Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour – Ultimate Guide

Are you planning to visit Edinburgh and want to explore both the popular highlights and the hidden gems of this fascinating city in a single tour? Look no further than the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour, which is designed for first-time visitors and promises an insider’s perspective of the city with a local guide. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Overview of the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour

The Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour is a personalized experience that helps you orient yourself in Scotland’s capital with ease. The tour is designed to help you create tailored recommendations for the rest of your vacation. With this private tour, you can tick off the top attractions of Edinburgh and experience the lesser-known sights of the city with the flexibility to customize your itinerary.

Tour Inclusions

The Private Tour comes with a Local Guide who is knowledgeable about the city’s history and can offer interesting insights and commentary. The guide gives you 1 local drink/tasting, which is the perfect way to sample authentic Scottish drinks and cuisine while on tour. Additionally, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, which saves you the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets to find a meeting point.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Café Edinburgh located at 57 High St Edinburgh EH1 1SR UK. The guide will meet you at this point in front of Café Edinburgh, and the tour will start from there. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect on the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour

The Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour has a duration of three hours and includes visits to some of the most famous places in Edinburgh as well as some lesser-known sites. Below is a breakdown of what to expect on the tour.

Edinburgh Castle (20 min)

Edinburgh Castle sits atop a hill and is one of the most visited attractions in Edinburgh. You will be able to get a glimpse of the castle on the tour, and if you want, you can come back later to explore the castle in more detail.

Grassmarket (40 min)

Grassmarket is a historic area in Edinburgh and one of the most famous destinations for visitors. It is a vibrant location filled with pubs, restaurants, and shops that are perfect for exploring.

St Giles Cathedral (30 min)

The tour takes you to St Giles Cathedral, which is an architectural masterpiece and a significant landmark in Edinburgh’s city center. You will have ample time to explore the cathedral and learn about its history and features.

Calton Hill (45 min)

Calton Hill, located east of the New Town, offers beautiful panoramic views of the city. The tour will take you to the top of the hill, and you can enjoy excellent views of some of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks such as the Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument.

Hidden Gems (45 min)

The Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour also includes visits to some of the lesser-known places around the city that are often missed by tourists. These locations offer a unique perspective of the local life and history of the city and provide an opportunity to explore beyond the usual tourist trail.

Why Choose the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour

The Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour offers numerous benefits to visitors. Firstly, having a personalized tour with a local guide ensures that you can navigate the city efficiently and safely. This tour is especially beneficial to first-time visitors who may not be familiar with the area. Secondly, since the tour can be customized, visitors get to see both the popular highlights and some of the hidden gems that are often missed by tourists, which provides a comprehensive view of the city. Finally, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included, visitors don’t need to worry about getting lost, and transportation costs are already covered.

Book the Tour Here

Ready to explore the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour? Book your reservation today at https://www.viator.com/tours/Edinburgh/Best-of-Edinburgh-Highlights-and-Hidden-Gems-Private-Tour/d739-24380P847?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the Best of Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour provides an excellent opportunity to see Edinburgh’s highlights and hidden gems in a single, comprehensive tour. With its personalized approach, local guide, and customized itinerary, this private tour promises to be an unforgettable experience that you will cherish for years to come.

FAQ About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful city in Scotland that offers a lot to tourists and locals. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or stunning natural landscapes, this city has something for everyone. However, if it’s your first time to Edinburgh, you may have some questions about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions about Edinburgh that might help.

1. What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh is during the months of May to September when the weather is warm and the city is bustling with activity. If you want to avoid large crowds of tourists, you might consider visiting between March and May, or between September and November. However, be aware that the weather can be unpredictable during these months.

2. How do I get to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. If you’re coming from outside the UK, the Edinburgh International Airport is the most straightforward option. From downtown, you can take a shuttle bus, a taxi, or the Airlink Express bus to get to the airport. If you prefer to travel by rail, the Edinburgh Waverley Station is located in the city centre and well-connected to most of the UK’s major cities. If you’re driving, you can take the M8 motorway to get into the city.

3. What are some popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh?

There are numerous popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament Building, Holyrood Palace, and the National Museum of Scotland. You might also want to take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens, climb Arthur’s Seat, or visit the Royal Botanic Garden. For Harry Potter fans, a visit to the Elephant House, where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the early Harry Potter books, is a must.

4. What is the Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most significant landmarks in Scotland and has stood atop the Castle Rock since the 12th century. The castle has been a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison throughout its history. It’s now one of Scotland’s most visited tourist destinations and is home to the Scottish National War Memorial, the One O’Clock Gun, and the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels).

5. What is the Royal Mile?

The Royal Mile is a historic street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. It’s home to many historic buildings, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the Museum of Edinburgh, as well as numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.

6. What are some popular festivals in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is known for its festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The city also hosts many other smaller festivals throughout the year, such as the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, and the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

7. Is Edinburgh a walkable city?

Yes, Edinburgh is a walkable city, and it’s one of the best ways to explore the city’s many hidden corners and historic buildings. However, be aware that Edinburgh is built on seven hills, so there are some uphill sections that may require some effort. If you prefer, you can also rent a bike, take a taxi, or use public transportation to get around.

8. What is the best way to explore Edinburgh’s countryside?

If you want to explore Edinburgh’s countryside, you might consider renting a car and taking a scenic drive. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour or catch a bus to some of the nearby towns and villages. Some popular destinations outside of Edinburgh include Roslin Chapel, the Pentland Hills Regional Park, and the historic village of Cramond.

9. What is the currency used in Edinburgh?

The currency used in Edinburgh is pound sterling (GBP). It’s easy to exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, or at many ATMs throughout the city.

10. Is it safe to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is generally considered a safe city for visitors. However, like many bustling cities, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid petty crime. It’s also essential to follow all local laws and customs, especially in regards to alcohol consumption, as this can impact your safety and travel experience. Overall, Edinburgh is a fascinating and vibrant city that offers an excellent blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a little bit of planning, you can have a fantastic time exploring all of the city’s hidden corners and iconic landmarks.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Edinburgh: A Comprehensive Guide

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is an ideal place to visit for tourists looking to explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Scotland. With its edgy vibes, stunning architecture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant nightlife, Edinburgh offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist.

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, perched on top of an extinct volcanic rock at the heart of the city, is a symbol of Scotland’s proud history and one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Edinburgh. Inside the castle walls, you’ll find the crown jewels, the Great Hall, and the legendary Stone of Destiny, among other fascinating exhibits. The castle’s commanding position offers panoramic views of the city, making it a must-see destination.

2. Explore The Royal Mile

A stroll on The Royal Mile is a fantastic way to explore Edinburgh’s historical and cultural heritage. The Royal Mile is a cobbled street that links Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Along the way, you’ll come across several museums, historic sites, restaurants, and shops. Take time to visit St Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament, and the Museum of Edinburgh.

3. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat, located in Holyrood Park, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. This extinct volcano offers panoramic views of Edinburgh city and its surroundings. Climbing Arthur’s Seat is an invigorating way to see the natural beauty of Edinburgh and get some exercise. The ascent takes about an hour and is moderately challenging.

4. Visit Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace has been home to several monarchs, including Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors can explore the state apartments, visit the Queen’s Gallery, and wander through the beautiful gardens. You may even catch a glimpse of Her Majesty the Queen.

5. Experience The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience is a must-visit for whisky lovers. This is an interactive and entertaining journey through the whisky-making process, with a tasting of Scotland’s national drink at the end. The experience takes you through the different whisky regions of Scotland, the history of whisky-making, and the art of whisky tasting. It’s a fun experience for everyone, even if you’re not a whisky aficionado.

6. Discover Edinburgh’s Museums

Edinburgh is home to several world-class museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. The National Museum of Scotland, located on Chambers Street, features millions of objects that tell the story of Scotland’s past and present, including ancient fossils, paintings, and artifacts. Other museums worth visiting include the Scottish National Gallery, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Surgeons’ Hall Museum.

7. Take a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is known for its spooky past and reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the world. Taking a ghost tour is a thrilling way to experience Edinburgh’s dark history and learn about the city’s supernatural folklore. Tours take you through narrow alleyways, ancient graveyards, and forgotten buildings, with creepy tales and legends from the past.

8. Enjoy Edinburgh’s Festivals

Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, which attract visitors from all over the world. The Edinburgh International Festival, the largest arts festival in the world, takes place in August and features music, theatre, and dance performances from around the globe. Other festivals worth checking out include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

9. Shop in Princes Street

Princes Street is Edinburgh’s main shopping district and offers a mix of high street brands and independent boutiques. The street is also home to several department stores and shopping centres, including Jenners and the Princes Mall. Take a break from shopping and admire the stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town.

10. Taste Scottish Cuisine

No trip to Edinburgh is complete without trying some traditional Scottish cuisine. Scotland’s national dish is haggis, neeps and tatties, a savoury meat pudding served with turnips and potatoes. Other Scottish delicacies include Cullen skink, a creamy smoked fish soup, and cranachan, a sweet dessert made with raspberries, oats, cream, and whisky. Sample these delicious dishes at local restaurants, such as The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Witchery, and The Kitchin.

Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a destination that never disappoints its visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, culture, or just want to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Follow our comprehensive guide to experience the best of what Edinburgh has to offer. Plan your trip, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Scotland’s capital city.