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?
658 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
MA O,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
Alisdair was a fabulous guide. Very knowledgeable, funny, and related to the group well. It was jam packed with history and the castle is impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Jed F,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
The tour guide, Phil, was quite knowledgeable as well as humorous. He provided extensive information on the history of Edinburgh and the castle.
Joan S,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
Wonderful guide, very pleasant and knowledgeable, great personality. However, we only had two hours and more time at the Castle and less on the Royal Mile would have been better and became tedious.
Steven B,
Sep 21, 2025
- Viator
Our guide Phil was fantastic. Made history come alive. Had good comparisons to current people and events to describe those of the past. Phil was enthusiastic, energetic and knew history very well. Did not want the tour to end!
Steven R,
Sep 21, 2025
- Viator
Wonderful tour of Edinburgh and the castle! James gave us an entertaining and thorough tour of the city and some of the important points of its history. James spoke clearly, communicated effectively and was a great listener - 5 stars for James!
Operated by Edinburgh Walking Tours