Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour & Holyrood Palace Ticket

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Explore Edinburgh’s Royal History

Join a guided tour starting at 10:00 a.m. and walk to Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock. Discover its dramatic history, from ancient battles to royal life, and visit highlights like the Great Hall and St. Margaret’s Chapel.

Later, at 2:00 p.m., return to the meeting point. A staff member will escort you to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where you'll explore with an audio guide. Learn about Mary, Queen of Scots, and the palace’s role in modern royal visits.

This experience offers the perfect blend of expert guidance and independent discovery — ideal for travelers who want to dive deep into Scotland’s royal and cultural heritage.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Edinburgh Castle entrance ticket

Guided walking tour of Edinburgh Castle

Holyrood Palace ticket

Gratitudes

What To Expect

Edinburgh Castle

Meet your guide at 10:00 a.m. at the designated meeting point, and make your way to Edinburgh Castle, which towers over the city from its dramatic perch on the ancient volcanic rock known as Castle Rock. Wander along the esplanade and uncover the history behind the castle’s construction and the numerous battles it has witnessed. You’ll also pass by the famous esplanade where the Royal Military Tattoo takes place each year. Let yourself be impressed by the splendor of the Great Hall and the Royal Apartments. Once the guided portion concludes, enjoy some free time to delve deeper into the castle’s many fascinating spaces at your own rhythm.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Included

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Then, at 2:00 p.m., head back to the meeting point, where one of our team members will accompany you to the Palace of Holyroodhouse — the official Scottish residence of the British monarch. Explore the Palace’s rich connections to some of Scotland’s most renowned historical figures, including Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. You'll also gain insight into how the Palace continues to serve the King today during royal visits and official ceremonies in Scotland.

1 hour • Admission Included

Options

Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour & Holyrood Palace Ticket

Reviews

4.76

25 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Ovesome
231dariusz,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was the best expiriance we ever had Jen was perfeckt performer we love it . We travel in time with her. We will remember fore long .
Royal view from above
Mary07020,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
The tour started on the royal mile and the guide, australian David, was great at explaining the landmarks along the way. He did a good job keeping us all together and reminding folks to not block with their umbrellas. We were lucky enough to hear about the black dinner in the hall near the palace and crown jewels. The jewels were spectacular on display....and had enough time to look at the details. It might go without saying, but there is no indoor to the castle, only the ruins. The overlooks give you a great panoramic view of the city
Edinburgh Walking Tour
dannieni ov,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A was incredibly knowledgeable about Edinburgh — he made us feel like we were time traveling through the city’s rich history!
Castle Tour
G9574IChannaj,
Oct 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Loved it! Out your guide was amazing!🩷 The way he was speaking and telling was incredible. My mother did not speak English, but following and translating was easy because the story telling was told amazingly.
Wonderful historical castle tour
Relax18678400266,
Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Joe gave a great tour! An Edinburgh native, he is very knowledgeable about the history of the city and castle and I learned so much. I highly recommend!
Gorgeous day at the castle
Gryph84,
Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Ignas was a fantastic and knowledgeable guide. The length of the tour was just right. It was the best way to get an entry ticket too
Worth It!
Ebony A,
Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Our guide Ignes was amazing! A bit of walking and rain (bring an umbrella to prepare FYI) but definitely worth it!
100% exterior & 110% experience !
Y7192YColiverp,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Raj captivated us with his tour and let us dive deep into the truly extremely exciting history of Scotland’s castle & royal history. With wit and charm he explained to us the (in my opinion) brutal executions of the respective kings. Finally, there were recommendations for bars & restaurants. As I said - very rousing and highly recommended! After the tour we had about 1.5h time to see the castle and all the museums contained in it - unfortunately a little many visitors but still great! Afterwards we went straight on to Holyrood Museum - here we had audio guides who did their job great. All in all highly recommended and gladly again:) Pro tip! Bring rain pants and a rain jacket! The tour is 100% outside and there may be British weather 😅
Castle
P3425OUnadiam,
Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Fabulous tour which was well worth it. Gavin was very knowledgeable. He was very considerate. The castle is amazing so much history. I loved the dogs stay at the castle. Edinburgh is a fabulous city.
The best castle tour ever!
sabrinatQ9412CG,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
The visit to the castle was incredible! The place itself is outstanding! I did the tour with Gavin, he was super fun and professional. He did his best and it showed. Thanks Gavin!