

The guide will navigate through narrow closes and exquisite buildings around the Royal Mile, offering insights into the city’s history and its notable residents.

The tour concludes with views of both the Royal Palace of Holyrood and the contemporary Scottish Parliament, providing a wonderful introduction to the city of Edinburgh.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.