Edinburgh Luxury Private Day Tour with Scottish Local
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Edinburgh Luxury Private Day Tour with Scottish Local

Active
(23 reviews)
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your Edinburgh Private Day Tour takes in the stunning capital of Scotland. Edinburgh is our hometown, and like a lot of locals we are proud of our city.

As your tour is private you call the shots, enjoy the sights & attractions of Edinburgh at your pace. You will take in all the major sights & attractions our capital has to offer, from our mighty castle and cobbled back streets to The Royal Palace along with stunning views from Holyrood Park and over the Forth of Firth we can cover all Edinburgh locations.

With so many places to visit our tour allows you to visit the parts of Edinburgh you want to see, just remember this is Your Day, Your Way!

With Door to Door service from any Edinburgh location or Cruise Terminal and customisable your day is planned in advance to ensure you visit the locations you want, some locations require tickets to be pre-booked along with seasonal opening times.

You will be required to walk parts of the tour due to no access for vehicles in the city.

Available options

Edinburgh Tour + Walking Tour

Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour: Guided Private Walking Tour of the Edinburgh Royal Mile with an experienced guide (60 to 90min)<br/>Pickup included

Edinburgh Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Wi-Fi Access
Services & Stories of a Scottish Driver
Door to Door Service from Edinburgh Cruise Terminals

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Follow in the footsteps of Royalty and explore this floating Royal residence with a fascinating audio tour of five decks.

The Royal Yacht Britannia played host to some of the world’s most famous people, from Nelson Mendela to Winston Churchill, but above all was home for the British Royal Family for over 40 years. Now berthed in Leith, Edinburgh, you can discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.

You'll receive a truly warm welcome at Britannia's Visitor Centre in Ocean Terminal before you step aboard this famous ship where you will discover the history of Royal Yachts and view displays and historical photographs of Britannia's fascinating past before boarding The Royal Yacht Britannia.

What will you see?

Tour Britannia’s five decks
Feel like the captain of the ship in the Bridge
See Queen Elizabeth II's favourite room- the Sun Lounge
Discover below decks in the Crew’s Quarters
Take in the Royal Sailing Exhibition

2

The initial plan for Edinburgh’s New Town was approved by the City Council in 1767, and is the largest complete example of town planning from the Georgian period anywhere in the world. Its mixture of classical architecture, grand squares and terraces, gardens and secluded lanes, means that a walk through its streets is a journey back in time to an age of elegance.

Highlights of the New Town
Charlotte Square, designed by the architect Robert Adam in 1791, is regarded as an architectural masterpiece. Here you can visit the Georgian House and gain some insights into daily life from 200 years ago.

In nearby George Street the Assembly Rooms, which date from 1787, is still used for concerts, dancing and entertainment. At the opposite end of George Street is St Andrew Square, where the gardens are now open to the public.

3
Stop 3

Calton Hill and the National Monument are situated in Central Edinburgh, east of Edinburgh's New Town.

Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill has some of the city's best views and if you get up early, the best sunrises.

Calton Hill is also resident to some iconic Scottish monuments and buildings. Monuments include the National Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, Nelson's Monument, the Old Royal High School, Robert Burns Monument, Political Martyrs' Monument and also the City Observatory.

The City Observatory is now home to Collective, a free, contemporary art space with a programme of world-class exhibitions, events, workshops and discussions from ground-breaking local and international artists.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

Take a Drive through Holyrood Park and around Arthurs Seat the extinct volcano overlooking Edinburgh with some spectacular views.

If feeling adventurous you can take a hike to take in unparalleled vistas of the city, this takes around 45min to complete so may require changes to the itinerary for the day if required.

Access to the Park is subject to Seasonal Schedules and Weather Related.

5
Stop 5

Photo Stop - The Palace of Holyroodhouse The official residence of the King in Scotland. Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Explore the Palace's close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it is used by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. At the Palace of Holyroodhouse, visitors can explore magnificent historic and State Apartments, the beautiful ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey and remarkable royal gardens, all with a complimentary multimedia tour in 10 languages.

Today, the State Apartments are used regularly for State ceremonies and official entertaining. The Palace is closed when in use by the Royal Family.

If you wanted to Tour the Palace Itinerary will need to change.

6
Stop 6

As you depart The Palce of Holyroodhouse you will walk the Royal Mile up to the historic Castle.

Edinburgh's Royal Mile is the heart of Scotland's historic capital. Running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, with the splendorous Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Mile is overlooked by impressive, towering tenements, between which cobbled closes and narrow stairways interlock to create a secret underground world.

Peppered with superb attractions and historical sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city, the Royal Mile offers much to see and do. A great location to stop and take lunch whilst taking in some Scottish hospitality.

The Royal Mile is explored on foot, due to vehicle restrictions in the city, your driver will meet you after completeing the mile and Edinburgh Castle stops. They will be on hand if the walk is a little too much to drive to the Castle Stop.

7
Stop 7

Explore Edinburgh Castle at your own pace, our castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away.

There are many ways to experience Edinburgh Castle. Go straight to an exciting part, follow an itinerary, or allow an audio guide to show you around.

Edinburgh Castle is alive with exciting tales of its time as a military fortress, royal residence and prison of war. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two.

Exploring Edinburgh Castle is a highlight of any Scottish adventure, memories will be created and long remembered.

On completion of your time here you will walk out of the gatehouse and down to Old Town.

8
Stop 8

Once a medieval market place and site for public executions, the Grassmarket area is now a vibrant area buzzing with eclectic shops. Its detailed medieval architecture, stunning castle views and dynamic atmosphere make it one of the city’s most-loved areas, frequented by tourists, students and professionals alike.

Though Grassmarket executions ceased in 1784, some of the traditional area’s pubs, such as The Last Drop and Maggie Dickson's, keep alive the bloody tale of a chequered past. The White Hart Inn has played host to some famous patrons, including Robert Burns.

Fashion fans will uncover a wealth of gems at Armstrongs Vintage Emporium, a haven of retro clothes and quirky accessories, while Fabhatrix offers beautiful hand-made hats and accessories, perfect for a Scottish summer shower or winter frost.

Your Edinburgh Day is now complete, with all that walking your luxury vehicle and Scottish driver will chauffeur you back to your accomodation or cruise ship

What's not included

Gratuities (Passenger Discretion)
The Royal Yacht Britannia
Edinburgh Castle

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
12 reviews
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Tripadvisor 4.9
11 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
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1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Edinburgh Royal Mile - This is explored on Foot Only

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

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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