Get to know Edinburgh's Old Town with this free tour – perfect for lovers of history, literature, Harry Potter, or the supernatural!
Edinburgh Free Tour
At the indicated time, we'll meet on High Street (the Royal Mile) to begin a free tour of this charming city full of history and legends! We'll get to know Edinburgh's Old Town by exploring the city's most iconic streets, including the Royal Mile and Victoria Street.
The tour will start with St. Giles' Cathedral, one of Scotland's most important medieval parish churches. This 900-year-old cathedral is also known as the "Mother Church of World Presbyterianism" due to its role in the Scottish Reformation and the Covenanters' Rebellion.
Then, we'll head to The Writers' Museum, which celebrates the lives of 3 giants of Scottish literature: Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The museum houses portraits, works, and personal objects of the writers.
Next, we'll make our way to Victoria Street, one of the most photographed locations in the city due to its colorful shopfronts and eclectic architecture. This popular street was also the inspiration for Diagon Alley of the Harry Potter series!
At the end of Victoria Street, we'll find the Grassmarket, a bustling marketplace that's been around since the 14th century. Can you believe this lively square was also the site of public executions and one of Edinburgh's most notorious riots?
Finally, we'll end up at Greyfriars Kirkyard, the world's most haunted graveyard! Here you'll hear about all sorts of paranormal activity, including the story of MacKenzie Poltergeist. But not all of Greyfriars' legends are so spooky! You'll also learn the heartwarming story of the most beloved dog in Scotland, Bobby!
Also near the cemetery is Elephant House Cafe, where J.K. Rowling wrote Harry Potter in a window seat overlooking an uncannily Hogwarts-esque school!
The tour will then come to an end after 2 hours of exploring this magical and unique city.
Please Note
Groups of more than 10 people are not permitted on the tour.
Price
Free tours do not have a fixed price, rather each person offers the guide the amount they consider appropriate, depending on their level of satisfaction.
More Information
Duration
2 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
English–speaking guide
Not included
Entrance fees
When to book?
You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation. An accompanying person is required.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code. Specifically, this activity applies the following practices: Show more
No printing of documentation required.
Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
Has a gender equality policy.
Promotes local employment.
Pets
Permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us .
Free cancellation
If you are not able to attend the tour, please cancel your reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
369 High Street (Royal Mile), opposite St. Giles' Cathedral
