You booked this experience
Make your trip unforgettable

Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Historic Old Town

7 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 7 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Edinburgh, Scotland
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh's Old Town on this guided walking tour. Start at the iconic Tron Kirk, then wander through the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral, learning about its gothic architecture and the impact of John Knox. Enjoy breathtaking views from the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and explore the photogenic Victoria Street, famous for its colorful shopfronts. Delve into the stories of Grassmarket, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and the University of Edinburgh, where you’ll uncover tales of royalty, rebellion, and the supernatural.

- Explore iconic landmarks like St Giles' Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle's exterior
- Hear fascinating stories about Scotland's royal history and notorious figures
- Visit vibrant areas like Victoria Street and Grassmarket, filled with history
- Ideal for history enthusiasts and fans of Scottish culture and legends

What's Included

  • Tour Guide
  • Food and Drink
See 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

122 High Street
Edinburgh EH1 1SG, UK

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

St Giles' Cathedral (pass by)

Admire its gothic spire and learn about the powerful influence of John Knox, the leader of the Scottish Reformation. The cathedral has borne witness to royal parades, violent uprisings, and landmark moments in Scottish Presbyterianism.
Read more

Edinburgh City Chambers

Home to the Edinburgh Council. While the building itself is impressive, the true treasure lies in the stories behind its governance—from ancient burgh laws to modern political developments.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Victoria Street

With its colourful shopfronts and medieval curve, it’s no surprise this street is often cited as inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Your guide will share stories of its creation, its traders, and how it once hosted public executions.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Grassmarket

An historic marketplace that once doubled as a site for public hangings. Today it’s a lively area filled with pubs and stories. Hear darkly fascinating tales of criminals, innkeepers, and the infamous duo Burke and Hare—Edinburgh’s most notorious grave robbers.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Edinburgh Castle (pass by)

While the tour doesn’t enter the castle, pause on the Esplanade to take in the breathtaking views and hear the castle’s epic history—from royal sieges and military strategy to the Stone of Destiny and the One O’Clock Gun.
Read more

Greyfriars Kirk

This ancient cemetery is the resting place of many notable Scots—including George Heriot and members of the Covenanter movement. Hear the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, and explore stories of the supernatural.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

University of Edinburgh

Here, guests will learn about the university’s founding in 1583, its Enlightenment-era thinkers like David Hume and Adam Ferguson, and the city’s role in shaping modern philosophy, medicine, and law.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 6 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Historic Old Town?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-75760P433

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
7 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 7 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
7
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

Similar Tours & Activities

Private Guided Day Tour in Scottish Highlands

First and foremost, traveling in our spacious executive cars ensures a comfortable and luxurious journey for you and your group. Our vehicles are designed with …More

First and foremost, traveling in our spacious executive cars ensures a comfortable and luxurious journey for you and your group. Our vehicles are designed with...

8 to 9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (15)
from
$1,234

Private Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

Exploring Scottish Highlands in a private vehicle with a full day experience. Enjoy the most beautiful Scottish Highlands sceneries. Hear the history of the Glencoe …More

Exploring Scottish Highlands in a private vehicle with a full day experience. Enjoy the most beautiful Scottish Highlands sceneries. Hear the history of the Glencoe...

12 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (3)
from
$1,398

Speyside Whisky Tour - Three Distilleries Included - Private - 5 Star Reviews

****** Private Tour ***** Three distilleries included ***** Visit at least three Speyside distilleries in one day for a distillery tour and tutored tasting at …More

****** Private Tour ***** Three distilleries included ***** Visit at least three Speyside distilleries in one day for a distillery tour and tutored tasting at...

12 to 14 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.5 (21)
from
$781

Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Seals Tour

Explore the incredible castles of Northumberland, known not only for their beauty but also cinematic fame. The mighty Bamburgh Castle featured as 'Bebbanburg' in the …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

Explore the incredible castles of Northumberland, known not only for their beauty but also cinematic fame. The mighty Bamburgh Castle featured as 'Bebbanburg' in the...

9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (11)
from
$912

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Port of Leith Distillery Tour and Tasting

The Port of Leith Distillery is a remarkable new landmark in Edinburgh’s historic whisky district of Leith. This is the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

The Port of Leith Distillery is a remarkable new landmark in Edinburgh’s historic whisky district of Leith. This is the UK’s first vertical whisky distillery...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,016)
from
$34

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 1-day adventure into the heart of the Scottish Highlands where the legendary Loch Ness await. Experience a day packed with incredible …More

Embark on an unforgettable 1-day adventure into the heart of the Scottish Highlands where the legendary Loch Ness await. Experience a day packed with incredible...

12 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (6,925)
from
$67

The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh

A chocolate experience to remember! Fully indoors and perfect come rain or sunshine! See and touch the fruit of the chocolate tree, and learn all …More

A chocolate experience to remember! Fully indoors and perfect come rain or sunshine! See and touch the fruit of the chocolate tree, and learn all...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (4,836)
from
$38

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

Scotland’s second-most-popular tourist attraction as you learn about the bloody history including stories of the kings and queens who lived in this castle. There is …More

Scotland’s second-most-popular tourist attraction as you learn about the bloody history including stories of the kings and queens who lived in this castle. There is...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (6,184)
from
$56

What's Included

Activity name

  • Tour Guide
  • Food and Drink

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name