bus tours around edinburgh

NEWHAVEN HARBOUR

Royal yacht britannia, inside the royal yacht britannia, scottish parliament, royal botanic garden, the royal yacht britannia, palace of holyroodhouse, majestic tour bus.

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29 October 2023 to 23 March 2024

24 march - 2 november, 3 november 2024 - 5 april 2025, edinburgh bus tours operates all year round.

The full tour lasts around an hour. Please note timetables are subject to change

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Tour description

The Majestic Tour heads north of Edinburgh's city centre towards the port of Leith with highlights including Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, The Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

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You can join this tour at any bus stop, and hop-on hop-off for the duration of your ticket.

The Majestic Tour features a multi-lingual commentary in 10  languages. Headphones are provided on the bus.  

All of our tour buses have ramped access. A Class 2 mobility scooter is welcome on board if a wheelchair accessible space is available. Please note that legally wheelchair users have priority over the use of these spaces. Alternatively, Mobility Scooters can be folded and stored as luggage. Dogs, including assistance dogs, are welcome on all of our tour buses

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Hop On Hop Off: Grand 24 Ticket

Culture Vultures, Family Friendly, First Timers

Discover Edinburgh with the iconic hop on hop off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Are you ready to explore the magnificent Scottish capital? See as much of Edinburgh as possible on 3 different hop on hop off busses.

To begin with, you could start your journey at St Andrew’s Square. Alternatively, you could join the bus at any stop along the route. Either way you will enjoy all the City Sightseeing Bus Tour has to offer. Prepare yourself for an adventurous journey all around the heart of Edinburgh. Furthermore, we’ll take you to many great locations, all of which give Edinburgh its character and heritage.

Buy your ticket online today and start planning your sightseeing! 24-hour ticket for all three City Tours (Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and City Sightseeing Edinburgh)

Edinburgh Tour (green bus)

Explore Edinburgh’s city centre with one of our tour guides. Take in the spectacular buildings including Edinburgh Castle. Likewise, the Scottish Parliament and the architecture of the Georgian New Town will dazzle you along thee route.

Majestic Tour (blue bus)

The Majestic Tour heads north of Edinburgh’s city centre towards the port of Leith. In particular, enjoy highlights including Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh & The Royal Yacht Britannia. Finally, who could forget the Queens official residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

City Sightseeing Tour (red bus)

See all the main attractions with CitySightseeing Edinburgh. There’s multi-language commentary and a special Horrible Histories commentary for your children, narrated by Terry Deary himself!

Jump aboard all of our city tours with our 24-hour unlimited access ticket

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• Edinburgh Castle
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile
• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Scottish Parliament
• Dynamic Earth
• National Museum of Scotland
• Greyfriars Bobby
• Green Bus has live guide
• Red bus has audio guide in 9 languages
• 24 hour unlimited access on all 3 official Edinburgh Bus Tour hop on hop off buses.
• Entry to any of the attractions

Meeting Point

How long is my ticket valid, do children need to be accompanied, is the bus accessible, can i bring my dog, can i join the bus at any stop.

Enjoy this experience with our trusted partners: Edinburgh Bus Tours

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Explore Edinburgh

Discover Edinburgh effortlessly with Bright Bus Tours. See stunning city sights on our guided tours. View our City Tour & Britannia Tour maps HERE .

Edinburgh Castle

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Calton Hill

Victoria Street

(AKA Diagon Alley)

Scottish Parliament

The Royal Mile

Two Tours, Two Days Tickets

Adult Ticket

Family Ticket (2 Adults and 3 Kids, under 5s go free)

Concession (Over 60s & Students)

BUY TICKETS HERE

Last minute bookings? Call us

Tours around Scotland

• In Edinburgh
• Multi-day and Extended tours
• Private Trips

Price & Deals

• From 1 to 10£
• From 11£ to 30£
• From 31£ and 60£
• More than 60£

Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

Enjoy a unique experience visiting some of the most charming places in Scotland: Glencoe Valley, Ben Nevis, Great Glen and, of course, Loch Ness.

Full-Day Audio Guided Tour in Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness

Enjoy our famous tour to Loch Ness with Audio Guide. The tour includes transport + Audio Guide.

Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Inverness & The Highlands

Travel to Inverness, discover Loch Ness, fall in love with Urquhart castle and enjoy the picturesque village of Pitlochry.

3 Day tour to the Isle of Skye and the Highlands

Glencoe, Fort William, Eilean Donan castle, the remarkable Skye island, the loch Ness, Inverness, endless landscapes... this is Scotland

• 2-Hour Nighttime Ghost Tour

In this Tour of the Ghosts, Mysteries and Witches you will enter for two hours in the black history of Edinburgh.

3-Hour Walking Tour of Edinburgh

Discover Edinburgh's Old Town and its most amazing tourist landmarks.

Stirling, distillery and Saint Andrews

A journey through the symbols of Scotland: Stirling Castle, the Stuart dynasty, William Wallace, whiskey and the origin of golf.

Glasgow and the Scottish Lakes

We present to you the most unknown treasures of Scotland: Glasgow, the Lake of the Fairies and Doune Castle (Outlander).

Self-Drive Wonderfull Scotland

Take the best of Scotland in 8 days. Enjoy the most of the iconic places than this astonishing country, Scotland, wants to show you.

Self-Drive Scottish Islands

Sail with your rental car to the Scottish islands. Discover, in our longest itinerary, the authentic Scotland.

Self-Drive Castles and Whisky

For whisky and castle lovers. Visit the Speyside area and enjoy their distilleries and the castle trail.

Mary King’s Close – The underground city

Visit Edinburgh Underground City and stroll through this maze of 17th-century underground streets of Old Town.

Edinburgh Hop on Hop Off – Sightseeing tour

Explore the historic sites in and around Edinburgh on the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus

Admission + Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle

With our comprehensive guided tour, you can discover the history of Edinburgh Castle without needing to worry about missing a thing.

Scottish dinner and show

Enjoy a typical Scottish dinner in Edinburgh: history, gastronomy, performances, whiskey and haggis.

Edinburgh castle ticket

Skip the lines when you buy your ticket to Edinburgh Castle. And if you wish, take the same tour with a guide from ViajesPorEscocia.com.

Explorer Pass

Get to know the most important monuments of Scotland at the best price with the Explorer Pass card. Enjoy Scotland without restrictions!

3-Hour Walking Tour of Edinburgh – Audioguide

2-Hour Nighttime Ghost Tour – Audioguide

Scotland guidebook.

If you want to know Scotland, you cannot miss the publications of our guide. We have posts made especially for you! Plan your trip with the help of our practical information and discover the culture of a country full of history and legends. You will be able to investigate in different sections, where you will find everything from information about the weather in Scotland to the most chilling stories that happened in the Edinburgh cemetery.

Learn about the most impressive landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands in this illustrated guide, and don’t forget to explore our interactive maps, such as the one in Edinburgh restaurants. In addition, in our guide you will find complete and updated information on schedules, prices, transportation and accommodation of various cities and attractions in Scotland. We make it easy for you to make your trip unforgettable.

Guide to the Highlands – Essential locations

If you want to travel to a place where you can find peace, merge with nature and recreate yourself in times gone by, the Highlands are just what you are looking for. Here is the true symbol of Scotland, where you will find a beauty of landscapes and places that will make you fall in love at first sight. […]

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Where to stay in Edinburgh

In Edinburgh, as in almost every European capital, you have many options to stay that fit every pocket. There are more than 500 hotels, hostels, bed&breakfasts, apartments and hostels where you can stay for as long as you want. Yet Edinburgh is a busy city we recommend that you book well in advance, particularly in […]

Guide to Loch Ness – Everything about the world most famous monster and its home

To the west of the Highlands, the lake with the largest volume of water in the United Kingdom awaits you: Loch Ness. It extends along 37 km through a geological cleft (Great Glen) that includes from Fort Augustus to practically the city of Inverness. Meet this mysterious and incredible place to detail. […]

This trip gives you lots of information about Scotland (from the tour guide) and the views are spectacular. It was a very long day and out of 12 hours, we only got about 3 hours off the coach. It is a good trip if you don't mind the long coach journey.

The journey was on time and the ride was great. Everything was perfect.

Amazing trip to the highlands was our highlight of the trip to Scotland. During the trip not only my wife and I found out about the History of the Scottish Highlands and the interesting battles that took place in that area. But also learned about the different stories about how Led Zeppelin has written its famous Stairway to Heaven, about the process of Whiskey production and other interesting facts and legends from that area. We also had the opportunity to see many different Lochs (Lakes) along the way including the most famous Loch Ness :) Definitely, recommend the trip and will book this company one more time when visiting the Isle of Skye! Big thanks to our Guide Pablo who has made this trip truly unbelievable and unforgettable. A Massive Thank You to the LOCH NESS BUS Company !!! And Good Luck with making more people fall in love with this Beautiful Country! ! ! Alba gu bràth! Diana & Emil

It was a great tour, great destinations and guidance. Would definitely stop in Glencoe for longer to allow people to explore - and shorten the time in Fort Augustus, as there's absolutely nothing to do there unless you take the cruise (which is 50 mins).

The tour was an all day adventure, but even with cold and rain was still enjoyable. The sights were amazing and Lukas our tour guide was wonderful. He did a great job of sharing his knowledge of Scottish history, music, whiskey, and music. We were in a family trip and it was well worth our time.

Fantastic experience. Very well planned 12 hours tour, the staff are so friendly and helpful. Lucas knows everything about Scotland, he is a human wiki of Scotland. Highly recommended for people want to have day trip and get a feel of the Highland.

I have to give kudos to our English speaking guide on Sat 16th 2024, he was so energetic, well read and authentic. We learned so much during the day!

Amazing adventure, Pablo is a great guide. I highly recommend it!

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It was a wonderful tour with Lochness and highly recommended.

Very fun and informative tour. Aidan was a great tour guide and the information and stories he told were very interesting. Very much enjoyed all the stops and overall had a great time.

The tour was fabulous we absolutely loved it, our driver/guide Steve B made the tour, he was knowledgable, funny & kept everyone interested. Would highly recommend.

I really enjoyed the tour! Aidan was fun and helpful, he made the bus journey interesting with historical information and good music. 12 hours went by super fast!

Aidan was very thorough and knowledgeable inserting bit and pieces of lore and fun facts on the tour along with the choice of route. The places visited were amazing with enough time to explore a bit on our own and have a feel for the places. Would definitely recommend him if you are doing the tour in English

Our English guide Shahab to the lochness was fantastic. Loved his story telling. 5 star tour and guide. Highly recommened

Super visite tres instructive ! Mention speciale a notre guide Adan

The best tours in Scotland

Discover scotland.

Explore the home of the mysterious Loch Ness monster and dazzle yourself with the most precious treasures of the Highlands: the Glencoe Valley, the Loch Ness, the isle of Skye or Inverness. Follow in the footsteps of the highlanders, William Wallace or Outlander.

Tours tailored for you

Tours with departure and arrival on the same day from Edinburgh and tours throughout Scotland. More than 23 different routes that will take you to know places like Loch Ness, the Highlands, Doune Castle, Stirling, Inverness and much more.

Expert guides guaranteed

Our guides will help you discover Edinburgh with our city tours. Learn its history, delve into the magic of Harry Potter, challenge the supernatural with the tour of ghosts and witches or sign up for our walk through the old city of Edinburgh.

Enjoy your holidays

Multi-day circuits with accommodation included. Choose our 3-day tour where you can enjoy the magic of the Isle of Skye and a great panoramic view of this country of legend.

Authentic places

Discover the best kept jewels in Scotland. Meet Glasgow, Fairy Lake and Outlander Castle. Visit the Glencoe Valley, Fort William and Eilean Donan Castle. Enjoy the beauty of the Scottish islands: Skye, Iona and Mull.

History and culture

A journey through the symbols of Scotland: Stirling Castle, the Stuart, William Wallace, the best whiskey and the origin of golf. Excursions that will take you to the corners with more charm and history. You choose among all these options!

• Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands
• 3 Day tour to the Isle of Skye
• Work with us
• How to use the Audioguide APP
• How to book with us

Keep you updated about Scotland

LochNessBus.com reviews in Tripadvisor

15 Best Tours in Edinburgh [2024]

Boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most iconic castles on earth, elegant Georgian architecture and much more, the Scottish capital surely belongs on everyone’s bucket list. If you want to discover this enchanting city, then booking the best tours in Edinburgh is an easy and enjoyable way to do exactly that. 

This guide to the best Edinburgh tours is here to help you choose which tours you should take. From foodie or whisky tasting experiences to spooky, Harry Potter and hop-on hop-off tours, there really is so much scope in this stunning city. 

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Fast-Track Guided Tour in English

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 1.5 hours

Booking an Edinburgh castle tour can really help you make the most of visiting this famous location. I t also includes skip-the-line entry to save you precious time . 

The experience commences with a walk up the Royal Mile, before taking your guided tour of the famous fortress. This includes explanations of the castle dungeons, the iconic one o’clock gun salute and the Argyle Battery. 

→ Click here to check prices and availability

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐| Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If the best underground tour in Edinburgh is what you want to find, check out this spooky tour of the city’s ancient underground vaults. It’s said that ghosts lurk here beneath the Old Town, and during the one hour tour your guide will regale you with gory tales about witchcraft and historic murders in the area.

Exploring the South Bridge vaults puts an entirely new spin on things, so don’t miss this if you want to see a different side to this elegant city!

Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

Another of the more quirky Edinburgh tours is this Dark Side walking tour. Expect to hear all about Burke and Hare, the city’s most notorious murderers, as well as the trials and even burnings that witches once endured. The practices of grave robbing and body snatching, plus stories of real life vampires and cannibals, are also discussed.

Sites visited during the tour include narrow, twisting alleyways, Calton Hill, the Old Calton Burial Ground, one of Edinburgh’s chilling cemeteries or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery. The tour finishes at a local pub near the Royal Mile where you can purchase a beverage to steady your nerves!

Edinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If all that after-dark activity sounds a little too gruesome for your tastes, then the best ghost tour in Edinburgh to book might be a more light-hearted comedy horror trip. Your conductor will share tales of ghosts, murder, grave robbings and victims of the plague as you ride around town.

The tour takes you through both the ancient Old Town and the Georgian New Town. It all takes place aboard a restored and black-painted vintage double decker bus. This was the sole survivor of the Necropolis Bus Company fleet, following a rather mysterious 1967 fire. This is a fun, light-hearted tour and a perfect option if you’re travelling with teenagers!

Edinburgh: Old Town History and Tales Walking Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This highly rated city tour of Edinburgh allows you to truly explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the safe hands of your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll stroll along the twisting streets of the historic Old Town.

Expect to be enjoyably entertained throughout this tour, as your guide shares all the stories you’ll want to hear about the Scottish capital. Sights to see include the old pubs of Grassmarket, places that inspired J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, St. Giles Cathedral and more. 

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 2 hours

Should you be seeking fun Edinburgh tours for the whole family, this Harry Potter locations tour could be spot-on. As well as sites associated with the books and movies about the boy wizard, you’ll also visit key Edinburgh landmarks such as Princes Street, the Old Town and the castle.

J. K. Rowling wrote much of the books in Edinburgh, and during the tour you’ll see sights that inspired her works. These include the Castlehill graveyard that doubles as Voldemort’s final resting place, and winding lanes that Diagon Alley was based on. 

Edinburgh: JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 4.25 hours

Another contender as best walking tour in Edinburgh for a Harry Potter fan is this magical guided tour with Sam. Discover the many Edinburgh locations that inspired JK Rowling. You’ll also get the chance to find out which Hogwarts house you’d be placed in. As well as whether you’re a muggle, a squib or a pure-blood witch or wizard. 

It’s worth noting that this is a long tour lasting over 4 hours so if you’re short on time or prefer a shorter walking tour, check out the other Harry Potter tour listed above.

Edinburgh: Comedy Walking Tour with Professional Comedian

Rating: 4.9⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This walking tour led by a professional comedian has to be among the most entertaining tours in Edinburgh. Setting out from the Monkey Barrel Comedy Club in the Old Town, you’ll learn all sorts of fun local facts and trivia during the two hour walk.

Expect some swearing, adult humour and a strong Scottish accent from your guide, which is why this tour is intended for over-16s only. If you want to know why the gun salute takes place every day at one o’clock or other city facts, this could be your chance to find out. This recent review says it all:

“BEST SIGHTSEEING TOUR EVER! Seriously guys, if you’re thinking about booking any of the walking tours through Edinburgh, THIS ONE is the one to go for! Daniel is not only incredibly funny, but also really knows his Scottish History!”

Edinburgh: 24-Hour Family-Friendly Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Validity: 1 day

As with many cities across the world, some of the best tours of Edinburgh are jump-on, jump-off bus tours where you can travel when you please. This one is especially family friendly, and tickets are valid for 24 hours. 

With stunning city views throughout, this tour allows you to see places like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, the New Town, Castle Rock and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. You can hop off whenever you like to explore further, before boarding another bus to take you somewhere else. 

Edinburgh: Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Validity: 2 days

Royal Edinburgh is the focus for this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Tickets include three fast-track entrance tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle as well as flexible transport for up to 48 hours.

To simplify things even further, your pass includes use of buses operated by three different hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies. These are Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and Edinburgh City Sightseeing.

Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

You simply cannot come to Edinburgh as an adult without sampling the famous Scottish tipple! This whisky tasting and tour allows you to do exactly that. Your guide will also teach you about the five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Comprising close to 3,500 bottles, one of the largest whisky collections on the planet also forms part of this tour. Single malt and blended whisky tastings are also included, and you’ll also get a crystal tasting glass to keep as a souvenir. 

Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling

Another option for whisky lovers! If you’re looking for something to do in Edinburgh during the evening, how about this whisky tasting experience? It includes local history and folklore tales, so you can learn about the city while sipping for single malts.

The tour takes place on the atmospheric Royal Mile, after meeting your guide at the aptly-named Hot Toddy. With the whole of the first floor reserved for your group, there’s plenty of space to stretch out in while learning about Scottish whisky production. You’ll also sample four distinctive single malts from different distilling regions of Scotland. You can also choose to do the tour with no drinks included.

Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 3 hours

Whether you’re searching for unusual tours in Edinburgh because you’re a second-time visitor or because you really like to get under the skin of a city, this secret food tour can tick that box. Lasting for three hours, you’ll make half a dozen stops to sample Scottish delicacies.

Food and drinks to taste during the tour include haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed swede and potatoes), local cheeses, scones with butter and jam, gin and of course single malt whisky. The secret dish might also tickle your tastebuds. 

Edinburgh: Silent Disco Adventure Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If you want to experience Edinburgh in a truly unique way, then surely this Silent Disco tour is unbeatable! It’s not for shy and retiring types, though, as you’ll need to sing and dance your way through the city streets.

Moving through the historic Scottish capital to hits from several decades, you’ll pass lots of famous landmarks en route. It’s a different way to see the city, that’s for certain. 

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1.5 hours

A tour of Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium also provides visitors with something different to do while visiting the city. During the 90 minute experience you’ll discover how chocolate is produced, from South American cacao plantations to the finished bars available from Scottish chocolate makers.

You can even make your own chocolates, including the flavours of your choice, as part of the tour. Sampling Scottish and global chocolates is also included, with options ranging from chilli to whisky. I took my daughter here for something a little quirky to do together and we had such a fantastic time!

Whether you prefer the idea of dancing and singing your way through the streets, laughing until your sides split or visiting a Chocolatarium, we hope you’ve enjoyed discovering 15 of the finest Edinburgh city tours!

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10 Cheap Day Trips From Edinburgh By Bus

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

Want to escape the city while someone else does the driving? This guide to day trips from Edinburgh by bus takes you to the countryside, historical sites, the seaside and to lively cities.

Why travel by bus? Buses from Edinburgh tend to be more affordable than trains, Edinburgh Bus Station is very central, so easily accessed; Scotland’s buses are often more reliable than the trains and bus travel can be more environmentally friendly than car travel.

Some of the Scotland bus companies offer day saver tickets, multi-trip offers and ‘kids go free’ packages. You can find out more about these companies and Edinburgh Bus Station in general here .

Journey tickets can be bought online, over the phone or at the station itself. Ideally, longer and more popular journeys should be reserved in advance to guarantee a seat and the lowest prices.

Below, we outline day trips from Edinburgh, the highlights, how long the bus journey takes and approximately how much the trip costs.

Best Day Trips From Edinburgh By Bus

1. north berwick (east).

Home to the five-star Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick is a quaint coastal town in the district of East Lothian, less than ninety minutes from Edinburgh.

Things to do in North Berwick include seeing the world’s largest colony of northern gannets, which breed here in the backdrop of the striking Firth of Forth.

Most locals head to North Berwick to spend a day at the beach.

Nearby historic hotspots include two castles, Tantallon and Dirleton, which can be reached by train (20 minutes) from North Berwick.

North Berwick Highlights

• Sunbathe and check out the cute coloured beach huts
• Climb the North Berwick Law
• Boat tour to Bass Rock
• Enjoy a Steampunk Coffee in the trendy cafe
• Visit Tantallon Castle

If it’s a sunny day, there will always be crowds in North Berwick, so arrive early and pack your day bag to avoid disappointment.

• Edinburgh to North Berwick By Bus: 1.5 hours

2. The Award-Winning Rosslyn Chapel (South)

The 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel is located in a small village called Roslin. Day-trippers can reach Roslin by bus in around an hour.

Although founded in 1446, the Chapel made people’s travel bucket lists when it was featured in the book and movie The Davinci Code, starring Tom Hanks.

You can experience what the Chapel looks like using this 360 virtual tour of the premises.

Highlights of Roslin

• Rosslyn Chapel
• Breakfast at Dolly’s Tea Room
• Visit Rosslyn Chapel, grab a coffee in the cafe
• Wander around Roslin Glen, which takes around 2 hours
• See Rosslyn Castle during the Glen walk

A trip to Roslin gives you the chance to see a historically important building in Scotland as well as an easy hike among nature. Winning combo.

Since it takes less than an hour, Roslin is one of the easiest half-day trips from Edinburgh.

• Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel By Bus: 1 hour

Rosyln Chapel is also a popular coach day tour from Edinburgh .

3. Melrose (South)

The birthplace of the Rugby Sevens, the picturesque town of Melrose, is located near the triple peaks of Eildon Hills.

The ruins of Melrose Abbey are of significant importance as it is said the heart of Robert the Bruce rests here.

In the year AD 79, Romans built a massive fort by the name of Trimontium, or Palace of Three Hills on the top of Eildon Hill North.

Attractions in Melrose

• Visit Melrose Abbey
• Hike Eildon Hill – I did this with a group, a relatively easy day hike
• Check out the events at the Georgian townhouse Harmony House

If you are a hiker or into history, Melrose is one of the best day trips near Edinburgh for you.

• Edinburgh to Melrose By Bus: 2.35 hours

4. Glasgow (West)

Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, is a lively city with extensive shopping opportunities, lots of green space, even more pubs and an impressive street art trail.

Most of Glasgow’s museums and galleries are free.

You can fill up your day visiting the Glasgow Museum of Modern Art (which is housed in the slaver and tobacco/sugar merchant William Cunninghame’s mansion), The Lighthouse (great views from the top floor), the Kelvingrove Museum (1 pm organ show) and Riverside Museum of Transport.

Glasgow Highlights

• Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis for views
• West Brewery for food and craft beer
• People’s Palace and Glasgow Green
• GOMA and Merchant City street art murals
• Lunch in Merchant City/Trongate
• Shopping on Style Mile
• Lighthouse Museum (exhibitions and views)
• A pub crawl around Ashton Lane in the West End
• Kelvingrove Museum and Park
• Finnieston for food and drinks
• Riverside Museum and Clydeside Distillery

While locals mostly take the train to get between Edinburgh and Glasgow, the bus is a cheaper alternative. As you can see from the above highlights, Glasgow really needs more than one day!

• Edinburgh to Glasgow By Bus: 1.35 hours

5. Stirling (Central)

Stirling is a small city in the Central Belt of Scotland.

It is most known for its historic landmarks, 12th-century Stirling Castle, Stirling Bridge and Wallace Monument.

Stirling Castle takes around 2-4 hours to explore. While it is easier to get to Stirling’s attractions by car, there is public transport to Stirling Bridge and Wallace Monument.

Stirling Highlights

• 12th-century Stirling Castle on Castle Hill
• 360 views from Wallace Monument

While most locals would take the train to Stirling from Edinburgh, the bus is an alternative option.

• Edinburgh to Stirling By Bus: 1.5-2.5 hours

6. Kinross (East)

Lying 13 miles south of Perth, the quaint town of Kinross is barely an hour’s bus ride from Edinburgh.

With Lochmond Hills looming from above and the waters of Loch Leven washing its shores, Kinross is a beautiful place to spend the day.

The fate of two notable personalities, Macbeth and Mary Queen of Scots, is said to be linked with Kinross.

Kinross Highlights

• Rent a bike or walk around Loch Leven
• Afternoon tea at Loch Leven Larder

A perfect day trip during spring, summer or autumn.

• Edinburgh to Kinross By Bus: 1 hour

7. Dunfermline, Fife (East)

Visit the Ancient Capital of Fife, Dunfermline, by taking a bus ride over the Forth Road Bridge.

As you cross, look right for the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Scottish icon, the Forth Bridge, and left for the Queensferry Crossing.

In Dunfermline, visit the Heritage Quarter to explore Dunfermline Abbey and the birthplace of Andrew Carnegie.

Enjoy walking around Pittencrieff Park and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive town peacocks.

Outlander fans might want to hop on a local bus to Culross to see the famous filming locations at Culross Palace and Mercat Cross.

Dunfermline Highlights

• The final resting place of Robert the Bruce – Dunfermline Abbey and Church
• Pittencrieff Park, aka The Glen
• Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Museum for West Fife history and culture
• Andrew Carnegie’s Museum – where the famous Scot was born
• Live music and drinks at Dunfermline Fife Station Creative

Dunfermline is just one stop in the Kingdom of Fife worth visiting. If you have more time, consider the beach towns of Aberdour and Burntisland, which can be reached by bus or train.

• Edinburgh to Dunfermline By Bus: 1 hour

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8. St Andrews (East)

Did you know Prince Will and Kate met while studying at the University of St Andrews?

St Andrews is also famous among golfers as it is home to the oldest golf course in Scotland.

Cute streets, a huge beach with watersports, Botanics and the best ice cream in Fife, do you need any other reason to visit?

St Andrews Highlights

• St Andrews Cathedral by the sea
• Kayaking, with wet suits
• Beautiful Botanical Gardens
• Jannettas Gelato always lines for miles!

St Andrews is a popular day trip; expect lots of crowds for organised tours during the summer months.

• Edinburgh to St Andrews By Bus: 2 hours

9. Dundee (East)

Located in North East Scotland, the industrial town of Dundee is a two-hour ride out of Edinburgh.

Standing on the bank of Firth of Tay, visitors will see the RRS Discovery, V&A Design Museum and the Verdant Jute Mill.

Dundee is home to many of Scotland’s art students, so there are many galleries for you to explore. There’s even a speakeasy bar if you can find it.

Dundee Highlights

• V&A Dundee
• RSS Discovery
• McManus Art Gallery
• Open/Close art trail

Dundee is one of Scotland’s lesser-known cities so you can experience what the east coast city life has to offer without elbowing through crowds.

• Edinburgh to Dundee By Bus: 2.5-3 hours

10. Pitlochry (North)

The small town of Pitlochry lies nestled in the River Tummel valley along the major route connecting the Lowlands with the Highlands.

A pleasant bus journey from Edinburgh brings visitors to this Victorian-era town, which has retained its character until today.

Pitlochry Highlights

• Pitlochry Dam and Visitors Centre
• Pitlochry Festival Theatre
• Pitlochry nature walks
• Hettie’s Tearoom for a hot drink and cakes

Pitlochry is one of the best places to visit in autumn. While the train is faster, the bus is much more affordable, which is ideal if you are on a budget.

• Edinburgh to Pitlochry By Bus: 2.5-3 hours

Highlands Bus Tours

Did you know that you can visit the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh ?

1-4 day tours leave Scotland’s capital and take you through the stunning Glen Coe scenery, around Outlander locations, next to the Harry Potter train viaduct and to the country’s battlefields.

Final Words

While there are many things to do in Edinburgh, whether you are a local or visitor, it is well worth getting out of the city to explore the towns and cities less than three hours away from the capital.

With these Edinburgh day trips by bus, you can save money with multi-journey tickets and booking in advance. If saving money is your thing, check out our free things to do in Edinburgh guide .

You may also like | Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train

Our Edinburgh Tours Guides

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• Gin Tours in Edinburgh
• Food Tours in Edinburgh
• Walking Tours of Edinburgh
• Day Tours From Edinburgh
• Highland Tours From Edinburgh
• Whisky Tours From Edinburgh
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Owner of Everything Edinburgh, the friendly resource for visitors and locals. Gemma adores Edinburgh's cafes, pub crawls, live gigs, and city tours. She still mourns the death of Espionage nightclub.

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Edinburgh Bus Tours launch new service connecting all major city attractions

Edinburgh Bus Tours launched its brand-new Regal Tour over the weekend.

Joining the existing live guide-led Edinburgh Tour, and CitySightseeing Edinburgh Tour on March 24, the Regal Tour brings to life the city’s royal connections, taking in key attractions such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse , The Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

The tour also takes in the bustling communities of Leith and Newhaven, where visitors can hop off to explore the independent shops, bars and restaurants lining Leith Shore and Newhaven Harbour.

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A multilingual audio commentary will also highlight all the key sights across the city.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Edinburgh Bus Tours, said: “We’re delighted to welcome visitors on board our new Regal Tour, which adds another dimension to our already fantastic five- star tour portfolio. We hope visitors to the city will take advantage of our ‘hop-on-hop-off’ tours and take the opportunity to explore our stunning capital city from the top deck. All of our tickets include excellent added value offers from key partners across the capital.

“The launch of the Regal Tour marks an exciting moment in our long history in the city of Edinburgh and we look forward to welcoming visitors on board.

“With Edinburgh Bus Tours, visitors can be confident of quality, reliability and value for money”.

Neil Christison, Regional Director at VisitScotland, said: “It’s great to see Edinburgh Bus Tours investing in the visitor experience in the city and expanding their exceptional tour offering. Edinburgh is steeped in the history of Scotland’s monarchs, and recent events have shown there remains a keen fascination from visitors to our royal connections. Bus tours are a fantastic way to get around Edinburgh and help encourage visitors to explore beyond the city centre and into the bustling communities of Leith and Newhaven.”

Edinburgh Bus Tours’ visitors can enjoy exclusive discounts and offers to other city attractions, such as Lind and Lime Gin Distillery, Johnnie Walker Princes Street, and the Real Mary King’s Close. Customers can also buy tickets for the following attractions directly from its ticket sellers and drivers:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Edinburgh Zoo
• Edinburgh Dungeon
• Dynamic Earth

How to get around Edinburgh: best ways to see the tourist sites

Compared to other cities in the UK, and mostly I mean south of the border in England, Edinburgh is actually quite small. So that means it’s really easy to get around and see all that there is to see. If you love leisurely exploring, wandering round old streets and finding hidden gems everywhere, you’ll love Edinburgh!

While I almost always walk or choose budget options when we’ve visited Edinburgh over the years we have been known to use some of the more tourist orientated alternatives too!

Whether you only have 1 day in Edinburgh or can spare some more days, figuring out how to get around is key to making the most of your time here. Read on for our guide for how to get around Edinburgh, especially as a tourist.

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m a UK travel expert – while I grew up in Scotland, as an adult I now return to visit almost every year – there’s so much to see! Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about your next trip and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Table of Contents

Do you need a car to get around edinburgh.

No. In fact, in Edinburgh having a car could be more of a problem than not having one. The city is small and tourist sites are generally walkable. Any further out attractions can be reached by bus, tram, taxi or tour bus.

Parking can be an issue in the centre of the city so if you’re planning to bring or rent a car be aware of where you can park nearby your accommodation so you don’t incur parking tickets and fines.

If you’re hiring a car and looking to explore more of Scotland it’s probably advisable to pick up your rental car after your Edinburgh portion if you can! It’s also easy to get around Scotland without a car too if needed.

How to get around Edinburgh city

So we’ve established that having a car is not necessary to get around the city of Edinburgh, so how is best to get around?

I’ve written this post with a tourist in mind visiting the city and aiming to visit some of the main attractions and landmarks in Edinburgh .

Hop on Hop off Bus

Like many popular cities around the world there are hop on hop off buses through the city of Edinburgh. You either love them, hate them or see them as a convenience for your day! We used one a while ago on a family trip in Edinburgh and it helped with tired little legs so I definitely see the plus points!

Regular buses (see below) are a lot cheaper but they come with some added stress of finding your way to your destination, getting on the right one and figuring out tickets. Some people don’t want that hassle, especially if they are just going to the tourist sites anyway or if they are in a group or with kids.

The advantage of the hop on hop off buses are that you can use them throughout the day as you need. If your feet are tired and you don’t want to walk – take the bus. If you’re short on time and want to get a glimpse of Edinburgh – sit on the bus and let it guide you round.

If you’re lucky to be there on a dry day there’s often an open top which will allow for pictures – you’ll get good views of the castle and many other places as it takes you round the city.

Hop on Hop off Bus:

• 24 hour hop on hop off bus ticket
• Hop on Hop off bus + Royal Attractions ticket (inc Edinburgh Castle)

Other tour buses (not hop on hop off – just a tour round the city)

• Vintage Bus Tour with Afternoon tea
• Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Edinburgh is quite a walkable city so you might feel like you don’t need to get on any vehicles to enjoy it.

The Old and New Towns are small and can be discovered on foot really well. The whole place invites you to explore down small streets and alleyways where cars can’t go anyway!

Be aware that the streets in the old town are cobbled and there are hills – wear comfortable shoes when wandering!

A walking tour in some areas of the city are a good way to get local knowledge and explore the city without feeling like you’ve stormed around quickly! They can be quite inexpensive as well.

Walking tours to consider:

Old Town History and Tales

Harry Potter walking tour

A Taxi tour

An interesting way to get around and see the sights while having your own space is a taxi tour.

You might be considering this due to mobility issues, disabilities or because you value your own space (understandable after Covid). The taxi will take you all around the city, exploring the best sites and giving you a real local’s insider knowledge too.

These are expensive compared to other options but for the exclusive attention you get it can be well worth it!

Check out this company who does tours of the city.

Of course, you could simply take taxis around the city if you needed one. There are plenty of them around that you can flag down or if you want to book one in advance try Central Taxis .

Public Transport

If you need to go further afield, perhaps to the Zoo, the Botanical Gardens or Leith then you might want to just use public transport. It’s a lot cheaper than the tourist buses and you’ll get a taste of the local life too! If you’re traveling on a budget this one is for you.

Bus – Lothian Buses

The bus network in Edinburgh is really good and you can get all around the city. The buses are modern and have helpful displays that update and tell you which stop it is – perfect for keeping and eye on where you are.

Tickets can be bought on the app, by tapping a contactless card or on the bus itself. The app is helpful for navigating where you are in the city as well.

You can buy single tickets (£1.80 in 2023) or you can buy a day ticket (£4.50). The day ticket includes the tram as well but is confined to the city zone. You can buy a more expensive one if you’re traveling outside the city zone, for example to the airport.

See timetables, ticket options and download the app here .

Tram – Edinburgh Trams

The tram is a relatively new addition to the Edinburgh city transport options. There’s only one line so it’s limited in where you can go with it but it’s good to go to Murrayfield (The Scotland Rugby stadium) if you want to watch an event there.

The tram also takes you direct to the airport if you need to get there. It’s outside the city zone so attracts a slightly higher price but it’s a simple way to get there.

See more information here .

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🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Edinburgh Travel FAQ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Do I need insurance for traveling to Edinburgh?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting Edinburgh?

MAYBE – if you’re staying in the city then you don’t need a car at all. YES – If you’re wanting to explore further afield in Scotland then a car is worthwhile.

I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices in Edinburgh

How to book accommodation in Edinburgh?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com (and my favorite Edinburgh Hotel which is the APEX Grassmarket – hint: castle views!)

For apartments check out VRBO

Will my phone work in Edinburgh?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in the UK I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What to pack for Edinburgh

Keep yourself dry and comfortable is my motto for Edinburgh travel! A rain jacket and comfy shoes are a must.

See my post about what to pack for Edinburgh

Do I need midge spray for Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, as a city, doesn’t suffer from midges. You might see them if you travel to the west coast or lochs in the summer months. Check out my guide to midges and how to miss them in Scotland .

What’s the best guidebook for Edinburgh?

I really like the Lonely Planet Pocket Guides

Where to get flights for Edinburgh

Expedia is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to Edinburgh and Scotland.

Do I need a visa for Scotland?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting Scotland as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

Kirsty Bartholomew

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9 of the Best Whisky Tours from Edinburgh 2024

Have you been wondering about the best whisky tours from edinburgh i’ve got you covered.

I’ve been living in Europe for a few years now and I can’t help but be drawn to Scotland’s whisky culture. From touring the distilleries to learning about the fascinating history that makes Scotch whisky so unique, nothing beats spending time in Edinburgh. After talking with so many fellow travelers looking to take a whisky tour from Edinburgh, I started to realize that there is simply too much choice out there. With all of these different operators offering tours, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That’s why I’m here to help! Having spent a lot of time researching and taking Whisky Tours from Edinburgh, I’m confident that I can offer valuable advice on which tours are worth your time and money. So if you’re looking for an amazing whisky experience – look no further! Through this article you’ll find everything you need to choose the perfect whisky tour from Edinburgh, whether it’s a single malt tasting or a distillery tour with friends. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Whisky Tours from Edinburgh

Introduction To Whisky

• Old Town Edinburgh
• Four drams of whisky Included

Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour

• Tour two distilleries
• Small group tour

Speyside Whisky Tour From Edinburgh

• Entry – 5 Distilleries
• Accomodation included

9 of the Best Whisky Tours from Edinburgh

1. 90-minute introduction to whisky in the old town of edinburgh.

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 1 hour 30 minutes| ✅ Book it!

Scotland is known for its long history of whisky, and if you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, going on a Whisky tasting tour is a must-try. In this 90-minute introduction to Whisky tour, you will be visiting an underground space in the Old Town of Edinburgh where you will be tasting four drams of Whisky. 

The whiskeys included in this tour come from different regional distilleries. During the tour, you will also walk through Edinburgh streets to learn how these drinks are made. 

“Really enjoyed the chance to sample whiskies I’ve never tried before. Our tasting guide was very knowledgeable about all the whiskies and what differentiated each from the rest. I’ve been a Scotch lover for over 50 years, and still learned a few new things about scotch and found a couple of new labels to add to my collection.” -Dennis_M

This is just one among the many whisky-tasting Edinburgh offers. But what makes this an ideal tour is that it gives a quick introduction to the world of whisky, including its creation process and how Scotch whisky is one of the finest in the world. 

When you arrive at the underground space where the tasting tour will take place, you will be welcomed by your guide and a whisky expert who will let you taste four different whiskies. These 4 drams of Whisky run on different levels, each offering a different experience. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): Time Varies at the Code Pod – The Court (Parliament Square Edinburgh)
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Includes: Alcoholic Beverages, Experienced Local Guide

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. Discover Malt Whisky Day Tour From Edinburgh Including Admissions

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5   | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 hours  | ✅ Book it!

Enjoy a day in Scottland as you treat yourself to a full-day Whisky tasting tour from Edinburgh. This 9-hour Malt Whisky Day tour will take you to the Scottish lowlands, where the whisky-producing region is. You will visit known distilleries such as the Glengoyne Distillery and Deanston Distillery. 

At these distilleries, you will enjoy informative tasting sessions and tours. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Scottish whisky production while admiring Loch Lomond’s beauty. 

This small group tour lets you have a more personalised experience and be away from the crowd. 

“We wanted to get out of the city a little and this was perfect! We got some tidbits of the area history, 2 Distilleries and a great stop at Oak Tree Inn for a beautiful lunch. Andrew was an amazing host, answering all our questions. Thank you!” -Kayte_E

Among the many Malt Whisky Day Tours from Edinburgh, this tour focuses on two famous distilleries in the Scottish lowlands. After meeting your guide in Edinburgh city centre, you will travel west. During the ride, your guide will also share information about Scotland’s most famous drink. 

The first stop of this tour will be at Glengoyne Distillery in Dumgoyne. This distillery is known for its distillation process, as it is one of the slowest in the world. They believe that this makes the art of whisky-making better. Here, you’ll tour their grounds and learn about their complex production process from the expert.

The next stop will be at the Trossachs National Park, where you’ll see scenic forest-covered terrain and dramatic mountains. This is near Loch Lomond, where a hearty pub is located (you can get lunch here at your own expense). 

Afterwards, you will head to Deanston Distillery, a converted cotton mill in River Teith. This is the most environmentally friendly distillery in Scotland. Here, you can enjoy two types of single malt whiskies and have fun discovering the hints of different flavours. 

• Start Time (and location): 9:30 AM at Edinburgh Bus Station 
• Duration: 9 hours
• Includes:  Admission fees – Tour and Whisky tastings at Glengoyne and Deanston Distilleries included, Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

3. 3-Day Speyside Whisky Tour From Edinburgh Including Admissions

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 days | ✅ Book it!

Get to be part of the ultimate whisky experience from Edinburgh when you join this 3-day Speyside Whisky Tour. This whisky tour, in particular, lets you experience the best of Scotland’s central whisky-producing region while you visit four renowned distilleries. 

As you wind through the scenic Cairngorm National Park, your small group tour will visit Londores Abbey, Dalwhinne and Cardhu Distillery. You will learn about their unique process of creating Scotch whine at each distillery and taste their own version of malt whisky. 

Since you will be travelling and going on distillery tours from Edinburgh for three days, accommodation in the quaint village of Grantown-on-Spey is already included in the tour. 

“The tour was everything I hoped it would be! Dan Young, our guide, was excellent – knowledgeable alike on the history of Scotland as on the history of Scotch. Well-spoken, and great stories. Wonderful driving scenery; and excellently-chosen distilleries for the stops – each unique in its offerings of tours, whisky-making philosophy and lore. Highly recommended!”-Ramuh_H

This 3-day adventure begins in Edinburgh, where you will meet your guide and a small group of whiskey lovers. After setting off in the morning, you will head to Speyside, Scotland, home to more than 40 distilleries. 

Along the way, you can enjoy learning about single malt whisky and Scotland from your tour guide. There will also be scenic roads before you reach your first stop of the day – Lindores Abbey Distillery.

The tour and tasting in this distillery are already included in the tour, so all you have to do here is enjoy tasting a sample of a dram while learning about the drink’s history.

The next stop of the day is at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, where you can sample the delights of the Royal Lochnagar Distillery. On your second day, you will explore Speyside, including a visit to Glen Moray Distillery, Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre and Cardhu Distillery. 

The last day of this 3-day  distillery tour from Edinburgh features a visit to Dalwhinnie Distillery and Cairngorms National Park, the tour’s previous stop. Here, you can have your lunch and get up close to nature while you walk in a fantastic woodland amidst the tallest trees in Britain. 

• Start Time (and location): 8:45 AM at Edinburgh Bus Station 
• Duration: 3 days 
• Includes:  Admission Fees: Includes entry to 5 Distilleries, two nights overnight accommodation, breakfast, and private facilities. Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

4. Holyrood Distillery Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5   | ⏳ LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅ Book it!

If you’re short on time and still want to experience Scotland’s distillery tours, this Holyrood Distillery tour is something you can consider. Holyrood Distillery is well-known in Scotland and is even an award-winning distillery and Scottish Attraction.

You can enjoy a guided flavour-forward experience here as you learn how gin and whiskey are made. Whether it may be through the traditional or innovative method, Holyrood Distillery will show you how their craft has made them one of the best distilleries in Scotland. 

“Marcos gave a thoughtful and engaging presentation on the young distillery’s approach. Along the way we got multiple tasty samples. Only wish we could get their Funky gin in the US!”-Neil_B

This Holyrood Distillery Tour only lasts for an hour, so it’s great for those who are short in time but want to go on a whiskey-tasting trip from Edinburgh. This tour already includes a guided experiential tour in a three-floored gin and whisky distillery and a tasting bar experience at the end of the tour. 

You will also have the chance to look around the distillery’s shop and have the option to get your bottle of gin or whiskey to enjoy back home. 

• Start Time (and location): Time varies at Holyrood Distillery 
• Duration: 1 hour
• Includes:  Alcoholic Beverages

5. Whisky And Folklore In Edinburgh Including Four Single Malt Scotch Whiskies

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!

Discover a bespoke whiskey lounge built by Scottish locals just for tourists to experience what it’s like to be part of an intimate whisky-tasting event in Edinburgh.

During this Single scotch whisky experience, you will be sampling four single malt whiskies from four different whisky-producing regions of Scotland while seated in the comfort of a lounge. 

Aside from the whisky tasting, your hosts will also make the experience more engaging by sharing the stories and secrets of Scotch whisky-making.

Plus, this whisky and folklore tour highlights the chance to taste the difference between Scottish highland and lowland whisky with your taste buds and the help of an expert guide. 

“We had a wonderful time during this whisky tasting and folklore. Our guide, Ben, was fabulous. He was funny, knowledgeable about whisky and truly brought the folklore to life through his talented story telling. Definitely recommend this tour if you are in Edinburgh!!!” – Batsheva_K 

Before heading to the bespoke whiskey lounge, you will first have a short walk through the city before entering the bar reserved just for your group. Once you enter the bespoke lounge, you will have the place all to your own, which lets you experience an intimate whiskey tasting trip. 

During the duration of the tour, you will be learning from an expert all about Scottland’s whiskey while also trying four outstanding Single Malt Scotch from the major whisky-producing regions of the country. 

The whiskies you try will range from the relatively delicate and subtle flavours from the lowlands to Islay’s robust and bold tastes. The highlight of this tour includes the storytelling tradition that centres around the idea of people coming together while enjoying good whisky in a cosy place. 

• Start Time (and location): Time varies at Hot Toddy 
• Duration: 2 hours
• Includes: Expert guide, whisky enthusiast and storyteller, Drink alternatives are available upon request for those who do not drink whisky, Alcoholic Beverages  

6. The Scotch Whisky Experience Guided Whisky Tour – An Introduction To Whisky

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 50 minutes | ✅ Book it!

For a comprehensive introduction to Whisky in Scotland, this guided whisky walking tour in Edinburgh is an ideal choice if you first want to get an overview of Scotland’s national drink. Compared to the other whisky tours from Edinburgh, this tour highlights lessons and sharing whisky information. 

Learn about how Scotland’s regions come to create the Scottish drink and how the weather affects the flavour of your glasses.

During a guided tasting session, you will also view one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections inside the Scotch Whisky Experience. This is a family-friendly experience, as 18-year-olds and under are still welcome to join.

“I enjoy this tour. It covered a lot of information about whiskey that I didn’t know. I loved the interactive experience with the scratch and sniff cards to find which type of whiskey I would prefer. They did a very good job putting together a informative experience tour.”-Kathleen_E

This tour will take place at the Scotch Whisky Experience beside Edinburgh Castle. Inside the area, you will be guided through and introduced to the world of whiskey. 

A guide will share information and stories about the process of making and the history of Whiskey while you tour around to view an extensive collection of Whiskey in the area. Throughout the tour, you can also learn about the five whisky-producing regions and secrets of single-malt Scotch production. 

This tour also includes a tasting of Scotch whisky (or non-alcoholic beverages for non-drinkers) at the end of the tour. No worries because audio guides of at least 20 languages are available, and at the end, you will be given a gift of a crystal whisky-tasting glass as your souvenir. 

• Start Time (and location): Time varies at The Scotch Whisky Experience
• Duration: 50 minutes 
• Includes: Dram of Scotch whisky, audio guides in 20 languages, Expert whisky guide, Crystal Whisky Glass souvenir

7. Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Day Tour Including Admission

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

Get away from Edinburgh and travel to Scotland’s rugged countryside to enjoy a whisky tour with a small group. You will be visiting the hilly lowlands and forested highlands of Scotland, where you’ll find the best distilleries in the country.

This tour also lets you see and admire the beauty of nature as you pass by and make time to visit waterfalls, rivers and lochs. You will then proceed with the whisky tour in quaint towns where you can enjoy tastings and discover distilleries while soaking up the stunning Scottish landscape.  

“A lovely full day. Really kind and informative guide (such a treat to be driven everywhere and learn and laugh along the way). The Scottish scenery was beyond beautiful. We really enjoyed our lunch in the small town of Pitlochry and the distillery, Aberfeldy, was also an awesome experience.” – Teva_H 

The full-day excursion starts at Edinburgh, where you will meet your guide and fellow tour joiners. You will then travel through the countryside and cross the Forth Road Bridge, one of the longest cantilever bridges. 

As you make your way through the lowlands and highlands, you can enjoy the scenic landscapes of Scotland while your guide shares exciting stories. You’ll mainly be traversing through mountains, thick forests, and farmland before you reach your first destination. 

The first stop is at the Hermitage Woodland Walk, where you will walk through the dense woodland to see the waterfalls. After your nature walks, you will head to the Queen’s View, the favourite queen’s view. 

Afterwards, you will visit Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery or Glenturret Distillery, where you will learn more about whisky. Your guide will share the process of making whisky and how this distillery has a different method. 

• Start Time (and location):  9:00 AM at Edinburgh Bus Station
• Duration: 10 hours 
• Includes:  Admission Fee: Tour & Tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy, Distillery Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

8. The Ultimate Whisky Experience From Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 hours| ✅ Book it !

Another ultimate whisky experience from Edinburgh you can join is this 10-hour whisky distillery Edinburgh tour. You will travel to the Scottish Highlands from the city centre to get a taste of Scotch whiskies and have the whole day learning about the famous drink. 

This tour proudly offers a visit to unique destinations often missed by tourists. Between each distillery visit, you will also be making a side trip to see and explore the nature and landscape of Scotland. 

“This was a great day trip – gorgeous countryside, excellent distillery tour’s and tastings and all very informative. Our guide prepped us with background on Scottish whiskey and also Scottish history. Definitely recommend.”-Victor_P

This tour is ideal if you want to spend your day in Edinburgh and explore the countryside while tasting good whisky. As you make your way to the highlands, you will enjoy a commentary from your guide in the minibus and see the scenic route you will be taking.

Before reaching the first Distillery you will visit, you will pass by South Queensferry, where you can take great photos of the famous bridge.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery will be the first stop of this full-day tour, a renowned crafted whisky producer since 1898. You will have a full time of their warehouse and interactive heritage exhibition, plus a taste of Aberfeldy’s 12-year-old single malt whisky. 

You will also head to Glenturret Distillery in the afternoon, just outside Crieff. This is the oldest working distillery in Scotland and is still hand-crafting whisky using the last remaining hand-operated mash tun. 

• Start Time (and location): 8:45 AM at Lawnmarket
• Duration: 10 hours
• Includes:  Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

9. Whisky And Highland Waterfalls Day Trip From Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5   | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!

This tour combines two must-try experiences in Edinburgh, Scotland – a whisky tour experience and a highland waterfall day trip. During the journey, you will traverse the Scottish Highlands to enjoy a day at a distillery and marvel at the majesty of Loch Lomong and Trossachs National Park. 

Meanwhile, at the Glenturret Distillery, you will tour their warehouse, learn about their whisky-making process, and sample some of their malt whiskies. The tour ends with a visit to the Hermitage forest and the village of Dunkeld. 

“Dusty was a great guide. We had a wonderful time. He was very informative and gave us recommendations on places to eat. Our trip to the distillery was just the right amount of time. The waterfall was less than impressive but the walk in nature was very nice.”-Lenora_S

The trip begins with an early meet-up at Edinburgh with your small group tour and guide. From there, you will head to the National Wallace Monument, passing by spectacular views and landmarks such as the Stirling Castle.  

You will also be heading to admire the natural and cultural sights like Loch Earn and Loch Lomond and then make your way to visit Trossachs National Park.

The next stop of the tour is at the famous Glenturret whisky distillery. Here, you can sample a dram of whisky straight from its cask and learn about its traditional methods to produce single malt. 

The trip continues to the Hermitage, where you will stroll through lined paths and see the Braan River and Black Linn Falls. You’ll end the tour with a walk in nature, heading to the village of Dunkeld, where the famous Dunkeld Cathedral is located.  

• Start Time (and location): Time varies at Edinburgh Bus Station 
• Includes: Local Scottish English Speaking Guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

FAQs About whiskey tours from edinburgh

How long is the whisky tour in edinburgh.

A whisky tour in Edinburgh typically lasts around 1-3 hours, but can vary depending on the length of the guided part of the tour.

Visitors can expect to sample a variety of different whiskies, learn about their history and production process, and even find out more about Scotland’s whisky culture.

Of course, guests will also have plenty of opportunity to purchase bottles and other whisky-related merchandise while on the tour.

what is the most famous distillery in edinburgh?

Edinburgh is home to several renowned whisky distilleries, but the most famous of all is undoubtedly the Glenkinchie Distillery.

Located in Pencaitland, just outside of Edinburgh, it is one of only six distilleries in Scotland that make Scotch whisky.

The unique pale malt used in their whisky gives it a distinctive flavour and the distillery offers tours every day so you can learn more about how Scotch whisky is made.

So if you’re looking for the most famous distillery in Edinburgh, look no further than Glenkinchie!

is edinburgh known for whiskey?

Edinburgh is known for its whiskey, in particular Scotch whisky. The city has a long-standing tradition of whisky distilling and there are several whisky distilleries in the area.

Even within the city itself, there are several pubs and bars that serve Scotch whiskies from around Scotland. Edinburgh is a great place to visit for anyone looking to sample some of Scotland’s top tipple!

What is the best whisky distillery tour in Scotland

Whisky distilleries in Scotland offer some of the most interesting, unique, and educational tours in the world.

Some of the best whisky distillery tours in Scotland are offered by Edradour Distillery in Pitlochry, Glenkinchie Distillery near Edinburgh, The Macallan Distillery in Speyside, and The Oban Distillery on the west coast.

Each of these distilleries offers a variety of tour options for whisky enthusiasts to gain an insight into how traditional Scotch whisky is made. From a guided tour of the production facilities to an exclusive tasting with a master distiller, there is something for everyone.

Visitors can also buy bottles from the gift shop or sample their own blend after visiting one of these incredible distilleries.

No matter which distillery you choose to visit, you will be sure to have a memorable experience that will ignite your passion for whisky even further.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable day out exploring Scotland’s rich whisky heritage then any one of these four fantastic whisky distilleries is sure to provide it!

Final Thoughts: whisky tours in edinburgh

Whisky tours from Edinburgh are an exciting and unique way to experience Scotland. From the Highlands to Lowlands, you can visit a variety of distilleries and be immersed in the culture and history behind Scotland’s national drink.

So why not make the most of your time here and book one of these amazing whisky tours? With knowledgeable local guides, you’ll get to sample some of the finest whisky Scotland has to offer!

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• Ultimate Travel Guide to Edinburgh

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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