Edinburgh’s bike tours offer efficient ways to explore this compact Scottish capital. The best options combine exercise with sightseeing, letting you cover more ground than walking tours while avoiding traffic headaches.
Three standout tours deserve special mention. The Sky to Sea tour (4.5 hours) stands as our favorite, connecting hilltop views with coastal paths and offering both regular and e-bike options. For history buffs, the 3-hour Sightseeing tour packs in medieval streets and Georgian architecture with expert commentary. Families particularly enjoy the Coast Cycle tour (3 hours), which ends with a rewarding stop at Portobello Beach.
Let’s explore Edinburgh’s most worthwhile bike tours.
Key Points
- The Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour offers a 4.5-hour journey through trails and landmarks, with a choice of manual or electric bikes for all skill levels.
- The Edinburgh Sightseeing Bike Tour provides a 3-hour guided excursion from the city center to the sea, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about Edinburgh’s culture and history.
- The Edinburgh Cycle Tour to the Coast is a 3-hour family-friendly tour covering 12 miles, featuring historic sites, scenic views, and a relaxing break at Portobello Beach.
- The A Wee Pedals Circular Cycle Tour is a small-group experience covering 20 miles through hidden gems, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into Edinburgh’s history.
- The 20-Mile Cycling Loop Tour is a 4.5-hour tour exploring the Victorian Union Canal network, Leith Harbour, and Holyrood Park, led by knowledgeable guides focused on safety.
Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour With Choice of Manual or E-Bike
Although Edinburgh is renowned for its stunning architecture and historic sites, exploring the city by bike provides a unique and engaging way to experience its natural beauty as well.
The Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to do just that, taking riders on a 4.5-hour journey through picturesque trails, historic tunnels, and iconic landmarks.
With a choice between manual or electric bikes, the tour caters to cyclists of all skill levels, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Highly rated by travelers, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to enjoy Edinburgh’s diverse landscapes and rich history while staying active.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour With Choice of Manual or E-Bike Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bike Tour
For those eager to explore Edinburgh’s captivating sights and hidden gems, the Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bike Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Spanning 3 hours, this guided bike excursion takes you on a superb loop from the city center to the sea, showcasing the best of Scotland’s capital. Participants can choose between a standard bicycle or an e-bike, allowing for a customized experience.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories about Edinburgh’s history and culture, while cyclists discover urban centers, secret pathways, and stunning natural wonders.
With flexible booking, safety equipment, and overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an active and immersive way to experience the beauty of Edinburgh.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
A Wee Pedals Award-Winning Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh!
The award-winning A Wee Pedals Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh takes cyclists on an unforgettable journey through the city’s captivating landmarks and hidden gems.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this small-group tour (maximum six participants) offers a personalized experience as you explore off-the-beaten-path locations like Craigmillar Castle, Dean Village, Leith district, and Portobello.
With knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about Edinburgh’s rich history and culture while cycling through approximately 20 miles of scenic routes.
The tour includes manual bikes, helmets, and complimentary refreshments, with e-bike rental available upon request.
Suitable for those with moderate fitness, the tour promises an enjoyable and memorable cycling experience.
Read our full review: A Wee Pedals Award-Winning Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh! Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (Family Friendly)
Embarking on the Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (Family Friendly) is an excellent way to explore the city and its picturesque coastal areas.
This 3-hour guided tour covers 12 miles, allowing riders to cycle under Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, and visit historic sites like the Innocent Railway Tunnel.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, from bikes and helmets to child seats. Riders can also opt for an e-bike rental.
After exploring the city, the tour ends with a relaxing break at Portobello Beach.
With a 5/5 rating and glowing reviews, this family-friendly cycle tour is an ideal way to discover Edinburgh’s natural beauty and rich history.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (Family Friendly) Review
Book now: Check availability
A Wee Pedals Family Friendly Cycle Tour to Edinburghs Coast
With a 4.9-star rating and 100% traveler recommendation, the A Wee Pedals Family Friendly Cycle Tour takes riders on a delightful journey along Edinburgh’s picturesque coast.
Starting at 9:30 AM, the tour departs from the Bridgend Farmhouse Cafe, covering sights like Craigmillar Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the Scottish Parliament.
Suitable for families, the tour accommodates children using tag-a-long bikes. Cyclists can enjoy complimentary coffee/tea, and an optional seaside stop for ice cream or further refreshments.
The qualified guide provides historical insights throughout the gentle, 3-hour cycling experience, ensuring a memorable and safe outing for all ages.
With manual bikes, helmets, and gratuities included, this tour offers excellent value at £74.80 per person.
Read our full review: A Wee Pedals Family Friendly Cycle Tour to Edinburghs Coast Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: 20-Mile Cycling Loop Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive cycling experience in Edinburgh, the 20-Mile Cycling Loop Tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the city’s most captivating sights.
This 4.5-hour tour takes cyclists through traffic-free routes, including the Victorian Union Canal network, Leith Harbour, and Holyrood Park. Along the way, you’ll enjoy photo stops at historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes.
The tour is led by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who prioritize safety, and the mostly paved paths are suitable for confident cyclists aged 12 and up.
With a small group size, free cancellation, and a reasonable price, this award-winning experience is an excellent choice for those looking to see Edinburgh by bike.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: 20-Mile Cycling Loop Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour
This Scenic Bike Tour in Edinburgh takes cyclists on a captivating journey through the city’s most picturesque landscapes.
Spanning 3-4 hours, the tour explores highlights like the Scottish Parliament Building, Holyrood Park, and Arthur’s Seat. Riders can choose between regular bikes or electric upgrades, ensuring a comfortable experience across the varied terrain.
Along the way, they’ll discover hidden gems like the Innocent Railway Path and Duddingston Loch, all while enjoying stunning views of the coast and countryside.
The knowledgeable guides, like the acclaimed Turloch, provide an entertaining and informative experience, making this tour an excellent value for money.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Edinburgh offers a variety of bike tours to suit different interests and fitness levels. From scenic coastal rides to city sightseeing, there’s something for all. Whether you prefer a manual or electric bike, a family-friendly route, or a longer cycling loop, these tours provide a great way to explore the city’s stunning landscapes and landmarks. With knowledgeable guides and well-planned itineraries, these bike tours make for an enjoyable and convenient way to experience the best of Edinburgh.