Best Tours in Edinburgh

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.