Edinburgh tours

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh dances to the tune of its own bagpipes: a city where the past and present waltz together in an enchanting tapestry of culture and history. As you meander through its storied streets, your local guide will transform Edinburgh tours into a personal adventure. Feel the cobblestones underfoot on a walking tour of the Royal Mile, where every corner unveils a new layer of Scotland's rich heritage. Relish the flavours of a food and wine tour, or enjoy the luxury of a skip-the-line experience at the iconic Edinburgh Castle. With private tours in Edinburgh, you'll dive beyond the surface, uncovering the city's hidden stories and vibrant spirit. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Edinburgh. Explore Edinburgh your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Edinburgh tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Edinburgh for every interest, including: History tours: Walk the Royal Mile with your local guide, step into hidden closes, and hear true tales at Greyfriars Kirkyard before seeing the Castle esplanade and the 1 o’clock gun. You can also pair Holyrood Palace views with a peek at Canongate Kirkyard on a private tour shaped around your interests. Nature and Wildlife tours: Hike up Arthur’s Seat or along the Salisbury Crags to watch for kestrels and take in big views, then unwind on the Water of Leith walkway spotting herons near Dean Village. Your guide can tailor easy urban rambles or longer park outings for relaxed, nature‑focused tours. Layover tours: Get met at Edinburgh Airport and zip into the city for a timed route that fits your connection, from Calton Hill’s skyline lookout to a quick Royal Mile wander and photo stops by the Castle. Your guide will pace the tour to your schedule and bring you back to the terminal on time. The Old Town and New Town are very walkable, and Lothian Buses plus the tram make it easy to reach major sights and the airport. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Edinburgh inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Edinburgh on a private walking tour and dive into its diverse neighborhoods with a local guide by your side. Uncover the city's unique charm through its lively streets and hidden gems. - Old Town: Perfect for history buffs and cultural tourists, this area is steeped in history with its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Families will enjoy the engaging stories and medieval architecture. - New Town: Known for its Georgian elegance and upscale shops, New Town is great for those who appreciate architecture and a refined shopping experience. Multi-generational groups can find something for everyone here. - Leith: This waterfront district offers a unique blend of maritime history and modern culture. Ideal for tourists seeking meaningful connections, Leith boasts a vibrant arts scene and diverse dining options. - Stockbridge: With its village-like feel, Stockbridge is perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring boutique shops. Families and groups will appreciate the Sunday market and charming cafes. - Grassmarket: A lively area with historic pubs and bustling life, Grassmarket is a hub for cultural tourists looking to dive into Edinburgh’s social scene. Enjoy street performances and local flavors in this vibrant quarter. Day trip ideas from Edinburgh From Edinburgh, you can plan easy day trips to coasts, castles, and lochs, choosing tours that fit your pace, interests, and time without a long drive. Stirling and the Trossachs: Stirling Castle and battle stories set the scene, then forests and lochs bring big views nearby, and your tour can balance time at the castle with a quiet lochside walk or a village stop in the national park. St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife: Medieval lanes, university buildings, cathedral and castle ruins, and the Old Course viewpoint meet a wide beach and fishing harbours like Anstruther, so you can lean into golf history, coastal photos, or fresh seafood in small towns. Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders: Intricate stonework at the chapel pairs well with calm Border towns, Melrose Abbey, or Abbotsford, which suits fans of architecture, legends, and river scenery, and your tour can keep things simple with short drives and unhurried stops. Loch Lomond and Luss: Village cottages, clear water, and easy paths make a low‑key day on the loch, and you can add a short climb like Conic Hill for views or a boat option if you want more time on the water. Glasgow: A quick city swap with bold architecture by Mackintosh, street art, and free museums like Kelvingrove, which works for design, music, and food fans, and your tour can focus on neighbourhoods, the River Clyde, or galleries in the city centre. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Edinburgh most travellers miss.