Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour

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Provided by: Scandic Tours
Duration
2 hours
Meeting point
The Scot Monument
Languages
English, French +1
From €0
Tip based
Free Booking. Free Cancellation.
No fixed price — pay what you feel the tour is worth.

Overview

Begin your walk at the towering Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott — Scotland’s most famous author.

Head east along Princes Street, then up the short but steep path to Calton Hill. See the National Monument (Scotland’s unfinished Parthenon), the Nelson Monument, and sweeping views of the Firth of Forth. This is one of Edinburgh’s top photography spots — you can see Arthur’s Seat, the Old Town skyline, and even the Castle.

Descend back toward the Old Town and walk up The Royal Mile. Along the way, take in narrow closes (alleyways), traditional shops, and centuries of history in the surrounding buildings. Stop for a coffee or whisky taster on Cockburn Street or St Mary’s Street.

Admire the crown-shaped steeple and stained-glass of St Giles’ Cathedral, and don’t miss the Thistle Chapel inside — home to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest chivalric order.

End your walk with the grand finale — perched atop Castle Rock, this fortress dominates the skyline. Inside you’ll find the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and St Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest surviving building in the city).
Tour Conditions
Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility
Minimum Attendees
No minimum attendees
Children
Suitable for families with children
Extra Fees
No additional cost
Pets
Not allowed
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This activity includes:

  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • St Margaret's Chapel
  • Royal Mile
  • Castle Rock Hostel
  • Calton Hill
  • National Monument of Scotland

Our Guides

Daniela — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Daniela
Hannah — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Hannah
Greg — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Greg
Georgia — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Georgia
Pedro — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Pedro
Charlie — Guide of Edinburgh Guided Old Town Free Tour, Scotland
Charlie

Meeting point

The Scot Monument

On arrival

Your guide will be waiting at the Scott Monument with a Scandic Tours sign.

How can the tour be free?

Our concept is simple — there is no set price. Instead, you tip your guide at the end of the tour whatever amount feels right to you. Typically, guests give between $10 to €50, depending on their satisfaction and budget.

Most guides accept cash or card payments, or you can do it via our app.

Rating
Organisation
2.0
Atmosphere
4.0
Content
2.0
Guide
3.0
Usefulness
2.0
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Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

Availability & Language
March 2026
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Today, 21 March 2026
english
english
10:00 AM
3:00 PM
spanish
spanish
10:00 AM
3:00 PM
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From €0 Tip based
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Tours Organized by Scandic Tours