New! Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour with Eating Europe

Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town with a Food Tour for Scottish Flavors

This Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour by Eating Europe offers an engaging way to experience the city’s culinary and cultural highlights in just 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours. With a price of $91.03 per person, this tour highlights local Scottish cuisine, from traditional haggis to modern sweets, and combines flavorful bites with fascinating city stories. The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed pace.

This tour is especially fun during August’s Fringe Festival, when street performers and lively atmosphere add an extra layer of excitement. Known for its high ratings of 5.0 out of 5, the tour is recommended by 99% of participants and offers a fantastic mix of culinary delights, scenic city views, and historical insights. While most stops feature free admission, some include tastings, and the tour features group discounts and a mobile ticket option for convenience. Expect an authentic Scottish experience that’s both tasty and informative.

Key Points

• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours, flexible for your schedule
• Cost: $91.03 per person, with options for group discounts
• Highlights: Scottish haggis with whisky ketchup, fresh seafood, modern Scottish desserts, local cheeses, and pub favorites
• Special Feature: During August, the tour celebrates Edinburgh Fringe Festival with street performances and festival-specific bites
• Stops: From elegant cafes to lively pubs and colorful streets, with iconic views of Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill
• Small Groups: A maximum of 12 travelers ensures an intimate experience
• Includes: A local guide, city views, and tastings at key historic and culinary spots

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Edinburgh’s City Center

The tour begins at the Paddington Bear Statue located at 42 St Andrew Square, a central spot easy to reach via public transportation. It concludes at 23 Grassmarket, providing convenient access to other city sights or local pubs. Meeting here allows for a smooth start and end, ideal for those staying within walking distance or using public transit.

Travelers should plan to arrive on time, as the tour moves through several stops across Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town. The small group size and flexible timing make this tour accessible for most, with most stops able to accommodate gluten-free or vegan diets, though options may be limited at certain venues.

From the Old Town to the Castle District

This tour skillfully weaves through Edinburgh’s historic core, starting at Cafe Royal in the New Town. Known for its elegant Parisian-inspired interior, Cafe Royal offers a half Scotch egg, which varies seasonally—smoked salmon in summer and venison during winter. This stop offers a taste of Scottish seafood with a touch of finesse, with free admission and a 20-minute tasting session.

Next, the route takes travelers to Landy’s Fish and Chips on the Royal Mile. This local institution is celebrated for serving the best fish and chips in Edinburgh, with freshly battered Scottish haddock paired with golden, crispy chips. Here, a 20-minute stop includes a soft drink of choice, making for a classic Scottish supper.

Discover Edinburgh’s Pubs and Historic Streets

Continuing along the Royal Mile, the tour visits the Royal Mile Tavern, famed for its pub food and eclectic interior. Expect a classic meat pie paired with locally brewed ale during a 20-minute stop. The venue offers a lively atmosphere, ideal for soaking up Edinburgh’s pub culture.

The group then visits the Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, which has specialized in haggis for over 20 years. This cozy cafe-restaurant is renowned for its haggis served with whisky ketchup and a Scottish soft drink. The 20-minute tasting session here highlights a beloved Scottish dish with a modern twist.

Iconic Streets and City Views

A stroll down Victoria Street offers some of Edinburgh’s most colorful and winding scenery, often cited as the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. The 20-minute walk here provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the city’s quirky charm.

Following Victoria Street, the tour reaches Princes Street, where stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and Arthur’s Seat await. Here, the guide shares stories about the city’s history and its connection between the Old and New Towns during a 20-minute stop.

Sweet Treats and Scottish Cheese

The Grassmarket area hosts a modern take on Scottish sweets, including handcrafted donuts and award-winning ice cream made with local ingredients. This 20-minute stop introduces visitors to Scottish desserts with a fresh, contemporary flair.

Next, the tour visits Mellis Cheese on Victoria Street, a family-owned cheesemonger offering Scottish cheeses from local farms. Sampling at Mellis provides insight into Scotland’s cheese-making tradition, with a 20-minute visit to enjoy some flavorful local varieties.

Special Focus on the Fringe Festival Experience

During August, the tour turns into a Fringe Festival celebration, blending Scottish bites with street performances. Guests watch local street performers while sampling Scottish snacks from independent restaurants. This unique feature elevates the experience, making it perfect for visitors wanting to combine food, culture, and entertainment.

The tour emphasizes local independent venues, showcasing Edinburgh’s vibrant arts scene alongside its culinary traditions. While the core stops remain similar year-round, the Festival period offers an extra lively atmosphere.

Guided by Knowledgeable and Friendly Local Guides

The tour is led by English-speaking guides who are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor. Guides like Ailsa, Luana, and Andre receive high praise for their ability to blend history, folklore, and culinary insights seamlessly. They never rush guests and ensure everyone feels comfortable asking questions.

Reviews highlight guides’ personality, attentiveness, and passion for Edinburgh’s culture and cuisine. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a food walk.

Practical Details: Booking, Accessibility, and Tips

Booking is straightforward via mobile tickets or group discounts, and most stops can accommodate gluten-free or vegan diets, with some limitations. The tour is suitable for most travelers and features near public transportation options for easy access.

The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the designated starting point.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Edinburgh Experiences

This Edinburgh Old Town Food & Drinks Tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining local cuisine, city views, and cultural stories. The inclusion of Fringe Festival elements during August makes it especially lively and fun. The small group size and personalized guides create a welcoming atmosphere for discovering Edinburgh’s flavors and history.

While the tour emphasizes Scottish food, it also showcases the city’s visual charm and historic streets, making it ideal for those who want to savor local dishes while exploring iconic sights. Guests consistently rate it 5 stars, reflecting its quality and engaging nature.

Edinburgh Food & Drinks Tour: A Tasty Way to Experience the City

This tour offers a delicious introduction to Edinburgh’s culinary scene, supported by knowledgeable guides and beautiful city vistas. It shines brightest during August’s Fringe Festival, when the streets come alive with performers and festive energy.

While it’s a shorter experience compared to full-day tours, it packs enough flavor and stories to leave a lasting impression. Perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting to enjoy Edinburgh’s vibrant atmosphere in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts between 1 hour 30 minutes and 3 hours, depending on the pace and additional festival activities during August.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $91.03 per person, with options for group discounts and mobile tickets.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Paddington Bear Statue at 42 St Andrew Square and ends at 23 Grassmarket.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Most stops can accommodate gluten-free or vegan diets, but options may be limited at certain venues.

Is the tour suitable during Fringe Festival?
Yes, during August, the tour includes street performances and festival-specific food offerings**, adding to the fun atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. The tour is a walking experience through Edinburgh’s central neighborhoods.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate; check specific venue policies for age restrictions, but the tour is generally family-friendly.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Stops are on main streets and historic alleys, but some terrain may be uneven. Confirm with the provider if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of authentic Scottish dishes, scenic views of Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill, and the festival atmosphere during August make it a lively, flavorful way to explore the city.