Cultural & Theme Tours in Edinburgh

Lochs & Legends: A Private Day Tour to Loch Ness from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

1 10 h

This private Loch Ness tour takes you through some of the most scenic and storied landscapes in the Highlands - from dramatic glens to quiet lochside villages. Your day begins in Callander, a picturesque gateway to the Trossachs. From there, the journey winds north through rolling hills to Tyndrum, a peaceful Highland stop surrounded by sweeping views - perfect for a short break and a warm drink. Next, you’ll travel through the awe-inspiring valley of Glencoe. With its towering peaks and powerful history, it’s one of Scotland’s most iconic and unforgettable places. At the southern tip of Loch Ness, the village of Fort Augustus offers a great spot to pause by the canal and take in the view across the water - keep your eyes peeled for a ripple from Nessie. Following the loch’s quieter southern shore, you’ll visit Foyers, where the Falls of Foyers cascade through a wooded gorge. It’s a beautiful and often overlooked corner of the Highlands - calm, atmospheric, and full of hidden charm.

Free cancellation

Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands Private Tour (opens in a new tab)

65 7 h – 8 h

Venture into the heart of the Scottish Highlands and along the mysterious waters of Loch Ness with our Private Day Tour. Explore Glencoe, designed for those who desire an intimate and personalized Scottish experience. Perfect for families, friends, or special occasions, this exclusive tour promises not just a journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, but a personalized adventure tailored to your interests and pace. From historic battlefields to breathtaking natural wonders, enjoy the luxury of a private guide and vehicle, ensuring your exploration of Loch Ness and the Highlands is as unforgettable as the legends themselves.

Free cancellation

Mary Queen of Scots Luxury Private Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

1 8 h

Follow the journey of our beloved and treasured Queen, your Mary Queen of Scots Private Excursion is a fantastic way to explore many of the locations connected to Mary during her time in Scotland. With the Mary Queen of Scots film this is an ideal time to explore the story first hand. On this Excursion, you get a chance to explore some of the below locations • Linlithgow Palace • Stirling Castle • Falkland Palace • Lochleven Castle • Craigmillar Castle  So indulge in the story of our Queen on your own luxury excursion. No waiting for other passengers remember you call the shots this is Your Day, Your Way! With Door to Door service from Edinburgh along with complimentary Bottled Water and Wi-Fi Access you truly are getting that First Class experience the Scottish Way. *Some Attractions are not open all year round and are subject to closure, we will always advise if this is the case on booking and offer alternatives.

Free cancellation

Edinburgh Tour Half Day (opens in a new tab)

3 3 min – 30 min

This is a half day tour of Edinburgh city. We will take you through the city pointing out historic sites of interest and important facts. We make stops for picturesque moments in the city. This is a bespoke tour as we can add or remove where we visit to suit you.

Free cancellation

3 Hours Edinburgh City Highlights Private Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

4 3 h

Explore Edinburgh the way you want to, spend quality time with a local, and get a real taste of our beautiful city on our most extensive tour of the city in 3 hours. With flexible meeting and end points, and a dedicated local guide, maximize your time in Edinburgh on a private tour. The city with everything - castles, volcanoes, history on every corner, a world-leading University, and an incredible arts scene. There is so much to see in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. Connect with a local guide and immerse yourself in the tales and sights of Edinburgh’s Old Town. From its historic roots to modern life in the city today, this leisurely 3-hour wander of the cobbled streets and alleyways will give you a great overview and introduction to Scotland’s capital city. The tour will take in the classics, from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile as well as many more hidden secrets only known by our true local experts!

Free cancellation

Private Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour: Castles & Old Town Sight (opens in a new tab)

1 8 h

Step into Edinburgh’s fascinating history on a private full day walking tour through the city’s ancient streets, historic Old Town, winding wynds, and hidden passages. Discover the stories behind Edinburgh’s castles, monuments, royal landmarks, battles, lost heads, and legendary characters as your local guide reveals the secrets most visitors miss. Explore the unique identity of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, uncovering fascinating places where kings were crowned, wars were won, and unforgettable legends were born. With Hearts and Highlands, go beyond the typical sightseeing route and experience the authentic stories that have shaped Scotland’s capital. Note: The King’s Gallery at Holyroodhouse has seasonal opening hours: daily in summer and Thursday–Monday in winter, with shorter winter opening days.

Private Harry Potter Tour - Discover JK Rowling's Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

3 2 h

Join your own private Potterhead guide to discover the best of Edinburgh–perfect for families and groups! See the sights that inspired JK Rowling’s wizarding universe, and learn secret stories and fun facts along the way! Starting at Tron Kirk on The Royal Mile, we first head to historic Waverley Station. Then head to Edinburgh University Old College – a famous old campus that provided lots of inspiration for JK Rowling’s creations We continue through the atmospheric Old Town, stopping at Greyfriars Kirkyard which is home to Tom Riddle’s Grave and passing by the Elephant Café where JK Rowling sat for many hours dreaming up her wizarding world! Get amazing views of Edinburgh Castle on our way to Victoria Street –said to be the inspiration for a very famous wizarding alley –and we finish near Edinburgh City Chambers where you’ll learn about JK Rowling’s impact on the city Ideal for families and groups, this fun-filled Potter tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Edinburgh!

Free cancellation

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, Distillery Private Tour (opens in a new tab)

3 9 h

Experience the magic of Scotland on a tour that takes you through some of its most iconic and beautiful destinations. This unique journey will take you on a breathtaking adventure that includes a visit to the famous Forth Bridge, the stunning Glengoyne distillery where you'll learn about the art of whisky-making, and the charming Luss Village on the shores of Loch Lomond. You'll also get to explore the historic Stirling Castle and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of Scotland's rich heritage. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and world-renowned hospitality, Scotland is a must-visit destination, and this tour is the perfect way to experience it all. So come and join us on this unforgettable journey and discover the unique wonders of Scotland. • Enjoy privileged, personalized attention from your driver/guide on this private tour • Kids friendly (5+ age) • Tour can be customised • Please note that tours stops and timings can be changed

Free cancellation

Full or Half Day Edinburgh Sightseeing Tour in a Luxury CAR (PHV) (opens in a new tab)

10 h

Hop into a classic, Edinburgh council-approved driver and vehicle for a full-day tour around the city. Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's rich history as your driver-guide shares fascinating stories about the notable figures who have lived here—or still do. Visit iconic landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral and Arthur's Seat. The vehicle is fully air-conditioned, ensuring comfort in both winter and summer, and bottled water is provided free of charge. As a private tour, you have the flexibility to choose your destinations, and your driver will tailor the tour to your preferences. With a customizable itinerary, flexible pickup times, and the option to extend your tour, this is a personal and easy way to experience Edinburgh's historic charm. Pickup and drop-off are available from the airport, train stations, hotels, or residential properties.

Free cancellation

Private Scottish Borders, Lindisfarne Priory & Flodden Field Tour (opens in a new tab)

1 10 h

A private tour for you and your party, following in the footsteps of Vikings, Martyrs & the armies of King Henry VIII. A full day in the Scottish/English borders with visits to Holy Island, Lindisfarne priory, Bamburgh Castle and the battlefields of Flodden. *** Visits to Lindisfarne/Holy Island, are subject to tidal timings and occasionally may not be possible.

Free cancellation

Half Day Tour to Lallybroch and Hopetoun House (opens in a new tab)

1 4 h

Take a unique half day Outlander tour and visit the two most popular film locations - Lallybroch and Hopetoun House , used extensively for Outlander filming . Enter the world of Outlander with a visit to Lallybroch , the ancestral home of Jamie Fraser . Visitors can now go inside Lallybroch for the first time ever. Soon fans will be able to stay in Lallybroch . It’s a fantastic way to walk in the footsteps of Jamie all a short drive from your hotel. Shore excursions available from Edinburgh ports. Hopetoun House and its grounds provided a stunning backdrop for filming locations for Outlander , including the Red Room . The back of the house was used as the Duke of Sandringham’s home (with scenes also filmed in the Red Drawing Room) in season 1. The courtyards provided the backdrop for the Parisian streets of season 2 as well as the Helwater stables in season 3 . The front of the house was Ellesmere Manor in season 3 . Last-minute bookings welcome . Outlander day tour from Edinburgh

Free cancellation

Stirling, distillery, St Andrews 1 Day in Spanish from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

36 10 h

Visit the medieval city of Stirling, historical St Andrews and a whisky distillery on this comprehensive day trip from Edinburgh. With an expert guide at your side, depart from Edinburgh by coach or minivan and journey to Stirling, home to the famous medieval citadel. Learn about the art of making whisky at a distillery. Then, head to the coastal town of St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. On the way back to Edinburgh, stop to take photos of the Victorian landmark Forth Bridge. Entrance fees not included.

Treasures of Edinburgh: Ghosts, Myths & Legends Private Tour (opens in a new tab)

18 2 h 30 min

To truly experience a city, you must deep dive into its culture, and there's no better cultural tradition to explore in Edinburgh than through its ghost tales, myths and legends. On this private tour, get a cultural awakening as you learn more about ghosts, myths and legends and why it's such a unique part of the city's character. Learn from its history to the present influence that still lingers in Edinburgh as you visit the Robert Fergusson statue, Canongate Kirkyard and more. Thanks to this cultural experience, you'll be able to see Edinburgh from a different perspective - the way the locals live it every day! Withlocals Treasures of Edinburgh Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local products and preventing over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Free cancellation

Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, The Highlands & Hairy Coo's (Small-Group) (opens in a new tab)

65 9 h

Escape from Edinburgh and spend a relaxing day exploring some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland, including Loch Lomond and seeing a Hairy Coo or two. During this small-group tour we absorb unique Scottish scenery at its best with many magnificent lochs (lakes) set against backdrops of dramatic mountains. We'll also weave stories of Scottish history, pass through battle sites and be introduced to our nation's mythical creatures.

Edinburgh Private Walking Tour with a Local (opens in a new tab)

2 2 h – 6 h

Skip the standard sightseeing tour and discover Edinburgh through the eyes of a local. With Lokafy, every tour is private, unscripted, and personalized to you. Your Lokafyer is a passionate local who shares stories, hidden gems, and authentic tips you won’t find in a guidebook. They aren’t professional guides with memorized scripts, they're locals who love their city and want you to experience it like a friend would. Whether you’re interested in food, art, history, or simply exploring the neighborhoods beyond the tourist spots, your Lokafyer will adapt the walk to your interests. By the end, you’ll feel at home in the city, with insights to keep exploring on your own.

Free cancellation

Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour (opens in a new tab)

75 1 h 30 min

The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is perfect for everyone who wants to know more about Scottish history. The people buried within the Kirkyard made Edinburgh what it was. We'll share some of the most important, most interesting and most surprising stories about these rather fascinating people. And we'll do this in an entertaining, professional and respectful manner. Greyfriars is a fascinating place that has links to some incredible stories from Scotland’s history (not 'just' Edinburgh's history). Their stories are the stories of Edinburgh. You’ll learn about these characters as you stand only inches away from where their bodies lie buried. Hear the stories behind martyred Covenanters, an amusing artist, an infamous ghost, grave robbers, the Irish murderers Burke and Hare, a tortured spy and, of course, the devoted Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Are you ready to ‘meet’ the ‘Dead of Old Edinburgh’?

Free cancellation

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

1 8 h

Explore Glasgow with your very own Private Charter, Scotland’s second city in style by having a Luxury Private Tour with a Scottish Local as your driver. Avoid busy public transport and crowded group tours with your own Luxury Private Chauffeur. Save time and see multiple major Glasgow sites and attractions in a one day at your pace. Door to Door Service included, from any Edinburgh location. Glasgow is world renowned for being an extremely friendly city. The ‘weegies’ are humorous but modest and will always make you feel welcome. With so many places to visit and explore we work with you to create the perfect itinerary, take a look through the attractions and locations below. We recommend choosing around 5, your itinerary can then be put together, reviewed and confirmed to create your perfect Glasgow Tour.

Free cancellation

St Andrews & Fife Seaside Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

5 8 h

Explore the stunning Fife coast on this day tour from Edinburgh, where history and coastal beauty meet. Start in the charming fishing village of Anstruther, renowned for its fish and chips and harbour. Spend a leisurely afternoon in St Andrews, home to famous golf courses, historic ruins, and the captivating St Andrews Cathedral. A visit to the royal village of Falkland adds a touch of Scottish heritage to your journey, capped off with views of the iconic Forth Bridge. An engaging local guide enriches your experience with stories and insights along the way. - Full day tour from Edinburgh lasting approximately 8 hours - Visit Anstruther, St Andrews and Falkland - Guided commentary in English, with audio guides available in other languages - Scenic drive featuring the Fife Coastal route and Forth Bridge views

Greyfriars Kirkyard and Edinburgh Castle Private Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

1 5 h

Step into the haunted heart of Edinburgh and hear ghost stories, royal tales, and literary legends at Greyfriars Kirkyard. 2H: Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour (No Transport) Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh’s most haunted graveyard, and see landmarks like George Heriot’s School and the Grassmarket. Hear ghost stories, history, and legends. 3H: Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour & Transport Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard and the historic Old Town with private round-trip transport. See sites linked to ghosts, royals and Harry Potter. A seamless, story-filled experience. 4H: Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh Castle (No Transport) Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard and Skip the Line to Edinburgh Castle for stories of Mary Queen of Scots, sieges, and royal treasures. See Old Town gems on your way. 5H: Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh Castle & Transport Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard and Skip the Line to Edinburgh Castle with round-trip private transport. Explore royal courtyards, ancient legends, and Old Town streets.

Free cancellation

Cows, Rosslyn Chapel, Tantallon Castle, Dunbar from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

3 6 h

Visit the most iconic sites in the region south of Edinburgh, in this tour full of beautiful seaside landscapes, historic monuments and a quaint historic fishing town. Rosslyn Chapel, featured in the Da Vinci Code, and believed by many to be the secret location of the long-lost Haoly Grail. Tantallon Castle, ancient home of the Red Douglas clan, featuring stunning views of the Berwick coast and sea cliffs. Dunbar, was the birthplace of John Muir, the father of the modern conservation movement. Dunbar is also a pretty historic fishing village with 2 harbours, dating back to the 16th century and the ruins of Dunbar Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots sought refuge, as well as Edward II after he was defeated by Robert the Bruce in the Battle of Bannockburn.

Free cancellation