United Kingdom

Discover the top-rated tours in Edinburgh, including audio guides, walking tours, and museum visits. Skip the lines and explore with expert tips.

Best Edinburgh Tours in 2026 – Book Self-Guided Experiences

Edinburgh

National Museum of Scotland

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Edinburgh Castle

St Giles' Cathedral

Scott Monument

Holyrood Palace

Scottish National Gallery

Princes Street Gardens

The Real Mary King's Close

The Edinburgh Dungeon

The Old College Quad at Edinburgh University

Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Grassmarket

Royal Mile

High Street

Museum of Edinburgh

Scottish Parliament

The Scotch Whisky Experience

The People's Story Museum

National Library of Scotland

Welcome to this self-guided audio tour of Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. This tour includes a ticket to The King's Gallery, but please note that an audio tour inside The King's Gallery is not provided.

Your journey begins at The King's Gallery, located within the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and takes you through various iconic sites. You will explore the historic Palace of Holyroodhouse, walk along the vibrant Royal Mile, visit St Giles' Cathedral, and delve into the rich history of the National Museum of Scotland. Other stops include Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the National Galleries of Scotland, and finally, the Scott Monument.

As you navigate through Edinburgh's Old Town and beyond, you will discover the city's royal history, architectural marvels, and cultural landmarks. You will learn about the lives of former residents, the significance of historical events, and the cultural heritage that makes Edinburgh unique. This tour promises memorable experiences, from the panoramic views of the city from the Scott Monument to the whimsical world of optical illusions at the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.

English

Edinburgh: Kings Gallery Ticket & Sightseeing Audio Tour

This self-guided audio tour takes you through the historic and culturally significant sites of Edinburgh, Scotland, with a ticket to The Edinburgh Dungeon included. If you are interested in history, architecture, and the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, this tour is perfect for you.

The tour begins at The Edinburgh Dungeon, an underground attraction on Market Street, where you will delve into 500 years of Edinburgh's history through interactive shows and rides. From there, you will make your way to various iconic sites such as the Scott Monument, the National Galleries of Scotland, Princes Street Gardens, Johnnie Walker Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard, The University of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland, St Giles' Cathedral, The Real Mary King's Close, and finally, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

As you navigate through these landmarks, you will discover the city's dark past, its literary and whisky heritage, and its architectural splendor. You will climb the Scott Monument for panoramic views, explore the grand halls of Edinburgh Castle, and walk through the underground streets of Mary King's Close. Note that an audio tour inside The Edinburgh Dungeon is not provided. This journey will leave you with memorable experiences and a deep understanding of Edinburgh's fascinating history.

Edinburgh Sightseeing Tour with The Edinburgh Dungeon Ticket

Let the threads of history weave their magic around you and discover the fascinating story of Scotland through 160 exquisitely hand-stitched panels, chronologically showcasing the nation's history, heritage, innovations, and culture. 

From the formation of the land itself to the present day, each panel and image is designed to be easily understood, with accompanying text to bring to life tales of struggles, ambitions, successes, failures, and the quest for meaning and belonging.

Created by the people of Scotland, the Scottish Tapestry is a majestic tribute to the nation's vibrant history and breathtaking landscapes. 

With over 1,000 men, women, and children contributing their talents, this Tapestry stands as one of the most ambitious community projects ever undertaken in Scotland – a true work of art by the nation, *for* the nation.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland: Entry Ticket

This self-guided audio tour invites travelers to uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital. Note that this tour includes an entrance ticket to the Holyrood Palace available in the app, but the audio guide inside the museum is not provided. 

The journey begins at the Holyrood Palace and winds its way through the heart of the city. Travelers will stroll along the Royal Mile, passing historic sites such as St Giles’ Cathedral, the Writers’ Museum, and the imposing Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, before reaching the Georgian House in the elegant New Town. Each stop reveals a new chapter in Edinburgh’s past, from medieval fortresses to Enlightenment-era architecture, with detailed narratives that bring the city’s heritage to life.

Along the route, memorable experiences await: exploring the atmospheric closes of the Old Town, and learning about legendary figures like Sir Walter Scott and Mary Queen of Scots. The tour offers a deep connection to Edinburgh’s layered history, making every step a discovery of the city’s enduring spirit and cultural legacy.

Edinburgh: Palace of Holyroodhouse Ticket & Royal Mile Walk Audio Tour

This tour is your owl letter to the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
NOTICE — no half-giant or wand required.

This is self-guided audio tour. All information, including route and excursion itself, will be provided via app. 

Edinburgh is an old city that gave a hiding place to unemployed single mother. In return, she attracted millions of tourists here to wander the streets looking for magical inspiration. So do not be surprised if the urge to start a book appears.

We start at the former Spoon Bistro, the little known place where the first HP book was written. You will then see the school that is speculated to be an inspiration for Hogwarts itself.

After that, you will be guided through a mysterious Greyfriars Kirkyard to find the tombstone of Tom Riddell. To warm up, the tour will get you to the busy Victoria street with cafes and souvenir shops. This very street recalls the memories of Diagon Alley and preschool shopping.

Through the narrow cobblestone streets, you will see the New College of the University of Edinburgh and gilded handprints of JK in front of the City Chambers. We finish at Balmoral Hotel, the luxurious place where the last HP novel was finished.

All addresses, maps, and butterbeer recommendations are provided in a careful manner.
The tour is well suited for the first timers in Edinburgh and Harry Potter fans.

Experience the magic!

Edinburgh: Harry Potter's Magical Legacy Audio Tour

Step into the eerie world of The Edinburgh Dungeon, where Scotland’s dark and twisted history comes to life in spine-chilling detail. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this immersive attraction takes you on a thrilling journey through the city’s most notorious stories, from ancient witch trials to gruesome tales of murder and betrayal.

Experience heart-pounding live actor-led shows, thrilling special effects, and gripping storytelling as you navigate through terrifyingly recreated scenes from Edinburgh’s past. Feel the tension rise as you encounter characters from Scotland’s darker side, including infamous criminals, witches, and torturers, each bringing history to life with dramatic flair.

As you make your way through the Dungeon, the terrifying sights and sounds will keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss the chance to face the infamous "Terror of the Torture Chamber," or test your nerves on the Dungeons' ghostly ride, a truly haunting experience.

Your entry ticket includes access to all the interactive shows and chilling exhibits within the Dungeon, making it a must-see for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Book your tickets today for a truly unforgettable experience—if you dare!

The Edinburgh Dungeon: Entry Ticket

Welcome to Edinburgh, a beautiful modern city with a horrid and brutal past! This self-guided horror walk on your smartphone will take you around the old town of Edinburgh to explore the twisting closes and streets that have played host to some of the most brutal parts of the city's past.

This audio walk takes you from the Royal Mile where you will learn why it was once considered as "the world's end". As you walk down to the Grassmarket the audio commentary will reveal the story of Thomas Weir, infamously known as the Wizard of Westbow.

The market itself was not only for shopping but for merciless punishment that will send shivers down your spine.

Finally, you will walk through Greyfriars Cemetery where you will hear stories about grave robbing, body snatching, and mysterious killings. There are steps involved so be careful as you make your way through the old town. 

This is not a ghost tour as such, but more a dark history tour. However, that doesn't mean you aren't in for a fright!

Edinburgh: Haunted Legends Audio Tour

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Scotland and relive the past of Edinburgh!
 
Begin your discoveries of the Old Town with Holyroodhouse Palace and admire the serenity of its park contrasting with the striking modern complex of the  New Scottish Parliament. Carry on to John Knox's house while listening to the peculiar life story of its owner, a man by no means ordinary.

Go on then to lay your eyes on a gorgeous mass of High Kirk of St Giles, with its intricated Gothic motifs over the walls. After that, don't let the statue of Greyfriars Bobby pass you by, as his story is of an incredible and touching kind.

Mount Castle Rock in order to get up close to the majestic figure of Edinburgh Castle looming over the city. You will then have a chance to look over the National Gallery of Scotland, conveniently situated next to the Royal Scottish Academy, so you can visit them both if you wish.

Finish your tour with the picturesque view opening from Princes Street before you are left to enjoy the bubbly life of the New Town. Indulge yourself in a relaxing walk right amidst it!

Put aside some time and be ready to discover the surprises Edinburgh has prepared for you!

Edinburgh: Must-See Sights of the Old Town

Take a walk around Edinburgh, the home to the forensic science of Scotland!

Begin your exploration by considering a plaque at the birthplace of Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of the ingenious Sherlock Holmes. Go on to explore Governor's House as you learn about the real case that served as inspiration for Stevenson to create the infamous Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide from his novel.

Immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of Old Surgeon's Hall, which story will unveil the dark times of Edinburgh. Admire the view that opens from Grassmarket, a peaceful street where you would never believe gallows have ever stood. 

Feel like a detective as you see over the High Court, listening about the cases solved in this imposing building and unraveling their mysteries. And for sure, let your eyes fix on the Heart of Midlothian, a beautiful yet gloomy reminder of the criminals executed right in the heart of Edinburgh.

By the end of the tour, you will know everything about crime in Edinburgh, so dive into this city's chilling secrets...

Edinburgh: a Tour through History of Crime

Visit the country's most popular museum with your own in-app audio tour! With this tour, you will not get lost in the endless labyrinth, as it will guide you to the museum's greatest highlights.

Note that this museum has free (!) admission. By buying this audio tour, you don’t pay for your entry but get an opportunity to explore the beauty of the museum at your own pace, following the carefully planned route and listening to amazing stories. 

The tour starts in the Grand Gallery where you will explore the Natural World, World Cultures and Scottish History, and Archeology galleries. One of the highlights is the legendary Dolly the Sheep and learn that she wasn't the first-ever cloned mammal!

Admire the wildlife diversity and see any animal you can think of: from the prehistoric T. Rex to the unique Scottish wildcat.

Visiting the World Cultures galleries is the same as a round-the-world tour. You will see African masks, touch materials protecting people from Arctic colds, and learn about the life on the islands lost in the Pacific.

The Scottish galleries will reveal the history of Scotland from ancient times till the present day. Look at the legacy of Mary Queen of Scots and see the iconic Lewis chessmen that inspired the 'wizard chess' in Harry Potter movies. Finally, try to resolve the mystery of Arthur's Seat coffins that has never been solved.

Note! This tour is not affiliated with the National Museum of Scotland but is provided by an independent creator.

Edinburgh: National Museum of Scotland Audio Tour

This self-guided audio walk explores Edinburgh’s royal, religious, and civic history, making it a great fit if you enjoy first visits, old architecture, and stories tied to real places. You follow the route at your own pace, with narration that helps you notice what is right in front of you, from palace gates to stone closes and church spires.

The walk begins at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the royal residence sits against the dramatic rise of the Old Town. From there, you move along the Royal Mile past Canongate Kirk, John Knox House, and St Giles’ Cathedral, tracing centuries of power, worship, and debate through medieval streets lined with dark stone and tall tenements. The route then leads you to Greyfriars and on toward the castle area, before continuing to the National Galleries, Princes Street, and the ordered elegance of Edinburgh New Town.

Along the way, you will have memorable encounters with the contrast between palace and fortress, the crown-shaped crown steeple of St Giles’, the story of Greyfriars Bobby, sweeping views near Edinburgh Castle, and the sudden shift from the Old Town’s rugged lanes to the broad Georgian streets of New Town. It is a walk that lets you see how Edinburgh wears its history on every wall.

Edinburgh: Self-Guided Audio Walk Through Royal Mile History

Rising 251 meters above Edinburgh, Arthur's Seat is the highest point of the resident city volcano. Don't be alarmed: it erupted 350 million years ago, went extinct, and is now a harmless, beautiful hill in Holyrood Park. But the 360-degree panoramic view of the city it offers is as majestic as ever.

There are several routes leading up to Arthur's Seat. This one you're about to take follows a slow and steady path that doesn't involve a lot of climbing. You'll enter Holyrood Park via the Queen's Drive, walk around St Margaret's Loch, and up to St Anthony's Chapel. Then via the Dasses and Piper's Walk, you'll reach the main destination of the tour—Arthur's Seat and its subsidiary Crow Hill.

The trail back is going to be a bit steeper and more strenuous. But you will see the vertiginous cliffs of Raven's Rock and Hutton's Section and walk along the edge of awe-inspiring Salisbury Crags. After that, you'll descend into a valley and walk across Hunter's Bog, then exit the park and decide what you want to do next: visit the Dynamic Earth museum or hit the café in the same building.

Before you set foot on the path, make sure you have good walking shoes on. Hiking boots are not a must, but you'll have to tread dirt and rock on the slopes, and the footing will be uneven, so nothing flimsy would give you a good grip.
You'll also need some water and snacks—the walk there and back will take about two hours, so you will definitely want to have some refreshments along the way.

Edinburgh: Arthur's Seat Highland Hike Audio Tour

Experience 400 years of history and discover the stories of your character guide during a 1-hour guided tour of historic Edinburgh. 

Imagine a warren of streets frozen in time, where centuries of stories are just waiting to be told. Discover authentic truths about Edinburgh's dark past, and find out what it was really like for the people who lived, worked, and died on the Close.

Unlock the secrets of Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th-century street, wander through a labyrinth of underground alleyways, and avoid the cry of gardyloo.

From myths and legends to the deadly plague epidemic and a famous royal visitor – there’s a myriad of stories just waiting to be told.

The Real Mary King's Close: Entry Ticket

This self-guided audio walking tour explores Edinburgh’s Old Town through its civic landmarks, medieval streets, public art, and green spaces. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the city’s history and atmosphere while seeing famous sights up close.

Your route begins at Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile, where the stone facade and arcaded courtyard set the tone for the historic center. From there, you pass the Mercat Cross, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, the bronze statue of philosopher David Hume, and Makars' Court with its inscribed paving stones honoring Scottish writers. The walk then climbs toward the dramatic rock of Edinburgh Castle, continues by The Hub and the curving houses of Victoria Terrace, and drops into the broad open space of the Grassmarket.

The final stretch leads you through the solemn lanes of Greyfriars Kirkyard and into the National Museum of Scotland, before ending at The Meadows, where long tree-lined paths open out into one of the city’s best-loved parks.

Along the way, you can expect memorable views of dark volcanic stone, steep closes, castle walls high above the street, a heart-shaped mosaic underfoot, and the striking contrast between crowded medieval lanes and the calm green lawns at the finish.

Edinburgh: Self-Guided Audio Walk Through the Old Town

This self-guided audio walk introduces first-time visitors to Edinburgh’s historic core, with a route that suits travelers interested in medieval streets, grand landmarks, and the city’s layered stories. You will hear clear, lively narration as you move at your own pace through some of the most iconic scenes in the Scottish capital.

The route begins at Usher Hall, where the curved stone frontage and bronze details set a ceremonial tone. From there, you head toward Edinburgh Castle, perched high on its volcanic rock, then down into the lively Grassmarket, once a medieval market square. The walk continues through tucked-away corners such as Milne’s Court and Riddles Court, then follows the Royal Mile past Deacon Brodies Tavern, St Giles’ Cathedral, the City Chambers, Mercat Cross, and Anchor Close.

In the final stretch, you reach Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, spread below the Old Town ridge, before stepping into East Princes Street Gardens. The tour ends at the Scott Monument, a dark Gothic spire rising above the trees and shopfronts.

Along the way, the most memorable moments include castle views above the skyline, narrow closes opening suddenly off crowded streets, the crown-shaped tower of St Giles’, and the striking contrast between the stone heights of the Old Town and the green gardens below.

Edinburgh: Self-Guided Audio Walk Through the Old Town Heart

This in-app audio tour will guide you through timeless masterpieces of world art and Scottish artistic heritage housed in the Scottish National Gallery.

Keep in mind that this museum has a free (!) admission. By buying this audio tour, you don’t pay for your entry. However, you get an opportunity to explore the beauty of the museum at your own pace, following the carefully planned route, seeing the best the museum has to offer, and listening to amazing stories.

You will walk through the opulent rooms of the neoclassical jewel of Edinburgh and explore the highlights of the outstanding collection, including Botticelli, Titian, Velázquez, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and more.

The tour will take you from the Middle Age to Renaissance, from the Baroque to Rococo, and to the all-time favourite Impressionism. You will hear little-known facts about the artists whose names are on everyone's lips, and trace how art developed throughout history. 

On top of that, you will discover the unique art of Scotland with its own authentic artistic traditions. The gallery boasts breathtaking Scottish landscapes and scenes from everyday life you don't want to miss. Marvel at iconic portraits by Sir Henry Raeburn, and travel back in time to 18th-century Edinburgh with David Wilkie.

Note! This tour is not affiliated with the Scottish National Gallery but is provided by an independent creator.

Edinburgh: Scottish National Gallery Audio Tour

Discover the city’s most iconic monument with this self-guided audio tour.

Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland's capital city from its great volcanic summit. The story of the Castle has helped shape the nation's history: battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it.

Learn about the many Scottish monarchs it has sheltered, including Queen Margaret (later St Margaret), who died here in 1093, and Mary Queen of Scots, who gave birth to James VI in the Royal Palace in 1566.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of medieval royal intrigues and feel like a participant in historical events in a place where time has stopped.

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