Edinburgh isn’t just about medieval streets and historic landmarks; it’s a hiker’s playground with a surprising variety of outdoor experiences. Whether you prefer scenic walks in the Pentland Hills, conquering Arthur’s Seat, or venturing into the rugged Scottish Highlands, this city offers a trail for every level. We especially love tours like the Hill & Nature Hike for its mix of natural beauty, local insights, and the practicality of an all-day bus ticket. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and experience the true Scottish landscape. For those wanting a quick city escape, the Arthur’s Seat Hike delivers panoramic views and a taste of volcanic terrain just minutes from the city center.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the 13 best hiking and trekking tours in Edinburgh, giving you options from gentle city walks to challenging mountain ascents. We’ll help you weigh what makes each tour special so you can choose the perfect fit for your fitness level, time, and curiosity.
1. Hill & Nature Hike – Discover Real Edinburgh With a Local Expert
At number 1 is the Hill & Nature Hike, a 4 to 5-hour walk that takes you outside the city to explore the Pentland Hills Regional Park. This tour is ideal if you want to see authentic Scottish landscapes, spot Highland cows, and learn about the geology and history from a local guide. The inclusion of a free all-day bus ticket makes this tour particularly appealing—it lets you hop on and off at your own pace, making it flexible and budget-friendly. Many visitors rave about Rishi’s knowledgeable commentary and his care for travelers’ comfort. The hike covers 5-6 miles, with options for challenging peaks or gentle walks, and light snacks are provided.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a comprehensive, personal experience of Edinburgh’s countryside and a break from city crowds.
2. Edinburgh: Arthur’s Seat Hike with Local Guide
Number 2 on our list is the Arthur’s Seat Hike with Local Guide, a 2-hour walk that covers Holyrood Park’s most iconic feature. This tour is one of the most affordable and popular options, offering a manageable climb in a short time. Your guide will introduce you to the extinct volcano, medieval ruins, and Lochs, all while sharing stories about Edinburgh’s geology and history. The trail is accessible for most fitness levels, and the views from the summit are stunning—perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery. Guests mention how the guide’s insights make the experience memorable, even for those less experienced hikers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a quick, scenic, and educational outdoor activity close to the city center.
3. Edinburgh: Guided Hike to Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
Next, the Guided Hike to Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park offers a balanced 2-hour exploration. Starting from the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this tour combines visits to Holyrood’s scenic lochs and the climb to Arthur’s Seat via local trails. It’s a great option if you want a deeper dive into the park’s wildlife and geology, with a local guide leading the way. This route takes you off the beaten path, away from the bustling tourist routes. The highlight is reaching the summit at over 800 feet, where panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond await. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guide and the peaceful paths.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a slightly longer, more immersive experience that combines city and nature.
4. Edinburgh: Arthur’s Seat Sunset Hike
Watching the sunset from Arthur’s Seat is unforgettable, and this Sunset Hike makes it happen in style. For 2 hours, a qualified mountain guide will lead you up the hill, headlamps in hand for the descent after sunset. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for couples or solo travelers. The route avoids the most crowded paths, offering a quieter, more intimate experience with views over Edinburgh’s rooftops as the sky changes colors. Guests mention how the guide’s professionalism and the timing of the sunset add to the magic.
Bottom Line: Best for romantic evenings or photography enthusiasts wanting a scenic, peaceful end to their day.
5. Arthur’s Seat Hike: Sunset, Sunrise, Daytime
Number 5 provides a flexible opportunity to see Arthur’s Seat at different times of day. Starting in the city center, this 2-hour guided hike is perfect if you want to catch sunrise, sunset, or just enjoy a scenic walk during daylight. The guide customizes the route for your preferred time, taking you on quieter trails with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town, and the surrounding mountains. Reviewers appreciate the calm pace and the chance to experience the landscape in different lighting.
Bottom Line: Suitable for outdoor lovers looking for a customizable experience that fits their schedule.
6. Ben Nevis Hiking Day Trip from Edinburgh
For the more adventurous, the Ben Nevis Day Trip takes you into the Highlands for a full-day challenge. This 7-hour tour includes a guided climb of Britain’s tallest mountain, with a small group of up to 15 hikers. The trip covers scenic drives through the Scottish landscape, with a focus on safely tackling the ascent. Many guests call it a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, with spectacular views and a real sense of achievement. The tour is best suited for fit travelers with some mountain hiking experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious hikers craving a mountain summit and dramatic Highland scenery.
7. Edinburgh: Hill & Nature Hike With a Local
The Hill & Nature Hike With a Local offers a 4-hour journey into the Scottish Borders, exploring stunning moorlands, lochs, and native flora. Rishi, your local guide, shares insights on both nature and history, making this more than just a walk. The tour emphasizes Scottish Highland scenery and takes you off the beaten paths to discover unspoiled landscapes. Guests love Rishi’s storytelling and the chance to see Highland cattle and local wildlife.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of scenery, culture, and local stories away from city sights.
8. Edinburgh: Arthur’s Seat Hike with Mountain Guide
This guided Arthur’s Seat hike led by a qualified mountain guide offers a 2-hour adventure. It focuses on hiking off the beaten trail, avoiding busy crowds to enjoy the natural beauty of Edinburgh’s most famous volcanic hill. The guide shares expert tips on the best routes and looks after safety, making it suitable for all levels. Many reviews mention how the guide’s local knowledge and relaxed approach make the hike both fun and informative.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who want a guided, personalized experience on quieter trails.
9. Edinburgh: Guided Hike to Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill
Number 9 combines two iconic spots: Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill. This 3-hour guided tour starts from Howies Restaurant and takes you on a scenic route through Holyrood Park, including the Burns Monument and Scottish Parliament. The highlight is reaching the summit of Calton Hill for spectacular views of Edinburgh’s skyline. Reviews highlight how the guide makes the experience engaging and insightful, with plenty of photo stops along the way.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a taste of both natural and city views in one tour.
10. Small-Group Guided Hike of Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
This small-group tour offers a relaxed, more in-depth experience over 3 to 4 hours. Limiting groups to around 12 ensures personalized attention. The route explores Holyrood Park’s diverse terrain—lochs, grasslands, and panoramic viewpoints—culminating with the climb to Arthur’s Seat. Reviewers appreciate the detailed commentary and the chance to see hidden viewpoints and wildlife.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a leisurely, comprehensive tour with a small group.
$87
11. 4,000ft Mountain Hike in the Scottish Highlands
For those ready to leave Edinburgh’s city limits behind, the Highland mountain hike takes you into remote wilderness. This 12-13 hour adventure includes train travel, a guided trek up some of Scotland’s highest peaks, and spectacular scenery of lochs, glens, and mountain ranges. It’s a full-day commitment but ideal for experienced hikers craving solitude and jaw-dropping vistas. Reviews mention how well-organized this trip is, with plenty of time at the summit to enjoy the scenery.
Bottom Line: For seasoned hikers who want a serious Highland experience beyond Edinburgh.
$309.96 per person
12. The Ultimate Edinburgh City Hike including Old and New Town
Number 12 offers a comprehensive city walk that covers both historic districts and scenic parks. Over 3-4 hours, you’ll see Edinburgh Castle, Dean Village, Calton Hill, and hidden corners of the Old Town, with fewer crowds and more local stories. The small group setting and focus on walking rather than standing make this an engaging way to see more of the city.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want an immersive, in-depth city experience with some outdoor walking.
$87
13. Arthur’s Seat Hiking Tour with Local Guide
Lastly, this Arthur’s Seat tour is a classic—offering a 2.5 to 3-hour ascent with a limit of 12 people. It focuses on a relaxed pace, emphasizing Scottish folklore, panoramic views, and the volcanic landscape. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for sharing stories and tips about the area’s natural and cultural sites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a friendly, intimate hike combining scenery with local legends.
$30 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Edinburgh Hiking Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, time constraints, and interests. If you’re after a quick city fix, the Arthur’s Seat or guided city hikes are great options. For a full-day Highland adventure, the Ben Nevis is unmatched if you’re comfortable with strenuous activity. Budget-conscious travelers will find value in shorter, well-reviewed tours like the Sunset Hike, while nature lovers seeking peace should prioritize Hill & Nature Hike. Booking early, especially in peak seasons, ensures you don’t miss out on your preferred slot.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh’s landscape offers a surprising range of hiking options—from urban parks to mountain peaks. For a gentle introduction, the Arthur’s Seat provides iconic views without a long trek. If you want a more in-depth exploration, the Hill & Nature Hike or small-group Holyrood Park tour give you richer insights and access to quieter paths. For the seasoned hiker, the Highland mountain trip offers a rugged adventure far from the city.
Whatever your style, these tours open up Edinburgh’s spectacular landscapes in ways that go beyond the typical sightseeing. Booking early and choosing the right fit will ensure you make the most of your outdoor time in Scotland’s capital.