Edinburgh Castle Tours

Edinburgh Castle showing chateau or palace and heritage elements
Edinburgh Castle featuring mountains, chateau or palace and heritage architecture
Edinburgh Castle featuring heritage architecture and a city
Edinburgh Castle which includes a park
Edinburgh Castle featuring heritage architecture, a city and skyline

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.A guided tour is included with the price of admission. If you prefer to explore the ramparts, towers and battlements on your own, check the castle’s official website for one of its suggested itineraries.As you make your way through the Entrance Gateway, look up to see the statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace (aka “Braveheart”), two 14th-century defenders of Scottish independence.Join the crowds at the far end of the Argyle Battery to watch the One O ’Clock Gun. The cannon is fired every day except Sunday at exactly one o’clock. It started in 1861 to help ships in nearby Leith Harbour set their clocks. Stand in the Great Hall, the grandiose room where Charles I banqueted. Step inside the bedchamber where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the future James VI of Scotland who united the English and Scottish crowns in 1603. Gaze upon the Scottish crown jewels on the first floor of the Royal Palace. Alongside these treasures is the Stone of Destiny, a block of red sandstone that’s been used in royal coronation ceremonies for centuries.Visit the Scottish National War Memorial that commemorates Scottish soldiers lost in the two world wars and other military conflicts. Edinburgh Castle can be reached by foot from the east end of Princes Street. The castle site includes steep cobblestone streets that may present difficulties for some people. Parts of the castle are wheelchair accessible and a limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first come, first served basis. There is no on-site parking, but there are a few disabled parking bays, which need to be booked in advance. The castle is open daily but opening times vary throughout the year check the official castle website for times.

Plan a trip to see Edinburgh Castle

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
First Lasswade Road House

First Lasswade Road House

4 out of 5
Gilmerton
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 23
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Boston (BOS) to Edinburgh (EDI)
7.6/10 Good! (4 reviews)
Destiny Scotland Royal Mile Residence

Destiny Scotland Royal Mile Residence

4 out of 5
Old Town Edinburgh
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 24
found 24 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Edinburgh (EDI)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (151 reviews)
The location of this property is amazing. Literal steps from the Royal Mile and a fantastic pub right next door. Rooms worked well and were clean, and the kitchen provided essentials for anything you’d need. Definitely recommend!

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

First Pleasance Luxury Apartment

First Pleasance Luxury Apartment

4 out of 5
Southside
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Oct 5 - Oct 11
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Boston (BOS) to Edinburgh (EDI)
8.4/10 Very Good! (5 reviews)

Browse tours and tickets to explore Edinburgh Castle

Tours & day trips

See all 486 activities
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Activity duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 85 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $120 per adult
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry TourOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 183 activities
Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Activity duration is 1 hour
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $35 per adult
Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth TavernOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 22 activities
Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

Activity duration is 11 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $317 per adult
Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Day Trip from EdinburghOpens in new tab

Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 19 activities
Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 17 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $39 per adult
Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with WhiskyOpens in new tab

Classes & workshops

See all 11 activities
Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $24 per adult
Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing CruiseOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Princes Street Gardens which includes a statue or sculpture and a fountain

Princes Street Gardens

Spend time in this attractive green space that separates Edinburgh’s Old Town from its 18th-century New Town.

Princes Street Gardens
February 2015 A view along Grassmarket in Edinburgh, taken while spending a weekend in this great city. There are many areas of Edinburgh to explore and having spent a couple of hours on a walking tour here, I would thoroughly recommend this as a way of getting to know those places off the usual tourist track.

Grassmarket

During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Check out the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Grassmarket
Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre which includes drinks or beverages

Scotch Whisky Experience

Enjoy a barrel ride, talks and tasting sessions in this lively museum devoted to Scotland's famous amber nectar.

Scotch Whisky Experience
Old Town of Edinburgh

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

You can study the exhibits at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Edinburgh. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Royal Lyceum Theatre

Royal Lyceum Theatre

Get tickets for a show at Royal Lyceum Theatre, a theater with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.

Royal Lyceum Theatre
Usher Hall

Usher Hall

Enjoy a performance at Usher Hall, a storied theater in Edinburgh. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and notable monuments.

Usher Hall

Best Lodging Options Near Edinburgh Castle

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

4 out of 5
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
YOTEL Edinburgh

YOTEL Edinburgh

4 out of 5
Erskine House, Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
YOTEL Edinburgh
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

2 out of 5
1 a Parliament Square, Edinburgh, Scotland
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

4 out of 5
23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

4 out of 5
61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

4 out of 5
231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

5 out of 5
1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

4 out of 5
80 High Street The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket

Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket

3 out of 5
152 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
See all 2,871 properties in Edinburgh Castle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle offers a variety of activities for visitors, including engaging theater performances, vibrant festivals, and unique shopping experiences. You can enjoy music concerts and take part in sightseeing tours to explore the castle's rich history. For those interested in sustainability, the castle has achieved Leed Gold certification, showcasing its commitment to eco-friendly practices. A comprehensive guide will enhance your visit, ensuring you don't miss any highlights during your trip.

Shopping

At Edinburgh Castle, enjoy shopping at The Hub and Tartan Weaving Mill, both just 0.2 miles away, offering unique souvenirs. Princes Mall, located 0.5 miles from the castle, features family-friendly entertainment and shopping options. If you're up for a drive, explore other nearby shopping centers for more choices.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Murrayfield Stadium, just 2 miles from Edinburgh Castle, where you can enjoy thrilling sports events. For a dose of culture, visit Queen's Hall, 0.9 miles away, featuring captivating musical performances. If you're up for adventure, glide across the ice at Murrayfield Ice Rink, also 2 miles away.

Adventure

Enjoy skiing at Midlothian Ski Centre, located 0.4 miles from Edinburgh Castle, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. For a thrilling experience, head to Bedlam Paintball, situated 0.7 miles away, where you can engage in exciting paintball battles. Alternatively, visit Midlothian Snowsports Centre, 4 miles away, for more ski adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the thrilling vibes at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, just 0.2 miles from the castle. For a romantic evening, enjoy drinks at Greyfriar's Bobby, 0.4 miles away. Don't miss a captivating show at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, also 0.2 miles from your location.

Find the best attractions near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle offers a rich blend of cultural experiences, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. Explore the vibrant streets and museums nearby, while immersing yourself in the city’s history. For those seeking accommodations, consider staying at one of the best castle hotels in Edinburgh for a truly unique experience. This captivating destination promises to leave lasting memories for every traveler.

  • Princes Street: Located 0.3 miles from Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street is a bustling thoroughfare filled with shops, cafes, and stunning views of the castle. It's the perfect spot to experience the vibrant city atmosphere while enjoying a leisurely stroll.
  • Grassmarket: Only 0.2 miles away, Grassmarket is a lively area with a mix of history and modern charm. Known for its outdoor markets and family-friendly vibe, it's an ideal place to grab a bite and soak up the local culture.
  • University of Edinburgh: Situated 0.6 miles from the castle, this historic university boasts impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore the beautiful campus and immerse yourself in the scholarly atmosphere of one of the UK's oldest institutions.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Castle

Visitor numbers around Edinburgh Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Edinburgh Castle falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Edinburgh Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April45.1°F (7.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh Castle

To save money on your visit to Edinburgh Castle, plan your trip between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Book a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Tuesdays, which offer the best rates. Use Expedia’s tools to filter accommodations by budget and compare room rates. Consider package deals that include flights and activities for additional savings, and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cashback on future stays. Walking is also a great way to explore the area and enjoy free sights!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edinburgh Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Edinburgh Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Edinburgh Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.