Viator Rating : 5 (362 reviews)
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle Tour: Tickets, Map & Royal Secrets
90
Overview
Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide lets visitors explore the famous Edinburgh Castle with a local expert. This walking tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn about Scotland's rich past. The tour guide will lead through the ancient castle grounds. See Hospital Square and the Western Panorama with its amazing views.
Visitors will see the One o'Clock Gun, Mons Meg, and Crown Square. The guide shares true stories about the people who shaped the Castle, including tales of banquets, raids, and royal drama. After the tour, take time to explore the museums and exhibits.
This experience includes a map of Edinburgh Castle, a professional local guide, and an entry ticket. It starts at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade and goes through the Edinburgh Castle Fortress, Hawkhill, St. Margaret's Chapel, Crown Square & The Royal Palace, and Argyle Battery. Gratuities are not included. With excellent ratings and reviews, this curated tour is a top choice for experiencing Edinburgh Castle. 
Highlights
Skip the Line: Get fast-track entry to Edinburgh Castle.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about the castle's history from a local professional.
See the Crown Jewels: Admire the Scottish Crown Jewels and other treasures.
Explore at Your Own Pace: Enjoy free time after the tour to visit museums and exhibits.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved hearing interesting stories from the knowledgeable guides.
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Many visitors appreciated skipping the long ticket lines.
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People enjoyed the chance to explore the castle on their own after the guided tour.
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The tour provides a great overview of the castle's history and key sights.
Some customers found it difficult to hear the guide in crowded areas.
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A few visitors wished the tour had more time inside specific buildings.
The Journey
Meeting Point
Begin your Edinburgh Castle experience at our designated meeting point, the launchpad for an immersive historical adventure. Here, you'll be checked in and introduced to the tour, setting the stage for an exploration that will transport you through centuries of Scottish history. This is where the narrative of the castle begins to unfold before you ascend towards its formidable walls.
Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
The Esplanade offers your first breathtaking panorama of Edinburgh Castle. Your guide will delve into the volcanic geology shaping this iconic landmark and share stories of the area's earliest settlers. Discover the grandeur of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an annual spectacle of music and precision that embodies Scottish pride and tradition. The Esplanade is more than a viewpoint; it's a gateway to understanding the castle's strategic and cultural importance.
Edinburgh Castle Fortress
Step inside the historic fortress of Edinburgh Castle, where centuries of Scottish history come to life. Explore its formidable walls, ancient halls, and hidden chambers, each echoing with tales of royalty, battles, and intrigue. As you wander through this imposing structure, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for its strategic significance and its enduring role in shaping Scotland's identity.
One O'Clock Gun
Witness Edinburgh's famous time signal, the One O'Clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861. Originally intended to allow ships in the Firth of Forth to set their maritime clocks, this daily event is now a beloved Edinburgh institution. The boom reverberates across the city, a reminder of the castle's ongoing connection to the city's daily life.
Hawkhill
Ascend Hawkhill within Edinburgh Castle, where history resonates in every stone. Uncover stories of the people who live within the castle walls today, and learn about the countless prisoners held captive here throughout the ages. Feel the weight of history as you climb, imagining the lives of those who were confined within these formidable walls.
St. Margaret's Chapel
Discover Edinburgh's oldest building, St. Margaret's Chapel, nestled within the Royal Quarters. Learn about the life of St. Margaret and how this sacred space has endured for centuries. Marvel at its simple yet profound architecture, a testament to faith and resilience. This chapel offers a moment of serenity amidst the grandeur of the castle.
Crown Square & The Royal Palace
Enter Crown Square, the beating heart of Edinburgh Castle, and discover the Royal Palace, historic home to the Stuart monarchs. Explore the opulent chambers and learn about the lives of its many royal residents. Witness the dazzling Scottish Crown Jewels, symbols of Scottish sovereignty and power, a highlight of any visit to the castle. This is where history, majesty, and national pride converge.
Argyle Battery
Enter Edinburgh Castle through the gatehouse and arrive on the Argyle Battery, where panoramic views to the north await. Discover the castle's historic defenses and strategic importance while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Imagine the soldiers who once manned these ramparts, defending the castle and the city from invaders. The Argyle Battery offers a unique perspective on the castle's military past.
Know Before You Go
This Edinburgh Castle tour includes a map, a professional local guide, and your entry ticket. Gratuities are not included. The meeting point is at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
Hot Tip
Real reviews suggest arriving at the meeting point a little early, especially during peak season. This ensures that the experience starts smoothly and you have enough time to meet the group before the tour begins. Also, wear comfortable shoes!
Review Summary
Customers generally say that the Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour offers a highly engaging and informative experience with knowledgeable and entertaining guides who keep visitors, including families, interested. Positive feedback frequently mentions the skip-the-line access and the opportunity to explore the castle freely after the tour. Some travelers note that the historical stories and panoramic castle views are highlights. On the downside, a few mention that the tour requires quite a bit of walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces, making it challenging for those with mobility issues, and that the meeting point is away from the castle entrance, which can be confusing for first-timers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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