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5 (2)

Location Icon Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle VIP & Holyrood Palace Day Tour

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240

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Edinburgh in a Day Tour with VIP Early Access to Edinburgh Castle lets one uncover the best of Edinburgh without the usual crowds. This walking tour starts with a VIP early access visit to Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s famous landmark. An expert guide will lead one through centuries of history, sharing stories of the castle's past and significance.

The tour continues down the Royal Mile, where the guide brings the history of the city to life. Hear tales of famous characters and explore the hidden closes and historic landmarks that line the cobbled streets. The tour also includes a visit to Holyrood Palace, King Charles' official Scottish residence, where one can learn about the secrets of the monarchy with a self-guided audio tour.

This comprehensive tour includes a local English-speaking guide and an early access ticket to Edinburgh Castle. A self-guided audio tour of Holyrood Palace is also included. Hotel pick-up/drop-off and gratuities are not included. With skip-the-line access and expert guidance, this tour promises an immersive and efficient way to experience Edinburgh's most iconic sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Lawnmarket & St. Giles’ Cathedral, Royal Mile & Canongate, and Holyrood Palace. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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VIP Early Access to Edinburgh Castle: Skip the lines and explore Edinburgh Castle before the crowds arrive.

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Expert Local Guide: Hear fascinating stories and insights from an English-speaking guide.

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Royal Mile Exploration: Discover hidden closes and historic landmarks along Edinburgh's famous street.

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Holyrood Palace Visit: Explore the King's official residence in Scotland with a self-guided audio tour.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally love the tour for its early access to Edinburgh Castle and the guide's storytelling, making it a worthwhile experience to see Edinburgh's highlights, though some suggest allowing more time at certain stops. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Visitors loved seeing Edinburgh Castle without big crowds.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed the guide's stories about the Royal Mile.

    Positive Highlight Icon People found the tour a great way to see lots of places in one day.

    Positive Highlight Icon The early access to the castle was a favorite part for many.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some people wished they had more time at Holyrood Palace.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few visitors found the walking tiring.

The Journey

1

Edinburgh Castle

Step back in time with exclusive early access to Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress perched atop Castle Rock. Witness breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh awakening before the crowds arrive. Explore the iconic Crown Room, where the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels) reside, and delve into history within the Great Hall, adorned with arms and armour. Don't miss the serene St. Margaret's Chapel, Edinburgh's oldest surviving building, a testament to enduring faith and royal heritage.

2

Lawnmarket & St. Giles’ Cathedral

Wander through the vibrant Lawnmarket, a historic section of the Royal Mile, once a bustling hub for merchants. Pause to admire the Gothic splendor of St. Giles’ Cathedral, the High Kirk of Edinburgh. Its iconic crown spire dominates the skyline, and its interior reveals centuries of Scottish religious history and architectural artistry. Appreciate its stained glass windows and learn about its role in the Scottish Reformation.

3

Royal Mile & Canongate

Immerse yourself in the stories etched within the cobblestone streets and hidden gardens of the Royal Mile. Let your guide unveil the secrets of Edinburgh's past as you traverse this iconic thoroughfare. Continue to the Canongate, a historic district with remarkable 16th-century buildings and strong ties to the British royal family, exemplified by the Canongate Kirk. This area offers a glimpse into the lives of nobles and commoners alike who shaped Scotland's destiny.

4

Holyrood Palace

Conclude your Edinburgh adventure at Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the British monarchs. Explore the Palace's lavish state rooms, each echoing with tales of royal gatherings and historic events. Stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens, offering tranquility and stunning views. Discover the haunting ruins of Holyrood Abbey, a testament to Scotland's rich religious heritage, at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour, and imagine the lives of kings, queens, and courtiers who once walked these hallowed grounds.

Know Before You Go

This tour includes a local English-speaking guide and an early access ticket to Edinburgh Castle. A self-guided audio tour of Holyrood Palace is also provided. Please note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. Gratuities are also not included. Meetup is at Edinburgh Castle.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes, as this tour involves a good amount of walking. Also, bring a snack and water, as the tour lasts several hours. Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure one doesn't miss the VIP early access to Edinburgh Castle.

From £129 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.