Edinburgh is an old city with roots stretching back to Mesolithic settlements from 8500 BC. By the early Middle Ages, a hillfort named Din Eidyn (now Castle Rock) was established and became the basis for modern-day Edinburgh. Following the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century, Edinburgh grew to a population of about 50,000. Going into the 19th and 20th centuries, the city experienced massive industrialization and established world-renowned institutions like the University of Edinburgh. Today, Edinburgh is home to a cosmopolitan society with famous landmarks that attract millions of tourists every year. The Scottish community is also the second-largest financial district in the UK (after London) and supports a diverse dining scene comprising local and international cuisines. To ensure your stay in Edinburgh goes smoothly, contact Gray Line Worldwide today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Edinburgh
Running through Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. A central feature in the city since the 12th century, the district reflects traditional medieval architecture with narrow alleyways (known as closes) and high rises. Many of Edinburgh’s most popular places to go are easily accessible via the Royal Mile, including Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Real Mary King’s Close. Visit the many buskers, artisans, and shops that sell tartans, whisky, and cashmere (among many other products). Guided tours of the Royal Mile are also available for guests not wanting to miss a thing on the historic pathway!
Located on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a prominent symbol of Scotland’s long and, at times, tumultuous history. Dating back to the Iron Age, the location was originally used as a hill fort and known as “The Castle of the Maidens.” The first written records of the castle detail Malcolm III of Scotland’s establishment of a castle around 1070. Edinburgh Castle was a critical defensive location during the Scottish Wars of Independence and is known as being one the most besieged places in Britain with at least 26 sieges on its record. Particular tour highlights include the Crown Square (the main courtyard), Great Hall (a venue for royal ceremonies and state functions), and One O’Clock Gun (a time signal that has been fired daily since 1861).
Princes Street Garden is a vast green space separating Old Town and New Town. It also is a great place to admire Edinburgh Castle. The gardens are divided into two main areas: East Princes Street Gardens and West Princes Street Gardens, which were both developed during the 1800s. The park was created by draining the Nor Loch, an artificial body of water that once served as part of the city’s defenses. A highly polluted site, the Nor Loch hampered urban expansion until the plan to transform it into a beautiful garden was proposed. Visit the Scott Monument, a spire constructed to honor Sir Walter Scott and his influence in Scottish literature. The Rose Bandstand commonly hosts various concerts and events that might be scheduled for when you’re visiting.
Established when two museums – the Royal Scottish Museum and the Museum of Scotland – merged in 2006, the National Museum of Scotland is a cultural institution that showcases the diverse heritage of its titular nation. Collections include exhibits on Lewis Chessmen, early Pictish stones, and items reflecting the Jacobite uprisings. Artifacts from ancient Egypt, East Asia, and even Dolly the sheep round out an experience fun for the whole family. Visitors can also learn more about now extinct species and diversity of life on Earth.
Standing at approximately 823 feet above sea level, Arthur’s Seat is the highest point in Edinburgh and the remains of an extinct volcano. Its name references the King Arthur and Camelot legend and has evidence of human activity as far back as 5000 BC. The hill offers stunning 360-degree views of the city and the Lothians, which makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The most popular trail begins near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and takes about one to two hours to complete. For adventurous travelers, the main path takes visitors on a brick ascent up the slope. Other trails provide a more moderate hiking experience that meanders past Dunsapie Loch and St. Margaret’s Loch.
Commonly known as “the Fringe,” the Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world. It takes place annually in August and features a vast lineup of performances in theatre, comedy, dance, and music. The festival originally began in 1947 when eight uninvited theater companies performed at the Edinburgh International Festival. As a result of this faux pas, the Fringe was established as an open-access event where anyone can perform without a selection committee. By 2024, the festival included over 3,746 different shows and more than 51,446 performances throughout the month of August.
Take a day trip from Edinburgh combining Highland scenery with a ride aboard the famous Jacobite Steam Train. Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognizable from the Harry Potter films, and enjoy free time in the fishing village of Mallaig. Along the way, admire the landscapes of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe. Bring layers, water, and snacks, as this excursion involves an early departure and a long day of travel.
Head beyond Edinburgh for a day of mountain scenery, Highland stories, and the legendary waters of Loch Ness. Gray Line’s guided excursion includes landscapes such as Rannoch Moor and Glencoe, with stops in Callander and Pitlochry. At Loch Ness, take photographs and keep watch for the elusive Nessie. Allow a full day for this 12-hour excursion and remember that boat trips and attraction admission cost extra.
Explore the Scottish villages and castles that brought Outlander’s story to life. Visit Falkland, which portrays Inverness, and Culross, recognizable as Cranesmuir. Other itinerary highlights include Doune Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and Midhope Castle, the exterior setting for Lallybroch. Along the way, your driver-guide shares local history and connections to the series. Check admission costs and access before booking, as entrance fees are excluded and filming can affect castle visits.
Make time during your Edinburgh stay to explore Stirling Castle, where Scotland’s royal past comes into focus. Perched above the surrounding landscape, the castle offers sweeping views and stories of kings, queens, and historic struggles. Walk through centuries of Scottish heritage and admire the architecture of this imposing fortress. Then, return to Edinburgh with a deeper appreciation of the history that connects Scotland’s cities and castles.
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Driver Mohammad was the best! The scenery was so amazing, highly recommend!
Our guide was great. A very good driver and very informative about areas we went through. Hope he can keep giving more of these tours.