Description

Enjoy a full day of touring Edinburgh. We begin with a tour of the New Town; one of the greatest areas of Georgian architecture in Britain. A planned town for the wealthy citizens of Edinburgh in the 18th century to move out of the cramped Old Town. Passing the Scott's Monument, aka the Gothic Rocket, into St. Andrew's Square with the old Royal Bank of Scotland headquarters and the unproportionate equestrian statue in front of it. Continue down George st to Charlotte Square, the birthplace of Alexander Graham Bell inventor of the telephone. Then onto Queen Street and Heriot's Row, the childhood home of 18th century novelist Robert Louis Stevenson (author of Treasure Island).

 Continue to the Grassmarket, in the shadows of the castle and once the place of execution, now famous as the lurking grounds of Burke and Hare. Next we see a glimpse of Arthur's Seat; the hill tower over the city.

We will then give you time to visit Holyrood Palace, Scotland's famous royal residence. Dating back to late 15th century began by James IV and finished by James V. Most known for the time of Mary Queen of Scots and her husband, Lord Darnley, publicly murdering her secretary Rizzio. It is still used by current royalty on their visits to Edinburgh so is not open every day during the year.

Across the road is the Scottish Parliament Building. Designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles with a theme of Scottish Landscape, people and culture. You can either have a photo opportunity or replace the visit of Holyrood Palace.

Edinburgh is the historic and culture capital of Scotland. This more than 1000 year old city has been the centre of the country for years.  The Royal Mile in the old town still holds much of its medieval feel, at the top of it is Edinburgh Castle. This imposing castle sits on top of a volcanic rock and can be seen virtually through-out the city. Walking thoughout the old town and its narrow closes (alleyways) you can imagine how it was during the medieval ages. In the centre of the Royal Mile is the heart of Midlothian which here many people were hung in the dark ages, it is ritual to spit in the heart as you walk by. Sitting in the same square is the Tron Kirk and St.Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh's religious focal points for about 900 years.

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Why Choose This Tour
Experience Edinburgh with a qualified Blue Badge guide who brings the city’s history to life, including a fully guided visit of Edinburgh Castle. The tour combines walking and driving, giving you access to both the Old Town’s hidden closes and the city’s best viewpoints. With a separate driver and guide, you can be dropped off close to key locations without worrying about parking. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your interests. Cruise ship pick up is also available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours and includes a mix of walking and travel by private vehicle.
- What will we see?
Typical highlights include the Old Town, Royal Mile, New Town, Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle and key viewpoints. The route can be adapted to your interests.
- Are admission tickets included?
Yes, we can include a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Tickets do not need to be purchased in advance as we can add them to the final cost.
- Is the tour accessible?
Edinburgh has steep streets and cobblestones. Drop off at the castle esplanade is not possible, so the walk up involves a steady uphill incline for around 10–15 minutes. A mobility car is available at the esplanade, and taxis can also drop you there if needed. We can adjust the itinerary based on mobility requirements.
- Where is pick up for this tour?
Pick up is available from your hotel or accommodation in Edinburgh, or from your cruise ship. Cruise port pick up is available from Queensferry, Rosyth, Newhaven and the Port of Leith.
- Can we customise the itinerary?
Yes. We can add on the Royal Yacht Britannia or any other attraction you have in mind. Just let us know and we can create your own tour.
- Is this a private tour?
Yes. This tour includes both a driver and a separate guide. This allows the driver to drop off the guide and your group anywhere in the city without needing to worry about parking.
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See the very best of the Capital of Scotland!!!

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