Cultural & Theme Tours in Edinburgh

Rosslyn Chapel and Scottish Borders Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

716 6 h 45 min

Nowhere in Scotland is more riddled with mystery than Rosslyn Chapel. There’s the connection to the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail. Some even believe the chapel was built on a UFO landing site. And let's not forget this striking chapel was used in the Da Vinci Code movie. Explore the enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel, admire the gorgeous Tweed Valley, and visit Melrose Abbey, the alleged resting place of the heart of Scottish king Robert the Bruce.

Private - Culloden, Clava Cairns Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

14 10 h – 11 h

Spend the day traveling through some stunning Scottish Scenery.  Hear how the ordinary people lived in the Highlands in the times of the Jacobite Rising.  Walk the Battlefield and tour the visitor centre at Culloden.  Step back in time and explore Clava Cairns (4000 year old burial Cairns and standing Stones.  There will be comfort stops along the way. We are happy to customize the tour with advanced notice before the tour date.

Free cancellation

Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Full-Day Private Tour in a Premium Minivan (opens in a new tab)

46 8 h

First we stop to admire the views over the Forth Bridges from South Queensferry before continuing to Linlithgow Palace with its rich and varied history. Then we take the 'Royal Route' to Stirling Castle and explore the ancient royal seat of Scotland. Learn the varied history of the Stuart Royals and the great battles of the middle-ages that were fought nearby. Travel on to the National Park and explore the idyllic Loch Lomond with its calm waters that make way to dramatic highland scenery. Visit the conservation village of Luss and hear the local stories from hundreds of years of tradition. The private tour is conduced in our luxury Mercedes minivans that comfortably accommodate up to 6 passengers. Your passionate Driver-guide will bring the day to live with stories and living history and will personally escort you to all monuments and locations. Each itinerary is entirely customisable so if there is something specific you would like to see along the route please let us know!

Glenfinnan Viaduct Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

18 10 h

• Travel in a Luxurious, Mercedes-Benz Premium Minivan. • A Private Day Tour tailored to your preferences. • An Expert Local Guide. • A Door-to-Door Service. Explore Scotland's breathtaking landscapes and iconic Harry Potter filming locations on a magical adventure. Begin in the charming village of Luss by Loch Lomond, where stunning views and quaint shops await. Journey through the Highlands, stopping at Loch Tulla Viewpoint and Hagrid's Hut in Glencoe. Visit historic Fort William, nestled at Ben Nevis's base, and honor WWII heroes at the Commando Monument. A highlight is the 'Hogwarts Express' crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a dream for fans. Capture the beauty of Glencoe, Rannoch Moor, and meet Highland Cows, while exploring Doune Castle and the National Wallace Monument, making this a must for Potterheads.

Free cancellation

Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

285 3 h 30 min

This private guided walk with our unique guides (Stuart Usher or his son Richard, Professional Historians such as Dr Alison Duncan or David Forsyth, other prominent guides such as Prof. John Frank), will both entertain and enthral your group. Your party (up to 12 people) will be the only visitors on the walk. Stuart Usher's family have historic connections with Edinburgh (his great-great Uncle, Andrew Usher, donated the magnificent Usher Hall to the city, where the tour normally starts) and his deep knowledge of the city's cultural, historical and architectural aspects means he has a unique perspective. You can book a morning tour (9.30am to 1.00pm), an afternoon tour (2.00pm to 5.30pm) or our full-day tour (9.30am to 4.30pm) You can have flexibility on itinerary should you choose, e.g. if you have special interests in certain aspects of Edinburgh, and we can even arrange a starting point to suit you (e.g. your hotel) as long as it is in the city-centre.

Free cancellation

Stirling Castle, Whisky & Kelpies Tour starting Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

149 9 h 30 min

Our unique 5-star tours, as awarded by the Scottish Tourism Board, offer the chance to explore and experience Scotland in the perfect setting. You will be accompanied by our knowledgeable guides who have a wealth of stories, myths, and legends to entertain you with, and of course, we welcome questions! We operate our tours in an 16-person capacity to allow you the freedom to spend more time 'sight-doing' as opposed to sight-seeing. What a wonderful tour you’re choosing. The Stirling Castle, Kelpies, Loch Lomond, and Whisky Distillery tour is designed to give you a fantastic overview of Scotland, all packed into one beautiful day.

Free cancellation

Balmoral Castle, Dunkeld, Ballater Private Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

2 12 h

Explore royal Highland history on this day tour to Balmoral Castle. Travel north through scenic countryside to the charming town of Pitlochry, where a short stop offers a taste of Highland life before heading into the mountains. Continue over the dramatic Cairnwell Pass, one of Scotland’s highest roads, with sweeping views of rugged peaks and open glens. Arrive at iconic Balmoral Castle, the beloved Scottish retreat of the Royal Family. Explore the estate grounds, gardens, and exhibitions while learning how Balmoral became central to Scotland’s royal story. After your visit, continue to the picturesque village of Ballater, set on the River Dee and closely connected to the Balmoral Estate. On the return journey to Edinburgh, enjoy a memorable Highland experience as you hand-feed friendly Highland cows, getting up close with Scotland’s most iconic animals. Blending royal heritage, dramatic landscapes, and authentic local encounters, this tour offers an unforgettable Highland escape.

Free cancellation

Edinburgh Half Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan (opens in a new tab)

66 4 h

Our comprehensive private guided Edinburgh tour is a fantastic way to explore the big sights and hidden gems of the Scottish Capital City on a half-day minivan tour. Taking a bespoke tour allows you to tailor your time Edinburgh to your exacting interests and requirements. Your friendly and knowledgeable driver guide will show you around Edinburgh's many sights onboard your private Mercedes Minivan. Hear the stories that make Edinburgh famous and learn about the cities often gruesome past. We'll venture through the historic old town, Royal Mile, Georgian new town and explore local areas full of history outside the city centre. We will tell you the stories and history that make each attraction come to life! Our vehicles are the perfect size to squeeze down the city's narrow streets and see the 'off the tourist trail' sights whilst still being spacious.

The Best Harry Potter Tour & Whisky Experience (opens in a new tab)

6 3 h 30 min

Set off on a magical tour of Edinburgh with our fun Potter-head guide, and see the places that inspired JK Rowling to create her wizarding universe. Then, learn about and taste incredible whisky with a local expert! 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 which provided lots of inspiration for JK Rowling’s creations. We continue through the atmospheric Old Town, stopping at Greyfriars Kirkyard which inspired Tom Riddle's Grave and passing by the Elephant Café where JK Rowling sat for many hours dreaming up the world of Harry Potter! Get amazing views of Edinburgh Castle on our way to Victoria Street - said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley - and we finish near Edinburgh City Chambers where you’ll learn about JK Rowling’s impact on the city. After the tour, enjoy free time before heading to a cellar for a whisky tasting with stories and drams from various regions!

Edinburgh: Lindores Distillery & Falkland Palace Private Day Tour (opens in a new tab)

1 8 h

Beginning in Edinburgh, the first sight you’ll see is the breathtaking shores of Loch Leven. From here, your private driver-guide will take you to the charming village of Falkland, where you'll visit Falkland Palace and Lindores Distillery - where whisky was first documented. Discover the history and origins of Scotland’s famous spirit, how it is made, and have a dram or two before heading back to the city. 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.

Free cancellation

Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour (opens in a new tab)

607 1 h 45 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: - Smell the leather and smoke - Listen to the tour playlist Experience the eerie and frightening atmosphere of the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults. Beware, though, for maybe those whispers you hear aren't just in your head... It might be something to do with the change in temperature. Or the perpetual darkness. Or the ever smaller rooms, stretching beyond the weak beam of a torch or flicker of candlelight. Whatever the reason, there’s something unsettling about the Blair Street Underground Vaults. From there, it’s on to the spooky Canongate graveyard, where the spirits of the dead await. Join a journey into Edinburgh's past, engaging all the senses to create a truly memorable experience that lasts long after your visit.

Edinburgh 2 Hour Nighttime Ghost Tour Italian Tour Guide (opens in a new tab)

81 2 h

On this Italian tour, follow your guide through the narrow streets of Edinburgh to hear about the city's chilling history of ghosts, murderers and witch hunts. • Discover stories of witch hunts, murderers and ghosts • Wander the narrow city streets at nightfall with an Italian guide • Visit a cemetery famous for its high levels of paranormal activity • Meet the infamous ghost of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Kingdom of Northumbria (opens in a new tab)

551 9 h 30 min

Explore the scenic coastal route between Edinburgh and the ancient kingdom of Northumbria. Visit Alnwick Castle, see Holy Island, taste some Mead brewed by monks and explore the magnificent poison gardens at Alnwick.

Whisky Tasting on the Royal Mile (opens in a new tab)

6 1 h 30 min

Your whisky range is specifically curated to maximise the range of flavours - no big brands, no blends or cheapskate options, this only serve what we consider to be the best reflection of the flavours available in whisky. With industry insider knowledge, and passion for their tipple, your guides are some of the best in the city.

Exclusive Blair Street Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

1,580 1 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: - Smell the leather and smoke - Touch original artefacts - Listen to the tour playlist Get exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults. Built in the 18th Century beneath South Bridge, we’re the only walking tour company with access. Beneath the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh’s Old Town, you’ll discover a dark, damp world that has remained unchanged since the 18th Century. Step into the depths of the Blair Street Underground Vaults on a multi-sensory journey of perfectly preserved history and learn how these vaulted chambers became home to the city’s most destitute inhabitants. This is more than a walking tour, it’s an unmissable immersive experience.

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

238 12 h 15 min

Explore some of Scotland's most iconic sites and stunning scenery with this unique guided day tour from Edinburgh and witness the unique site of Glen Coe, the beauty of Ben Nevis and the Loch Ness, where you might even be able to spot the famous monster that is said to inhabit it's waters.

Free cancellation

Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile Guided Tour + Entry Ticket (opens in a new tab)

75 1 h 30 min

Start by meeting your guide at the entrance to Advocates Close. From there, you’ll follow in the footsteps of royalty (and even pirates) as you enter Edinburgh Castle. As you discover the castle grounds, hear stories about how this fortress was once the residence for Mary, Queen of Scots, and a prison during the Napoleonic Wars. Take a snap of the six-tonnes Mons Meg (a medieval cannon), and admire the Royal Palace. Afterwards, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace, and step inside St Margaret's Chapel, Scottish National War Memorial and more.

Loch Ness Cruise, Walk, Whisky, and Glencoe Tour - Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)

208 12 h

16 clients maximum - Small Group Tour Consistently awarded 5 Star Tour Have an amazing time and experience the best of Scotland in a spectacular 1 day trip. Visit the amazing Loch Ness and hunt for Nessie Try delicious Scotch Whisky, eat at a traditional Scottish Fish and Chip Shop. Visit Glencoe and the Highlands of Scotland and discover why these locations feature in Harry Porter movies, James Bonds Skyfall, Braveheart and Outlander.

Harry Potter and English Castles - Spanish Tour Guide (opens in a new tab)

104 10 h

Embark on a full-day trip from Edinburgh into Northumberland, where history, cinema and enchanting landscapes blend seamlessly. The tour begins in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a coastal town with medieval walls and views over the North Sea, marking your crossing into England. The journey continues to Alnwick Castle, famous for its role in the Harry Potter films and still home to the aristocracy of Northumberland. You’ll have time to explore its grand rooms and magnificent gardens, enjoying the magical atmosphere that surrounds this iconic site. During the winter season, Alnwick Castle closes to visitors, and the tour visits the mystical island of Lindisfarne (Holy Island) instead, known for its medieval abbey, castle and tidal causeway. The experience also includes Bamburgh Castle, a fortress overlooking a white-sand beach and filled with centuries of stories. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy Lowlands scenery, remarkable architecture and the unique charm of these legendary English landmarks.

Edinburgh: Dean Village Circus Lane Walking Tour with a Local (opens in a new tab)

147 2 h

Escape the overcrowded Royal Mile and enjoy an intimate, personal tour of Edinburgh's hidden gems with a friendly local guide! On this relaxed walking tour you'll encounter the best of Edinburgh - an historic neighbourhood (Dean Village) with architecture dating back to the 1600's, historic monuments, quirky local cafes, quaint hidden alleyways and streets and you'll walk along the city's only river. There might even be a waterfall and if you are really lucky, you might even see local otters, right in the middle of the city! Book this tour if you want to get away from the tourist crowds and experience something a bit more "local". Perfect for anyone who's seen the Old Town.