Best of Ireland & Scotland (Premium)
14 Days from $4,125 per person
Journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Ireland and Scotland, meet warm-hearted locals and experience legendary Gaelic culture firsthand.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
Journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Ireland and Scotland, meet warm-hearted locals and experience legendary Gaelic culture firsthand.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
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Day 1: Welcome to Dublin
On arrival at Dublin airport, transfers depart for your hotel at 8:.30 am, 11 am and 1 pm. Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner.
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Day 2: In Dublin's Fair City
Your Travel Director takes you past the Custom House and along the River Liffey to see the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle. Walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College and experience an insight into its history from a university insider. Enjoy fast-track VIP entry into its famed library and the 9th-century Book of Kells exhibition.
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Day 3: Waterford and Cork
Go behind the scenes at one of the country’s main racehorse breeding centers in Kildare. Visit the finest Japanese Gardens in Europe, for a 'journey through life.' Visit the House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman.
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Day 4: Blarney Castle and Killarney
Travel along the Grand Parade to see Cork’s City Hall and Opera House. Continue on to visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence—once kissed, never forgotten! On to Killarney where you join a local Jarvey onboard a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
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Day 5: Ring of Kerry Experience
Tour the superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains of the Ring of Kerry. Follow the narrow road as it winds through delightful villages like Sneem to admire Queen Victoria’s Ladies View. Return midafternoon for time at leisure.
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Day 6: The Cliffs of Moher
Begin the day with a short ferry ride across the Shannon Estuary. Journey to the Visitors’ Center at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy magnificent views of the Clare Coast before continuing to your hotel located at the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.
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Day 7: Glorious Galway to Sligo Bay
Join your Travel Director in Galway to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. Tour the wild Connemara region, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. In the evening, your perfect country retreat is set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
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Day 8: Walk in the Giant’s Steps on the Way to Ballygally
The day begins in Drumcliffe, with a visit to the final resting place of Ireland’s famous poet, William Butler Yeats. Cross into Northern Ireland to visit Londonderry and experience sightseeing with one of Northern Ireland’s best storytellers, Ronan, as he walks with you inside the city walls. Journey around the coast to the amazing Giant’s Causeway and continue along the Antrim Coast to your hotel.
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Day 9: High Tea at Ardgowan Estate
Journey to Ardgowan, set on a stunning 10,000-acre coastal estate. Meet Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart for a tour of the expansive house and learn the history of the area, his family and the estate. Delight in freshly made, traditional Scottish tea and scones. Continue to Glasgow to see the city’s grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral.
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Day 10: Glencoe and Loch Ness
A scenic drive takes you along the banks of Loch Lomond and the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, before reaching Fort William. Experience a journey of discovery on a Loch Ness cruise. Soak up the scenery and intriguing tales of Nessie.
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Day 11: A Highlands Experience
Enjoy an orientation of Inverness before driving out to the Culloden Moor Visitor Center, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army was finally defeated. Savor a ’wee dram’ during a visit to the Glen Ord Distillery as you delve into the fascinating world of the single malt.
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Day 12: St. Andrews and Edinburgh
A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains passing Blair Castle. Cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews and see the Old Course, the home of golf since its invention in the 15th century, before enjoying free time to explore. Continue to Edinburgh. In the evening, select departures will attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
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Day 13: Scotland's Capital of Culture
Join your Local Expert and visit Edinburgh Castle to see the Honors of Scotland, Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. See the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the end of the Royal Mile, and travel along Princes Street to see the monument to Sir Walter Scott Memorial before a walk through the New Town. Join your friends at the stylish Galvin Brasserie de Luxe for a grand finale Celebration Dinner of modern-Scottish cuisine served with wine.
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Day 14: Farewell Edinburgh
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast with transfers arriving at Edinburgh airport at 6:15 am and 9 am. Conditional apply.
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Apr 19 | 24 Apr 19 |
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$4,125pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 18 Apr 19 | 1 May 19 |
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$4,125pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 2 May 19 | 15 May 19 |
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$4,205pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 9 May 19 | 22 May 19 |
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$4,205pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 May 19 | 25 May 19 |
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$4,255pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 14 May 19 | 27 May 19 |
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$4,255pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 May 19 | 29 May 19 |
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$4,255pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 21 May 19 | 3 Jun 19 |
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$4,255pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 May 19 | 5 Jun 19 |
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$4,255pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 26 May 19 | 8 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 May 19 | 12 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 4 Jun 19 | 17 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 6 Jun 19 | 19 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 9 Jun 19 | 22 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 11 Jun 19 | 24 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 13 Jun 19 | 26 Jun 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 20 Jun 19 | 3 Jul 19 |
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$4,305pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 27 Jun 19 | 10 Jul 19 |
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$4,280pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Jul 19 | 20 Jul 19 |
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$4,280pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 15 Aug 19 | 28 Aug 19 |
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$4,380pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 20 Aug 19 | 2 Sep 19 |
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$4,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 25 Aug 19 | 7 Sep 19 |
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$4,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 29 Aug 19 | 11 Sep 19 |
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$4,280pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $950 per person
Triple Room Supplement: $70 per person
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $153 per person
Airport Transfers: On arrival at Dublin airport, transfers operate at 8:30 am, 11 am and 1 pm. Departure transfers on the last travel day arrive at Edinburgh airport at 6:15 am and 9 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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Professional Travel Director
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VIP Access
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Included Quality Dining
13 Breakfasts, 1 Afternoon Tea, 5 Dinners and 2 Dinners with Wine, all with tea and coffee.
Insight Experiences
- Ardgowan: Sir Ludovic Shaw-Stewart welcomes you with a tour of his property, set on a 10,000-acre coastal estate, followed by the delightful and elegant tradition of a Scottish high tea
- Visit Trinity College and see Book of Kells in Dublin • Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in Kildare • Waterford Crystal workshop • Killarney National Park with a Jarvey • Londonderry with a Local Expert
Top Rated Highlights
- Cross the Irish Sea by ferry • Cruise on Loch Ness
- Visit Blarney Castle • Cliffs of Moher • Giant's Causeway • Culloden Moor • Cairns of Clava • Edinburgh Castle
- City tours of Edinburgh with a Local Expert
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Ireland and Scotland must have a current passport that is valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering either country.
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Currency
The currency in the republic of Ireland is the Euro (€). Northern Ireland and Scotland use the Pound (£). While it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate when you arrive at your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Ireland. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling is sampling the local cuisine. Culinary experiences to try in Ireland include a full Irish breakfast, a visit to a chip shop, and hearty lunch at a good local pub. And be sure to sample Irish national specialties including Irish stew, coddle, potato bread, corned beef and whiskey cake.
Scottish cuisine goes beyond traditional haggis, porridge, and whiskey. Other specialties s to try include kippers, fish and chips, Scotch broth, smoked salmon, sausages, shortbread, and Dundee cake. For a meal that’s inexpensive and authentic, try a local pub meal with a pint of Scottish ale.
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Packing
The weather in Ireland and Scotland is mild,damp, and quickly changeable. We suggest packing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Important items to bring include sturdy walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping in Ireland and Scotland is less common than in the U.S. When dining in a restaurant, it’s appropriate to leave a tip of up to 5-10 percent of the bill.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place every year in August.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, often referred to as "the most spectacular show on earth," is an exciting celebration showcasing the best of Scottish music, dance, and military pageantry. In 2019 it will take place in Edinburgh from August 2nd to August 24th, and is sure to draw entertainers and spectators from around the world.
Tickets and arrangements have been included on these select departures. Book early as they will sell out quickly!
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Dublin
Dinner & Irish Cabaret
Over an excellent dinner of quality Irish food, enjoy a nonstop show of comedy, dance, song and music. Ireland’s musical history unfolds in a cabaret that will delight you long after the night has ended. The cast will have you tapping your toes and joining in the fun, and it’s all wrapped up in the spirit of Irish humour. At the end of your meal, cap off one of Ireland’s best nights out with an Irish Coffee.
Adult Price: €71
Irish Countryside & Glendalough
An afternoon drive takes you through the rural countryside of County Wicklow - the garden of Ireland. With our Local Expert, we'll pass through the pretty Wicklow Mountains to the picturesque setting of St. Kevin’s great 6th Century monastic site at Glendalough. Afterwards, we'll explore the monastic remains before returning to Dublin via the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Adult Price: €25
Cork
Queenstown Story
Experience this intriguing port town, home to the world's second-largest natural harbour. We’ll visit stunning St Colman’s Cathedral to hear of the town’s maritime past and also visit the Queenstown Story to discover how the town became the single most important port of emigration from Ireland.
Adult Price: €23
Cork Dinner
Lively and fun loving, Cork city is justly celebrated for fine local produce and great restaurants. Tonight, take the opportunity to dine out and enjoy the great atmosphere and vibrant heart of Ireland's 'rebel' city. Three course dinner with a drink.
Adult Price: €46
Killarney
Gaelic Roots
A tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance, Gaelic roots showcases Ireland at its best. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honoured folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
Adult Price: €34
Limerick
Shannon Castle Banquet
Calling all Lords and Ladies! Please be seated for a delicious banquet in the great hall of the castle. In the splendour of a bygone age, entertainment is provided by the court jester, castle musicians and attendants of the medieval court. It won’t be long before you're making merry with the fine music, singing, dancing, good food and laughter. You'll be sure to take home warm memories of this delightful evening.
Adult Price: €73
Loch Lomond
Doune Castle and the Trossachs Drive
We enjoy a drive through the beautiful Trossachs to visit Doune Castle, overlooking the beautiful village of Doune. Famous for its association with Monty Python, Doune Castle is now used as a film location for Game of Thrones. Doune is also the main Castle in the new hit show, Outlander.
Adult Price: £26
Glasgow
Glasgow Dinner
In recent years, Glasgow has developed a fearsome culinary reputation. With its elegant and chic atmosphere, this restaurant is very much at the forefront. In the hub of Glasgow's vibrant cosmopolitan capital, enjoy an evening of Scottish fayre and experience the unique atmosphere of the city at night.
Adult Price: £40
Inverness
An Evening with Nessie
Join us at the only pub on the shores of Loch Ness, overlooking Dores beach. Enjoy a drink whislt listening to the tales of Steve, a man who has devoted over twenty-five years of his life to hunting for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. A unique evening, following the journey of the ultimate "Nessie Hunter"!
Adult Price: £20
Scottish Highlands
Blair Castle
Journey into the fascinating past with a visit to the ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl. Brimming with treasures inside and out, magnificent Blair Castle is set in its own grounds against a backdrop of glorious scenery. During your informative tour, see how the castle has been transformed through the ages and learn how Queen Victoria's famous stay led to the creation of Europe's only private army.
Adult Price: £20
Edinburgh
Scottish Dinner & Cabaret
Join us for a lively and memorable evening of traditional Scottish song, dance, tartan and bagpipes. In addition to wine and dinner, your kilted hosts will lead you through some of the best-loved Scottish music and songs. You'll learn a Highland dance or two and sample Scotland’s national dish - haggis. An exceptional Scottish experience!
Adult Price: £60
Edinburgh's Most Haunted
Join our Ghouls and Ghosts to embark upon a scary and mirth-filled tour of Edinburgh's old town as never seen before! We'll enjoy a drink afterwards to calm our nerves before returning to the land of the living.
Adult Price: £27
Royal Yacht Britannia
This magnificent ship has hosted some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, Britannia was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. For four royal couples, Britannia was to provide a honeymoon sanctuary before the onset of married life in the world's most photographed family. Now berthed in Leith, you are welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.
Adult Price: £23
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
