Our website uses cookies.

Edinburgh Private Tours

Discover 1550 private tours and guides in Edinburgh

Most popular private tours in Edinburgh

The 10 Best Edinburgh Private Tours

1
The Harry Potter Trail: Private Walking Tour

This private Harry Potter-themed tour offers an intimate and personalized journey through Edinburgh, often regarded as the city where JK Rowling laid the foundations for her famed series. Unlike larger group tours, this customizable experience ensures you can go at your own pace, ask your knowledgeable guide as many questions as you like, and alter the itinerary.

The tour kicks off at the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, where Rowling found inspiration in the names on the gravestones. Next, you'll visit Potterrow, a part of the city which seems to bear the titular character's name. Your journey continues to the National Museum of Scotland, and the nearby Balmoral Hotel, where Rowling completed the series. 

The tour then proceeds to The Elephant House, a cafe that calls itself the "birthplace" of Harry Potter. Finally, you'll stroll down Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh's most notable avenues, recognized as the real-life equivalent of Diagon Alley. 

2
Heritage of Edinburgh: Private Tour with Historian Guide

Immerse yourself in a half or full-day private walking tour through the historical and cultural marvels of Edinburgh. This intimate tour offers you the full attention of your guide, who has deep roots in the city. Starting from the magnificent Usher Hall, you’ll navigate Edinburgh's cultural landmarks according to your interests, with your guide illuminating your journey with riveting insights.

Delve into the city's history by exploring the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh, both regarded as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Gain a panoramic view from Calton Hill, stroll along the Royal Mile or visit the iconic Scott Monument, dedicated to the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. You can admire the impressive Edinburgh Castle from below, or opt to visit at an additional cost. Pass by the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the British monarch, or enter for an additional fee.

On this private tour, you will benefit from your guide’s wealth of intimate knowledge. Should you wish, you can even request hotel pickup and drop-off. 

 

3
Half-Day Private City Tour in a Mini-Cooper

See the top sights in Edinburgh in a matter of hours on this zippy Mini Cooper tour. From the comfort of this perfectly sized vehicle, ideal for navigating Edinburgh’s labyrinthine streets, you can enjoy a private and customizable excursion through the city. 

Ascend to the peak of Arthur’s Seat and soak in panoramic views spanning the entire city. Significant landmarks, such as Holyroodhouse Palace and the formidable Edinburgh Castle, enhance the scenic vista. As you descend into the city, your guide will drive you to the legendary Royal Mile and the historic Grassmarket, providing live commentary along the way.

Continuing the journey, explore the coastal neighborhood of Leith, taking a moment to peek into Scotland's oldest pub and admire the balancing stones of Dean Village. Embark on a scenic walk along Leith's waterfront, where your guide will reveal hidden attractions and favorite local spots typically overlooked by tourists. End the adventure by indulging in some traditional Scottish cuisine

4
Greyfriars Kirkyard at Night: Historic Cemetery Private Tour

Embark on a unique, interactive tour of Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, exploring the captivating stories of those who rest beneath its grounds. This nighttime adventure is perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking a private tour with a twist.

Delve into rich tales of murder, loss, bodysnatchers and Covenanters. An advanced projector enhances the experience, illuminating the cemetery's hidden corners and bringing the landmark to life. The kirkyard is home to a variety of ornate mausoleums, monuments, and tombstones, many of which date back several centuries. 

The site is notable for being the location of the 1638 National Covenant signing, a critical event in Scottish history, and for its association with Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog who reportedly guarded his master's grave for 14 years. Through this journey, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Edinburgh's profound heritage.

5
Whisky Tasting Trio: Private Tour of Three Distilleries

Experience the allure of Scotland's whisky culture without the worries of driving. This private tour ensures a personalized journey with the benefit of pickup from your accommodation or straight from the airport. Your knowledgeable guide will chauffeur you to three renowned distilleries, where you will partake in whisky tastings and learn about the intricate process behind the creation of this celebrated spirit. 

Begin your tour at The Macallan Distillery, where a guided tour or tasting awaits. You'll also explore the distillery's impressive shop and exquisite bar. Next, head to the Glenfiddich Distillery, home to arguably the most popular whisky globally. Your final stop is The Glenlivet Distillery, one of the world's oldest, where you'll learn more about whisky's intriguing history. 

Each distillery visit includes the opportunity to tour the distillery or participate in an expert-led bar tasting, based on availability. Should a location be unavailable, an equivalent experience is substituted to ensure a rich and immersive whisky excursion.

6
Top 10 Tastes of Edinburgh with Locals: Private Food Tour

Go on a personalized culinary journey through the heart of Edinburgh. Tailor this private food tour to your palate, and uncover hidden cafes and distinctive restaurants with the expert help of your local guide. This bespoke tour offers a deep dive into the capital city's gastronomic scene, and an excellent opportunity to gather food recommendations for the remainder of your stay.

The adventure commences in Grassmarket, where you will partake in 10 handpicked food and drink tastings, curated by your host who possesses an intimate knowledge of the city's food landscape. Experience authentic flavors with classic Scottish treats such as whisky and haggis. 

In between tastings, you will uncover Edinburgh's cultural gems like the John Knox House Museum, blending history and gastronomy for a well-rounded exploration of the city. Concluding the tour at Lady Stairs House, a 17th-century townhouse now hosting the Scottish Writers' Museum, your journey spans a range of tastes and tales.

7
Kingdom of Fife & St. Andrews Full-Day Private Tour

Venture through the Kingdom of Fife with the ease of a private tour, exclusively designed for your group and tailored to your interests. With hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Edinburgh hotel or port, travel comfortably in an air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, offering ample space for your enjoyment and ensuring a personalized experience.

The journey begins with a brief stop at South Queensferry to admire the breathtaking views of the Forth Bridge. Following this, make a visit to the historic Falkland Palace. Golf enthusiasts are in for a treat as you reach The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, viewing the renowned fairways and crossing the world-famous Swilken Bridge. 

Further exploration of St. Andrews includes the castle and cathedral, where an optional tour inside the monument can be arranged. The excursion through Fife continues with a visit to the picturesque village of Pittenweem and Anstruther Harbour, a local fishing port reputedly home to the best fish and chip shop in the world.

8
Central Highlands Private Driving Tour

Experience the serenity of the central Highlands on a private day trip from Edinburgh. This tour will lead you through picturesque landscapes and historic villages while your local guide handles all the driving. With the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your personal interests, you can turn this into the dream Highlands excursion. 

The day starts with an opportunity to view Stirling Castle before stopping in the charming town of Callander, often referred to as the "entrance to the Highlands." Enjoy a peaceful stroll by Loch Lubnaig and discover more of the region's natural beauty at the Falls of Dochart in Killin. As a culinary highlight, there's an excellent local smokehouse nearby serving up delectable salmon.

In Kenmore, you'll discover the charms of this Highland village located near Loch Tay. A detour to Falkirk to admire the impressive Kelpies sculptures rounds off the day. Alternatively, opt to include a whisky tasting or tour for a full Scottish experience. 

9
Private Tour of the Outlander TV Series Filming Locations

Journey into the captivating world of Outlander on this private day trip, exploring Scotland's renowned TV filming locations. Leaving from Edinburgh, you will be guided through the scenic Highland areas featured prominently in the popular series. Throughout the trip, you will delve into trivia, stories, and behind-the-scenes tales.

Your odyssey commences with a morning pick-up from your hotel. Set off to traverse the wild Highlands alongside your knowledgeable guide, learning about the popular Starz series. First, you'll visit the 13th-century Doune Castle, the real-life stand-in for Castle Leoch, home of Clan Mackenzie. Next, explore the historic 15th-century village of Culross, used in the series as Cranesmuir. You'll have a chance to admire the Herb Garden, Mercat Square, and winding cobbled streets. 

The tour continues to Falkland, which doubles as Inverness in the series, and Dysart, which represents Le Havre. Finally, you'll visit Aberdour Castle and Gardens, which were portrayed as Sainte Anne de Beaupré's monastery in the show.

10
Loch Ness & Glencoe Private Luxury Day Tour

Unearth the splendor of the Scottish Highlands within the span of a single day and visit two of the region’s most famous locations — Loch Ness and Glencoe. This private tour from Edinburgh provides you with your guide's undivided attention for a personalized experience steeped in history and culture. 

You'll have ample opportunity for sightseeing, beginning with an awe-inspiring visit to the Forth Bridges, UNESCO-recognized marvels of engineering. En route, you'll pass by Linlithgow Palace and the magnificent Kelpies Monument. Further along, you'll glimpse Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument.

Your journey continues with a visit to the picturesque Trossachs region, where you may have the chance to feed Highland cows. The scenic tour proceeds to Glencoe Valley and the Three Sisters, providing breathtaking vistas of Scotland's landscapes. You'll then continue on to Fort Augustus, located at the southern end of the enigmatic Loch Ness. Spotting an underwater monster may well be the highlight of the trip!

Looking for more tours?