Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle with an expert guide. Admire the castle's treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels, St Margaret's Chapel, Mary, Queen of Scots Birthing Chamber, and more on our guided tour.
With your map in hand, your guide will lead you along the ancient cobblestone paths of this national monument. During the tour you will get to discover areas of the castle such as Hospital Square and the Western Panorama, where you can take in the breathtaking views. You will also see some of the more famous parts of the castle including: The One o'Clock Gun, Mons Meg, The Castle Esplanade, Crown Square, and more.
Your local guide will tell you stories of the incredible people who have shaped the Castle throughout the centuries. From stories about deadly banquets and daring midnight raids to the death of a queen and the birth of a king.
Be sure to set aside some time after tour for further exploration of the museums and exhibitions (not accessible during the tour).
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour is an outdoor experience, we recommend checking the weather forecast and dressing appropriately for the Scottish weather
This experience DOES NOT start at Edinburgh Castle. Please meet your guide at 379-381 High Street, Royal Mile next to the Statue of David Hume. Your guide will be holding a black and white umbrella with the EDI Tours logo on it.
Edinburgh Castle is still a functioning military garrison, therefore, the tour duration and itinerary may vary based on any ceremonial activities taking place.
Bags over 30L and suitcases are not permitted in the Castle and there are no left luggage facilities nearby
Ticket only valid on the specified date and time
From November 1st to February 28th the duration of this tour is 1.5 hours
On selected dates throughout November, December, and January Edinburgh Castle will host it's annual light show "Castle of Light". The Castle will close at the earlier time of 16:00 on the following dates: November: 21, 22, 28, 29 December: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30 January: 2, 3, 4
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Map of Edinburgh Castle
Professional Local Guide
Edinburgh Castle Entry Ticket
Gratuities
Royal Mile
This is our meeting point. This is where we will get everyone checked in. This is where our introduction to the tour takes place before we head off to Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle
We will get our first look at the castle from the esplanade, your guide will explain the geology of the area and talk about the first settlers here. You will also learn about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
351 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Renea A,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
John is an absolute legend, so happy we had him for this tour, incredibly knowledgeable and fun. But it's his passion for the sites to that shine through. If you're thinking about booking him, do yourself a favour and go with him
davidbZ7313TJ,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A really great tour. Charlotte was our guide and she was very thorough, explaining the history and function of everything in and around the castle. She was also patient and answered any questions we had. There was only two of us on this tour and unlike some companies who cancel a tour when there aren't enough people booked, this one still went ahead, which we were very grateful for.
Charlie O,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
John is unbelievably knowledgeable about the city. His comedic timing is also quite impressive, my uncle and I were cracking up. Great energy and great pace to the entire tour, he is a true professional. Very very kind as well, truly a remarkable tour guide 10/10 would recommend.
Daniel B,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
Outstanding tour of the Castle with John. Got to know almost every section of the castle. Fascinating information and stories, excellent sense of humor and the time flew by.
Stephanie B,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
We were captivated by John's historical accounts throughout the castle tour: he perfectly captured our attention with his energy and the pace of the tour. We learned and retained a lot from this visit.

Adrian P,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
Visiting Edinburgh Castle was the highlight of my trip to Scotland. The guided tour was exceptionally well organized, starting right on time with a small group, making it easy to hear and interact with the guide and fellow travelers, Our guide was not only knowledgeable about the castle and Scottish history, but also skillful in storytelling and engaging with everyone, including children in our group.
Gabrielle S,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
John was truly amazing. We have been on a lot of fantastic tours around the world (and some truly terrible ones) and can honestly say this is up there with the best. He was knowledgeable, chatty and was happy and able to answer any and all questions we had - no matter how strange. You can really tell he cares and even stayed at the end to answer many more questions we had as there was so much he clearly knew but didn't have time to share! A thoroughly enjoyable and informative tour, not to be missed. Thank you again John for a wonderful afternoon.
Ken G,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
John did a fantastic job showing us around the castle and surrounding area. We learned a lot enjoyed it quite a bit and he is excellent. I would highly recommend him for any tour .
Sherri P,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
John was the best guide. I would book every tour next time I come with his company! He was very approachable,funny and knowledgeable about not just the castle but about anything you needed to know in Scotland. Having a guide is so worth the money.
Shelby L,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great tour. Guide John was informative and had good stories. I appreciated hearing about all the history of the fortress and its lineage.
Operated by EDI Tours