Edinburgh in a Day: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace
Discover Edinburgh’s rich royal heritage in one unforgettable day. Begin with a guided visit to Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll uncover treasures like the crown jewels and enjoy stunning city views. You'll also walk the historic Royal Mile with an expert guide, making stops at Lawnmarket, St. Giles’ Cathedral (exterior), and Canongate. Depending on the date of your tour, you'll wrap up your journey at either Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the British monarch, or the Scotch Whisky Experience, where you'll taste one of Scotland's most beloved products like a true local (available Tues/Weds from Sept 8th).
Options
Edinburgh in a Day Tour with Castle, Royal Mile & Holyrood
What's included in Edinburgh in a Day: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Edinburgh Castle
Start with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, an ancient stronghold perched atop volcanic rock. Your guide will lead you through its highlights, including Scotland’s crown jewels, the Great Hall, and panoramic views of the city. If you wish, choose the Early Access option when booking for a VIP experience in the Edinburgh Castle where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the iconic landmark one hour before they open to the public.
Lawnmarket
See the historic Lawnmarket and the exterior of St. Giles’ Cathedral while your guide shares fascinating stories.
Royal Mile
Walk through the historic heart of Edinburgh, uncover hidden closes, and hear tales of its past. Then continue on to Canongate to learn about this historic area’s ties to Scotland’s royalty, and marvel at its beautiful architecture.
Inclusions
- Local English-speaking guide
- Entry to Edinburgh Castle
- Guided whisky tasting (Tue & Wed from Sept. 8)
- Entry to Holyrood Palace with audio guide (most dates)
- Pre-opening access ticket to the Castle (if option selected)
- Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
- Gratuities
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
- The castle is reached across the esplanade – a wide area of smooth tarmac, with an uphill gradient of 5 degrees.
- Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
- Photography and filming are not permitted inside the Palace.
- Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
- NOTE: On this tour you will visit Holyrood Palace with audio guide (most dates) OR guided whisky tasting (Tuesdays & Wednesdays from Sept. 8)
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Scotch Whiskey Experience located at 354 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1
End Points
- In Holyrood Palace.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
- Please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. The group must enter the museum at the stated time and will be unable to wait for late-comers. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no shows after tour commencement or departure. - The castle is reached across the esplanade – a wide area of smooth tarmac, with an uphill gradient of 5 degrees. - Suitcases and large rucksacks (30L or over) are not permitted in the castle. - Unable to store luggage, prams, pushchairs or other personal items for visitors. - Bag searches at the castle entrance as part of our security screening process. - Palace of Holyrood - On arrival your belongings will be subject to a bag check. - Photography and filming are not permitted inside the Palace. - Eating and drinking are not permitted inside the Palace's State Apartments. - NOTE: On this tour you will visit Holyrood Palace with audio guide (most dates) OR guided whisky tasting (Tuesdays & Wednesdays from Sept. 8) - Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated. - Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
