Edinburgh City Bike Tour – Choice of E-Bike or Manual

If you’re considering a way to see Edinburgh that’s more personal and flexible than a standard walking tour or bus ride, a bike tour might just be the answer. We’ve read a lot of reviews and details about Ricky’s Edinburgh City Bike Tour, and from what we gather, it’s a well-loved way to experience the city’s lesser-known corners and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, this tour offers an accessible way to get around and absorb the local vibe.

What really catches the eye is the option of choosing an electric bike or a traditional one—a smart inclusion that makes the tour accessible to a wider range of travelers, especially those who aren’t as confident pedaling uphill or covering long distances. Plus, the small-group format (max 15 people) promises a more intimate experience, where guides can share more detailed stories and answer questions more easily.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour lasts around two and a half hours, which is a good chunk of time, especially if you’re not used to cycling or have mobility concerns. The price, at around $86.76 per person, seems reasonable given the range of sights covered and the overall experience, but it’s worth comparing with other options if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a dynamic, outdoor adventure that combines sightseeing with light exercise—perfect for those who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace and love discovering off-the-beaten-path parts of a city. It’s also great for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides sharing stories and facts along the way. If you’re visiting Edinburgh and want a fun, active way to see the city’s highlights and secret spots, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Small group size allows for a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.
• Choice of e-bike or manual bike helps cater to different fitness levels and confidence.
• Diverse itinerary takes you from city center sights to seaside and rural spots, including Arthur’s Seat and Leith.
• Comfort and safety are prioritized with helmets, gloves, rain jackets, and attentive guides.
• Ideal for active travelers who want to see a wide range of locations without the crowds.
• Great reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and enjoyable pace.

Discovering Edinburgh on Two Wheels

We’ll start with the basics: this tour lasts about 2.5 hours and covers a good mix of city sights, nature, and seaside views. The fact that it’s a small-group experience (max 15 people) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide can provide tailored comments and answer questions more freely. It’s a good way to get a feel for both the well-known and hidden parts of Edinburgh without the hassle of navigating yourself.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

1. Union Canal and Edinburgh Quay
The tour kicks off at Edinburgh Quay, the eastern end of the Union Canal. This spot isn’t usually the top tourist attraction, but it offers a lovely view of water and boats, making for a peaceful starting point. It’s just a quick visit, but you’ll appreciate the vibe of this less-visited area.

2. Bruntsfield Links
Next, you’ll stop at this historic golf course. It’s a pretty scene—think old-world charm with a hint of sports history—giving you a breather before heading into the city’s green spaces. These stops are brief (around 5 minutes each) but packed with interesting tidbits that guide sharing their local knowledge.

3. The Meadows
One of Edinburgh’s biggest parks, The Meadows offers sweeping green spaces and views of the old Royal Infirmary. Riding through here, you get a slice of city life mixed with nature, and it’s a popular spot for locals—so you’ll see a different side of Edinburgh than from the tourist hotspots.

4. Holyrood & Arthur’s Seat
The highlight for many is getting close to Arthur’s Seat, the ancient volcanic rock towering on the edge of Holyrood Park. The guide will take you to a secret garden nearby, where you can appreciate the views and get up close with the unique volcanic rock formations. It’s a fantastic photo op and a chance to learn about the geology of the area. “Great way to see sites of Edinburgh and surrounding area,” one reviewer raves about this portion.

5. Portobello Beach
Yes, Edinburgh has a beach! And it’s surprisingly charming—a long stretch of sandy shoreline with views across the Firth of Fife. It’s a peaceful break from city hustle and a spot that many don’t think to visit on a quick city trip. The 15-minute stop here is just enough to breathe in the sea air and snap a few photos.

6. Leith
This working-class maritime neighborhood has a gritty, authentic vibe. The architecture is varied and full of character, and its history as a proud port area adds depth to your experience. You’ll spend around 15 minutes here, soaking up the local flavor and maybe catching some views of the dockyards.

7. Return via Water of Leith & Georgian Streets
You’ll cruise back toward the city along converted railway lines along the Water of Leith, then glide through the elegant Georgian streets of Edinburgh’s New Town. Your guide will point out interesting details about the architecture and city planning, making the ride both scenic and educational.

8. Calton Hill Viewpoint
While not visiting the hill itself, the tour stops at a vantage point offering spectacular views back toward the city. It’s an excellent place for photos and to appreciate Edinburgh’s skyline before heading back to the starting point.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The choice of electric or manual bikes is a thoughtful touch. For those less confident or who’d rather save their energy for sightseeing, e-bikes make a noticeable difference—reviewers often mention how much easier it made hills and longer stretches. “The e-bikes were in good shape,” a comment from a satisfied rider highlights, which is reassuring for those concerned about bike quality.

Guides play a central role here. From the reviews, it’s clear that Ricky’s guides are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and attentive to safety. They take the time to share stories, answer questions, and even help with photos—a small touch but one that makes the experience more memorable.

The pacing seems just right; you’re kept moving but not rushed, and the stops are brief but meaningful. The overall route covers a lot of ground, giving you a broad sense of Edinburgh’s diverse neighborhoods and natural landscapes.

The Value of This Tour

At just under $87, the price per person includes bike hire, safety gear, and the guidance of an experienced local. Given the range of stops and the opportunity to see places that buses and walking tours might miss, many reviews suggest it’s a good deal. One reviewer raves, “no better way to spend 3 hours,” emphasizing how much you can cover in a short time while still having fun.

Practical Considerations

• Weather matters: Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so a rain jacket is included, but check the forecast before booking.
• Fitness level: The tour is accessible with e-bikes, but if you stick to traditional bikes, some hills might be a challenge—though many reviewers found the pace manageable.
• Booking ahead: The tour tends to be booked about 39 days in advance, so plan early if you want a spot, especially during high season.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This bike tour is perfect if you’re looking for a flexible, active way to see Edinburgh’s diverse sights. It suits travelers who enjoy being outdoors, want to avoid crowded bus routes, and appreciate a guide who can share insider knowledge and stories. It’s especially good for those who want to combine sightseeing with a light workout and enjoy scenic views along the way.

While not specifically designed for families, mature teens or older children comfortable on bikes could join, especially with the e-bike option. If you’re a solo traveler, this is a great way to meet others in a small-group setting.

Final Thoughts

Ricky’s Edinburgh City Bike Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the city’s hidden corners and scenic spots. With knowledgeable guides, flexible bike options, and a thoughtfully curated route, it’s a fantastic choice for active travelers seeking a personal connection to Edinburgh. The stops at Portobello Beach and Arthur’s Seat particularly stand out, providing moments of tranquility and awe that you wouldn’t get on a typical city tour.

If you’re after an experience that’s both fun and informative, will take you off the beaten path, and allows you to see Edinburgh at a relaxed but energetic pace, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, pack appropriate clothing, and get ready for a memorable adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? The e-bike is only available for riders aged 14 and older, so older teens can join if they’re comfortable biking. Younger children might find the pace or distance challenging, so check with the provider if you’re unsure.

What if I’m not confident on bikes? The e-bike option makes it easier to handle hills and longer distances. Many reviewers found it very manageable even if they’re not regular cyclists.

Does the tour include any entrance fees? No, all stops are free to explore, and the tour only covers the riding and guidance.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, a rain jacket, and sunglasses are advisable. Bikes come with helmets, gloves, and pannier bags if needed.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy—if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far do we cycle? The itinerary covers significant ground, including city streets, green parks, seaside, and neighborhoods, but the pace is relaxed and adaptable.

All in all, Ricky’s Edinburgh City Bike Tour gives you a lively, scenic, and personal way to see Edinburgh—and it’s a route many reviews say they’d do again.