Edinburgh’s compact layout, dramatic hills, and striking architecture make it a fantastic city for exploring on foot, bike, or bus. Its rich history, lively neighborhoods, and seaside surprises—like Portobello Beach—invite travelers to see it from different angles. We particularly love the Edinburgh City Bike Tour for its ability to access spots buses can’t reach, like Arthur’s Seat and seaside views, all while escaping the crowds and enjoying a small-group experience. This tour is perfect if you want an active, intimate look at the city with stunning photo stops and fascinating insights from your guide. Check out this bike tour to see why cycling is a top pick for a more personal adventure.
For those who want to maximize time and see many highlights in one go, the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours offer flexible routes and quick access to Edinburgh’s iconic sights, from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. If you prefer a quick overview, the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour offers a one-hour introduction, while the full City Sightseeing Edinburgh provides a 24-hour ride with commentary. Both are excellent options for first-time visitors wanting a broad sense of the city. We also recommend the Edinburgh: Full City Tour & Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience for a deep dive into the city’s past and a taste of its famous whisky, especially if you enjoy a bit of storytelling and spirits.
If spooky stories and ghostly legends appeal to you, Edinburgh doesn’t disappoint. The City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour and City of the Dead Underground Vaults take you into some of the city’s most haunted sites, with guides sharing tales of ghosts, poltergeists, and dark pasts. Both tours are perfect for night owls and history enthusiasts who enjoy a thrill. Interested in exploring Edinburgh’s underground secrets? The Underground Vaults tour offers an up-close look at the city’s hidden, eerie underbelly.
Beyond ghost stories, Edinburgh also offers cultural experiences like the Scottish Cooking Class with city views, and private tours of the Royal Mile or the entire city, tailored for those who want a personalized experience. And for travelers who want a relaxing intro or departure, private transfers from the airport add convenience and comfort. Whatever your style, Edinburgh’s tour options ensure you’ll discover its charm in a way that suits your pace.
1. Edinburgh City Bike Tour – Choice of E-Bike or Manual
At number 1 on our list, the Edinburgh City Bike Tour offers an active way to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. For around $86.76, you get about 2.5 hours of small-group cycling through Edinburgh’s quieter neighborhoods and scenic outskirts. Your guide takes you out of the city center to locations buses can’t reach, like Arthur’s Seat and Portobello Beach. The tour features a choice of traditional bikes or e-bikes, which makes tackling hills and longer distances easier.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on access and intimacy. With a maximum of 15 participants, you’ll get personalized insights and plenty of stops for photos and stories. Highlights include the Union Canal, Bruntsfield Links golf course, The Meadows, and Holyrood Park. Guests praise the enthusiastic guide and the chance to see Edinburgh’s countryside, seaside, and local haunts in one afternoon. The combination of active exploration and local flavor makes this a top pick for those who want a different perspective on Edinburgh.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to see Edinburgh’s lesser-known spots, especially suited for active travelers and those who want a more personalized experience.
2. Edinburgh: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour City & Britannia Combo
Ranking second, the Edinburgh Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour offers two routes over two days, making it perfect for a flexible, rundown. For a reasonable price, you can hop on and off at over 20 stops, exploring landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. The bus’s open-top design provides great views, and the commentary is available in multiple languages, helping you learn as you go.
This combo is especially appealing because it combines city sightseeing with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which many travelers find fascinating. The reviews highlight the comfort and punctuality of the buses, with visitors appreciating the amount of sights covered in a short time. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited sightseeing time but still wanting to dive into Edinburgh’s highlights at their own pace.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for seeing many top sights in a relaxed, flexible format, especially if you want to combine city views with a visit to the Royal Yacht.
3. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour
For around $22.08, the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour provides a quick, hour-long introduction to the city. It covers key landmarks like the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and the National Museum. The flexibility to hop on and off at various stops allows you to customize your visit without feeling rushed.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see the main sights or as a warm-up before exploring on foot. Guests note that the buses are clean with clear audio commentary, making it a practical way to orient yourself in Edinburgh’s historic streets. While it’s fast-paced, it offers a good snapshot of the city’s highlights.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, quick orientation for first-time visitors or those with limited time in Edinburgh.
4. City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour
Ranking fourth, the City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour is a 1 hour and 20-minute journey into Edinburgh’s darker side. Starting outside St Giles Cathedral, this small-group tour (max 5 people) takes you through the labyrinth of closes and alleyways before entering Greyfriars Kirkyard, famously haunted and filled with stories of ghosts and poltergeists.
What sets this tour apart is its mix of humor, horror, and history, delivered by an engaging guide. Many reviews mention the storytelling as a highlight, with terrifying tales of the Mackenzie Poltergeist and other spectral residents. It’s ideal for those interested in Edinburgh’s spooky reputation and doesn’t shy away from creepy details. The small group size ensures you get a personalized, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and history lovers who enjoy a spooky, atmospheric tour of Edinburgh’s haunted sites.
5. City of the Dead Underground Vaults (Day)
The Underground Vaults tour ranks fifth. This 1 hour and 20-minute exploration takes you into Edinburgh’s underground vaults—once a thriving, but dangerous, part of the city. The vaults, sealed for centuries, are filled with stories of lives lived and lost in darkness, and the tour’s focus on the haunted aspects makes it a compelling choice.
Guides share eerie tales of families, the South Bridge Entity, and the vaults’ use over the centuries. Many reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling skills and the atmospheric setting. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in Edinburgh’s hidden, darker history, especially if they’re comfortable with a slightly spooky vibe.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric, chilling experience for those interested in Edinburgh’s underground secrets and ghost stories.
6. Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh City One-Way Private Transfer
For a smooth start or end to your trip, the Private Airport Transfer is a practical choice. For about $116.53 per group, up to 8 people can enjoy quick, direct transport from the airport to your hotel, avoiding queues and delays. The service includes flight monitoring, baggage assistance, and a friendly driver, making it ideal for travelers arriving or departing in a hurry.
While not a tour per se, it’s a hassle-free way to begin your visit without the stress of navigating public transport or hailing taxis, especially after a long flight.
Bottom Line: Reliable, convenient transfer service that ensures your arrival or departure is as smooth as possible.
7. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The City Sightseeing Edinburgh is a classic, with over 2,400 reviews and a high rating of 4.5. It offers a 24-hour pass on an open-top double-decker with audio commentary, taking you past major sights like High Street, Holyrood House, and the Museum of Scotland. The multiple stops and flexible schedule make it ideal for travelers who want to see everything at their own pace.
Guests often mention the comfort and helpful guides, making it a reliable choice for first-timers. The ability to hop on and off throughout the day with a single ticket offers a practical way to explore without rushing.
Bottom Line: A well-loved option for flexible, comprehensive city touring, especially for those who prefer a traditional bus experience.
8. Edinburgh: Full City Tour & Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience
Number 8 combines a full city walking tour with a visit to the iconic Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Over approximately five hours, you’ll explore Edinburgh’s historic Old and New Towns, visiting landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral, then sample whisky at the Johnnie Walker distillery.
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in a guided deep dive and a taste of Scotland’s whisky culture. It balances sightseeing with culture, making it ideal for those who want a more involved experience.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for history, architecture, and whisky lovers wanting a comprehensive day of Edinburgh culture.
9. Private city tour of Edinburgh Old Town and the historic Royal Mile
The Private Old Town Tour offers an intimate 2-hour walk through the oldest part of Edinburgh. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore alleyways, cathedrals, and learn about the curious characters who shaped the city’s past. Tailored to your interests, this tour skips the crowds and offers a more personalized insight into Edinburgh’s storied streets.
Ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, private experience focusing solely on the Old Town’s most intriguing spots. It’s especially good for couples or small groups looking for a flexible, curated walk.
Bottom Line: An ideal private tour for those seeking a tailored, in-depth look at Edinburgh’s historic core.
10. Edinburgh: Private City Highlights Tour with Driver
This 8-hour private highlights tour is perfect for those wanting a full, personalized day. Your driver takes you through Old and New Town, and can include visits to the Royal Botanic Garden and Leith. It’s a flexible, stress-free way to see Edinburgh without the hassle of navigating on your own.
This tour suits travelers with limited time who want to cover the major sights comfortably and efficiently. Reviewers mention the flexibility and the opportunity to customize the itinerary.
Bottom Line: An effortless way to see Edinburgh’s highlights with a private guide, ideal for those with a full day and specific interests.
11. Edinburgh: Scottish Cooking Class with City Views
Our final pick is the Scottish Cooking Class, a 4-hour session where you’ll learn to prepare a two-course meal with a professional chef. Held in a setting with stunning city views, it’s a delicious way to connect with local cuisine while making dishes tailored to your dietary needs. Participants enjoy tasting their homemade Scottish shortbread and seasonal mains in a cozy, intimate group.
This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to take home a new skill and a taste of Scotland. It offers a hands-on, memorable break from sightseeing and a chance to enjoy Edinburgh’s culinary scene firsthand.
Bottom Line: An engaging, practical experience for foodies seeking a unique, flavorful souvenir.
How to Choose the Right Edinburgh Tour for You
When selecting your ideal Edinburgh experience, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re looking for active exploration, the Bike Tour offers a lively way to see less-visited spots. Want a flexible overview? The Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours make it easy to customize your day. If ghost stories thrill you, the Haunted Graveyard or Underground Vaults are perfect picks.
For those who prefer a private touch, the Private City Tour or the Full City & Whisky Experience offer tailored itineraries. And food lovers should consider the Cooking Class, which combines culinary skills with city views.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (spring and summer), to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh’s diverse tour options range from energetic bike rides and flexible city buses to spine-tingling ghost walks and private bespoke explorations. Whether you want to cover the city’s highlights efficiently, get active outdoors, or explore its eerie past, there’s a tour suited for you. For a well-rounded experience, combining a hop-on-hop-off bus with a themed walking tour or a cooking class can enrich your visit. Remember, Edinburgh’s charm is best enjoyed with a bit of planning—so book early and get ready to discover one of Europe’s most captivating cities.