About This Tour
This walking tour is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s capital. The first secret you’ll learn? That you can skip the line at Edinburgh Castle! Step into Edinburgh’s secrets and discover the heart of Scotland’s capital, beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. A beautiful city steeped in awe-inspiring history that has been perfectly preserved to this day, in the wynds, closes, courtyards and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The castle towers over Edinburgh from up high on its ancient volcanic rock – a literal fortress, looking out over the city’s stunning landscapes. Battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it. Visit Edinburgh Castle with your Mercat Tours Storyteller and from the Royal Mile you’ll walk over the drawbridge and straight past the ticket line – leaving the queues behind and continuing your journey into Edinburgh’s history uninterrupted.
Photo Gallery






Tour Analysis
Tour Characteristics
Analyze this tour to extract its characteristics (adventure level, structure, food importance, etc.). This is a one-time analysis that enables personalized matching.
One-time analysis • Enables preference matching
What's Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Mercat Cross, High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF. Look for the 8 sided monument with white Unicorn on top. You will find a member of our visitor services team waiting here to check you in. They will be dressed in black, holding an iPad, wearing an orange lanyard & holding a black & orange umbrella.
Special Instructions
To provide a fully immersive experience, we'll provide a personal audio device. Your Storyteller will use a headset with microphone to ensure you hear every word over the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's lively Old Town. You are welcome to bring your own headphones (3.5mm jack) or use a pair of ours. Please arrive at the Mercat Cross on The Royal Mile (High Street) EH1 1RF, 15 minutes before the start of your tour and check-in with the on-street representative from Mercat Tours.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Mercat Tours
Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.
Viator Certified
Trusted local operator
Guest Ratings
Based on 1,502 verified reviews
Average rating
Ready to Go?
Book Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Small Group Walking Tour
Secure your spot instantly through Viator and receive flexible cancellation options plus verified customer support.
Trusted partner • Instant confirmation







