Edinburgh Old Town

Tourist attraction
★ 4.9 (65K+ reviews) • 10K+ booked
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic charm of Edinburgh Old Town, the oldest part of Scotland's capital city. With its preserved medieval street plan and Reformation-era buildings, this area is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. Together with the New Town and West End, it forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city, is a must-see destination rich in history and things to do. Old Town Edinburgh, home to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, is the oldest part of the city with a unique character that captures the essence of Edinburgh. Explore the cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture and history. Step into the enchanting world of Edinburgh's Old Town, where history, culture, and charm collide to create a truly magical experience. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the vibrant food and drink scene, this district is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Discover the heart of the Scottish capital in the Old Town, where every cobblestone tells a story and every corner hides a secret.
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Edinburgh Old Town, Edinburgh, UK

The best of Edinburgh Old Town

Bucket-list experiences

Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

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★ 4.3 (3)
US$ 18.95
Edinburgh Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour

Edinburgh Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour

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★ 4.7 (6)
US$ 20.19
Witches Old Town & Underground Vault Tour in Edinburgh

Witches Old Town & Underground Vault Tour in Edinburgh

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★ 5.0 (3)
US$ 18.95
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Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour with an App

Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour with an App

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US$ 13.35
Old Town Beer Tour in Edinburgh

Old Town Beer Tour in Edinburgh

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US$ 58.09
Old Town and Underground Historical Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

Old Town and Underground Historical Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

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US$ 22.75
Klook Pass Edinburgh

Klook Pass Edinburgh

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★ 5.0 (2)
From US$ 65.65
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Evening Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

Evening Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

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US$ 21.49
Edinburgh Castle to Arthur's Seat Private and Custom Walking Tour

Edinburgh Castle to Arthur's Seat Private and Custom Walking Tour

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★ 5.0 (1)
US$ 106.95
Edinburgh Private Whisky Experience Tour with a Local Expert

Edinburgh Private Whisky Experience Tour with a Local Expert

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US$ 190.10
Edinburgh Private and Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie

Edinburgh Private and Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie

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US$ 219.15
Edinburgh Castle Tour

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Bestseller
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★ 4.7 (32)
US$ 44.19

Make it a getaway

Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

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★ 4.4 (1,139)
From US$ 88.32
Holiday Inn Express - Edinburgh City Centre, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express - Edinburgh City Centre, an IHG Hotel

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★ 4.3 (1,004)
From US$ 91.57
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

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★ 4.5 (1,402)
From US$ 102.59
W Edinburgh

W Edinburgh

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★ 4.6 (131)
From US$ 213.17
Novotel Edinburgh Centre

Novotel Edinburgh Centre

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★ 4.1 (1,001)
From US$ 91.27
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

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★ 4.6 (746)
From US$ 115.8
Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh

Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh

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★ 4.3 (1,000)
From US$ 101.95
DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre

DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre

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★ 4.3 (1,003)
From US$ 106.87
Eden Locke

Eden Locke

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★ 4.7 (1,145)
From US$ 93.67
Stewart by Heeton Concept

Stewart by Heeton Concept

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★ 4.4 (793)
From US$ 90.89
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

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★ 4.1 (1,466)
From US$ 83.55
Market Street Hotel

Market Street Hotel

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★ 4.8 (1,001)
From US$ 154.01

More to explore

Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Pass

Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Pass

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★ 4.8 (29)
US$ 22.75
The Royal Edinburgh Ticket

The Royal Edinburgh Ticket

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★ 4.9 (16)
US$ 87.10
Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus by Golden Tours

Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus by Golden Tours

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★ 4.5 (2)
From US$ 22.75
The Grand Ticket in Edinburgh

The Grand Ticket in Edinburgh

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From US$ 30.29

Why people love Edinburgh Old Town

4.9 /5
65K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Klook User
4 Dec
its a whole day tour. nice to see st andrews university and the ruins.
Klook User
27 Nov
Very informative and caring guide, despite the weather is not ideal, he still share many stories and make our trip fulfilling. His name is Alistar
Nilesh ****
24 Nov
it's a great trip to go in Scotland. you might skip cruise in Loch Lomond if you are taking the same in Loch Ness. but do take a cruise in 1 of the both (Loch Ness is a different trip though). Kelpies are great and Stirling Castle is amazing. do take the guided tour in Stirling. you will enjoy as the time to explore is sufficient at all the 3 spots.
2+
May *******
22 Nov
we had a lovely time on this walking tour! as potterheads, we learned so many fun facts about JK Rowling and what inspired her to write the books. nothing too extravagant but a nice little 2 hour walking tour to spend your day in Edinburgh
2+
Irdina *****
21 Nov
Great Trip! The guide is very friendly and helpful. He tells us stories along the way in a very cheerful tone. We went for a cruise and tour in storling castle which was amazing 👏 Definitely recommend this activity
2+
Irdina *****
21 Nov
Great Tour! The guide (Marcos) is super enthusiastic and passionate about edinburgh castle which he share all the history of it. Will definitely recommend it!
2+
Soong **********
21 Nov
It was a great trip to enjoy the Highlands and the cruise. Despite the long distance travel, there was sufficient stops for toilet and to stretch ourselves. I learned a lot of Scottish history from David who was a great guide and driver.
Irdina *****
20 Nov
Philip was a great tourguide for us! He literally brings us to other scenery places for a stop, taking extra pictures for us making it an unbelievable experience. He makes sure that our pictures still gets the sun. He is friendly and fun telling all sorts of stories along the way. Really recommend it
1+

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FAQs about Edinburgh Old Town

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Royal Mile

Explore the iconic Royal Mile, the main street of the Old Town that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. Wander through narrow closes and alleyways, visit St. Giles' Cathedral, the General Assembly Hall, and the National Museum of Scotland, and discover hidden underground vaults and passages.

Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop Castlehill, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views and a wealth of history to explore. Don't miss the Dog Cemetery and St Margaret’s Chapel.

National Museum Of Scotland

Explore the rich tapestry of Scotland's history at the National Museum of Scotland, where ancient artifacts and interactive exhibits bring the past to life. From geology to the industrial era, this museum is a journey through time.

Street Layout

The picturesque street layout of the Old Town showcases the historic development of the city, with the castle perched on a rocky crag and the main street running down a ridge. Explore the unique 'crag and tail' landform and discover the evolution of Edinburgh's urban design.

Residential Buildings

Experience some of the world's earliest 'high rise' residential buildings in the Old Town, dating back to the 16th century. Learn about the Great Fire of Edinburgh in 1824 and the subsequent reconstruction that led to the creation of underground spaces and vaults.

Archaeology

Delve into the archaeological history of the Old Town through excavations that have uncovered medieval tenements, 12th/13th-century deposits, and evidence of the city's development over the centuries. Gain insights into the past through ongoing archaeological work in the area.

Culture and History

Old Town Edinburgh is steeped in history, with landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, St Giles' Cathedral, and Greyfriars Kirkyard. Explore the rich cultural heritage of the city through its architecture, museums, and historic sites.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Edinburgh's Old Town with popular dishes like small plates at Mother India's Café, delightful cakes at Lovecrumbs, and contemporary fine dining at Timberyard. From traditional Scottish fare to modern culinary creations, the local cuisine is a feast for the senses.