Viator Rating : 5 (881 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.8/10 (Solid Experience)
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile Tour: Tickets Included
135
Overview
The Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile Walking Tour offers a captivating journey through Scotland's historic capital. This walking tour explores the famous Royal Mile and includes entry to Edinburgh Castle, offering a deep dive into Scottish history and culture.
Walk the Royal Mile's ancient, cobbled streets, where the tour guide shares exciting stories of Scotland’s past, pointing out landmarks like St. Giles' Cathedral, the colorful Victoria Street, and the lively Grassmarket. Then, step inside Edinburgh Castle to uncover its rich history and see the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Great Hall, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the city's oldest building. Hear dramatic tales of Mary, Queen of Scots, and experience the firing of the One O’Clock Gun.
This tour includes a local guide and entrance ticket to Edinburgh Castle for a guided tour, as well as a guided tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile highlights. Gratuities are not included. Key stops include the Royal Mile, Closes and Mercat Cross, St. Giles Cathedral & West Parliament Square, Heart of Midlothian & Makars' Court, Victoria Street, Grassmarket, Castle Esplanade & The Hub, and Edinburgh Castle. With an expert guide, this experience will allow visitors to get the most out of Edinburgh's history. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Explore the Royal Mile: Walk the historic Royal Mile and see iconic landmarks.
Visit Edinburgh Castle: Get entry and a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle.
Discover Scottish History: Learn fascinating stories of Scotland’s past from your guide.
See the Crown Jewels: View the Crown Jewels of Scotland inside Edinburgh Castle.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the tour guides' knowledge and enthusiasm.
-
Many reviewers appreciated the skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle.
-
Visitors enjoyed the stories and historical insights shared during the walking tour.
-
The tour provides a comprehensive overview of Edinburgh's Old Town and Royal Mile.
Some found the tour pace to be a bit fast.
-
A few reviewers mentioned that the castle can get crowded.
The Journey
Royal Mile
Begin your Edinburgh adventure on the Royal Mile, the historic thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Immerse yourself in the tales of Old Town as your guide introduces you to the city's captivating past. Explore the vibrant atmosphere, where medieval history blends seamlessly with modern Edinburgh.
Closes and Mercat Cross
Venture into the intriguing 'closes' – narrow alleyways that branch off the Royal Mile, each whispering tales of Edinburgh's past. Stop at the Mercat Cross, once a hub for public announcements and even punishments, and spot the unicorn that sits atop, a symbol of Scotland.
St. Giles Cathedral & West Parliament Square
Stand in awe before St. Giles' Cathedral, the High Kirk of Edinburgh, where you'll uncover the fascinating history of Presbyterianism in Scotland and admire the cathedral's stunning architecture. Continue to West Parliament Square and reflect on the pivotal Act of Union, a landmark moment in British history.
Heart of Midlothian & Makars' Court
Continue your walk on the Royal Mile to the Heart of Midlothian, a mosaic marking the site of the Old Tolbooth prison – a place of both dread and historical significance. Just off the Royal Mile, enter Makars' Court, a literary haven where you'll celebrate Scotland's literary giants, from Robert Burns to Sir Walter Scott, with the Writer’s Museum providing a stunning backdrop.
Victoria Street
Descend to Victoria Street, a vibrant, curved street renowned as one of the Old Town's most picturesque locations. Delight in the quirky shops and colourful facades that line this enchanting street, which is rumored to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.
Grassmarket
Arrive at the Grassmarket, a lively plaza known for its pubs and vibrant atmosphere, but also shadowed by a dark history of public executions. Imagine the bustling market days and the sombre events that once unfolded in this iconic Edinburgh location.
Castle Esplanade & The Hub
Climb towards the Castle Esplanade, taking in the imposing silhouette of The Hub, a distinctive landmark. On the Esplanade, immerse yourself in panoramic city views and discover the stage for the spectacular Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an unforgettable cultural experience.
Edinburgh Castle
Enter the historic Edinburgh Castle, a fortress perched atop an ancient volcano. Dive into the captivating history of Scottish royalty, epic battles, and dramatic sieges. After the guided tour, explore the castle's depths at your own pace, uncovering its hidden secrets and breathtaking views.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a local tour guide, entrance ticket to Edinburgh Castle, a guided tour inside, and a guided tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile highlights. Gratuities are not included. Make sure to meet your guide at the designated meeting point to begin your historical journey through Edinburgh.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this tour involves a good amount of walking on cobblestone streets. Also, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season, and arrive early to make the most of your time at Edinburgh Castle.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour highly engaging with knowledgeable guides who bring Scotland's history to life through stories of Mary Queen of Scots and castle highlights like the Crown Jewels and One O'Clock Gun. Many praise the efficient inclusion of castle entry and Royal Mile walk, though some note challenges with steep paths and steps limiting accessibility for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Edinburgh
£81
Edinburgh Castle & City: Small Group Walking Tour
4.9
(673 reviews)
Duration: 300
minutes
Edinburgh Full Day Walking Tour with Castle Included - Small Group, invites guests to discover the heart of Scotland's capital on foot. This walking tour is designed for those eager to soak in Edinburgh's rich history and culture in a single day.
Visitors can expect to explore iconic landmarks such as Charlotte Square, the Georgian House, and the scenic Princes Street Gardens. The tour also includes a visit to the Scottish National Gallery, a stroll along the historic Royal Mile, and a chance to see the Mercat Cross and St. Giles' Cathedral. Not forgetting the poignant Heart of Midlothian, the intriguing Closes of the Royal Mile, the touching Greyfriars Bobby Statue, the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, the lively Grassmarket, and the charming Victoria Street, Makars' Court, Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, and the majestic Edinburgh Castle.
The experience includes an Edinburgh Castle entrance ticket and guided tour, a local tour guide, and entrance to The Georgian House (from April 1, 2025). A guided tour of the Scottish National Gallery highlights is also included. Lunch and gratuities are not included.
Edinburgh
£42
Edinburgh Castle Tour: Kilted Guide & Skip-the-Line
5.0
(273 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Edinburgh Castle Tickets & Tour - Local Scottish Guide In a Kilt: Experience Edinburgh Castle like never before! This walking tour, led by a local Scottish guide in traditional Highland dress, offers an immersive journey into Scotland's rich history. Explore the iconic fortress, perched atop Castle Rock, and delve into the stories of kings, queens, and epic battles.
What to Expect: Discover the secrets of Edinburgh Castle. The tour visits key sites, including the Crown Jewels and St. Margaret’s Chapel. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Your guide will bring history to life with engaging storytelling and local insights. You'll also skip the line to save time and avoid the crowds.
This tour includes a professional guide and admission ticket. It excludes gratuities. Book now for an unforgettable walk through history with a true Scotsman!
Edinburgh
£119
Savor Edinburgh: A Culinary Walking Tour of Scotland's Capital
5.0
(127 reviews)
Edinburgh Traditional Food Tour offers an authentic taste of Scotland, visiting local restaurants and unique stops. Experienced guides provide personalized tours catering to dietary needs (excluding vegan). Enjoy superior-quality food, avoid tourist traps, and discover the best dining spots in Edinburgh. A flavorful and filling cultural experience.
Southern Scotland
£60
Dumfries White Water Tubing: Rapids Adventure!
5.0
(6 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Dumfries White Water Tubing Adventure offers an adrenaline-pumping ride through Galloway's stunning landscapes. This exciting experience invites thrill-seekers to grab a tube and navigate the river's thrilling rapids, twists, and turns.
Participants will begin with a safety briefing and equipment introduction before plunging into fast-moving currents under the guidance of experienced professionals. They'll speed down natural chutes, tackle towering waves, and even have the chance to leap from rocks for an added challenge. No previous experience is needed; just a sense of adventure! This tour combines excitement with unforgettable scenery, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an adrenaline rush.
The experience includes a full 5mm wetsuit, neoprene jacket and socks, a safety helmet, a buoyancy aid, a river tube, and even photos of the trip, ensuring both safety and lasting memories. With expert guides leading the way, participants can relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while experiencing the thrill of whitewater tubing.
Southern Scotland
£55
Dumfries River Tubing: Thrills & Nature Escape!
5.0
(3 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Dumfries River Tubing Adventure offers a unique way to experience the beauty and excitement of the river. This isn't just a simple float; it's a guided journey that combines thrilling rapids with peaceful stretches of water.
Led by local expert guides, participants will navigate the river in sturdy tubes, receiving tips on steering and safety. The adventure includes drifting through calm waters, encountering bouncy rapids, and taking in scenic views of lush riverbanks and local wildlife. No prior experience is needed, making it perfect for both adrenaline seekers and those looking to relax in nature.
Participants can expect a memorable blend of excitement and relaxation, sharing laughter and fun with fellow adventurers. The experience provides all necessary equipment, including a wetsuit, jacket, helmet, and buoyancy aid, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time on the water.
Edinburgh
£32
Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour - Make & Taste Chocolate!
5.0
(4289 reviews)
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+.
Nearby Events
Queens Hall Edinburgh
Feb 14
7:30 PMTwo Mr P's in a Podcast Live at Queens Hall Edinburgh
Two Mr Ps in a Podcast Live presents "Let That Be A Lesson..." at Queens Hall Edinburgh, an engaging live comedy and theatre event blending storytelling with sharp observations about education and family life. Known for their humorous takes on teaching and parenting, Two Mr Ps continue to expand their devoted fan base with their witty and relatable performances.
Two Mr Ps in a Podcast Live have built a strong presence through their popular podcast, offering candid insights and hilarious anecdotes that resonate widely. Queens Hall Edinburgh, renowned for its excellent acoustics and rich cultural programming, provides an intimate and atmospheric setting, enhancing the live experience for audiences seeking smart, heartfelt entertainment.
Pavilion Theatre Glasgow
Mar 05
7:30 PMFoil Arms & Hog Skittish Comedy Show Glasgow Tickets
Foil Arms & Hog bring their acclaimed comedy show Skittish to the Pavilion Theatre Glasgow, promising an evening of sharp, observational sketch comedy. This Irish trio, known for their weekly sketches and live performances worldwide, offer a unique blend of topical humor and relatable narratives that engage diverse audiences.
Renowned for their innovative and charming style, Foil Arms & Hog have built a reputation since 2009 with sold-out tours and festival success, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow, a historic arts venue noted for its intimate atmosphere and quality productions, provides the perfect setting for this dynamic live show.
OVO Hydro
Mar 13
Country To Country Glasgow Tickets | Three Day Weekend Pass
Country To Country returns to the OVO Hydro in Glasgow for an electrifying three-day weekend of world-class country music. Featuring headline acts like Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, and Zach Top, the festival delivers a stellar lineup of both established stars and emerging talent, making it a must-attend event for country music fans.
Since its inception in 2013, Country To Country has grown to become the premier country music festival in Europe, celebrated for bringing the best of Nashville and beyond to UK stages. The OVO Hydro, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for this immersive musical experience.
Kings Theatre Glasgow
Apr 17
8:00 PMRob Beckett: Giraffe at Kings Theatre Glasgow
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.
Alhambra Theatre
Feb 28
7:30 PMThe Rocket Man Tribute Elton John Tickets Dunfermline
The Rocket Man - a Tribute To Elton John offers a captivating tribute concert held at the historic Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline. This live music event celebrates the iconic music and legacy of Elton John, featuring dynamic performances that resonate with fans old and new. The Rocket Man tribute band has gained acclaim for delivering authentic renditions of Elton John's greatest hits, providing an engaging and nostalgic experience for audiences.
The Alhambra Theatre, a distinguished entertainment venue dating back to 1922, is renowned for its unique atmosphere and versatility, hosting top artists and diverse performances. With a seating capacity of up to 2,100, it stands as a cultural landmark in Dunfermline, ensuring every show is memorable in this beautifully restored setting.
Kings Theatre Glasgow
Apr 23
6:30 PMDiversity Live: Soul at Kings Theatre Glasgow
Diversity Soul at Kings Theatre Glasgow is a theatrical dance show by the UK’s chart-topping troupe Diversity that blends storytelling, choreography and theatrical production to probe humanity in the AI age, offering an immersive stage experience that highlights the group's new concept tour SOUL[6][7]. The production showcases Diversity’s signature blend of precision street dance, theatrical staging and narrative choreography while promoting material from their current Soul tour and recent creative direction under Ashley Banjo[2][6].
.Diversity rose to prominence after winning Britain’s Got Talent and have since become one of the UK’s most successful dance companies, known for high-energy routines, inventive group formations and emotional storytelling; reviewers and tour listings emphasize the group’s strong theatrical ambitions on the Soul tour[2][6]. Kings Theatre Glasgow, a historic West End venue, provides ornate auditorium seating and a theatrical setting suited to the show’s dramatic staging[6].
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