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Book Edinburgh Castle Tickets
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- Experience the riveting history of Scotland unraveled on a 90-minute guided tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
- Bypass the bustling crowds with seamless fast-track entry, and uncover the castle's sights like the Chapel of Saint Margaret, the city's oldest building.
- See the sword and the scepter, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isle, and admire the city views from the Castle Rock volcano.
- Tailor the experience to your comfort with your preferred language, English or Spanish, and steep in 3,000-year-old Scottish history.
- Experience the riveting history of Scotland unraveled on a 90-minute guided tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
- Bypass the bustling crowds with seamless fast-track entry, and uncover the castle's sights like the Chapel of Saint Margaret, the city's oldest building.
- See the sword and the scepter, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isle, and admire the city views from the Castle Rock volcano.
- Tailor the experience to your comfort with your preferred language, English or Spanish, and steep in 3,000-year-old Scottish history.
Inclusions
- 90-min guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
- Skip-the-line entry
- English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the One O'Clock Gun – it fires every day except Sunday, Good Friday, and Christmas Day.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- Flash photography and tripods are not allowed on this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.7
83 ratings
65
15
3
0
0
Guests from United States, Spain, Ireland and over 23 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ashton
May 2025Verified booking
The castle tour was absolutely amazing. My best friend and I were visiting Edinburgh for the first time and decided to go on the castle tour and it was DEFINITELY worth it. The castle itself is already amazing but our tour guide Jen was absolutely incredible. From start to finish she seemingly knew everything there was to know about the castle, was very fun and engaging and made the tour even better. Anyone planning on doing this tour should 100% do it and 1000% as for Jen if you can!
Patrick
Mar 2025Verified booking
Good guided tour complete explanations
Simon
Jun 2025Verified booking
We thought the tour was superb, thanks to our guide Raj who was very well informed, lucid and humorous. I have no hesitation in recommending the tour to anyone.
Sydney
Jun 2025Verified booking
The tour was pretty shambolic at first. We were in the first group and the girl told us to wait across the road. She then disappeared. Seven of us joined the second group with Ross. He rescued the situation and was a very good D guide - informative, interesting and entertaining.. would have been excellent except the shambolic start.
GJH
May 2025Verified booking
The guide knew more than enough about the history and residents of the castle. Occasionally it became long-winded when talking about the family connections. Furthermore, the environment is very noisy and the group too large so you cannot understand the guide. Otherwise, the castle is breathtakingly beautiful and restored. After the tour you can visit the various rooms in buildings on your own.
View original review in Dutch
Polina
May 2025Verified booking
The castle view was spectacular and it was our guide, Jen, who made this experience even more memorable. Jen's story made me feel the medieval Scottish vibes and become a part of the castle's history. Absolutely enjoyed it and would highly recommend. Thanks for your effort and passion Jen!
Irina
May 2025Verified booking
Quick, all instructions were clear. At the meeting point we had a quick check in with our guide and the visit at the castle was FAB!
Célia
May 2025Verified booking
We loved our experience!!! Two years ago we were in Edinburgh, but unfortunately we couldn't visit the Castle. This time we bought tickets in advance to ensure the visit. Scotland is a country with a history that I love, so visiting it is already a pleasure!! The visit to the Castle was a dream come true, the group we joined was good and friendly!! Our guide was excellent, super knowledgeable about the facts and history!!! Thank you so much Angeles 'la sevillana'!!! Kisses
Jane
May 2025Verified booking
Very well organised tour of Edinburgh Castle. Lots of interesting information and the right length of time. Our guide was excellent. Booking process was very easy and instructions on where to meet were clear. Thank you!
McKensie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our tour guide was absolutely amazing, with two masters in history, you could feel her love of the subject. It made all the difference in the world!
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide Fernando was a charming person who told us about the most important events in the history of the castle in a very clear and pleasant way. An unforgettable tour
View original review in Spanish
Stella
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide Sophia was informative, and answered questions well, her impression of Queen Victoria was entertaining😂 Quick entry was helpful as saved time, no queues. Would recommend, thank you for a great experience.
PABLO
Jun 2025Verified booking
Great guide! He was very clear & charm!
Cristina
May 2025Verified booking
How wonderful the guide was How impressive the castle is
View original review in Spanish
Angye
May 2025Verified booking
Excellent guide Jesus and his explanations and super friendly attitude.
View original review in Spanish
J.L.Fdez
May 2025Verified booking
Wonderful .Santiago a good guide
Jesús
Apr 2025Verified booking
María our guide is amazing...she has deeply knowledge of the history and she is great as storyteller...great experience
STYLIANOS
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was very good and enthusiastic.
Cátia
Mar 2025Verified booking
our guide was super nice, and fun! it was great hearing her telling us all the stories about the castle. we loved it!
Andrea
Mar 2025Verified booking
Lorena very entertaining to tell the history of the castle. Very good tour and beautiful place
View original review in Spanish
Rosemari
Jun 2025Verified booking
Andrew
May 2025Verified booking
Salih
May 2025Verified booking
ACYLINO
May 2025Verified booking
Joanna
May 2025Verified booking
Explore sites that inspired the Harry Potter films with a small group & visit Edinburgh Castle
- Join a Harry Potter-themed walking tour guided by an expert English-speaking guide, complete with exclusive access to Edinburgh Castle.
- The Edinburgh University Old College will draw you in with its 18th-century allure, and visit the Elephant House café, the birthplace of Harry Potter.
- Try to spot Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and see a shop on Victoria Street that inspired the famous Diagon Alley.
- Enter Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scottish heritage, and learn about its dark connection with witches and wizards of the past.
Explore sites that inspired the Harry Potter films with a small group & visit Edinburgh Castle
- Join a Harry Potter-themed walking tour guided by an expert English-speaking guide, complete with exclusive access to Edinburgh Castle.
- The Edinburgh University Old College will draw you in with its 18th-century allure, and visit the Elephant House café, the birthplace of Harry Potter.
- Try to spot Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and see a shop on Victoria Street that inspired the famous Diagon Alley.
- Enter Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scottish heritage, and learn about its dark connection with witches and wizards of the past.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Entry to Edinburgh Castle
- Tip: Keep an eye out for "The Boy Wizard" shop on Victoria Street, known for its Harry Potter-themed merchandise.
- This experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs and pets are welcome on this experience.
- You will meet your guide outside the Tron Kirk market, opposite Bella Italia on the Royal Mile.
- No Harry Potter film locations are included in this tour as no filming took place in Edinburgh.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of King Charles III in Scotland, and discover the royal world of intrigue and splendor.
- Prepare for a royal tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, used by His Majesty for State ceremonies, and learn fascinating facts from your audio guide.
- See the Bechamber, Supper Room, and Outer Chamber of Mary, Queen of Scots, which witnessed tragedy and murder during her turbulent reign.
- Admire works of art from the Royal Collection in the State Apartments, whose decor reflects the changing tastes of the successive monarchs.
- Upgrade your tickets to include a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off pass which includes entry to Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Yacht Britannia.
- Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of King Charles III in Scotland, and discover the royal world of intrigue and splendor.
- Prepare for a royal tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, used by His Majesty for State ceremonies, and learn fascinating facts from your audio guide.
- See the Bechamber, Supper Room, and Outer Chamber of Mary, Queen of Scots, which witnessed tragedy and murder during her turbulent reign.
- Admire works of art from the Royal Collection in the State Apartments, whose decor reflects the changing tastes of the successive monarchs.
- Upgrade your tickets to include a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off pass which includes entry to Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Yacht Britannia.
Inclusions
- Entry to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Audio guide in English, Brazilian Portuguese, French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian and Spanish
- 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus (as per option selected)
- Entry to Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Yacht Britannia (as per option selected)
- Audio guide on the bus (as per option selected)
- Keep in mind that bags larger than 45cm × 20cm × 30cm are not allowed in this experience. Pack wisely!
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed inside the State Apartments.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible, except in some parts of Mary, Queen of Scots' rooms.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- As the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal palace, security, and opening arrangements may be subject to change at short notice.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 36 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.5
4,463 ratings
3.2K
890
65
44
266
Guests from United States, Spain, Italy and over 41 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Michèle
May 2025Verified booking
Unfortunately, buying the ticket was not as I had imagined. I thought I would get a barcode and that would be the entrance fee. That wasn't the case and I still had to queue at the ticket office.
View original review in German
Marzahn,
May 2025Verified booking
A beautiful castle with a lot of historical background. The audio guide made it easy and convenient to get all the important information. It's essential to book admission in advance so that you can make the most of the excursion.
View original review in German
Beverly
May 2025Verified booking
The whole experience was good. We enjoyed our tour.
Teri-ann
Jun 2025Verified booking
Easy to book online. Printed tickets on arrival which we got to keep as a souvenir. Audio guides very good and free of charge
Sandra
Jun 2025Verified booking
Straight forward ticket collection. Visit to Palace was excellent as was the audio guide, not only telling us about each individual item but some very interesting and sometimes funny antedotes. All in all a very good experience
Gabrielle
Jun 2025Verified booking
The 48hr ticket was great value - also including entry to Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyrood House and the Royal Yacht Brittania.
Matthew
Jun 2025Verified booking
Easy to book, helpful staff and great to be able to get tickets to to the three Royal attractions. Bus commentary was good and being available in Chinese was great for my wife. Recommend the full package.
Beate
Jun 2025Verified booking
Hello, the system with the buses and great. As I travel with a crutch and find it difficult to walk long distances, we took a cab to Waterloo Place to activate the 48-hour ticket. We had a room at the Grasmarket. There was also a hop on, hop off bus stop there. It would have been nice to be able to hop on anywhere to activate the ticket! I think another passenger did that too! If that were possible, it would at least be easier for people with walking disabilities! So long Bea and Marie
View original review in German
Paula
May 2025Verified booking
Loved that it was a self guided tour. The Palace was well worth visiting, however, very dissapointed we could not visit the gardens. No where when I booked the tickets did it say the gardens would b closed.
ADRIAN
May 2025Verified booking
What I would like to comment, and that does not appear is that I had a very good experience with the guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, very good guide. About Holyrood I can't add much, I already wrote about it at another time, since it is only about the purchase of tickets, they were available.
View original review in Spanish
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
The reservation through the web was very easy to make and upon arrival at the palace was very fast the procedure to enter. What you see of the palace on the visit is impressive, not all the rooms of course, and unforgettable. They do not let you take pictures in the rooms, only in the cloister. The remains of the Abbey are beautiful but they don't let you enter it either.
View original review in Spanish
Craig
Apr 2025Verified booking
The size of Holyrood Palace compared to Windsor made it much more intimate and pleasant to experience. The history added a lovely element to the tour.
Yerly
Mar 2025Verified booking
A magnificent palace rich in history. The explanations given in translation are detailed. The gardens are calm and well-tended.
View original review in French
Bhavna
Jun 2025Verified booking
Everything good hip on hip off was the best
Chantal
Jun 2025Verified booking
Easy to get to. Stops well signposted. The royal tour was perfect with all three visits included.
View original review in French
Marian
Jun 2025Verified booking
I loved the visit to the palacr and all the information about Mary, Queen of Scots.
Heike
May 2025Verified booking
Very well and simply organized, a wonderful tour.
View original review in German
Janice
May 2025Verified booking
Helpful staff friendly informative tickets easy to use audio on bus good
Paula
May 2025Verified booking
This place is perfect for know about the history
Lucille
May 2025Verified booking
Nice clean buses, the most awesome drivers ever!! Everyone was so nice and helpful!
Braun
May 2025Verified booking
Everything is fine with audioguide ❤️❤️
View original review in German
Bruno
May 2025Verified booking
Visit with audio guides organized beautifully
View original review in Italian
Twyla
May 2025Verified booking
The history, and the descriptions and uses of the rooms.
Kimberly
Apr 2025Verified booking
Everything! Really appreciated the audio sets!
Sophie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Pleasant and self-paced with audioguide
View original review in French
Hop-on Hop-off Tours Edinburgh
Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Routes
Timeline
Map
1
Waterloo Place
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Calton Hill
1 min walk
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
6 min walk
2
St. Andrew Square
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
St. Andrew Square Gardens
2 min walk
Scott Monument
5 min walk
3
Lothian Road
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Usher Hall
2 min walk
Traverse Theatre
1 min walk
4
Grassmarket
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Grassmarket Square
1 min walk
Victoria Street
6 min walk
5
Lawnmarket
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
1 min walk
Writers’ Museum
1 min walk
6
John Knox House
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
National Museum of Scotland
2 min walk
Bedlam Theatre
2 min walk
7
Holyrood
Get direction
3 attractions
Nearby things to do
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1 min walk
Scottish Parliament Building
Holyrood Park
8 min walk
8
Our Dynamic Earth
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Our Dynamic Earth
The Queen’s Gallery
6 min walk
1
Waterloo Place
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Calton Hill
1 min walk
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
6 min walk
2
St. Andrew Square
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
St. Andrew Square Gardens
2 min walk
Scott Monument
5 min walk
3
Charlotte Square
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
The Georgian House
Princes Street Gardens
9 min walk
4
Lothian Road
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Usher Hall
2 min walk
Traverse Theatre
1 min walk
5
Grassmarket
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Grassmarket Square
1 min walk
Victoria Street
6 min walk
6
Lawnmarket
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
1 min walk
Writers’ Museum
1 min walk
7
John Knox House
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
National Museum of Scotland
2 min walk
Bedlam Theatre
2 min walk
8
Holyrood
Get direction
3 attractions
Nearby things to do
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1 min walk
Scottish Parliament Building
Holyrood Park
8 min walk
9
Our Dynamic Earth
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Our Dynamic Earth
The Queen’s Gallery
6 min walk
1
Waterloo Place
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Calton Hill
1 min walk
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
6 min walk
2
Holyrood
Get direction
3 attractions
Nearby things to do
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1 min walk
Scottish Parliament Building
Holyrood Park
8 min walk
3
St. Andrew Square
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
St. Andrew Square Gardens
2 min walk
Scott Monument
5 min walk
4
Royal Botanic Garden
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1 min walk
Inverleith House
5
Newhaven
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Newhaven Harbour Lighthouse
2 min walk
Newhaven Fish Market
2 min walk
6
The Shore
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
The Shore
1 min walk
Nelson Monument
12 min walk
7
Ocean Terminal
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
Royal Yacht Britannia
4 min walk
Ocean Terminal Mall
7 min walk
8
Bonnington Rd
Get direction
2 attractions
Nearby things to do
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
10 min walk
Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop
5 min walk
Palaces, panoramas, and pounds saved! Edinburgh’s best sights in one cost-saving combo.
- Edinburgh's royal sights are yours to see on this 48-hour hop-on hop-off tour with direct access to 3 popular attractions – your wallet will thank you later.
- Discover royal history at Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace and tour the floating Royal Yacht Britannia, all easily accessible on your HOHO route.
- Marvel at medieval rooms, precious jewels, and Mary, Queen of Scots' living spaces and peek into the Queen's private rooms and fancy tea areas.
- Explore Edinburgh your way with the flexible HOHO pass. Three routes and 50+ well-placed stops let you see top sights like the Parliament and the Botanic Garden.
- Catch a double-decker every 30 mins and pick from various language audio guides or enjoy lively English commentary on the green route.
Palaces, panoramas, and pounds saved! Edinburgh’s best sights in one cost-saving combo.
- Edinburgh's royal sights are yours to see on this 48-hour hop-on hop-off tour with direct access to 3 popular attractions – your wallet will thank you later.
- Discover royal history at Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace and tour the floating Royal Yacht Britannia, all easily accessible on your HOHO route.
- Marvel at medieval rooms, precious jewels, and Mary, Queen of Scots' living spaces and peek into the Queen's private rooms and fancy tea areas.
- Explore Edinburgh your way with the flexible HOHO pass. Three routes and 50+ well-placed stops let you see top sights like the Parliament and the Botanic Garden.
- Catch a double-decker every 30 mins and pick from various language audio guides or enjoy lively English commentary on the green route.
Inclusions
Royal Attractions
- Entry to Edinburgh Castle (Close to stop 6, Red route & stop 8, Green route)
- Entry to Royal Yacht Britannia (Close to stop 14, Blue route)
- Entry to Palace of Holyroodhouse (Close to stops 11 & 13, Red route, stops 13 & 15, Green route & stop 3, Blue route)
- Audio guide in 30 languages (Royal Yacht Britannia)
- Audio guide in 9 languages (Palace of Holyroodhouse)
Edinburgh HOHO
- 48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
- Access to Red, Green & Blue routes
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, Scottish & Portuguese (Red & Blue routes)
- Horrible Histories children’s commentary
- English-speaking guide (Green route)
- Headphones
- Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking
Please click here for detailed route maps and boarding points.
You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Red route
- First bus: 8:50am from Waterloo Place
- Last bus: 4:20pm from Waterloo Place
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Popular stops: Edinburgh Castle, Old Town, Royal Mile
Green route
- First bus: 9am from Waterloo Place
- Last bus: 4pm from Waterloo Place
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Popular stops: Georgian New Town, Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse
Blue route
- First bus: 9:10am from Waterloo Place
- Last bus: 3:40pm from Waterloo Place
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Popular stops: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Royal Yacht Britannia, Palace of Holyroodhouse
Royal Attractions
- Tip: Don't miss the Honours of Scotland exhibition at Edinburgh Castle, showcasing the oldest Crown jewels in the British Isles!
- Parts of Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse are wheelchair accessible.
- The Royal Yacht Britannia experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Note that the ticket lets you visit Edinburgh Castle and Royal Yacht Britannia within 48 hours. If you need to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse outside of that timeframe, your ticket will still be valid.
- Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult or senior citizen during their visit.
- The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except from 25 May to 8 September 2025, when it remains open daily.
Edinburgh HOHO
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Mobility scooters are allowed if folded and stored as luggage.
- Your guide dogs and pet dogs are welcome aboard.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.4
105 ratings
62
34
2
4
3
Guests from United States, Australia, Netherlands and over 20 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Gabrielle
Jun 2025Verified booking
The 48hr ticket was great value - also including entry to Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyrood House and the Royal Yacht Brittania.
Matthew
Jun 2025Verified booking
Easy to book, helpful staff and great to be able to get tickets to to the three Royal attractions. Bus commentary was good and being available in Chinese was great for my wife. Recommend the full package.
Beate
Jun 2025Verified booking
Hello, the system with the buses and great. As I travel with a crutch and find it difficult to walk long distances, we took a cab to Waterloo Place to activate the 48-hour ticket. We had a room at the Grasmarket. There was also a hop on, hop off bus stop there. It would have been nice to be able to hop on anywhere to activate the ticket! I think another passenger did that too! If that were possible, it would at least be easier for people with walking disabilities! So long Bea and Marie
View original review in German
Bhavna
Jun 2025Verified booking
Everything good hip on hip off was the best
Chantal
Jun 2025Verified booking
Easy to get to. Stops well signposted. The royal tour was perfect with all three visits included.
View original review in French
Janice
May 2025Verified booking
Helpful staff friendly informative tickets easy to use audio on bus good
Lucille
May 2025Verified booking
Nice clean buses, the most awesome drivers ever!! Everyone was so nice and helpful!
Peter
Jun 2025Verified booking
Michael
Jun 2025Verified booking
Steve
May 2025Verified booking
John
May 2025Verified booking
TATIANE
May 2025Verified booking
Alain
May 2025Verified booking
Bibitha
May 2025Verified booking
Raymond
May 2025Verified booking
Infermo
May 2025Verified booking
Stewart
Apr 2025Verified booking
Rory
Mar 2025Verified booking
Erika
Mar 2025Verified booking
Frank
Mar 2025Verified booking
Ivaylo
Mar 2025Verified booking
Eva
Mar 2025Verified booking
Delaunay
Jun 2025Verified booking
The rest of the adventure went well. But access to Holyrood was impossible, so the ticket should be refunded in part.
View original review in French
Deborah
May 2025Verified booking
As I bought the Edinburgh Royal Attractions and when I went to convert tickets was told the Holyrood Palace was closed. This was not advertised on website. Not happy...emailed Edinburgh tours for refund they do not refund !!!
Aurelie
May 2025Verified booking
The drivers were attentive and helpful
View original review in French
Walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with an expert guide, exploring its history and gems.
- Why choose this: Explore the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace and hear tales of historical figures like Mary Queen of Scots.
- Everything you get: A 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile and hear stories of the city’s past while exploring historic closes.
- You will see: The upper half of the Royal Mile, lined with centuries-old buildings, wynds, and courtyards that witnessed Edinburgh’s political evolution.
- Upgrades: Opt for skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle, saving an hour in queues. Explore leisurely and learn its history after the guided tour.
Walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with an expert guide, exploring its history and gems.
- Why choose this: Explore the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace and hear tales of historical figures like Mary Queen of Scots.
- Everything you get: A 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile and hear stories of the city’s past while exploring historic closes.
- You will see: The upper half of the Royal Mile, lined with centuries-old buildings, wynds, and courtyards that witnessed Edinburgh’s political evolution.
- Upgrades: Opt for skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle, saving an hour in queues. Explore leisurely and learn its history after the guided tour.
Inclusions
- 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the Royal Mile and Old Town
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Audio devices
- Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle (as per option selected)
- 45-min introduction to Edinburgh Castle (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
- This tour only covers the upper half of the Royal Mile.
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 5 years are not allowed on this experience.
- This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
EdinburghEdinburgh Castle
Make the most of Edinburgh
Why visit Edinburgh Castle
- Built atop an extinct volcano: Castle Rock, the hill on which the castle sits, is the plug of an extinct volcano that last erupted over 340 million years ago.
- Hidden tower: David's Tower was built in the 14th century but collapsed during the Lang Siege of 1573. The tower ruins were buried beneath the Half Moon Battery, but they were rediscovered in 1912.
- Prison for American prisoners of war: During the American War of Independence, over 1,100 American prisoners were held captive in Edinburgh Castle. One prisoner, Ebeneezer Fox, carved a depiction of the American flag into the wall of his cell. This is believed to be the earliest known depiction of the Stars and Stripes outside of the United States.
- Said to be haunted: There are many different ghost stories associated with Edinburgh Castle, including the story of the headless drummer, the ghost of Mary Queen of Scots, and the ghost of a dog that was once thrown from the castle walls.
Which Edinburgh Castle ticket is best for you
If you are on a budget
Go for: Walking tour
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Yes
- Join an English-speaking guide on an exploration of the Royal Mile and the attractions along the route and learn about Scotland's history and its prominent residents like Mary Queen of Scots and Roberts Burns.
- Upgrade your tickets for skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle and an audio guide
Recommended tour:
If you are short on time
Go for: Priority entry ticket
Duration: 1.5 hours
Guide: Audio
- Bypass the long lines and crowds with priority access on this 90-minute guided tour of Edinburgh Castle.
- Explore the Chapel of Saint Margaret and see the Crown Jewels and learn about their history with an audio guide in English or Spanish.
Recommended tour:
If you want to explore beyond
Go for: Combo ticket
Duration: 4 hours
Guide: Yes
- Pair your visit to Edinburgh Castle with a Harry Potter-themed walking tour with an English-speaking guide.
- Explore the Edinburgh University Old College, the birthplace of Harry Potter at the Elephant House Cafe, Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and the shop that inspired Diagon Alley.
Recommended tour:
What to see at Edinburgh Castle
Crown Jewels of Scotland
Behold the dazzling Crown Jewels, exquisite works of art. Crafted with gold, silver, and precious gemstones, the Crown of Scotland boasts the honor of being the oldest surviving crown in the British Isles.
Great Hall
A colossal space measuring over 100 feet in length and 40 feet in width, this historic hall once resonated with celebration during banquets and royal ceremonies. Today, it houses the National War Museum of Scotland.
Royal Palace
Wander through the corridors of the Royal Palace, once a regal residence, now a living museum that narrates the tale of Scotland's monarchs. Explore the King's Apartments, the Queen's Apartments, and the State Apartments.
St Margaret's Chapel
Gaze upon the ethereal beauty of St Margaret's Chapel, the castle's oldest gem. Legend has it that Saint Margaret, King Malcolm III's queen, gave birth to King David I. This simple chapel boasts a serene nave, choir, and side chapels.
Mons Meg
Encounter the colossal Mons Meg, a cannon of awe-inspiring proportions. This behemoth stretches over 16 feet in length and weighs a staggering 15 tons. In the 15th century, it stood as one of Europe's mightiest cannons.
One o'clock Gun
Join in the daily tradition that dates back to the 18th century, as the One o'clock Gun reverberates across the castle grounds. This midday spectacle draws both locals and visitors alike to the Half Moon Battery.
Half Moon Battery
Not just a vantage point, the Half Moon Battery offers panoramic views. With the city and the sprawling countryside stretched before you, it's the perfect stage for the One o'clock Gun's thunderous performance.
National War Museum
Immerse yourself in Scotland's military legacy, spanning from the Jacobite Rebellions to the crucible of World War II. Marvel at the vast array of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts that bear witness to the nation's storied military history.
Scottish National War Memorial
Pay your respects at the solemn Scottish National War Memorial, a hallowed tribute to those who laid down their lives in the name of Scotland. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Queen Anne Building
This majestic venue at Edinburgh Castle is available for booking for private events, banquets, or cocktail parties for up to 170 guests. See the castle lit up at night with a piper's welcome and flaming torches at the drawbridge at the event.
Real Mary King's Close
Venture beneath the historic Royal Mile to unearth a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers dating back to the 14th century. Unearth the city's clandestine past, with sights such as the Edinburgh Vaults, taverns, shops, and even a prison.
Queen's Embroideries
Artistry takes center stage in the Queen's Gallery, where royal embroidery by Mary Queen of Scots graces the walls. These exquisite creations are a testament to the royal artistry of the queen during her exile.
Argyle Tower
This vaulted chamber is dominated by a huge model trebuchet that towers above a stone ball believed to have been fired at the castle during the siege of 1296, the first time giant catapults are recorded being used in Scotland.
Prisons of War
In the 1700s and 1800s, pirates and prisoners of war were held in dark, cramped spaces below Crown Square, including prisoners from France, America, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Denmark, and Poland.
Regimental museums
Now known as the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, the regiment helped King Charles II fight 17th-century religious dissenters called Covenanters. Both the Royal Scots Museum and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum are on top of the hill.
David's Tower
Originally the heart of the castle at 100ft, the tower was the royal residence for 100 years. It was built by David II in the 1300s but was incomplete at the time of his death in 1371. By the early 1500s, the Royal Palace took over as the residence.
Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle
Timings
Location
Entrances
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
- April 1 to September 30: 9:30am to 6pm
- October 1 to December 23: 9:30am to 5pm
- December 24: 9:30am to 4pm
- December 27 to 31: 9:30am to 5pm
- January 1: 11am to 5pm
- January 2 to March 31: 9:30am to 5pm
Last entry: One hour before closing time
Closed on: July 3, December 25, and December 26. Unexpected closures may occur due to bad weather or other circumstances.
Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK
Getting there
- By metro: The nearest metro station to Edinburgh Castle is West End - Princes Street. From the station, it is a short walk up the Royal Mile to the castle.
- By car: There is no public parking at Edinburgh Castle. However, there are several car parks in the surrounding area, including Castle Terrace Car Park, Princes Street Car Park, and Waverley Parking.
- By bus: Some buses stop near Edinburgh Castle, including Lothian Buses 24, 35, 38, and 45. From the bus stop, it is a short walk up the Royal Mile to the castle.
- By Hop-on hop-off bus: Take the red route in City Sightseeing Edinburgh and the City Sightseeing route in Edinburgh Bus Tours to reach the closest stop Johnston Terrace
There is only one main entrance to Edinburgh Castle, which is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile. Visitors can access the castle over a wooden-slatted bridge.
However, there are many other entrances to the castle that are used for specific purposes, such as:
- The Esplanade Gate: This gate is used for access to the castle grounds and the Royal Military Tattoo.
- The Argyll Battery Gate: This gate is used for access to the Argyll Battery and the One o'clock Gun.
- The Crown Square Gate: This gate is used for access to the Crown Square area of the castle.
- The Foog's Gate: This gate is used for access to the Upper Ward of the castle.
Visitors are not permitted to use these entrances unless they have a specific reason to do so, such as attending a military event or visiting the castle grounds.
- Ticket office
- Information desk
- Guided tours
- Audio guides
- Year-round temporary exhibitions
- Cafes & restaurants
- Toilets
- Gift shops
- Many visitors to Edinburgh Castle stick to the main attractions, such as the Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. But there are also some hidden gems to be found in the castle. For example, you can visit the National War Museum of Scotland, which is housed in the castle grounds. You can also take a tour of David's Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Look for the hidden symbols and meanings. For example, the castle's portcullis gate features a carving of a crowned lion. This is a symbol of the Scottish monarchy. You can also find carvings of the thistle, the national flower of Scotland, throughout the castle.
- Take a guided tour. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the castle's history and see all the highlights.
- The Crown Jewels are one of the most popular attractions in the castle, so it's best to see them early before the crowds arrive.
- The One o'clock Gun is fired from the castle every day at 1pm. It's a popular tourist attraction, so be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.
- The Tea Rooms: Indulge in an afternoon tea or sample some of Scotland's best meals or sweet and savory snacks with a view of Edinburgh. Do try the Blacketyside raspberry, Fairtrade dark chocolate macaron, and the Ayrshire ham and Glendrath egg finger sandwich with Arran mustard.
- Redcoat Cafe: Nestled within the castle grounds, this cozy café serves up a delightful mix of Scottish and international fare, from sandwiches and salads to hearty soups and delectable cakes.
Budget: Hub by Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Rose Street), Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Cityroomz Edinburgh
Mid-range: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street), Old Waverley Hotel, Best Western Kings Manor Hotel
Luxury: The Witchery by the Castle, The Balmoral Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian
- The Royal Mile: This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs, and it is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Edinburgh.
- Palace of Holyroodhouse: This royal palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, and it is open to the public for tours.
- Arthur's Seat: This extinct volcano offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside, and it is a popular spot for hiking and walking.
- Princes Street Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle and offer a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
- National Museum of Scotland: This museum houses a collection of over 20 million objects, including artifacts from Scottish history, culture, and natural history.
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of optical illusions and interactive exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Castle tickets
How much is a ticket to Edinburgh Castle?
Ticket prices vary depending on age and group size, but start at £19.50 for adults and £11.40 for children below the age of 15.
What do Edinburgh Castle tickets include?
Tickets typically grant access to the castle grounds, including various attractions such as the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and St Margaret's Chapel. Special exhibitions or guided tours may have separate fees.
Are discounts available on tickets?
Discounts are often available for seniors, students, and children. Additionally, you may find discounted rates for online bookings, family tickets, or in combination with other historic sites.
What is the cancelation policy?
The guided tour of Edinburgh Castle cannot be canceled or rescheduled. However, the Royal Mile walking tour and the Harry Potter walking tour can be canceled 24 hours before the experience and you will get a full refund.
How long does it take to complete a tour?
The duration of your visit depends on your interests, but most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the castle's various attractions and enjoying the breathtaking views of Edinburgh.
More Reads
About Edinburgh Castle
Directions to Edinburgh Castle
Opening Hours
From happy customers
Michèle
Switzerlandmai, 2025
Unfortunately, buying the ticket was not as I had imagined. I thought I would get a barcode and that would be the entrance fee. That wasn't the case and I still had to queue at the ticket office.
View original review in German
Palace of Holyroodhouse Entrance Tickets
Marzahn,
Germanymai, 2025
A beautiful castle with a lot of historical background. The audio guide made it easy and convenient to get all the important information. It's essential to book admission in advance so that you can make the most of the excursion.
View original review in German
Palace of Holyroodhouse Entrance Tickets
Ashton
United Statesmai, 2025
The castle tour was absolutely amazing. My best friend and I were visiting Edinburgh for the first time and decided to go on the castle tour and it was DEFINITELY worth it. The castle itself is already amazing but our tour guide Jen was absolutely incredible. From start to finish she seemingly knew everything there was to know about the castle, was very fun and engaging and made the tour even better. Anyone planning on doing this tour should 100% do it and 1000% as for Jen if you can!
Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour with Fast-Track Entry
Matthew
New Zealandjun, 2025
Easy to book, helpful staff and great to be able to get tickets to to the three Royal attractions. Bus commentary was good and being available in Chinese was great for my wife. Recommend the full package.
Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Adeodato
Portugalfev, 2025
It was very easy to buy tickets at Headout. I managed to get a place at the venues the night before, when they were no longer available anywhere else. The package Palace of Holyrrodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, plus Bus Op-Off for 48 hours is an excellent value for money.
View original review in Portuguese
Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour