Edinburgh transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Its historic streets light up with festive cheer, offering a range of tours that capture the city’s unique charm. Whether you’re drawn to cozy pub visits, exploring Christmas markets, or discovering hidden corners, Edinburgh’s holiday experiences deliver authentic Scottish holiday spirit. We especially love the Private 6-Day Christmas Tour in Scotland and Edinburgh for its comprehensive itinerary, and the Edinburgh Christmas Tour, Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local for a personalized touch. These tours stand out because they mix classic sights with local insights, making your holiday visit truly memorable. You can explore the city’s iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens or enjoy exclusive private walks through its historic streets.
If you’re after a shorter adventure, the Edinburgh Christmas Walking Tour with Gingerbread Treat offers a lively, family-friendly experience, perfect for a quick festive fix. On the other hand, the Private Edinburgh’s Enchanted Christmas Walkabout provides a private, intimate way to enjoy Edinburgh’s lights and markets—ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity. Whatever your style, there’s an Edinburgh Christmas experience to match your holiday spirit.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of festive tours designed to suit different interests and schedules. From longer multi-day tours that include accommodation and comprehensive sightseeing (Private 6-Day Christmas Tour) to shorter, personalized experiences like private guided walks (Private Customized Tour: A Local’s Christmas in Edinburgh). We also highlight walking tours that focus on festive sights and local traditions (Edinburgh Christmas Walking Tour with Gingerbread), perfect for a quick taste of Christmas in the city. For those seeking an exclusive experience, the Private Edinburgh’s Enchanted Christmas Walkabout offers a tailored, crowd-free exploration (Private Edinburgh’s Enchanted Christmas Walkabout).
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail so you can find the perfect fit for your holiday visit.
1. Private 6-Day Christmas Tour in Scotland and Edinburgh
At number 1, this comprehensive 6-day tour offers an immersive holiday experience with accommodation, full breakfasts, and airport transfers included. It’s designed to give you a deep dive into Scottish culture, scenery, and festive traditions. The itinerary includes visits to South Queensferry, the impressive Forth Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Queensferry Crossing, along with optional Hogmanay celebrations—Scotland’s famous New Year’s Eve bonanza. While most of the program is available year-round, it’s perfectly suited for December if you want to experience Edinburgh’s Christmas atmosphere combined with scenic day trips through the Scottish landscape.
The tour offers a good mix of sightseeing, local culture, and optional dinners, making it a flexible choice for travelers looking for a holiday package that balances structured tours with free time. The guide ensures you see iconic sights like the Forth Road Bridge and the historic South Queensferry, providing a well-rounded Scottish Christmas experience. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 from one traveler, highlighting the tour’s quality and value for money.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an all-in-one experience, combining sightseeing, culture, and festive celebrations over a relaxed 6-day adventure.
$154
2. Private Customized Tour: A Local’s Christmas In Edinburgh
Number 2 on our list is the Private Customized Tour, which lasts about 3 hours and is led by a local who tailors the experience to your interests. The tour is perfect if you want a more personal, flexible approach to exploring Edinburgh during Christmas. The guide is not a professional guide by trade, but an enthusiastic local, bringing a genuine insight into the city’s seasonal traditions and hidden corners. You’ll stroll along the festively lit streets, visit the bustling Princes Street Christmas Market, and learn about local customs.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to adapt to your preferences. Want to focus on the best shopping spots, discover secret spots away from tourist crowds, or sample Scottish holiday treats? Your guide will customize accordingly. The inclusion of a drink (alcoholic or soft) helps warm up on the chilly winter evening, making it a cozy, personalized experience. It’s especially suitable for couples or small groups seeking intimacy and depth over a broad itinerary.
Bottom Line: A highly personalized choice that offers local insights, flexible stops, and a relaxed pace—great for travelers who want to explore Edinburgh in their own style.
$96.72 per person
3. Edinburgh Christmas Tour, Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local
Number 3 offers a 3-hour guided tour that combines the city’s top attractions with lesser-known spots loved by locals. This tour promises a lively walk past the major sights like the Old Town and Princes Street Gardens, with a focus on hidden gems and local favorites. Highlights include a walk through the enchanting light trail at the Royal Botanic Garden and browsing the Christmas markets for gifts or festive snacks.
During this tour, a local host shares stories rooted in Edinburgh’s Christmas traditions, helping you see the city through a resident’s eyes. The hot chocolate or mulled wine included helps you stay warm while strolling the festively decorated streets. You can choose your meeting time and place, adding flexibility for your schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, local-guided tour with a mix of major sights and hidden delights, all infused with holiday cheer.
4. Edinburgh Christmas Tour, Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local
Number 4 is a 3-hour private walking tour that takes you through Edinburgh’s most festive sights, with the added charm of a hot chocolate or mulled wine included. It’s a flexible experience, allowing your guide to tailor the route based on your interests. You’ll enjoy walking past Princes Street Gardens, exploring Christmas markets, and experiencing the ice rink on George Street. The tour captures the vibrant holiday atmosphere and showcases local traditions.
This tour is especially suited for smaller groups or couples who want a private, relaxed way to enjoy Edinburgh’s Christmas. Its main appeal is the ability to customize the route, so if you’re keen on particular sights or hidden spots, your guide will accommodate. Many reviews praise its warmth and personalized service.
Bottom Line: A highly adaptable, intimate Christmas experience that makes the most of Edinburgh’s festive sights with a touch of local flavor.
5. Edinburgh Christmas Tour with a Local
Number 5 is a 3-hour private tour focusing on customized sightseeing. You’ll be matched with a local guide based on your interests, exploring highlights like the Old Town, Christmas lights, and festive markets. The tour includes time for browsing markets and enjoying the winter wonderland in Princes Street Gardens. Your guide shares tips and tricks for seasonal events, helping you make the most of your holiday stay.
The reviews are excellent, with a full 5/5 rating, and travelers praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge. This experience is ideal if you want a tailored tour with authentic local insights and the chance to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. The flexible start times and personal approach make it a favorite among visitors who prefer a more relaxed, curated experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a personalized, insightful tour with a local, perfect for a short, festive visit.
$141 per person
6. Private Edinburgh’s Enchanted Christmas Walkabout
Finally, number 6 offers a private, 2-hour walk designed exclusively for your group. This tour explores Edinburgh’s festive streets and markets without the crowds, starting at the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. You’ll visit sites like the Princes Street Gardens, Scott Monument, and Edinburgh Castle, all lit up and sparkling with Christmas cheer.
The private nature of this tour makes it ideal for families or small groups wanting an exclusive holiday experience. The guide’s focus on Scottish culture and landmarks adds depth to the festive sightseeing. It’s a higher-priced option, but you’re paying for a tailored, crowd-free experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups who want privacy, exclusivity, and a festive walk through Edinburgh’s most iconic sights.
$2,150 per group up to 4
How to Choose Your Christmas Tour in Edinburgh
When picking the ideal Christmas experience, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want an all-in-one, multi-day adventure that includes accommodation and full itineraries, go for the Private 6-Day Christmas Tour. For a more intimate, customizable exploration, the Private Customized Tour or the Edinburgh’s Enchanted Walkabout are excellent choices. Shorter options like the Gingerbread Walking Tour suit those on a tight schedule or traveling with family.
Think about whether you prefer a group or private experience, how much walking you’re comfortable with, and if you want a fully guided or more flexible visit. Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours during the Christmas season, as Edinburgh’s festive events draw crowds.
Edinburgh offers a delightful mix of historic sights, festive markets, and local traditions, making it a fantastic Christmas destination. Whether you opt for a detailed multi-day tour or a quick private walk, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and cherish. For a truly memorable holiday, consider booking one of these top-rated experiences—just don’t wait too long, Edinburgh’s holiday magic sells out fast.