Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a mishmash of the old and the new. The architecture of Edinburgh allows you to travel through the various periods of its history. It has been a center for education and learning long before it became a part of the United Kingdom. Its historical and cultural landmarks have stood the test of time and continue to awe tourists today.
Today, Edinburgh is the second largest financial center in the United Kingdom, second only to London. It is also its 7th most populous city. It has theatres, museums, galleries, and libraries galore. It also hosts events like the Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Geological wonders also surround the city of Edinburgh. Hills, rock formations, lochs and grasslands all span out around this ancient city. You can experience the modern city life, taste the old town life and then move on to the exploration of the wild Highlands of Scotland. Should you find yourself in the area, here is a list of activities you might enjoy. Read on for the best Viator tours in Edinburgh, Scotland.
1. Go on an evening tour of Old Town Edinburgh
This tour is not for the faint of heart. Explore the heavily haunted Blair Street, Underground Vaults, and explore the routes used by the infamous Edinburgh Mob. This two-hour tour takes place in the evening and comes with a drum of Scotch Whiskey at the end. The night tour of Edinburgh that leads you to a journey into the city’s austere, frightful, and ghost-like past. During the time of the infamous Edinburgh mob, revealed that there was a lot of blood and massacre throughout, especially at the Mercat Cross.
2. Get an inside look into Harry Potter's magical world
Potterheads unite! This two-hour tour takes you through the winding streets and alleys of Edinburgh. Experience the magic that inspired J.K. Rowling to create her world and learn about the history of this city. This family-friendly tour takes you to some of the filming locations of the Potter films including Hogwarts! Indeed, this is a tour for the mind and the soul. Follow J.K. Rowling’s steps towards creativity and the making of Harry Potter. Incredible, one might say! This well-prepared tour is a treat for those who love her creations. Magical, truly magical!
3. Learn some of Edinburgh's food secrets
Scottish food is usually on every foodie’s list. This tour will take you through the streets of Edinburgh and let you share the passion the locals have for their food. Scotland is famous for its unique cuisine, but Edinburgh’s food centers are best explored with a guided tour. On this three-hour, small-group walking journey, explore the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns, and experience classic Scottish cuisine such as authentic Haggis, award-winning Lowland Single Malt Whisky, and also enjoy afternoon tea. Learn why Edinburgh locals are so enthusiastic about their food. Explore the local streets on a walking food tour.
Book Tours : Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
4. Learn more about Edinburgh's special malt whiskey
For those you really want to experience the Scottish Whiskey, this 8-hour tour may hold the key. Visit two distilleries, learn about the centuries-old traditions about brewing the drinks and taste the carefully aged samples. This tour also allows you to spend some quiet time around Loch Lomond. The tour will walk you through the basics of whiskey brewing and there’s a whiskey tasting opportunity at the end. You learn about the process; it is pretty informative and also something different. They also let you keep the glass. The unopened whiskey collection is marvelous; you will only wish to taste the lot of them.
5. See the scenic castles in Edinburgh
This tour takes you to Stirling Castle, the Kelpies Monument, and Loch Lomond. Along the way, you will pass landmarks like Linlithgow Palace and Trossachs National Park. The drive is extremely scenic and lasts nearly nine hours. For an additional charge, you can even explore the interiors of the Stirling Castle.
6. Visit Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian's Wall
This tour is a treat for history lovers. It allows you to explore a frontier of the ancient Roman civilization at Hadrian’s wall. It takes you through several historical landmarks of Edinburgh including the famous Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey, and burial site of King Robert Bruce’s heart.
7. Explore St. Andrews and Fife
This is a unique dip into Scotland’s local history. This eight-hour trip takes you from Edinburgh and across the Forth Road Bridge to the kingdom of Fife. Explore the town of St. Andrews which holds Scotland’s oldest university and an old golf course. Then head off to explore Falkland and the Lomond Hills.
8. Experience the city through a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Hop-on-hop-off tours are hands down the best way to personalize your itineraries while having a cartload of fun. A one-day pass allows you to board the red double-deckers and get off at any of the 14 landmarks they stop at. The tickets are valid for 24 hours and also include the price of the on-board commentary.
Book Tours : City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
9. Admire Edinburgh's natural landscape through a highlands and villages tour
This tour is for those who are looking for the classic Scottish experience. A short drive by minivan, this tour takes a small group from Edinburgh to Loch Ness where you can enjoy the highlands, loch, and quaint little villages. You can even take an optional boat ride out on Loch Ness to see Nessie.
10. Join an Edinburgh Castle walking tour
Skip the line and gain direct entry to the Edinburgh Castle grounds. This 1.5-hour guided tour around the fortress will allow you to learn about its history and architecture. It even allows you to see the National Monument and the National War Museum. At the end of the hour, you can continue to explore the castle and its grounds.
Book Tours : Edinburgh Skip-the-Ticket-Line Castle Walking Tour
Enjoy the best of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is known around the world for its history and culture in addition to its breathtaking natural beauty. Besides this, it has also been home to a few notable names from the past and present, like Sir Walter Scott, Arthur Conan Doyle, Alexander Graham Bell, James Maxwell, J. K. Rowling, and so many more, all of whom have left their mark. It is a favorite among anyone looking for a spark of inspiration from musicians to artists. There is a lot to explore here. If you are looking for a taste of old-school adventure, Edinburgh is the place to visit.
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