Walk the streets where Edinburgh’s thinkers reshaped modern ideas. This GPS audio tour guides you between Old Town grit and New Town order while telling the stories behind statues, museums and scientific breakthroughs.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out beneath the shadow of St Giles' spire and the city's stonework seems to keep time with footsteps—cobbles creak, carriage lanes narrow, and voices of the past tug at the air. This self-guided GPS audio tour threads the Royal Mile and the refined grids of the New Town, placing David Hume, Adam Smith, James Hutton and Walter Scott where they lived and argued.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.25 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking on uneven pavement for a couple of hours.
Wildlife
History
Edinburgh’s New Town was deliberately conceived in the late 18th century to relieve overcrowding in the Old Town and to embody Enlightenment ideals of order, light and civic improvement.
Conservation
The city manages footfall in sensitive historic areas—stick to paved paths, avoid climbing on monuments, and respect closed or conserved sites to protect fabric and archaeology.
Reserve your spot on the Enlightenment in Edinburgh: A Self-Guided Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download for offline use
Save audio, maps and geodata before you head out to avoid using mobile data and ensure GPS triggers work in narrow streets.
Charge and bring a battery pack
The tour runs for roughly two hours and GPS/audio use drains phones quickly—carry a small power bank.
Wear grippy shoes
Cobblestones and short flights of steps are frequent; low-traction shoes increase comfort and safety.
Allow time for detours
Museums and monuments are close to the route—budget extra time if you plan to enter Surgeons' Hall or university quads.
Smartphone with GPS
Runs the audio and triggers location-based comments—download content for offline use.
Headphones or earbuds
Improves audio clarity and lets you hear narration in busy streets.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides traction and comfort on cobbles and short stair sections.
Light rain jacket
Scotland’s weather can change quickly; a packable jacket keeps you moving during showers.
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