How to Plan Your Complete Potter Tour in Edinburgh

Are you a fan of the world-famous wizarding series of Harry Potter? Do you want to explore the locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s writing? Then, join us on the Complete Potter Tour in Edinburgh. In this tour, you will discover the secrets of the city that have inspired the writer and explore the magical world of Harry Potter.

Overview

The tour will take you on a magical journey through the historic streets of Edinburgh. You will learn about Edinburgh and its mysterious past from an experienced and knowledgeable local guide, who is also an avid Harry Potter fan. This tour is specially created for fans of Harry Potter, who want to see the inspirations for the series in real life.You will skip queues, and miss out on the crowds with your special tour privileges. This is a private tour for up to five people, so you can have a more personal Potterhead experience.

What’s Included

• The Museum of Scotland
• The HQ of the Royal Bank of Scotland
• Old Parliament Hall
• £50 Greyfriars Kirkyard Restoration Fee (Mandatory)
• Breakfast. We can pause for sandwiches to be eaten during the tour, but BREAKFAST IS KI

Tour Itinerary

The Complete Potter Tour in Edinburgh takes you on a journey to the inspiring locations of Edinburgh’s past and the magical world of Harry Potter.

Stop 1: The Elephant House Café

Start your tour at The Elephant House Café, the birthplace of Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling wrote the first book in the series here. You will have an opportunity to sit in the same seat she sat and be inspired by the city and the view.

Stop 2: George Heriot’s School

Next, you will take a walk to George Heriot’s School, which inspired the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The school is a fantastic example of Scottish architecture, and it is rumored that Rowling used to walk by it every day while writing her books.

Stop 3: Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is the resting place of many famous Scottish personalities, including Thomas Riddell, who provided the inspiration for Voldemort’s real name, Tom Riddle. You will also see a monument to Greyfriars Bobby, a dog who stayed by the grave of his master for 14 years.

Stop 4: The Potter Trail Tour

You will join The Potter Trail Tour, where you will see the city’s hidden closes and the infamous wizarding world of Harry Potter. You will see Diagon Alley, Knockturn Alley and where Lord Voldemort is buried.

Stop 5: The Museum of Scotland

The Museum of Scotland is home to an impressive collection of Scottish national treasures. Here, you can see the original Hogwarts Express train, costumes, and props used in the Harry Potter movies.

Stop 6: The Royal Bank of Scotland

The headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland, situated on St. Andrew Square, provided the inspiration for the goblin bank in Harry Potter’s world. You will see its iconic domed roof decorated with the images of the zodiac signs.

Why Book This Tour?

Booking the Complete Potter Tour in Edinburgh guarantees a magical time exploring the real-life inspirations for the Harry Potter series. With experienced and knowledgeable guides to lead the way, you are ensured that you don’t miss anything important.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Complete Potter Tour in Edinburgh is a magical and exciting journey. You will explore the city and its inspirations while immersing yourself in the world of Harry Potter. Don’t miss out on this fantastic experience! Book the tour here: book the tour here.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland is a city that is rich in history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are planning a trip to this popular destination or are just curious about the area, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh, along with detailed answers to each one.

1. What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh depends on your personal preferences. The city enjoys a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit throughout the year. During the summer months, from June to August, the city is bustling with tourists and there are many festivals and events to enjoy, but accommodation prices can be quite high. Autumn and spring are quieter, with better opportunities to enjoy the local attractions and scenery without crowds. Winter in Edinburgh can be cold and dark, but it is also the season of Christmas markets and festive cheer.

2. How do I get to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. Edinburgh Airport is only 20 minutes from the city center by car or bus, and it offers direct flights to many destinations around the world. The city also has two main rail stations, Waverley and Haymarket, which are both located in the city center and provide quick access to destinations throughout Scotland and the UK. If you prefer to travel by car, Edinburgh is well-connected to the UK motorway network and there are several car rental companies located in the city.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is full of fascinating and historic attractions, but a few of the must-see sights include:- Edinburgh Castle – This iconic fortress dominates the city skyline and is full of history and treasures, including the Scottish crown jewels.- The Royal Mile – The historic road that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.- The Palace of Holyroodhouse – The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, with beautiful gardens and a fascinating history.- Arthur’s Seat – A dramatic hill that offers stunning views over Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.- National Museum of Scotland – A world-class museum that showcases the history and culture of Scotland, with interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts.

4. What are some of the best places to eat in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a vibrant food scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international favorites. Some of the top restaurants in the city include:- The Kitchin – A Michelin-starred restaurant that focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.- The Scran and Scallie – A casual gastropub that serves hearty Scottish fare and craft beers.- Ondine – A seafood restaurant that features fresh catches from Scottish waters.- Timberyard – A family-run restaurant that focuses on seasonality and sustainability, with a changing menu that reflects the best of Scottish cuisine.

5. What are some of the best day trips from Edinburgh?

If you have time to explore the area around Edinburgh, there are many wonderful day trips to enjoy. Some of the most popular include:- Stirling Castle – A magnificent castle that was once home to Scottish monarchs, located just 45 minutes from Edinburgh.- Loch Lomond – A stunning freshwater loch that is perfect for hiking, fishing, and water sports, located about an hour from Edinburgh.- Glasgow – A vibrant city that is full of culture, art, and history, and is located just over an hour from Edinburgh by train or car.- The Borders – A picturesque region of rolling hills, charming villages, and historic abbeys, located just south of Edinburgh.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a fascinating and beautiful city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history and culture, stunning natural scenery, or delicious food and drink, there is plenty to discover in this great Scottish city. With this guide to the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh, you can start planning your trip today and make the most of your time in this wonderful destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Edinburgh

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, then you’re in for a treat. Scotland’s capital offers a rich history, wonderful culture and countless attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, there are plenty of things to see and do in the city. Here’s how to spend your time as a tourist in Edinburgh:

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous landmarks of the city, and for good reason. Its history can be traced back to the 12th century, and it has been home to a king, queen, and army garrison over the years. The castle is located on an extinct volcano, which provides fantastic views of the surrounding areas. Take a guided tour or wander around by yourself, and explore the castle’s many exhibits and museums.

2. Explore the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a series of streets running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a wonderful place to explore. Wander through its narrow streets, marvel at the architecture, and maybe even take a ghost tour.

3. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano situated in Holyrood Park. The climb to the summit is quite easy, and it offers incredible views of the city. In fact, it’s one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Edinburgh.

4. Discover Edinburgh’s Museums

Edinburgh is host to many world-class museums, which offer insight into the city’s history and culture. Among them are the National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. All of these are worth a visit and provide different perspectives on Scotland and the wider world.

5. Take a Tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. It’s where the Queen stays when she’s in Edinburgh, but it’s open to the public for most of the year. Take a guided tour and learn about the palace’s history, see the State Apartments and visit the Abbey ruins.

6. Visit the Scottish Parliament

Located at the bottom of the Royal Mile next to Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament is a modern building that houses the devolved government of Scotland. It’s also open to the public and free to enter. Take a guided tour and learn about how Scotland is governed today.

7. Go Shopping in Edinburgh

There are many fantastic places to shop in Edinburgh. The Royal Mile is packed with souvenir shops and boutiques, while Princes Street provides more mainstream high street options. Alternatively, for something a bit quirkier, head to the Grassmarket, which boasts a wide range of independent retailers and vintage shops.

8. Visit the Edinburgh Dungeon

The Edinburgh Dungeon is a unique and interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through Scotland’s dark history. Learn about infamous characters from Scotland’s past, experience thrilling rides and watch live performances.

9. Take a Day Trip

Edinburgh makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of Scotland. Take a day trip to Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, or even up to the Highlands. There are many options for day tours that will take you to some of the most picturesque and historic sites.

10. Enjoy the Festivals

Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, which happen throughout the year. The most famous is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which runs in August and features thousands of shows across the city. Other notable festivals include the Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh is truly a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. There’s a reason the city is consistently voted one of the best places to visit in the UK. So why not book your trip today and discover what Edinburgh has to offer?