Best Edinburgh Tours & Holidays 2023/2024

Edinburgh will show you how to have a good time – the Scottish way.

Edinburgh is easily one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. But beneath the enchanting medieval wynds and buildings in Old Town lies a fascinating history with secrets and stories waiting to be told. Our Edinburgh tours are a perfect mix of adventure, history and culture. Follow your local guide as you step back in time at Edinburgh Castle, climb the rolling hills of Arthur’s Seat for some fresh Scottish air and incredible views, and have a dram of whisky (or two) in centuries-old pubs. Continue your adventure in the Highlands or the Orkney Islands to fall even deeper under Scotland’s spell.

Our Edinburgh tours & holidays

Highlights of Scotland

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Begin in Glasgow, explore the picturesque Isle of Skye, travel to the famous Loch Ness,...

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Highlights of Edinburgh

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and fuses Old Town and New Town together. The castle protected the city from English invaders in the middle ages and has seen its fair share of bloody battles. Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens in the Great Hall where magnificent banquets took place, peek inside cells where prisoners of war were detained, and watch a live reenactment to see Mary, Queen of Scots and other historical figures in action.

A view of Edinburgh City from Arthur's Seat

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Surrounded by the rolling hills and grasslands of Queens Park and Holyrood Palace, the ancient volcanic peak known as Arthur's Seat is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Edinburgh. After tackling one of the many trails to the summit, you'll be rewarded with incredible 360 vistas that stretch over Edinburgh and beyond. Don't forget your camera, because this is easily one of Edinburgh's best views.

People walking on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh City Centre

Explore the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the beating heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Brimming with lively pubs, trendy bars and restaurants, medieval buildings, museums and shops, you'll quickly lose yourself in the buzzing atmosphere as you explore the labyrinth of cobbled laneways. Uncover the stories and secrets of the Royal Mile with your local guide at the impressive St Giles’ Cathedral, Parliament Square and Castle Esplanade. Or discover the best toe-tapping Scottish music in cosy watering holes.

Marvel at Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace is the home of Scottish royal history and the royal family's official residence in Scotland. This grand palace boasts spectacular gardens and over 280 rooms including the Great Gallery, Royal Dining Room, Throne Room and State Apartments. Wander through the rooms and marvel at the stunning baroque interior, discover hidden treasures and relics, or visit the former chambers of some of the palace's most iconic residents including Bonnie Prince Charlie and 16th-century monarch, Mary Queen of Scots.

A river view of Dean Village in Edinburgh

Explore the quaint Dean Village

With narrow cobblestone roads, colourful cottages and the rippling Water of Leith flowing through the heart of the village, Dean Village is a gorgeous, green sanctuary just a stone's throw from Edinburgh city centre. The settlement was built in the 1880s as a mill town and you’ll find remnants of its history scattered around the village. It's also a lovely place to walk along the tranquil river and get some respite from the city.

Enjoy the Scotch Whisky Experience

You can't go to Scotland and not taste some of its finest whisky. Take your tastebuds on an adventure through the fascinating world of Scotland's national drink and discover the country's rich history along the way. Learn about some of the main whisky regions and flavours, walk into a huge vault loaded with more whisky bottles than you could ever imagine, or visit the blending room to find out how the spirit is made.

Edinburgh tour & holiday reviews

Edinburgh FAQs

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join a trip in Edinburgh?

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid’s COVID-19 policy

How to get to Edinburgh

There are a number of transport options that go direct to Edinburgh. You can fly from various cities in the UK and Europe with airlines including Ryanair, EasyJet and British Airways. If you are travelling to Edinburgh from nearby cities such as Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool or Newcastle, the most convenient way to get there is by train with the National Rail. You can also take a bus or coach from major cities in the UK with National Express, Citylink and Megabus.

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Getting around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around with extensive bus routes, road and traffic-free cycling networks and a tram that runs from the Edinburgh Airport to York Place in the east side of the city centre. One of the best ways to get around the city is by walking. The city centre is compact and most of the main sights are within walking distance. There are also plenty of black cabs which you can hail on the street or jump in at one of the taxi ranks. It’s relatively easy to drive around the city if you have a car, but you’ll need to be aware of parking restrictions.

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When should I visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a lively city and that you can enjoy any time of year. In terms of weather, the best time to visit is during the summer between May and September when the days are longer and sunnier. Scottish summers can still sometimes feel a little chilly, especially if you’re from a hot place, so bring some warm layers and a rain jacket. If you love comedy, theatre and music, the best time to go is August when the Fringe Festival is on. There are festivals throughout the year in Edinburgh but the Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival and it’s pretty special. The city is packed at this time of year so be prepared for large crowds, more expensive accommodation and longer queues for attractions.

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Is Edinburgh accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Most of Edinburgh’s main attracts are accessible including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Museum of Scotland, the National Gallery of Scotland and St Giles’ Cathedral. The city rests on an extinct volcano and some streets are quite steep. There are also many cobblestone streets in the Old Town. It’s recommended to plan your day and work your way downhill where possible. The tram and several bus lines are also wheelchair accessible. Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Is Edinburgh an LGBTQI-friendly destination?

Scotland is internationally recognised as an inclusive nation and Edinburgh is a very welcoming destination for LBTQI+ people. There are many safe and friendly bars, cafes, pubs and hangout spots for the LBTQI+ community. In February there is also the LGBT History Month with an amazing range of parties, activities and programs not just in Edinburgh but throughout the country.