Edinburgh’s Best Walking Tours: History, Food, and Ghosts

Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, with its cobbled streets, hidden closes, and rich history providing the perfect backdrop for immersive walking tours.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone who loves a good ghost story, there’s a walking tour tailored just for you. Here’s a guide to the best walking tours in Edinburgh that will leave you enchanted, educated, and maybe even a little spooked!

Historical Walking Tours

1. Mercat Tours – Historical Walking Tour
   Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town and learn about its fascinating past, from medieval times to the Enlightenment. This tour takes you through key landmarks such as St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle while bringing history to life with captivating storytelling.
2. City of the Dead Tours – Underground Edinburgh
   Take a journey beneath the city’s surface and explore the infamous South Bridge Vaults. Discover the lives of Edinburgh’s past residents and the dark secrets hidden within these historic chambers.
3. Free Walking Tour of Edinburgh
   A great option for budget-conscious travellers, these free tours (tip-based) offer an informative stroll through the city’s highlights, including the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Food and Drink Tours

1. Eat Walk Edinburgh
   Sample traditional Scottish delicacies, from haggis to whisky, as you explore some of the best food spots in the city. This guided experience introduces you to Edinburgh’s vibrant food scene while sharing insights into Scotland’s culinary history.
2. Scottish Whisky Experience Walking Tour
   Whisky lovers will enjoy this immersive tour, which visits historic pubs and whisky bars. Learn about Scotland’s national drink, sample different varieties, and discover the art of whisky tasting.
3. Secret Food Tours Edinburgh
   This tour takes you off the beaten path to discover hidden food gems in the city. From fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses, you’ll experience Edinburgh’s gastronomy like a local.

Ghost and Supernatural Tours

1. The Real Mary King’s Close
   Step into Edinburgh’s hidden streets and hear chilling tales of past residents who never truly left. This underground tour is one of the most famous ghost tours in the city.
2. Ghosts and Gore Walking Tour
   Led by costumed guides, this theatrical tour takes you through Edinburgh’s spookiest locations, recounting eerie stories of witches, body snatchers, and restless spirits.
3. Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Mackenzie Poltergeist
   Visit one of the most haunted graveyards in the world and learn about the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist. This tour is not for the faint of heart!

No matter what your interests are, Edinburgh offers a walking tour to suit every traveller. From uncovering the city’s deep-rooted history and indulging in its food scene to experiencing spine-chilling ghost stories, walking tours provide a unique and immersive way to explore Scotland’s capital. Book a stay with the Edinburgh Collection and make the most of your visit with a guided adventure through Edinburgh’s enchanting streets.

Take advantage of discounted tickets for the most sought-after tours and attractions in the city, designed to cater to every interest.

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