Edinburgh is one of the most fascinating cities to explore, thanks to its combination of medieval castles, lively streets, and dramatic landscapes. What makes Edinburgh stand out is its rich mix of history, legends, and stunning scenery, all of which you can experience firsthand through guided tours. We particularly love the Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour — a lively, story-driven way to step inside one of Scotland’s most iconic sites — and the Underground Vaults Ghost Tour, which offers a spine-tingling peek into the city’s darker past. Whether you’re into history, ghost stories, or scenic day trips into the Highlands, Edinburgh’s tour options have you covered.
If you’ve got limited time, the city offers excellent half-day explorations, while those craving more adventure can opt for multi-day journeys into the Highlands and Isle of Skye. With so many choices, we’ve sorted out the very best to ensure your Scottish adventure is memorable and well-informed.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of guided walking tours, bus excursions, bike rides, and even private custom trips, each highlighting different facets of Edinburgh and its surroundings. From the Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour to a 4-day Isle of Skye adventure, there’s something for every interest and pace. Whether you want an immersive history lesson, a spooky night out, or a scenic Highland drive, these tours are top-rated and designed to give you authentic Scottish experiences. For more options, check out the full list below.
1. Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
This tour gets you inside Edinburgh Castle with a guided group that’s perfect for history lovers. It includes the castle entrance, so you skip the lines, and a passionate local guide who brings the site’s 900-year story to life. You’ll see St Margaret’s Chapel, James VI’s birthplace, and enjoy superb views over the city. The guides excel at weaving entertaining stories, making history accessible and fun.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of ticket included and the engaging storytelling from guides like Steph and Greg, who get rave reviews (“She did such an awesome job, giving us the castle’s history”). The 1.5-hour tour is a great way to understand Edinburgh’s royal past without sacrificing flexibility. It’s ideal for those new to the city or wanting an overview of its most iconic site with a lively guide.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-organized, story-driven look at Edinburgh Castle, this tour offers excellent value and memorable insider insights.
2. Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky
For a spooky evening, this underground ghost tour takes you beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town into Blair Street Vaults—famous for their haunted reputation. The guided experience lasts about 2 hours, with storytellers weaving tales of gruesome murders and legends that lurk in the dark.
The highlight is descending into the vaults themselves, which are notoriously haunted. The tour is enhanced with sounds of Edinburgh via audio devices, and ends in a candlelit cellar for a whisky or drink, making for an intimate, multi-sensory experience. Tour guides like Maeve and Michael are highly praised for their storytelling prowess (“You get to go three stories underground, and it’s a little spooky—but in the best way!”).
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy ghost stories, history, and a dash of the supernatural with a whisky in hand. Be prepared for some spooky surprises.
3. Edinburgh: Multi-Sensory Haunted Underground Tour
This tour is a variation of the vaults experience, emphasizing multi-sensory storytelling. It covers Blair Street Vaults and uses sound, visuals, and even artifacts to create a fully immersive experience. Led by expert storytellers like Jack and Shannon, it’s a great pick for those who want a vivid, authentic ghostly encounter.
In roughly 75 minutes, you’ll explore a site that’s considered one of the most haunted places in Scotland. The guide’s storytelling is highly praised (“Jack’s explanation about the whole experience of the vault was exceptional”), and visitors love how it makes history come alive through sensory detail. The tour also includes a brief walk through Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving an intense, multi-sensory ghost experience with knowledgeable guides and exclusive access.
4. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour in Spanish
This full-day tour takes you into the Scottish Highlands, with a special focus on Loch Ness and Inverness. The trip features stops for photo ops in Glencoe, the chance to sail Loch Ness and hunt for Nessie, plus a stroll through Inverness. It’s a comprehensive, scenic journey ideal for those wanting to see iconic Highland landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.
Rated 4.7/5 with 900 reviews, the trip is praised for its well-planned itinerary and engaging Spanish-speaking guides like Adrián. The highlights include Highland Cows, Glen Coe, and the Victorian village of Pitlochry. The 12.5-hour day offers a good mix of scenery, history, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Spanish speakers or anyone who wants a full-day Highland experience that combines natural beauty with historic sites.
5. From Edinburgh: Loch Ness & Scottish Highlands Tour
This 12-hour guided bus trip offers a classic Highlands experience with stops at Ben Nevis, Loch Ness, and Glen Coe. The tour includes a Loch Ness cruise (optional) and a scenic drive through the Cairngorms. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Highland grandeur without an overnight stay.
Rated 4.3/5 with more than 2,300 reviews, it’s praised for knowledgeable guides like Steve and the opportunity to see famous sights like the Three Sisters and Culloden Battlefield. The tour is packed but well-paced, with some guests noting the long day is worth the spectacular scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed Highland tour, especially if you enjoy boat cruises and scenic drives.
6. From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Highlands Tour
This 12-hour day trip is a highlight for film fans and scenery lovers alike. It visits the Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter series, along with dramatic Glencoe and the Commando Memorial. It’s a visually stunning route with plenty of photo stops and engaging commentary.
Rated 4.7/5 based on 662 reviews, travelers love the balance of scenery, history, and fun stories. The trip also includes stops at Pitlochry and other charming spots. The guide, often described as humorous and informative, makes long drives fly by.
Bottom Line: A must for Harry Potter fans or anyone wanting a full Highland experience with movie magic sprinkled in.
7. Edinburgh: Food Tour with Scotch, Haggis, Secret Dish & More
For a taste of Scotland’s culinary culture, this 3-hour food tour is a real treat. You’ll sample haggis with neeps & tatties, learn about traditional dishes, and sip award-winning single malt Scotch. The tour takes you through the Old Town, with plenty of stories behind each bite.
Rated 4.8/5 from 462 reviews, this experience is perfect for foodies wanting to explore Edinburgh’s flavors. Guides share fascinating tales while you indulge in local specialties and secret dishes. It’s a relaxed, flavorful way to understand Scottish culture.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers eager to combine food, culture, and storytelling into one delicious experience.
8. Private Tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh
If you prefer personalized attention, this private 8-hour tour customizes your Highland adventure. With your own guide, explore Craigie’s Farm, Luss, Inveraray Castle, and more at your pace. The tour includes snacks and photo stops along the way.
Rated 5.0/5 with just 220 reviews, it’s perfect for families or small groups seeking a flexible, tailored experience. Many travelers rave about guide Phil’s care and storytelling (“made this trip even more wonderful,” one review says). Because it’s private, you can choose your specific interests.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a personalized Highland trip with a dedicated guide.
9. Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide
This 2-hour guided tour covers Edinburgh Castle’s highlights, including the Scottish Crown Jewels, One O’clock Gun, and St Margaret’s Chapel. It’s perfect for visitors who want a focused, informative visit with a knowledgeable guide like Fiona or John.
Guests praise it for its thorough explanations and the ability to explore the castle afterward at their leisure. The group size is small enough for questions, and the included tickets save time in lines.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a detailed, well-structured visit to Edinburgh’s most famous fortress.
10. Edinburgh City Bike Tour – Choice of E-Bike or Manual
This 2.5-hour bike tour provides fresh air and a different perspective of Edinburgh. You can choose between electric or manual bikes and visit places like Holyrood Park, Leith, and the Meadows.
Rated 5.0/5 from 196 reviews, it’s praised for enthusiastic guides and the ability to cover more ground than walking. It’s excellent for active travelers who want to see the city’s less touristy spots.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to explore Edinburgh’s parks, neighborhoods, and seaside in one go.
11. 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
This 2-day tour is perfect for soaking up Highland scenery with minimal crowds. You’ll visit Glen Coe, Loch Ness, the Culloden Battlefield, and more, staying in cozy accommodations.
Rated 5.0/5 from 188 reviews, travelers appreciate expert guides like Euen and James who share stories and historical context. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of time at each stop.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a relaxed, immersive Highland experience over two days, this tour offers a balance of scenic beauty and cultural insights.
12. 4-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
This extended trip takes you through Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, including Neist Point, Eilean Donan Castle, and Old Man Storr. Staying in three-star accommodations with breakfast, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience.
Rated 5.0/5 from 188 reviews, guests love the expert driver-guides like Robert who share both history and personal stories. The small group size keeps it intimate, with plenty of time for photos and exploration.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a deep dive into Scotland’s scenic highlights over several days with comfortable lodging.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Edinburgh
When deciding between these options, consider your interest level and available time. For history buffs or castle lovers, the Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour offers a compact, engaging experience. If you’re into ghost stories and spooky atmospheres, the Underground Vaults Ghost Tour is a hit.
For scenic day trips, the Highland Tours and multi-day adventures like the Isle of Skye give you a taste of wild landscapes and film-famous sights. Budget, activity level, and interest in local culture or food should guide your choice.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on popular excursions like the Food Tour or Private Highland trip.
Final Words
Edinburgh offers a wide array of tours that suit every traveler—from history lovers and ghost hunters to scenic explorers and foodies. If you want a quick, informative overview, the castle tours are unbeatable. For those craving drama and mystery, the underground vaults are perfect. And if exploring the Highlands is your dream, the journey options range from single-day excursions to immersive multi-day adventures.
Whatever your interests, early booking will help you get the best times and availability. Take a moment to match your travel style with these carefully curated experiences and prepare for a truly Scottish adventure.