Medieval Old Town: Private Half Day Highlights Tour

On this four hour walking tour of Edinburgh, you will discover some of the most important historical sites of Scotland, including the world-famous Royal Mile and a medieval labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways and tenements that comprise this UNESCO World Heritage site.

 - Walk through the iconic Royal Mile, discuss the history of Edinburgh's Old Town
 - Hear about many famous characters like Deacon Brodie and John Knox
 - Explore the imposing St Giles Cathedral
 - Learn the art history behind the masterpieces at the National Galleries of Scotland
 - Stand in awe of the stunning exteriors of Edinburgh Castle
 - Take a stroll down the beautiful Princes Street Gardens, passing by George Heriot’s School

The Medieval Labyrinth of Old Town
 
You will follow your expert guide into Old Town’s maze of streets and concealed courtyards, where you will learn about the city’s ‘closes’- cramped alleyways, and ‘wynds’ - narrow lanes between houses. Hear about the many characters who lived and died here, including Deacon Brodie, town councilman by day and master thief by night, who inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's novel The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Edinburgh Castle and Beyond

 Explore the imposing St Giles Cathedral - the cradle of the Scottish Reformation during the 16th century - and the world-famous National Galleries of Scotland, which houses many stunning paintings from the Old Masters including Da Vinci, Titian, and Rembrandt.
A tour of Edinburgh would not be complete without learning about Scotland’s most famous historic attraction: Edinburgh Castle. Hear about the fascinating history of this enigmatic castle, including many of the bloody battles that took place here, such as the War of Independence between Scotland and England in the 14th Century. You will also have the opportunity to stroll the beautiful Princes Street Gardens and pass the gorgeous George Heriot’s School built in 1628, and now a mecca for Harry Potter fans around the world, as it is believed to have inspired Hogwarts