Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous and most visited sights in Scotland. Don't miss this guided tour of Edinburgh Castle if you find yourself in town! Discover the history and secrets behind this famous location that sits atop a now-dormant volcano.
Edinburgh Castle Tour: Scotland's Symbol
From its foundation if the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed many battles, political mysteries, and crucial events for Scotland's destiny. Every corner has a unique and captivating story, from the imposing Great Hall to the mysterious Stone of Destiny.
What Will We Visit With the Guide?
At the designated time, we'll meet at the Royal Mile at the scheduled time, just outside St. Giles's Cathedral. From there, we'll walk to Edinburgh Castle, situated atop an extinct volcano. Upon arrival, you'll be struck by the majestic views of the city center. Before entering the fortress, we'll share all the details about the castle with you and hand out your tickets.
The guided tour of Edinburgh Castle offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond merely exploring its impressive structures and views. An English-speaking guide will dive into the historical and cultural aspects, bringing to life the stories and legends surrounding the castle and its surroundings.
Edinburgh Castle is a citadel comprising over 20 buildings. Therefore, the guided tour takes place within the citadel grounds, where the guide will explain the significance of each building while standing in front of them, rather than entering the interiors.
What Can We Visit On Our Own?
After the guided tour, you can visit the most emblematic places of Edinburgh Castle on your own, among which the following stand out:
- The oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, St.Margaret's Chapel (built around 1130).
- The Crown Square, the castle's main courtyard, from here, we'll be able to see the Great Hall and its spectacular collection of weapons and armour.
- The Scottish National War Memorial honors the Scottish soldiers and marines who lost their lives in World War I, World War II, and later military conflicts since 1945.
- The Royal Palace. Did you know that James Stuart, son of Mary Stuart, was born in one of these royal rooms?
- The Crown Jewels, a strongroom housing the jewels used to crown the kings of Scotland during the Middle Ages.
- The Stone of Destiny, one of the relics of the kingdom of Scotland.
Within the walls of the palace, we'll also be able to see the vault that houses the Scottish crown jewels, called the Honours of Scotland, as well as the Stone of Destiny, on which kings were crowned during the Middle Ages.
After 1.5 hours, the guided tour will finish up in the vicinity of the castle.
Ticket to Edinburgh Castle
If you choose to book a tour without a ticket, you'll need to purchase your own ticket. Make sure that the ticket is valid for the same time and day that you have booked your guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. We recommend buying your ticket well in advance, especially in high season. This option is not for those who only wish to visit the outside of the castle, as the tour outside the castle walls is only available for a short period of time. If you do not have a ticket, you won't be able to join this tour.
Please note that the option without tickets is only for those who have purchased or will purchase tickets by other means or have an Explorer Pass. All others must choose the option with a ticket.
