Edinburgh Private Guided Driving Full Day City Discovery Tour

5.0 (1 reviews) Edinburgh, Scotland
Duration8h 15m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Experience Edinburgh your way on a private, fully personalised tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Unlike large group tours with fixed itineraries, this exclusive experience is tailored to your interests, pace, and preferences, giving you the flexibility to spend more time at the places that interest you most.

Travel comfortably between Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems while enjoying engaging stories, local insights, and historical context that bring the city to life. Explore famous sights such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, Calton Hill, Dean Village, and Arthur’s Seat, while also discovering quieter corners that many visitors miss.

Choose to include destinations beyond the city centre, such as the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel, the charming waterfront town of South Queensferry, or the Royal Yacht Britannia, creating a truly bespoke Scottish experience.

Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or returning to explore more deeply.

What's included

  • Private Tour-Just you and your professional local tour guide. Photo opportunities & short walk
  • Bottled of Water & Soft Drinks
  • Transport by MPV 7 seater or SUV 5 seater provided
  • Live Commentary on board
  • Hotel/Cruise Port/Airport Pick up & Drop off
  • Edinburgh Castle - GBP23.50 per person - Paid on-site
  • Gratuities
  • Royal Yacht Britannia - GBP23.00 per person - Paid on-site
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse - GBP22.00 - Paid on-site
  • Rosslyn Chapel - GBP12.00 - Paid on-site

What to expect

  1. The Royal Mile
    30m
    Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is the historic spine of Scotland’s capital. As you stroll along its cobbled streets, discover centuries-old buildings, hidden closes, traditional pubs, and fascinating stories of Edinburgh’s royal and medieval past. Your guide will bring the history to life with tales of kings, queens, writers, and everyday life in Old Town.
  2. Edinburgh Old Town
    30m
    Step back in time as you explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Wander through narrow alleyways, atmospheric courtyards, and bustling historic streets while learning about the city’s medieval origins, infamous characters, and remarkable architecture. Every corner reveals another chapter of Edinburgh’s rich history.
  3. Edinburgh Castle
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline and offers spectacular panoramic views. Hear the stories behind Scotland’s most iconic fortress, including royal ceremonies, epic battles, and the legendary Stone of Destiny. Your guide will highlight the castle’s fascinating history and significance as Scotland’s national symbol. (Exterior guiding unless castle entry is included.)
  4. New Town
    30m
    Discover the elegant Georgian streets and grand architecture of Edinburgh’s New Town. Built during the Enlightenment, this beautifully planned district showcases wide avenues, charming squares, and impressive neoclassical buildings that contrast perfectly with the medieval character of the Old Town.
  5. Victoria Street
    20m
    Often regarded as one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque streets, Victoria Street is famous for its colourful shopfronts, unique boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere. Its curved design and historic charm have made it one of the city’s most photographed locations and are said to have inspired parts of the Harry Potter universe.
  6. The Scottish Parliament
    Pass by
    Located at the foot of the Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament is one of Edinburgh’s most striking modern buildings. Learn about Scotland’s devolved government, the building’s distinctive architecture, and its role in contemporary Scottish politics while admiring its innovative design.
  7. Arthur's Seat
    20m
    Rising above the city, Arthur’s Seat is the highest point of Holyrood Park and offers breathtaking views across Edinburgh and beyond. Learn about the extinct volcano’s geological history, local legends, and its importance in shaping the city’s dramatic landscape. Depending on your tour, enjoy scenic viewpoints or a leisurely walk around its base.
  8. Surgeons' Hall Museum
    20m
    Explore one of the world’s oldest surgical museums, home to an extraordinary collection of medical instruments, anatomical specimens, and fascinating exhibits. Discover how Edinburgh became a world leader in medical education while hearing stories of pioneering surgeons, groundbreaking discoveries, and the city’s intriguing medical history.
  9. Dean Village
    30m
    Escape the bustle of the city in the peaceful oasis of Dean Village. Once a thriving milling community along the Water of Leith, this charming neighbourhood is filled with picturesque cottages, historic buildings, and tranquil riverside scenery, making it one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems.
  10. Rosslyn Chapel
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Famous for its intricate stone carvings and mysterious symbolism, Rosslyn Chapel has captivated visitors for centuries. Learn about its fascinating history, legendary connections to the Knights Templar and Freemasons, and its global fame following The Da Vinci Code. Every carving tells a story waiting to be discovered.

    Please note: The full itinerary is covered, but you must choose either Three Bridges or Rosslyn Chapel—both are not included.

    Duration: 8 hours. The tour follows a fixed schedule, including photo and shopping stops. Extra time at any stop may result in missing other attractions.
  11. Duddingston Kirk
    30m
    Nestled beside Duddingston Loch, this beautiful 12th-century church is one of Edinburgh’s oldest surviving places of worship. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and historic gravestones, Duddingston Kirk offers a glimpse into Scotland’s religious heritage in a tranquil village setting.
  12. Grassmarket
    20m
    Once a medieval marketplace and public execution site, the Grassmarket is now a lively square filled with historic buildings, cafés, pubs, and independent shops. Hear dramatic tales of notorious criminals, colourful local characters, and Edinburgh’s darker past while enjoying one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
  13. South Queensferry
    30m
    This charming waterfront town sits beneath the magnificent Forth Bridges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its picturesque streets, admire spectacular coastal views, and learn about the engineering achievements that made the iconic Forth Bridge one of Scotland’s greatest landmarks.

    Please note: The full itinerary is covered, but you must choose either Three Bridges or Rosslyn Chapel—both are not included.

    Duration: 8 hours. The tour follows a fixed schedule, including photo and shopping stops. Extra time at any stop may result in missing other attractions.
  14. Royal Yacht Britannia
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Step aboard the former floating residence of the British Royal Family, where you can explore the elegant State Apartments, Crew’s Quarters, and Royal Deck. Discover life at sea aboard one of the world’s most famous ships and hear stories of royal voyages spanning more than four decades.
  15. Calton Hill
    20m
    Enjoy one of Edinburgh’s finest viewpoints from Calton Hill, home to iconic monuments including the National Monument, Nelson Monument, and Dugald Stewart Monument. From here, take in sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, the Old and New Towns, and the Firth of Forth while learning about the city’s remarkable skyline and history.

Meeting and pickup

End point

Please let us know your drop off address

Pickup details

Please leave your pick up address with post code

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Transport by Private London Black Cab on Request

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (1)
From
£350.00 £325.50 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Edinburgh
From
£325.50 per person
Check availability