Walk the shadowy streets of Old Town after dark and descend into the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults as you hear true tales of murder, mystery, and restless spirits from a master storyteller. Then unwind with a whisky, local beer, or soft drink in a candlelit cellar for an experience you’ll never forget!
Kieran our guide was amazing! He had immersive knowledge about the places and Harry Potter. The tour was around 2hrs long but the time flew by in a jiffy!
The session was interactive with some Harry Potter trivia.
Overall a great experience!!
Tiffany
Sep 2025
5/5
+2 more
Our tour guide, Linda was amazing! She involved the group in ways that made even this very antisocial person comfortable and included without feeling overwhelmed. Linda's knowledge and presentation of the history we walked in were outstanding and kept us all waiting for the next story! If we ever make it back, we will be using Mercat Tours again!
Emma-jane
AustraliaJan 2026
5/5
Well organised and incredibly interesting.
Our guide Jude was an incredible story teller. She was funny, interactive and incredibly knowledgeable!
I went to the tour alone and felt completely safe and looked after :)
Sharon
New ZealandJan 2026
5/5
Lots of stories, our tour guide Veni was an awesome storyteller! The underground vaults and their history are so interesting. Finished with a drink in a little cellar. Highly recommend!
Rasa
LithuaniaJan 2026
5/5
A well-organized and interesting tour. Our guide, Jackson, charmed us with his energy, acting skills, and warm communication.
Simon
GermanyDec 2025
5/5
The tour was great with many excellent spots we might have missed otherwise. We can recommend it especially because of the small group size. The castle is beautiful with very easy access. Our guide Mark was amazing.
Ramoncito
PhilippinesDec 2025
5/5
The tour was great and exactly how it was described. Our tour guide Linda was lovely. She did take time to tell stories about the city and the castle itself.
Abigail
Oct 2025
5/5
Our guide was David RIzzio - foul-mouthed, irreverent, camp and a very fast walker. Amongst grisly ghost stories and macarbre murder tales, he also found time to heap abuse on Americans, the English, J.K. Rowling, people who walk slowly, people who don't know how to turn their phones into flashlights, other ghost tour operators, his colleagues, his ex, people in general... A hugely entertaining evening.
Why explore Edinburgh on foot?
Built for walking: Edinburgh’s Old Town is full of narrow closes, steep lanes, and hidden steps. Walking lets you reach places buses and bikes simply can’t.
Stories at street level: History here lives in the streets, not just museums. Walking with a guide helps you spot details and hear real stories you’d otherwise miss.
Great for themed tours: Ghost walks, royal history, and Harry Potter routes all work best on foot. Each stop adds context instead of rushing you through highlights.
Easy photo stops: One of the highlights of walking tours is that you can pause for castle views, winding streets, and skyline shots whenever you like. It’s easy to stop when the light or angle feels right!
Cover more, feel more: Walking lets you move through neighbourhoods, not just past them. You see locals going about their day, ask questions, linger longer, and actually take things in while starting to feel the city’s real rhythm.
Know before booking your Edinburgh walking tours
Ways to explore: You can choose from small-group tours, themed experiences like Edinburgh ghost tours or Harry potter tours, and routes focused on Edinburgh Castle . Pick small groups for good value, themed tours for specific interests, and private options if you want full control over the pace.
Coverage and entries: Most walking tours take you through Old Town and along the Royal Mile. Some tours include skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle or access to underground vaults, while others stay above ground, so always check what’s included before booking.
Queues and security: On tours with castle entry, you may upgrade your ticket to include skip the line entry, but security checks still apply. Arrive a little early and keep bags small, especially in busy Old Town areas, to stay with your group easily.
When to book: Walking tours in Edinburgh can sell out quickly during summer and evening time slots. Booking one to three weeks in advance is recommended, especially for castle entry tours and popular night ghost walks.
Best time windows: Morning tours work best if you want to focus on history and castle visits. Evening tours are ideal for ghost stories and atmospheric walks through Old Town when the streets are quieter.
Accessibility and terrain: Expect cobblestone streets, slopes, and stairs across much of the city. Some castle and underground ghost tours are not wheelchair friendly, so be sure to check accessibility details before booking.
Weather plan: Tours usually go ahead in light rain. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes as Edinburgh’s stone streets can become slippery when wet.
Ghost tour age rules: For safety reasons, ghost tours have age restrictions. Guests under 18 are not allowed on the 1-hour walking tour, and guests under 5 are not allowed on the 2-hour tour. Always review the full restrictions before booking your tickets.
Walk through Old Town and along the Royal Mile with a guide, then enjoy skip-the-line entry and a guided introduction to Edinburgh Castle before exploring on your own.
First-time visitors who want history, stories, and castle entry in one tour
A 2-hour evening walk through Old Town and Blair Street Underground Vaults with chilling true stories, ending with a drink in candlelit Megget’s Cellar.
Adults looking for a spooky, story-led night experience
A focused 45-minute guided tour of Edinburgh Castle grounds, covering history, traditions, and highlights, with free time afterward to explore independently.
Travelers short on time who still want expert castle insights
Follow J.K. Rowling’s Edinburgh inspirations on foot, visiting Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street, and more, with themed activities and trivia along the way.
Harry Potter fans who want a fun, interactive city walk
A small-group walking experience along the Royal Mile that can be combined with castle entry, offering deeper storytelling and a slower, more personal pace.
Visitors who prefer smaller groups and a more relaxed walking pace
Everything you can see on an Edinburgh walking tour
Royal Mile
Wander the heart of Old Town, slipping down narrow closes and hidden corners that buses and cars cannot reach. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, spot centuries-old architecture, and really feel the rhythm of the city.
Edinburgh Castle
Walking around the castle grounds gives you views and details you just cannot get from afar. Step into Edinburgh's most famous castle and learn about battles, traditions like the One O’Clock Gun, and the secrets hidden in the fortress walls.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
What’s a visit to one of Europe’s spookiest cities without stepping into its haunting graveyards? Stroll past weathered headstones and towering monuments as your guide reveals local legends and unsettling stories rarely mentioned in guidebooks.
Blair Street Underground Vaults
Descend into hidden underground vaults accessible only on foot. Explore narrow, shadowy spaces while listening to actual stories of crime, mystery, and restless spirits that once haunted Edinburgh’s streets.
Megget’s Cellar
Famed as a hotspot on Edinburgh ghost tours, Megget’s Cellar is a candlelit historic cellar where chilling tales unfold over a whisky, local beer, or soft drink. It’s the perfect place to end your spooky adventure and linger in the eerie atmosphere.
Harry Potter filming spots
If your tour includes famous Harry Potter filming locations, walk in J.K. Rowling’s footsteps through the streets, graveyards, and hidden alleys that inspired the books, including the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley.
Plan your visit to Edinburgh walking tours
Most Edinburgh walking tours start in the morning, but exact times depend on the tour you choose.
Daytime tours: Royal Mile walks, Edinburgh Castle tours, and Harry Potter tours usually run from 9 am to 1 pm.
Evening tours: After-dark ghostly night walking tour starts in the evening to give you the full spooky experience.
Daytime tours: Morning or early afternoon is best for history walks, castle tours, and Harry Potter walks when streets are quieter.
Evening tours: Ghost and underground vault tours are at their most atmospheric after dark.
Seasonal tips: Summer (June to September) is the busiest, with long daylight hours and lively streets, while spring (March to May) or shoulder seasons offer a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Tours usually meet at central points along the Royal Mile.
Address: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, United Kingdom
By train: ScotRail to Edinburgh Waverley (approx. 0.3 km)
By bus: 100 (Airlink), Airport Express, Perrymans 51/52, First Bus X95, 23, 27, 41, 42; nearest stops: Edinburgh Waverley Bridge Stop WA, North Bridge, George IV Bridge
By tram: Edinburgh Trams, nearest stop St Andrew’s Square
By car: Via North Bridge and High Street; nearby parking at Blair Street, Cowgate, Blackfriars Street, Chambers Street
Audio devices: Some tours include personal audio systems for clearer storytelling.
Restrooms: Public toilets and cafés are available along the Royal Mile.
Guidebooks: Optional souvenir guides may be offered on select tours.
Wheelchair access: Only outdoor Royal Mile tours are fully wheelchair-friendly. Vault tours are not accessible.
Assistance dogs: Guide dogs are welcome on all tours.
Walking aids: Some tours allow sticks or portable seating if requested in advance.
Visitor tips for Edinburgh walking tours
Pick the right tour for you: Think about what excites you most. If you love history and castle stories, the Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle tours are perfect. If spooky tales and underground vaults sound thrilling, go for the ghost or after-dark tours. If you are a Potterhead, do not miss the Harry Potter guided walking tour.
Plan your timing: Morning or early afternoon is best for history walks, castle tours, and Harry Potter tours when streets are quieter and easier to explore. Evening tours are perfect for ghost walks and underground adventures, as the darkness makes the stories even more atmospheric.
Soak up the city afterward: After your tour, wander the Royal Mile at your own pace. Stop at cafés, historic pubs, or quirky shops, and keep an eye out for hidden stories, street performances, and interesting corners you might have missed on the tour.
Ask questions: Small-group tours are perfect for chatting with your guide. Don’t hesitate to ask about legends, local history, or fun Edinburgh trivia. It makes the experience more personal, memorable, and a lot more fun.
Frequently asked questions about walking tours in Edinburgh
Most tours are around 1 to 2 hours. Ghost walks are shorter, castle tours a bit longer, and some combined tours can go over 2 hours.
Tours usually start near the Royal Mile or other central spots. Aim to be there 10–15 minutes early to meet your guide and get settled.
Your ticket covers the guided tour and any included attractions, like Edinburgh Castle or the Blair Street Vaults. Food, drinks (except on the ghost tour), and transport aren’t included.
Tours leave on time, so arriving late usually means you’ll miss the group. Try to be on time to get the full experience.
You’ll cover about 2–3 km at a relaxed pace, with plenty of stops for stories, photos, and sightseeing.
That depends on your tour. Some tours take you inside Edinburgh Castle or the underground vaults. Others focus on the streets and landmarks outside.
Some areas, like underground vaults and steep streets, aren’t wheelchair or stroller accessible. Check the tour details before booking.
Yes, most tours work for all ages. Ghost tours have age rules though: under 18 can’t do the 1-hour tours, and under 5 can’t join the 2-hour tours.
Morning is perfect for castle visits and history walks. Evening is great for ghost tours and atmospheric Old Town strolls.
Yes, sometimes streets are closed or events happen. Guides adjust the route so you still get the best experience.
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.
Large bags, rucksacks and suitcases (30L or over) are not allowed inside the castle for security reasons.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with cardiac issues.
Complimentary admission is offered to carers accompanying a paying visitor.
If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel or upon arrival at your destination.
Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
Inclusions
#
90-mins walking tour of Royal Mile and Old Town
Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle
45-min introduction to Edinburgh Castle
Live English-speaking guide
Exclusive multi-sensory experience delivered through TourTalk audio devices
Exclusions
#
Transportation between attractions
Food and drinks
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 18 years are not allowed on the 1-hour walking tour, and guests under the age of 5 years are not allowed on the 2-hour walking tour.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with claustrophobia.
Students and senior citizens aged 60 and above enjoy reduced prices on their tickets.
Inclusions
#
2-hour guided walking tour in the evening of Blair Street Underground Vaults and Old Town
Entry to Blair Street Underground Vaults
A glass of Ballantine's Finest Scotch Whisky, Skeleton Blues hazy IPA, or Scottish-made soft drinks at Megget’s cellar
English-speaking guide
Exclusive multi-sensory experience delivered through TourTalk audio devices
Exclusions
#
Hotel transfers
Transportation
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID if requested at the entrance.
Download the audio app before reaching the meeting point to dodge any network glitches at the location. Simply scan the QR code on your voucher and follow the instructions to download the Vox City app and the city map in your preferred language. If you encounter any problems, contact customer@voxcity.com or contact customer support live 24/7 through the website.
Carry your earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.
What’s not allowed
Luggage, large bags, and bags over 30L in volume are not permitted inside Edinburgh Castle.
Due to venue restrictions, your pets are not permitted.
Drones are strictly prohibited on the premises.
Access to the roof is not permitted in poor weather conditions.
Accessibility
The experience is not fully wheelchair-accessible due to uneven terrain and steps within the castle grounds and surrounding areas.
Additional information
The guided tour takes place outdoors around Edinburgh Castle. Entry to interior buildings is not included during the guided portion, but you may explore them independently after the tour.
Specific stops during the tour are assigned by castle authorities and may vary.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult to join the tour.
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10-15 mins before your scheduled start time.
If Edinburgh Castle is unexpectedly closed on the day of your visit, tickets to Holyrood Palace will be provided instead if available.
Meeting points may vary by tour. Ensure you check your booking confirmation for details.
Please note the Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels) will be closed from January 12 to Easter in 2026.
Inclusions
#
Entry to Edinburgh Castle
45-min express guided tour of Edinburgh Castle (outside the castle)
Free time for independent exploration of Edinburgh Castle
Expert local English-speaking guide
Edinburgh city audio tour (digital app)
Additional paid upgrades:
1.5-hour extended guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
2.15-hour guided tour of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle
Small group of max. 20 guests
15% discount on Edinburgh Gin Distillery experiences (subject to availability; see voucher for details)
Exclusions
#
Headset and mobile device
Edinburgh Castle internal audio guide (£3.50)
Transportation
Gratuities
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tip: Keep an eye out for the loyal dog statue commemorating Greyfriars Bobby at Greyfriars Kirkyard.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a moderate amount of walking.
Carry warm clothing as nights can get chilly.
Inclusions
#
Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour
English-speaking guide
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Stroll through the parts of Edinburgh that inspired the Harry Potter books
Go on a 2-hour guided tour through J.K. Rowling's inspiration in Edinburgh, complete with real-life sightings of her book's iconic landmarks.
Hear interesting anecdotes about J.K Rowling’s life and her inspirations and feel the book come to life with a visit to Tom Riddle's grave.
Delve into the story of George Heriot’s School, considered to be the inspiration for Hogwarts, while walking through Edinburgh’s streets.
Step beyond just seeing – get sorted into your Hogwarts House, and test your Potter knowledge with an engaging audio-visual quiz.
Inclusions
#
2-hour Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh
English-speaking guide
William Chambers Monument
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Potterrow
Victoria Street
Grassmarket
Royal Mile, Edinburgh
253 High St, Edinburgh, UK
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.
Walking Tours
NaN
Secrets of the Royal Mile Tour and Entrance to Edinburgh Castle
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.
Large bags, rucksacks and suitcases (30L or over) are not allowed inside the castle for security reasons.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with cardiac issues.
Complimentary admission is offered to carers accompanying a paying visitor.
If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel or upon arrival at your destination.
Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
2 hr. 15 min.
Guided tour
Guided Tours
NaN
Edinburgh: After-Dark Ghostly Night Walking Tour
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 18 years are not allowed on the 1-hour walking tour, and guests under the age of 5 years are not allowed on the 2-hour walking tour.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with claustrophobia.
Students and senior citizens aged 60 and above enjoy reduced prices on their tickets.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
2 hr.
Guided Tours
NaN
Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID if requested at the entrance.
Download the audio app before reaching the meeting point to dodge any network glitches at the location. Simply scan the QR code on your voucher and follow the instructions to download the Vox City app and the city map in your preferred language. If you encounter any problems, contact customer@voxcity.com or contact customer support live 24/7 through the website.
Carry your earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.
What’s not allowed
Luggage, large bags, and bags over 30L in volume are not permitted inside Edinburgh Castle.
Due to venue restrictions, your pets are not permitted.
Drones are strictly prohibited on the premises.
Access to the roof is not permitted in poor weather conditions.
Accessibility
The experience is not fully wheelchair-accessible due to uneven terrain and steps within the castle grounds and surrounding areas.
Additional information
The guided tour takes place outdoors around Edinburgh Castle. Entry to interior buildings is not included during the guided portion, but you may explore them independently after the tour.
Specific stops during the tour are assigned by castle authorities and may vary.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult to join the tour.
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10-15 mins before your scheduled start time.
If Edinburgh Castle is unexpectedly closed on the day of your visit, tickets to Holyrood Palace will be provided instead if available.
Meeting points may vary by tour. Ensure you check your booking confirmation for details.
Please note the Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels) will be closed from January 12 to Easter in 2026.