Description

This is an introduction tour to the highlights of Edinburgh. Explore the historic capital of Scotland with a private guide. We can offer a short private tour of just 2 hours or a half day tour of 4 hour. Pick up can be from your hotel, the airport or cruise ship.

First we take a panoramic tour of the New Town establish in 1767. Edinburgh city centre is a UNESCO heritage site so all its buildings are protected to keep its historic appearance. The New Town features some of Britain’s best Georgian Architecture. Some highlights include Charlotte Square, George Street, St Andrew’s Square, Princes st, Sir Walter Scott Monument, Views of the Old Town Skyline and more.

We then take a short break at Holyrood Palace, home to the Royal Family when the visit Edinburgh. Originally built in 1500s its most famous resident was Mary Queen of Scots. In contrast across the road you see the modern Scottish Parliament building. Continuing the tour we take a tour around Arthur’s seat with great views of the city and surrounding area.

Then we take a tour of the old town and travel up the Royal Mile. Called so because the castle at the top and palace at the bottom. Edinburgh old town has over a thousand years of history so there are many stories to tell. From the Cannongate we travel to High st and then see a statue of the hero dog of Edinburgh; Greyfriar’s Bobby.

The tour can end after this or we can continue with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, walking tour of the old town, or go down to the waterfront. For more details contact us via the booking form.

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Why Choose This Tour
Go Scotland Tours offers a private panoramic tour of Edinburgh that is ideal for visitors who want to see the best of the city in a short time. Travelling by vehicle allows you to cover more ground and visit viewpoints that are difficult to reach on foot. Your qualified guide will explain the history of the Old Town and New Town, point out key landmarks and show you some of the lesser known corners of the city. All of our private tours are led by a Blue Badge Tourist Guide accredited by the Scottish Tourist Guides Association. This is the recognised professional standard for guiding in Scotland. It is a flexible way to explore Edinburgh and can be tailored to match your interests and pace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the tour
The panoramic tour 2 hours plus 2 hours for Edinburgh Castle. Or we can skip the castle and plan a 3-4 hour driving tour. This gives enough time to visit a range of viewpoints, drive through different parts of the city and make short stops for photos and explanations.
-What type of vehicle is used
The tour is operated in a comfortable private vehicle suitable for the size of your party. On Half Day tours we normally provide driver and guide. For small groups this is usually a car or people carrier. Larger groups can be accommodated in a minibus by prior arrangement.
- Is there much walking involved
This is mainly a driving tour with short stops at viewpoints and places of interest. There is some walking from the vehicle to photo stops and lookouts, but you can keep walking to a minimum if required. If you choose to add the castle then you will need to walk the incline to the entrance.
- Can the itinerary be customised
Yes, the route can be adjusted to include places that are of particular interest to you. You can focus more on history, architecture, views or certain parts of the city. Let us know your preferences when you book.
- Do you pick up from hotels or the cruise port
Pick up can usually be arranged from central Edinburgh hotels and from the cruise ports used for Edinburgh. Exact details will be confirmed at the time of booking.
- Are entrance fees included
This panoramic tour focuses mainly on exterior views and short stops. If you choose the option of entering Edinbugh Castle we can add the tickets.

Panoramic Tour of Edinburgh City Highlights

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Photo Attributes: 1. Xuanxu, 2. Citril, 3. Bernt Rostad, 4. icelight