Available languages
2 hours 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
Make the most of your time in Edinburgh with our guided walking tour that combines a walk on the historic Royal Mile and a guided visit inside Edinburgh Castle (entry included).
The tour will begin on the Royal Mile, where your guide will lead you through cobbled streets, sharing fascinating stories of Scotland’s past and pointing out iconic landmarks like St. Giles' Cathedral, the colourful Victoria Street, and the Grassmarket with its vibrant atmosphere.
Uncover Edinburgh castle's rich history and visit the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Great Hall, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city. Learn about the dramatic life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and experience the One O’Clock Gun firing. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to keep exploring the roofed buildings of the castle at your own pace.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted in Edinburgh castle.
There will be 3 set of steps and 2 steep paths along the route.
The tour will take place on the outdoor areas of the castle. After the guided visit you will have the time to visit the roofed buildings and the museums
The company is not responsible for participants arriving late and missing the beginning of the tour. If the group is no longer at the meeting point when you arrive, please note that the first stop will be the Mercat Cross and the Old Parliament Square.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Local Tour Guide
Entrance ticket to Edinburgh Castle and guided tour
Guided tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile highlights
Gratuities
Royal Mile
Our tour will start on the Royal Mile. Your tour guide will offer an introduction to the city and the history of the Old Town.
Mercat Cross
As we walk on the Royal Mile we will see some of the city 'closes' and understand what these narrow lanes were used for. We'll also stop at the Mercat Cross, a site once used for public announcements and punishments. Can you spot the unicorn at the top?
467 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Bob J,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
Naomi was a great tour guide, funny and informative. We were delayed getting to the tour, and the entire tour staff made sure we were able to join the tour.
Leah M,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
We really enjoyed the tour, especially the Royal Mile portion. Mark was incredibly knowledgeable about both historical and current events, and he provided excellent recommendations for the rest of our day in Edinburgh. We were a larger group with 2 families including youth and teens, and everyone had a great time. I would highly recommend this tour as a perfect way to start your visit to Edinburgh and get familiar with the city.
Sandra M,
Aug 6, 2025
- Viator
Good morning overview of the area. Less people on the Royal Mile in the morning. The castle tour was interesting. Enjoyed our tour guide Ben.
Kristie H,
Aug 4, 2025
- Viator
It was fun and informative at the same time, learning about Scottish history as we walked thru the royal mile castle are. Phil was our guide. He is amazing with providing details in context of different sites with humor. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour learning and laughing and being entertained by Phil as he led the tour.
William T,
Aug 4, 2025
- Viator
Alisdaire was an excellent and knowledgable guide with great stories. He knew the history of Scotland and brought to to life and the combination of the walk along the Royal Me and a visIt was excellent to combine a walk along the
Operated by Edinburgh Walking Tours