Welcome to our latest post, where we’ll take you on a tour of the very best private tours Edinburgh has to offer. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or have lived here for years, we’ve rounded up five of the most unique and fascinating private tours that will make you see Edinburgh in a whole new light. From the city’s haunted past to its iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas, these tours will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to this incredible Scottish city. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the 5 best private tours in Edinburgh.
The 5 Best Private Tours in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Food Tour with a Local Foodie Custom & Private
- Scotch Tour Edinburgh with a Local Expert: Private & 100% Personalized
- Edinburgh Night Tour with a Local Guide: Private & 100% Personalized
- Edinburgh One Day Tour with a Local Guide : 100% Personalized & Private
- Edinburgh Luxury Private Tour with Scottish Local
The 5 Best Private Tours in Edinburgh
1. Edinburgh Food Tour with a Local Foodie Custom & Private
Taste your way through Edinburgh on a fully customizable private food and walking tour with a local foodie. Avoid the stress of navigating and discover popular establishments and hidden gems loved by locals. Your guide will lead you to pubs, bakeries, and other eateries often missed by visitors. Enjoy over 6 food tastings, which may include Scottish salmon, haggis, neeps and tatties, and Scotch pies. This 3-hour tour is fully tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour includes 6-8 tastings of local specialties accompanied by a dram of whiskey, a pint of craft beer, or fresh pressed local fruit juice. Please note that food, drinks, transportation costs, tickets to attractions, and anything else not included in the tour description are additional expenses. You can opt to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The tour meeting point is at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh, 30-34 S. Experience Edinburgh’s culinary scene with a local guide.
2. Scotch Tour Edinburgh with a Local Expert: Private & 100% Personalized
Follow a local Scotch whisky expert on a three-hour tour of some of the best watering holes in Edinburgh. This private and personalised experience includes visits to a traditional whisky cellar and a historic pub where you can taste a variety of single malt whiskys from across Scotland. Learn about the distillation process and get insider advice on where to eat and drink in Edinburgh from your knowledgeable guide. This comprehensive whisky tour is perfect for anyone looking to explore the city’s bar scene and taste some of the best Scotch whisky around. You can head directly to the meeting point at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh or request pickup. Tickets to attractions and transportation costs are not included in the experience.
3. Edinburgh Night Tour with a Local Guide: Private & 100% Personalized
See Edinburgh in a unique light with a personalized evening tour guided by a local. Spend four hours exploring the city’s nightlife scene, tailored to your interests. Your private guide will offer their undivided attention, making personalized recommendations for your trip. With transportation, attraction tickets, food and drinks included, you’ll get a personalized, hassle-free experience. Meet at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh or request pickup for ultimate convenience. Discover Edinburgh’s nightlife like a true local.
4. Edinburgh One Day Tour with a Local Guide : 100% Personalized & Private
Explore Edinburgh in the company of a local who shares the same interests as you during this fully personalized and private one-day tour. Skip crowded group tours and instead, have a bespoke itinerary created based on your own interests. Your local host will take you to some of their favorite off-the-beaten-path spots that many tourists miss. The tour is exclusive to your party, providing the flexibility to adjust the itinerary according to your preference. The tour includes eight hours with your local guide, hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations), food and drinks, tickets to any attractions, and transportation costs. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point for the tour is at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh, 30-34 St Andrew Square Edinburgh EH2 2LL UK. Upon booking, you can also request a different meeting point. Ensure a rewarding visit to Edinburgh by booking this one-of-a-kind experience.
5. Edinburgh Luxury Private Tour with Scottish Local
Explore Edinburgh with ease on a luxury private tour, accompanied by a knowledgeable Scottish local. With door-to-door chauffeur service and complimentary wifi, this tour ensures a hassle-free experience. Your private guide will tailor the itinerary to your preferences, with stops at top attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Charlotte Square. This personalized tour guarantees your guide’s full attention and a unique experience. Sit back and enjoy the ride as your private driver takes you to see the best Edinburgh has to offer. This comprehensive tour is perfect for first-time visitors and includes entrance fees to visitor attractions. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as cruise ship pickup, are also included.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is a city steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. With its stunning gothic architecture, beautiful parks and scenic views, the city attracts millions of tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, you might have some questions about the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Edinburgh that will help you plan your trip better.
1. What is the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is a city that can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in experiencing Edinburgh’s famous festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or the Hogmanay celebrations, then the best time to visit is during August or December. However, these are the busiest times of the year, and accommodation prices are likely to be high. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save money, then the best times to visit are in the shoulder seasons of April – May and September – October.
2. What are the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has a wealth of tourist attractions to explore, but some of the top attractions include:
- Edinburgh Castle: One of the most famous landmarks in the city, the castle is perched on a hilltop overlooking Edinburgh’s Old Town.
- The Royal Mile: A collection of streets that run between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Arthur’s Seat: An extinct volcano that looms over the city, and offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
- The National Museum of Scotland: A fascinating museum that tells the story of Scotland’s history and culture.
- The Scott Monument: A tribute to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous writers.
3. What is the best way to get around Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot, but if you’re looking to cover larger distances, then public transport is the best option. The city has an efficient bus system that runs throughout the city, and the tram system is also a good option for getting around. If you’re planning on exploring the surrounding countryside, then renting a car is a good option.
4. What is Edinburgh’s weather like?
Edinburgh has a maritime climate, which means that it can be quite changeable throughout the year. Summers are usually mild with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C, while winter temperatures can drop to around 2°C. Rain is common in Edinburgh throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella, no matter when you decide to visit.
5. What are some traditional Scottish dishes to try in Edinburgh?
Scotland is famous for its hearty cuisine and there are some traditional dishes that you must try when you’re in Edinburgh. Some of the top dishes that you should try include haggis (a savoury pudding made from sheep’s heart, liver and lungs), Cullen skink (a creamy Scottish soup made with smoked haddock), and Cullenbie (a type of smoked haddock with a poached egg). If you’re looking for something sweet, then you must try a traditional Scottish shortbread or cranachan (a creamy dessert made with raspberries, oats and cream).
6. What is the best way to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife?
Edinburgh has a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, pubs and clubs to choose from. Some of the best places to experience Edinburgh’s nightlife include the Grassmarket area in the Old Town, George Street in the New Town and the Cowgate area. There are also plenty of traditional Scottish pubs that offer a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Is Edinburgh a safe city?
Edinburgh is generally considered to be a safe city for tourists. However, like any big city, there are certain areas that you should be cautious in, especially at night. It’s always a good idea to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in quiet streets after dark.
8. What is the best way to save money in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh can be an expensive city to visit, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you’re looking to save money, then consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April – May or September – October), when accommodation prices are lower. You can also save money by using public transport instead of taxis, eating at local cafes instead of restaurants, and taking advantage of free attractions such as museums and galleries.
9. How many days do you need to explore Edinburgh?
To fully explore Edinburgh and its surrounding areas, you’ll need at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to visit the top attractions, explore some of the city’s hidden gems, and take a day trip to the surrounding countryside.
10. What is the best way to experience Edinburgh’s festivals?
Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, which include the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh International Festival and the Hogmanay celebrations. To make the most of the festivals, book your accommodation well in advance and plan your itinerary to include the top events that you’re interested in. It’s also a good idea to budget for the festivals, as prices for accommodation and restaurants are likely to be higher.
The 5 Best Private Tours in Edinburgh: Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, you might be looking for the best private tours to get a deeper understanding of the city’s history, culture and landscapes. Here are the 5 best private tours in Edinburgh that you should consider:
1. Edinburgh History and Culture Private Tour
The Edinburgh History and Culture Private Tour introduces you to the rich history, culture and architecture of Scotland’s capital city. This walking tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who will show you around Old Town and New Town, take you to Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and other landmarks.
What are the highlights of this tour?
- Walk around the historic Old Town and New Town
- Visit Edinburgh Castle, the most famous attraction
- Explore St. Giles Cathedral and other landmarks
- Learn about the history of Edinburgh and Scotland
How long does this tour take?
This tour lasts about 3-4 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
How much does this tour cost?
The cost of this tour is around 100-150 pounds per person, depending on the size of the group.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for older children and teenagers who are interested in history and culture.
2. Royal Mile and Hidden Gems Private Tour
The Royal Mile and Hidden Gems Private Tour is perfect for those who want to see the lesser-known side of Edinburgh. This tour takes you to the secret places, hidden gardens, and narrow streets of the city.
What are the highlights of this tour?
- Discover the hidden corners and narrow streets of Edinburgh
- Visit the secret gardens and lesser-known landmarks
- Walk along the Royal Mile and hear stories from the past
- See the picturesque views of the city from the hilltops
How long does this tour take?
This tour lasts about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
How much does this tour cost?
The cost of this tour is around 80-120 pounds per person, depending on the size of the group.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
3. Outlander Private Tour
The Outlander Private Tour is a must for fans of the popular TV series. This tour takes you to the locations used in Outlander and shows you the real-life historical events that inspired the show. You’ll visit castles, palaces, and a quaint village that serves as the scene for the show’s 1940s setting.
What are the highlights of this tour?
- Visit the locations used in Outlander TV series
- See the real-life historical events that inspired the show
- Visit castles, palaces and other landmarks
- Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and views of Scotland
How long does this tour take?
This tour lasts about 8-10 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
How much does this tour cost?
The cost of this tour is around 300-400 pounds per person, depending on the size of the group.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for children of all ages, especially those who are fans of the Outlander series.
4. Whisky Tasting Private Tour
The Whisky Tasting Private Tour takes you on a journey through the world of Scottish whisky. You’ll visit whisky distilleries, learn about the whisky-making process, and taste some of the finest Scotch in the world. You’ll visit the famous distilleries of Glenkinchie, Balvenie, Laphroaig, and others.
What are the highlights of this tour?
- Visit whisky distilleries and learn about the whisky-making process
- Taste some of the finest Scotch whiskies in the world
- See the picturesque landscapes of Scotland
- Enjoy a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide
How long does this tour take?
This tour lasts about 8-10 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
How much does this tour cost?
The cost of this tour is around 300-400 pounds per person, depending on the size of the group.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is only suitable for adults who are over 18 years old.
5. Harry Potter Private Tour
The Harry Potter Private Tour is perfect for fans of the famous book and movie series. You’ll visit the locations used in the movies, learn about the history of magic in Edinburgh, and see the places that inspired J.K. Rowling’s famous fictional world.
What are the highlights of this tour?
- Visit the locations used in the Harry Potter movies
- Learn about the history of magic in Edinburgh
- See the places that inspired J.K. Rowling’s fictional world
- Enjoy a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide
How long does this tour take?
This tour lasts about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
How much does this tour cost?
The cost of this tour is around 80-120 pounds per person, depending on the size of the group.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is suitable for children of all ages, especially those who are fans of the Harry Potter series.
Conclusion
These are the 5 best private tours in Edinburgh that you can take to see the city’s rich history, culture and landmarks. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, whisky or popular movies, there’s a tour for you. Make sure to choose the one that suits your interests, time and budget, and book in advance to avoid disappointment. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get to know Edinburgh in a deeper way and make unforgettable memories.
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