About this tour
This 9-hour private minivan tour covers Edinburgh's layered history and one of Scotland's most intriguing medieval structures. You'll see Edinburgh Castle with its crown jewels, traverse the Royal Mile's narrow closes, explore the Georgian squares of the New Town, and drive past the Scottish Parliament and Arthur's Seat. The journey culminates at Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century stone chapel south of the city whose intricate carvings and mysterious symbolism have captivated scholars for centuries.
Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle, seat of Scottish monarchy and crown jewels
- Royal Mile's historic wynds and cobbled streets
- Georgian New Town architecture and layout
- Arthur's Seat volcanic ridge viewpoint
- Rosslyn Chapel's ornate 15th-century stonework
- Scottish Parliament building and grounds
- Knowledgeable driver commentary throughout
What to expect
You'll spend the first half navigating Edinburgh's two distinct districts. The old medieval quarter clusters around the castle and Royal Mile, its alleyways packed with shops, pubs and tenements stacked vertically. The New Town, built from the 1760s onward, showcases planned Georgian elegance with wide streets and classical facades. After circling Arthur's Seat, you'll head south to Rosslyn Chapel. The chapel's interior dazzles with carved stone—faces, plants, geometric patterns—each detail raising questions about its builders' knowledge and intentions. Plan 90 minutes there to explore properly.
Good to know
Castle and palace entry fees are separate. Edinburgh operates year-round in all weather, so waterproof layers are essential. Cruise passengers must provide ship details at booking to ensure timely return. All areas are wheelchair accessible. Children must be with an adult throughout.
Frequently asked
- How long does Private Shore Excursion: Edinburgh City and Rosslyn Chapel take?
- Private Shore Excursion: Edinburgh City and Rosslyn Chapel runs for approximately 9 hours.
- How much does Private Shore Excursion: Edinburgh City and Rosslyn Chapel cost?
- Prices start from GBP $800 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does Private Shore Excursion: Edinburgh City and Rosslyn Chapel run?
- This tour operates around United Kingdom. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs Private Shore Excursion: Edinburgh City and Rosslyn Chapel?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. New Forest National Park earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original New Forest National Park summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.