Edinburgh Magical Christmas Tour and Experience

A magical winter wonderland awaits you in Edinburgh at Christmas. Twinkling lights adorn the city, festive decorations abound, and a bustling market offers unique gifts and delicious treats. Each year, the iconic Edinburgh castle hosts a breathtaking light show set against a starry sky, while the Botanical Gardens become a magical winter wonderland. It's the season of ice skating rinks, funfairs, and carol singers. Enjoy a magical Edinburgh Christmas tour through the festive streets, visit The Botanical Gardens to see the best of Edinburgh's Christmas in the fresh Scottish Winter.
A glowing display of lights and vibrant colours adorns Edinburgh as darkness falls.

You'll explore the city on foot and in your premium tour van, so if it's icy and snowing outside, you can stay warm in the van, and our complimentary winter blankets and a complimentary dram of whisky will keep you cozy!

What to expect:

Duration: 6 hours

Edinburgh Castle

Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG

The Castle of Light festival transforms Edinburgh Castle, perched atop the volcanic crag, into a captivating wonderland. A spectacular display of light, sound, and projection mapping illuminates the historic site. (Friday / Saturday / Sunday) We will view the projections outside the castle.

10 minutes

Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh, EH1

In addition to the castle, the old town features magical displays such as the 'Edinburgh' sign and Christmas tree outside the School of Divinity, as well as many other festive sights.

20 minutes

Princes Street and Gardens

Edinburgh

Princes Street Gardens hosts the world-renowned Winter Market, where you can enjoy mulled wine and haggis along with handcrafted gifts and unique souvenirs. There are also thrilling rides at the market, including the Star Flyer and the Big Wheel, providing views of the city skyline.

20 minutes

Edinburgh

Edinburgh

As part of the tour, your tour guide will also share with you some of the stories, folklore, and traditions that are steeped in our history. Imagine what stories the walls would tell if they could talk!

20 minutes

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LZ

Discover a magical winter wonderland at the Botanics, where the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is transformed into a magical winter wonderland. A mesmerizing display of lights, colours, and sounds takes you on a journey through the gardens after dark.
As you stroll along illuminated pathways, you'll discover breathtaking installations, including twinkling trees, sparkling ponds, and magical tunnels of light that transport you to a magical world. There is a truly immersive and enchanting atmosphere created by festive music filling the air.

As you stroll through the city, keep your eyes open for a special appearance by Father Christmas. Enjoy an aromatic spiced winter warmer or a delicious hot chocolate at one of the cozy food vendors.

In addition to supporting the conservation work of the Royal Botanic Garden charity, Christmas at the Botanics is also an opportunity to celebrate the season. Attending this event helps protect plant diversity and ensure our planet's sustainability.

1 hour, 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Black Ivy

4 Alvanley Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 1DU, UK

In the final leg of our journey together, we will visit the Black Ivy Restaurant, a festive institution in Edinburgh. The much-loved Bruntsfield destination offers classic dishes to suit all tastes and dietary requirements, decorated both inside and out with festive decor. The festive menu at this contemporary restaurant features traditional favourites such as turkey with all the trimmings and Christmas Pudding for dessert.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included