Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
13 Days Starting in Edinburgh, United Kingdom and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Edinburgh, Inverness, Glencoe, Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, Giant's Causeway, Derry, Dublin
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16061
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures of Scotland and Ireland with the "Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo" tour. Experience the majestic beauty of Loch Ness and the historic Urquhart Castle, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Edinburgh, including a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Discover the rich history of Derry and Belfast, and enjoy the stunning natural wonders of the Giant's Causeway. Delight in traditional Scottish and Irish experiences, from a ceilidh gathering to a sheepdog demonstration, and savor local flavors with whisky and cider tastings. This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences, culminating in the vibrant city of Dublin. Join us for an adventure that captures the essence of these captivating lands.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu
From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.
Day 2 : Edinburgh, Scotland
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. With no planned activities today, take your time to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of this lively capital. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3 : Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel
This morning, visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, and enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh’s new town and an insightful walking tour up the Royal Mile to the castle. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city further at your leisure. Later this evening, take your seat at the spectacular, world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland's greatest events.
Day 4 : Edinburgh - St. Andrews - Inverness
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Depart Edinburgh and travel onto St. Andrews, the beautiful town in the Kingdom of Fife that gave the world the game of golf – see the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse and the famous Old Course. Continue on to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.
Day 5 : Inverness - Loch Ness - Inverness
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Hilton
This morning, take a scenic cruise on Loch Ness before disembarking at the base of famed Urquhart Castle. Explore the ruins of this historic stronghold, home to chivalry and defiance for more than 1,000 years of Scottish history. Return to Inverness and have time to explore the city or take a riverside walk. This evening, enjoy a Highland gathering (ceilidh) filled with storytelling, singing, and Scottish dancing.
Day 6 : Inverness - Glencoe - Glasgow
Location: Glencoe
Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel
Depart Inverness and visit one of the oldest licensed whisky distilleries in Scotland. After a tour and a tasting, continue to the scenic valley of Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most historic and breathtaking glens. Your day ends in Glasgow.
Day 7 : Glasgow - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Location: Belfast
Accommodation Name: Hotel
This morning, explore Glasgow with a local guide. Highlights include a visit to George Square; passing by Glasgow Cathedral and Provand’s Lordship, the oldest house in the city; and discovering the rich industrial heritage of the area. Travel to the scenic Ayrshire coast to your ferry. Cross the Irish Sea as you head for Northern Ireland’s capital city of Belfast.
Day 8 : Belfast
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Accommodation Name: City Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Enjoy a privately guided tour of Belfast, Northern Ireland’s largest city. Learn about the struggles in this great city’s history as you pass through its distinctive neighborhoods. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the award-winning Titanic Experience Museum -OR- visit Ulster Museum, Northern Ireland’s treasure house of the past and present. This afternoon is yours to further explore this fascinating city before joining your fellow travelers for dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 9 : Belfast - Glens Of Antrim - Giant's Causeway - Derry
Location: Giant's Causeway
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Venture along the stunning Antrim Coastal Route, stopping at the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO). Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the causeway resembles an old cobbled road leading mystically into the sea. Then, embark on one of the world’s most beautiful railway* journeys along the Causeway Coast. Soak up the incredible scenery before arriving at the walled city of Derry. Set out on a walking tour featuring the medieval walls, St. Augustine's Cathedral, and the Guildhall. Perhaps you’ll discover why Derry is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets during an optional evening at a pub serving traditional food and featuring a local singer playing Irish music.
Day 10 : Derry - Donegal Town - Derry
Location: Derry
Accommodation Name: Herbert Park Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Today’s journey showcases the rugged beauty of County Donegal. Start your day with a visit to Donegal Castle, a restored 15th-century castle with a unique history. Enjoy some free time to explore Donegal Town, a picturesque village at the mouth of the River Eske. Return to Derry, where tonight, it’s Diner’s Choice... choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of Derry’s great restaurants.
Day 11 : Derry - Dublin, Ireland
Location: Derry
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Depart on a journey through the scenic countryside of Northern Ireland, stopping at Glenshane Country Farm to meet the working dogs and see them in action. With lunch at the farm, you can enjoy the relaxed and leisurely pace of the countryside. Then visit a family-run cider farm; meet the family and explore the orchards before sampling their award-winning Irish ciders. Continue on to the Republic of Ireland. Your day concludes in Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital city.
Day 12 : Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
A locally guided tour of Dublin highlights the world-renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and the city’s magnificent rows of lovely Georgian town homes. You may choose to join an optional tour with lunch at a local pub followed by a visit to the Guinness Storehouse Museum. Spend the rest of your day at leisure as you delve further into Dublin's cultural treasures. This evening, toast the end of an incredible adventure during a farewell dinner at one of the city’s most popular local restaurants.
Day 13 : Dublin - Tour Ends
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Your tour comes to a close.
What's Included
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Scenic Cruise on Loch Ness
Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness and explore Urquhart Castle.
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Tour of Dublin
Tour the 'Fair City' of Dublin with a local guide.
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Walking Tour of Derry
Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.
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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
See the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a tribute to Scotland’s traditions.
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Scottish Ceilidh
Connect to Scottish culture at a local ceilidh, a traditional gathering that includes music and dance.
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Sheepdog Demonstration
Meet working sheepdogs and see them in action on a local farm.
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Whisky Distillery Tour
Take a tour (and have a tasting!) at one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries.
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Apple Cider Tasting
Taste fresh apple cider at a family-run farm.
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Diner's Choice in Derry
Enjoy a 'Diner’s Choice...' choose dinner from a 'menu' of great Derry restaurants.
What's Not Included
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Transportation for Optional Activities
Transportation is not included for the optional evening at a pub in Derry.
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Optional Tour in Dublin
The optional tour with lunch at a local pub followed by a visit to the Guinness Storehouse Museum is not included.
Experiences
Connect to Scottish culture at a local ceilidh, a traditional gathering that includes music and dance.Meet working sheepdogs and see them in action on a local farm.Discover how Derry has become a cultural city with a vibrant and growing scene.
Options
Derry: The Spirit of Derry Explore one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. Enjoy a fun and engaging evening with a local singer/songwriter and discover how the tale of Derry is intertwined with many of Ireland's most important events. Come and experience a three-course dinner at a restaurant serving pub-style food. See first-hand why Derry was named the UK City of Culture in 2013. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is not included A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Dublin: Pub Lunch & The Guinness Storehouse Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a historic pub where you will soak up the atmosphere of days gone by. After lunch, continue on to the nearby Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. Learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage and discover the technique needed to pour the perfect pint! Classic Guinness ads and memorabilia create a nostalgic ambiance as you indulge in a complimentary pint and learn about a different yet key part of Ireland's history. Duration approximately 3.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
This option must be booked at least 7 days prior to departure and will not be offered during Dublin's St. Patrick’s Day Festival (March 14-18). Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult and may not participate in the tasting.
Culinaries
Take a tour (and have a tasting!) at one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries.Taste fresh apple cider at a family-run farm.Enjoy a “Diner’s Choice...” choose dinner from a “menu” of great Derry restaurants.
Must See
Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness and explore Urquhart Castle.Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.See the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a tribute to Scotland’s traditions.
Choice Highlights
Edinburgh Edinburgh is the capital and second most populous city in Scotland. Edinburgh has been recognized as the capital of Scotland since the 15th century. The city's various historical and cultural attractions, as well as the appeal to the tourist market, makes Edinburgh the most popular tourist destination in the UK after London, attracting over 1 million overseas visitors each year.
Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle is a historic castle and fortress located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It sits atop Castle Rock in the city center and is an integral part of Edinburgh’s skyline. In present day the castle is a major tourist attraction for the city. It is the most visited paid visitor attraction in Scotland.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Since 1950 the iconic Edinburgh Military Tattoo has dazzled millions of spectators with performances from musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers. This epic show, unique every year, takes place at the haunting Edinburgh Castle illuminated under the open sky. In the past, the show’s themes have paid tribute to nature, Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday, and Scotland's homecoming, to name a few. This international festival comes alive with performers from a multitude of countries and audience members from around the world. Military pageantry and cultural celebrations, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display, set the stage for an amazing evening.
St. Andrews St. Andrews is a former royal borough on the east coast of Scotland. It is home to the University of St. Andrews, the 3rd oldest university in the English speaking world, as well as the oldest university in Scotland. St. Andrews is known as the worldwide home of golf. Many visitors come to St. Andrews for the golf courses, which are ranked some of the finest in the world. The Open Championship, the oldest of golf’s four major championships, is frequently held in St. Andrews.
Loch Ness Cruise
Urquhart Castle The ruins of this once mighty site rest on the headwaters of Loch Ness. Dating back as far as the 13th century, Urquhart Castle (one of the largest in the country) has been a part of the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Distillery Visit
Glasgow Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland which is situated on the River Clyde in Scotland’s West Central Lowlands. Glasgow is one of Europe’s top financial centers, and is home to many of Scotland’s leading businesses. The city is renowned for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people.
Belfast Belfast is the capital and largest city in Northern Ireland. Belfast is known as the city where the Titanic was built. Due to the ship's construction here, a popular attraction to see in Belfast is the Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience.
Giant's Causeway At the foot of the basalt cliffs on the coast of Northern Ireland’s County of Antrim lies the stunning Giant’s Causeway. Travelers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience the 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea. The natural phenomena has sparked legends of giants and magic, but its unique geology points to volcanic activity from over 50 million years ago. Walk along the gorgeous sea coast…step on the hexagonal formations of the sea-level Causeway itself…and behold the Giant’s Boot and Chimney Stacks. Just don’t forget your camera. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most beautiful sights in all of Ireland and the experience of a lifetime.
Sheepdog Demonstration
Cider Farm Tour
Dublin Dublin is the capital and the largest city in Ireland. Dublin is located on Ireland’s east coast, and sits at the mouth of the River Liffey. Dublin was founded in 841 by the Vikings. Today, Dublin is the economic center of Ireland and the historical and contemporary center for industry, education and the arts.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Scotland and Ireland with scenic cruises, guided tours, and ferry crossings. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh, a cruise on Loch Ness, and a ferry ride across the Irish Sea to Belfast, ensuring a seamless and picturesque journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Radisson Blu in Edinburgh, the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, and the Hilton in Inverness. Experience the Maldron Hotel in Glasgow and the City Hotel in Belfast, with a final stay at the Herbert Park Hotel in Derry.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-famous event held at Edinburgh Castle, featuring performances from musicians, pipers, drummers, singers, and dancers. It is a tribute to Scotland's traditions and includes military pageantry and cultural celebrations, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display.
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What can I expect during the Loch Ness cruise?
During the Loch Ness cruise, you will embark on a scenic journey on the beautiful Loch Ness and have the opportunity to explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, which has been a part of Scottish history for over 1,000 years.
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What activities are included in the Highland gathering (ceilidh)?
The Highland gathering, or ceilidh, includes storytelling, singing, and Scottish dancing, providing an immersive experience into Scottish culture.
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What is the significance of the Giant's Causeway?
The Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the coast of Northern Ireland's County of Antrim. It features 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The site is steeped in legends of giants and magic.
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What can I do during the free time in Dublin?
During your free time in Dublin, you can explore the city's cultural treasures, visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, O'Connell Street, and Phoenix Park, or join an optional tour with lunch at a local pub followed by a visit to the Guinness Storehouse Museum.
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What is included in the tour of Belfast?
The tour of Belfast includes a privately guided exploration of the city, learning about its historical struggles, and visiting either the Titanic Experience Museum or the Ulster Museum.
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What is the 'Diner's Choice' experience in Derry?
The 'Diner's Choice' experience in Derry allows you to choose dinner from a menu of great local restaurants, offering a variety of dining options to suit your preferences.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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