Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour by Tourschottland
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle uneven cobbles and hill climbs comfortably.
Overview
Step into Edinburgh’s medieval heart with Tourschottland’s private walking tour. Discover ancient graveyards, majestic churches, and the Royal Mile’s riveting history led by an accredited expert.
Private Walking Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town
Top seller • 4 hours • Discover the hidden secrets of Edinburgh!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating private walking tour through Edinburgh's medieval heart, exploring the Royal Mile and its rich history. Discover ancient graveyards, majestic churches, and the former Parliament Hall. Experience the charm of the Old Town and the allure of Greyfriars Kirkyard, all while guided by an accredited expert.
Duration: 4 hours Restrictions: not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs
Come and experience the hidden secrets of this beautiful medieval city on a private walking tour. Discover the numerous highlights along the Royal Mile and relive the Middle Ages!
Highlights
- Walk through Edinburgh's Georgian New Town en route to the Old Town
- Visit ancient graveyards and churches and be moved by stories of courage and sacrifice, grandeur and poverty.
- Mon-Fri visit the amazing former Parliament Hall, now used by the legal profession
- Visit St Giles cathedral
- Discover the courtyard from where coaches used to transport travelers down to London to Scotland Yard in London
- Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard - famous for Harry Potter fans
- Visit the Royal Museum of Scotland
- Stroll down the Royal Mile, past the new Scottish Parliament and arrive at the Royal Palace of Holyrood House
Includes
- Private tour with qualified , accredited STGA Tourist Guide
- Visit to Parliament Hall (not at weekends)
Excludes
- Voluntary admission fee to St Giles
- Additional food and drink, items of a personal nature, and tips / gratuities for your guide
Important to Know
- Tour is available in English or German
- This is a private tour for your group only
- Moderate fitness is required - steep hills!
- Please wear solid walking shoes and bring a rain jacket.
Meeting Point
Guide will either meet customers at their CITY CENTRE hotel or in front of the Royal Museum of Scotland, Chambers St, EH1 1JF Please note that I do not meet cruise ship clients, who book walking tours, at the port.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy walking shoes
The route includes cobblestones and steep hills; solid footwear ensures comfort and safety.
Bring a rain jacket
Scottish weather can be unpredictable—pack waterproof gear to stay dry during the tour.
Arrive early to historic sites
Some locations like Parliament Hall close on weekends—plan weekday visits to access all highlights.
Prepare for moderate physical activity
The walking tour covers uneven terrain and inclines; a reasonable fitness level is needed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban pigeons famed throughout Edinburgh
- Occasional sightings of red squirrels in nearby parklands
History
Edinburgh’s Old Town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval city centers, shaped by events from the Reformation to the Enlightenment.
Conservation
Tourschottland promotes responsible tourism by limiting group sizes and encouraging guests to respect historical sites and nearby green spaces.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Supports feet on cobbled streets and steep gradients.
Light rain jacket
Protects against Scotland’s unpredictable rain showers.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the four-hour tour.
summer|null specific
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures during the walk.
spring|fall|winter specific