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Cultural & Theme Tours in Edinburgh

Live prices, traveller ratings and availability. Edinburgh guide

850 tours & activities

'A Wee Pedal's' Family Friendly Cycle Tour to Edinburgh's Coast (opens in a new tab)

59 3 h

Why book with A wee pedal? We are Visit Scotland's award winning 'Best outdoor experience' praised for high quality guest experience whilst supporting the local community. We have no need to use vehicles as we start right on the cycle path and are proudly named a zero-carbon company. Groups are kept small for high guest experience and safety and you'll learn about this ancient city whilst having a lot of fun with our qualified and experienced guides. This is a fun ride with the promise of an ice cream (or coffee!) on the beach or inside to warm up if in winter. It is a 12 mile round trip. You will start right in the heart of Craigmillar Castle grounds, close to the city centre and easily accessed by foot, bus, taxi or car (there is free on-site parking) E-bikes can be hired at an additional cost of £25pp cash on the day. Please let me know if you would like this option. UK regulations mean age 14 is the minimum age to ride an E bike. Guests must be able to ride a bike safely.

from$84.21

Stone & Story: Rosslyn Chapel & Melrose Abbey Private Day Trip (opens in a new tab)

13 8 h

Indulge in a truly lavish exploration of Scotland's cultural and historical treasures with TRIPorganiser's exclusive private day trip from Edinburgh. Embark on a captivating journey through time as you uncover the intricate wonders of Rosslyn Chapel and the timeless allure of Melrose Abbey and follow the footsteps of famous writers. Operated by a dedicated local family-run business, we're committed to curating authentic travel experiences that resonate with the soul. Join us for a day of heritage, relaxation, and the unmatched charm of Scotland's storied landmarks on this one-of-a-kind tour.

from$1,073

Central Scotland Driving Tour - Stirlingshire (Private) (opens in a new tab)

25 7 h

Discover whats beyond the city walls on your very own full day private tour of central Scotland in our Land Rover Discovery. See the castles, the lochs, the hills and even some of the filming locations that makes Scotland the stunning country it is today. All our tours can be personalised to your needs and be as action packed or relaxed as you want.

from$747

Private Braveheart Day Tour ,small group tours from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

3 6 h – 7 h

Braveheart tour Embark on a thrilling journey through Scotland’s epic history with the Braveheart Tour, exploring the landmarks that shaped the nation’s fight for independence. Stand on hallowed ground at the Bannockburn Battlefield, where Robert the Bruce secured Scotland’s freedom in 1314. View the Robert the Bruce statue and relive this pivotal moment in Scottish history. Visit Stirling Castle, a majestic fortress that played a key strategic role in the Wars of Independence. Wander through its grand halls, explore the royal apartments, and imagine the battles fought on the fields below. Visit the National Wallace Monument, where you'll learn about William Wallace’s heroic legacy and enjoy panoramic views from Abbey Craig. Marvel at Wallace’s legendary 6 feet long sword and discover the stories that inspired the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the battlefield.This small group tour is a must for anyone captivated by Scotland's turbulent history

from$672

Private Old Edinburgh Tour - Walk in the footsteps of Royals and Rogues! (opens in a new tab)

244 2 h

Welcome to Historic Edinburgh Tours! We will take you on a fascinating journey through the historic streets of the Old Town. You'll get to explore the very places where some of Scotland's most famous (and infamous) characters once walked and lived. From Mary, Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie, Deacon Brodie and more, this is an unmissable opportunity to discover Edinburgh's rich history. Robert, your local guide, will come dressed in a kilt for your private tour. He will also carry a book of archive images. Robert will show you the city's iconic landmarks while sharing fascinating insights into its past. With our archive images, you'll be able to see how Edinburgh has changed over the years - and even compare it to its present-day counterpart. This is an experience not to be missed for history buffs and tourists alike!

from$115

Edinburgh: Loch Ness & Highlands Privately Guided Luxury Day Tour (opens in a new tab)

14 12 h

Embark on a journey through the Highlands on this one day tour, where you’ll get to visit Scotland’s famous Loch Ness - with a chance to spot Nessie! As you travel through Scotland, your guide will take you through the Great Glen and the breathtaking views of Rannoch Moor, where you can learn about Scotland's turbulent history. Explore Fort Augustus and marvel at the Caledonian Canal before your penultimate stop at Pitlochry. Let us take the stress out of travel as you escape fixed itineraries and crowded buses. Sit back, relax and enjoy a private tour designed exclusively for you and your group, featuring: • A Private Day Tour tailored to your preferences. • An Expert Local Guide with decades of experience. • A Convenient Door-to-Door Service from your hotel or accommodation. • Travel in Style and Comfort aboard a luxurious Mercedes-Benz V-Class Minivan.

from$679

Stirling Castle and Best of Falkirk Private Shore Ex Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

4 8 h

Maximise your time ashore and let Macleod Heilan Tours take you on a Scottish adventure through some of the best historical locations in Scotland. This tour gives you a real flavour of Scotland with a visit to the magnificent Kelpies a huge 100ft steel structure which pays homage to one of Scotland’s most famous mythical beasts along with a visit to other Falkirk gems the Falkirk Wheel & Callander House. The Falkirk wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world and is a marvel of Scottish engineering giving you a feel for Scotland’s industrial past. Callendar house is a 14th century estate that has played host to many great historical figures over the centuries, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie and more recently being used for filming of the popular tv show Outlander. The main highlight of the day is a visit to the mighty Stirling Castle which is a real testament to Scotland’s past where many of our most famous battles were fought and won.

from$509

Scone Palace, Nature, Pitlochry, Whisky Experience from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

5 8 h

Step into the footsteps of former Scottish royalty, as we visit Scone Palace, the original home to the ‘Stone of Destiny’ in the Royal burgh of Perthshire - the crowning place of Scottish kings. Take a stroll under Scotland’s tallest tress, marvel at the waterfall from Ossian’s Hall and touch the wishing tree in the Hermitage forest in Dunkeld. Lunch at Taste, Perthshire, the main attraction here is to 'hand feed' our much loved 'Highland Coos'. Immerse yourself in the Whisky-making process in Tullibardine Distillery followed by a couple of 'drams'. Visit our last attraction; the (in)famous Doune Castle, featured in Outlander, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Game of Thrones.

from$788

St Andrews, Stirling Castle Private Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

1 8 h 30 min

Embark on an exclusive adventure through Scotland's historic treasures with our private guided tour! Begin at the majestic Stirling Castle, where echoes of royal intrigue fill the air. Marvel at its grandeur before we whisk you off to the hallowed grounds of St Andrews, home to golfing legends and scholarly pursuits. Tee off at The Old Course, steeped in centuries of golfing lore, then immerse yourself in academia at St Andrews University, where knowledge thrives amidst ancient halls. Delve into history at St Salvator's Chapel and St Andrews Castle, where tales of knights and monarchs come alive. Finally, stand in awe at the haunting ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, a testament to Scotland's enduring legacy. Crossing the iconic Forth Road Bridge, each stop promises a glimpse into the past, leaving you spellbound by Scotland's rich heritage.

from$951

City of Edinburgh Shore Excursion (opens in a new tab)

6 8 h

Discover the best of Scotland’s capital on a semi-private tour designed for cruise guests who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing loop. With small group sizes, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and immersive experience led by a local guide who knows how to bring Edinburgh’s layered history to life. Your day combines a panoramic drive through the Georgian elegance of the New Town with a guided walking tour of the Old Town, where cobbled closes and historic landmarks reveal the city’s medieval past. From the Royal Mile to Victoria Street and the Vennel Steps, your guide shares fascinating stories that make the streets come alive. With entrance to Edinburgh Castle included, you’ll cap off the day with a self-guided visit to Scotland’s most iconic stronghold, complete with sweeping city views. This carefully curated itinerary offers the perfect balance of storytelling, scenery, and independence—far from the crowds of larger tours.

from$295

8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

131 8 days

Spend an unforgettable 8 days with us as we explore Scotland's North Coast 500, Isle of Skye and Orkney Isles. Discover Scotland's most beautiful sites from Dunrobin Castle to Skara Brae, the Isle of Skye and the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train. Immerse yourself in Scotland's rich history with one of our fantastic guides, and make lifelong memories along the way.

from$2,525

5 Day Orkney Islands and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

14 5 days

Experience an extra small group tour of up to only 16 clients. Discover the Cairngorms National Park, with its dramatic landscapes. Savor the flavors of Scotch whisky on a distillery tour, then visit the historic Culloden Battlefield and the ancient Clava Cairns. Embark on the North Coast 500 drive, where amazing coastal scenery awaits! Cross by boat to the Orkney Islands, admire the Italian Chapel, and experience more Highland whisky! Journey back in time to see Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, the Stenness Standing Stones, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, surrounded by incredible island scenery. Return to the mainland to visit John O’Groats, walk along the beautiful coastlines, explore Castle Sinclair, and admire the remarkable Camster Cairns. Don’t miss the grand elegance of Dunrobin Castle and Gardens! End your adventure with a cruise on Loch Ness, the dramatic Glencoe, and the peacefulness of Loch Lomond before ending the tour in Edinburgh.

from$917

6 Day Outer Hebrides, Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train (opens in a new tab)

238 6 days

Join us on an unforgettable journey across the Highlands and Islands, where we discover some of Scotland’s most iconic destinations, as well as the hidden gems; from the world-famous Loch Ness to the remote corners of the Hebrides. We explore by rail, land and sea, from beach to battlefield, castle to coastal town; where stunning scenery, ancient monuments, and whisky are guaranteed. Capture treasured pictures of the magical Isle of Skye and Glen Coe, while we keep you entertained with myths, legends, and tales from our rich history. Venture beyond the classic tourist trail on this extended adventure and prepare to fall in love with our beautiful wee country.

from$1,737

3 Day Private Tour of Isle of Skye, Glencoe, Inverness, Loch Ness (opens in a new tab)

18 3 days

Witness the Isle of Skye and witness its breathtaking natural beauty: from crystal clear beaches with dinosaur foot prints, to magical water falls, fairy pools, dramatic landscapes and quaint towns. Visit Glen Shiel and watch the Jacobite Train (aka Hogwarts Express) cross Glenfinnan Viaduct. Visit Eilean Donan, the most famous castle in Scotland, and Glencoe a mountain valley renowned worldwide for its poignant beauty. Take a cruise on Loch Ness, the largest lake in Britain. Visit Clava Cairns, a 4,000 year-old site that pre-dates the great pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge! Walk the battlefield where the Jacobites lost their final battle. Meet and hand-feed our iconic Highland Cows, and relax in the quaint Victorian town of Pitlochry. Do all this and more in our 3-day tour of Skye and the Highlands! Just let us know if you want to customise this itinerary, or a different 3-day itinerary. We are more than happy to customise it according to your bucket list!

from$3,599

Stirling Luxury Private Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

6 8 h

Your Stirling and Wallace Monument sightseeing excursion takes in the Gateway to the Highlands, using a luxury Mercedes Benz vehicle and a local chauffeur with years of Scottish experience. Your day is planned to cover all the sights and attractions that Stirling the Gateway to the Highlands have to offer, with no waiting for other passengers so if there is something you really want to see we will ensure it is added to your itinerary. Just remember this is Your Day, Your Way! With Door to Door service from Edinburgh, complimentary Bottled Water and Wi-Fi Access you truly are getting that First Class experience.

from$764

Edinburgh: Mary Queen of Scots Privately Guided Luxury Day Tour (opens in a new tab)

5 8 h

For history enthusiasts and admirers of Mary Queen of Scots, this tour will take you through her remarkable, yet tragic life. Follow her footsteps, as you explore her favourite palaces, homes, and scenic views. From Linlithgow Palace to Stirling Castle and Falkland Palace, you’ll get to experience not only the history of this iconic monarch, but also the beauty of Scotland as you travel from place to place. Let us take the stress out of travel as you escape fixed itineraries and crowded buses. Sit back, relax and enjoy a private tour designed exclusively for you and your group, featuring: • A Private Day Tour tailored to your preferences. • An Expert Local Guide with decades of experience. • A Convenient Door-to-Door Service from your hotel or accommodation. • Travel in Style and Comfort aboard a luxurious Mercedes-Benz V-Class Minivan.

from$577

Steamship Cruise, Sheepdog Demo, Foraging Walk, Trossachs Trail (opens in a new tab)

3 8 h

Take a cruise on the 124-year-old Steamship Sir Walter Scott. Explore the Trossachs Trail and the birthplace of Scottish tourism, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Go foraging with a professional herbalist and learn about the history and use of the wild plants and herbs around you. Marvel at a sheepdog in action, visit a working eco farm, meet their beautiful animals and sample some artisanal goat's milk ice cream made daily. Meet and feed our famous 'Highland Coos', and visit the tallest equine statues in the world!

from$937

Edinburgh: Aberdeenshire, Balmoral Castle and the Northeast Coast (opens in a new tab)

8 2 days

Our 2-day tour starts at 09:00 from Edinburgh. Passing the iconic Forth Bridges, we head to Dundee, known for its V&A Museum. We continue north to Montrose for lunch, famous for seafood. Next, St Cyrus and Dunnottar Castle await, offering rugged coastline views and rich history. In Stonehaven, explore the town before heading to Aberdeen for overnight stay. Day 2 begins with a visit to Crathes Castle west of Aberdeen, renowned for its gardens and history. Lunch in Ballater precedes our tour of Balmoral Castle, the Highland retreat of the British Monarchy. Heading south, we stop at Devil’s Elbow for Highland vistas and wildlife spotting. After a break in Perth, known for its ancient history, we return to Edinburgh via the Forth Bridges, concluding our journey.

from$225

Private Edinburgh Walking Tour Harry Potter & History (opens in a new tab)

10 2 h

This private walking tour explores Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and its cultural heritage. Stroll medieval streets that inspired J.K. Rowling’s imagination. Admire classical architecture along Victoria Street and ancient façades of the City Chambers. Visit The Elephant House, where the series began, and discover names at Greyfriars Kirkyard. Observe George Heriot’s School, an example of Scotland’s classical architectural legacy. Conclude near The Balmoral Hotel, where the final book was completed. Throughout the tour, you experience centuries of Edinburgh’s history, architecture, and storytelling tradition, connecting literary magic with the city’s rich past. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

from$719

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