New! Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour with Eating Europe

If you’re thinking about lacing up your walking shoes to explore Edinburgh’s famed Old and New Towns through a culinary lens, this tour might catch your eye. We’ve had a good look at the experience, which is praised consistently for its knowledgeable guides and delicious bites, and we’re here to share what makes it stand out — and what you might want to consider before booking.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines authentic Scottish cuisine with the chance to wander through Edinburgh’s most iconic streets, like Victoria Street and the Grassmarket. Plus, the tour’s timing during the Fringe Festival offers an extra splash of local vibrancy, which makes it even more engaging. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 1.5 to 3 hours, which can be a good stretch if you’re not used to long walks or have limited mobility. But overall, this experience suits anyone eager to taste their way through Edinburgh while soaking up the lively atmosphere and historic sights.

If you’re a foodie who enjoys pairing stories with bites, or someone curious about Edinburgh’s culture beyond the typical landmarks, this tour could be just right. It’s especially great for travelers who appreciate small group settings and the chance to learn about local food traditions from passionate guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish flavors: From haggis with whisky ketchup to seafood, the tour showcases local specialties.
• Beautiful city views: Stops at Princes Street and Victoria Street offer breathtaking sights and photo ops.
• Insightful guides: Consistently praised guides bring history and stories alive while making the experience personal.
• Flexible experience: The tour includes a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural insights, suited for diverse interests.
• Fringe Festival bonus: Special edition during August offers a unique chance to enjoy street performances along with the food.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a relaxed pace and more personal interactions.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at the Paddington Bear Statue in St Andrew Square, a fitting starting point in Edinburgh’s elegant New Town. Here, you’ll begin your culinary journey with a visit to Cafe Royal, an elegant seafood restaurant boasting a Parisian-inspired interior. You’ll enjoy a half scotch egg, which varies seasonally — smoked salmon in summer or venison in winter. This stop is a nice way to ease into the food scene and take in the stylish ambiance, all without a direct cost since admission is free.

Next, you’ll head to Landy’s Fish and Chips on the Royal Mile, a local favorite renowned for its fish and chips. You’ll get a taste of Scottish comfort food—freshly battered haddock with crispy chips—and a soft drink of your choice. This is the classic Edinburgh experience, and many reviews highlight how memorable and well-executed the meal is. One guest mentioned, “We loved the Scotch egg from Cafe Royal and the fish and chips — truly local favorites.”

Moving along, the tour pauses at the Royal Mile Tavern, a cherished pub known for its hearty pies and locally brewed ales. Here, you’ll likely see the cozy, eclectic interior that many reviews describe as inviting and authentic. You’ll enjoy a traditional pie paired with a pint, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic street corner.

One of the tour’s standout stops is the Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. This cozy café has specialized in haggis for over 20 years and offers it with whisky ketchup—a flavor combo that surprises many visitors. You also get to sample Scottish soft drinks, making for a genuine taste of local flavor. According to reviews, this is a must-try spot, especially the haggis, which is often the highlight.

A walk along Victoria Street takes you to one of Edinburgh’s most colorful and iconic streets. This winding lane, thought to have inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, provides a vibrant backdrop for photos and a chance to soak up the city’s whimsical charm. The views from Princes Street overlook Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill, offering a scenic pause to appreciate the city’s layout and history.

The Grassmarket area is next—another beloved spot—where the tour highlights modern takes on Scottish sweets like donuts and award-winning ice cream. It’s a sweet stop that many reviews describe as delightful, especially when enjoyed with local flavors in mind.

Finally, the visit to Mellis Cheese on Victoria Street offers a chance to sample Scottish cheeses crafted from local farms. This tiny cheesemonger is family-owned, adding a personal touch to your tasting experience.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get plenty of stories and background from guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One review lauded a guide named Ailsa, saying she was “wonderful, teaching, guiding, and feeling like an old friend.” The guides are key to making the experience memorable—they blend historical tidbits with food insights seamlessly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price point—around $91 per person—reflects a curated experience that mixes multiple tastings with cultural insights. Included are Scottish cheeses, sweets, and drinks at select stops, plus the chance to stroll through historic streets and learn about Edinburgh’s vibrant food scene.

However, extras like gratuities, additional drinks, or hotel pickups are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to enjoy a drink at some stops or tip the guides for their effort. The tour is also accommodating for gluten-free or vegan diets at most stops, which is a nice touch for dietary restrictions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is suited for food lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Edinburgh’s streets. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy small group settings—being limited to 12 people ensures a cozy atmosphere where everyone can chat freely. If you like trying local flavors paired with stories, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your trip.

Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they’re interested in Scottish culture and cuisine. But keep in mind, it involves walking and some standing, so consider mobility needs.

The Experience During Fringe Festival

One of the special features of this tour is its Fringe Festival edition during August. As the city buzzes with street performers and lively shows, this tour becomes an even more immersive experience—combining delicious bites with the festival’s vibrant street scene. Guests say it adds an extra layer of fun, and many reviews mention how entertaining the street performances complement the tasting stops.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Meeting Point: Paddington Bear Statue at St Andrew Square.
• Ending Point: 23 Grassmarket, a lively area to continue exploring or grabbing a drink.
• Cost: About $91 per person, worth it if you enjoy a mix of food, culture, and socializing.
• Group Size: Small, intimate experience—max 12 travelers, making it ideal for personal interactions.
• Accessibility: Most stops are suitable for gluten-free or vegan diets, but options might be limited at certain locations.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after an authentic taste of Scottish cuisine set against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s stunning streets, this tour delivers. The mix of delicious food, friendly guides, and scenic views makes it a strong choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with bites from local favorites. The special Fringe edition during August is a bonus if you’re visiting at that time.

However, if you’re looking for a full-day culinary adventure or prefer a more structured, museum-like experience, this might feel a bit light. It’s best suited for curious travelers who love walking, chatting, and discovering hidden gems through food.

In essence, this tour offers a genuine, flavorful, and friendly introduction to Edinburgh’s culinary side—perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxed, tasty, and informative walk through the city’s historic streets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for dietary restrictions?
Most stops can accommodate gluten-free or vegan diets, but options may be limited at certain locations. It’s best to check with the guide on the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from about 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the pace and group size. It involves a fair amount of walking around Edinburgh’s historic streets.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons like August Fringe Festival, to secure a spot.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes tastings at various stops—Scottish cheeses, sweets, fish and chips, pub fare—as well as the guides’ insights into Edinburgh’s culture and history.

Can I join the tour if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. The small group size and friendly guides make it a great option for solo travelers looking to meet others.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Paddington Bear Statue in St Andrew Square and finishes at Grassmarket, giving you the option to continue exploring or grab a drink nearby.

If you’re after a relaxed exploration of Edinburgh with plenty of tasty bites and good stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you love local food, street scenes, and intimate guided walks. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite—you’re in for a flavorful journey through Scotland’s capital.