Free walking tour in Edinburgh

Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh's Old Town, where every stone tells a story, and every guide is driven by passion, not pay. At GuruWalk, we offer free walking tours that delve into the city's rich tapestry of history and culture, promising an unforgettable experience that fits any budget. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the hidden gems off the beaten path, our tips-only tours ensure that every step you take is worth your time.

Discover Edinburgh with Our Best Free Walking Tours

We at GuruWalk have carved out a niche in the competitive world of walking tours by offering a service that is both accessible and exceptional. Our tours operate on a tips-only basis, ensuring that every guide is motivated to provide the best possible experience. This model allows us to offer high-quality tours that fit any budget, making Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture accessible to everyone.

We offer a variety of tours, each designed to showcase different aspects of Edinburgh:

• Old Town Odyssey: This tour, led by our guides Jonás, Amelia, and Victoria, takes you through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, revealing iconic landmarks and hidden treasures.

• Historic Edinburgh Essentials: Dive into the city's rich past with "We Are Scotland," exploring significant historical sites and architectural marvels.

• The Original Edinburgh Experience: Pioneered by SANDEMANs, this comprehensive tour covers major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and St Giles' Cathedral.

With such a variety of tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from in Edinburgh. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our glowing customer reviews. Visitors often highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of our GuruWalk guides, making their experience truly unforgettable.

For those inspired to explore beyond Edinburgh, our collection of guided tours Berlin offers an equally captivating experience, uncovering the layers of history, art, and vibrant culture in Germany’s capital. Just as in Edinburgh, our Berlin tours allow you to dive deeper into the city's unique stories with the expertise of passionate local guides.

Famous sights you’ll see on a walking tour of Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Castle
  Perched on Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland.

• The Royal Mile
  A historic street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and iconic landmarks.

• Holyrood Palace
  The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, set against the backdrop of Arthur’s Seat and beautiful gardens.

• St Giles' Cathedral
  Known for its stunning crown steeple, this medieval church is a focal point of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

• Arthur’s Seat
  An extinct volcano offering one of the best views in Edinburgh, it's a must-see for those wanting to explore the city’s natural beauty.

• The Scottish Parliament Building
  A striking modern building located at the foot of Holyrood Park, representing Scotland's governance.

• The National Museum of Scotland
  A world-class museum showcasing Scotland’s history, culture, and innovations, located in the heart of the Old Town.

• The Royal Scottish Academy
  Home to an extensive collection of Scottish art, the Royal Scottish Academy is a must-see for art lovers.

• Greyfriars Bobby
  A statue dedicated to Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal terrier who famously guarded his master’s grave for 14 years.

• The Grassmarket
  A historic market square that offers picturesque views, cobblestone streets, and a variety of pubs and shops.

• The Elephant House Café
  Known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, this café is where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the first book.

• Victoria Street
  Edinburgh’s most photogenic street, famous for its colorful buildings and charming shops, often compared to Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

• The Mound
  A man-made hill that separates Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, offering amazing views of the Princes Street Gardens.

• Dean Village
  A peaceful, picturesque neighborhood on the edge of the city, known for its medieval houses and quaint atmosphere.

FAQs before booking our free walking tour in Edinburgh

1. What is the 3 hour guided walking tour in Edinburgh?

The 3-hour guided walking tour in Edinburgh takes you through the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and other historical sites. It’s perfect for those wanting to dive deep into the city’s rich history and culture.

2. How much do you tip for a free walking tour in Edinburgh?

Tipping for a free walking tour in Edinburgh is voluntary, but it's recommended to give 5-10% of the tour value. The amount depends on your satisfaction with the experience and the guide.

3. Can you walk around Edinburgh in a day?

Yes, you can explore Edinburgh in a day. It’s a compact city, and you can visit major attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, and Holyroodhouse Palace on foot.

4. How long is the Edinburgh Walking Tour?

The Edinburgh Walking Tour typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the stops included. There are various walking tours that explore different parts of the city.

5. Is the Royal Mile worth it?

Absolutely! The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s historic heart, filled with medieval architecture, unique shops, restaurants, and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St Giles' Cathedral.

6. Is the walk to Edinburgh Castle difficult?

No, the walk to Edinburgh Castle is not difficult, though it involves a moderate climb. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially when walking through the city's hilly terrain.

7. How long does it take to walk the Royal Mile in Edinburgh?

Walking the Royal Mile from end to end typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to explore shops or landmarks.

8. What not to miss on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh?

Don’t miss Edinburgh Castle, St Giles' Cathedral, Holyroodhouse Palace, and numerous museums, unique shops, and cafés along the Royal Mile.

9. Does the Royal Mile lead to Edinburgh Castle?

Yes, the Royal Mile leads directly to Edinburgh Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, located atop a hill.

10. Is it rude not to tip in Scotland?

In Scotland, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. For free walking tours, it’s customary to leave a tip if you’re satisfied with the experience.

11. Is it hard to walk around Edinburgh?

No, Edinburgh is quite walkable. While there are some hills and cobbled streets, most of the city is easy to explore on foot.