Edinburgh: Must-See Attractions Guided Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s must-see attractions hold centuries of history waiting to be uncovered. This guided walking tour promises an immersive exploration, led by a knowledgeable guide who’ll reveal the captivating tales behind iconic sites like Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Grassmarket. As you traverse the historic Royal Mile, prepare to be entranced by the city’s rich heritage and the stories that shaped Scotland’s past.

Key Points

• The 2.5-3 hour guided walking tour explores the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of Old Town Edinburgh, including Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, and the Writers Museum.
• The tour provides historical insights into Scotland’s past, from the Protestant Reformation to the stories of Greyfriars Bobby and body snatching.
• Participants can enjoy panoramic views from Calton Hill and have the opportunity to capture memorable photos throughout the tour.
• Private group options are available, and the tour offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour starts at the 20 North Bridge location and includes optional visits to the Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St. Giles Cathedral.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Edinburgh: Must-See Attractions Guided Walking Tour is priced at $65.13 per person and lasts 2.5 to 3 hours.

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. They can also reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour covers iconic landmarks like the Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, Writers Museum, Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral, and Edinburgh Old Town.

Iconic landmarks like the Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, Writers Museum, and more await on this guided tour of Edinburgh’s historic sites.

Travelers can discover Scottish history, take photos, and receive recommendations from a knowledgeable local guide.

Private group options are available.

Itinerary and Main Stops

Starting from the 20 North Bridge location, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Old Town Edinburgh.

They’ll visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, learn about the Covenanters at Grassmarket, and explore the Writers Museum.

Optional stops include Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St. Giles Cathedral.

Throughout the 2.5-3 hour experience, the knowledgeable guide provides historical insights into the city’s origins and the Reformation.

Itineraries may vary, but the tour consistently highlights Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, giving participants the chance to capture memorable photos along the way.

Highlights and Experience

As participants embark on this guided tour, they’ll discover the rich tapestry of Scottish history woven throughout Old Town Edinburgh.

They’ll visit iconic landmarks, snap photos at major sites, and receive insights from a knowledgeable local guide. The tour showcases the city’s origins, the Reformation, and tales of Scotland’s beloved authors.

Guests can customize the experience based on their interests, exploring hidden areas and learning about the Covenanters’ fight for religious freedom, Greyfriars Bobby, and the dark history of body snatching.

Panoramic views from Calton Hill round out this immersive journey through Edinburgh’s past.

The Royal Mile: Origins and Reformation

Though steeped in centuries of history, the Royal Mile serves as the beating heart of Old Town Edinburgh. This storied thoroughfare traces the city’s origins and evolution, from its medieval foundations to the religious upheaval of the Reformation. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks that tell the tale of Scotland’s past, from St. Giles’ Cathedral to the towering Edinburgh Castle. As they stroll this vibrant street, they’ll gain insights into the city’s tumultuous history and its lasting impact on Scottish culture. The Royal Mile is a must-see for any traveler seeking to uncover the rich legacy of Edinburgh.

| Origins | Reformation |

| — | — |

| • Emerged in the 12th century as the main road connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse | • Witnessed the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century |

| • Evolved as the center of government, commerce, and religion | • Saw the overthrow of Catholic authority and the rise of Presbyterianism |

More Great Tours Nearby

Writers Museum: Scotland’s Beloved Authors

The Writers Museum in Edinburgh celebrates the lives and works of three of Scotland’s most beloved authors: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the writers’ personal belongings, manuscripts, and first editions. The museum offers insights into their remarkable creative journeys and the inspiration they drew from Scotland’s vibrant culture and landscapes.

Guests can also attend talks and performances that bring the authors’ legacies to life. A stop at the Writers Museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich literary heritage that has shaped Scotland’s identity.

Edinburgh Castle: Centuries of History

Edinburgh Castle stands atop an imposing volcanic crag, dominating the city’s skyline. A fortress through the ages, this iconic landmark has borne witness to Scotland’s tumultuous history. Visitors can explore its formidable ramparts, admire the Crown Jewels, and explore tales of royal intrigue.

| Key Features | Highlights |

|————–|————|

| The Great Hall | Ornate medieval architecture |

| The Royal Palace | Birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots |

| The Scottish National War Memorial | Honoring Scotland’s war dead |

| Mons Meg | Impressive 15th-century cannon |

| One O’Clock Gun | Daily firing tradition |

Whether seeking panoramic views or a deeper understanding of Scotland’s past, Edinburgh Castle captivates all who visit.

Grassmarket: Covenanters’ Fight for Religious Freedom

In the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket once bore witness to the Covenanters’ defiant stand for religious freedom.

In the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket once bore witness to the Covenanters’ defiant stand for religious freedom.

These 17th-century Presbyterian dissenters refused to accept the Church of England’s rule, risking their lives in protest.

Today, the cobblestoned square stands as a poignant reminder of their struggle.

Visitors can explore the sites where Covenanters were publicly hanged, their unwavering faith etched into the city’s history.

The Grassmarket offers a window into Scotland’s tumultuous past, a testament to the power of conviction and the enduring spirit of those who fought for their beliefs.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: Greyfriars Bobby and Body Snatching

Though the Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous for the tale of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave for years, the cemetery’s darker history looms just as large. Grave robbing, or "body snatching," was rampant in the 19th century, with anatomists demanding fresh cadavers for medical research. Local criminals, known as "resurrection men," stole bodies from the graveyard, often dismembering them in the process. This disturbing practice gave rise to the creation of the Penny Mortuary, where the public could view the bodies before burial to ensure their safety.

| Greyfriars Kirkyard | Grave Robbing |

|——————-|—————–|

| Loyal dog | Anatomists’ demand |

| Guarded master’s grave | "Resurrection men" |

| Disturbing history | Dismemberment |

| Body snatching | Penny Mortuary |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Departure Time for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a fixed departure time. It’s a guided walking tour that starts at the designated meeting point, 20 North Bridge. Participants can join the tour at the scheduled start time.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children. It offers a 2.5-3 hour guided walking experience through Edinburgh’s top attractions, making it an engaging and educational option for families. The meeting point is accessible, and private group options are available.

Are Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Restroom facilities are available during the tour. The tour includes several stops where participants can access public restrooms along the route. Specific restroom locations may vary depending on the itinerary.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs Along the Tour Route?

The tour itinerary doesn’t include time to purchase souvenirs along the route. However, there may be opportunities to browse shops and markets in some of the optional stops, like the Grassmarket area. Participants can check with their guide for any souvenir recommendations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the 2.5-3 hour tour duration. The tour operator offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and length based on your interests, allowing you to spend more time at key sites along the route.

The Sum Up

This guided walking tour offers an immersive exploration of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and captivating history. Visitors will discover the tales of Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Grassmarket, and the Writers Museum, while enjoying stunning views from Calton Hill. With an expert English-speaking guide, this 2.5 to 3-hour tour at $65.13 per person promises an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: