Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its stunning architecture, scenic landscapes, and fascinating stories make it an excellent destination for travelers. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful city is through guided tours. With so many tours available, it can be challenging to choose which one to take. In this blog post, we will highlight the two best city tours in Edinburgh that offer unique experiences and a chance to explore the city’s best attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, these tours will surely make your trip to Edinburgh an unforgettable one.

The 2 Best City Tours in Edinburgh

1. Edinburgh: Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
2. Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

The 2 Best City Tours in Edinburgh

1. Edinburgh: Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a Harry Potter-themed walking tour across Edinburgh with this magical guided tour. Discover the city that inspired JK Rowling’s famous books and see the place where she wrote them. The tour lasts for 2 hours and takes you to Greyfriars Kirkyard, Potterrow, Victoria Street, Grassmarket, and Royal Mile Edinburgh.

Be sorted into your Hogwarts House and test your Harry Potter knowledge with an audio-visual quiz while earning points for your house. Visit the real Grave of Tom Riddle in Greyfriars Kirkyard and pass by JK Rowling’s golden handprints outside City Chambers.

Please meet your tour guide at the William Chambers Monument in Edinburgh. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Note that no Harry Potter film locations are included in this tour as no filming took place in Edinburgh.

The tour includes a walking tour and a knowledgeable guide who will take you through the city’s Harry Potter history with great enthusiasm. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Edinburgh through the lens of Harry Potter, and discover the magic that inspired one of the most famous book sagas of all time.

2. Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

Explore Scotland’s most famous product with the Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting. Begin your guided tour by learning about the production and maturation process of single malt Scotch whisky. Then, take a sensory journey across Scotland and discover the unique aromas and characteristics of the five Scotch whisky-producing regions.

In the Blenders’ Sample Room, learn the secrets of how the world-famous blends are created. The glass vault, containing one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky, is also a part of the tour. Visitors over 18 years of age will receive a crystal tasting glass to take home as a souvenir.

For the Gold Tour option, guests will compare and contrast four regional single malts while relaxing in the McIntyre Gallery, with experienced guides and tasting notes provided.

This fully guided tour is available in English, with audio guides available in 20 different languages. It includes a whisky tasting or soft drink option, a gift of a crystal tasting glass for visitors over 18 years of age, and a tasting tray of 4 additional single malt Scotch whiskies (if the Gold Tour option is selected).

The Scotch Whisky Experience is located at the top of The Royal Mile beside Edinburgh Castle. Remember to bring official photo ID to prove that you are over 18 years of age for tasting whisky.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a historic city in Scotland that attracts thousands of tourists every year. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and numerous attractions, Edinburgh has something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful city, you might have some questions about what to expect. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh is during the months of May to September. The weather is generally mild, and there are many festivals and events happening during this time. The most popular events include the Edinburgh International Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. However, the city can be quite crowded during these events, so make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

If you prefer a quieter time to visit Edinburgh, consider going in the off-season, between October to April. Although the weather can be colder and wetter during this time, you will find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

What Are The Top Attractions In Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is home to many world-famous attractions. Below are some of the top attractions that you should not miss:

• Edinburgh Castle: This iconic fortress sits on a hill overlooking the city and is one of Scotland’s most visited attractions.
• The Royal Mile: This ancient street is home to many historic landmarks and buildings, including St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Scottish Parliament.
• The National Museum of Scotland: This museum has a vast collection of artifacts that trace Scotland’s history and culture, from prehistoric times to the present day.
• The Scottish National Gallery: This gallery houses a stunning collection of art, including works by Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
• The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: This botanical garden is one of the world’s oldest and largest, with over 70 acres of plants, flowers, and trees.

What Is The Best Way To Get Around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has an excellent public transport system that includes buses, trams, and trains. The city center is small enough to explore on foot, so if the weather is mild, it is the best way to see the city up close. However, if you want to see more of the city or travel outside the city center, public transport is the way to go.

You can purchase a day ticket for the bus or tram, which allows unlimited travel for the whole day. You can also get a tourist pass, which includes admission to many of the city’s attractions and discounts on public transport.

What Is The Local Cuisine Like?

Scotland is known for its hearty cuisine, and Edinburgh is no exception. Some of the traditional dishes to try include haggis, neeps, and tatties (a dish made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, swede, and potatoes), Cullen skink (a creamy smoked fish soup), and fish and chips.

If you’re looking for something a little different, Edinburgh has plenty of international food options, from Italian to Thai to Indian.

What Are The Best Day Trips From Edinburgh?

If you have more time to spend in Scotland, you might want to consider taking a day trip from Edinburgh. Some of the most popular day trips include:

• The Scottish Highlands: This breathtaking region of Scotland is known for its rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and Scottish wildlife.
• St. Andrews: This charming university town is famous for its golf course, stunning beaches, and historic cathedral.
• The Isle of Skye: This remote island is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, with rugged mountains, clear turquoise waters, and charming villages.
• Glasgow: Scotland’s biggest city is just a short train ride away from Edinburgh and is home to many museums, art galleries, and world-class restaurants.

These are just a few examples of the many day trips you can take from Edinburgh. Depending on your interests, there are many more destinations to explore.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a fascinating city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to soak up the Scottish atmosphere, Edinburgh is the place to be. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have helped you plan your trip to this fantastic city.

Remember to book your accommodation and tickets for popular attractions in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. With a little bit of planning, your trip to Edinburgh is sure to be unforgettable!