Edinburgh is a truly enchanting capital city. Synonymous with the nation’s ancient culture, the capital of Scotland is also visually spectacular, bristling with elegant architecture and hallmarks of a long and turbulent history. Whilst unashamedly proud of her past, Edinburgh is alsoforward-looking, home to modern Scottish politics, a dynamic social scene and the mother of all international cultural festivals.
The city’s skyline is dominated by Edinburgh Castle, an imposing fortress which appears to grow organically out of the ancient volcanic rock upon which it perches. Throughout history the castle has played host to a procession of sieges, battles, plots and treacherous monarchs and is still home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the myth-enshrouded “Stone of Destiny”.
Surrounding the castle, Edinburgh’s old town clings to the hillside, a rambling network of cobbled streets and lanes to be explored. The highlight is the romantic Royal Mile, a bustling cobbled strip of historic tenements, inns and souvenir shops. At the foot of the mile, Holyrood Abbey and the Palace of Holyrood House await; once home to the tragic Mary Queen of Scots, this opulent palace remains the British Monarch’s official residence in Scotland. Close-by is the contrasting, ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, completed in 2004 it has since been the home of Scottish politics and is definitely worth a tour during your visit. The old town is home to much of Edinburgh’s vibrant pub scene with traditional and themed pubs lining the streets, and the whole area is alive during the renowned Edinburgh Festival which takes place annually throughout the month of August.
Shopping is a pleasure in Edinburgh; the main commercial thoroughfare, Princes Street, is a wide avenue, flanked on one side by the picturesque Princes Street Gardens and all in the shadow of the magnificent castle. Along Princes Street you will also find a number of cultural highlights including the twisting spires of Scot Monument, the National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Scotland which showcase both Scottish and international works including Titian and Monet.
Stretching the other side of Princes Street is the elegant “New Town” home to wide avenues of grand Georgian town houses and garden squares which contrasts perfectly with the winding alleys of the Old Town. Fine examples are the grandiose George Street and Charlotte Square which is home to both the First Minister of Scotland’s official residence and the restored “Georgian House” which recreates life in the late 1700’s when the area was first settled.
To capture stunning views of the city in all its glory, you can climb one or both of the areas of high land either side of the city. Carlton Hill overlooks the new town and is home to the stunning Nelson and National Monuments, whilst the famous “Arthur’s Seat” sits at the highest point of the glorious Holyrood Park, an area of diverse parkland right on the doorstep of the city and a favourite for walkers and hikers.
The outskirts of Edinburgh also offer some renowned sights not to be missed. At the rejuvenated Leith Docks in the North you will find the glorious “Royal Yacht Britannia”. Craigmillar Castle, located to the South of the city, is a fine example of a 15th century Scottish fortress with ties to Mary Queen of Scots. Finally, a true gem which was thrust into the limelight following the 2006 Da Vinci Code movie, Rosslyn Chapel in the village of Roslin just 7 miles south of Edinburgh is intricately decorated and today still holds Masonic and Templar connections making it a truly intriguing visit.
Soaking up the history of Edinburgh and its surrounds is a “must” during any visit to Scotland.
A succinct Scotland Driving Tour – Our Simply Scotland itinerary offers you a great introduction to this enchanting nation. In the course of just a few days you’ll experience the rugged landscapes of Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands and the magical capital city of Edinburgh. Highlights along the way include historic Stirling, Loch Lomond, the West coast and Scotland’s most famous body of water - Loch Ness.
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Enjoy the sights and sounds of the contrasting cityscapes of the British capitals in Cardiff, Edinburgh and London. Travelling by rail you can maximize your vacation time by gliding between these cultural centres in super-quick time.
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A Scottish small group tour - Enjoy this comprehensive tour of Scotland, a captivating land of contrasts which is both aesthetically beautiful and historically fascinating. From Edinburgh to the remote islands of Skye and Mull, enjoy dramatic coastlines, towering mountains, shimmering lochs and heather covered highlands all richly peppered with castles, abbeys and ancient sites which tell the tale of Scotland's intriguing and often turbulent history.
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An Orkney Coach Tour - Enjoy a journey through majestic Highland scenery and explore Scotland's remote islands on this comprehensive tour of Scotland. Experience the tranquillity of the Isle of Skye, the undiscovered wilderness of the Isle of Bute, the dramatic landscapes of the Northern Highlands and the ancient pre-history of the Isle of Orkney, not to mention the beautiful city of Edinburgh.
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A Scotland Small Group Tour - Enigmatic landscapes of lochs, glens and soaring mountains are amongst Scotland's diverse treasures just waiting to be uncovered on this tour. Explore the heart of Scotland and historic Scottish Borders regions to discover dramatic landscapes, fascinating stories and long-standing traditions - if you're looking to discover Scotland's hidden gems and lesser-travelled regions then this is the tour for you.
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This Britain Small Group Tour takes you from London to Edinburgh providing the full British history and culture experience along the way. See Oxford and the Cotswolds, shop at Chester's Rows, wind through Wales' stunning Snowdonia National Park, enjoy medieval York and explore Wordsworth's Lake District before finally visiting mysterious chapels and stately homes in the Scottish Lowlands.
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A Great Britain driving tour - experience all that is great about Britain on the ultimate tour of England, Scotland and Wales. See it all, from the thriving capital cities of London, Edinburgh and Cardiff to the remote Scottish Highlands, tranquil Lake District an d spectacular Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll experience diverse cultures and histories and see world-famous landmarks including Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Cardiff Castle, the Cotswolds, Hadrian’s Wall, Loch Ness and Edinburgh Castle.
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A Scottish Islands Coach Tour - A truly unique experience, venture off the beaten track on this journey of discovery to Scotland's enchanting Western Isles. The Outer Hebrides lie on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and are home to some of Britain's most remote communities, wildest landscapes and an ancient Gaelic culture. Our journey will take us from the bright lights of Glasgow and Edinburgh and to the wilderness of no fewer than six of Scotland's remote islands including Barra, Benbecula, Lewis and Harris.
View this tourA Premium Scotland Tour - explore Scottish history, highlands and heritage by day and indulge in quality Scottish hospitality by night on this enchanting journey through Scotland. From the heart of Scotland to her rugged Highlands, Scottish Supreme offers a comprehensive touring itinerary coupled with a mixture of high-end and boutique overnight hotels providing the very best of Scottish welcomes.
View this tourEnjoy this comprehensive tour of Scotland, a captivating land of contrasts which is both aesthetically beautiful and historically fascinating. From Edinburgh to the remote islands of Skye and Mull, enjoy dramatic coastlines, towering mountains, shimmering lochs and heather covered highlands all richly peppered with castles, abbeys and ancient sites which tell the tale of Scotland's intriguing and often turbulent history.
View this tourA Scottish Castle Driving Tour - Experience Scottish hospitality at its traditional best on this exclusive tour staying in sumptuous and historic castle and manor-house hotels. This itinerary takes you from historic Stirling and Edinburgh to the remote Mull of Kintyre and the dramatic West Coast to the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands. Along the way you’ll experience the very best of both Scotland’s landscapes and heritage. Enjoy included admission to dozens of historic attractions by day and the utmost of comfort and character at your accommodation each night.
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A Britain Escorted Tour - Spend ten days exploring the very best of Britain on this journey to discover the nation's highlights. We'll stay in the exciting captial cities of London, Edinburgh and Cardiff and in between we'll discover Britain's historic charm and beautiful landscapes. Highlights include Royal Windsor, the rustic Cotswolds, Medieval York and the Lake District.
View this tourAn exclusive luxury Britain coach tour - Discover the essence of Britain through knowledgeable experts and passionate locals introducing you to stories of Britain from past to present. Visit significant destinations once frequented by British greats such as Shakespeare and renowned kings. Travel in style on this elegant tour, and spend your evenings in a hand-picked selection of exclusive hotels. Enjoy travel through England to Scotland, whilst relishing in a range of VIP experiences such as the Tower of London for a private viewing of the Ceremony of the Keys, Edinburgh castle and visits to royal gardens. On route visit the Georgian city of Bath and the mesmerising dales of the Lake District on this relaxing, well-paced tour is a trip of a lifetime.
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Travel from Edinburgh to London through England's historic Eastern regions where the Celts, Romans, Angles and Vikings all left their marks. On this Eastern England small group tour we'll discover rich and contrasting history and culture as we explore the cathedral cities of Durham and York, drive through the stunning and remote landscapes of the Yorkshire Moors and the Peak District and wind our way through the colleges and cobbled streets of Cambridge. On route we'll encounter hidden villages, stately homes and Royal Palaces.
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A Comprehensive Britain Tour - This elegant excorted coach tour of Scotland and England evokes a bygone age; discover traditional villages, stately homes, historic castles and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a leisurely touring pace with two-night stays in each overnight destination. With expertly planned day excursions or city tours from your accommodation bases, not to mention a fabulous array of local visits, this tour is designed to showcase each region in depth. A truly engaging and well balanced itinerary of Britain.
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A Brief Scotland Tour - Enjoy a flavour of Scotland visiting the principal cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and a night in the enchanting Scottish Highlands. Along the way you'll experience the highlights of Scottish history, heritage and natural beauty - you’ll enjoy a loch cruise, sample single malt whisky at a Highland distillery and indulge in a traditional Scottish night of food, music and dance.
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A Driving Tour to Skye – Our Skye and the Highlands tour does what it says on the tin offering an itinerary which takes you away from the bustling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Experience the enigmatic scenery of Glencoe Valley, Scotland’s West Coast and the majestic isle of Skye. Then onwards along the Great Glen to the capital of the Highlands itself! Along the way you’ll see sparkling lochs and ancient castles, the perfect Highland escape.
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A Britain Castle Tour - Indulge in the history and heritage of England, Scotland and Wales by day and see its character reflected in your unique and distinguished accommodation each night on this deluxe tour of Britain. With your overnight accommodation in quality castle or manor house hotels, your tour will take you through the elegant cities of York, Bath, Oxford and Edinburgh as well as the natural beauty of the Cotswolds, the Yorkshire Moors, the Scottish Lowlands and the mountains of Snowdonia.
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A driving tour of England and Scotland - indulge in a unique trip taking in two of Britain’s most unique nations. Your self-drive vacation will take you through the rural landscapes of England and Scotland before returning your vehicle in Edinburgh and returning to London by rail. The trip will take in the beautiful landscapes of the Cotswolds, Yorkshire, Lake District and Scottish Highlands not to mention a host of elegant cities including York, Glasgow, Edinburgh and London.
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A brief tour of Britain – discover the essence of Britain on this whirlwind escorted coach tour taking you from the South of England to Scotland. Enjoy a journey of contrasts from the bustling cities of London and Liverpool to the historic elegance of Bath and Edinburgh. Along the way you'll see the natural beauty of the English Cotswolds and the Lake District as well as Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon and the very Royal Windsor Castle.
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Classic Britain - a snapshot of the countryside and historic cities of England, Scotland and Wales. Enjoy the rolling hills and thatch villages of the Cotswolds to the towering mountains and fortresses of North Wales. Pass through the lakes and dales of the English Lake District and the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands and Yorkshire Dales. Historic cities to explore on route include Regency Bath, Medieval York, and the capital cities of Edinburgh and London.
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Ride the scenic Scottish rail routes through the heart of the nation to the stunning Highlands and back again taking in some of Scotland's most visited heritage towns and cities along the way. The Heart of Scotland tour takes you from the Grampian Highlands and the Cairngorm National Park to Stirling, Inverness and the beautiful capital of Edinburgh.
View this tourScottish Highlands Coach Tour - Enjoy this leisurely trip of Scotland which focusses on the spectacular history, culture and scenery of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Discover a host of iconic and lesser known Scottish castles, the seats of royalty and ancient clans, cruise on misty lochs and take a stunning highland rail journey. The leisurely pace offers stays of a minimum of two nights in each location.
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Travelling by train explore central Scotland and three of her iconic cities; uncover stark contrasts as you uncover the dynamic urban centre of Glasgow and the historic charm of Stirling not to mention the nation’s famous capital in Edinburgh.
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A Royal Tour of Britain - Sweeping through a land rich in history and tradition, this small group journey takes in bustling cities and picturesque villages, rolling green hills and rugged coastlines. As the name suggests this tour is specifically designed to visit many Royal sites and connections across the UK including opulent palaces, Royal residences and grandiose castles. From the gates of Balmoral to Buckingham Palace explore the historic streets of Edinburgh to the excitement of London, one breath-taking step at a time.
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Scenic Britain Tour - Get off the beaten tourist track as you journey from Windsor to Edinburgh through the beautiful West of Britain. Explore England’s picturesque coastal counties of Devon and Cornwall, see unrivalled vistas in Wales’ Snowdonia National Park, pass through the majestic Lake District and tour two of Scotland’s most elegant cities in, Edinburgh and St Andrews.
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A Complete Britain Tour - Enjoy the highlights of Britain on this leisurely 15-day tour which takes you from the far South West of England to Scotland’s St Andrews. On route discover national icons such as Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle and Windsor Castle alongside more “off the beaten path” destinations as you explore the coast and countryside of Devon and Cornwall, the mountains of North Wales and the remote towns and dales of Yorkshire.
View this tourOne of our best Scotland Driving Tours – Scotland Explorer offers a comprehensive itinerary taking you on a journey to the corners of this beautiful nation; see Scotland from the bustling cultural and historic cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh to the expansive wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. From the rugged beauty of the West coast and Isle of Skye to the cultural sites of the East Coast and Aberdeenshire. Along the way see sparkling lochs, towering mountain ranges, ancient castle ruins, and whisky distilleries – a truly Scottish experience.
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A Scotland Coach Tour - Experience the Scottish Highlands and the heart of Scotland on this eight day journey through this small but characterful country. From the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the remote Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, the Cairngorms and central Scotland, you'll see ancient clan seats, baronial manors, remote castles, royal palaces, ancient battlefields, malt distilleries and the spiritual home of golf.
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Experience some of Britain's most spectacular and scenic rail journeys as you explore Scotland and the Highlands by train. Cross the Glenfinnan viaduct on the famous West Highland way and visit famous destinations including the Isle of Skye, Inverness and the capital city of Edinburgh.
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Discover English and Scottish landscapes and heritage on this rail journey through two great nations. Taking you from vibrant London to romantic Edinburgh and a host of English and Scottish towns and cities on route, you'll also enjoy the British countryside at its most majestic.
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