Edinburgh is a city that invites exploration on two wheels. Its compact center, scenic parks, and seaside charm make it a perfect playground for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re pedaling past the Royal Mile or soaking in views from Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s blend of urban and natural landscapes truly shines from a bike seat. We particularly love the Sky to Sea Bike Tour, which covers everything from historic landmarks to sandy beaches in just a few hours, offering a full dose of what makes this city special []. Plus, options for electric bikes make conquering hills easier, so everyone can enjoy the ride.
Not only does Edinburgh boast a variety of guided city tours, but it also offers longer adventures into the Scottish Highlands and family-friendly trips to the coast. Whether you’re after a quick overview or a full-day excursion, there’s a bike experience tailored to your interests. Below, we’ve rounded up the top twelve rides, highlighting what makes each one stand out and helping you choose the best fit.
The list below includes a mix of urban explorations, scenic mountain rides, family outings, and even full-day Highland adventures. Each offers a unique way to see Edinburgh and beyond at a relaxed pace.
Now, let’s jump into our detailed reviews of the best bike tours in Edinburgh.
1. Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike or E-Bike Tour with Transfer
Starting with one of the most comprehensive options on our list, the Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour takes you from Arthur’s Seat to the beaches of Portobello and the Port of Leith. This nearly five-hour ride is perfect for active travelers wanting to see Edinburgh’s diverse landscapes without rushing. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. You can choose between a manual or electric bike, allowing for different fitness levels or a more relaxed ride.
What makes this tour stand out is its broad scope — you’ll cycle past Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, a dormant volcano, and historic port areas. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guide Johann and the excellent condition of the bikes, especially the e-bikes, which make hills a breeze. Guests love how much ground they cover in a short time, and the mix of natural scenery and city sights keeps things interesting. For a balanced adventure with a focus on scenery and history, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: An active, full-scope ride for those who want a lot in a half-day, with the flexibility of electric bikes and hotel pickup.
2. Edinburgh City Bike Tour – Choice of E-Bike or Manual
For those wanting a relaxed, more intimate experience, consider the Edinburgh City Bike Tour. This two-and-a-half-hour small-group ride explores hidden corners of the city, avoiding the crowds of the city center. You’ll access spots buses can’t reach, such as the Union Canal at Edinburgh Quay, Bruntsfield Links golf course, and the lush Meadows Park.
The tour includes a choice of traditional or e-bike, and guests rave about the enthusiastic guide Ricky, who shares insights about Edinburgh’s architecture and local stories. The route is gentle, making it suitable for families, casual riders, or anyone wanting a quick but enriching overview. A highlight is cruising past the seaside at Portobello and exploring Leith, giving you a flavor of both the city and coast.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those short on time but wanting a deep dive into Edinburgh’s lesser-known sights, especially if you prefer a smaller group.
3. Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour
At number 3, the Edinburgh Scenic Bike Tour offers a three-hour escape into the city’s natural beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to see Edinburgh’s most impressive vistas without rushing. You’ll ride through Holyrood Park, walk to Arthur’s Seat, and visit landmarks like the Scottish Parliament and the historic inn at the Old Town.
This tour is praised for its personalized approach, often running with just two riders, allowing your guide to tailor the pace. The e-bike option helps tackle the hills easily, and guests note the guide’s humor and local knowledge make the experience memorable. Expect to see scenic views, historic sites, and secret gardens as you pedal through this diverse landscape.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a leisurely, scenic overview with a knowledgeable guide and the option of e-bikes for hills.
4. ‘A Wee Pedal’s’ Award-Winning Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh!
For about $115, ‘A Wee Pedal’s’ Circular Cycle Tour offers a personalized, small-group experience lasting nearly four and a half hours. Covering around 20 miles, it takes you from Craigmillar Castle through Dean Village, Leith, and Portobello, moving through both historic and coastal areas most travelers miss.
This tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path sights and local stories, with a maximum of six riders for a personal feel. The route includes crossing original bridges, passing through the Water of Leith, and exploring the rejuvenated Saughton Park. Reviewers love the guide’s flexibility, the variety of scenery, and the chance to see Edinburgh from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an in-depth, relaxed ride with a small group and an authentic local experience.
5. Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bike Tour
The Edinburgh Sightseeing Bike Tour is a three-hour guided ride covering the city’s highlights, from the city center to the seaside. It’s suitable for riders of all levels, with an option for an e-bike. The tour explores hidden spots and urban landmarks, with storytelling from a knowledgeable guide.
Guests especially enjoy the mix of urban exploration and coastal scenery, with stops at secret pathways and local neighborhoods. The tour is praised for its balance of fun, pace, and storytelling, making it a good choice for those who want to learn about Edinburgh while staying active.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded city tour with a good mix of highlights, suitable for those who want both history and scenery with minimal time investment.
6. Family Friendly Cycle Tour to Edinburgh’s Coast
If you’re traveling with kids, the Family Friendly Cycle Tour offers a gentle 3-hour ride on mostly traffic-free paths. Covering around 12 miles, it takes you from Craigmillar Park through Holyrood Park and onto the coast for some seaside relaxation. All safety gear is provided, and the route is flat, making it accessible for most ages.
Guests rave about the guide’s friendliness and the pace suited for families. Highlights include Craigmillar Castle, Arthur’s Seat (from a distance), and the opportunity to stop for ice cream or coffee at the seaside. The route’s focus on safety and relaxed pace makes it a hit among parents and kids alike.
Bottom Line: Designed for families or casual cyclists wanting a low-impact, scenic ride that includes a break at the seaside.
7. Scottish Highlands Freedom Bike & E-Bike Tour with Transfers
For those craving a full-day journey, the Highlands Bike & E-Bike Tour offers an 9-hour trip into Scotland’s wild beauty. The tour includes hotel pickup and a route past Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. You can choose between a manual or electric mountain bike to explore the rugged landscape along a disused railway line.
Guests love the experiences of visiting Doune Castle and Balquhidder Church Ruins, with stops for photos and exploration. The guide’s expert knowledge shines as you pass landscapes most travelers never see. The long day suits those comfortable with a full adventure and looking to see the highlands’ stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: For adventure travelers and history lovers who want a comprehensive day trip into the Scottish countryside, this tour delivers.
8. Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour max 10 people small group
If you want to cover as much as possible in a short time, the Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour is a great choice. Lasting around 2 hours 45 minutes and limited to 10 people, this ride takes you from Holyrood Palace up Arthur’s Seat, then through the Old Town and New Town. The e-bikes make climbing hills easy, and guests rave about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness.
Special features include riding through picturesque gardens and historic streets, with local insights throughout. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, energetic overview of Edinburgh’s most famous sights with minimal effort.
Bottom Line: Ideal for busy travelers who want maximum coverage in a short, guided ride with a small group.
9. Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (family friendly)
This 3-hour family-focused ride takes you from the city center to Portobello Beach, passing Holyrood Park and the Victorian railway tunnel. It’s designed for all ages, with traffic-free paths and a gentle pace. Guests can enjoy views of Arthur’s Seat from afar and stop at the seaside for a break.
It’s a simple, scenic route perfect for families wanting to combine sightseeing with some fresh air and fun at the beach. The tour’s flexibility and focus on safety make it popular with parents seeking a relaxed day out.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly option that combines city sights, nature, and seaside fun in a manageable route.
10. ‘A Wee Pedal’s’ E-bike Tour of Arthur’s Seat and Beyond
This award-winning tour combines history, panoramic views, and easy cycling around Arthur’s Seat on electric bikes. The 2.5-hour ride is tailored for all heights, with guides sharing stories about Mary Queen of Scots and the ancient castle ruins. The route includes stops at Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, and scenic overlooks.
Guests praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the e-bikes’ ability to make hill climbs effortless, even in rain or shine. It’s especially suited for those interested in a blend of history and stunning scenery without the physical strain.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended choice for those wanting a relaxed yet rich experience around Edinburgh’s most iconic backdrop.
11. Edinburgh: 20-mile cycle tour (mostly traffic free)
For serious cyclists, this 20-mile loop circumnavigates much of Edinburgh on paved, mostly traffic-free paths. It starts at Bridgend Farm and crosses landmarks like Dean Village, Leith, and Holyrood Park. The route is described as scenic and safe, with stops for photos and refreshments.
Guests love the smooth ride, the knowledgeable guide Jill, and the chance to see large parts of Edinburgh without busy roads. It’s best suited for those comfortable on longer rides and looking to cover a lot of ground.
Bottom Line: Perfect for experienced cyclists wanting an all-encompassing tour with minimal traffic.
12. Edinburgh: E-Bike Tour with Scenic Views
Finally, this E-bike Scenic Tour covers Edinburgh’s landmarks and secret spots in about two hours. Expect to glide past Holyrood Palace, Dean Village, and Leith, with stunning viewpoints along the way. The e-bike makes climbing Arthur’s Seat and other hills easier, giving everyone the chance to enjoy panoramic views.
Guests highlight the smooth ride and the opportunity to see both historic sites and hidden corners without breaking a sweat. It’s a great option for those wanting a quick, scenic overview of the city’s best sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent, flexible option for travelers short on time but eager for a comprehensive, scenic experience.
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour for You
Picking the right bike tour depends on your fitness level, time availability, and curiosity. If you want a full day of varied landscapes and history, the Sky to Sea Bike Tour offers the most comprehensive experience. For a quick overview of city highlights, the Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour or the Edinburgh City Bike Tour are excellent options. Families will enjoy the Family Friendly Coast Ride, while cycling enthusiasts should consider the 20-mile mostly traffic-free tour for its extensive route.
For those seeking a scenic ride with minimal effort, e-bike options dominate. Book early during peak seasons, especially for guided small groups or full-day Highland trips.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh’s bike tours are a fantastic way to see the city’s diverse charm—from historic streets to seaside escapes and rugged mountains. Whether you’re after a short city spin or a full-day Highland adventure, there’s an option suited for your interests and fitness. For the best experience, consider your comfort with hills, your time constraints, and if you prefer guided storytelling or independent exploration.
Our top picks include the full-spectrum Sky to Sea Tour for a detailed day out, and the small-group e-bike rides for intimacy and ease. Remember, booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and a spot on popular tours. Happy cycling!
Explore more about Edinburgh’s scenic beauty and historical richness with these tours and discover the city in an active, memorable way.
