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Edinburgh Free Tour

The best introduction to edinburgh, secure your space now.

The best-rated Edinburgh Free Walking Tour

  • 10am, 11am & 1 pm
  • 154 High Street (Royal Mile)

No card info required

Free Walking Tour of Edinburgh

No trip to Scotland is complete without visiting Edinburgh, its inspiring capital, a cosmopolitan town teeming with genius and culture. On this 2 hours FREE Tour your expert guide will show you the most attractive spots of this seductive city.

Wonderful walking tour

"What a wonderful walking tour with Graeme. A beautiful summer day and an extremely engaging guide. Would definitely book again next time I visit Edinburgh."

Tricia Butterfield

Google (July 23)

It was worth every second

"I did three walking tours with City Explorers and it was worth every second! Definitely recommended. Ashlyn, Emma and Dr Rory were super fun and highly informative."

Sanyukta Desai

Highly recommended!!

"We had a PHENOMENAL ghost tour with Emma! We also had a AMAZING day time walking tour with Glen. Both guides were funny, knowledgeable, and friendly. Could not recommend these tours enough!!!"

Katie Cummings

Free Walking Tour of the Old Town

"Wonderful intro giving us enough info about where to spend our time as well as some great restaurant recommendations. Kenny was amusing, knowledgeable and easy to listen to so I highly recommend this walk."

Annelise Giddings

Google (June 23)

Greyfriars Bobby statue in Edinburgh's Old Town

Tour Description

The FREE Walking Tour starts every day at 10 am, 11 am and 1 pm on The Royal Mile , just in front of a bar called Copper Still (154 High Street).

We believe that everyone, no matter what is one's budget should be able to experience and enjoy what Edinburgh has to offer and we also believe that the price of a tour should correlate with your budget and how much you enjoyed it.

Our Edinburgh FREE Walking Tours are both informative and fun and offer something for everyone.

To ensure the highest quality of our Free Tours, groups of 15 or more people should book a Private Tour .

If you are arranging a booking for a School Group , please book a Private Tour .

This will allow us to give you a more personalized experience. Thanks for your understanding!

Secure your space now for the Edinburgh Free Tour!

Showing up is fine in most cases. However, you will have priority with a booking if tours reach their capacity.

Meeting Point

The FREE Tour starts on The Royal Mile just in front of a bar called Copper Still (154 High Street).

Look for the yellow umbrellas!

Related tours in edinburgh.

Free Ghost Tour

Free Ghost Tour

Every night @ 7pm

Duration: 1.5 hours

Discover the ghostly tales and sinister stories that will get you back to the terrifying past of old Edinburgh.

Free Harry Potter Tour

Free Harry Potter Tour

Every day @ 2pm

Explore the real people and places that inspired JK Rowling to create the Universe of Harry Potter.

Free New Town Tour

Free New Town Tour

Saturday @ 2pm

Duration: 2 hours

Discover the finest part of town and the role Edinburgh played as a center of the Enlightment in Europe.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Every day @ 10am, 12.15pm & 1.30pm

Get the best value of your visit to Edinburgh Castle and jump the queue with our skip-the-line tickets.

Edinburgh Pub Crawl

Fri & Sat @ 8pm

Duration: 4.5 hours

Meet amazing people from all over the world and enjoy Edinburgh nightlife at its best 7 nights a week.

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Useful information.

Travel tips you need to know before visiting Edinburgh.

Sightseeing

Discover the most unmissable attractions in Edinburgh.

Things to do

The ultimate guide to things to do in Edinburgh.

Food and drink

Edinburgh's best restaurants, bars and pubs.

Where to stay

Find out the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

Discover how to travel around Edinburgh.

Address 154 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1QS

Email [email protected]

Phone +44 (0) 7858 992030

Leave us a message

We will get in touch with you within 24 hours (most messages are answered within 2 hours during normal business times).

City Explorers WhatsApp

free tours edinburgh

Best things to do and see in Edinburgh

Free walking tour near edinburgh, others cities to visit after edinburgh, find other guruwalks in edinburgh, where are you traveling to.

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Discover Edinburgh with the best Tour Guides

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Best-rated Tours in Edinburgh

Choose the leading free walking tour company in scotland.

Edinburgh Free Tour

Edinburgh Free Tour

Every day @ 10am, 11am & 1pm

Duration: 2 hours

Explore the most fascinating spots of the amusing old city of Edinburgh.

Free Ghost Tour

Free Ghost Tour

Every night @ 7pm

Duration: 1.5 hours

Come to the FREE 1.5 hour Ghost Tour to discover the dark side of old Edinburgh.

Free Harry Potter Tour

Free Harry Potter Tour

Every day @ 2pm

Discover the relationship between Edinburgh and JK Rowling.

Free New Town Tour

Free New Town Tour

Learn about the greatest transformation of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Castle Tour

Every day @10am, 12.15pm & 1.30pm

Get the best value of your visit to Edinburgh Castle and skip-the-line tickets.

Edinburgh Pub Crawl

Fri & Sat @ 8pm

Duration: 5 hours

6 bars & clubs, 6 shots, free club entry. Edinburgh nightlife at its best!

Edinburgh Bike Tour

Edinburgh Bike Tour

Every day @ 11am

Duration: 3 hours

Your guide will take you through some of the most iconic spots of Edinburgh.

Loch Ness

1-day Loch Ness Tour

Every day @ 8am

Duration: 12.5 hours

Loch Ness, Glencoe, Inverness and the Highlands departing from Edinburgh.

Stirling

1-day Stirling Tour

Wed, Sat & Sun @ 9am

Duration: 9.75 hours

Stirling, Loch Lomond and a distillery departing from Edinburgh.

Scotland Tours

Scotland Tours

1-3 Day Tours of Scotland to the Highlands departing from Edinburgh.

Private Tour of Edinburgh

Private Tours

Enjoy a unique experience with a personal tour guide all around the city of Edinburgh.

Whisky Tour

Food & Drink Tours

Explore the best Food and Drink Tasting Tours in Edinburgh.

Meeting Point

All our FREE Tours start on The Royal Mile just in front of a bar called Copper Still (154 High Street).

Look for the yellow umbrellas!

Edinburgh travel guide, useful information.

Travel tips you need to know before visiting Edinburgh.

Sightseeing

Discover the most unmissable attractions in Edinburgh.

Things to do

The ultimate guide to things to do in Edinburgh.

Food and drink

Edinburgh's best restaurants, bars and pubs.

Where to stay

Find out the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

Discover how to travel around Edinburgh.

Address 154 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1QS

Email [email protected]

Phone +44 (0) 7858 992030

Leave us a message

We will get in touch with you within 24 hours (most messages are answered within 2 hours during normal business times).

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Edinburgh Free Tour

Edinburgh Free Tour

Discover edinburgh’s best attractions on our free walking tour. the old town of edinburgh has more than 3000 years of history and is one of the most beautiful cities in all of europe..

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Tour Description .

The Old Town of Edinburgh has more than 3000 years of history and today it is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, where great kings and queens once lived within its walls. We will explore the most iconic streets and alleys that inspired great writers and inventors.

We will talk about history, wars and notable figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

We will visit the cemetery which is renowned for the most paranormal activity in all of Scotland , where the restless dead do not forget their executioner, George Mackenzie.

We will also visit the most famous doggy in all of Scotland, Bobby.

A tour full of history and legends, a unique and incredible city, a magical and unpredictable route.

Are you going to miss it?

About free tours

It is totally free to book , but the guide greatly appreciates to be rewarded once the tour ends. Some people leave £10 and others £50 , pay what you think the tour deserves.)

You decide the price!

Itinerary .

We trust 100% in each of our professional guides, and each of them has their own unique, personal style to deliver the stories of the city. Therefore, their routes may vary slightly and cover different areas, but in most cases on the Edinburgh Free Walking Tour we will share with you:

  • Historical introduction to Edinburgh
  • Victoria Street
  • Grassmarket
  • Greyfriars Bobby
  • Mysteries about Harry Potter
  • Mackenzie and paranormal activity
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Writers Museum
  • St. Giles Cathedral
  • Public executions
  • Heart of Midlothian
  • Mercat Cross

Approximate time

The approximate duration of the tour is: 2h

Meeting Point .

351 High Street

Will meet at 351 High Street (Royal Mile), opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral with BLACK UMBRELLA

Would you prefer a Private Tour?

If you would like an experience tailored to you, we offer personalized packages with a variety of options. You can choose the duration of the tour, focus on specific aspects of the city’s history, and explore the locations that are of interest to you.

Private tour

Free Tour You decide the price!

What they think about this tour .

Karen caubergh 10 | 04 | 2023.

Ian was fabulous!! What an energy!

Andreia Pereira 09 | 04 | 2023

Fantastic tour! Walking with Ian for the most emblematic monuments of the city was really good! I highly recommend.

Ian Purdy 07 | 04 | 2023

We really enjoyed your informative and amusing tour. Thank you very much!

Aline Sousa 07 | 04 | 2023

I really enjoyed the tour e she’s great, I had an amazing time!! Greetings from Brazil :)

Liz Cooper 07 | 04 | 2023

This was one of the best tours we’ve ever been on! Jen was wonderful, and we appreciated all of her extra historical expertise.

Tierney Neville 07 | 04 | 2023

Sonia was an amazing tour guide. Really put the effort in to give us the best experience would totally recommend doing this tour it was incredible listening to the history behind Edinburgh in great depth!!

Jaume Marti 06 | 04 | 2023

João maria machado 05 | 04 | 2023, eduardo flores 01 | 04 | 2023.

Sarah's tour has been one of the best, more entertaining and interesting tours I've been in Europe. She not only focuses on traditional highlights, but really cares about sharing the good, fun and hard history of the city. You would be very lucky to have her as your tour guide. Thank you Sarah.

Maria Helena Lourenço 01 | 04 | 2023

Sarah is great! The tour was really interesting and Sarah showed us some special places, with great stories! Highly recommend it!

Elisabeth Angleitner 31 | 03 | 2023

Emma joughin 30 | 03 | 2023.

Fantastic tour by Jen, she really knows her history and is a great storyteller. I was captivated from start to finish, from ghost bagpipers and gruesome plague realities that aren’t that far from our own Covid experiences to grave robbers and evil kings (James VI) she told it all with humour and humility. THANK YOU JEN! - Emma, Melbourne

Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides Association

Guiding since 1947    Patron: Lord Provost of Edinburgh

Guiding since 1947 Patron: Lord Provost of Edinburgh

Come with us and explore Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile

Join us for a free walking tour along the royal mile – the heart of edinburgh's historic old town..

Photo: Dave Hitchborne

Our expert guides will take you to the hidden corners of this fascinating district: the closes and courtyards, the neuks and crannies – places that you might never discover on your own. We'll tell you about its history and especially about the characters and historical figures who have made Edinburgh what it is.

All our guides are local people who love our city and are only too pleased to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with you.

We offer the following options:

  • Free walking tours during August. These tours are open to everyone. They are genuinely free with no need to book in advance. Read more ... .
  • Custom walking tours for your organisation, group or family - at any time of the year. These tours, for which we make a small charge, can be customised to cover any special interests that you may have. Read more ... .
  • Illustrated talks. As well as our walks, we offer a programme of free illustrated talks during the Festival period. These talks cover various aspects of Edinburgh and Scottish history, and are given by experts in their fields. Read more ... .

If you find this site useful, please tell your friends:

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Home   |  About EFVGA   |  Privacy Policy   |  FAQ   |  Contact Us © Copyright EFVGA 2017 - 21. All rights reserved.

Printed from the Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides Association website Visit us at www.edinburghfestivalguides.org . © Copyright EFVGA 2017 - 23. All rights reserved.

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The best free walking tours and paid tours in Edinburgh. Personally verified by Walkative team.

Tours in edinburgh pay what you wish tours.

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What are the highlights of Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital is a place full of magic, castles and fascinating, sometimes chilling stories. It is also a city that for centuries has inspired artists – it was in Edinburgh that Arthur Conan Doyle created Sherlock Holmes and JK Rowling wrote most of the Harry Potter books. Edinburgh is a place full of fantastic attractions with something for everyone. Check out what to see in Edinburgh and join our free walking tour with a local guide!

Edinburgh – top attractions

The heart of mediaeval Edinburgh is Old Town, where you will find most of the most famous sights. Here you will find the symbol of Scotland – Edinburgh Castle, which is one of the largest and oldest buildings of its kind in the whole of the UK. In the Old Town you will also find Holyrood Palace, the Scottish residence of the British royal family, as well as St. Giles Cathedral dating from the 14th/15th century, which serves as the main church of the Church of Scotland. The most popular place to visit is the Royal Mile, the main street in the Old Town, which connects the two royal residences: Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. The statue of Bobby the dog at 34 George IV Bridge is also a popular site. It commemorates the 19th century skye terrier dog who, after his owner’s death, kept vigil at his grave for 14 years – until his own death.

Edinburgh is also home to, as local guides say, the world’s most haunted cemetery. We are talking about Greyfriars Kirkyard with the tomb of George MacKenzie, who was famous for torturing convicts and whose ghost is said to still haunt visitors to the necropolis until today. If you enjoy visiting museums be sure to head to the National Museum of Scotland, which has among its exhibits the famous Dolly the sheep. A treat for literature lovers is the Writers’ Museum, dedicated to the lives and works of three great Scottish authors: Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. If you’re keen to relax in nature, take a stroll to Princess Gardens, which is located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, perched on a volcanic rock. As you stroll through the park, look out for the statue of Wojtek the bear marching with a Polish soldier. The monument symbolises the journey of Polish soldiers fighting under General Anders during the Second World War. It was in Edinburgh Zoo that Corporal Wojtek completed his service and ‘retired’.

Free walking tour – discover Edinburgh with a local guide!

Not keen on sightseeing with a map in hand? Neither are we! For those looking for a passionate local guide, we invite you to take a free walking tour of Edinburgh. When you choose a free walking tour with Walkative!, you decide how much you pay for the tour, the commitment and the knowledge of your guide. Tours of this type do not have a predetermined price. Our free walking tour is the best way to explore Edinburgh and discover the secrets of this fascinating city. Such a tour is a perfect option for individual tourists as well as small groups of friends, families and couples. With Walkative! guides you will also visit other European capitals such as Berlin, Warsaw, Brussels, Madrid and Lisbon.

Check nearest tours

We had just one day in Wroclaw and a decision to join Walkative tours was the right one! These guys are amazing! Their stories are very informative, full of history, legends, funny jokes! They took us to all astonishing places of Wroclaw. Perfect for a day trip to this lovely city! Thank you, Lukasz and Matt for the brilliant tours!

Dawie’s tour was the best theatre in Paris as well as informative!!!! He is great – even in the rain. Do it.

My group really enjoyed the amount of history explained in the tour, it was a nice way to get a lot of information on several of the key sites in the center of Paris in a compact amount of time. Excellent for orientation and background. I would certainly do other tours in the future.

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Edinburgh Free Walking Tours

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Edinburgh Free Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Explore Edinburgh with the best-rated Tour Guides

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Free New Town Tour

Discover the great transformation of edinburgh, secure your space now.

Explore Edinburgh's first New Town

  • 154 High Street (Royal Mile)

No card info required

Free Walking Tour of the New Town

If you are keen to delve deeper into the history of Edinburgh, if you'd like to avoid its most touristed spots or if you want to discover its best kept secrets , you can not miss the Free New Town Tour.

"Graeme was excellent, very knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommended this tour of Edinburgh"

TripAdvisor (Nov. 20)

That was my first free tour

"Fraser the guide was really cool and knowledgeable and took us through the hidden stories of the amazing Edinburgh"

TripAdvisor (Oct. 20)

Excellent - tour guide was really good!

"So insightful on the tales of Scotland and it’s rich history. Our guide was truly a great storyteller."

Historic tour and ghost tour

"The pace of the tour was perfect and easy to follow. 1000% recommend these super friendly guides!"

Mjnanhekhan

Gardens in the Free New Town Tour

Tour Description

In the Free New Town Tour you'll discover all the secrets of one of the most historical neighbourhoods in Edinburgh, a declared Unesco heritage site, and fascinate yourself with the transformation experienced by one of Europe's leading cities in the Age of Enlightenment .

During the second half of the XVIII century, Edinburgh passed from being a dark, dirty and uncomfortable city to be a modern and open centre which welcomed some of the most brilliant minds of the European Enlightenment. In this Free Tour of its New Town you'll get to know how it managed to influence the today's world.

Take a walk through the most elegant area of Edinburgh, enjoy its gardens and parks, its incomparable views , and take advantage to take some of the best photos spots of the city. Discover the most interesting shops, pubs and restaurants of Edinburgh and appreciate a 100% Scottish experience.

To ensure the highest quality of our Free Tours, groups of more than 14 people should book a Private Tour .

If you are arranging a booking for a School Group , please book a Private Tour .

This will allow us to give you a more personalized experience. Thanks for your understanding!

Secure your space for the Free New Town Tour!

Showing up is fine in most cases. However, you will have priority with a booking if tours reach their capacity.

Meeting Point

The FREE New Town Tour starts on The Royal Mile, just in front of a bar called Copper Still (154 High Street).

Look for the yellow umbrellas!

Related tours in edinburgh.

Edinburgh Free Tour

Edinburgh Free Tour

Every day @ 10am, 11am & 1 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Get to see the most interesting and intriguing spots of the old city of Edinburgh guided by an engaging local.

Free Ghost Tour

Free Ghost Tour

Every night @ 7pm

Duration: 1.5 hours

Discover the ghostly tales and sinister stories that will get you back to the terrifying past of old Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Every day @ 10am, 12.15pm & 1.30pm

Get the best value of your visit to Edinburgh Castle and jump the queue with our skip-the-line tickets.

Free Harry Potter Tour

Free Harry Potter Tour

Every day @ 2pm

Explore the real people and places that inspired JK Rowling to create the Universe of Harry Potter.

Edinburgh Pub Crawl

Fri & Sat @ 8pm

Duration: 4.5 hours

Meet amazing people from all over the world and enjoy Edinburgh nightlife at its best 7 nights a week.

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Useful information.

Travel tips you need to know before visiting Edinburgh.

Sightseeing

Discover the most unmissable attractions in Edinburgh.

Things to do

The ultimate guide to things to do in Edinburgh.

Food and drink

Edinburgh's best restaurants, bars and pubs.

Where to stay

Find out the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

Discover how to travel around Edinburgh.

Address 154 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1QS

Email [email protected]

Phone +44 (0) 7858 992030

Leave us a message

We will get in touch with you within 24 hours (most messages are answered within 2 hours during normal business times).

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27 Places to Visit in Edinburgh

free tours edinburgh

This post provides the 27 best things to do in Edinburgh throughout the year. We also have a 3-day itinerary you can use to help plan out your trip to this historic city!

  • Top 21 Things to Do
  • 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary
  • Which Edinburgh City Pass is Best?
  • Free Walking Tours in Edinburgh

27 Things to Do in Edinburgh

Free Tours By Foot has provided free walking tours for over 100,000 travelers across the world, including locations in England.

We have used the knowledge and experience gained from these services to compile some of the most interesting and popular attractions and activities to enjoy in Edinburgh.

No matter what you're interested in doing, chances are that our guides and writers will be able to give you some great ideas for places to visit in Edinburgh.

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle sits high atop a bluff, a site where humans have lived since the 2nd century AD.

The castle itself has been there since the 12th century.

Over the centuries the castle has served as a military barracks, home to royalty, and a stronghold that has experienced at least 26 sieges in its history.

Today it houses a war museum, a 12th-century chapel, the crown jewels of Scotland, and a medieval great hall. Allow for at least two hours to see the highlights.

Though tickets are required to tour the castle ( see below ), the esplanade is free to stroll.

Tickets include an optional guided tour of the main parts of the castle. You can purchase an audio guide if you like.

Castle Hours:

  • last entry at 17:00 (5:00 PM)
  • last entry at 16:00 (4:00 PM)

Note that the castle is busiest from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM.

National War Museum Hours:

  • last entry at 17:30 (5:30 PM)
  • last entry at 16:30 (4:30 PM)
  • Adult (age 16-59): £19.50
  • Concession (age 60+ or unemployed) £16.00
  • Child (age 5-15) £11.50
  • Child under 4 Free
  • Purchase here .

It is recommended that you buy tickets in advance since the cost to purchase at the gate is £2 more per ticket.

If you want to save time, there are some guided tours that include skip-the-line tickets .

Tickets are free with an Explorer Pass and 25% off with the Royal Edinburgh Ticket Pass . Read more about these savings here .

Audio Guide Price

  • Adult £3.50
  • Concession £2.50
  • Child £1.50

Get 20% off audio guides with the Explorer Pass .

2. Take a Hop On Hop Off Tour

This is the best way to get your bearings in Edinburgh. If it’s sunny, sit up top for the best views of this stunning ancient city.

You can either do a 60-minute loop of the city in one trip or get off at any stop and explore.

Buses run every 12 minutes and start at Waverley Bridge. See your options here .

Before buying tickets, keep in mind that a number of hop on hop off tours are free with the Edinburgh City Pass and the Royal Edinburgh Ticket .

Edinburgh Bus Tour

Operating Hours:

  • April-May 9:00 AM -18:00 (6:00 PM - last departure)
  • June-August 9:00 AM -19:00 (7:00 PM - last departure)
  • September: 9:00 AM -18:00 (6:00 PM - last departure)
  • November-March: 9:00 AM -16:00 (4:00 PM - last departure)

Tickets (good for 24 hours):

  • Adult (age 16-60) £16
  • Senior (age 61+) £15
  • Children (age 5-15) £8

Buy your ticket here .

3. Climb Arthur's Seat

Arthur’s Seat sits to the east, not far from Edinburgh’s city center, in Holyrood Park.

This long-ago extinct volcano is the perfect location for a spectacular 360-degree view of Edinburgh.

Arthur's Seat

The walk is fairly easy if you are in decent shape, although a bit steep in places. Plan to take at least 45 minutes to get to the top.

The trail is usually quite busy during festival time (August) and less so the rest of the year.

Trails can be wet so supportive and waterproof footwear is necessary. It is windy at the top so be sure to wrap up well.

4. Take an Underground Vaults Tour

This 75-minute ghostly daytime walking tour takes you into the vaults of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

You’ll descend underground to the chambers where in days past one would find illegal whiskey distilleries and taverns.

Hear about bodysnatchers who stored corpses in the vaults. Your cloaked guide will set the mood and share the vault’s dark history.

  • Daily at 11:00, 13:00 (1:00 PM), 15:00 (3:00 PM), and 17:00 (5:00PM)

Purchased here .

5. Climb Nelson’s Monument

This monument was built in honor of Admiral Lord Nelson, the British naval war hero.

Completed in 1815, it sits with stones darkened black, shaped like an upturned telescope atop Calton Hill.

Around the base are displays dedicated to various historical people and groups, and to the Battle of Trafalgar.

Nelson's Monument

The platform on the monument, reached after a climb of 143 narrow and winding steps, allows for panoramic views of Edinburgh.

  • Monday: 10:00-16:00 (4 PM)
  • Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00-17:00 (5 PM)
  • Last entrance half an hour before closing time

£6:00 (visit the official website )

Free with the Edinburgh City Pass .

6. Take a Harry Potter Walking Tour

JK Rowling, the fabulously creative person behind the Harry Potter series, is Edinburgh’s most famous daughter.

It was here in the city’s cafes that Rowling created this fantasy world that millions have enjoyed. 

The city's spires and dark alleys inspired her vision of the world of Harry Potter.

The Harry Potter tour is the perfect way to learn more about the locations that sparked JK Rowling's creativity and about Edinburgh itself.

The tour is included for free with the Edinburgh City Pass .

7. Climb Aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia

For 44 years this ship served members of the royal family, ferrying royal figures to far-flung destinations in style. 

Today she is one of the most visited attractions in Edinburgh and stands moored in the Port of Leith.

Royal Yacht Britainnia

A complimentary audio guide easily helps you explore her 5 decks, from the State Apartments to the cramped Crew Quarters.

There is a “find the corgi” trail for children, and visitors can stay for soups, sandwiches, tea and scones in the Royal Tea Deck Room.

Fingal, her sister ship moored right next door, has a champagne tea, a bar, and a 23 room luxury hotel.

  • last admission at 15:30 (3:30 PM)
  • last admission at 16:30 (4:30 PM)

Closed on December 25 and January 1, with early closing times the day prior

  • Adults: £17.00
  • Seniors (aged 60+): £15.00
  • Children (aged 5-17): £8.75
  • Students (with ID): £15.00
  • Families (2 adults, up to 3 children): £47.00
  • Armed Forces (with ID): £8.75

Tickets can be purchased here .

8. Take a Boat Tour

The Maid of Forth provides well-reviewed sightseeing cruises that take place on the Firth of Forth, just outside of Edinburgh.

Their 90-minute 3 Bridges Tour shows you the Edinburgh Skyline, as well as Fife and a number of islands, along with the 3 bridges that provide transport links between Edinburgh and Fife.

This tour is free with the Edinburgh City Pass .  

Maid of Forth offers other tours as well, ones that visit castles, ruins, and stately homes, using boats, trains, and buses, including one that offers tea .

9. Take a Free Walking Tour

Pay-what-you-like walking tours are led by locals who charge no upfront cost. You determine at the end of the tour how much it was worth.

Our post on free walking tours of Edinburgh explains these types of tours in detail.

We also offer 2 free, self-guided walking tours, one of the Royal Mile and another for Harry Potter sights .

We currently have an audio tour for the Royal Mile .

Before you book, if you are considering purchasing a tourist attraction discount pass, note that the Edinburgh City Pass includes several walking tours absolutely free.

10. Walk the Royal Mile

This stretch of cobblestone street runs from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace, through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

This was at one point the city's main street, with back alleys and below-ground living quarters dotting the way, while trade took place at every corner.

The architecture makes it easy to imagine the past, and one finds symbols of Scottish history at every turn.

While it is a tourist area, where loads of shops sell the usual tartans and cheesy souvenirs, one also finds statues, churches, the Scottish Parliament, John Knox house, along with restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

11. Stroll through the National Museum of Scotland

This museum is located close to the Royal Mile. Plan to spend all day here, because there is that much to see. Entrance is free!

Natural history, cultural history, modern history, and more. The museum interior is stunning.

The museum is spread across three large floors, with a number of interactive exhibits, a cafe and a gift shop.

As it has merged with the Royal Scottish Museum just across the street, one has access to that collection as well.

10:00 - 17:00 (5:00PM)

Check the museum's website for more information.

12. Relax in Princes Street Gardens

Located in the center of Edinburgh, the Princes Street Gardens is the best place in the city for a break. Grab a park bench or stroll among her gardens.

At all times of the year, you’ll find statues, lush lawns, and a stunning view.

Princes Street Gardens

In the shadow of the Castle, with the backdrop of Old Town, one can behold the majesty of the city.

You can’t miss Scott Monument, the 200-foot Victorian Gothic celebration of Sir Walter Scott.

Its 200 steps can be climbed for £5.00. Be sure to stop and see the floral clock usually themed depending on the time of year.

In the winter there is a Christmas Market with stalls and a Ferris wheel.

13. Explore St. Giles Cathedral

This Gothic cathedral stands at the halfway point of the Royal Mile. The church was founded in 1124 and was the center of the Scottish Reformation.

Inside is the Thistle Chapel, a spectacular sight to see, with intricate wood carvings and stained glass windows.

You can visit this stunning cathedral for free, though a £5 donation is requested. Also, free 30-minute tours are offered at 10:30 and 14:30 (2:30 PM)

Entrance is free but a £5 donation is requested.

  • Monday-Saturday 9:00-17:00 (5:00 PM)
  • Sunday 13:00-17:00 (1:00 PM -5:00 PM)

There is a free 30-minute walking tour twice a day at 10:30 and 14:30 (2:30 PM).

  • Saturday 10:30 AM- 16:00 (4:00 PM)
  • Sunday 13:30 - 16:00 (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
  • Maximum 4 people and £6 per person. Bookings are taken that day

Read more about how to visit St. Giles Cathedral here .

14. Try Haggis

It’s not a trip to Scotland unless you indulge in a national delicacy, Haggis. What is Haggis, you ask?

Well, it’s either a calf’s or sheep’s offal mixed with onion, suet, oatmeal, salt, and spices. At times nutmeg or cinnamon is added as well.

Haggis and Potatoes

You can find it boiled (the traditional way), baked, or deep-fried and it’s often served with a side of mashed potatoes and mashed yellow turnips (“AKA mashed tatties and bashed neeps”).

In the past, it was the traditional meal of Burn’s night, an annual celebration of Scotland’s favorite poet, Robert Burns.

Today it can be found just about anywhere in the country, from grocery stores, to fast food places, to high-end restaurants.

15. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

This palace sits at the end of the Royal Mile, the official residence of Queen Elizabeth when she is in Scotland.

Around 900 years ago an Augustinian Abbey was first built on this site, the ruins of which can be found today next to the palace.

As the abbey prospered and grew over the years, it added a royal chamber. In the 1500s James I decided to convert these chambers into a palace.

Rulers have since renovated and rebuilt the palace many times until 1679 when it largely became what we see today.

One can now visit the apartment of Mary Queen of Scots, atop a tower reached by a small spiral staircase.

One can step into the Great Gallery where Bonnie Prince Charlie set up court for a short period of time.

Throughout the house, one will find portraits, tapestries, furnishings, thrones, gardens, and more.

An audio tour is on offer and there are activities for children. Pictures are allowed outside and in the main courtyard. There is a lovely cafe and a royal gift shop as well.

  • Last admission at 15:15 (3:15 PM)
  • Last admission at 16:30 (4:30 PM)

16. Join a Whiskey Tasting Tour

Whiskey is Scotland’s biggest export and its most loved liquor. Whiskey is a complex liquor and there is quite a lot to learn -- and lots to taste!

On a guided whiskey tasting tour, you’ll get a brief education on whiskey while you taste different kinds.

In Edinburgh, there are a number of ways to enjoy a tasting, from a walking tour to a  4-hour pub crawls .

There is even a  whiskey tasting with storytelling (particularly fitting for a country excels at oral tradition).

It’s easy enough to find the type of whiskey experience that will most appeal to you.

TIP: A visit to the Holyrood Distillery is free with the Edinburgh City Pass .

17. Admire Art at the Scottish National Gallery

At the Scottish National Gallery (formerly the National Galleries of Scotland), you will be taken aback by the breadth of the permanent collection displayed in this small collection.

From old masters (Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Gaugin, Botticelli) to the best of Scottish artists, you can find them here.

Particularly popular is Sir Edwin Landseer’s “The Monarch of the Glen” stag painting, commissioned to hang in the Palace of Westminster.

Scottish National Gallery

Keep an eye out for special exhibits and displays, such as the January 2023 exhibition of Turner’s landscape oil paintings and works on paper.

There is a museum shop, an excellent cafe, lockers to be rented for £1, all of it in the city center.

Check the website as hours change often.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a cost.

TIP: There is a gallery shuttle for £1 that travels between the Gallery of Modern Art and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

18. See a Show at the Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre

The Edinburgh Festival Theatre is Scotland’s largest performance venue. There has been a theatre on this spot since the 1830s.

The current building was refurbished in 1994 to provide modern-day comfort, space, and acoustics while retaining the look of an antique auditorium.

Edinburgh Festival Theatre

The theatre, a short walk from the Royal Mile or 10 minutes walk from Princes Street, is Scotland’s premier dance and opera house.

Here you’ll find large scale musical events and touring shows. It’s also a major venue for the Edinburgh International Festival.

Visit their website for information on shows and ticket pricing.

19. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard

This cemetery, where burials have been taking place since 1561, is considered the most haunted place in Edinburgh.

It is the resting place of many well-known residents of Edinburgh, the most famous of which is likely Greyfriars Bobby ( read below ).

Greyfriars Kirkyard

The name, Greyfriars, comes from the color of the robes, gray, that Franciscan friars housed on this site once wore.

Throughout its history, there were a number of revolts and rebellions over the chosen stage religion, one which saw over 1200 people held and tortured in the prison of Greyfriars Kirkyard.

See their website for more information to plan your visit.

20. Visit Greyfriars' Bobby

Scottish 19th -century lore says that Bobby, a Skye terrier, belonged to a nightwatchman named John Gray. When Gray died he was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Day after day for 14 years, Bobby sat at his master’s grave, until his own death in 1872.

A year later, Lady Angela Burdett-Coutts paid for a statue of Bobby that stands today at Candlemaker Row. 

Bobby

No one knows if the tale behind the statue is accurate, but it captured the imagination of the Scottish people in the mid-1800s and does still today.

To this day, Bobby remains a beloved figure in Scottish history. Read more about Bobby here .

21. Camera Obscura

This very popular and very old (1853) attraction near Edinburgh Castle has something for all ages.

Over 5 floors and hundreds of exhibits, one finds all sorts of illusions, including on the top floor, a 360-degree projected panorama of Edinburgh.

There’s a Magic Gallery of optical illusions, the Electric Gallery which allows you to hold lightning in your hand, the Light Fantastic which is full of holograms, and Eye Spy Edinburgh which allows you to see the city in three different dimensions.

Camera Obscura

It is well-reviewed and visitors are often surprised at just how much they enjoyed it.

  • Sunday-Friday 9:30 AM - 20:00 (8:00 PM)
  • Saturday 9:30 AM - 21:00 (9:00 PM)
  • Every Day 9:00 - 22:00 (10:00 PM)
  • Saturday 9:30 PM - 21:00 (9:00 PM)
  • Hours not listed

*in April, December, and January there are special hours on certain dates so be sure to check the website

  • Adults: £16.50
  • Seniors (aged 60+): £14.50
  • Children (aged 5-15): £12.50
  • Age 5 and under: Free
  • Students (with ID): £14.50

There are discounts to be hard for parties of 10 or more as long as they are booked in advance over the phone.

Tickets can be purchased here or at the door.

22. Visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Housed in two separate buildings, this historic museum includes a variety of beloved modern art, including pieces from artists such as Picasso and Matisse.

The best thing about this attraction is that it's entirely free to see their permanent collection. They also offer a £1 shuttle between this location and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

In other words, you can visit both museums in the same day and only pay £1 for travel between each one!

23. Enjoy a Drink at Johnnie Walker Princes Street

If you're a fan of Johnnie Walker whisky, you owe it to yourself to visit their Whisky Experience on Princes Street.

In addition to a traditional tour of the attraction, you'll also have the chance to enjoy several different tasting opportunities.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street also has rooftop bars where you can enjoy incredible views of nearby landmarks and historic sites, including Edinburgh Castle.

24. Discover Lauriston Castle and Gardens

Everyone knows about Edinburgh Castle, but if you've already visited that historic location and you want to see even more beautiful architecture, consider a short trip to Lauriston Castle.

Located just outside of the city, this 16th-century castle offers free admission to the grounds, and they also offer daily tours from Tuesday through Sunday at 1:30 pm and 3 pm each week. There is also a family tour offered at 11 am on weekends.

This castle also has an incredible Japanese Garden, and plenty of tree-lined paths to walk around the grounds.

25. See the Edinburgh Dungeon

Similar to the London Dungeon, this attraction gives visitors a live show featuring actors who portray infamous figures from throughout the most sordid history of Edinburgh.

Learn about the terrifying tale of Burke and Hare, discover what the city looked like during the plague, and face a trial for your life!

This attraction also offers late night services, allowing you to visit after dark for an even more disturbing experience.

  • £20.50/Adults | £16.50/Children
  • Availability: Daily from 11 am - 4 pm
  • Duration: 80 minutes
  • Purchase tickets or learn more .

26. Take the Kids to Dynamic Earth

This science museum is home to a planetarium, and they offer a lot of special exhibitions and events throughout the year.

From interactive galleries covering life on this planet to educational activities focusing on satellites and what it's like in outer space, there's plenty for families to enjoy at this attraction.

They even hold Christmas parties during the month of December!

  • £19.50/Adults | £12.00/Children
  • £16.75/Concessions (Students, 65+)
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Availability: Daily
  • Learn more here .

27. Go to the Chocolatarium

If you're looking for another excellent family activity, you absolutely need to visit the Chocolatarium in Edinburgh.

This chocolate factory offers what they call the Tour of Chocolate, which includes the opportunity to learn about how the delicious treat is made, where it comes from.

You'll even have the opportunity to make your own chocolate bar and choose from over 40 different flavours.

They also offer truffle-making classes and a variety of different tasting experiences.

A Sample 3-Day Itinerary in Edinburgh

Day 1: Historic Edinburgh

Morning: Commence your journey with a visit to the historic heart of the city, Edinburgh Castle . Meandering down the Royal Mile, you'll be enthralled by its unique mix of quaint shops, inviting cafes, and compelling historical sites such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Museum of Edinburgh.

Holyrood Palace. Image source: Pixabay user Walkerssk.

Afternoon: Venture towards the majestic Holyrood Palace, the Queen's official Scottish residence.

In its vicinity, you'll find the contemporary Scottish Parliament Building and the awe-inspiring Arthur's Seat, which hosts stunning panoramic views of the city from its summit.

Evening: Feast on traditional Scottish fare in one of the snug restaurants hidden within the city's ancient streets. Later, soak up the vibrant atmosphere and experience authentic Scottish music in the lively pubs of the Grassmarket area.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Embark on your second day with a visit to the National Museum of Scotland. This enlightening experience will give you a comprehensive understanding of Scotland's rich history and diverse culture.

Dean Village in Edinburgh. Image source: Pixabay user Eduardo Vieira.

Afternoon: Absorb some culture at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and then take a leisurely stroll to the picturesque Dean Village.

From there, meander along the Water of Leith to reach Stockbridge, a buzzing part of the city renowned for its unique independent shops and lively Sunday market.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in the dynamic Leith area, where you can sample the city's evolving gastronomy, which boasts a range of gourmet dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Then, explore the waterfront pubs of Leith, providing a relaxed setting for your evening.

Day 3: Modern Charms and Tranquil Moments

Morning: Start your third day by immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Princes Street Gardens. Subsequently, indulge in some retail therapy in Edinburgh's vibrant City Centre, particularly the New Town area, known for its high-street and designer boutiques.

Princes Street Garden. Image source: Pixabay user Eduardo Vieira.

Afternoon: Retreat to the serene Royal Botanic Garden, a perfect antidote to the bustle of the city.

There, you can enjoy a leisurely hike through beautifully curated plant collections from around the world.

Evening: For your final night, sample the culinary delights at one of the trendy restaurants in the West End.

Complete your Edinburgh experience with a spellbinding show at one of the city's many theatres, truly making your visit a memorable one.

What Is Edinburgh Known for?

Edinburgh is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, prominently seen in landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Holyrood Abbey.

It also boasts beautiful natural sites like Calton Hill and Portobello Beach. The city is a hub for the arts, notably hosting the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

How much time do you need in Edinburgh?

A minimum of three days is recommended to experience Edinburgh fully. It will allow you to explore its historic landmarks, and dive into activities such as the Scotch Whisky Experience.

You might even have the opportunity to engage in the unique World of Illusions, or take a leisurely stroll on Portobello Beach. Extra time can be spent visiting the nearby Scottish Highlands or Loch Ness.

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is particularly lively during late spring and summer, offering warm weather and blooming landscapes, making it an ideal time to visit.

If you want to partake in local festivities, consider planning your trip around the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.

Also, Edinburgh is known for its spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations, known as Hogmanay, a truly unique experience.

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Edinburgh Free Tour

  • 9.40 / 10 774 reviews | 7,349 travellers Our guide Valeria made us appreciate the beauty and value of the city despite the heavy rain, telling us curious anecdotes at every step of the tour, highly recommended! 10 Roberto Zola

Discover Edinburgh's Old Town with this free walking tour of one of Scotland's most beloved cities. If you love history and legends or are a fan of Harry Potter , this tour is perfect for you. What are you waiting for?

Edinburgh Free Tour

  • St. Giles' Cathedral
  • The Writers' Museum
  • Victoria Street
  • The Grassmarket
  • Greyfriars Kirkyard

Edinburgh Free Walking Tour

At the scheduled time, we'll meet on the Royal Mile in the middle of Edinburgh to begin this free walking tour of this charming city rife with history and legends! We'll explore Edinburgh's Old Town by visiting some of the city's most emblematic streets, such as Victoria Street .

The tour will kick off at St. Giles' Cathedral , one of Scotland's most important medieval parish churches. You may also hear this 900-year-old church being referred to as the "Mother Church of World Presbyterianism" due to its role in the Scottish Reformation and the Covenanters's Rebellion .

Afterwards, we'll make our way to The Writers' Museum , which is found within Lady Stair's House just off the Royal Mile. This small, yet incredibly impactful museum recounts the lives of 3 giants of Scottish literature: Robert Burns (1759-1796), Walter Scott (1771-1832), and Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894). The museum is home to portraits, works and other personal items which once belonged to these renowned writers.

Continuing onwards, we'll make our way to Victoria Street , one of the most photographed spots in the whole city. This street oozes a fun and youthful vibe, with many tourists flocking here to capture photos of the colourful shopfronts and eclectic architecture . Victoria Street was also the inspiration for the famous wizarding street of Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter film series!

At the end of Victorua Street lies the  Grassmarket , a marketplace which dates back to the 14th century. This bustling square was also the site of public executions and one of Edinburgh's most notorious riots. These riots were known as the Porteous Riots and took place during April 1736.

Lastly, we'll end up at Greyfriars Kirkyard , considered the world's most haunted graveyard! Here, we'll hear all about the paranormal happenings, including the story of the MacKenzie Poltergeist . However, not all of these stories are to be feared. We'll also learn of Scotland's most treasured K9, Bobby the Skye Terrier!

Also, located not too far from the cemetery is the Elephant House Café, where J.K Rowling wrote  Harry Potter  while sitting in a window seat overlooking a rather Hogwarts-esque school!

Finally, this tour will come to an end after 2 hours of exploring this magical and unique city. Until next time!

Groups of more than 10 people are not permitted on the tour.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

Entrance fees

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation. An accompanying person is required.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Promotes local employment.

Somos Escocia Show more

Corporate name: SOMOS ESCOCIA LTD

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

369 High Street (Royal Mile), opposite St. Giles' Cathedral

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The Wanderful Me

  • Europe , Scotland , Things To Do , Tour Reviews , United Kingdom

Throughout many cities in the Europe, you’ll find an array of “free” tours. Meaning, they are essentially free but at the end of the tour, you decide how much you felt it was worth. Thus, you give a price to the value provided. And while there are a multitude of great free tours available, here are the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh!

Heading to Edinburgh, Scotland? Here are the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh! #Edinburgh #Scotland #FreeTours

No doubt, Edinburgh is one of my all-time favorite cities in Scotland. And this city is PACKED with awesome free tours to help you see the city on a budget.

In my opinion, the following free Edinburgh tours were the best because the starting point was easy to locate , the tour guides were absolutely fantastic, the tour itinerary’s were awesome, and the value provided was out of this world!

Although, without a doubt in my mind, the best part of each free tour was the tour guides.

Each and every one of them are an Edinburgh local, super charismatic, very engaging, fantastic storytellers, and all guided their tours at a great pace.

Not too fast, not too slow — perfect for every traveler of any age !

So, if you’re looking for something to do, keep reading below to check out a few awesome free tours in the historic city of Edinburgh.

Table of Contents

3 BEST FREE TOURS IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

The potter trail.

A fabulous Harry Potter themed tour , this free tour in Edinburgh absolutely blew past my expectations! My guide for this particular free tour was Will and, no doubt, he led a magical  adventure around the city.

Before visitors embark on the Harry Potter tour, each receives a crafty wand to hold onto throughout the adventure, making you feel like you’re an actual wizard! Just make sure not to cast any miserable spells on your fellow tour-mates. 😉

The tour starts at the statue of Greyfriars Bobby ; very easy to find and centrally-located. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours , depending on how busy the city is and how easily everyone gets around.

It was the perfect amount of time for Will to show us Lord Voldemort’s grave , discover the cafe where Rowling wrote the first book , wander down the real Diagon Alley , view the school which inspired Hogwarts , and much more!

Even if you’re not a die-hard Harry Potter fan, this tour is fantastic for everyone because you get a peek into the quirky history of Edinburgh ! Suitable for wizards and muggles alike. 😉

Read more about the tour here . 

P.S. Once you’re done exploring Edinburgh, why not make some new friends and visit the adorable puffins on an Isle of May boat trip ?

Edinburgh Building • The 3 Best Free Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland | The Wanderful Me

Edinburgh’s Free Ghost Tour

With a grim and bloody past , the city of Edinburgh is no doubt filled with haunting ghosts and sorrow spirits! And Edinburgh’s Free Ghost Tour covers it all. Every bone-chilling ghost story and all the dark murders which happened throughout the city.

Known as one of the most haunted cities in Europe , Edinburgh is plagued with a past of harrowing disease, grisly murders, and weird witchcraft. At first glance, the cobbled streets of Edinburgh are strikingly beautiful. But deep in the closes, you’ll find its beauty is darkened by horror.

On this free tour of Edinburgh, you’ll learn all about the body snatching, horrifying executions, dreadful tortures, and gruesome jails. Just make sure to bring a jacket, as the sinful stories and tormenting tales might give you a little chill!

If you’re only in Edinburgh for a short time, this is definitely one of the best free tours in Edinburgh that you must do! Super fun and it’s a night tour, which makes it even more exciting!

Learn more about the free ghost tour here . 

Have you ever thought about wild camping in Scotland? Read my story of when Dan (the wanderful boyfriend) and I went wild camping near Glencoe in rural Scotland !

Mausoleum at Greyfriars Kirkyard • The 3 Best Free Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland | The Wanderful Me

City Explorers Free Edinburgh Tour

The last – but not least – of the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh. This particular tour focuses on everything Edinburgh ; from the history of the city to the local people to the modern day buildings. It’s a great tour to do at the beginning of your travels in Edinburgh, as you can get a feel for the beautiful city, learn about it’s history, and wander around it with a knowledgeable guide.

Though there are many City Explorer guides, we had the pleasure of touring the city with Euan. A fantastic Edinburgh local who is proud to live in Edinburgh and is passionate about knowing everything about it.

He showed and told us the history behind the Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Old and New Towns, Greyfriars Kirkyard and Greyfriars Bobby, the Grassmarket, and much more. It was fantastic! 

This tour lasts for about 2.5 wonderful hours ; it’s not too fast and not too slow. Definitely perfect for anyone who is looking to learn more about the city of Edinburgh !

Check out more information on this free tour in Edinburg here . 

Psst, ready to see my BIG list of things to do in Edinburgh? Check out this whopper of a post featuring 30 awesome sites, attractions, and things to see and do in Edinburgh !

Streets of Edinburgh, Scotland • The 3 Best Free Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland | The Wanderful Me

There’s my 3 best free tours in Edinburgh , y’all! One of my favorite cities in the UK , it’s filled with beautiful buildings, wonderful locals, and a deep history – one that is both light and dark.

If you ever visit, make sure not miss out on these awesome tours and I hope you love the city as much as I do!

P.S . If you’re only in Edinburgh for a short time , the best part about these free tours is that they usually don’t run at the same time!

So, if you’re up for it, you can do all 3 tours in one day . Start off with the City Explorers Edinburgh Tour at 11 AM, then go to the Harry Potter Trail tour at 3 or 4 PM , take a short break, and, lastly, do the Edinburgh Ghost Tour at 5 or 7 PM .

It’d be exhausting to do it all in one day but it is possible! Ideally, you’d do the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh over the course of 2 or 3 days, allowing yourself some free time to explore on your own but these times allow you to see most of the city in just one day!

Pin The 3 Best Free Tours in Edinburgh for later! ↓

Planning a trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, Scotland? Are you on a budget or just need something to do? Check out this list of the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh! #travel #edinburgh #scotland #budgettravel #freetours #tours

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The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

The narrow and charming Circus Lane in historic Edinburgh, Scotland on a sunny day

I never get tired of visiting Edinburgh . I love the enchanting cobblestone streets, the world-class whisky bars, the plethora of free museums, and arty vibe of the city (it’s the inspiration for many, many writers).

It has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century and has a history that stretches back millennia (humans have been in the area since 8500 BCE). There’s an epic medieval castle, an ancient volcano, the historic Old Town, and the New Town (both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites).

One of the best ways to soak it all up is by taking a walking tour. While ghost tours are some of the most popular here (Edinburgh is supposedly one of the most haunted cities in the world), there are many other tours to experience, from bike tours to food tours to pub crawls.

Here’s my list of the best walking tours in Edinburgh to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your stay!

Best Overall Tour

The Mercat Tours company logo

Mercat Tours

This family-owned company specializes in a variety of tours of the vaults under the city (a labyrinth of tunnels that were first used as storage and workshop space for businesses in the early 17th century), and it’s the only company to offer vault tours during the day . Adult-only tours include the infamous Canongate graveyard and there are even vault tours designed for kids .

Tours start at 20 GBP.

Best Free Tour

Edinburgh's City Explorer's tour company logo

City Explorers

City Explorers runs four different free walking tours daily. Start with the classic Edinburgh Free Tour, on which you’ll see and learn about the main sights, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St Giles’ Cathedral. There’s also a free ghost tour, a free Harry Potter tour, and a free New Town tour as well. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

  While those two are my top recommendations for tours in Edinburgh, here are a few more options to help you make the most of your time here:

1. Secret Food Tours

Food is an important part of every culture. Scotland has all manner of interesting culinary delights, and the best way to learn more about them (while sampling a bunch) is by taking a food tour. Secret Food Tours offers the best one in Edinburgh. On their three-hour classic tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town , you’ll try delicacies like haggis, creamy Scottish cheese, neeps, and tatties (and learn what those even are), as well as enjoy traditional Scottish tea.

If you want to try more local spirits, you can take the Secret Whisky, Gin, & Beyond tour , which includes seven tastings of locally brewed and distilled liquors.

Prices start at 69 EUR.

2. A Wee Pedal Bike Tour

To cover more ground and get out of town a bit, take a bike tour. A Wee Pedal has several different offerings, so you can see more of Edinburgh and its surrounding countryside on two wheels. The most popular tour is the 20-mile loop tour , which circumnavigates the entire city. There’s also a 12-mile version that goes out to the rugged coastline for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

While rides are taken at a meandering, comfortable pace, you can also rent an e-bike for an extra 15 GBP if you’re not up for the challenge. You can also book special private tours, including one that ends at a brewery (tasting included), and a mountain bike tour.

Prices start at 65 GBP.

3. City of the Dead Tours

If you’re looking to get genuinely creeped out, take a tour with City of the Dead. They offer several tours that go through the underground vaults . City of the Dead is also the only tour company with access to the ominously named Black Mausoleum and Covenanter’s Prison , some of the most haunted places in the world. These spots are favorites of the Mackenzie Poltergeist, considered one of the world’s best-documented supernatural entities, with hundreds of supposed encounters. It’s one of my favorite tours in the city!

Prices start at 19 GBP.

4. Mountebank Tours

One of TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Things to Do in the UK, the Mountebank Comedy Walk, run by Daniel Downie, an award-winning stand-up comedian, is undoubtedly the most hilarious way to see Auld Reekie (an old nickname for the city). On this tour you’ll laugh and learn not only about Edinburgh but all things Scottish, from culture to history to some famous (and infamous) people. And if you’re lucky, Daniel’s adorable dog Bonnie Prince might even join you.

Prices start at 22 GBP.

5. See Your City

One of the biggest walking tour companies in the UK, See Your City offers several fun tours in Edinburgh. Their best (and most popular) is the Harry Potter walking tour , on which you’ll visit the places that inspired JK Rowling as she penned her famous series (and the café where she did so). You’ll even get sorted into your Hogwarts house and get to test your book and movie knowledge in a quiz to earn points. It’s a super fun tour and a must for Harry Potter fans.

Other unique See Your City tours in Edinburgh include a Cheese Crawl and a True Crime walking tour .

Prices start at 16 GBP.

Edinburgh is a fascinating place. It’s bursting with history and there are tons of walking tours on offer, allowing you to deepen your experience and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Pick one (or several) from the list above and you won’t go wrong!

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Book Your Trip to Edinburgh: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • SafetyWing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Edinburgh? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Edinburgh for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Discover the many faces of Edinburgh with a passionate local guide

It’s hard not to fall in love with the Scottish capital. With a dark and mysterious history, woven through narrow alleyways and cobbled streets, it’s not hard to see how J.K Rowling found inspiration while writing Harry Potter here.

From the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, down the Royal Mile and to the postcard-perfect Arthur’s seat, we help you see “Auld Reekie” through the eyes of Edinburgh’s best local tour guides.

The original gratuity-based Free Tour of Edinburgh starts on the Royal Mile and covers many of Edinburgh’s top attractions. After you’ve got the overview with the gratuity-based free walking tour, delve deeper with us!

No trip here is complete without visiting  Edinburgh’s castle , where you’ll learn about some of the bloodiest battles in Scottish history and the Stone of Destiny. And don’t forget to also explore the  New Town , with a tour including the Scott Monument, the Princes Street Gardens and the Scottish Enlightenment.

Want to learn about Edinburgh’s dark history? The  Dark Side Tour covers murderers, witches, bodysnatchers and more. But if you want to discover Edinburgh’s magical world, the Harry Potter Tour takes you to the locations that inspired J.K. Rowling.

Still got energy? Finish the day off with some of Edinburgh’s best nightlife on our  Pub Crawl ! One thing’s for sure; the top things to do and see in Edinburgh can all be found on a SANDEMANs tour!

Enjoy authentic local experiences

Edinburgh is part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, one of the largest walking tour companies in the world. Offering daily tours in English and Spanish, we believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Edinburgh;s best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

Aside from the gratuity-based Free Tour, in Edinburgh you’ll also find unforgettable tours and experiences. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

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The local expert guides we work with are proud to show you the best Edinburgh has to offer!

Scroll through to learn more about these unforgettable guides, including where they’re from, why they love Edinburgh and which tours they can offer you.

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Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

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Overview of the tour in Edinburgh

We encourage you to join our free tour in Spanish, to know all the wonders of the Old City of Edinburgh. Every day our visit begins from the majestic Royal Mile to take you to know each of the stories, monuments, squares, alleys, and cemeteries of its oldest historical center. What are we going to discover in this Free Tour: The history of the capital of Scotland. The Victorian Mercat Cross St. Giles Cathedral The magical and colorful street, Victoria street. The most famous closes Its most important museums Inspirational places of J.K. Rowling for Harry Potter Grassmarket and its most authentic bars. Greyfriars Cemetery The story of the puppy Bobby. Scottish traditions, customs, anecdotes, and much more ...

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  1. Edinburgh FREE Tour

    Address. 154 High Street. Edinburgh EH1 1QS. Email. [email protected]. Phone. +44 (0) 7858 992030. The Edinburgh FREE Tour starts every day on The Royal Mile.Our Edinburgh FREE Walking Tours are both informative and fun and offer something for everyone.

  2. Free Tours by Foot

    Old Town + The Royal Mile Free Tour. You will learn about the history of this medieval city, with more than 3000 years, from St Giles Cathedral & Edinburgh Castle walk along the Royal Mile to see the main sites of Edinburgh. Schedule: Daily. Start Time: 10:00, 11:00, 16:00. Tour Language: English.

  3. 13 Free Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland

    Authentic Edinburgh Free Tour. Provided by Clan Pascual Tours. Rating: 9.7. (Reviews: 298) from €0 Tip based. Discover the historic center of Edinburgh with an authentic free tour in Spanish. We will introduce you to the history of the capital of Scotland, its culture, heritage, gastronomy, and the Harry Potter universe.

  4. 21 Free Walking Tours at Edinburgh

    21 free tours in Edinburgh. The best guruwalks in Edinburgh (21 / 21) Edinburgh Essentials - Best Historic Free Walking Tour 1538 ratings. 4.8 Duration: 2h Starts at: 10:00, 10:30 and 4 more tue 26. wed 27. thu 28. fri 29. sat 30. sun 31. mon 1. tue 2. wed 3. Guru: City Tours Somos Escocia PRO

  5. City Explorers Tours

    154 High Street. Edinburgh EH1 1QS. Email. [email protected]. Phone. +44 (0) 7858 992030. Send message. Our famous FREE Ghost Tour is today the most popular Ghost Tour in Edinburgh Old Town. The FREE Ghost Tour is a must for every visitor in Edinburgh.

  6. Free Walking Tour Edinburgh

    The popular Free Edinburgh City Tour is led by a local guide and aims to hit the top attractions and sights of the city. On a Free Ghost Tour by night, you will hear fascinating stories of body snatchers, witches and poltergeists. Of course, many travelers come all the way to Edinburgh to join a Harry Potter in Edinburgh Free Walking Tour.

  7. Free Tour Edinburgh

    Discover the Best Free Things to Do in Edinburgh with World Free Tours! 🤩 Experience the charm of this historic city on our exceptional Free Walking Tours tailored for travelers like you. Not only are these tours informative and engaging, but they're also easy on the wallet. Embark on a captivating journey through Edinburgh's rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage ...

  8. Edinburgh Free Tour

    Tour Description . The Old Town of Edinburgh has more than 3000 years of history and today it is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, where great kings and queens once lived within its walls. We will explore the most iconic streets and alleys that inspired great writers and inventors. We will talk about history, wars and notable ...

  9. EFVGA

    Join us for a free walking tour along the Royal Mile - the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town. Our expert guides will take you to the hidden corners of this fascinating district: the closes and courtyards, the neuks and crannies - places that you might never discover on your own. We'll tell you about its history and especially about the ...

  10. Free Tour of Dean Village, Stockbridge and Princes Street Gardens

    The Best Free Tour of Edinburgh. from €0 (Tip based) 9.5 (Reviews: 928) Spanish 2h 15min 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM The Harry Potter Free Walking Tour of Edinburgh. from €0 (Tip based) 9.6 (Reviews: 932) Spanish 2 hours 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM +1 More. More tours near Edinburgh

  11. Free Walking Tour Edinburgh

    Our free walking tour is the best way to explore Edinburgh and discover the secrets of this fascinating city. Such a tour is a perfect option for individual tourists as well as small groups of friends, families and couples. With Walkative! guides you will also visit other European capitals such as Berlin, Warsaw, Brussels, Madrid and Lisbon.

  12. Self-Guided Edinburgh Walking Tour

    GPS-Enabled Audio Tour. We also offer a 25-stop audio tour of historic Edinburgh, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides, that you could take whenever you wish. Here's a sample. Purchase an audio tour (£2.30) Get a confirmation email with .mp3, pdf, and embeddable Google Map. Enjoy the tour (s).

  13. Free Tour of Edinburgh

    The gratuity-based Edinburgh Free Tour starts on 130 High Street (The Royal Mile), on the corner with Stevenlaw's Close. Stroll up the Royal Mile, visiting St Gile's Cathedral and other major landmarks. Meet Scottish greats like William Wallace. Visit the pub (and history!) filled Grassmarket. Help to contribute to the local community at your ...

  14. Edinburgh Free Walking Tours

    About. The secrets of Edinburgh is a 1 hour free tour that hits several unique spots in the stunning old town of Edinburgh. Since our first tour as a company in 2010. The Real Free Tours have proven themselves to be the alternative to the humdrum stories and sights of the city. We prefer to show visitors Scotland's phenomenal history of ...

  15. FREE New Town Tour

    In the Free New Town Tour you'll discover all the secrets of one of the most historical neighbourhoods in Edinburgh, a declared Unesco heritage site, and fascinate yourself with the transformation experienced by one of Europe's leading cities in the Age of Enlightenment.. During the second half of the XVIII century, Edinburgh passed from being a dark, dirty and uncomfortable city to be a ...

  16. 21 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh in 2023

    3. Climb Arthur's Seat. Arthur's Seat sits to the east, not far from Edinburgh's city center, in Holyrood Park. This long-ago extinct volcano is the perfect location for a spectacular 360-degree view of Edinburgh. The walk is fairly easy if you are in decent shape, although a bit steep in places.

  17. Edinburgh Free Walking Tour

    At the scheduled time, we'll meet on the Royal Mile in the middle of Edinburgh to begin this free walking tour of this charming city rife with history and legends! We'll explore Edinburgh's Old Town by visiting some of the city's most emblematic streets, such as Victoria Street. The tour will kick off at St. Giles' Cathedral, one of Scotland's ...

  18. The Potter Trail

    Stuart on one of the earliest Potter Trail tours, right at the beginning. Originally founded in 2012 by Stuart Young, our first tours were often just for a handful of people. Since then, we've gone from 1 guide to 10, and from 3 tours a week to 2 tours a day! Stuart and our earliest guides were members of Edinburgh University's Comedy Society ...

  19. FREE Tours in Edinburgh: 3 You Don't Wanna Miss

    The last - but not least - of the 3 best free tours in Edinburgh. This particular tour focuses on everything Edinburgh; from the history of the city to the local people to the modern day buildings.It's a great tour to do at the beginning of your travels in Edinburgh, as you can get a feel for the beautiful city, learn about it's history, and wander around it with a knowledgeable guide.

  20. The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

    City Explorers runs four different free walking tours daily. Start with the classic Edinburgh Free Tour, on which you'll see and learn about the main sights, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St Giles' Cathedral. There's also a free ghost tour, a free Harry Potter tour, and a free New Town tour as well.

  21. SANDEMANs Edinburgh

    Enjoy authentic local experiences. Edinburgh is part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, one of the largest walking tour companies in the world. Offering daily tours in English and Spanish, we believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Edinburgh;s best local freelance tour guides, who passionately ...

  22. The Potter Trail

    Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh. and it's FREE! Currently. NUMBER ONE. Edinburgh Tour. on. Tripadvisor! Celebrating 11 years! 2012 - 2023. OUR TOURS. Our FREE tours in Edinburgh depart every day at 12pm! Book your place now. Book a Free Tour. Book a paid PRIVATE tour at a time to suit you.

  23. Guide launches free Edinburgh walking tours with 'ancestor' of

    Now 150 years after the loyal Skye Terrier died a local guide has launched a unique walking tour, with an 'ancestor' of the world-famous dog as his companion. Calum Ferguson started doing tours ...

  24. Authentic Edinburgh Free Tour

    Tours in Edinburgh; Authentic Edinburgh Free Tour; Authentic Edinburgh Free Tour. Duration: 2h 15min | Provided by Clan Pascual Tours. Overview Includes Meeting point Reviews (300) Watch video. 1 /4. Watch video. Spanish | 10:30 AM . EVERY DAY. Spanish | 2:30 PM . EVERY DAY. from €0 Tip based.