Escape to vibrant Edinburgh, where history and modernity meet in a cosmopolitan city set against the striking landscape of Scotland. Originally Scotland's defensive fortress for hundreds of years with its position presiding over the North Sea, Edinburgh is now a must-see destination, as is its namesake - Edinburgh Castle - which you'll enjoy exploring on your tour with skip-the-line access. See wooded lochs and tucked-away villages as you journey through spectacular scenery en route to Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park and Fort Augustus on your personalized small-group day trip to the Scottish Highlands.

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe, and one of the oldest fortified palaces, and is sure to capture your imagination! Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, the castle is home to the National War Museum and the National Monument. On your tour you can walk through Crown Square, the main courtyard of the castle, and see the Crown Jewels of Scotland, including the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs. Your walking tour saves you valuable time with skip-the-line access, allowing you to stay and explore the fortress independently for as long as you like.

As you head into the Scottish Highlands to explore Loch Ness and Glencoe, get comfortable inside your 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach and depart central Edinburgh. This small group tour will take you to Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument and Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Journey onward through the 18th-century Fort William, and gaze upon the Great Glen. Reaching Fort Augustus, disembark on the shores of Loch Ness, where you can opt for a seasonal boat ride on the loch and listen for the Loch Ness Monster on the sonar system. After a lunch break, continue your drive to Cairngorms National Park via Spean Bridge village. Your scenic journey continues over the Drumochter Summit to the Victorian town of Pitlochry.

A beautiful and cultured city, you will find a wealth of things to do in Edinburgh. Discover nearby historic attractions like the shops along Princes Street, the National Museum of Scotland or the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, all within walking distance of the hotels. Start your Royal Mile journey at Edinburgh Castle and take in the dramatic panorama over Scotland's capital. From there, walk down the cobbled street past the St. Giles Cathedral, John Knox's House and shops selling Scottish crafts and tartan goods. At the end of the Mile, you'll find a uniquely Scottish marriage of old and new power, where Holyrood Palace sits opposite the Scottish Parliament. After a day spent sightseeing, Edinburgh at night is not to be missed. Take in a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse, enjoy a meal at one of Edinburgh's Michelin-starred restaurants or dance the night away in the lively clubs on George Street or the Cowgate.

Stay at your choice of four wonderful hotels in the city. A stay along Edinburgh's vibrant Royal Mile at the alluring Hotel Radisson Blu puts you in the ideal location for exploring this breathtaking and historic city! Formerly The Principal Edinburgh Charlotte Square, the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel is in the heart of the New Town, a UNESCO world heritage site, and exudes a genuine sense of Scottish hospitality. Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel is situated in the city's historic and beautiful old town, just a couple of minutes' walk from the world famous Royal Mile and the Scottish Parliament building, putting you near the Waverley Railway station and the bustle of the city's main thoroughfare, Princes Street. And the Apex Grassmarket Hotel is a stylish property that offers contemporary comfort in an ideal location.