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How to reach the Edinburgh Ghost Tours starting locations?

Not sure where to begin your ghost tour adventure? Most Edinburgh ghost tours start right in the heart of the Old Town, either at Mercat Cross beside St Giles’ Cathedral, the Edinburgh Dungeon, or the City of Edinburgh Tours office. These spots are all within a short walking distance of each other, making them easy to reach from anywhere in the city.

Locations of starting points

Group reacting to a performer in the Anatomy Theatre at the Edinburgh Dungeon.
  • Mercat Cross, High Street, beside St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh EH1 1RE | Map
  • The Edinburgh Dungeon, 31 Market St, Edinburgh EH1 1DF | Map
  • City of Edinburgh Tours, 154 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS | Map

Mercat Cross is a famous landmark on the Royal Mile, right outside St Giles’ Cathedral. The Edinburgh Dungeon sits on Market Street, just below Waverley Station, while City of Edinburgh Tours is further up the High Street. All three are central, historic, and within easy walking distance of each other.

Getting to Edinburgh ghost tour starting points by public transport

  • Best for: Visitors arriving from other cities
  • Travel time: 10 minutes walk
  • Closest stop: Edinburgh Waverley Station, 0.3 km from Mercat Cross
  • Timings: Trains to Waverley generally run from 5:30am until midnight, with later services on weekends.

If you’re arriving at Edinburgh Waverley, you’re just minutes away. Exit onto Market Street for the Dungeon, head uphill to reach Mercat Cross, or turn towards High Street for the City of Edinburgh Tours office. Everything’s within a short stroll.

  • Best for: Budget-friendly local travel
  • Travel time: 5–10 minutes walk
  • Closest stop: Princes Street, 0.4 km from Mercat Cross
  • Timings: Buses in central Edinburgh run from around 5am until midnight, with night buses (marked ‘N’) continuing until 4:30am.

From Princes Street, cross the North Bridge and you’ll be in the Old Town within 5 minutes. Mercat Cross, the Dungeon, and City of Edinburgh Tours are all easy to reach from here by following signs for the Royal Mile.

  • Best for: Airport transfers
  • Travel time: 10 minutes walk
  • Closest stop: St Andrew Square, 0.8 km from Mercat Cross
  • Timings: Edinburgh Trams run every 7–10 minutes from 6:15am to 11:30pm.

From St Andrew Square, walk across Princes Street, head up the North Bridge, and continue until you reach the High Street. Mercat Cross and the other starting points are a quick 10-minute walk from there.

Getting to the Edinburgh ghost tour starting points by car

Driving route

  • Best for: Convenience if staying outside the city
  • Travel time: 10–15 minutes from central Edinburgh hotels
  • Distance: About 1 km from Haymarket, 12 km from Edinburgh Airport

From Haymarket, follow Lothian Road toward Princes Street, then cross North Bridge to reach the Royal Mile. Parking is limited in Old Town, so plan ahead.

Parking facilities

Walking to the Edinburgh ghost tour starting points

  • Best for: Sightseeing before your spooky evening
  • Travel time: 10 to 15 minutes from most central hotels
  • Distance: 0.8 km from Princes Street to Mercat Cross

Walking is often the best option. From Princes Street, head up North Bridge and continue onto the Royal Mile. You’ll find Mercat Cross outside St Giles’ Cathedral, with the Edinburgh Dungeon just below Waverley and City of Edinburgh Tours nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh ghost tour starting points

Where exactly is Mercat Cross?

Mercat Cross is located on the Royal Mile, right outside St Giles’ Cathedral. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

How close are the starting points to each other?

Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Dungeon, and City of Edinburgh Tours are all within a five-minute walk of one another, making it easy to find your guide.

How do I spot my guide at the meeting point?

Guides usually carry a sign, wear distinctive clothing, or announce themselves before the tour begins. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early helps ensure you don’t miss them.

Are there restrooms near the starting points?

Yes, you’ll find public restrooms inside Waverley Station and nearby cafés on the Royal Mile, just a short walk from all meeting points.

Is it safe to walk to the starting points at night?

Yes, central Edinburgh is lively and well-lit in the evenings. With groups gathering for tours, you’ll feel comfortable walking to the meeting spot.

Can I grab food or drinks before the tour?

Definitely! The Royal Mile and Market Street are filled with pubs, cafés, and restaurants where you can grab a bite before your ghostly adventure.

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All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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