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When to go on Edinburgh walking tours?

Edinburgh walking tour timings

Each Edinburgh walking tour has its own schedule, with different start times and frequencies depending on the type of experience. Here's a rough overview of the main tours to help you plan your visit.

Secrets of the Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle

  • First departure: Mornings, mostly around 9–10 am
  • Last departure: Afternoon, mostly around 1 pm
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes 

Seasonal notes: Operates year-round. Peak summer months may be busier, but tours run every day. There's time for exploration of the Edinburgh Castle after the guided tour.

After-Dark Ghostly Night Walking Tour

  • First departure: Evenings, around 4–5 pm
  • Last departure: Roughly around 9 pm
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Seasonal notes: Tours run year-round. Winter darkness can make the experience even spookier.

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour

  • First departure: Morning, roughly around 9–10 am
  • Last departure: Mostly, mid-afternoon,
  • Duration: 45 minutes guided, with optional free time afterward

Seasonal notes: Operates year-round. There's free time for independent exploration after the guided portion.

Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour

  • First departure: Afternoon, roughly around 1–3 pm
  • Last departure: Evening, roughly around 6–7 pm
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Seasonal notes: Runs year-round. Later evening tours offer darker, spookier conditions for atmosphere.

Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour

  • Start times: Morning to early afternoon, typically 10 am–1 pm
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Seasonal notes: Operates year-round. Morning departures offer quieter streets for photos and a more relaxed walking pace.

Best time to go on Edinburgh walking tours

  • Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures and longer daylight, making it a comfortable time to explore on foot. Streets are less crowded than summer, and historic areas feel lively.
  • Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak season in Edinburgh. Warm weather and long daylight hours are perfect for walking tours, especially during festival season in August.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers cooler air and fewer crowds after the busy summer months. Early autumn is especially pleasant for walking tours, with good light for photos and a calmer pace through Old Town and the Royal Mile.
  • Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest season for walking tours. Ghost and evening tours feel more immersive in the darkness, while daytime walks suit visitors prepared for chilly weather.
  • Weekdays: Generally calmer, with smaller tour groups and fewer people on the streets. This is a good option if you prefer a relaxed pace and more interaction with your guide.
  • Weekends: Livelier, especially during summer and festival periods. Expect larger crowds along the Royal Mile and busier tour groups, but also a more energetic city atmosphere.
  • Morning: Morning tours are ideal for history walks, castle tours, and Harry Potter walks. Streets are quieter, temperatures are cooler, and lighting is great for photos.
  • Midday: Midday works well during summer thanks to long daylight hours, though popular routes can feel busy. Bring water and be prepared for crowds around major landmarks.
  • Evening: Evening is the best time for ghost and underground vault tours. Darkness adds drama and atmosphere, making stories feel more intense and immersive. Dress warmly, especially outside of summer.

How to plan your Edinburgh walking tours?

1 to 1.5 hours

This works well for shorter experiences like the Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour or a focused Edinburgh Castle guided tour. You will explore one main area, hear key stories, and still have time left to wander the Old Town on your own afterward.

2 to 2.5 hours

This is the sweet spot for most Edinburgh walking tours. You can comfortably do the Secrets of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, the After-Dark Ghostly Night Walking Tour, or the Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour. Expect a relaxed pace, plenty of storytelling, photo stops, and time to take it all in.

3 to 4 hours

With extra time, you can combine a walking tour with independent exploring. After a Royal Mile or castle tour, linger inside Edinburgh Castle, explore Greyfriars Kirkyard more deeply, or grab a coffee along the Royal Mile.

Full day

Do one main walking tour, then build around it. A morning history or Harry Potter walk followed by lunch, or an afternoon stroll through Old Town before an evening ghost tour, gives you a fuller feel of the city without rushing.

​Plan your Edinburgh walking tours

Frequently asked questions about Edinburgh walking tour timings

Do Edinburgh walking tours run year-round?

Yes. Edinburgh walking tours operate throughout the year. Most daytime history, castle, and Harry Potter tours run daily, while ghost and underground tours continue in all seasons, with schedules adjusted for daylight and demand.

What time do most Edinburgh walking tours start?

Most walking tours start in the morning or early afternoon, usually between 9am and 1pm. Evening-only departures are reserved for ghost and after-dark tours, which typically begin after sunset.

Can I join an Edinburgh walking tour after dark?

Yes. Ghost tours and underground vault tours are designed specifically for evening hours. Darkness adds atmosphere and storytelling impact, making night tours one of the most popular options in Edinburgh.

When are Edinburgh walking tours least crowded?

Weekday mornings outside of summer are usually the least crowded. Spring, autumn, and winter mornings offer smaller group sizes, quieter streets, and a more relaxed pace compared to weekends and festival periods.

Do I need to book Edinburgh walking tours in advance?

Booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance is strongly recommended, especially in summer and during festivals. Popular tours can sell out days ahead, and advance booking ensures your preferred time slot and tour type.

Are walking tour schedules affected by weather or holidays?

Most tours run in light rain and typical Scottish weather. Severe weather or major public holidays may affect timings or availability, so it’s best to check your booking details closer to your visit date.