Edinburgh Full-Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our comprehensive private guided Edinburgh tour is a fantastic way to explore the big sights and hidden gems of the Scottish Capital City on a full day private tour.
Your friendly and knowledgeable driver guide will show you around Edinburgh's many sights onboard your private Mercedes Minivan. Hear the stories that make Edinburgh famous and learn about the cities often gruesome past. We'll venture through the historic old town, Royal Mile, Georgian new town and explore local areas full of history outside the city centre. We'll visit the impressive Forth Bridges. We will tell you the stories and history that make each attraction come to life!
Our vehicles are the perfect size to squeeze down the city's narrow streets and see the 'off the tourist trail' sights whilst still being spacious.
You can customise the itinerary to your interests and your knowledgable guide will ensure you get the most from your day.
Available options
Edinburgh Full-Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Kilt-wearing professional local guide
Bottled water for each guest
Transport by private air-conditioned minivan
Live commentary on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A comprehensive tour of the medieval old city and Edinburgh’s dark history, learn about the effect of the Black Death, great fire and city developments that lead the world.
2
Stop 2
The Royal Mile that runs for a Scottish mile (around 1.1 statute miles / 1.8 kilometres) through the heart of the old town from the Castle to the Palace.
3
A large scale development built in Georgian times in part to relieve the hugely over-populated city and in part to provide an enlightened new city.
4
Stop 4
The official residence of the British Monarchy in Scotland. The impressive entrance courtyard and Palace dominate the scene including the Queens Gallery next door.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
The modernist Scottish Parliament is home to the devolved national government. Immediately adjacent the Palace, the architectural juxtaposition is stark!
6
Stop 6
The extinct volcano that can be seen from all corners of the city. If open, we will drive round Queens Drive which offers fantastic views beyond Edinburgh.
7
Once a separate village behind Arthur’s seat, Duddingston Village and the Sheep Heid Inn have an interesting history. Learn about the ‘Sheepie’s’ famous clientele.
8
Stop 8
From the top of Calton Hill see the world-famous view over Princes Street and Castle. Calton Hill boasts some quirky and interesting architecture including the unfinished National Monument of Scotland.
9
Stop 9
Technically a separate town, the extensive docks around Leith and Shore are intertwined with cobbled lanes, tramways and bond buildings.
10
Stop 10
Leith is home to The Royal Yacht Britannia, a floating museum to the monarchy. Depending on your preferences, we can take a tour onboard.
11
Venturing out of the city we arrive at South Queensferry, a quaint town on the banks of the River. Marvel at the Victorian Forth Rail Bridge and the recent Queensferry Crossing road bridge.
12
Stop 12
Explore the sinister past as the hanging place for Edinburgh’s criminals. There are many famous stories about executions that your guide will recite.
13
Stop 13
The old city is dominated by Castle hill. Venturing inside the castle, we learn why it is so important in Edinburgh’s, Scotland’s and Britain’s history. Explore the Royal Chambers, Great Hall and St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.
A tour of the castle can be included in the tour as per your preferences.
14
We venture to this sleepy hidden neighbourhood underneath Dean Bridge. Take in the surroundings and cross the bridge over the Water of Leith
What's not included
Entrance fees to attractions and monuments
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
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2
1★
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Tripadvisor
4.9
60 reviews
5★
59
4★
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3★
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1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Historical
2-3 hours
£18 (adult), £11 (child)
Royal Mile
A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Several hours to explore fully
Free to walk, attractions vary
Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours (hike)
Free
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.
Historical
2 hours
£19 (adult), £10 (child)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan.
Scotch Pie
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.
Snack
Contains meat.
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Irn-Bru
Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.
Drink
Contains caffeine and sugar.
Popular Activities
Hiking Arthur's Seat
Kayaking on the Water of Leith
Cycling the National Cycle Network
Afternoon tea at The Dome
Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden
Strolling along Princes Street Gardens
Exploring the National Museum of Scotland
Visiting the Scottish National Gallery
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket
By bus
Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
New Town
Leith
Day trips
Lothian
10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day
Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Fife
30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day
Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.
Stirling
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.
Festivals
Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August
Edinburgh International Festival • August
Hogmanay • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
- Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
- Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
- Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
- Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
