Edinburgh: 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts

Exploring Edinburgh’s Nightlife Through a 7-Bar Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to experience Edinburgh after dark without the hassle of planning each stop, the 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts offers an engaging way to dive into the city’s vibrant bar scene. For around $16 per person, this tour packs in a lot: seven different venues — from cozy pubs to lively clubs and live music spots — with the promise of free shots, exclusive drink deals, and VIP access that skips queues. It’s a well-rated experience (368 reviews averaging 4.5/5) that seems to strike a good balance between fun, affordability, and authenticity.

What really makes this crawl stand out is how it’s designed to introduce visitors to some of Edinburgh’s favorite local hangouts, rather than just tourist spots. Plus, many reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides — like Ál and Alvaro — make all the difference with friendly, attentive service. I appreciate that the experience is scheduled for five hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy without feeling rushed, and the fact that entry to all venues is free of cover charges is a significant perk.

A potential consideration is that some bars require you to purchase another drink to receive your free shot, which might catch you off guard if you’re expecting a straightforward shot at each stop. Still, with the variety of venues and the opportunity to meet travelers from around the world, it’s an experience that many find worth the price. This pub crawl offers a lively, well-organized way to see Edinburgh’s nightlife, especially if you’re into socializing and discovering hidden gems.

Key points / Takeaways

• Diverse Venues: You visit seven different bars, clubs, and live music spots, giving you a taste of Edinburgh’s local nightlife.
• Free Shots & Discounts: Get seven free shots, handpicked by the guides, plus discounts of up to 25% on drinks, which adds great value.
• Skip-the-line VIP Access: No queues and free entry at every venue means more time enjoying the night, less waiting around.
• Guides Make It Special: Guides like Ál and Alvaro are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, making the experience smoother and more engaging.
• Meet Fellow Travelers: Reviews highlight how the tour is a fantastic way to meet people from various countries, especially for solo travelers.
• Flexible & Convenient: The 5-hour duration and the option to reserve with flexible payment make it accessible for different schedules.

Discover Edinburgh’s Nightlife: The Inside Scoop

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The pub crawl begins downstairs at The Tron bar, where guides are ready with a large check-in sign. This central meeting point makes it convenient, especially after a day of sightseeing. The activity lasts about five hours, a perfect window to experience multiple venues without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, since all venues provide free entry and skip queues, you avoid the hassle of lining up and paying cover charges, which can sometimes be a hidden cost in busy cities.

The Middle of the Night: What to Expect

Once underway, you’ll hop from pub to pub, each with its own vibe. Many reviewers note that the selected bars offer a good variety — from relaxed pubs to lively clubs. Expect to start with a burst of energy, as your guide hands out the seven free shots, carefully chosen to set the tone for the evening. Some bars require ordering another drink to receive the free shot, which is not always clear upfront, so be prepared for that small extra purchase.

The guides, like Ál and Alvaro, are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. They keep the group moving, ensure everyone’s having a good time, and handle any questions or needs with care. I particularly like how some reviewers mention their guides’ attentiveness — from making sure solo travelers feel included to managing the group’s pace.

The Pubs and Clubs: Variety and Atmosphere

The venues visited are highlighted as offering different styles and atmospheres that showcase Edinburgh’s local flavor. From cozy, traditional pubs to lively music venues, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Many reviews emphasize the fun group dynamic and the chance to bond over shared drinks and stories. The discounts of up to 25% on drinks help stretch your budget, making it easier to enjoy the night without overspending.

Tips from the Reviews

Several travelers mention the importance of knowing that some bars require purchasing an extra drink to receive the free shot — something to keep in mind if you’re watching your budget. Also, starting the night early in Edinburgh’s bustling scene maximizes your experience, allowing you to stay longer or explore other parts of the city afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for solo travelers wanting to meet new people, first-timers eager to discover Edinburgh’s nightlife, or anyone looking for a lively, social evening without worrying about logistics. If you love discovering hidden local spots and enjoy a good mixture of music, drinks, and friendly guides, this pub crawl offers good value for the price.

Long-Term Value and Authenticity

What sets this crawl apart is how it combines fun with an authentic feel. It’s not just about drinking — it’s about soaking in the atmosphere, discovering local favorites, and enjoying the company of fellow travelers. Many reviews mention the guides’ local knowledge and enthusiasm, which adds that extra layer of authenticity.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider It?

If you’re after an energetic way to explore Edinburgh’s nightlife with a friendly group and some great perks, this pub crawl fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for those who want to meet people from around the world, experience diverse venues, and benefit from discounted drinks and skip-the-line access.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more individual experience or are on a tight budget, you might find some bars require extra purchases, and the group setting could feel overwhelming. Still, for most visitors, especially those looking for a memorable night out without the stress of planning, it’s a compelling choice.

FAQs

Is this pub crawl suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main focus is on drinks, non-drinkers can still enjoy the social atmosphere and the guides’ company. However, since most of the experience revolves around alcohol, it may not be ideal if you’re abstaining.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately five hours, giving you enough time to visit all seven venues comfortably while still enjoying the night.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during busy periods. You can also reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility.

What should I bring?
A valid passport or ID card is required for age verification, and comfortable shoes are a good idea since you’ll be on your feet most of the night.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the experience is not suitable for children under 18 years. You’ll need to present ID to prove your age.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how the guides and group atmosphere make solo travelers feel welcome and included. It’s a great way to meet people from all over the world.

This pub crawl provides a lively, authentic look at Edinburgh’s nightlife, making it a worthwhile option for those eager to enjoy a memorable, social evening. With helpful guides, diverse venues, and great value, it’s a fun way to see the city through the eyes of locals and fellow travelers alike.