Food tours in Edinburgh are the perfect way to discover Scotland’s capital through its flavors and traditions. The city’s best culinary walks connect visitors directly with local markets, historic pubs, and family-run eateries. These small-group experiences typically run 3-4 hours, with most tours covering the Royal Mile and New Town districts.
The top experiences include classic Scottish tastings tours (perfect for sampling haggis, whisky, and shortbread), seafood walks along the historic port of Leith, and contemporary food crawls featuring modern Scottish cuisine. I especially love the Old Town tours that combine history with hearty comfort foods – they’re informative and filling!
Let’s explore the standout food tours that showcase Edinburgh’s rich culinary heritage.
Key Points
- Edinburgh offers a variety of food tours, including walking tours, secret tours, plant-based tours, luxury private tours, and comprehensive culinary experiences.
- Food tours typically last around 3 hours and provide an immersive experience showcasing local cuisine, with options to accommodate various dietary needs.
- Tours feature knowledgeable guides, small group sizes, and highlight local specialties like haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as traditional afternoon tea and whisky tastings.
- Many tours are wheelchair accessible and offer flexible booking options, including free cancellation policies.
- Overall, food tours in Edinburgh receive positive reviews for their quality, engaging storytelling, and the opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For those seeking to enjoy the culinary delights of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers an engaging and delectable experience.
Priced at $123.11 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, this 3-hour small-group tour explores the city’s unique cuisine. Participants can savor traditional dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as sample Scotch whisky, all while learning about the history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
The tour includes afternoon tea and accommodates dietary restrictions.
With positive reviews highlighting the quality of the food, well-planned itinerary, and memorable experiences, this tour is a must for foodies visiting Edinburgh.
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Edinburgh: Plant-based Food Tours of the Old Town
Edinburgh’s Old Town offers a captivating plant-based food tour that immerses visitors in the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
This 3-hour guided experience, limited to just 10 participants, focuses on Scotland’s ethical and sustainable food scene. Guests will explore local eateries, sample traditional and contemporary plant-based dishes, and learn about Edinburgh’s past, present, and future through the lens of food.
The tour, priced at $70.10 per person, can be booked with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 16 and requires comfortable shoes and clothing. Confirm tour availability before booking.
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Edinburgh Luxury Private Food & Drink Tour With Eat Walk Tours
Indulge in a luxurious private food and drink tour of Edinburgh with Eat Walk Tours. This 2-4 hour experience showcases locally sourced dishes and drinks, extending beyond the Royal Mile to explore the city’s rich history.
With audio headsets for a personalized experience, you’ll receive recommendations for the best bars, restaurants, museums, and galleries. Though non-refundable and non-changeable, the tour boasts an impressive 5.0 rating from 216 reviews praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Choose from English, German, Cantonese, and three additional languages for this convenient, fast, and paperless experience. Visit the Viator Help Center for more details, including product code 72560P4.
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A Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour. Includes All Food & Drinks
Foodies looking for an immersive experience will delight in the A Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour. This 4-hour tour takes participants on a culinary journey through the city, with a three-course meal, tasting samples, and a whisky tasting all included.
The tour is limited to just 10 participants, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. Highlights include dining at a restaurant near Edinburgh Castle, visiting local cheese mongers, and ending with a traditional Scottish dessert, Cranachan, paired with wine.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and suitable for adults, though not recommended for children under 12. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour With Eat Walk Tours
Embarking on an immersive culinary adventure, the Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour with Eat Walk Tours invites travelers to explore Scotland’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Priced at $120.52 per person, the 3-hour tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible booking options.
Showcasing Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, the small-group experience features multiple food stops, including drink tastings, and accommodates dietary requirements.
Engaging guides, like Tilly and Fran, enhance the tour with their extensive knowledge and charming storytelling, fostering a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
Participants can savor traditional Scottish dishes, whisky, and diverse culinary offerings, all while enjoying the camaraderie of the group and the vibrant culture of Edinburgh.
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Eat Like an Edinburgh Local!
Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Edinburgh’s vibrant food scene can enjoy the “Eat Like an Edinburgh Local!” tour.
This 3-hour guided food tour takes guests through the city’s Old Town, offering a minimum of eight local food samples. Priced at €241.14 for up to 2 participants, the tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine.
Participants can learn about Edinburgh’s rich culinary history, influenced by conquest, immigration, and trade. The tour visits both popular spots and hidden gems that define the city’s food culture.
With a live guide, the tour is conducted in English and features a reserve now, pay later option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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The 10 Tastings of Edinburgh With Locals: Private Food Tour
The “The 10 Tastings of Edinburgh With Locals” private food tour offers visitors an immersive culinary experience, guiding them through the city’s vibrant food scene.
Lasting 3-4 hours, the tour features 10 local specialties, including haggis, neeps, and tatties.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience blends food sampling with sightseeing, providing historical and cultural context.
Though some participants find the food quality inconsistent, the tour generally receives positive reviews for its engaging guides and unique insights into Edinburgh’s culinary heritage.
Accommodations are made for dietary restrictions, but the tour may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
With a starting price of $155.10 per person, the experience caters to those seeking an authentic taste of the city.
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Edinburgh Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Visitors can enjoy Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene on the private walking and tasting food tour with Secret Food Tours. This 3-hour experience showcases authentic Scottish fare, including haggis and Lowland Single Malt Whisky.
The tour also includes tasty treats, desserts, flavorful cheeses, tea, and scones. Participants can expect an intimate group setting, as the tour is private with only the booked group.
While the itinerary is subject to change, a moderate fitness level is required due to the hilly terrain. Priced at $434.13 per person, the tour has received exceptional reviews, with customers praising the exceptional guides and delicious food.
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Edinburgh: Food Tour With Drinks
For those seeking to enjoy Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary landscape, the 3.5-hour “Edinburgh: Food Tour with Drinks” offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced from $108.33 per person, this tour provides a perfect introduction for first-time visitors, allowing them to discover passionate artisan food producers and sample local delicacies like Cullen Skink, Haggis, and Cranachan.
The experience also includes drinks tastings of locally brewed beer, Scottish whisky, cider, and coffee. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores the Grassmarket, Victoria Street, and the Royal Mile, culminating in a guided whisky tasting in a private snug.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour is an excellent choice for those eager to indulge in Edinburgh’s renowned food and drink scene.
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Edinburgh Food Tour With a Local Foodie Custom & Private
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind 3-hour private food tour in Edinburgh with a local foodie guide. This fully customizable experience showcases the city’s local favorites and hidden gems.
Savor over 6 food tastings, including haggis and smoked salmon. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a flexible meeting point.
Your guide is matched to your interests via a short questionnaire, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour concludes back at the starting point, with public transportation nearby for convenience.
With a 4.0 rating from 18 reviews, this tour is highly likely to be recommended for its delicious local cuisine and friendly, knowledgeable guides.
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Edinburgh Food Tasting Tour With a Local
Embark on an immersive Edinburgh food tasting tour with a knowledgeable local guide. For $202.65 per person, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour journey through the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Taste regional delicacies, sip on a drink, and get insider tips on the best local eateries. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers a private group experience.
While reviews are mixed, the guide’s personable nature and knowledge of local cuisine are highlights. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
Just note that transportation and additional food and drinks aren’t included. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible way to sample Edinburgh’s flavors.
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Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour
This 3-hour guided tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene.
Guests can expect to sample a variety of Scottish delights, from neeps and tatties to haggis and Scottish cheeses. The tour also includes a tasting of a lowland single malt whisky and a traditional afternoon tea with local cakes and fudge.
With a knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the city’s rich culinary history and culture. Capped at 10 people, this tour offers a personalized experience.
Highly rated for its value, service, and organization, this 4.8/5 tour is a must for foodies visiting Edinburgh.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Vegetarian/Vegan Food Tour Options?
Vegetarian and vegan food tour options in Edinburgh include Vegan Food Tours, which showcases the city’s diverse plant-based cuisine, and Whisky & Vegan Tour, which pairs Scottish whisky with animal-free fare. These tours provide an immersive experience for those seeking meat-free dining options.
Can I Customize the Food Tour to My Dietary Needs?
Many food tour providers offer customized experiences to accommodate various dietary needs. Customers can often request vegetarian, vegan, or other specialized options to suit their preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and tailored tour.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Typical Food Tour?
Most food tours involve moderate walking, typically ranging from 1-2 miles. Tour operators are usually accommodating and can modify routes to suit participants’ needs and abilities. It’s best to inquire about the specific walking requirements when booking a food tour.
Are Food Tours Accessible for People With Mobility Issues?
Food tours can be accessible for those with mobility issues, but it depends on the specific tour. Many offer alternative options, like shorter routes or transportation, so guests with mobility concerns can participate. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when booking.
Do Food Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Private Parties?
Many food tour companies accommodate large groups and private parties, offering customized experiences to suit the needs of the group. Some may even provide special arrangements for those with mobility issues, ensuring an enjoyable and accessible tour for all participants.
The Sum Up
Edinburgh offers a range of food tours that cater to various tastes and preferences. From walking tours showcasing the city’s local cuisine to private luxury experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for traditional Scottish fare or plant-based options, these tours provide a unique and delightful way to explore the culinary delights of this vibrant city.