Day 1
Accommodation
Exclusive Peaceful Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
The hotel has limited parking facilities on site, along with a special discounted rate at the nearby NCP Castle Terrace. Car parking is barrier controlled and located at the rear of the hotel. It can be accessed via Lynedoch Place Lane, just off Drumsheugh Place.
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 collected 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, and have completely bypassed the endless searching for the right airport shuttle, bus or taxi.
Must-See Sites
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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.
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.
The Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare of Old Town Edinburgh, and boasts a number of famous historical sites and buildings, as well as an impressive array of shops, eateries and pubs. The Royal Mile is actually more than a mile by 107 yards. It starts at the entrance to Edinburgh Castle & ends at the gates of Holyrood Palace. There are several independently named streets which connect to make up the Royal Mile: 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 & 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, and is impossible to miss!
Edinburgh castle sits on a high, rocky hill with a narrow ridge running east above the Old Town of Edinburgh. 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. Edinburgh Castle has highlighted the city’s skyline for 800 years, is a national symbol, and it is Scotland’s most popular site to visit. The castle was a vital possession in Scotland’s historic struggles. The castle houses the Honours (Crown Jewels) of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 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 in eight languages. The audio tour takes the visitor on a tour 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 oldtown Edinburgh. A mere few minutes walk from the Royal Mile, Chembers Street links George IV Bridge & South Bridge
The National Museum’s forte is artifacts from around the world. The recently opened more modern Museum of Scotland is a small miracle and dedicated to the story of Scotland and its people. They have separate identities, while sitting right next to each other. Very handy. Together, they are considered 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 present 1,200 years ago; The Maiden, a 16th century guillotine; Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Canteen—all the stuff he needed to travel and dine in style!; Egyptian mummy cases, decorated with Egyptian symbols of death and resurrection; a 3,500-year-old Egyptian toy mouse with string that would have been pulled by a child. When it walks the tail wags!
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 Ediunburgh, 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. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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
Exclusive Peaceful Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
The hotel has limited parking facilities on site, along with a special discounted rate at the nearby NCP Castle Terrace. Car parking is barrier controlled and located at the rear of the hotel. It can be accessed via Lynedoch Place Lane, just off Drumsheugh Place.
Included Unique Activities
The Scotch Whisky Experience Silver Tour
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
The perfect introduction to the world of whisky! You will enjoy a 50-min guided tour plus a nosing and tasting of a Scotch whisky (or soft drink) in The World's Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky. Ideal for families and first timers.
This tour includes:
- Production of Scotch whisky
- Introduction to the aromas in whisky
- A dram of Scotch whisky (Irn Bru for under 18s)
- Viewing of the World's largest collection of Scotch whisky
- Gift of crystal whisky tasting glass (adults only)
- Audio guide available (20 languages)
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.
Must-See Sites
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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.
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.
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.
Gilmerton Cove, Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Gilmerton Cove is located in the Gilmerton suburb of southeast Edinburgh. It's not walkable from downtown, but is served by the 3, 3a & 29 buses.
Gilmerton Cove is a series of strange, hand carved passageways and chambers that lie 10 feet below ground to the south of Gilmerton crossroads. After five years of work by Gilmerton Heritage Trust and The City of Edinburgh Council to restore and preserve it for future generations, it opened in August 2003, providing visitors of all ages with an educational and fun experience. The entrance to Gilmerton Cove is through a visitor centre adapted from a traditional mining cottage. This cottage now houses imaginative audio and visual displays that depict the various theories behind the origins of Gilmerton Cove which, after extensive archaeological and historical research, still remain a mystery. Just how old the caves are is unknown, but records go as far back as the 18th century and the system appears to be very much older. Who constructed them? When? Why? And what have they been used for over the years? Tomb of ancient kings? Meeting place for one or more persecuted religious groups? Masonic Lodge Room? Witches Coven? Illicit Whisky Still & Drinking Den? Knights Templar Retreat? Some theories even suggest that the Templars buried the Holy Grail here. Whatever the real answers, everyone can agree that it is truly a fascinating and mysterious site to visit. Daily tours are available by prior appointment - call 07914 829177. Please note that Gilmerton Cove is not located in the heart of Edinburgh. It's a 30-minute bus ride - use Bus No. 3 or 29 from Princes Street.
Overnight Location
Edinburgh, Central Scotland
On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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
Exclusive Peaceful Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
The hotel has limited parking facilities on site, along with a special discounted rate at the nearby NCP Castle Terrace. Car parking is barrier controlled and located at the rear of the hotel. It can be accessed via Lynedoch Place Lane, just off Drumsheugh Place.
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, arriving at approx. 6.15pm, after a fantastic & varied Scottish experience.
Inclusions: Full-day touring on a Mercedes 16 seater mini-bus - perfectly sized to go where larger tour buses cannot. A professional and experienced Driver/Guide. Entrance to Stirling Castle.
Exclusions: Lunch & Refreshments. Entrance to any attractions other than Stirling Castle.
Must-See Sites
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Central Scotland
On The Map: Loch Lomond is located in Central Scotland, approx. 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.
Encompassing approx 720 square miles, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs became Scotland’s first National Park in 2002. Originally made famous by the novels of Sir Walter Scott in the early 1800s, The Trossachs has been enjoyed as the ‘Highlands in Miniature’ by tourists ever since. For two centuries, people have come here to walk, climb, cycle and sail, to breathe fresh clean air and drink in the spectacular views. The landscapes covered by the Park range from the uplands of Breadalbane to the sea lochs of Argyll, and 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 the iconic Ben Lomond. The southern half of the loch is much more pastoral and is 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. To appreciate the very best of the Trossachs, we recommend 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. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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
Exclusive Peaceful Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.
The hotel has limited parking facilities on site, along with a special discounted rate at the nearby NCP Castle Terrace. Car parking is barrier controlled and located at the rear of the hotel. It can be accessed via Lynedoch Place Lane, just off Drumsheugh Place.
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: Full-day touring on a Mercedes 16 seater mini-bus - perfectly sized to go where larger tour buses cannot. A professional and experienced Driver/Guide. The uniquely small group size ensures a friendly & personal service.
Exclusions: Lunch & Refreshments, Entrance to Rosslyn Chapel, Entrance to Melrose Abbey, Entry fees to visitor attractions.
Must-See Sites
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 the southeast of Scotland. Melrose is just one hour south of Edinburgh off the main A68 road, which then continues further south towards the town of Newcastle in England.
There has been a monastery at Melrose since about 650AD. The current Gothic-style abbey was founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, on the request of King David I of Scotland. It was headed by the Abbot or Commendator of Melrose. Today the abbey is maintained by Historic Scotland and is open to the public year-round. Constructed in the shape of a St. John's Cross, Melrose is widely considered among the most beautiful of religious houses in Britain. Much of the abbey is now in ruins, although a structure dating from 1590 houses the Abbey Museum and boasts a rich collection of medieval objects found in the abbey cloister. Other highlights include the Abbey's many carved decorative details, including likenesses of saints, dragons, gargoyles and plants. One such depicts the famous bag-pipe 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. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.
Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the 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!
