img0 img1img2img3img4
Left Arrow
Right Arrow
img1
img2
img3
img4
Rating Star

Viator Rating : 5 (5478 reviews)

Location Icon Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Skip-the-Line Entry & Guided Walk

Clock

90

Overview

Experience Intelligence

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

FAQs

Location

Overview

Quotes Logo Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket invites visitors to explore Scotland's rich history. This walking tour takes everyone to one of Scotland’s most popular spots where stories of kings, queens, and bloody battles come to life.

The journey begins on the Royal Mile before heading to Edinburgh Castle. Hear about the castle's start and the many times it was attacked. Once inside, a guide will lead through the fortress, sharing interesting stories. Key attractions include the historic Stirling Castle, museums, prisons, and the Chapel of Saint Margaret. Visitors also see the National Monument and the Great Hall. (Note: the entire tour is outdoors; buildings are not accessible).

The tour includes entrance tickets and a guided experience of Edinburgh Castle. It does not include tips and does not allow pets, except for guide dogs. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Explore Edinburgh Castle: Discover the secrets and stories of this famous Scottish fortress.

Highlight Icon

Skip the Line Entry: Save time and avoid long queues with pre-booked tickets.

Highlight Icon

Expert Guided Tour: Learn from a knowledgeable guide about the castle's history.

Highlight Icon

Walk the Royal Mile: Start the journey on Edinburgh's historic and famous street.

Sentiment Analysis

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved the guide's stories and knowledge.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Visitors appreciated the skip-the-line access that saved time.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed learning about Scottish history in a fun way.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Some reviewers highlighted the beautiful views from the castle.

  • Negative Highlight Icon A few found it crowded, making it hard to hear the guide.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some wished there was more time inside the castle to explore on their own.

The Journey

1

Stirling Castle

Step back in time at Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant fortresses. For 1 hour and 10 minutes, explore the opulent Royal Palace, once home to Mary Queen of Scots, and marvel at the grandeur of the 16th-century Great Hall, where lavish feasts and pivotal events unfolded. After your guided tour, immerse yourself further within its walls until closing time. Witness the iconic Stirling Heads, intricate carved oak portraits of royalty and courtiers, and absorb the panoramic views from the ramparts, offering a commanding vista of the surrounding landscape and battlefields that shaped Scotland's destiny. Stirling Castle is not just a castle; it's a journey into the heart of Scottish history.

Know Before You Go

This tour includes entrance fees and a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. Gratuities are not included. Pets are not allowed, with the exception of guide dogs. Make sure to meet your guide at the designated meeting point on the Royal Mile for the start of your historical journey.

Hot Tip

Many reviewers suggest arriving a bit early to the meeting point to get a good spot in the group and be able to hear the guide clearly. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as there is a good bit of walking involved!

Review Summary

Customers generally say the Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour is informative and well-paced, with knowledgeable guides who bring the castle's history to life. Many appreciate the skip-the-line entry and the opportunity to explore the grounds afterward. Some negative feedback mentions the tour is not wheelchair accessible and that the guided portion remains outdoors, with no access to interior buildings during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team

From £37 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

More like this

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour - Make & Taste Chocolate!

Location Icon Edinburgh

£32

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour - Make & Taste Chocolate!

Top Product Chocolate Tours Dining Experiences

Rating Star 5.0 (4283 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 90 minutes

The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh offers a delightful adventure into the world of chocolate. This experience allows guests to see and touch the fruit of the chocolate tree, learning how the beans are transformed into delicious chocolate.

Participants can have fun making their own Scottish-themed chocolate to take home. Choices include creating a chocolate Greyfriar's Bobby, a chocolate Nessie, or even a chocolate Edinburgh Castle! Next, visitors can explore the tasting room, which features a wide selection of chocolates from both Scottish and international chocolate makers. With over 30 varieties available, there's something for everyone, including Haggis chocolate, Japanese chocolate, and chilli chocolate.

Finally, guests wrap their delicious chocolates to take home, where they can enjoy them or give them as gifts. Chocolate samples are provided throughout the tour. Vegan or milk-free options are also available. The Chocolatarium is highly rated and this tour is suitable for adults and children aged 6+.

Details

Book Now

Highlands & Glenfinnan Viaduct Day Trip from Edinburgh

Location Icon Edinburgh

£50

Highlands & Glenfinnan Viaduct Day Trip from Edinburgh

Historical Tours Full-day Tours Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate

Rating Star 4.9 (4177 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 720 minutes

Full-Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Highlands from Edinburgh offers a magical journey through the iconic landscapes of Scotland, famed for their appearances in the Harry Potter and James Bond film series. This bus tour caters to movie buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable Scottish adventure.

Travelers can expect a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands, passing landmarks like Linlithgow Palace, the Kelpies, and Stirling Castle. The tour heads north through Glencoe, where the driver/guide will point out filming locations from the James Bond and Harry Potter franchises. A stop in the Fort William area for lunch precedes a short drive to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a highlight made famous by the Hogwarts Express scenes in the Harry Potter movies. There's a short walk to a viewpoint with views over Loch Shiel and the viaduct, in time for the Jacobite Steam train crossing (seasonal: April 7 to October 24, 2025). The return journey includes a relaxing drive through the Highland scenery and a stop in the historic town of Pitlochry, before returning to Edinburgh via the Forth Rail Bridge.

This experience includes a scenic tour through the Highlands with regular stops for photos and rest breaks and viewing the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (seasonal). It excludes food and drink and individual hotel pick-ups and drop-offs. Note that children under 5 are not permitted. Key tour stops include Callander, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Pitlochry. With an English-speaking driver guide and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, this full-day tour promises comfort and convenience.

Details

Book Now

Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

Location Icon Edinburgh

£52

Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

Top Product Short term availability Bus Tours

Rating Star 4.9 (3580 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 750 minutes

Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh takes travelers on a bus tour through Scotland's most iconic landscapes. This adventure is perfect for those wanting to see lochs and mountains, explore historical sites, and learn about Scottish culture, all in one day.

The tour visits famous places like Glencoe, where you can take photos of the Three Sisters mountains. The tour stops near Fort William before going into the Great Glen, where you can see Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The tour also visits Fort Augustus, a small village where people can take an optional boat trip on Loch Ness. Travelers will also visit Callander, Loch Tulla & Glen Orchy Viewpoint, Commando Memorial, Spean Bridge and Pitlochry.

This trip includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver. It includes stops at Loch Ness and photo and rest breaks. Food, drinks, admission fees and individual hotel pick-ups are not included. Children under 5 are not allowed and should bring ID to prove their age.

Details

Book Now

Celtic Park Stadium Tour: Walk in Legends' Footsteps

Location Icon Celtic Park

£18.5

Celtic Park Stadium Tour: Walk in Legends' Footsteps

Excellent Quality Seasonal Best Conversion

Rating Star 4.9 (3112 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 60 minutes

Guided Celtic Park Stadium Tour in Glasgow lets visitors soak up the history and feel the passion of this iconic stadium. This 60-minute guided tour takes fans behind the scenes at Celtic Park, offering a unique look at the home of the Celtic Football Club.

The tour allows fans to walk in the footsteps of legends, starting in the dressing room and proceeding down the tunnel to experience the atmosphere pitch side from the dugout. Key stops include Celtic Park itself, the Kerrydale/Number 7 Entrance, and the Sports Bar. During the tour, a local guide shares insights and stories about the club's rich history and achievements.

What's included is a professional guide and tour escort. What's excluded are gratuities and transportation to/from attractions. This experience offers an in-depth look at one of soccer's most storied venues.

Details

Book Now

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Skip-the-Line & History

Location Icon Edinburgh

£38

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Skip-the-Line & History

Attractions & Museums Viator Experience Award 2024 Skip the line Tickets

Rating Star 4.9 (5211 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 90 minutes

The Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English lets visitors jump the line and explore Scotland's famous castle. This walking tour is great for anyone who wants to learn about the castle's long history and see its important sights.

During the tour, expect to discover why Edinburgh Castle is important to Scotland's story. The tour guide will share stories about the castle's past, covering 3,000 years of history. See where kings and queens lived and hear about battles that changed Scotland.

The tour includes a local guide and entry fees to the castle. Gratuities are not included. This experience will start at 192 High Street, by the statue of Adam Smith.

Details

Book Now

Edinburgh Harry Potter Locations Tour: Guided Magic!

Location Icon Edinburgh

£14

Edinburgh Harry Potter Locations Tour: Guided Magic!

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Viator Plus Walking Tours

Rating Star 4.9 (4209 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 120 minutes

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh takes people on a fun walk around Edinburgh. This tour is perfect for Harry Potter fans of all ages.

Walk where the actors walked and see the places that gave ideas to the movies and books. Your guide knows everything about Harry Potter and will test your knowledge with games and trivia. You might even win a prize!

See Edinburgh Castle and other famous spots that helped create the magical world of Harry Potter. This tour includes a professional guide to show the way. It does not include tips, food, drinks, or hotel transportation.

Details

Book Now

Nearby Events

Motionless In White Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow

Location Icon OVO Hydro

Feb 05

6:00 PM

Motionless In White Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow

Metal Nu-Metal Music

Motionless In White takes the stage at OVO Hydro in Glasgow, delivering a powerful metalcore concert experience for fans of metal and nu-metal. Known for their theatrical blend of gothic, industrial, and heavy metal, the band showcases tracks from their acclaimed recent album 'Scoring the End of the World,' cementing their reputation as one of the genre’s leading acts.
Formed in Scranton, Pennsylvania in 2004, Motionless In White has evolved into an influential force with chart-topping albums like 'Reincarnate' and 'Graveyard Shift.' OVO Hydro, one of Scotland’s premier venues, provides the perfect setting to witness their intense live performance, combining high production values and an electric atmosphere for metal enthusiasts.

Details

Book Now

Rob Beckett: Giraffe at Kings Theatre Glasgow

Location Icon Kings Theatre Glasgow

Apr 17

8:00 PM

Rob Beckett: Giraffe at Kings Theatre Glasgow

Comedy Arts & Theatre

Rob Beckett brings his latest stand-up show 'Giraffe' to Kings Theatre Glasgow, delivering his signature blend of sharp wit, infectious energy, and relatable storytelling. Known for his dynamic stage presence and candid takes on modern life, Beckett is currently touring the UK with this highly anticipated show, which has already drawn acclaim for its laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt observations.
Rob Beckett has become a household name through his TV appearances on shows like '8 Out of 10 Cats', 'Taskmaster', and his podcast 'Parenting Hell'. Kings Theatre Glasgow, a historic venue renowned for its elegant architecture and intimate atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for Beckett’s engaging performance, making this a must-see event for comedy fans.

Details

Book Now

James Arthur Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow 2026

Location Icon OVO Hydro

Feb 04

6:30 PM

James Arthur Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow 2026

Rock Alternative Rock Music

James Arthur brings his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics to OVO Hydro in Glasgow, delivering a powerful live experience that showcases his latest music and fan-favorite hits. Known for his chart-topping singles like 'Say You Won't Let Go' and 'Impossible', Arthur continues to captivate audiences with his blend of pop and alternative rock, making this concert a must-see for music lovers.

With a career marked by resilience and artistic growth, James Arthur has become a prominent figure in contemporary British music. OVO Hydro, one of the UK’s most iconic arenas, offers a world-class setting for unforgettable live performances, ensuring fans get the best possible experience.

Details

Book Now

Elvana Live at Barrowland Ballroom Glasgow

Location Icon Barrowland Ballroom

Feb 14

7:00 PM

Elvana Live at Barrowland Ballroom Glasgow

Music

ELVANA: Elvis Fronted Nirvana brings a unique tribute concert to Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow's iconic music venue renowned for its superb acoustics and historic sprung dance floor. Combining the spirit of Elvis Presley with the raw energy of Nirvana, ELVANA delivers a high-energy musical experience that captivates both rock and roll and grunge fans alike.
ELVANA's performance at Barrowland Ballroom pays homage to two legendary music icons with careful musicianship and vibrant stage presence. Known for its intimate 1,900-capacity setting, Barrowland Ballroom has been a cornerstone of Glasgow’s live music scene since 1960, cherished for its exceptional sound quality and nostalgic atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for this compelling tribute show.

Details

Book Now

Man In the Mirror Live at Alhambra Theatre

Location Icon Alhambra Theatre

Apr 11

7:30 PM

Man In the Mirror Live at Alhambra Theatre

Music

Man In the Mirror brings their captivating music performance to the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline, delivering an evening of soul-stirring hits and dynamic energy that celebrates the timeless power of reflection and rhythm. This show promises an intimate yet powerful experience, showcasing the artist's signature blend of pop anthems and heartfelt storytelling that has earned a dedicated following.

Man In the Mirror stands out for their innovative takes on classic influences, creating music that resonates across generations with themes of self-discovery and transformation. The Alhambra Theatre, a historic 1922 venue recently refurbished for live performances, offers an atmospheric setting with its grand stage and flexible spaces.[1][2][5]

Details

Book Now

Michael Starring Ben Live at Carlisle Sands Centre

Location Icon Carlisle Sands Centre

Jan 30

7:30 PM

Michael Starring Ben Live at Carlisle Sands Centre

Music

Michael Starring Ben brings the UK's ultimate Michael Jackson tribute show to Carlisle Sands Centre, delivering an electrifying live music experience that immerses audiences in the magic of the King of Pop. Led by Ben Bowman, renowned for his uncanny vocal and dance tribute, the show features iconic hits and high-energy performances that capture Michael Jackson’s artistry with precision and passion.
Ben Bowman has devoted over a decade to perfecting his craft, backed by a talented band and dancers who together create a powerful homage to Jackson’s legacy. Carlisle Sands Centre, known for hosting vibrant live entertainment, provides the perfect setting for this engaging concert celebrating timeless music and unforgettable showmanship.

Details

Book Now

The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Glasgow

Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Glasgow From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Rock in Glasgow. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.

View Glasgow Activities