Eating Edinburgh: Old Town Food & Drinks Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a culinary journey through the medieval charm of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, and stunning Georgian architecture of its New Town, exploring the heart of Scottish cuisine.
This walking tour will take you to some of the Royal Mile’s best hidden spots. From haggis and whisky infused treats (that’s Scotch whisky, not Scotch whiskey, aye!) to iconic seafood restaurants and the most indulgent of Scottish desserts, you’ll sample quintessential Scottish flavors in new and exciting ways.
Discover the city’s food culture through locally made cheeses, traditional pub fare, and unexpected culinary delights that showcase the best of Scottish cuisine on this Edinburgh tour. Wander down the legendary Victoria Street, explore historic closes, and taste your way through some of Edinburgh’s most beloved eateries.
Available options
Private Food Tour
Private Guided Tour<br/>Extra: Glass of champagne at Cafe Royal
Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour
Fringe Festival Food Tour
Fringe & food: power couple: Learn the history of Edinburgh’s famous arts festival whilst enjoying an array of Scottish cuisine for lunch. <br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>Edinburgh’s Fringe: Soak in the street performances of Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival wander down Royal Mile and Victoria Street
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Hesitant about trying haggis? We’ll try it with a modern twist that includes whisky marmalade.
Taste locally produced Scottish cheeses from a family-owned cheesemonger.
‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Explore Victoria Street, the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Elegant and iconic seafood restaurant with stunning Parisian-inspired interior. Enjoy a tasting of Cullen skink, the traditional Scottish smoked haddock soup, combining classic flavors with timeless style.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Taking in breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and Arthur’s Seat, you’ll learn about the rich tapestry of Edinburgh’s history and how it weaves together the stories of the Old and New Towns.
3
Stop 3
A cozy café-restaurant renowned for serving the best haggis in town. Enjoy a tasting of haggis bon bons with raspberry whisky marmalade paired with an iconic Scottish soft drink
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Stand in the heart of Edinburgh’s most famous street, the Royal Mile. Stretching between Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle, this historic street marks where the city of Edinburgh began over 900 years ago.
5
Visit this well-respected local institution, famous for its hearty pub food and eclectic interior. Enjoy a tasting savory pie with ocally brewed ale, capturing the true flavors of the neighborhood.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Stroll along the colorful and winding Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque and iconic streets, often said to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.
7
Stop 7
This tiny family-owned cheesemonger serves Scottish cheeses from local farm producers.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Situated right beneath Castle Rock, enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from below and hear the fascinating story of one of Scotland’s most infamous women, Maggie Dickson.
9
Stop 9
Stop at a classic local chippy, famous for serving one of Scotland’s most infamous and daring treats: the deep-fried Mars bar. Brave a bite and experience this quirky culinary legend firsthand!
What's not included
Gratuities / Tips for the guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
15 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
162 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour is for ages 7 and above. Children under 7 may be refused entry due to vendor restrictions.
This activity requires a minimum of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in St Andrew Square by the Melville Monument. Your guide will be wearing a purple tote bag and will be standing by the bench with Paddington Bear.
Important notes
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time.
You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
About Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Historical
2-3 hours
£18 (adult), £11 (child)
Royal Mile
A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Several hours to explore fully
Free to walk, attractions vary
Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours (hike)
Free
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.
Historical
2 hours
£19 (adult), £10 (child)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan.
Scotch Pie
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.
Snack
Contains meat.
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Irn-Bru
Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.
Drink
Contains caffeine and sugar.
Popular Activities
Hiking Arthur's Seat
Kayaking on the Water of Leith
Cycling the National Cycle Network
Afternoon tea at The Dome
Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden
Strolling along Princes Street Gardens
Exploring the National Museum of Scotland
Visiting the Scottish National Gallery
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket
By bus
Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
New Town
Leith
Day trips
Lothian
10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day
Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Fife
30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day
Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.
Stirling
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.
Festivals
Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August
Edinburgh International Festival • August
Hogmanay • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
- Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
- Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
- Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
- Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
