Phenomenal tour. Jane did such a wonderful job - she clearly loves the fascinating intersection of history and politics that shaped Edinburgh into such a unique place, and we thoroughly enjoyed her clear and engaging narrative. Will have to do another tour with her when we visit next!
Sites and Insights: An Expert-Led Edinburgh Welcome Tour
Your first taste of Edinburgh, side-by-side with a local guide
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Holyrood Palace
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High Kirk of St Giles
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Greyfriars Tolbooth and Highland Kirk
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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GratuitiesWe encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Food and drinkRefreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet near the National Museum of Scotland; exact details are in your confirmation email with a map. The walk concludes at Netherbow Port.
If you're traveling as a family, we suggest our Edinburgh Tour for Kids with the Museum of Scotland. All participants on our small group tours must be at least 13 years old.
The tour covers 1-2 miles at a relaxed pace, with breaks to sit, use restrooms, and grab a drink.
No, we will view Edinburgh Castle from the outside only.
No, we will only view Holyrood Palace from the outside.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Don’t just take our word for it
Adam was great - informative and friendly. The surprise tea and shortbread break was a lovely treat.
Jenny was awesome. Loved her sense of humour. Also appreciated her insight into University of Edinburgh and how casually she threw those tidbits in.
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With ten or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.
