Edinburgh Walking Tour Discovering History and Architecture

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2 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Explore the rich tapestry of Edinburgh from the historic Grassmarket to the elegant New Town. This walking tour starts in the Grassmarket, goes up Victoria Street to the Royal Mile and finishing down in New Town.

Discover the history of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, while hearing local stories from the vibrant Grassmarket. Visit Makars Court to learn about Edinburgh's literary significance and the legacy of Deacon Brodie. Stroll past St. Giles' Cathedral and Parliament Square, uncovering tales of the Reformation and the infamous witch trials. Marvel at the Scott Monument and the Balmoral Hotel, before concluding the journey in St. Andrews Square, reflecting on the Age of Enlightenment.

- Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO heritage and literary history
- View iconic landmarks including Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles' Cathedral
- Enjoy stories from locals in the historic Grassmarket
- Learn about the architectural evolution from Old Town to New Town

What's Included

Guiding fee
Gratuities are optional, never expected but always appreciated

Meeting and pickup

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

Your guide will be waiting outside 4 Grassmarket (Cold Town Brewing)

OR
Meeting point

Just out on the street from 4 Grassmarket (Cold Town Brewing) is where you guide will meet you. Although the tour starts in Old Town, it will end in New Town

End point
Saint Andrew Square

This tour will end at St.Andrews Square in Edinburgh New Town

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Grassmarket

    We start off ou tour in Edinburgh Grassmarket which is a vibrant and historic area nestled in the heart of the Old Town, just beneath the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Tourists visiting the Grassmarket can enjoy a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and lively modern culture. Once a medieval marketplace and site for public executions, today it offers a much more cheerful atmosphere with its cobbled streets lined with traditional pubs, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Here we will learn about the markets, why there are so many pubs and what happened to those who were punished there.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Victoria Street

    Our tour takes you up Victoria Street which is a delightful street filled with charm, history, and unique finds. This iconic, curved street is one of the most photographed in the city, known for its vibrant, multicolored buildings and its connection to J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, but is this really the case? Let us help you sort out fact from fiction and get recommendations of great local places to eat, drink and shop

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Makars' Court is a hidden literary gem nestled in Edinburgh's historic Old Town, just off the Royal Mile in Lady Stair’s Close. Adjacent to the Writers’ Museum, this open-air courtyard serves as an evolving national literary monument, celebrating Scotland’s rich literary heritage. Here we can can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the courtyard, often described as a peaceful retreat from the bustling Royal Mile and find out about one of Edinburgh's most infamous characters who helped inspire a famous work of fiction.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Iconic Tours

Tags

Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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