Join us on this festive tour of Edinburgh only available in December! As darkness descends, Edinburgh comes alive with vibrant colours and mesmerising festive displays. Immerse yourself in a symphony of light and sound as the medieval city and new town unfold before your eyes.

This tour explores the city both on foot and in your premium tour van, so if it’s icy and snowing outside, you can stay cozy in the van and warming winter blankets are provided with our compliments.

As part of this tour you will also meet ‘the big man’ himself, Santa Claus.

Festive Edinburgh

As well as visiting Edinburgh’s most loved and celebrated festive event, we will also show you the many festivities that the city offers in December. From the giant illuminated ‘Edinburgh’ sign on The Mound in Old Town, to the winter garden and markets in Princes Street Gardens, there are many sights and instagramable scenes to warm the heart and fill your camera on this magical tour.

Edinburgh’s Winter Festival

Located within the world-famous Princes Street Gardens, the winter market features stalls offering delicious treats like mulled wine and haggis as well as handcrafted gifts and unique souvenirs. The market also features thrilling rides, including the Star Flyer and the Big Wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Edinburgh Castle & The Old Town

Edinburgh Castle perched atop the volcanic crag, transforms into a captivating wonderland during the annual Castle of Light festival. This enchanting event illuminates the historic site with dazzling displays of light, sound, and projection mapping. We’ll visit the castle from the outside and see the projections on show (Friday / Saturday / Sunday).

Beyond the castle, the old town offers magical displays including the iconic ‘Edinburgh’ sign and Christmas tree outside the School of Divinity and many other sights that will fill you with festive cheer.

Edinburgh Highlights

As well as all the festivities,  your tour guide will also share with you some of the stories, folklore and tradition that is steeped in our history. If the walls could talk, they’d tell stories that make the mind boggle!

Christmas Light Show at the Royal Botanical Garden

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Christmas at the Botanics, where the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland. This captivating after-dark experience takes you on a journey through the gardens, illuminated by a mesmerizing display of lights, colours, and sounds.

As you wander along the illuminated pathways, you’ll encounter breathtaking installations, including towering trees adorned with twinkling lights, shimmering ponds reflecting the festive glow, and magical tunnels of light that transport you to a world of wonder. The air is filled with the sounds of festive music, creating a truly immersive and enchanting atmosphere.

Along the way, keep an eye out for a special appearance by Father Christmas, adding a touch of festive magic to your evening. Warm up with a delicious hot chocolate or a spiced winter warmer from one of the cozy food vendors, and savor the moment with loved ones.

Christmas at the Botanics is also an opportunity to support the important conservation work of the Royal Botanic Garden charity. By attending this event, you’re helping to protect plant diversity and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

Spot Santa Claus

During this tour you will also meet Santa Claus at a secret location in Edinburgh. He’s a busy man and his elves are busy collecting all the letters from the children of Edinburgh, but he will make a surprise appearance as part of your tour!

Festive Christmas themed dinner at Black Ivy 

Towards the end of our tour together we’ll visit Black Ivy Restaurant, a festive institution in Edinburgh. Adorned with an array of festive decorations both inside and out, this much loved destination in the sought-after Bruntsfield neighbourhood offers classic dishes to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. Welcoming you into the warmth of this contemporary restaurant, their festive menu includes all the traditional favourites, including Turkey with all the trimmings and Christmas Pudding for dessert.

Please note the Botanic Gardens events is self-guided. Your tour guide will ensure fast-track entrance and meet you again afterwards for the next step of the magical festive adventure!