From Chocolate to Castles: A Guide to Edinburgh’s Best Tours

Welcome to Edinburgh, a city where ancient history, majestic castles, and magical stories come to life on every cobblestone street. Known for its medieval Old Town and dramatic skyline, Scotland’s historic capital is more than just a beautiful city—it’s remnants of a past kingdom. This guide is your key to an unforgettable trip in the city. All the experiences listed below can be found and booked on Dyvarcity, a platform with thousands of adventures around the world.

Chocolate Making & Tasting: A Sweet Adventure

Head into Edinburgh’s historic Old Town for this delicious 90-minute tour. You’ll learn all about how chocolate is made before getting to the best part: making your own unique chocolate bar to take home! Afterward, you’ll get to sample over 30 different chocolates from around the world, with some truly unique flavors like haggis and chili chocolate. It’s a fun and tasty experience that’s perfect for all ages.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is a fantastic activity for families and groups, especially on a rainy day. You get to create a unique, edible souvenir and taste some of the most unusual chocolate flavors you’ll ever find.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is a small group activity with a maximum of 16 travelers.
    • It’s suitable for ages 6 and up.
    • The location is in Edinburgh’s Old Town, near public transportation.
    • Note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Harry Potter’s Edinburgh: A Private Magical Tour

For any fan of the boy wizard, this private, customizable walking tour is a must. An entertaining guide, easily spotted in a black cloak, will lead you through the city’s maze-like streets, bringing the magical history of Edinburgh to life. Unlike rushed group tours, you can go at your own pace and ask all of your burning Harry Potter questions. The tour ends on Victoria Street, a location many fans will recognize.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This personalized tour guarantees an unforgettable experience. With a guide dedicated just to your group, you can truly dive into the details and stories that make Edinburgh the birthplace of the boy wizard.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
    • It is a private tour, so only your group will participate.
    • The tour is suitable for children of all ages.
    • The guide will be wearing a black cloak!
    • The tour ends near the starting location, just a two-minute walk away.

Edinburgh Castle: A Skip-the-Line Walking Tour

Experience one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks without the stress on this guided walking tour of Edinburgh Castle. You’ll join your guide for a walk up the Royal Mile, learning about the castle’s history and key figures along the way. Once inside, you’ll skip the long line and get to explore the one o’clock gun, the dungeons, and other main buildings with in-depth commentary that brings the past to life.

Why It’s a Must-Do: As one of Scotland’s most popular attractions, the lines for Edinburgh Castle can be long. This tour not only helps you skip the queue, but also provides a much richer, more meaningful visit with an expert guide.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is 1.5 hours long and requires a moderate fitness level due to steep and uneven ground.
    • The tour does NOT meet at the castle. The starting point is on the Royal Mile (192 High Street), identifiable by a green and white umbrella.
    • The tour operates in all weather, so dress appropriately.
    • Large bags (over 30L) are not permitted inside the castle.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Day Trip to Glasgow: Celtic Park Stadium Tour

For any football fan, a trip to Glasgow’s Celtic Park Stadium is a must-do. On this 60-minute behind-the-scenes tour, you’ll get to walk in the footsteps of legends. Peek inside the dressing rooms, stroll through the player’s tunnel, and sit in the dugout. Your guide will share secrets and stories about Scotland’s most popular football team, giving you an insider’s look at the home of Celtic FC.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the ultimate experience for any football enthusiast. It’s a chance to see behind the scenes of Scotland’s largest stadium and get a feel for the history and passion of one of the country’s most legendary clubs. It makes for a fantastic day trip from Edinburgh.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is 60 minutes long, but the route can change without notice as it’s a working stadium.
    • Celtic Park is a cashless venue, so bring a credit or debit card for any purchases.
    • Avoid bringing large bags, as there are no left luggage facilities.
    • The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
    • The meeting point is the Sports Bar, accessible via the Kerrydale Suite entrance.

Highlands Day Trip: The Harry Potter Train & More

Leave the city behind for a full-day tour of the stunning Scottish Highlands. In a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, you’ll be driven to historic sights like Stirling Castle and Linlithgow Palace. Your guide will share stories and point out famous movie locations, including those from James Bond and Harry Potter. The highlight? You’ll get to see the famous Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct—a must for any fan of the boy wizard.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the easiest and most stress-free way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and historic sites in one day. You’ll get a true taste of the Highlands and have the perfect photo opportunity with the famous “Harry Potter train.”

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is a long day of driving, so it’s a good idea to bring medication if you suffer from travel sickness.
    • The Jacobite Steam Train runs seasonally (from April 7 to October 24, 2025).
    • The tour departs from Charlotte Square at 8:15 AM sharp.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
    • The tour group size is large, with a maximum of 57 travelers.

Whisky & Folklore: An Authentic Scottish Tasting

Experience one of Scotland’s greatest traditions with this whisky tasting tour. Held in a bespoke whisky lounge just off the Royal Mile, you’ll sample four single malt whiskies from different regions of Scotland. Your expert guide is also a local storyteller who will share tales and folklore, making this much more than just a tasting—it’s a deep dive into Scottish culture.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the quintessential Scottish experience. It’s a fun and informative way to learn about the nation’s most famous export while hearing captivating stories from a local guide. It’s perfect for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Edinburgh.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is for travelers aged 18 and up.
    • The meeting point is inside Hot Toddy on Jeffrey Street. Arrive at least 15 minutes early.
    • You must book the “Whisky & Folklore” ticket option to have drinks included.
    • Drink alternatives are available upon request for those who don’t drink whisky.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

3-Day Isle of Skye & Highlands Adventure

Don’t have much time but want to see the best of Scotland’s natural beauty? This 3-day tour from Edinburgh is the perfect solution. You’ll journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, seeing historic sites like Dunkeld Cathedral and Eilean Donan Castle, and natural wonders like Loch Ness and the summit of Ben Nevis. The highlight is a full exploration of the magical Isle of Skye. The tour includes two nights of accommodation, breakfasts, and transport with a local guide, so all you have to do is enjoy the view.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the ideal way to get a comprehensive overview of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and history in just three days, all without the stress of planning or driving. It’s an unforgettable trip to some of the country’s most famous and beautiful places.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour departs from 60 High Street at 7:45 AM. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
    • There is a strict luggage limit: a maximum of one suitcase (33lbs/15kg) and one carry-on bag per person.
    • Children under the age of 5 are not permitted on the tour.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated if the traveler has an assistant.
    • The tour returns to Edinburgh at approximately 8 PM during April and October.

Private Highlands Tour: Luxury, Castles & Lochs

See Scotland’s dramatic landscapes in style with this private, full-day tour from Edinburgh. You’ll travel in a luxury minivan, complete with leather seats and USB charging ports, while your expert guide takes you to the best of the Highlands. Stops include the famous Doune Castle (a filming location for Game of Thrones) and scenic Glencoe, as well as the chance to meet some adorable Highland cows! This tour is all about exploring the stunning scenery at your own pace.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the ultimate way to experience the Highlands. The tour is exclusive to your group, so it can be completely tailored to your interests. With a knowledgeable local guide and luxurious transport, it’s a stress-free and unforgettable day of exploring Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

Tips & Info:

• • • This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.
    • The tour includes complimentary refreshments.
    • The vehicle is stroller accessible, and infant seats are available upon request.
    • The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Edinburgh Food Tour: Haggis, Whisky & More

Come hungry for this small-group walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. A local foodie guide will lead you on a delicious journey to discover why Edinburgh locals are so passionate about their food. You’ll get to sample authentic Scottish classics like haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as Scotch whisky, afternoon tea, and a delicious “secret dish” along the way!

Why It’s a Must-Do: This is the perfect way to explore Edinburgh’s famous food scene. The small group size (maximum 10 people) gives you a personalized experience, and trying a wide variety of local dishes with a knowledgeable guide is an unforgettable way to taste Scotland.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour is a walking experience, so wear comfortable shoes.
    • The guide will be carrying an orange umbrella at the meeting spot outside St Giles Cathedral.
    • The minimum drinking age is 18 for the whisky tasting.
    • The tour may not be able to accommodate all dietary restrictions, so contact them prior to booking if you have concerns.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

5-Day Isle of Skye & Highlands Explorer Tour

If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in Scotland’s natural beauty, this 5-day tour is for you. Departing from Edinburgh, you’ll spend nearly a week exploring the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and the mystical Isle of Skye. The tour takes you through mighty Glen Coe, to historic sites like Culloden Battlefield and ancient castles, and even includes a whisky distillery tour! With four nights of accommodation and breakfast included, this is the perfect way to explore Scotland in depth.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This tour is a comprehensive, deep dive into Scotland’s history and stunning landscapes. Unlike shorter trips, the five-day duration allows you to truly explore the Isle of Skye and the Highlands without feeling rushed, making it a perfect adventure for anyone wanting a complete Scottish experience.

Tips & Info:

• • • The tour departs at 8:30 AM from 60 High Street on the Royal Mile. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
    • There is a strict luggage limit: a maximum of one suitcase (33lbs/15kg) and one carry-on bag per person.
    • Children under the age of 5 are not permitted on the tour.
    • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
    • The maximum group size is 34 travelers.

Is it Adventure Time Yet?!

From creating your own chocolate to exploring the Highlands, Edinburgh is packed with adventures. Harry Potter fans, history lovers, foodies, and explorers all have experiences waiting in store– you can also find and book all these experiences and countless more tours and events around the world on Dyvarcity. Make the most out of your time in Edinburgh. Be safe and have fun— happy travels!