Edinburgh, known as “The Rome of the North,” is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Your boutique hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the medieval streets, lush gardens, Georgian architecture, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle. You’ll also enjoy a unique Scotch whisky tasting experience, and a ghostly underground walking tour, right in the heart of the city.
Edinburgh Castle sits on an ancient volcanic plug that’s been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Feel the past come alive as you see the Scottish Crown, the Sword and Scepter, the Stone of Destiny, and the Crown Jewels. Visit legendary Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, and the Scottish Borderlands on unforgettable day tours. This 4-day experience is Edinburgh at its finest.
4-Star Georgian Townhouse Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.
Included Unique Activities
Meet & Greet Private Airport Transfer - Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Your tour includes a private transfer from Edinburgh Airport to your Downtown Hotel. Once you have picked up your luggage, proceed through to the Arrivals Hall to meet your driver. You will be quickly escorted outside, where your ride awaits. Before you know it, you will have arrived at your Downtown Edinburgh Hotel, completely bypassing endless searching for the right airport shuttle, bus, or taxi.
Suggested Sightseeing
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: The Royal Mile is located in Old Town Edinburgh, and runs between Edinburgh Castle & Holyrood Palace.
It has a number of famous historical sites and buildings, as well as an impressive array of shops, restaurants, and pubs. (The Royal Mile is actually more than a mile by 107 yards.) There are several independently named streets that connect, making up the Royal Mile. These are Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Cannongate, and Abbey Strand. The major attractions on the Royal Mile are Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, The National Museum of Scotland, and Camera Obscura—Scotland's oldest purpose-built attraction.
Edinburgh Castle, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile, at the west end of Edinburgh's Old Town.
From its lofty position on Castle Rock, the castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline. There has been a fortification of some kind here for thousands of years. The castle has existed through layers of time and history, and it is indeed magnificent. Having etched the city’s skyline for 800 years, the Castle is a national symbol. A vital part in Scotland’s historic struggles, the castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the legendary 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O' Clock Gun, and the National War Museum of Scotland. In addition to guided tours provided by the castle stewards, there is an audio guide tour available that takes you around the castle, explains its architecture, and tells its dramatic history.
National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: The National Museum of Scotland is located on Chambers Street, in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh. Just a few minutes from the Royal Mile, Chambers Street links George IV Bridge and South Bridge.
The National Museum’s forte is artifacts from around the world. The recently opened, new modern Museum of Scotland, is a small miracle; it is dedicated to the story of Scotland and her people. The museums have different personalities, but they sit right next to each other. Together, they have one of the finest collections in the world. The rarest antiquities in Scotland create a treasure trove for the senses and imagination.
Some highlights include: Ivory chessmen made by invading Vikings in the 12th century; holy relics, one linked to St. Columba and Iona, and the other to Robert the Bruce; a staff carried by St. Fillian in the 8th century, one of the finest examples of artistry from 1,200 years ago; The Maiden, a 16th century guillotine; Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Canteen—everything he needed to travel and dine in style; Egyptian mummy cases, decorated with symbols of death and resurrection; and a 3,500-year-old Egyptian toy mouse with string that would have been pulled by a child. When it walks the tail wags!
Old Town Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Both New Town and Old Town Edinburgh became a World Heritage Site in 1995, listed as such for their architectural and historic importance. In fact, both are an indelible part of Scotland’s story. Edinburgh’s medieval Royal Mile begins at Edinburgh Castle and runs to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The north is bordered by 18th century New Town, including Princes Street.
Beside Edinburgh’s haunting Castle, Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile is one of Old Town’s oldest buildings; it was a cultural hub for more than 500 years. On the second floor, you can try on Georgian fashions. Descend to the first floor, and you’re in the home owned by wealthy spice traders of the 17th century. You’ll see their living space, kitchen, stock room, and the tavern that they ran. The 1620’s Scottish Renaissance wall decorations and ceiling paintings are original. Enjoy the café in the tradition of these last traders, with tea and cake.
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.
From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.
Arrive at
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport, Central Scotland
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport. If arriving from the U.S., please note that your flight is overnight.
Edinburgh is a small airport, ensuring that your experience there is a pleasant one. The airport is located 8 miles west of downtown Edinburgh, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to make the journey by car or bus.
Overnight Location
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.
From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.
Day 2
Accommodation
4-Star Georgian Townhouse Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.
Included Unique Activities
The Scotch Whisky Experience Silver Tour
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
This is the perfect introduction to the world of whisky! Enjoy a guided tour, plus a nosing and tasting, of Scotch whisky (or soft drink) in the world's largest collection of Scotch Whisky. Ideal for families and first timers. This tour includes the production of whisky, an introduction to the aromas in whisky, a dram of Scotch whisky (Irn Bru for under 18's), viewing the world's largest collection of Scotch whisky, and a gift of a crystal whisky tasting glass (adults only).
Ghostly Underground Walking Tour
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
A fun and light-hearted daytime walking tour of the Blair Street Underground Vaults – Edinburgh’s most haunted vaults, which Mercat Tours has exclusive access to. This spooky Edinburgh ghost tour is the ideal way to peek into the city’s ghostly past, and remember… things don’t only go bump in the night!
The true history of the Blair Street Underground Vaults is terrifying enough – so abandon thoughts of manufactured frights and make-believe. The skill is in the storytelling: these vaults witnessed the deeds of mischief-makers and murderers, vagrants, and torturers. It’s one of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites, where restless spirits still tread to this day.
Follow your cloaked Mercat Tours storyteller through the shadowy closes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. These dark and dreary streets are untouched by daylight, filled with a strange silence – their damp walls carrying only the faintest echo of the crowds on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
With the scene set, you’ll descend into the depths of the city – and listen in horror to the dark and sinister events which took place over the years. Torture. Murder. Hangings. From body snatchers to real-life characters of the city, you’ll be gripped by the true tales that lie hidden beneath Edinburgh’s streets, in the underground vaults.
Suggested Sightseeing
Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: The Palace of Holyrood House is located in the heart of the City of Edinburgh. The famous Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle at its western end and Holyrood to the east.
The official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty The Queen, this beautiful palace sits at the bottom of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, sheltered by Arthur’s Seat. Holyrood has many strong ties in Scottish history, and is well-known for being the home of Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors can view the stunning Royal Apartments, which show the different tastes of each monarch with fine plasterwork ceilings and decadent furnishings. On a tour round the palace you can see the Great Gallery, hung with portraits by Jacob de Wet, of the real and legendary kings of the country, and see the display on the Order of the Thistle, the highest honour in Scotland. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the historic Holyrood Abbey ruins, and learn of the building’s fascinating history through the centuries from its beginnings in 1128. The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during July, August and September when we are open 7 days a week.
Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: The Britannia is berthed at Ocean Terminal, Leith - just 2 miles north of the heart of Edinburgh. Majestic Tour Buses depart regularly from Waverley Bridge in the centre of town, and stop at the Royal Botanic Gardens en route.
Discover the floating palace that served the British Royal Family for over forty years from 1954. This magnificent ship has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, she was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. The Queen played a large role in the design of the ship, personally approving plans and choosing the furniture and decor. She was once quoted as naming the yacht as the one place she could truly relax. Now in Edinburgh you are welcome on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences. Experience what life was like on board The Royal Yacht Britannia with a fascinating audio tour of five decks. Highlights of the tour include the elegant State Apartments, the Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room and the stunning Royal Deck Tea Room. Complimentary audio guide in 22 languages. Open year round with free parking at Ocean Terminal.
Camera Obscura, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Camera Obscura is located in the heart of Edinburgh. Right on the Royal Mile and only 100 metres from the entrance to Edinburgh Castle.
Camera Obscura is Scotland’s oldest purpose-built attraction, originally established in 1835. There's certainly something for everyone in this unusual and highly entertaining venue. Enjoy unique views of Edinburgh from the fascinating Camera Obscura and rooftop terrace. In World of Illusions, experience five floors of interactive hands-on fun, including The Vortex Tunnel, Mirror Maze and Shrinking Room. At Light Fantastic, be dazzled by the spectacular collection of 3D holograms. In The Magic Gallery, interact with incredible things like floating sweets, Victorian bendy mirrors & fish that swim on the floor! Get involved, play with & touch everything.
Overnight Location
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.
From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.
Day 3
Accommodation
4-Star Georgian Townhouse Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.
Included Unique Activities
Loch Lomond National Park, Kelpies & Stirling Castle
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
A day spent in the land of Scottish heroes Rob Roy, Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, this award-winning small group tour departs Edinburgh at 9:15am and heads for Stirling Castle (pictured). The magnificent castle, perched dramatically on volcanic rock was for centuries known as the 'Key to Scotland', and as you view the surrounding countryside from the battlements, you'll understand why. This was the scene of William 'Braveheart' Wallace’s greatest triumph, the battle of Stirling Bridge, where he defeated the English army in 1297. Thereafter the tour continues into the beautiful forested hills of the Trossachs - Scotland's first National Park, and stop for lunch in Aberfoyle. Replete with shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops and forest-filled glens, it’s easy to forget that the Trossachs was once a dangerous frontier, fiercely contested by the territorial Highland clans. The tour next takes you along the eastern shoresheads, along the remote and spectacular road to Inversnaid, on the 'bonny, bonny banks' of spectacular Loch Lomond. Here you can enjoy the view of the loch from the Inversnaid Hotel. Alternately, you can walk along part of the West Highland Way, in the famous outlaw footsteps of Rob Roy McGregor, to enjoy spectacular views of Loch Lomond. From here, the tour returns to Edinburgh after a fantastic & varied Scottish experience.
Inclusions: Entrance to Stirling Castle. Transport in an air-conditioned, 16-seater Mercedes mini-coach with an experienced and storied Rabbie's driver-guide. Exclusions: Meals and refreshments. Entry fees to visitor attractions other than Stirling Castle.
Suggested Sightseeing
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Central Scotland
On The Map: Loch Lomond is located in Central Scotland, approximately 20 miles northwest of Glasgow. The main A82 road runs along the west shore of the lake en route to Fort William and beyond to Inverness. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, comprising 720 square miles, became Scotland’s first National Park in 2002. Originally made famous by the novels of Sir Walter Scott in the early 1800’s, the Trossachs have been enjoyed as the “Highlands in Miniature” by travelers since that time. For two centuries, people have come here to walk, climb, cycle and sail, to breathe fresh clean air, and immerse themselves in the wonder of nature. The landscape ranges from the uplands of Breadalbane to the sea lochs of Argyll. Included within its area is the whole of Scotland's largest loch, Loch Lomond. The northern end of the loch is deep and narrow, with mountains on either side, including Ben Lomond. The southern half of the loch is more pastoral and home to many islands. The surrounding mountainous areas include 21 ‘Munros’ (individual mountains over 3000ft); 20 ‘Corbetts’ (individual mountains over 2,500ft); and two forest parks. For the very best of the Trossachs, consider the route of the Duke’s Pass from Aberfoyle to Loch Katrine.
Stirling Castle, Central Scotland
On The Map: Stirling is located in the town of Stirling in Central Scotland. Stirling is less than 45 minutes on the M80/A80 from Glasgow to the southwest & 1 hour on the M9 motorway from Edinburgh to the southeast.
Stirling Castle sits high on a rocky crag above the town. It is a magnificent castle and is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland. Stirling occupied a key position in Scotland’s battle for independence. Seven battlefields can be seen from the castle, and the 220-foot Wallace Monument at Abbey Craig recalls William Wallace’s (the Scottish Hero on which the movie 'Braveheart' was based) defeat of the British in 1297 at Stirling Bridge. For generations Scotland’s royalty gathered at Stirling Castle to revel in its impressive buildings, superb sculptures, fine craftsmanship and beautiful gardens. Today Visitors can do the same. Highlights include The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, The Great Kitchens and Tapestry Studio. Guided tours of the castle help bring its rich and colourful past to life in vivid detail.
Overnight Location
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.
From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.
Day 4
Accommodation
4-Star Georgian Townhouse Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.
Included Unique Activities
Rosslyn Chapel & Scottish Borders Day Tour
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
This award-winning small group tour first takes you south of Edinburgh to the world famous Scott’s View, which offers a stunning panorama over the Tweed Valley and the Eildon Hills. The group will also get the opportunity to visit the original Wallace Monument. From here you travel to Melrose, to explore its great Border Abbey, founded by the Cistercians in the 12th Century. Melrose Abbey is also the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart, which was brought back from the crusades in Moorish Spain. Following a lunch stop in Melrose, the tour makes its way to the stunning 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, recently immortalised in Dan Brown’s “Da Vinci Code” book and movie. Here you will learn all about the fascinating myths and legends surrounding the whereabouts of the 'Holy Grail', as well as the alleged involvement of the mysterious Knights Templar. Thereafter, the tour returns to Edinburgh, arriving at approx. 4.30pm, after a truly enlightening day out.
Inclusions: Transport in an air-conditioned, 16-seater Mercedes mini-coach with an experienced and storied Rabbie's driver-guide. Exclusions: Meals and refreshments.Entry fees to visitor attractions.
Suggested Sightseeing
Roslin Glen, Central Scotland
On the Map: Roslin Glen contains the largest surviving stretch of ancient woodland in Midlothian and is a haven for all kinds of wildlife. Running through the Glen is the River North Esk, which stretches from the Pentland hills to the point where it joins the South Esk at Dalkeith Country Park.
The natural beauty of Roslin Glen has attracted the interest of many writers and artists and was a particular favourite in the 18th and early 19th centuries. One of the most famous artists to have drawn inspiration from Roslin Glen was JMW Turner. Dorothy Wordsworth, along with her brother William, stayed in the village in 1803 and Dorothy wrote that she ‘had never passed through a more delicious dell than the glen at Roslin’.
Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh
On The Map: Rosslyn Chapel is located just 7 miles south of Edinburgh, in the village of Roslin. Lothian Bus 15A and First Bus 62 operate hourly services from Edinburgh City Centre to Roslin.
Rosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair, the last St Clair Prince of Orkney. Sir William St Clair’s plan was to build a grand cross-shaped cathedral, but work stopped shortly after he died. Although Sir William’s ambitions for a larger cathedral were never realised, the Chapel that was built is quite extraordinary. Every master mason of the time took an artistic turn while building the chapel, such is the variety of styles and subjects. The chapel features intricate carvings and 32 different forms of arch - practically every surface of Rosslyn Chapel is covered with carvings of individual figures and scenes! Most interesting of all are the carvings of New World plants that predate Columbus’s voyage by almost 100 years...no one is quite sure just how that is possible! People travel from all over the world to see the carvings, and there are many different interpretations of their meanings. Myths, legends and Hollywood fiction have all contributed to Rosslyn's unique sense of mystery and wonder. The chapel has most recently gained notoriety from the movie, 'The Da Vinci Code'. The movie links Rosslyn to the Knights Templar, and claims it to be the resting place of the Holy Grail. There is actually quite a bit of historic evidence to support this theory!
Melrose Abbey, Southern
On The Map: Melrose Abbey is located in Melrose Town in Scotland’s southeast. Melrose is just one hour south of Edinburgh off the main A68 road.
There has been a monastery at Melrose since 650 AD. The current Gothic-style abbey was founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, as requested by King David I of Scotland. The head was the Abbot, or Commendator, of Melrose. Today the abbey is maintained by Historic Scotland and is open to the public year around. Constructed in the shape of a St. John's Cross, Melrose is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful religious houses in Britain. Much of the abbey is now in ruins, although a structure dating from 1590 houses the Abbey Museum, boasting a rich collection of medieval objects found in the abbey cloister. Other highlights include the Abbey's carved decorative details, including likenesses of saints, dragons, gargoyles, and plants. One image depicts the famous bagpipe-playing Melrose Pig! The embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce is said to rest in the Chapter House of the Abbey, while the rest of his body is buried in Dunfermline Abbey.
Overnight Location
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.
From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.
Day 5
Depart From
Depart from Edinburgh Airport, Central Scotland
Return to Edinburgh Airport 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.
Edinburgh is a small airport, but offers a surprisingly large array of shops and restaurants. If you have some time on your hands after check-in and security, you won't be bored!
2024 LOW SEASON
Available Dates
Nov, Dec
From $1,398 per person
2024 MID SEASON
Available Dates
Oct
From $1,598 per person
2024 HIGH SEASON
Available Dates
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
From $2,098 per person
2025 LOW SEASON
Available Dates
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
From $1,468 per person
2025 MID SEASON
Available Dates
Apr, May, Oct
From $1,678 per person
2025 HIGH SEASON
Available Dates
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
From $2,203 per person
Your Price Includes
ACCOMMODATION
4 nights Authentic 4 Star Central Edinburgh Hotel
DINING OPTIONS INCLUDED
4 Full Scottish Breakfasts
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Meet, Greet & Private Transfer on Arrival
Rosslyn Chapel & Scottish Borders Daytour from Edinburgh
Loch Lomond National Park & Stirling Castle Daytour from Edinburgh
Scotch Whisky Tasting Experience
Ghost & Ghouls Walking Tour of Edinburgh
Prices Based On
Prices are per person based on 2 people traveling together and sharing 1 room.
All Taxes & Fees Included
Custom Priced Quote (Want to Add/Subtract Days? Let Us Know!)
Self-guided vacation package. Choose any date to begin your travels.
Traveling alone? No problem. Just ask us for a single supplement price.
"Great trip in Ireland & Scotland"
Nov 24, 2023
Tena
Ireland/Scotland trip was a great trip planned with our group and Jorie. We thoroughly enjoyed each city we visited in both countries. All our hotels were very nice but as older adults, I would advise to pack light which is hard to do if your visit is extended but we had to climb stairs in several places. My favorite thing in both countries are the people. Everyone was so friendly and inviting at hotels, restaurants and local sites. We felt completely safe and comfortable. I would agree with other travelers that driving is stressful for both driver and passengers especially in Ireland where the roads are extremely narrow with rock walls on each side. Next trip will include staying in certain cities with tours out. JerPoint Park in Ireland was a favorite of our group of 4. Authentic Vacations plans, reservations and communications were first rate.
"Wonderful Scottish and Irish adventure"
Nov 14, 2023
James
South Carolina
Lauren, thank you for putting together a wonderful Scottish and Irish adventure. In many unexpected ways it indeed was an adventure that we will remember forever. So sincere thanks. Despite a glitch in St Andrews your team's recovery actually made St Andrews the highpoint of our trip. Staying at Rusacks overlooking the first tee and eighteenth green of the old course was awesome. All the Hotels were first rate. Experiences - awesome The Clontarf Castle is an awesome way to the trip. Well done y'all. Big city stays - We all felt like we could have used an extra day in the larger cities. They all had a story to tell, and we just had enough time to scratch the surface. Self-drive - while less expensive alternative, the person doing the driving misses out on a lot in transit, while the passenger's white knuckle thru the driver's learning process. Also, the roads in Scotland and Ireland are no joke. Would recommend it is worth it to hire a private chauffer driver or go Small Guided for sure.
"Scotland Birthday Trip"
Nov 9, 2023
Michelle
Agency
Adina, I'm following up on my client's train/whiskey tour/ birthday trip to Scotland in October. They had a wonderful time! The whiskey tour day was their favorite, made extra special by their driver Alec who was a superstar. My client's boyfriend is a real train enthusiast. They enjoyed all the train trips, and Nick was like a child on the Jacobite train. Thanks so much for your help with this trip. You clearly know Scotland and planned a very nice route with some unique requirements. I greatly appreciate your expertise and attentive service. I look forward to working with you again in the future. An early Happy Holidays!
"Memorable Trip in Italy"
Nov 9, 2023
Loryl
Fort Thomas, KY
Amber, I received this email from my client Mrs. R this morning - I love being able to share these with you all :).
"Loryl, WOW! What a wonderful trip we had in Italy! Thank you for helping make this trip so memorable. We have so many wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. It was a trip of a lifetime. Thank You! I guess we need to start thinking about our next trip. "
"Trip of a lifetime in Ireland"
Nov 2, 2023
Cathryn
Jennifer, I want to thank you for planning and arranging our wonderful vacation in Ireland. Everything was easy Peezy as my granddaughter would say. The hotels were all beautiful, each one was uniquely different and beautiful. We enjoyed each and the food was enjoyable. We enjoyed all the extra goodies. We were not able to take either sea cruise as the weather canceled the trips. The best decision we made was to have a guide /driver. Martin was an absolute wonder. I wanted to bring him home with us. He saw to every detail and was extremely entertaining to boot. His recommendations were spot on to our interests. I think he knows everyone in Ireland. The car was super too. The back seats were massage chairs. How cool can you get? As a great extra the Owner of Screebe House bought two of my paintings and commissioned two more. Again, many thanks for the trip of a lifetime.
"Two-week trip to Ireland and Scotland"
Nov 1, 2023
Wanda
Our vacation was wonderful we had a great time on our two-week trip to Ireland and Scotland. Jorie helped us plan our trip, she worked hard to include all the places we wanted to see and selected some great adventures for us to enjoy along the way. We truly loved Ireland, the countryside the beautiful sights and the flowers blooming everywhere made our visit one to remember for sure.
"Wonderful Anniversary Trip in Ireland"
Oct 31, 2023
Tim
Hi Jorie, Rose and I had a wonderful time in Ireland! We couldn’t believe how well everything worked out and the locations selected for our stays were excellent. We really loved the Country House and Abbyglen Castle. The staff at Abbbyglen Castle were so nice and made our anniversary evening wonderful! We had no idea there was so much aviation and radio history in Clifden! As for the other locations they were all first-rate as well. We went to the “Man O’ War” Pub for dinner our last night in Ireland. It was a great recommendation. The atmosphere, hospitality, and food were awesome. Again, thank you for helping to set up a wonderful trip which we will never forget.
"All of my clients had only positive feedback"
Oct 31, 2023
Kelly
Mesa, AZ
This was my first time using Authentic Vacations. I worked with Ellie, and she knocked it out of the park! Every detail with transfers, trains, boutique hotels, castles, private tours and fantastic client feedback will keep me coming back! I had 5 vacations with varied budgets this past month. All of my clients had only positive feedback. Emails and phone correspondence were quickly answered, which can make or break my decision to partner with someone. If you are looking for a destination expert, AV will not disappoint! Thank you for making me look like a rockstar, Ellie and AV!!
Complete our inquiry form by selecting your departure date, and all other relevant fields. Be sure to let us know if you're traveling for a special occasion! We can adjust most of our vacation packages to suit your needs, based on the details you provide.
2. Online Account & Quote Created
Your request will be forwarded to our team of Destination Experts, and a price quote will be prepared, based on your submitted preferences and criteria. A free Authentic Vacations online account will also be created, allowing you to view and request changes to your quote at any time. Log into your account via “LOGIN” at the top of any of our webpages.
3. Fine-Tune Your Tour Quote
Work with your assigned Destination Expert to tweak your quote in any way you wish. Our customers continually tell us that our flexibility in this regard is exceptional – your Destination Expert’s sole brief is to create the perfect tour for you!
4. Reserve & Pay Online
Once your quote is 100% to your liking, you can pay for your package with your credit card via your Authentic Vacations online account. We also accept payment by personal check and wire transfer. We only require a 20% deposit to secure your vacation, and our Risk-Free Cancellation Policy provides you with complete peace of mind.
5. Print Your Travel Documents & Go!
Once your vacation has been paid in full, you will be able to print your travel documents directly from your online account. You’re ready to embark on your ideal, authentic vacation!!
Questions?
If you would prefer to discuss your perfect vacation on the phone, we would be delighted to hear from you! Our Destination Experts are standing-by and looking forward to speaking with you at any time during our business hours listed below. We also operate a very responsive and efficient Live Chat service on our website…instant gratification awaits!
Toll-free from the US and Canada: 1-888-443-5259 Rest of World: +1-707-687-0191
Hours of Business:
Monday – Thursday: 7:00am – 5:00pm PST
Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm PST
Saturday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
Sunday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
With offices in Scottsdale, San Francisco, London, Dublin, Copenhagen and Edinburgh, we can offer you unrivaled support while you are abroad. We truly believe all our clients deserve an extraordinary, authentic experience!