Full Day Tour of Edinburgh Including Lunch With A Local Expert

Exploring the historic city of Edinburgh has never been easier than with this comprehensive full-day tour. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, visitors will dive into the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Scotland’s capital. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town and Royal Mile to the panoramic vistas of Calton Hill, this immersive journey promises an unforgettable experience. Topping off the day, guests will savor a delightful traditional Scottish lunch, catering to various dietary needs. With an all-day bus pass providing seamless transportation, there’s no limit to the hidden gems and local insights waiting to be uncovered.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Lunch Experiences In Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour exploring Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Royal Mile and hidden gems, with a local expert guide.
• Includes a traditional two-course Scottish meal with various dietary options at a famous kitchen and bar by the scenic coastal setting.
• Provides an all-day bus pass for seamless city exploration and convenient access to main landmarks and attractions.
• Offers a small-group format with a maximum of 17 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Includes a visit to the panoramic viewpoint of Calton Hill, providing breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s historic skyline.

Tour Overview

This full-day Edinburgh tour with lunch offers travelers a comprehensive experience of the city’s historic sites and local life. The tour is ideal for those with tight schedules, providing a 7-hour journey through the Scottish capital.

Led by a local expert, the small-group experience (maximum 17 participants) explores UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the iconic Royal Mile, and hidden gems using public transport and on foot.

Highlights include panoramic views from Calton Hill and a traditional two-course Scottish meal with various dietary options, served in a renowned local eatery near the beach.

With an included all-day bus pass, the tour ensures a seamless and immersive exploration of Edinburgh.

Itinerary Highlights

The Edinburgh tour takes travelers on a journey through the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and iconic landmarks. Visitors will explore the historic Old Town and stroll along the famous Royal Mile, connecting Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, they’ll discover hidden gems and experience local life using public transport and on foot. The tour also includes a visit to Calton Hill, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Explore	Discover	Visit
Edinburgh’s historic sites	Hidden gems and local life	Calton Hill for panoramic views
UNESCO World Heritage Sites	Using public transport and on foot	–
Old Town and Royal Mile	–	–

Lunch and Refreshments

As part of the Edinburgh tour, participants are treated to a traditional two-course Scottish meal with vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options.

The lunch is served in a famous traditional kitchen and bar setup, located by the beach. Along With the hearty meal, a soft drink or soda is included.

This dining experience allows visitors to savor authentic Scottish cuisine while enjoying the scenic coastal setting.

The meal provides a tasty break during the comprehensive tour, ensuring participants are refreshed and energized to continue exploring the historic city of Edinburgh.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants meet at the Scott Monument, located in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ, UK, at 09:30 am to begin the tour.

The tour ends at Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK. An all-day Edinburgh bus pass is included, valid until midnight, allowing participants to explore the city further after the tour.

The tour’s meeting and pickup locations provide:

• Convenient access to the city’s main landmarks and attractions
• Easy navigation using public transportation
• A seamless start and end to the comprehensive Edinburgh experience

Accessibility and Additional Information

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces accommodating those with mobility needs. Strollers are also welcome.

Confirmation is provided upon booking the tour. However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Edinburgh’s historic landmarks and discover local life, all within a small group setting.

With a maximum of 17 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable local expert, complete with a traditional Scottish lunch.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Sites

This comprehensive tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of Edinburgh’s historic sites, including several UNESCO World Heritage landmarks.

Guests will walk through the charming Old Town and along the famous Royal Mile, which connects the grand Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Along the way, they’ll discover hidden gems and get a glimpse into local life, using public transportation and exploring on foot.

The tour also includes a visit to Calton Hill, offering panoramic views of the city’s stunning skyline.

• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Edinburgh’s Old Town and along the Royal Mile.
• Discover hidden gems and experience local life using public transport and on foot.
• Take in sweeping views of the city from Calton Hill.

Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Life

Venturing off the well-trodden paths, the tour guides expertly navigate the intricate web of alleyways and narrow streets, revealing Edinburgh’s hidden gems. Guests are treated to a glimpse of local life, from tucked-away courtyards to vibrant neighborhood markets. Using a blend of public transport and walking, the tour immerses visitors in the city’s authentic charm. The following table showcases some of the hidden highlights discovered during the tour:

Hidden Gem	Description
Dean Village	A peaceful, picturesque area along the Water of Leith
Circus Lane	A charming cobblestoned street with colorful townhouses
Stockbridge Market	A lively weekend market showcasing local artisans and produce
Dunbar’s Close Garden	A tranquil oasis tucked away from the bustling city center

Panoramic Views From Calton Hill

One of the tour’s highlights takes visitors to the iconic Calton Hill, which offers panoramic vistas over the city.

From this vantage point, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s historic skyline, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the striking Scott Monument.

The hill also provides an excellent opportunity to photograph the city’s picturesque Georgian architecture and the surrounding natural landscape.

Visitors can:

• Admire the iconic Athenian-style acropolis, a monument to the Scottish Enlightenment
• Explore the National Monument, a half-built replica of the Parthenon in Athens
• Take in the panoramic views stretching from Firth of Forth to the Pentland Hills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Age Range of the Tour Participants?

The tour is open to participants of all ages. It doesn’t specify a particular age range, allowing for a diverse group of travelers to join the experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or offers. However, it’s possible there may be promotional deals or package offers available that could provide savings. Customers should check with the tour operator for the latest pricing and any applicable discounts.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Customers can’t customize the tour’s itinerary, as it’s a pre-designed package. However, the tour covers Edinburgh’s major highlights, leaving travelers ample time to explore their personal interests during the free time segments.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities throughout the day.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Besides the Listed Options?

The tour offers dietary accommodations beyond the listed vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options. Guests can request specific dietary needs or restrictions, and the tour provider will work to accommodate them if possible.

Recap

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Edinburgh’s rich history and vibrant culture. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, you’ll discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town, savor a traditional Scottish lunch, and take in panoramic views from Calton Hill. With an all-day bus pass, you can seamlessly navigate the city and uncover its hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable Scottish adventure.