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Royal Mile & Old Town Walk

Guided tours in Edinburgh

Royal Mile & Old Town Walk, Edinburgh

In a nutshell

The main street of the Old Town, running from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with closes, churches and the hidden lanes that lead off it.

Rating & popularity

#2 of 11

in our Edinburgh guide

Visit duration

2 h 30 min

Usually no booking needed

Tourist load through the year

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The main street of the Old Town, running from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with closes, churches and the hidden lanes that lead off it.

Know before you go

Look down the narrow closes and wynds. Many have stories, and some lead to hidden courtyards.

What to book

A guided Old Town walk, especially one that includes the underground vaults.

What to check before you pay

  • Look for a stated group size cap.
  • Check the language of the tour and whether headsets are provided.
  • Check whether entry to the main site is included or just a walk around it.

Royal Mile & Old Town Walk tours & tickets

Related tours, tickets & activities

Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile Walking Tour - Ticket Included (opens in a new tab)

2,963 2 h 15 min

Make the most of your time in Edinburgh with our guided walking tour that combines a walk on the historic Royal Mile and a guided visit inside Edinburgh Castle (entry included). The tour will begin on the Royal Mile, where your guide will lead you through cobbled streets, sharing fascinating stories of Scotland’s past and pointing out iconic landmarks like St. Giles' Cathedral, the colourful Victoria Street, and the Grassmarket with its vibrant atmosphere. Uncover Edinburgh castle's rich history and visit the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Great Hall, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city. Learn about the dramatic life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and experience the One O’Clock Cannon firing. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to keep exploring the roofed buildings of the castle at your own pace.

from$72.64

Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Small Group Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,937 2 h 15 min

Edinburgh’s Master Storytellers, Mercat Tours, are redefining the walking tour, promising to enrich and deepen your connection with Edinburgh’s people and its past far beyond your visit. Take the Story Home: evoke the memories: - Listen to the tour playlist The castle towers over Edinburgh from up high on its ancient volcanic rock – a literal fortress, looking out over the city’s stunning landscapes. Battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it. Step into Edinburgh Castle alongside your Master Storyteller, with all entry arrangements handled so you can stay immersed in the story. As a certified B Corporation, we're dedicated to responsible tourism practices that benefit our community and environment. Join an unrivalled journey into Edinburgh's past, engaging all the senses to create a truly memorable experience that lasts long after your visit.

from$71.27

Edinburgh Royal Mile and Old Town Small Group Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,659 3 h

This tour is led by Edinburgh Guided Tour — a small team of exceptional Guides, including PHD Historians, a Professor, and a Museum Manager. Each guide handpicked for their intelligence and warmth. Their passion for Edinburgh shines through in every story they tell, from royal scandal to Enlightenment genius, from Harry Potter to historical rogues. We keep our group size small — never more than 12 guests — so every participant enjoys a personal experience. No straining to hear in a crowd of 30! Our guests consistently give us amazing reviews. These are not your average guides. They will Make History Come Alive. • Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Mile and surrounds • See the secret closes and wynds and all of the major sites • Learn of the famous writers, poets, and economists who have made Edinburgh their home • Visit famous landmarks such as St Giles Cathedral, Grassmarket, and Greyfriars’ Kirkyard • Take the opportunity to capture some amazing photographic opportunities

from$47.97

Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town (opens in a new tab)

9,612 1 h

Journey along Edinburgh's Royal Mile hearing some of Edinburgh's darker history before visiting the infamous hidden and supposedly haunted vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults by candlelight, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike, said by some to now be occupied by a few of the spirits of these inhabitants long since dead. Each vault has stories of crime, disease, death and lots more... with which your guide shall enlighten you in all the gory details! You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by a Wiccan coven and you will enter their former temple. Join us to learn why it is no longer safe for them to practice their craft in that vault. DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle?

from$32.89

Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour - Entry Tickets Included (opens in a new tab)

5,924 1 h 30 min

We pre-collect your tickets so that our Castle Tour gives you easy access into Scotland's most iconic fortification. The 1h30 long tour will cover the 3000 year history of Edinburgh Castle and the significant role it has played in shaping Scotland. Tour leaves from our start point at 192 High Street, by the statue of Adam Smith.

from$53.45

Prices and availability are confirmed with our booking partner when you book.

Royal Mile & Old Town Walk: other ways to book

Other tickets and tours for the same sights

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