How to Plan Your History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour

If you’re a history lover, a visit to Edinburgh’s Old Town is sure to be on your bucket list. With its narrow alleys, towering architecture, and rich cultural history, Edinburgh’s Old Town is a must-see for any tourist. One of the best ways to experience this historic city is through a walking tour. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to plan your History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour.

Overview of the Tour

The History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour is a small-group walking tour that takes you through Edinburgh’s Old Town. Unlike most tours of the Old Town, with this tour, the maximum group size is just 15 people. This means that you won’t be elbow to elbow with other visitors as you explore the area from the Royal Mile to Greyfriars Kirkyard and Princes Street Gardens. On this tour, you’ll discover the top attractions of Edinburgh’s Old Town, as well as some hidden gems. You’ll hear stories of the people and events that shaped Scottish history from an expert local guide. The tour lasts for two hours and is suitable for all ages.

What’s Included?

This tour includes an expert local guide who will lead you through the historic streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The guide will provide you with informative commentary throughout the tour.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is The Tour Box. It is an original Edinburgh Police Box painted brown and white which looks like a small coffee kiosk. Your guide will meet you in front of The Tour Box, located at Police Box West End Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB. The tour starts at 04:30 PM and ends at John.

Booking the Tour

To book the History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour, visit the viator website at book the tour here. The tour is priced at £14 per person.

What to Bring

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The tour runs rain or shine, so bring a rain jacket or umbrella if necessary. You may also want to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.

Tips for a Great Tour

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour:

1. Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early so that you have time to meet your guide and get any necessary information.
2. Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions and follow any safety guidelines.
3. Ask questions and engage with your guide to get the most out of your tour.
4. Take plenty of photos, but be respectful of the historic sites and architecture.
5. Bring cash, as some shops and cafes in Edinburgh’s Old Town do not accept credit cards.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a history lover, the History Lovers Edinburgh Old Town Tour is a must-do when visiting Edinburgh’s Old Town. This small-group walking tour offers an intimate experience that allows you to discover the top attractions of Old Town and learn about the people and events that shaped Scottish history. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, or you’re already there, you might have some questions about what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Edinburgh to help you out.

1. What are some must-visit places in Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital city is a hub of culture, history, and entertainment, so if you’re visiting, there are plenty of places to see. Some must-visit places include: – Edinburgh Castle: This iconic fortress dominates the city’s skyline and is steeped in history. Learn about the castle’s role in Scotland’s past and enjoy stunning views. – The Royal Mile: This cobbled street runs from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and is packed with shops, pubs, and historic sites. – Arthur’s Seat: This hill in Holyrood Park offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. – The National Museum of Scotland: This museum covers Scotland’s history, culture, and natural wonders, with interactive exhibits and displays.

2. What are some family-friendly activities in Edinburgh?

If you’re travelling with kids, there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Some family-friendly options include: – Edinburgh Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals, including giant pandas, penguins, and tigers. – Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: This interactive museum is a fun way to explore optical illusions and other mind-bending exhibits. – Dynamic Earth: Learn about the history of the planet and the natural forces that shape it, with hands-on activities and interactive displays. – Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Explore over 70 acres of gardens, with plants from around the world, glasshouses, and a giant redwood.

3. Where are the best places to eat in Edinburgh?

Scotland is known for its hearty, filling cuisine, so you won’t go hungry in Edinburgh. Here are some top places to eat: – The Witchery by the Castle: This award-winning restaurant offers Scottish cuisine in a historic setting. – The Kitchin: Chef Tom Kitchin serves up modern Scottish dishes using local ingredients. – Ondine: This seafood restaurant is a favourite among locals, with a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish on offer. – The Dogs: This casual eatery offers Scottish classics like haggis and neeps and tatties, as well as a range of other dishes.

4. How do I get around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a compact city, so it’s easy to get around on foot. However, if you’d like to explore further afield, there are plenty of transport options: – Bus: Lothian Buses operates a network of routes across the city, with single fares and day tickets available. – Tram: The Edinburgh Tram runs from the airport to the city centre, with stops at popular attractions along the way. – Taxi: You can hail a black cab on the street, or use an app like Uber or Lyft to book a ride. – Bike: Edinburgh has plenty of bike rental shops, and there are several cycle paths and bike lanes around the city.

5. What are some free activities to do in Edinburgh?

If you’re travelling on a budget, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Edinburgh. Some ideas include: – Walking tours: Many companies offer free walking tours of the city, with knowledgeable guides pointing out the sights and sharing stories. – National Museum of Scotland: As mentioned earlier, entry to the museum is free, and it’s a great way to learn about Scotland’s history and culture. – St Giles’ Cathedral: This historic church is free to enter, with stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework. – Edinburgh’s parks: There are several parks around the city, including Princes Street Gardens and Holyrood Park, which offer beautiful scenery and a chance to relax.

6. When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, but the peak tourist season in Edinburgh is between June and August, when the weather is generally mild and there are plenty of festivals and events. However, the city can also be crowded and expensive during this time. For a quieter trip, consider visiting in the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October. The weather may be cooler, but there are still plenty of things to do, and you’ll avoid the crowds.

7. What are some unique souvenirs to buy in Edinburgh?

If you’re looking for a special souvenir to remember your trip to Edinburgh, here are some ideas: – Whisky: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and there are several distilleries in the area. Pick up a bottle to take home, or visit a distillery for a tour and tasting. – Tartan: The traditional plaid fabric is still woven in Scotland, and you can buy everything from scarves to kilts in a variety of tartans. – Shortbread: This crumbly, buttery biscuit is a Scottish classic and a great gift for friends and family. – Edinburgh Gin: Gin is having a moment in Scotland, and several distilleries in Edinburgh produce their own unique varieties.

Book Your Tour Now

Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, this city has something to offer. From historic castles to modern museums, world-class restaurants to casual pubs, there’s plenty to see and do in Scotland’s capital city. Plan ahead, bring a comfortable pair of shoes, and get ready to explore.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. As the capital of Scotland, there is a lot to see and do. Here is a step-by-step guide of how to spend your time in Edinburgh as a tourist.

1. Start at Edinburgh Castle

Your first stop should be Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop Castle Rock, dominating the city skyline. The castle has a rich history, and it’s well worth taking a guided tour to learn more about it. You can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle walls.

2. Walk down the Royal Mile

From the castle, take a walk down the Royal Mile. This is the main street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, and it’s full of shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. Be sure to check out St Giles’ Cathedral, the Heart of Midlothian, and the Museum of Edinburgh along the way.

3. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

At the far end of the Royal Mile, you’ll find the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This is the official residence of the Queen of Scotland, and it’s open to visitors. You can take a tour of the palace and the gardens, and learn more about Scotland’s royal history.

4. Explore the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best museums in the country, and it’s free to enter. It’s full of exhibits on Scottish history, art, and culture, as well as science and technology. Be sure to check out the exhibition on the Lewis Chessmen, which were discovered on the Isle of Lewis in the 19th century.

5. Have a picnic in Princes Street Gardens

After all that sightseeing, you’ll need a break. Head to Princes Street Gardens, which are situated in the heart of Edinburgh, between the Old Town and the New Town. They’re a lovely place to relax and have a picnic, with great views of Edinburgh Castle.

6. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that sits just outside Edinburgh’s city centre. It’s a popular spot for walkers and hikers, and the views from the top are breathtaking. The hike up can be challenging, but it’s well worth it.

7. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden

If you’re a fan of botanical gardens, then Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden is a must-visit. It’s one of the oldest and most prestigious botanical gardens in the world, with over 70 acres of plants, trees, and flowers. Be sure to check out the Victorian Palm House and the Queen Mother Memorial Garden.

8. Take a ghost tour

Edinburgh is famous for its ghost stories, and there are plenty of ghost tours to choose from. These tours take you through the city’s spooky alleyways and underground vaults, and tell you about the ghosts and ghouls that haunt the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, you’ll find plenty to do in this charming Scottish city. Be sure to visit these eight attractions to make the most of your time in Edinburgh.