Location: Edinburgh
Top Things to do in Edinburgh
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What to do and see in Edinburgh, Scotland: The Best Movie & TV Tours
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city, renowned for its heritage, culture and festivals.
Take a long walk around the centre to explore the World Heritage Sites of the Old Town and New Town, as well as all the area’s museums and galleries. Then stop for a delicious meal made from fresh Scottish produce before heading out to take in one of Edinburgh’s many events — including the famous summer festivals of culture, or the Winter Festivals of music, light and ceilidhs.
Restaurants in Edinburgh
1. Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
What a magical atmosphere in the place where JK Rowling wrote part of the first novel! You will have a chance to feel it yourself. You will visit one of the Hogwarts House also. What is the connection between Hogwarts and Lauriston Place? What a unique and a bit scary places inspired to create the names for some of the characters in the books? Where you can see Rowling’s handprints? Where is the ‘birthplace’ of Harry Potter? You will also have a chance to find out if you are a pureblood, a muggle, or a squib? A professional local guide will tell you fascinating stories and facts
Inclusions: Private guide
Exclusions:
2. Outlander private tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
During the tour if you want to skip one attraction to see another, want to stay at one for longer, it is completely up to you. We provide a list of attractions that are not mentioned on the add in case you would like to change or see something else. We are the only company which does this way.
Inclusions: professional guide and fully insured vehicle
Exclusions:
Reviewed By traveller5987
We had a wonderful 3 days exploring Skye. Raphael our guide was knowledgeable and showed us the island without feeling rushed. We had a couple of sights to visit and hikes to do when in Skye and we are pleased to have managed it all. I would certainly recommend MAD GOAT if you are looking for private tours in and around Scotland
3. The Outlander Experience - Private 1 day tour (1 - 8 People)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This tour is a must for every fan of the hit TV show Outlander and is a bucket list-moment to get to visit the sets of your favourite show. Relive the books, walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire, and explore ancient castles and little villages that have not been changed since the 16th century. Meet the friendly locals and enjoy homemade cuisine from a family run tearoom in Falkland. A massive fan of the hit TV show, your tour guide for the day has actually appeared in Season 3 & 4 of Outlander so has lots of inside knowledge. We look forward to sharing this experience with you and giving you a day you will never forget. Haste Ye Back!
Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Snacks, driver/guide, Dram of whisky, Private tour
Exclusions: Visitor attractions, Lunch
Reviewed By terryw717
We had a holiday booked with another tour company that was to take us to the Isle of Skye from Glasgow. Through research we wanted to to see a bit more of Scotland whist we were there after that tour finished (we are from down south) and more than just Skye. We found Alba Experiences through Trip Adviser and were impressed with the previous reviews and also the tour and it’s description. This was “The Braveheart Experience - Private 1 day tour (1 to 8 People) Sunday 13th September 2020” Then with just two weeks to our original tour, the other company cancelled the holiday leaving us with just that one day tour with Alba Experiences. We had already our own flights booked plus the hotels for before and after it. As we were so impressed with Alba Experiences and how they communicated with us, we asked about them combining two tours that would have been for the same dates as the original and giving us one day for free time before the Braveheart Tour. This was the “Discover Inveraray And The Scottish Countryside” a tour from Glasgow to Oban and then the “Experience the Isle of Skye” a four day tour of Skye. Very bespoke for our needs. Luck was on our side and a bespoke tour was booked. Alba Experiences also recommended Hotels that we should book and additionally that if we wanted to eat out at night that we should also book them in advance as they were known to be booking fast. This proved invaluable. Day one (7th Sept) of the tour we met James McInlay, our tour guide and driver, and were so impressed with the cleanliness of his tour bus and the fact that he was ready well before our set meeting time, in fact every day James would be waiting for us with the tour bus clean again for the next days adventures. The following might sound like a list, but we packed so much in and I’m not sure if I am limited with this review. It was not a list, but a perfect guided tour of the areas we went to with history lessons and areas pointed out that we would surely missed if trying to do this ourselves. James delivered through professionalism and passion for his country and its history and beauty something more than we could have ever imagined. Our disappointment with the original tour by the other company being cancelled soon faded away and proved to be our win. Back to day one, we traveled from Bishopton towards Oban, taking in the beautiful town of Luss and it’s Parish Church where the only outdoor Viking Hogback stone is, Inveraray Castle and Jail, an area of ancient (4500 years old) rock art, the Nether Largie Standing Stones from 3200 years ago and the Kilmartin Grave Slabs. All this in one day. Day two (8th Sept) started with a visit to McCraigs Tower, then on to Castle Stalker, Glenfinan Monument and Viaduct (Harry Potter recent fame), Eilean Castle and Carbost Bridge. Day three (9th Sep) we went to the Kilted Rock, the area known as the Quiraing (possibly my favourite), Flora MacDonalds grave, Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle and back to our Hotel in Portree. Day four (10th Sept), Neist Point, Dunvegan Castle (you simply must go there), Fairy Pools (take hiking boots as it can sometimes get a bit wet but worth it). Day five (11th Sept), Carbost Bridge again with even better views, Urquart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness, Invermoriston Bridge, Fort Augustus, Three Sisters Mountain range and back to Bishopton for the end of our bespoke tour. We were to have a Seaplane adventure the next day with another company, alas the weather had other ideas and it got understandably cancelled. Then on the 13th Sept we started the original tour we booked with Alba Experineces, to visit the National Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, ending with a stop at the Bannockburn Visitor Centre on the site of the decisive Bannockburn Battle. Alas, the visitor centre was closed and James had already made alternative arrangements and we visited Doune Castle (Monty Python fame), Rob Roy’s grave and the Falls of Falloch. These were so impressive from the rains over the previous days. James quickly got to know our likes and made slight adaptations to the tour, we were able to linger longer where we wanted, he found our passion for local food and took us to wonderful eateries. With out any doubt, we will return to see more, for there is more, and there is only one company that we would choose, Alba Experiences. I can not rate them high enough. I am limited to just 10 pictures, through James’s guidance with his professional photography skills I took many.
4. Borders and Alnwick Castle Tour from Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 13 reviews
A tour that takes you from Edinburgh over the border to England and back. You’ll have ample time to explore one of the UK’s best castles, Alnwick Castle, made famous by the Harry Potter films. Also, stop at Melrose Abbey in the Borders, on the magnificent east coast of Scotland.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Mercedes air-conditioned vehicle, panoramic windows
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Admissions
Reviewed By C1893GXsallyj
Amazing day tour to Loch Ness with Michael - he looked after us all well and told great stories & took us to stunning view points! I loved it and am keen to book another tour soon.
5. Outlander Adventure Small-Group Day Tour from Glasgow
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 52 reviews
Visit three castles and a well-preserved village on this adventure through the sights and stories of Outlander. There are moments that make your heart pound, scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat, and kisses that cause you to blush. But no matter how thrilling Outlander is, we think the real-life sites are even more emotive. This is because visiting the locations lets you step back in time and wander through unchanged, ancient villages. It gives you the chance to gaze up in awe at the mighty walls of a 600-year-old castle. And it allows you to venture through the real battlefields of the Jacobite uprising. On this tour, your guide takes you through a fantastic array of Outlander sights while telling you all about the history that inspired the famous show. So, take this time-travelling adventure and discover that the real locations and history are as exciting as the show itself.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach, Small group tour (max 16 people)
Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Food and drinks, unless specified, Admission fees
Reviewed By maholi_leask
What an incredible experience. I’d definitely recommend this tour for anyone who wants to know and see more of this beautiful country ????????????????????????????. George was very friendly, kind and knowledgable. Each stop was absolutely breathtaking! My main reason for booking the tour was visiting Oban and I’m so pleased I had plenty of time to wonder around, eat and visit the tower. Technical details you might want to know: We came back to the bus station at 6:40 pm ( I got in on time to get my bus back to Aberdeen yeii) butwe had perfect weather and minimal traffic Plenty of stops. Public toilets in Oban charge 50p so make sure you have coins. Thank you for helping me with that George . You are a star (in Netflix and real life) PS: I absolutely LOVE the Scottish playlist ???????????????????? Thank you for showing us around ????????????????????????????
6. 4-Day Outlander Trail Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 30 reviews
Relive the tragic battles, death-defying escapes, and sentimental moments of Outlander. You’ll visit towns that are virtually unchanged since the 16th Century. Wander through ancient battlefields and visit some of Scotland’s most hidden-away castles. Discuss your favourite scenes from the show, enjoy Scotland's gorgeous landscapes and follow the epic journey of the time travelling love affair, on this small-group tour from Edinburgh.
Inclusions: 3 nights en-suite accommodation in a B&B or 3-star Hotel (breakfast included), Professional driver guide, Transportation by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach (small groups max 16 passengers)
Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Meals and refreshments, Admission fees
Reviewed By 464kathyi
Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????
7. Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 126 reviews
Experience Scotland on this 8 - 10 hour day tour visiting the main filming locations that brought Diana Galbaldon's Outlander series to life. Are you a Jacobite or a Sassenach? Join this tour to find out.
Inclusions: Driver/guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Admission Fees
Reviewed By Gretchen Z
I booked a 3 day outlander tour for £1080 last June 2020. I paid a £108 deposit. The trip was for my 70 year old mother. It reached Christmas 2020 and I contacted Slainte tours who operate as Clyde coast tourism at Companies house. After a few weeks I had confirmation that the trip in February was cancelled and that I could rearrange which I understood with Covid-19. I sent new dates and chased for 2 months. Nothing. I received one email saying an owner (Helmut) had been ill and that they would get back to me. The former owner left the company last August 2020. This business is owned solely by Catriona Stevenson and is a scam. I asked for a refund repeatedly from February 19th 2021 as the company had breached contract. No contact. On the register at Companies house it shows the business is not financially stable and has a number of filing issues. The website shows they are part of a tourism group but again this is a lie and they have been asked to remove the logos (which they have not done). They are not part of any group that guarantees trips or money. As they use PayPal invoicing for trips, you are not protected financially. I am now looking at legal options having taken advice and am going through the slow steps required before I can take the company to small claims court (I have done the initial legal letters which have all been ignored). Save your money and book elsewhere! At least I found out before I travelled to Scotland with my 70year old mother! Avoid this scam.
8. Outlander Adventure Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 197 reviews
Take this time-travelling adventure through a fantastic array of Outlander sights on a small group day trip from Edinburgh. With a maximum group size of 16 passengers, you are sure to have a memorable and personal experience on this special day trip for fans of the show and history lovers.
Inclusions: Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach , The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide, Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers)
Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified, Entrance fees
Reviewed By 464kathyi
Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????
9. JK Rowling's Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 126 reviews
JK Rowling is a moderately influential woman who's sold a few books. On this tour we dive deep into her history. Learn to use failure as a springboard, be inspired, stay committed and conquer the world. Discover the sights that inspired her and the cafes which fueled her. Experience how, through her adopted daughter, Edinburgh once more left footprints upon the world. . ◘ Learn the entire genesis of Harry Potter, from lightning striking on a Manchester train to becoming a pillar of British culture & shaping a generation. ◘ Reviewers say it's a good introduction to Edinburgh's Hogwartian old town, discover fabulous gothic scenes off the Muggle-track, the stonework of Rowling's imagination. ◘ There's magic, I never got my letter so I'm giving you yours. . JK Rowling is a human just like us. She became a fugitive, spiritually wounded 'penniless single mother' but through perseverance overcame. Come be inspired by her & discover how her journey illuminates Harry's world.
Inclusions: If entry is permitted we may go inside:, The museum of Scotland., Bank of Scotland HQ: don't pull the Goblins' ears!, Supreme Courts: enter Edinburgh's Wizengamot., Inside JK Rowling's head. It's fairly big., Spoilers, it explores JK's themes so is terrible for whetting appetites
Exclusions: Scottish farmhouse Ice cream is extra, unless we have a full tour or it's a private, Genocide: We're a local company compliant with Scottish law., Tips: Wizards aren't rich, unsurprisingly, help him out if you can afford to, Potter guides & aspiring guides: please look elsewhere, I love you but I have too many 'tributes'.
Reviewed By Peter_B_68_2016
My family and I most often speak of the tour with Sam when we talk about our trip to Edinburg. I hope we will return one day and do it again.
10. The Outlander, Palaces & Jacobites Experience from Edinburgh
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 178 reviews
Enjoy a one day tour visiting filming locations of the award-winning TV series, Outlander. Visit castles, palaces and mansions. Explore Linlithgow Palace, Outlander's Wentworth Prison; see Blackness Castle, the Headquarters of Black Jack Randall, and explore the Royal Burgh of Culross, Claire's herb garden; and many more!
Inclusions: Driver/guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Entry to attractions
Reviewed By 167mahmoudm
A fantastic day with Neil our tour guide. A PLENTY of information in attractive way. Ask to go the trip with him. You deserve a trip like this with a fantastic tour guide like Neil. We saw 7 lochs, 4 castles, and two villages. Thank you Neil
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