Edinburgh Private Tour with a Local - Highlights & Hidden Gems

4.6
(70 reviews)
Edinburgh, Scotland

2 to 6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Edinburgh is a city of stories—and this experience is built around the ones that matter to you. Whether you're drawn to medieval intrigue, peaceful green corners, literary landmarks, or buzzing creative districts, your host will design a route that brings it all together.

After booking, you'll complete a short questionnaire so we can match you with a local who shares your interests. Together, you'll create a flexible, engaging itinerary filled with insight, character, and memorable moments that only a local perspective can offer.

What's Included

Online questionnaire link sent after booking to tailor your experience and match you to a local host
Flexible durations and start times - Pick your preferred duration when you book
Get picked up (on foot) at your accommodation if it's central!
Private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local
Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations
Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions
Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

This is a private walking experience. Your host will meet you at your selected hotel, and the tour will begin on foot. If you’d prefer to meet at a central location instead, please choose the meeting point option. If your hotel isn’t on the list, simply select the central landmark option. Once you’ve booked, our Experience Planners will get in touch to confirm the meeting point and help with any final details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your personalized tour. NO private vehicle is included. For longer distances, your host may suggest using public transport. Any transport costs can be settled on the day.

OR
Meeting point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 to 6 hours (approximately)
  • Edinburgh (Pass by)

    Explore a city where gothic spires pierce the skyline and centuries-old streets buzz with creativity. With a local host who knows Edinburgh beyond the guidebooks, you'll uncover its rich contrasts—charming villages beside royal avenues, quiet closes hiding bold stories, and neighborhoods alive with tradition and new ideas. This experience is shaped entirely around your interests and pace. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to help us design the perfect route. Here are some locations that might shape your itinerary:

    Admission ticket free
  • New Town (Pass by)

    Start your walk in New Town, where broad streets, grand architecture, and peaceful gardens reflect Edinburgh’s elegant transformation. Your host will highlight independent galleries, cultural institutions, and the civic vision that helped shape the city.

    Admission ticket free
  • Scott Monument (Pass by)

    Pause beneath this dramatic tribute to Sir Walter Scott and take in views that inspired a literary legacy. Your host will share how Edinburgh earned its title as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.

    Admission ticket free
  • Royal Mile (Pass by)

    Venture along the Royal Mile, where historic buildings and shadowy closes tell the stories of monarchs, merchants, and city life through the centuries. This iconic stretch is Edinburgh’s spine, and your host will bring it vividly to life.

    Admission ticket free
  • Grassmarket (Pass by)

    This historic square offers sweeping views, colorful folklore, and vibrant local culture. Once a marketplace and site of public executions, Grassmarket is now a hub of creative energy and a window into the city’s evolving identity.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Tucked along the Water of Leith, Dean Village feels far removed from the city’s bustle. With cobbled lanes and stone cottages, this tranquil enclave offers a picturesque glimpse into Edinburgh’s past.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This is a private City Unscripted experience: real people, real connections
Supplied by City Unscripted

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Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.6 Based on 70 70 reviews
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Likely to sell out
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