Edinburgh, Scotland
The vibrant Scottish capital provides visitors with a transition from the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town to the modern architecture of its contemporary buildings. Experience gourmet dining, charming pubs, stylish cocktail bars, top-notch galleries, and a thriving arts community.
Begin with a walking tour of Old Town starting at the Castle Esplanade for the best view of the city. Then head down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. En route, explore the shops, pubs, and alleyways that lead off the Royal Mile.
The top section of the Royal Mile is known as Castlehill, and the location of Edinburgh Castle where you can stop and learn about the significance of this magnificent structure. From here you can also enjoy stunning views of the city.
Other Highlights Include:
St. Giles' Cathedral
Victoria Street
The National Museum of Scotland
Princess Street
The Scott Monument
Cadenhead
St.Stephen Street
Dundas Street
The Scottish Gallery
Take a stroll through the alleyways of Mary King's Close and discover the history of the Black Death, a deadly disease that wiped out a third of the population during that period.
Explore a guided walking tour that showcases sites that inspired scenes in Harry Potter, like the charming Victoria Street, believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley.
Dean Village, located just a short distance from the city center, presents a charming stroll along Hawthornbank Lane next to the Water of Leith, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
The Royal Yacht Britannia is a luxurious ship that once hosted the Royal family on their grand voyages around the world. Now permanently moored at Ocean Terminal in Leith just fifteen minutes from the city, is one of the top tourism destinations in the UK. Step aboard the ship, take a peek at the state apartments, and have tea on the royal deck.
Outside of the city, take a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel, famously featured in The Da Vinci Code.
You can also walk around Roslin Glen Country Park and visit Melrose Abbey.
The Scotch Whisky Experience sits at the top of Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, right next door to Edinburgh Castle. There are different types of tours to choose from, with some offering whisky tastings to enjoy at the conclusion of the tour, as well as a regular bar and restaurant.
The Gold Tour gives the chance to view the collection and to learn about the production of the spirit from the comfort of a whisky barrel ride. All participants will become members of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society and, assisted by experienced guides, will compare and contrast four regional single malts whilst relaxing in the beautiful McIntyre Gallery. By the time you leave, you will be able to sip like a true connoisseur!
For the true whisky enthusiast, the Morning Masterclass allows an extended guided viewing of the whisky collection over coffee and shortbread. A fun sensory perception test then prepares for a comparative tasting of one blend, one single grain and two single malt whiskies, and the nosing of a new-make spirit.
Both experiences include a complimentary boxed crystal whisky tasting glass.
The Scotch Whisky Experience is also suitable for children; upon conclusion of the tour, children are offered Scotland’s national soft drink, Irn-Bru, for tasting.
For fans of the popular Outlander series, picture yourselves retracing the steps of Jamie and Claire alongside a local Scottish guide, exploring the actual filming locations in person. Journey to iconic spots featured in the hit series like Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, and Linlithgow Palace.
Just over an hour’s drive out of Edinburgh, on the way to Glasgow if heading there, are the magnificent equine sculptures known as The Kelpies. A half-hour guided walking tour explores the vision of artist Andy Scott and demonstrates how his 30 metre high designs were inspired by the history and industry of the region.
Edinburgh is served by several cruise ports. All of the ports are located around the Firth of Forth (the estuary of the River Forth). Small cruise ships can dock either at Leith or at Rosyth. Larger ships, which cannot get under the Forth Rail Bridge, will anchor and tender passengers into South Queensferry or New Haven. You can get into the city by shuttle bus, taxi, guided excursion or an arranged transfer.
Rosyth: 30 minutes into the city
Leith: 15 minutes into the city
South Queensferry: 30 minutes into the city
New Haven: 15 minutes into the city
