Edinburgh, Fantastic City Break Visit the capital city of Scotland where the famous Castle sits on an extinct volcano, where Her Majesty the Queen’s Holyrood Palace is situated, the Scottish Parliament stirs, where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was born and much, much more to see. Edinburgh 3 nights or 4 nights Arrival: Greeted at the airport on arrival with champagne and taken to your hotel. Tour of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile Edinburgh Castle is an ancient stronghold which dominates the sky-line of the city of Edinburgh from its position atop the volcanic Castle Rock. Human habitation of the site is dated back as far as the 9th century BC, although the nature of early settlement is unclear. There has been a Royal Castle here since at least the reign of David I in the 12th century, and the site continued to be a royal residence until the Union of the Crowns in 1603. As one of the most important fortresses in the Kingdom of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle has been involved in many historical conflicts, from the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century, up to the Jacobite Rising of 1745, and has been besieged, both successfully and unsuccessfully, on several occasions. From the later 17th century, the Castle became a military base, with a large garrison. Aboard Her Majesty the Queen’s Royal Yacht Britannia This magnificent ship has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, she was home to Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family. Now in Edinburgh you are welcome on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences Whisky Tasting Learn the art of Whisky tasting and become a member of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Not only will you learn and taste some of the best whiskies in the world but you will also enjoy an ‘a la carte’ dinner after the tasting. After this tasting you will be an expert and discover your favourites among many whiskies. Holyrood Palace Have a tour in The Palace of Holyrood house is the official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty the Queen. This fine baroque palace is closely associated with Scotland's rich history. The Palace is perhaps best known as the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and as the setting for many of the dramatic episodes in her turbulent reign. Mary was married at Holyrood house and witnessed the brutal killing of her secretary Rizzio by her jealous second husband, Lord Darnley. The Palace briefly served as the headquarters of Bonnie Prince Charlie during the 1745 uprising. Today the State Apartments are used regularly by The Queen and other members of the Royal Family for State ceremonies and official entertaining. Shopping / Free time Shop at the world famous Edinburgh Woollen Mill and the traditional Scotland shops. Or shop on the famous Princess Street or boutique Streets of George Street, Thistle Street and Harvey Nichols on ‘The Walk’. Scottish Dining During your stay you will enjoy the finest foods from the finest restaurants in Scotland. If you would like to venture from Edinburgh we can add a day at the award winning Gleneagles for activities such as shooting, falconry, 4x4 Driving or relaxation in the spa. Or take you on a trip to the Famous Grouse Distillery. 4 and 5 star Hotels / Castles to choose from on our hotel list. You can choose to be in centre of the city in all the action or stay in a peaceful private estate in a Scottish castle. This tour can be extended or combined with another one of our tours. Copyright 2009 Travel Direct (UK) Ltd