Edinburgh Base: 9-day Scotland Adventure
Embark on a 9 full day (11 days total) odyssey weaving through historic castles, mystical Highlands, and the legendary Loch Ness. You have a choice to take part in crafting your adventure of leave if up to our expertise. Go on an adventure from haunting underground vaults to savoring the essence of Scotland with whisky or gin tastings. Wander through Edinburgh's charming streets, discovering hidden gems like Stockbridge, Circus Lane, and tranquil Dean Village. Experience the dramatic Isle of Skye or the picturesque Lowlands. Let the charm of Scotland enchant your soul, leaving you with treasured memories and pure joy. Unveil the enigmatic secrets of Scotland and create a travel story that will be etched in your heart forever.
* A choice to pay the total in full or only the deposit of $500 to secure your spot and pay the rest in installments. The initial deposit is refundable within 72 hours after payment.
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**Shared means that you are going on a trip with someone else, like your friend, a partner, or a family member, and would like to stay in the same hotel room with them. The price is shown per person.
Tour Only means that you have your own hotel stay in Edinburgh and airport transfers. The hotel stay in Lowlands is included. Please contact us at travel@luxurytravelscotland.com if you would like to have your own accommodations for Lowlands part of the trip as well.
Itinerary Overview
If you'd like more details, read the expanded version of the itinerary down below.
What's included in the trip: - Accommodations (stay at 4 or 5-star hotels in Edinburgh and receive extra perks, such as hotel credit.) Unless "Tour Only" option is chosen. - A gift for you - All transfers between the airport (unless "Tour Only" option is chosen) and locations that require it - All of the tickets to tours and attractions that are on the itinerary. Keep in mind that some of the locations mentioned on day trips might be closed for some months. They will be substituted. - Everyday breakfast (unless "Tour Only" option is chosen) - Three dinners - Afternoon tea - Guide for "Things to do in Edinburgh" that you can refer to for ideas on what to do during your free time. - Your travel concierge is available at any time for any questions, booking for extra attractions or/and restaurants, and general information. Or you can ask her during the scheduled activities as she is present with you.
Day 1: - You are greeted by Yaroslava at the airport. And receive a welcoming gift - Your comfortable transfer takes you on to check-in at 4 star-hotel - After you post-flight rest, you will meet with the rest of the group for the Welcome Dinner. If your flight happens to be late, dinner will be arranged for you.
Day 2: - After your first breakfast in Scotland, you have a private guided tour of Edinburgh Castle - Explore Victoria St, full of charming shops and inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter - Visit the famous Grassmarket area - Stop by a local shop for a fresh pastry or local, natural ice-cream - Visit gorgeous Princes Street Gardens - Our last visit today will be to Waterstones Bookstore to visit their 2nd floor cafe for an amazing view - Free evening
Day 3: - After a good breakfast, you are scheduled for an adventurous day-trip to the West Highlands to explore such great sights as serene Loch Lomond, picturesque Inveraray Castle, Kilchurn Castle, and much more. There will be lunch and dinner stops as well.
Day 4: - Start your morning on the sweet side with a visit to a famous and #1 attraction the Chocolatarium - Then you have a choice to either visit the famous Mary King's Close or Blair St Underground Vaults - And here is another hard choice, would you rather have a Scottish whisky tasting or Scottish gin tasting, we will found out. - Free evening
Day 5: - After breakfast, your choice of day tour will be where you are going to spend your day. The 2 adventurous and exciting choices are: to tour Loch Ness, Glencoe, and more. Or go on Outlander Tour to visit the filming locations of this beloved drama series. Both include a stop for lunch. - Free evening
Day 6: - Post breakfast we are off to walk-up an extinct volcano, called Arthur's Seat, located in Holyrood Park - You are off to visiting the official residence of the British Monarchs in Scotland - Holyroodhouse Palace, located right at the base of Holyrood Park - Then you are off for a royal treat of your own - an afternoon tea at The Witchery by The Castle - Free evening
Day 7: - Today, after breakfast, you are visiting a picturesque and charming town west of Edinburgh, South Queensferry, for a private guided tour and a little time for your own exploring - Free time - Join us for an early group dinner
Day 8: - As your breakfast ends, you are on your way to a one night stay in the Lowlands - Along the way you will stop at historic locations
Day 9: - Spend your morning admiring the Isle of Skye - Visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle - You even might stop by Inverness, the capital of Highlands - Arriving back in Edinburgh in the evening
Day 10: - Today is mostly a free day OR - You have a choice to visit a north neighborhood in Edinburgh, Stockbridge, that's full of such sights as Dean Village, Water of Leith, and Circus Lane. And then have free time - Join us to share all the wonderful memories and experiences during the Farewell Dinner
Day 11: - As your breakfast ends, you have a choice for a late check-out - Ride comfortably as your driver takes you through the streets of this wonderful, fairytale-like city - Have a safe trip home with lots of memories, joy, and new knowledge! - This is only for Solo or Shared rate options.
If you have any questions, please read our FAQs here or contact us
SAMPLE ITINERARY EXPANDED
Day 1 - Arrivals
Welcome to beautiful Edinburgh! Upon arrival, I will be there to warmly greet you at the airport and present you with thoughtful gifts to kickstart your journey of a lifetime. From there, we'll embark on a comfortable transfer to our elegant hotel, where you'll experience comfortable and elevated stay.
You'll have ample free time to rest, recharge, and indulge in your own explorations before joining us for a warm welcome dinner, where we'll bond over the excitement of the days ahead.
Day 2
Step into history and magic as we embark on a captivating guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. The regal architecture and captivating tales will transport you back in time. With extra time for self-viewing and visiting the gift shop, you can truly immerse yourself in the castle's storied past.
After we enjoy a leisurely lunch break, we will take a walk through Edinburgh's charming streets. The lively Victoria St awaits, full of captivating shops and artisanal wonders. Then, savor the flavors of a local coffee and pastry shop and artisanal local creamery, filled with delightful treats.
Our journey will lead us through the historical Grassmarket area and Saint Cuthbert's Kirkyard before arriving at the beautiful Princes Street Gardens and Ross Fountain. Concluding the journey with a visit to Waterstones Cafe & Bookshop, offering both books and a mesmerizing view of the city from the second-floor cafe.
**FREE TIME:**
Enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace strolling through charming streets. The city is yours to discover.
Day 3
Today you are going ona day-trip into breathtaking West Highlands, a realm of mystical mountains, ancient castles, and the peaceful Loch Lomond. Embrace the grandeur of Doune Castle, Kilchurn Castle, and Inveraray Castle, each with its own intriguing tales to tell. Amidst the stunning scenery, the Highlands will enchant you, unveiling the raw beauty of nature at its finest. Prepare to be captivated by these awe-inspiring landscapes as we journey deeper into the heart of Scotland.
Day 4
Start your morning by stepping into chocolate heaven right here in Edinburgh, the famous Chocolatarium that has been voted the #1 attraction! Learn about chocolate, see how it's made, and create your own personal chocolate bar!
The afternoon offers a choice of immersing yourself in the haunting history of Mary King’s Close or the eerie Blair St Underground Vaults.
In the evening, indulge your senses with a choice of either Scotch whisky tasting experience, known for its rich heritage, or gin tasting experience, a true artisanal delight
**FREE TIME:**
After the scheduled experiences, the evening is yours to fill with whatever captures your imagination.
Day 5
Today's adventure takes a unique turn, as one of the choices you made prior to the start of this captivating journey in Scotland determines the personalized day-tour you will be going on.
For those who opted for The Outlander Tour, immerse yourself in the world of Claire and Jamie Fraser as you visit iconic locations from the beloved series. Enjoy your own little time travel.
Alternatively, if you chose the Tour to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands, prepare to be swept away by the mysteries of Loch Ness, the beauty of Glencoe, and the grandeur of the Highlands. And let the day's journey unfold, creating unforgettable memories with the splendor of Scotland's landscapes and intriguing history.
Day 6
Your morning will start with a visit up to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, and Holyrood Park, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
After that you get to experience the historic Holyroodhouse Palace, the current residence of the British Royal Family in Scotland, where royal history unfolds before your eyes in the grandeur of this palace.
Prepare for an exquisite afternoon tea at 3 PM, an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition and elegance. Here you will indulge in the culinary delights of The Witchery by the Castle, a delightful rendezvous of great taste and atmosphere.
**FREE TIME:**
After tea, the evening is yours to explore the city's charming streets and quaint closes, indulge in local cuisine, or simply unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
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Day 7
Embark on an adventure to South Queensferry, a hidden gem that will leave you breathless with its scenic beauty and charming ambiance. Stroll through its charming streets, complemented by an authentic walking tour that reveals the town's secrets. In the afternoon, enjoy your free time. And as the sun sets, join us for an early heartwarming dinner.
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**FREE TIME:**
After South Queensferry enjoy the rest of the afternoon in Edinburgh.
Day 8
Get ready for a one-night trip to the picturesque Lowlands. The Lowlands exploration offers serene countryside, historic castles, and charming villages, ensuring an unforgettable experience immersed in Scotland's captivating beauty and culture. Adding a perfect final touch to your Scottish adventure, [trip details will be provided in advance].
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Day 9
Continue exploring Scotland with your guide. Later in the evening, you will be returning to Edinburgh with your group and check-in to your hotel, basking in the familiarity of this welcoming city.
Day 10
You have a choice to have most of the day to do as you wish OR go on an exploration of Stockbridge. A delightful neighborhood in the north of the city, known for its bohemian charm, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. Uncovering the charm of Circus Lane, a hidden gem of a cobbled street adorned with colorful houses, a perfect spot for pictures. The flowing waters of the Water of Leith Walkway is a perfect oasis amidst the city’s bustle attracting both locals and visitors alike with its wildlife and historic landmarks. And the tranquil Dean Village, another hidden gem located along the Water of Leith, with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings.
The rest is your free time to relax and savor your final moments in Edinburgh, reflecting on the unforgettable journey that brought you closer to the heart and soul of Scotland.
Join us once more for an early "Farewell" dinner, savoring the time and experiences shared.
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**FREE TIME:**
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Day 11 - Departures
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, check-out from your hotel and let us take care of your smooth transfer to the airport, ensuring you depart with hearts full of treasured memories and the promise of new adventures. Until we meet again, safe travels and fond farewells.