The small-ish, compact size of Edinburgh, Scotland, makes it an easy city to navigate solo, but the history is so complex and vast, it only makes sense to join a guided tour for the full backstory, or at least parts of it. Here are a few of Edinburgh’s guided tours to get to know the city on a more intimate level.
Harry Potter Magical Walking Tour
Fans of the Harry Potter books are probably aware author J.K. Rowling lived in Edinburgh for some time and found inspiration for her books. Take part in an audiovisual quiz and, if you win, you can win points for your house.
When in Scotland, sample Scotch whisky. This guided tour costs $21 and includes a brief history lesson about the drink, allows you to taste the beverage and even gives you a commemorative glass to take home.
Underground Vaults Tour
Go underneath Edinburgh to view the 18th-century vaults and learn more about the eerie events that took place, including murders and the persecution of witches.
Another bone-chilling tour is the Dark Side Walking Tour, which keeps you aboveground but takes you through graveyards and tiny alleyways while a guide tells you stories about the ghosts that haunt Edinburgh to this day.
Old Town Tour
If you’re looking for something more simple and streamlined, Old Town walking tours are a perfect fit. They take place during the day and include a sampling of history as well as insight into locals’ favorite places to eat and drink.
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