Immerse yourself in the historic heart of Edinburgh by strolling along its most iconic street and through its ancient passages full of secrets.
We'll start on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and walk down the Royal Mile, entering its famous closes: narrow alleys steeped in history, legends, and everyday life. These spots have seen centuries of transformation, and even today they retain the essence of the medieval city.
Along the way, you'll discover places like Bakehouse Close, Dunbar's Close, and James Court, authentic settings where you can relive the stories of merchants, poets, thinkers, and ordinary citizens who shaped the soul of the Scottish capital.
We'll tell you about key figures such as George Drummond, the driving force behind the New Town; Allan Ramsay, whose poetry left its mark on the Scottish identity; and Adam Smith, a pioneer of modern economics. You'll also hear stories of everyday life in the alleys: from the activity of artisans to the social evolution that shaped the modern city.
We'll also visit gardens hidden among the old buildings, true oases of calm in the heart of the historic center, which unexpectedly connect the city with nature.
During the sightseeing tour, we'll show you period images to help you imagine what these spaces were like centuries ago and how they've changed over time.
We'll end in front of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with the option to continue exploring the palace and its abbey on your own, or to climb Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh's most famous hill.
An experience to rediscover the city from its most hidden corners, with stories that aren't in the guidebooks. Come explore the Edinburgh that only the alleys can tell you about!