Edinburgh: The Complete Guide to the Old and New

If you’re considering a guided walking tour of Edinburgh, this experience promises a comprehensive look at both the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a solid way to get a real sense of what makes Edinburgh special.

What stands out? First, the way the tour balances famous landmarks with stories and local color—think the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Victoria Street. Second, the fact that it covers both the old and new parts of the city, giving a full picture in just five hours. But, a potential consideration is the walking involved—this tour involves navigating uneven surfaces and historic streets, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour looks like an excellent fit for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a deep dive into Edinburgh’s character without spending all day on it.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized tour with a knowledgeable guide, and you’re okay with a fair amount of walking, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and a manageable schedule.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns in 5 hours
• Guided walking tour with a focus on history, landmarks, and stories
• Includes iconic stops like Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Scott Monument
• Easy to follow itinerary designed for a full but manageable day of exploration
• Accessible for most, including wheelchair users
• No entry to attractions included, but stories and history are front and center

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a solid overview of Edinburgh’s most notable sights, blending history, architecture, and local stories. Starting outside Tron Kirk, the guide sets the tone with tales of Edinburgh’s volcanic origins—an interesting detail that highlights just how ancient and layered the city is.

The Beginning: A Historic Walk Through Old Edinburgh

You’ll begin your journey on the historic Royal Mile, a stretch packed with character. From here, you’ll see St Giles Cathedral, an impressive structure dating back to the 14th century. The guide will point out its crown spire and the intricate Thistle Chapel, giving you context about Scotland’s religious and ceremonial traditions.

As you pass the City Chambers, you’ll learn how Edinburgh’s governance has evolved. Then, the highlight is Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castlehill. While the tour doesn’t include entry, you’ll hear stories about its royal history, warfare, and folklore—these tales enrich the view of this iconic fortress. Based on reviews, many appreciate the depth of storytelling here, with one traveler mentioning how much they learned about the city’s past.

Walking through Victoria Street, you’ll see a bustling, colorful lane filled with quirky shops. This street is perfect for photos and soaking in Edinburgh’s lively, eclectic atmosphere. The nearby Grassmarket Square is equally engaging, historically a hub for traders and public executions, now a lively gathering spot with vivid tales of daring escapes and infamous criminals.

Cemeteries and Universities: Stories from Greyfriars Kirkyard and Old College

Your walk continues to Greyfriars Kirkyard, famous for the legend of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier. This story touches many, and the guide will recount the touching tale of a dog’s loyalty. The cemetery itself adds a layer of somber beauty and history to the city’s story.

Next, you’ll explore the university quarter, home to the Old College of the University of Edinburgh. This institution has been around since the 16th century and boasts famous alumni like Charles Darwin and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The guide will share insights into its role during the Scottish Enlightenment, giving you a sense of the city’s intellectual spirit.

Transition to the New Town

Crossing North Bridge, you’ll enjoy views of both Old and New Towns. The first stop in the New Town is the Balmoral Hotel, known for its clock tower set a few minutes fast—an amusing detail for travelers catching trains from Waverley Station.

From there, the towering Scott Monument takes center stage. This Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott symbolizes the romantic image of Scotland that Scott helped craft. Your guide will explain how Scott’s legacy influences Scottish identity and how the monument is a must-see for literary fans.

Walking down Princes Street, you’ll see Edinburgh’s main shopping street, with views of the castle on one side and Princes Street Gardens on the other. This stretch embodies the city’s blend of historic charm and modern life. Moving on to Charlotte Square and the Georgian House, you get a peek into 18th-century upper-class life, adding a different layer to your understanding of Edinburgh’s past.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ending at Johnnie Walker Princes Street

The tour wraps up at the Johnnie Walker Princes Street Experience, a modern tribute to Scotland’s whisky heritage. While not a whisky tasting tour, it offers a contemporary, stylish end to your Edinburgh journey.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Experience

This 5-hour tour is designed to be quite full, with a pace that balances walking, storytelling, and sightseeing. The meeting point outside Tron Kirk is central and easy to find, with guides holding a sign for clarity. The itinerary is broken into manageable segments, with the optional break in the New Town allowing for some personal exploration or a quick snack.

Given the walking involved, comfortable shoes are essential. The tour covers uneven surfaces and cobblestones, typical of historic streets, so packing light luggage or large bags isn’t permitted.

The tour is suitable for most, including wheelchair users, thanks to accessibility features. It’s a great way to get a broad sense of the city if you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights.

Value for Money

While the cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest it’s worth the price for the depth of stories and the well-organized itinerary. You’re paying for the guidance, storytelling, and the chance to see many of Edinburgh’s key sights in one manageable package, without the hassle of navigating on your own.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

One traveler from Germany noted, “The guide was very friendly,” expressing satisfaction with the overall experience. Another from Canada appreciated the storytelling, mentioning, “Learned a lot about the city,” which indicates the guide’s ability to engage and inform.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Edinburgh’s history and landmarks, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a structured overview without missing the city’s highlights. History buffs or literary fans will enjoy the stories about Scott and Conan Doyle, while those interested in Scottish traditions will appreciate the cultural context.

It’s also a good pick for travelers who prefer a guided experience but don’t want to spend hours on foot or pay for entry to attractions—the stories and context provided make up a lot of the value.

Final Thoughts

This guided walking tour offers a balanced, engaging way to explore Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. It combines iconic sights, compelling stories, and a manageable schedule, making it perfect for those who want to soak up the city’s vibe without endless sightseeing or tiring walks.

While it doesn’t include entry to sites like Edinburgh Castle, the storytelling more than compensates, giving you a layered understanding of the city’s past and present. The tour’s accessibility and the positive reviews from past travelers suggest it’s a reliable choice, especially for those who enjoy learning on the go.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time and want an introduction that’s both informative and easy to follow, this tour would likely be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to wear comfy shoes and keep your camera ready—you’ll want to capture those colorful streets and historic views.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most travelers with mobility concerns.

Does the tour include entry to attractions like Edinburgh Castle?
No, the tour does not include entry to attractions. It’s focused on storytelling and viewing from the outside, so plan to visit attractions separately if you want to go inside.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, covering a lot of ground at a steady pace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since you’ll be outside most of the time.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the nature of the tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure.

This tour offers a detailed, friendly, and well-organized way to get a real feel for Edinburgh—perfect if you want a mix of history, stories, and sightseeing all in one go.

You can check availability for your dates here: