Copenhagen to Edinburgh: A Viking Saga

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Welcome to Denmark. On arrival at Copenhagen airport make your way to the arrivals hall to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team, who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and your time in Copenhagen. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. This evening we'll gather for a welcome to your journey with social drinks and snacks. Accommodation: Copenhagen Hotel (or similar) Meals: Welcome Reception (drinks and canapés) Note: to not miss out on our welcome reception, please ensure your flight to arrive in Copenhagen no later than 2:00pm.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Copenhagen is a city where Scandanavian tradition meets modern Nordic cool. Home to three royal palaces, and nearly a quarter of Denmark's population this casual capital reflects centuries of regal heritage alongside a progressive, design-driven spirit. Consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, Copenhagen is celebrated for its clean, human-centred design and its effortless blend of historical buildings and sustainable suburbs. Nowhere is this clearer than along its transformed harbourfront. Once industrial, now reimagined through clever engineering, the former warehouses are now a vibrant public space. With clean swimming zones, open promenades, and a buzzing café scene, it’s a showcase of how the Danes design not just for function, but for joy. In Copenhagen, life is meant to be well-lived, so get ready for an enjoyable day on our ‘Copenhagen by design’ day tour. We’ll begin with a brief driving tour of Copenhagen’s iconic landmarks and making a stop at the famous Little Mermaid statue, before joining a tour of Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time at Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s iconic marina, framed by colourful 17th-century buildings, wooden sailboats, and inviting cafés, or take a stroll along the Strøget, Europe’s first pedestrian shopping streets, lined with boutiques, galleries, and street performers. Copenhagen is the perfect place to unwind. Savour authentic Danish cuisine at a trendy waterfront restaurant or perhaps treat yourself to an afternoon of retail therapy, Scandinavian style. (Note: Should Amalienborg Palace be closed for an event, a suitable alternative will be provided.) In the late afternoon, we board the Douglas Mawson and enjoy a welcome dinner while we meet our onboard team.

Don't tell the residents of Göteborg that they live in Sweden's "second city," but not because they will get upset (people here are known for their amiability and good humor). They just may not understand what you are talking about. People who call Göteborg (pronounced YOO-teh-bor; most visitors stick with the simpler "Gothenburg") home seem to forget that the city is diminutive in size and status compared to Stockholm.Spend a couple of days here and you'll forget, too. You'll find it's easier to ask what Göteborg hasn't got to offer rather than what it has. Culturally it is superb, boasting a fine opera house and theater, one of the country's best art museums, as well as a fantastic applied-arts museum. There's plenty of history to soak up, from the ancient port that gave the city its start to the 19th-century factory buildings and workers' houses that helped put it on the commercial map. For those looking for nature, the wild-west coast and tame green fields are both within striking distance. And don't forget the food. Since its inception in 1983, more than half of the "Swedish Chef of the Year" competition winners were cooking in Göteborg.

Welcome to Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem. Founded in 1621 by King Gustav II Adolf, this lively maritime city blends rich history with modern charm. Once a strategic hub for North Sea trade — and echoing with the legacy of Viking routes — Gothenburg today is a city of grand boulevards, bustling squares, and leafy canals. As you explore, you’ll find a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, where old-world architecture meets innovative culture and cuisine. Whether you're drawn to its history, harbour views, or Swedish fika culture, Gothenburg offers an unforgettable taste of Scandinavia at every turn. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: A Tram ride with a Twist Step back into Gothenburg’s rich history as you board a specially chartered, fully restored heritage tram from Spårvägssällskapet Ringlinien. This nostalgic ride will take you through the city centre and past some of Gothenburg’s most beloved sights, including Liseberg, the iconic amusement park that has been thrilling visitors since 1923. You’ll also see the Scandinavium arena, home to the city’s hockey team, the prestigious Chalmers University of Technology, and the charming district of Linnéstaden, known for its turn-of-the-century architecture. The tram will bring us to Haga, one of Gothenburg’s oldest neighbourhoods. During your free time here, you can soak up the wonderfully laid-back atmosphere along Haga Nygata, a pedestrian street lined with antique shops, chocolatiers, and fashionable boutiques — a perfect place to experience the city’s timeless charm. (Note: route may vary due to tram schedules on the tracks) Option 2 – Morning experience: Getting to know Gothenburg Winding through the heart of Gothenburg, this combination of driving and walking tour brings the city's layered past vividly to life. As you visit its historic streets, stories unfold—from Viking traders who once navigated the nearby rivers to the ambitions of King Gustav II Adolf, who founded the city in 1621 as a gateway to the west. From the heights near Masthugg Church, the harbour sprawls beneath you, a reminder of Gothenburg’s long maritime tradition. Down in the old quarter, the timbered charm of the Haga district offers a glimpse into everyday life centuries ago. The rhythm of the city pulses through public squares where locals gather just as merchants once did. Along broad boulevards, culture and commerce meet, and landmarks like the Poseidon statue stand not just as monuments, but as symbols of a city shaped by water, trade, and Viking resilience. Option 3 – Morning experience: Sweden’s small-town spirit It’s time to escape the city and immerse yourself in the true spirit of Sweden’s west coast, where fjords, islands, and fishing villages tell stories of a rich maritime heritage. As we travel north from Gothenburg, we cross impressive bridges spanning shimmering waters, where you’ll feel the connection between mainland and island life as you explore the lush landscapes of Tjörn and Orust. In the charming fishing village of Klädesholmen, herring fishing isn’t just history — it’s a living tradition that shaped the community and still influences life here today. A gentle walk reveals the village’s intimate connection to the sea, before you continue to the relaxed, picturesque harbour of Skärhamn, where you can soak up the atmosphere of a real Swedish coastal town. This is an authentic journey into Sweden’s coastal heart, far from the tourist trails.

Nicknamed "Sommerbyen" ("Summer City"), Norway's fifth-largest city has 78,000 inhabitants. Norwegians come here for its sun-soaked beaches and beautiful harbor. Kristiansand has also become known internationally for the outdoor Quart Festival, which hosts local and international rock bands every July. According to legend, in 1641 King Christian IV marked the four corners of Kristiansand with his walking stick, and within that framework the grid of wide streets was laid down. The center of town, called the Kvadraturen, still retains the grid, even after numerous fires. In the northeast corner is Posebyen, one of northern Europe's largest collections of low, connected wooden house settlements, and there's a market here every Saturday in summer. Kristiansand's Fisketorvet (fish market) is near the south corner of the town's grid, right on the sea.

Welcome to Kristiansand, a charming coastal city in southern Norway where seaside beauty meets Scandinavian charm. Known for its white wooden houses, sheltered harbour, and vibrant cultural life, Kristiansand offers a perfect blend of history and nature. Founded in 1641 by King Christian IV, the city has long been a key maritime hub. Whether you're exploring its picturesque old town or cruising through the surrounding archipelago, Kristiansand captures the relaxed elegance of Norway’s southern coast. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences invite you to discover the treasures surrounding Kristiansand this morning, followed by a leisurely afternoon to explore the city on foot at your own pace. As we dock right at the city’s doorstep, you’ll have ample time to wander Kristiansand’s charming, walkable streets at your own pace and soak in its unique coastal atmosphere. Option 1 – Morning experience: Sailing the island-dotted bay of Kristiansand As we step aboard a smaller vessel and set off into the island-dotted waters around Kristiansand, the landscape begins to tell its own quiet story. For the next two hours, we weave through a maze of narrow straits and sheltered inlets, where life seems to unfold at the gentle rhythm of the sea. Along the way, you'll see how closely people live with the water here, with bright-white houses perched right at the water’s edge, as if they’ve grown from the rock itself, their docks and boats an everyday part of life. The narrow passages of Stokksundet and Skippergada offer an intimate look at this unique coastal way of living. As we glide past, laundry flutters in the sea breeze, kayaks rest lazily on private jetties, and families gather on sun-drenched porches just feet from the tide. Out toward the lighthouses at Grønningen and Oksøy, the landscape opens to a wilder stretch of sea, where the sky feels larger and the air saltier. This is Norway in its purest form, simple, beautiful, and entirely at ease with the elements. Option 2 – Morning experience: The storybook town of Lillesand Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning coastal landscapes of southern Norway on this panoramic exploration of Kristiansand and the storybook town of Lillesand. Your journey begins with a drive past some of Kristiansand’s most notable sights, including the round stone walls of Christianholm Fortress and the charming Posebyen district, with its narrow lanes and white wooden houses. The route winds through graceful residential neighbourhoods and along the coastline, where views of the Skagerrak strait reveal rocky islets, quiet coves, and seabirds in flight — offering a sense of the region’s deep maritime heritage. As you head inland, the scenery shifts to shimmering lakes, fertile valleys, and rugged tunnels carved through mountains. Upon arriving in Lillesand, you’ll have free time to explore this picture-perfect town at your leisure, browse its quaint shops, enjoy a coffee by the harbour, or simply wander its peaceful streets, before returning to Kristiansand.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Nestled between seven dramatic mountains and the deep blue waters of Norway’s west coast, Bergen is a city of stunning natural beauty. Founded over 900 years ago by Vikings, it quickly grew into a vital trading hub thanks to its strategic location along important sea routes. Bergen’s heritage was later shaped by the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading network that dominated Northern Europe from the 14th to 16th centuries. The city’s historic wharf, Bryggen, with its colourful wooden buildings, stands as a living reminder of this prosperous era. Today, Bergen beautifully blends its Viking roots and Hanseatic past with vibrant culture and breathtaking fjord landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of the Viking Saga. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences let you explore Bergen from three unique perspectives, at street level, from the surrounding mountains, and high above the city, so you can choose the view that inspires you most. This afternoon, you’ll have plenty of free time to wander Bergen’s charming streets and soak up its vibrant atmosphere at your own pace. Later, we set sail westward, following in the footsteps of the Vikings as we journey toward the rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Bergen & Fløyen Panorama Tour We board our coach for a scenic drive through Sandviken and Eidsvåg, two charming neighbourhoods that reveal the quieter, more traditional side of city life, where Bergen’s seafaring roots still run deep, before hopping aboard the Fløibanen funicular, one of Bergen’s most iconic attractions and a cherished symbol of the city. Open since 1918, it whisks us up the steep slope of Mount Fløyen, offering ever-expanding views of the city and surrounding fjords. At the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama that captures the true beauty of Bergen. (Note: sequence may vary) Option 2 – Morning experience: Bryggen Harbour This morning we meet our local guide for a stroll through Bryggen, the city’s historic harbour and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once the heart of Bergen’s role in the Hanseatic trading empire, Bryggen’s narrow alleys and timber buildings tell a story that goes back to the 14th century. Though fires, most recently in 1955, have damaged the area over time, 62 wooden structures still stand, lovingly rebuilt using traditional methods. As we wander through Bryggen, we’ll find artisan shops, cosy cafés, and museums tucked into centuries-old buildings. This photogenic corner of Bergen captures the essence of what we imagine a quintessential Norwegian town to be. Charming, orderly, and steeped in character. Its colourful wooden houses, cobbled lanes, and scenic waterfront reflect the timeless beauty and quiet pride of Norway’s coastal heritage. Option 3 – Morning experience: Bergen from above Take in the ultimate view of Bergen as you ride the cable car up and down Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the seven mountains encircling the city. Rising to 643 meters (2,110 feet), Ulriken offers an unmatched vantage point over Bergen and the surrounding fjords. The mountain takes its name from the Old Norse word "Ulrikr," possibly meaning ‘the towering one’, reflecting its dominant presence on the skyline. At the summit, breathtaking views await, stretching across the city, sea, and rugged landscape. After descending, your journey continues with a visit to a faithful reconstruction of the Fantoft Stave Church, originally built in 1170. This medieval wooden church was destroyed by arson in 1992, and rebuilding it was a significant challenge. Stave churches, with their steep roofs and intricate wooden design, were originally constructed in the Middle Ages using advanced techniques that are now mostly forgotten. Instead of nails, they were assembled with wooden dowels and supported by tall vertical posts known as staves. The replica was built using traditional methods and wood from 400-year-old pine trees, all sourced and crafted on-site, making it remarkably true to the original.

Founded by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick today is a busy town and administrative center. Handsome stone buildings—known as lodberries—line the harbor; they provided loading bays for goods, some of them illegal. The town's twisting flagstone lanes and harbor once heaved with activity, and Lerwick is still an active port today. This is also where most visitors to Shetland dock, spilling out of cruise ships, allowing passengers to walk around the town.

Many might wonder why people choose to live on remote islands in cold, windswept places, but one look at the raw beauty of the Shetlands, with their dramatic sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and rolling moorlands, makes it clear. There’s something deeply compelling about life here, something that makes the harshness feel not only worthwhile but almost addictive. The sea is a constant presence, shaping the landscape and the lives of those who call these islands home. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences, offer an insight into the Shetland way of life this morning, before there’s time to explore Lerwick at your own pace, before we sail to the Shetlands neighbouring islands, the Orkneys, late afternoon. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Scenic Shetlands This panoramic drive offers a glimpse into the Shetland’s unique way of life. You’ll pass towering sea cliffs coveted by seabirds, heather-covered hills and secluded farms where the distinctive black and brown Shetland sheep graze in fields bordered by neat stone walls. From here we continue to the former capital, Scalloway, where we visit the Scalloway Museum, which offers a snapshot Shetlands lifestyle throughout the ages and a section devoted to the secret WWII operation called ‘The Shetland Bus’ which operated into the harbour of Scalloway from occupied Norway. Nearby, the imposing ruins of Scalloway Castle stand watch over a bustling fishing port. Built in 1600 by the notorious Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney and Shetland, the castle stands as a stark reminder of his brutal and oppressive rule. Abandoned after his downfall, it now offers a hauntingly photogenic glimpse into Shetland’s turbulent past. The drive concludes across the peaceful Tingwall Valley, a stretch of uninterrupted farmland dotted with lochs, streams, and the occasional stone church, a fitting end to a journey through a place that is as tough as it is beautiful. Option 2 – Morning experience: A Crofters Life Travelling south from Lerwick through Shetland’s we meet open landscapes of rolling moorland and scattered farms, heading toward the fertile district of Dunrossness, keeping an eye out for Shetland ponies grazing in the fields, small, sturdy, and iconic, they’ve long been a part of life on the islands. Our destination is the Croft House Museum, a well-preserved 19th-century thatched croft that offers a glimpse into Shetland’s past. Crofting, a traditional way of life centred on small-scale farming, has shaped Shetland’s identity for generations. Though the methods have evolved, crofting remains an important part of the islands’ culture and economy. Our knowledgeable custodians will share stories of daily life in a crofthouse, from raising livestock and growing food to the resilience needed to thrive in such a remote and windswept place. Set in a peaceful coastal location, the house has been carefully restored to reflect what life would have been like here in the 1870s. Step inside to the warmth of a peat fire, see traditional box beds, and even try setting a classic Shetland mouse trap. The croft also features a well-tended garden, typical of those used to grow vegetables and herbs to support the household. After time to explore, we return to Lerwick, passing through the beautiful southern countryside that continues to support this enduring way of life.

In bustling Kirkwall, the main town on Orkney, there's plenty to see in the narrow, winding streets extending from the harbor. The cathedral and some museums are highlights.

We arrive at the Orkney Islands, a rugged archipelago of around 70 islands, 20 of which are inhabited by a close-knit population of around 22,000. Though most Orcadians proudly trace their heritage back to the Vikings, they have consistently voted to remain part of the United Kingdom. This small but strategic group of islands has played an outsized role in world history, from ancient neolithic settlements that predate the Egyptian pyramids to pivotal naval events during both World Wars. Orkney’s rich heritage and resilient community continue to shape Scotland’s story today. The capital, Kirkwall, welcomes us today with two iconic ‘Your Choice’ experiences to enjoy this morning, followed by some free time to explore its charming streets, shops, or historic sites at your leisure. In the mid-afternoon, we set sail southward toward the Scottish Isle of Lewis. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Scapa Flow at War As we journey through Orkney’s rugged landscape, we uncover the hidden story of Scapa Flow, a vast natural harbour that became the strategic heart of the British naval fleet during both World Wars. This remote stretch of water off Scotland’s northern coast was a fortress of naval power, where thousands of sailors were based and crucial battles were planned. In particular the island groups most dramatic chapter which unfolded after World War I, when 74 German warships were held captive here, waiting for their fate under the Treaty of Versailles. In 1919, unaware of a last-minute treaty extension, German Rear Admiral Ludwig von Reuter ordered the entire fleet scuttled to avoid capture, after secretly preparing for this act during months of internment. Your tour winds along the southern coast, crossing the iconic Churchill Barriers, which allow us to reach the southern island of Lamb Holm, home of the poignant Italian Chapel, hand-crafted by WWII prisoners of war. We then visit the tranquil village of St. Margaret’s Hope on South Ronaldsay, where charming stone cottages and local craft shops tell stories of a community shaped by resilience and history, before returning to Kirkwall. Option 2 – Morning experience: The ancient lands of the Orkneys Venture into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed heartland of Orkney, where layers of history — Neolithic, Norse, and medieval — are scattered across a hauntingly beautiful landscape like chess pieces discarded during a forgotten game. From Kirkwall, we journey across Mainland Island into the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney, home to ancient stone circles and remarkably preserved settlements. Pass the dramatic Standing Stones of Stenness before stopping to admire the vast Ring of Brodgar, a ceremonial stone circle dating back nearly 5,000 years. Continue to Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved neolithic village exposed by a storm just 150 years ago. At the visitor centre, explore its fascinating history before walking 200 metres to Skaill House, Orkney’s finest manor. Built in 1620 by Bishop George Graham on a Norse-era farmstead, the house has remained in the hands of twelve interconnected Lairds, each leaving their mark. Inside, discover an impressive collection of heirlooms and artefacts that speak to 400 years of local heritage. This tour offers a seamless blend of Orkney’s ancient and more recent past — each site visited by coach, with time to explore at your own pace.

With close to 220,000 inhabitants, Aberdeen is Scotland's third most populous city. Locally quarried grey granite was used during the mid-18th to mid-20th centuries for many of Aberdeen's buildings, and hence the nicknames it has earned as the Granite City, or the Grey City. Aberdeen granite was also used to build the terraces of the Houses of Parliament and Waterloo Bridge in London. Since the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1970s, Aberdeen has also been called the Oil Capital of Europe or the Energy Capital of Europe. It is no wonder that because of the oil fields in the North Sea, Aberdeen's seaport is very important. The Heliport with its flights to the oil fields is one of the busiest commercial heliports in the world.

Disembarking at the North Sea ‘oil town’ of Aberdeen, we drive south for a 'right royal visit', when our journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, offers a rewarding detour to Scone Palace. Centuries of Scottish history, and a touch of Viking drama, come vividly to life on our self-guided tour. Set along the River Tay, Scone was once a strategic and symbolic site. In 904, a fierce battle took place nearby between King Constantine II of Scotland and Viking invaders who had sailed inland along the river. But Scone’s legacy is always connected to the story of Scotland. After the fall of the Picts in 839, Kenneth MacAlpin brought the legendary Stone of Destiny here to crown himself the first King of Scots. From that point on, Scone became the ceremonial heart of the kingdom, with 42 Scottish kings crowned atop the sacred Moot Hill. Today, we explore the palace, taking in its elegant interiors and soaking up the atmosphere of a place once central to Scotland’s royal story. There's time to linger in the impressive gardens, or perhaps enjoy a scone in the Scone Tea Rooms, where history comes with a side of jam and cream. Continuing south, we have a brief stop in the historic city of Perth, which sits on the banks of the River Tay, before arriving in Edinburgh mid-afternoon. Your evening is at leisure to soak up some of Scotland’s capital city’s Gaelic atmosphere. Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel (or similar)

Edinburgh is to London as poetry is to prose, as Charlotte Brontë once wrote. One of the world's stateliest cities and proudest capitals, it's built—like Rome—on seven hills, making it a striking backdrop for the ancient pageant of history. In a skyline of sheer drama, Edinburgh Castle watches over the capital city, frowning down on Princes Street’s glamour and glitz. But despite its rich past, the city’s famous festivals, excellent museums and galleries, as well as the modern Scottish Parliament, are reminders that Edinburgh has its feet firmly in the 21st century.Nearly everywhere in Edinburgh (the burgh is always pronounced burra in Scotland) there are spectacular buildings, whose Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian pillars add touches of neoclassical grandeur to the largely Presbyterian backdrop. Large gardens are a strong feature of central Edinburgh, where the city council is one of the most stridently conservationist in Europe. Arthur's Seat, a mountain of bright green and yellow furze, rears up behind the spires of the Old Town. This child-size mountain jutting 822 feet above its surroundings has steep slopes and little crags, like a miniature Highlands set down in the middle of the busy city. Appropriately, these theatrical elements match Edinburgh's character—after all, the city has been a stage that has seen its fair share of romance, violence, tragedy, and triumph.Modern Edinburgh has become a cultural capital, staging the Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe Festival in every possible venue each August. The stunning Museum of Scotland complements the city’s wealth of galleries and artsy hangouts. Add Edinburgh’s growing reputation for food and nightlife and you have one of the world’s most beguiling cities.Today the city is the second most important financial center in the United Kingdom, and the fifth most important in Europe. The city regularly is ranked near the top in quality-of-life surveys. Accordingly, New Town apartments on fashionable streets sell for considerable sums. In some senses the city is showy and materialistic, but Edinburgh still supports learned societies, some of which have their roots in the Scottish Enlightenment. The Royal Society of Edinburgh, for example, established in 1783 "for the advancement of learning and useful knowledge," remains an important forum for interdisciplinary activities.Even as Edinburgh moves through the 21st century, its tall guardian castle remains the focal point of the city and its venerable history. Take time to explore the streets—peopled by the spirits of Mary, Queen of Scots; Sir Walter Scott; and Robert Louis Stevenson—and pay your respects to the world's best-loved terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. In the evenings you can enjoy candlelit restaurants or a folk ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee, a traditional Scottish dance with music), though you should remember that you haven't earned your porridge until you've climbed Arthur's Seat. Should you wander around a corner, say, on George Street, you might see not an endless cityscape, but blue sea and a patchwork of fields. This is the county of Fife, beyond the inlet of the North Sea called the Firth of Forth—a reminder, like the mountains to the northwest that can be glimpsed from Edinburgh's highest points, that the rest of Scotland lies within easy reach.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is more than just a city of castles and royal connections; it’s a place where the stories of saints and heroes who saved Scotland echo through its ancient streets. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has been a strategic stronghold for centuries. Renowned for its connections to Scottish heroes like Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, who took up residence at Holyrood Palace as a widow at 18 years of age; and St Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh; the city holds secrets including hidden underground tunnels beneath the Royal Mile, and tales of ghostly apparitions that haunt the ancient closes and wynds. Beyond its imposing fortifications, Edinburgh was a centre of political intrigue, and a gathering place where clan leaders negotiated, celebrated, and sometimes clashed, leading to dangerous liaisons and hidden nooks and crannies scattered throughout the city. Today, visitors are encouraged to explore Edinburgh’s royal residences, museums and galleries to uncover these stories and witness firsthand the secrets that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh stands as a living testament to Scotland’s resilience and spirit, where the legacies of saints and national heroes merge with the city’s enduring royal heritage in a puzzle of history and legend. Our experiences this morning showcase a myriad of classic sites, with a free afternoon to enjoy the city independently, before we gather this evening for a Farewell reception. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Introducing Edinburgh Scotland’s capital invites us to hear stories of its iconic inhabitants, past and present, on this locally guided driving tour. As we travel through the city’s historic heart and elegant Georgian avenues, tales unfold of kings and queens in their royal residences, religious upheaval at ancient cathedrals, and fierce rebellions echoing from the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle. The route takes us around Arthur’s Seat and the Crags, where we pause to take in sweeping views of the city’s dramatic skyline. Throughout the journey, your guide brings Edinburgh’s rich past to life with engaging stories of monarchs, poets, rebels, and reformers. Whether you're drawn to the architecture, the legends, or the landscape, this morning tour offers a vivid and memorable introduction to the city. Pair it with an afternoon to explore at your own pace, and you have the perfect day in Edinburgh. Option 2 – Morning experience: The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle Scotland’s most famous mile awaits us this morning, promising a fascinating journey as our guide shares quirky tales and local gems. Immerse yourself in the rich Scottish history woven into the medieval labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways and tenements. Along the Royal Mile, discover the captivating St. Giles’ Cathedral, the historical Parliament Square, and the storied John Knox House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with secrets and unforgettable stories, offering an experience you won’t want to miss. At the pinnacle of the Royal Mile, follow in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers and prisoners as you explore the historical Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence is brimming with fascinating stories from its past. Perched high on a volcanic rock, the castle had a strategic advantage over invaders and has witnessed many sieges, often switching hands between Britain and Scotland. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle holds many historical treasures, including the Honours of Scotland – the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Created during the reigns of James IV and James V, these jewels were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543. During World War II, the Crown of Scotland was cleverly hidden in a medieval latrine closet in David’s Tower! Our audio tour of the castle is stacked with fascinating facts about this stoic fortress, making it both factual and enjoyable. Option 3 – Morning experience: Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia A Royal residence for over 40 years, the HMY Britannia enchants us with an audio tour of her decks, apartments, bridge and engine room. Launched on 16 April 1953 from the John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland, the Royal Yacht HMY Britannia served the royal family for over 44 years. It sailed more than a million nautical miles, becoming one of the world’s most famous ships. To Queen Elizabeth II, HMY Britannia was the ideal royal residence for state visits, official receptions, royal honeymoons, and family holidays. For Great Britain, it was a symbol of the Commonwealth and a proud ambassador, generating billions in trade deals. For the royal family and its 220 dedicated crew members, HMY Britannia was a cherished home. When she was decommissioned in 1997, it marked the end of a long tradition of British royal yachts dating back to 1660 and the reign of Charles II. Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel (or similar) Meals: Breakfast, Farewell reception (drinks and canapés)

Edinburgh is to London as poetry is to prose, as Charlotte Brontë once wrote. One of the world's stateliest cities and proudest capitals, it's built—like Rome—on seven hills, making it a striking backdrop for the ancient pageant of history. In a skyline of sheer drama, Edinburgh Castle watches over the capital city, frowning down on Princes Street’s glamour and glitz. But despite its rich past, the city’s famous festivals, excellent museums and galleries, as well as the modern Scottish Parliament, are reminders that Edinburgh has its feet firmly in the 21st century.Nearly everywhere in Edinburgh (the burgh is always pronounced burra in Scotland) there are spectacular buildings, whose Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian pillars add touches of neoclassical grandeur to the largely Presbyterian backdrop. Large gardens are a strong feature of central Edinburgh, where the city council is one of the most stridently conservationist in Europe. Arthur's Seat, a mountain of bright green and yellow furze, rears up behind the spires of the Old Town. This child-size mountain jutting 822 feet above its surroundings has steep slopes and little crags, like a miniature Highlands set down in the middle of the busy city. Appropriately, these theatrical elements match Edinburgh's character—after all, the city has been a stage that has seen its fair share of romance, violence, tragedy, and triumph.Modern Edinburgh has become a cultural capital, staging the Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe Festival in every possible venue each August. The stunning Museum of Scotland complements the city’s wealth of galleries and artsy hangouts. Add Edinburgh’s growing reputation for food and nightlife and you have one of the world’s most beguiling cities.Today the city is the second most important financial center in the United Kingdom, and the fifth most important in Europe. The city regularly is ranked near the top in quality-of-life surveys. Accordingly, New Town apartments on fashionable streets sell for considerable sums. In some senses the city is showy and materialistic, but Edinburgh still supports learned societies, some of which have their roots in the Scottish Enlightenment. The Royal Society of Edinburgh, for example, established in 1783 "for the advancement of learning and useful knowledge," remains an important forum for interdisciplinary activities.Even as Edinburgh moves through the 21st century, its tall guardian castle remains the focal point of the city and its venerable history. Take time to explore the streets—peopled by the spirits of Mary, Queen of Scots; Sir Walter Scott; and Robert Louis Stevenson—and pay your respects to the world's best-loved terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. In the evenings you can enjoy candlelit restaurants or a folk ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee, a traditional Scottish dance with music), though you should remember that you haven't earned your porridge until you've climbed Arthur's Seat. Should you wander around a corner, say, on George Street, you might see not an endless cityscape, but blue sea and a patchwork of fields. This is the county of Fife, beyond the inlet of the North Sea called the Firth of Forth—a reminder, like the mountains to the northwest that can be glimpsed from Edinburgh's highest points, that the rest of Scotland lies within easy reach.

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Scotland and make our way to Edinburgh airport, sharing the journey with your fellow travellers.