How to Plan Your Day Trip by Rail to Edinburgh from London

Edinburgh is a fantastic destination, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re based in London and looking for a day trip to Edinburgh, then you’re in luck. GetYourGuide offers a range of guided tours for travelers who want to explore the best of Edinburgh within a day. This article is a how-to guide to help you plan your day trip to Edinburgh with GetYourGuide.

Overview of the Tour

The tour operates from London and takes you to Edinburgh, where you will have access to the city’s main attractions. The tour includes a reserved seat on a train to Edinburgh, entrance to Edinburgh Castle, an open-top bus tour, and a free city map to explore the destination.

Experience

You’re in for an incredible experience with this tour. You will start by meeting your representative outside the ticket office at King’s Cross Station at 6:30 AM. This is where you will exchange your voucher for your train tickets for your outbound and inbound rail journeys. The train departs at 7:00 AM and arrives in Edinburgh at 11:22 AM. Once you arrive in Edinburgh, you will have the chance to explore the city at your leisure. You have the option to take an open-top bus tour, which is included in the tour package. You’ll get to see the top sights of Edinburgh, including the Old town, New town, Edinburgh Castle, and many more. One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to Edinburgh Castle. As part of the tour, you will have entry into the castle, which is steeped in history and features beautiful architecture. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the castle’s various exhibitions and learn about the rich history of Edinburgh. To help you navigate the city, the tour includes a free city map, which you can use to plan your day and explore Edinburgh’s many attractions.

Includes

The tour includes a range of services to make your day trip to Edinburgh as comfortable as possible. These include:

• Assistance from a representative at the train station
• Reserved train seats
• Open-top bus tour
• Entry to Edinburgh Castle
• Refreshment served at your seat (first-class option)
• Gratuities
• Food or drinks
• Guide
• Hotel transfers

It’s worth noting that the tour does not include any food or drinks, though refreshments are served if you opt for the first-class option.

Additional Information

Here are a few additional pieces of information to consider when planning your day trip to Edinburgh with GetYourGuide:

• The tour runs daily from Monday to Saturday
• The meeting point is King’s Cross Station in London
• The tour is available with two seating options: standard and first-class
• The tour is fully refundable up to 24 hours before the start time

Booking Your Tour

To book your day trip to Edinburgh, head to the GetYourGuide website and search for the “Day Trip by Rail to Edinburgh from London” tour. Follow the instructions to book your tour, making sure to print all tickets for both your return rail journey and attractions. Book your tour here

Book Your Tour Now

A day trip by rail to Edinburgh from London is an excellent way to see one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. With GetYourGuide, you’ll have access to expert guides, comfortable travel, and all the attractions the city has to offer. Use this guide to plan your day trip, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that is full of history, culture and attractions. Many tourists visit Edinburgh every year, and they have a lot of questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Edinburgh.

1. What is the History of Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a long and fascinating history that dates back more than a thousand years. The city was first settled in the 7th century AD by the Angles, who named it ‘Edenburgh’. The first castle was built on a hill in the 12th century, and Edinburgh became the capital of Scotland in the 15th century. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Edinburgh was home to many prominent intellectuals and thinkers, including Adam Smith and David Hume. The city also played a significant role in the Scottish Enlightenment.

2. What are the Top Attractions in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a variety of attractions that are popular with tourists. Some of the top attractions in the city include:

• The Edinburgh Castle – a historic fortress that sits on a hill
• The Royal Mile – a famous street that runs from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
• The Palace of Holyroodhouse – the official residence of the monarch in Scotland
• The National Museum of Scotland – a museum that showcases the history and culture of Scotland
• The Scottish Parliament – a modern building that houses the Scottish Parliament
• The Royal Botanic Garden – a beautiful garden that is home to many plant species

3. What can I do in Edinburgh for Free?

Edinburgh has many free attractions that visitors can enjoy, including:

• The National Museum of Scotland – admission is free, although some special exhibitions may have a fee
• The Royal Botanic Garden – admission is free, although some special exhibitions may have a fee
• The Scottish Parliament – visitors can take a free tour of the building
• The Royal Mile – visitors can walk along the historic street for free
• The Edinburgh University – visitors can explore the historic campus and buildings for free
• The Scott Monument – visitors can climb the monument for free, although there is a small fee to visit the museum inside

4. What is the Best Time to Visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh depends on your preferences. The city is busy during the summer months, which is when many of the festivals and events take place. However, if you prefer a quieter time, then visiting in the off-season may be a better option. The winter months can be cold and dark, but the city is also full of festive cheer during the Christmas season.

5. How do I get around in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a good public transport system that includes buses and trams. Visitors can also use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber. Walking is also a popular option, especially in the city centre where many attractions are located. Bicycles can also be rented for those who prefer to cycle.

6. What are the Best Places to Eat in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has many great places to eat, including traditional Scottish restaurants, international cuisine and local cafe. Some of the best places to eat in Edinburgh include:

• The Witchery by the Castle – a stylish restaurant located in a historic building
• The Kitchin – a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves modern Scottish cuisine
• The Dogs – a casual restaurant that offers Scottish comfort food
• Oink – a local sandwich shop that serves roast pork sandwiches
• Hula Juice Bar – a vegetarian cafe that offers healthy food and smoothies

7. Where can I Find Accommodation in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has many accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. Some of the best areas to stay in Edinburgh include:

• Old Town – located near the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle
• New Town – a fashionable neighbourhood with many restaurants and shops
• Leith – a historic port area that has been revitalised in recent years
• Bruntsfield – a residential area that is popular with families

8. What are Some Festivals and Events in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is known for its festivals and events, which take place throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals and events in Edinburgh include:

• The Edinburgh Fringe Festival – a three-week festival of comedy, theatre, and music
• The Edinburgh International Festival – a celebration of the performing arts
• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a spectacular display of military bands and dancers
• Hogmanay – the Scottish New Year celebrations
• The Beltane Fire Festival – an ancient Celtic festival that celebrates the arrival of summer

Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a wonderful city that offers many attractions, events, and experiences. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh. With this FAQ, you will be able to plan your trip to Edinburgh and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a fascinating and historical city that draws millions of tourists every year. With its rich culture, diverse architecture, and stunning natural beauty, it can be hard to know where to start. In this guide, we’ll show you the top things to do in Edinburgh, so you can make the most of your time and leave with unforgettable memories.

1. Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town

Edinburgh’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is steeped in history and tradition. It’s home to numerous attractions such as the Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, St Giles Cathedral, and the Royal Mile. Take your time to stroll through the ancient cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and soak up the ambiance of this unique historic area.

2. Visit Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most famous street and stretches for approximately one mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll find a plethora of historical landmarks, souvenir shops, cafes, and pubs. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ghost tour to learn more about the spooky side of Edinburgh’s history.

3. Tour Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle sits atop a hill and is visible from almost everywhere in the city. The castle has been the site of many historical events for over 1,000 years and is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland. Take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s rich history, including the infamous siege of 1573.

4. Wander Around Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is a public park located between the Old Town and New Town of Edinburgh. The gardens offer great views of the Edinburgh Castle and are home to the Scott Monument, which is a tribute to Sir Walter Scott, a famous Scottish novelist. Pack a picnic and relax in the peaceful surroundings, or catch a concert during the Edinburgh International Festival.

5. Discover Edinburgh’s New Town

Edinburgh’s New Town is a contrast to the Old Town with its symmetrical Georgian architecture, stylish boutiques, and trendy restaurants. Take a stroll along George Street, which is lined with designer stores and high-end restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Scottish and international portraits and photographs.

6. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that sits at the eastern edge of Edinburgh. From the summit, you’ll have breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside. There are several trails to the top, but the most popular is the route that starts at Holyrood Road. It’s a challenging climb, but the rewards are worth it.

7. Take a Whisky Tour

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a whisky tour. Edinburgh has myriad of distilleries, ranging from large commercial ones to small-scale artisanal producers. Take a tour to learn about the history and production process of Scotland’s most famous drink. Don’t forget to try a dram or two, and pick up some souvenirs to take home.

8. Visit the Scottish Parliament Building

The Scottish Parliament Building is a modern architectural masterpiece that stands next to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The building opened in 2004 and has quickly become one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions. Take a guided tour to learn about the Scottish political process and to admire the building’s unique design.

9. Experience Edinburgh’s Festivals

Edinburgh hosts several festivals every year, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These festivals draw thousands of tourists from around the world and offer a diverse range of entertainment, including comedy shows, theater performances, live music, and military parades. Check the festival schedules and book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

10. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful oasis within the bustling city. The garden spans over 70 acres and has a variety of plants from around the world. Don’t forget to visit the Victorian Palm House, which houses tropical plants such as banana trees and orchids. The garden also has several cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after a long day of exploration.

Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Edinburgh will not disappoint. From ancient castles to modern architectural marvels, the city has a plethora of attractions that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in Edinburgh, and you won’t be disappointed.