Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour
Overview
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the history Edinburgh's most historic quarter in a personal small group setting with an expert local guide. Most group tours of the Old town have up to 30 people, but not ours!
On this intimate 2 hour Walking Tour, you’ll find out how Edinburgh has evolved and developed over the past 2000 years. What were the major events that shaped it's development and who were the famous/infamous characters behind these events? We answer these questions and many more!
You'll see all of Edinburgh's most important landmarks, and some lesser known Old Town locations as well. This tour is perfect for the discerning traveller who wants the real history of the Old town.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchairs and Strollers can be used on this tour, but the Old Town is hilly and has cobblestones
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
This tour includes an expert local guide
What To Expect
Royal Mile
Traverse Edinburgh’s historic thoroughfare, see buildings dating back to the 1400s and hear some of the major events which shaped its history. We end the tour here.
Greyfriars
Explore Edinburgh’s world famous graveyard, hear how this site inspired renowned authors from Mary Shelley to J.K. Rowling contributed to medical science and the story of a certain very loyal dog.
Options
Summer Tour Schedule 2025
Winter Tour Schedule 2024/25
Winter Tour Schedule 2025/26
August Tour Schedule 2025
Reviews
209 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The perfect start to our visit to Edinburgh
Scott H,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We took this tour the afternoon of our first day in Edinburgh. It was a wonderful introduction to the city, giving us the necessary understanding of the city’s history to enrich our own exploring as we continued our own sightseeing. Given that we hadn’t slept we were worried we weren’t up for the tour, but no worries our tour guide Madge was informative and entertaining, and was the perfect way to start our holiday.
Great and fun historical overview of Edinburgh!
Carolyn B,
Sep 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00Madge runs a great tour! We were a large group, but she made sure to gather us around her and speak loud enough for all to hear, while still being aware of others trying to get around us. Her stories brought history to life and provided great context and appreciation for the sights around us. The two hours went by quickly and were an excellent way to spend our first jet lagged arrival day in Edinburgh. Thank you Madge!
Loved it
Kate R,
Sep 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00My guide was Andrew and he was fun and informative. He answered any questions and was great at telling stories of Edinburgh as we walked. We saw some of the key stops of Edinburgh and got some insights into the history of the city. Also gave some great tips for stops to visit after the tour.
Great for history lovers
Danielle L,
Sep 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00Shanna was amazing! She was an excellent storyteller and I learned a lot about the history of the old town. Would recommend to anyone
Kieran was knowledgeable...
Peter J,
Sep 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00Kieran was knowledgeable and entertaining. Thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Solicitous of people’s comfort.
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Operated by Local Eyes Tours