5 (21)
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile & Palace: Day Trip
240
Overview
Edinburgh in a Day: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace lets visitors discover Edinburgh's royal past in one amazing day. This walking tour is great for history lovers who want to see the best of Edinburgh.
The tour starts with a guided visit to Edinburgh Castle. See the crown jewels and enjoy amazing views of the city. Next, walk down the Royal Mile with a guide. You'll stop at Lawnmarket, St. Giles’ Cathedral (outside), and Canongate. Depending on the day, the tour ends at either Holyrood Palace, where the British monarch stays in Scotland, or the Scotch Whisky Experience. At the Scotch Whisky Experience, taste a local whisky (available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 8th).
This experience includes a local English-speaking guide, entry to Edinburgh Castle, a whisky tasting (Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 8th), and entry to Holyrood Palace with an audio guide on most days. If an option is selected, pre-opening access to the Castle is provided. It does not include hotel pick-up/drop-off or gratuities. With thousands of 5-star reviews, this tour is a visitor favorite. This adventure will show the best of Scotland's capital city. 
Highlights
Explore Edinburgh Castle: See the historic fortress and enjoy amazing city views.
Walk the Royal Mile: Discover historic streets with an expert guide.
Visit Holyrood Palace: Explore the Queen's official residence in Scotland (most dates).
Taste Scotch Whisky: Enjoy a guided whisky tasting experience (Tue & Wed from Sept. 8).
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally praised the tour for its informative guides and efficient way to see Edinburgh's highlights, though some felt rushed at times.
Visitors loved the knowledgeable and engaging guides.
Many enjoyed the skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle.
The whisky tasting experience was a highlight for many.
The tour provides a good overview of Edinburgh's main attractions.
Some found the pace of the tour to be too fast.
A few visitors wished for more time at certain locations.
The Journey
Edinburgh Castle
Discover the formidable Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress perched atop an extinct volcano. Explore Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Opt for the Early Access experience for a VIP tour before the crowds arrive, ensuring an intimate exploration of this iconic landmark steeped in centuries of Scottish history and royal intrigue. Feel the echoes of battles and royal ceremonies within its ancient walls.
Lawnmarket & St. Giles’ Cathedral
Wander through the historic Lawnmarket, a bustling thoroughfare brimming with character and history, and admire the exterior of the magnificent St. Giles’ Cathedral. Listen to captivating stories shared by your guide, revealing the rich tapestry of events and personalities that have shaped this iconic area. Capture the essence of Edinburgh's past as you soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant and historically significant location.
Royal Mile Closes & Canongate
Uncover the hidden closes (narrow alleyways) branching off the Royal Mile, each whispering tales of Edinburgh's past. Continue to Canongate, an area steeped in royal history, and marvel at its exquisite architecture. Discover the stories behind its historic buildings and its enduring connection to Scotland's monarchy. Experience the unique charm and secrets that lie within these historic passageways and grand facades.
Holyrood Palace (or Scotch Whiskey Experience)
On most dates, conclude your tour with a visit to Holyrood Palace, the King’s official Scottish residence. Explore its opulent chambers and learn about the lives of Scottish monarchs with an immersive audio guide. Alternatively, on select dates when the Palace is closed (June 26th-July 4th) or on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 8th, indulge in the Scotch Whiskey Experience, a guided journey into the traditions, craftsmanship, and culture of Scotland's national drink. Each offers a unique window into the heart of Scottish heritage.
Scotch Whiskey Experience
On tours taking place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 8th, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Scotch whiskey at the Scotch Whiskey Experience. Delve deep into centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and culture, unraveling the secrets behind Scotland's iconic spirit. A guided tour will take you on a sensory adventure, exploring the diverse flavors and aromas that make Scotch whiskey so distinctive. A must for whiskey enthusiasts!
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a local English-speaking guide, entry to Edinburgh Castle, a guided whisky tasting (available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 8th), and entry to Holyrood Palace with an audio guide (most dates). Pre-opening access to the Castle is available if that option is selected. This tour does not include hotel pick-up/drop-off or gratuities. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point to begin your tour.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest wearing comfortable shoes, as there is a good amount of walking involved. Also, be prepared for potential weather changes and dress accordingly.
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