Edinburgh’s lively pub scene isn’t just about enjoying a pint; it’s about experiencing the city’s character, history, and local flair. With centuries-old pubs lining the cobbled streets, a thriving craft beer movement, and Scotland’s world-famous whisky, Edinburgh offers a wealth of options for imbibers. I particularly like tours that combine storytelling with tastings—like the Edinburgh Pub & History Scot Beer Tour, which highlights Edinburgh’s brewing heritage and its resurgence as a beer hotspot. It’s a small-group experience that makes exploring the Old Town’s historic pubs both educational and fun.
If you prefer a lively night out, the Pub Crawl in Edinburgh provides a social, no-fuss way to sample multiple bars and clubs with skip-the-line entry, making it perfect for those wanting to see Edinburgh’s nightlife in style. Whisky enthusiasts should consider the Afternoon Whisky Tasting in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar, where you can sip four single malts in a cozy, historic setting.
Quick Overview
Edinburgh is ideal for pub crawls, beer tastings, and whisky experiences. Many tours focus on history, local brewing traditions, and lively pub atmospheres, with options like the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour blending culture and drinks. For a more energetic evening, tours such as the Edinburgh: 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts and The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl combine multiple venues with free shots and VIP access. Whiskey lovers will enjoy intimate tastings, like the Whisky Tasting and Storytelling in a Historic Pub.
Now, let’s explore each tour, what makes it unique, and who it’s best suited for.
1. Edinburgh Pub & History Scot Beer Tour
At number one, this small-group tour offers a personalized look at Edinburgh’s brewing heritage. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed walk through the Old Town with tastings at top pubs and beer bars. The tour visits The Canongate, once called the “Charmed Circle,” and highlights Edinburgh’s once-dominant bottled beer export history. The guide shares stories that reveal how Edinburgh’s brewing scene has been revived in recent years.
All beer tastings are included, making this a good value for those looking for an educational experience combined with a few pints. Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge, with comments like: “We fully appreciate the craft and complexity of local brews after just a couple of hours with Wag.” The tour lasts about 2 hours 15 minutes, making it perfect for a short, leisurely exploration.
Bottom Line: Best suited for beer fans interested in local history, good stories, and a relaxed pace.
2. Pub Crawl in Edinburgh
For a full night of socializing and exploring, the Pub Crawl in Edinburgh delivers. Over approximately six hours, you’ll hop at least five venues, skipping lines with VIP access. The tour kicks off at Pilgrim Bar, where you receive a welcome shot and a wristband for exclusive discounts. As you visit a variety of venues—ranging from lively pubs to music venues—you’ll meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
Reviews highlight the tour’s organization and fun atmosphere: “Will definitely be going back to some of the venues.” This tour is ideal for those wanting to maximize their nightlife experience without the hassle of planning. The combination of free shots, discounts, and social atmosphere makes this a lively, value-packed choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls who want to experience Edinburgh’s eclectic bar scene with new friends.
3. Edinburgh: Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots
This tour takes you to seven different bars in Edinburgh’s Old Town, with six specially chosen shots included. Guided by an expert, you skip cover charges and enjoy VIP entry at each pub. It offers a balanced mix of social fun and local flavor, making it well-suited for solo travelers or groups looking for a lively evening.
Guests praise the guide Robyn for her caring attitude and the variety of pubs visited, describing the experience as “unforgettable.” The tour lasts about five hours, which is enough time to get a good taste of Edinburgh nightlife while keeping it manageable. The focus on personalized shots and VIP access offers strong value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a lively, all-in-one pub experience with a knowledgeable guide.
4. Edinburgh: Old Town Guided Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
At number four, this tour combines history, architecture, and beer tasting. It explores Edinburgh’s Old Town and Southside, with stops at local breweries and pubs. The guide explains how beer money influenced city architecture and design, making it perfect for travelers interested in Scottish culture and local brews.
The itinerary includes visits to The Royal Mile, Grassmarket, and Canongate, with tastings of beers from across Scotland. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and is praised for its knowledgeable guide and engaging stops. Guests have noted that it’s a good way to see the city beyond the typical tourist spots while learning about beer’s role in Edinburgh’s development.
Bottom Line: Best for beer lovers who want a mix of city sightseeing and tastings with a cultural twist.
5. The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour
For literature buffs, this literary-themed pub crawl mixes Edinburgh’s writer history with a lively pub atmosphere. Led by actor guides, the tour journeys through Winds and courtyards where authors like Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J.K. Rowling found inspiration. You visit atmospheric pubs that inspired stories and characters.
Running about two hours, it’s a witty, engaging way to explore Edinburgh’s literary connections. Reviewers enjoyed the storytelling and actors’ performances, describing it as “an entertaining, witty romp.” It’s perfect for those who love books, stories, and a touch of theatrical flair with their drinks.
Bottom Line: Great for literary fans who want entertainment, history, and a spirited drink in atmospheric surroundings.
6. Edinburgh: 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts
This tour offers a full evening of entertainment across seven bars and clubs. You get seven free shots and discounts in each venue, plus VIP skip-the-line access. It’s a high-energy option that’s perfect for travelers looking to party and meet a diverse crowd.
Guests mention the energetic guide and the variety of venues, noting that “the overall experience was worth it” despite some venues requiring additional drinks for shots. The tour runs about five hours, making it suitable for those ready for a lively, boisterous night.
Bottom Line: Best for energetic travelers wanting a big night out with free shots and VIP treatment.
7. The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl
This large-scale pub crawl is Edinburgh’s most established, starting in 2013. Over four to six hours, you visit some of Edinburgh’s most famous pubs with a knowledgeable guide, enjoying six shots included in the package. It offers a mix of local stories, pub games, and socializing.
Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, with reviews pointing out the tour’s mix of fun and insider info. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife with a reliable, lively group.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those seeking a classic pub crawl with a friendly, social vibe.
8. Beer Tasting Session @ The Lost Close
If you’re interested in learning about Edinburgh’s beer styles, this small-group session is perfect. In a historic close, you taste a variety of beers and learn to identify different styles like light, golden, and darker roasts. The guide shares local brewing stories, making it both educational and atmospheric.
Guests mention the cozy setting and the “quirky, fun” guide, with many returning for the variety of beers offered. The session lasts about an hour, making it a quick yet rich experience.
Bottom Line: Best for beer aficionados wanting to deepen their knowledge in a historic setting.
9. Afternoon Whisky Tasting in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar
For whisky lovers, this 1.5-hour tasting in a traditional Edinburgh bar offers four single malts. Led by an expert, Neil, the tasting explores Scotland’s whisky regions and production methods. Reviews highlight Neil’s extensive knowledge and engaging style, making it suitable for both novices and connoisseurs.
It’s an intimate session, ideal for those wanting a deeper appreciation of Scotch whisky without the touristy crowds. The price reflects the quality of the whiskies sampled—good value for a focused, expert-led experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for whisky enthusiasts or first-timers eager to learn about Scotch.
10. Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour with “Real-Actors”
This theatrical pub crawl showcases Edinburgh’s literary legends such as Sir Walter Scott and J.K. Rowling, performed by professional actors. It’s about two hours of lively storytelling combined with visits to atmospheric pubs and courtyards.
Reviews praise the actors’ performances and the engaging way they bring Edinburgh’s literary past to life. It’s ideal for culture lovers who enjoy a bit of drama with their drinks.
Bottom Line: A lively, theatrical experience that combines Edinburgh’s literary history with pub hopping.
11. Edinburgh: Scottish Comedy Night at an Old Town Cocktail Bar
For those who like their drinks with a side of laughter, this comedy night features 4-5 acts performing in a historic cocktail bar. The intimate setting and live comedy make it a fun, relaxed way to spend the evening.
Guests love the quality of the acts and the cozy atmosphere, with some describing it as “a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.” It’s affordable and offers a different kind of entertaining night.
Bottom Line: Best for comedy fans who want a relaxed, fun night with drinks.
12. Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting and Storytelling in a Historic Pub
This two-hour experience combines whisky tasting with storytelling inside a historic pub. Led by a passionate local, you sample four whiskies while hearing tales about their origins, the craft, and Scotch traditions.
Guests mention the friendly, intimate setting and Neil’s storytelling as highlights. It’s great for those seeking a relaxed, educational whisky experience that feels authentic.
Bottom Line: Ideal for whisky lovers who want a cozy, storytelling-focused tasting.
13. Taste the Best Scottish Ales: Rose Street Private Pub Tour
This private tour focuses on Edinburgh’s historic Rose Street, offering tales of pub heritage alongside tastings of local beers, whisky, or wine. Over about three hours, you visit three pubs and learn about Edinburgh’s pub culture from a local guide.
It’s great for those who want a personalized experience and a taste of Edinburgh’s pub history. Reviewers mention the guide’s storytelling and the quality of the pubs visited.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups seeking a tailored pub experience with cultural insights.
$330.00 per person
14. Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
Harry Potter fans will love this combination tour. Starting with a walking tour of Edinburgh’s magical sites, you visit places that inspired Rowling’s stories. Later, enjoy a beer tasting featuring Scottish brews.
Guests appreciate the chance to connect Harry Potter lore with Edinburgh’s streets and sample local beers. The tour suits fans of both literature and good drinks, lasting about five hours.
Bottom Line: Great for fans wanting a magical city experience plus a taste of Scottish beer.
15. Edinburgh: Ultimate Pub Crawl Party with 7 Bars & 1 Club
This six-hour tour is designed for party animals. You visit seven bars and a club, with free shots, exclusive deals, and fun challenges. It’s high-energy and perfect for travelers wanting a wild night out with new friends.
Reviewers mention the guide’s energy and the lively atmosphere. It’s a great choice if your goal is a party-focused experience with VIP perks.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting to party late into Edinburgh’s nightlife scene.
16. Edinburgh’s Best Bar Crawl: Free Shots, Discounts, Photos
This budget-friendly option offers free shots, discounts, and free photos of your night out. It’s a five-hour experience perfect for making new friends and exploring the best venues in the Old Town.
Guests note the lively crowd and the fun photos, making it a good choice for social travelers on a budget.
Bottom Line: Ideal for social travelers looking for a lively, affordable pub crawl with memories to keep.
$11 per person
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interest in whisky or beer, your budget, and the kind of nightlife experience you seek. For in-depth whisky knowledge, the Whisky Tasting and Storytelling is excellent, especially if you like storytelling and a relaxed atmosphere. If you want to explore Edinburgh’s pub culture with a mix of history and local stories, the Edinburgh Pub & History Scot Beer Tour is a fantastic, educational choice.
For vibrant nights full of energy and socializing, the Ultimate Pub Crawl or the 7 Bar Pub Crawl with Shots are great options. Budget travelers may prefer the Pub Crawl with Discounts, which offers a lively experience at a lower price point.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like summer or festival periods. Many tours fill up quickly, and securing your spot ensures a smooth, fun experience.
Edinburgh offers an impressive array of drinking tours—from casual beer explorations to refined whisky tastings and energetic pub crawls. Whether you’re interested in learning about Scotland’s brewing history, dancing the night away, or getting a taste of literary and cultural stories, there’s something for every drinker. Consider your interests, budget, and preferred pace, and you’ll find just the right experience to make your visit memorable. Cheers!