Oslo
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Oslo City Tour - 4 hours
Drive through the center of Oslo, passing all of the main sights and highlights, including the Royal Palace and the Nobel Institute. View the City Hall, inaugurated in 1950 at Oslo's 900-year jubilee. Akershus Fortress, sitting boldly on the waterfront is today partly a museum and a military area.
Pass the Parliament Building before entering Karl Johan Street, named after the Swedish-Norwegian king in the early part of the 19th century. The oldest part of Oslo University, dating back to 1813, lines this street. It is famous for its interior decoration by the painter Edvard Munch.
You will also pass through attractive villa areas on the way to Vigeland Park. This enormous open-space was laid out in the first half of the 20th century by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Over a period of 30 years, he created his own world of human beings and animals from stone, iron and bronze. There are about 200 statue groups in all, which describe the course of human life from birth to death. The monolith, a 56-foot high granite block carved with 121 figures stands as the unequivocal centerpiece of this well-planned park.
On the Bygdøy Peninsula you will visit the Viking Ship Museum. It houses three authentic longboats dating from the Viking Age, around AD 900-1000, which were excavated from the mudbanks along Oslo fjord. The museum also holds a large collection of items found on board the ships, such as household goods, tools, jewelry and clothing.
| Basis: |
Private tour. |
| Duration: |
4 hours. |
| Start / End: |
City center Hotel, address or Pier. |
| Vehicle: |
01st Class. |
| Guide: |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances: |
Viking Ship Museum. |
| Meals: |
None. |
| Difficulty: |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes: |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Oslo Tour to Drøbak - 5 hours
Located 40 minutes outside of Oslo, on the east side of the Oslo Fjord, lies Drøbak. The narrow 18th- and 19th-century streets lined with small wooden houses give the town an idyllic touch. On an island just outside Drøbak you can visit the fortress Oscarsborg.
The centre of Drøbak is the square Torget where you find the popular Tregaarden's Christmas House and Santa's Post Office. They have Norway's biggest permanent Christmas exhibition and a special Santa Claus post stamp. By the charming boat harbour there is also an Aquarium, with the world's only "lutefisk" museum, and Badeparken a little north of the centre is a great place for swimming.
From Sjøtorget there are regular ferries to the Oscarsborg Fortress. The trip takes 5 minutes.
The construction of the fortress was finished in 1853. It got the name Oscarsborg when king Oscar I visited the fortress in 1855. The fortress has a proud and dramatic history and is best known for the sinking of the German heavy cruiser Blücher on 9 April 1940 during World War II.
Oscarsborg Fortress is a jewel in the Drøbak narrow. In summer, Oscarsborg is perfect for families and for those interested in nature, culture and history. Oscarsborg Fortress Museum presents the history of the place and organises guided tours. There are plenty of activities for children. A safari through the subterranean tunnels below the fortress, obstacle courses, bathing beaches and crab fishing.
| Basis: |
Private tour. |
| Duration: |
5 hours. |
| Start / End: |
City center Hotel, address or Pier. |
| Vehicle: |
01st Class. |
| Guide: |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances: |
Oscarsborg Museum |
| Meals: |
None. |
| Difficulty: |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes: |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Oslo Bicycle tour – 3 Hours
Discover an alternative Oslo, full of street art, hip cafés, surprising waterfalls, great food and award winning coffee.
During this approximately 3-hour bike tour, you will ride the path along the Akerselva River, with a stop at the heart of Oslo’s food scene, the indoor food market “Mathallen”. Mathallen is closed on Mondays.
Be amazed by rushing waterfalls in the middle of the city, just blocks from the trendy Grünerløkka neighborhood.
And an absolute must is a stop at the modern Opera and the exciting urban development around it, including a stop at Oslo's newest urban beach.
| Basis |
Private tour |
| Duration |
3 hours |
| Start / End |
Bicycle rental shop. |
| Vehicle |
None |
| Inclusions |
Bicycle and Helmet. |
| Guide |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances |
None |
| Meals |
None |
| Difficulty |
Grade Easy/Medium. Guests must be in good health and be comfortable riding a bicycle with hand brakes. The tour includes about 2½ hours of cycling, all at a leisurely pace. |
| Notes |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Oslo Explorer tour – 5 Hours
We start with Vulkan - The area is a fusion of culture and creative industry with schools, hotels, food hall, restaurants and exciting tenants. It is the diversity and composition of the players that make Vulkan exciting.
Mathallen Oslo is inspired by the great European food courts. Here you’ll find specialty shops, cafés and great places to eat. The food court will also put on a number of food-related activities like conferences, courses, fairs and competitions. Mathallen Oslo is the place to go for everyone who appreciates high quality food and bevergages and something unique. There will be time for light lunch at Mathallen during the tour.
On the east side of the river Akerselva, behind the old industrial buildings, lies Grünerløkka. Here you will discover numerous little cafés, restaurants and bars. Grünerløkka is also a popular shopping district, with original design shops and many vintage and second-hand stores.
During the tour we will have an outside visit to the Opera House. Officially opened in April 2008, the Oslo Opera House was designed by the acclaimed Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta. The Opera House, which took five years to complete, sits on the bank of the Bjørvika district, near the stock exchange and the central station.
A visit to Oslo is not complete without a brief wal through Vigeland´s Sculpture Park .The sculpture park is Gustav Vigeland's life work, comprising over 200 sculptures in granite, bronze and wrought iron. It was installed mainly in the period 1940-1949, but is nevertheless a result of over 40 years of work. It is located in a beuatiful park and natural setting in the city.
Edvard Munch was one of Modernism's most significant artists and the other great Norgwian artist. The New Edvard Munch Museum will open at the end of 2020.
| Basis |
Private tour |
| Duration |
5 hours |
| Start / End |
City center Hotel, address or Pier. |
| Vehicle |
1st Class. |
| Guide |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances |
Edvard Munch Museum when it opens at the end 2020 |
| Meals |
None |
| Difficulty |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Oslo Holmenkollen tour – 6 Hours
The famous Holmenkollen ski-jump, located in the hills above Oslo afford a panorama view over the city and the fjord below.
Holmenkollen Ski Jump has been at the heart of Norwegian skiing for over 100 years. The first ski jumping competition took place on 31st January 1892 when 12,000 spectators were present. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is world famous and represents an international symbol of ski jumping and ski sport generally.
The Norsk Folkemuseum is Norway’s largest museum of cultural history. With collections from around the country, the museum shows how people lived in Norway from 1500 to the present. The 160 buildings in the Open-Air Museum represent different regions in Norway, different time periods, as well as differences between town, country and social classes. The Gol Stave Church dating from 1200 is one of five medieval buildings at the museum. The contemporary history is presented through exhibitions and documentation projects. Permanent indoor exhibitions include folk art, folk costumes, toys and Sami culture. There is also a variety of temporary exhibitions and audience programs all year round.
| Basis |
Private tour |
| Duration |
6 hours |
| Start / End |
City center Hotel, address or Pier. |
| Vehicle |
1st Class |
| Guide |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances |
Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the Norwegian Folksmuseum. |
| Meals |
None |
| Difficulty |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces |
| Notes |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Art Tour with visit of Vigeland Sculpture Park and Opera House in Oslo with Rickshaw transfers – 4 hours
This art tour starts on three wells, a more sustainable way of discovering the city!
Your rickshaw driver will take you to Frogner Park, the famous sculpture park of Oslo. This enormous open space was laid out in the first half of the 20th century by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Over a period of 30 years, he created his own world of human beings and animals from stone, iron and bronze. There are about 200 statue groups in all, which describe the course of human life from birth to death. The monolith, a 56-foot-high granite block carved with 121 figures stands as the unequivocal centerpiece of this well-planned park.
Along the ride your driver will tell you more about the Norwegian capital and one of the greatest artists in the country: Edvard Munch. The famous painter grew up in Oslo and started out as an artist in this city. Together with your driver you will follow his footsteps and pass by some of the places that have a significance in his life: his first studio, right in front of the Parliament Building, the Grand Café, a popular hangout for artists in the late 1800s, and Blomqvist art gallery, where he held several exhibitions. We continue towards Pilestredet 30, where Munch spent seven years of his childhood, and then to the campus of the University of Oslo where we will stop to learn about the Aula decorations.
The last stop of the tour is at the Opera House, where you will say goodbye to the rickshaw driver and meet the Opera´s guide, who will show you around this emblematic building in a private tour lasting around 50 minutes.
During the visit you are shown the theatre's unique rooms and stages, visit the backstage area, the Main Stage and talk about what happens behind the scenes before the curtain rises. You will also learn about the architecture, stage technology, opera and ballet.
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: Approx. 4 hours (3 hours for rickshaw tour + 50 mins visit of National Theatre).
Start / End: City Center/National Theatre.
Vehicle: Ricksaw (2 pax per vehicle)
Guide: English-speaking.
Entrances: Opera House.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
|
08/10/2024 |
08/10/2024 |
Stavanger
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Stavanger City Tour with Norwegian Oil Museum– 4 hours
Explore Norway's past and present during this picturesque 4 hour sightseeing tour that highlights historic Stavanger.
Stavanger, now known as the Oil Capital of Norway has since evolved into a prosperous modern city. Today journey starts with a scenic drive past the harbor area's quaint fish and farmer's market and residential areas. On route you will note how the city has retained its centuries-old roots through the preservation and renovation of its old architecture and infrastructure. Following on the tour takes you out of the city centre to Ullandhaug hill, a hilltop vantage point that commands a sweeping view of Stavanger and beyond to the sparkling Hafrsfjord.
After taking in the panoramic sights, we journey to the little beach at “Moellebukta” where you will see the impressive monument that was raised in commemoration of the battle that unified Norway. The monument, three 30 ft. high swords have been forced into the ground, symbolizing peace, unity and freedom.
It is now time to commence the journey back to the city center where the old residential section of Stavanger will be reached. Here we begin a leisurely walking tour which takes us through some of the narrow lanes that house Northern Europe's best-preserved wooden houses, dating from the late 17th and early 18th-century. The walking tour ends at the small lake where the Stavanger Cathedral is situated; one of a few cathedrals in Scandinavia that has kept its original features.
Join your awaiting vehicle for the transfer to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. During this part of the tour you will discover how oil and gas are created and extracted and how petroleum influences Norwegian society.
| Basis: |
Private Tour. |
| Duration: |
4 hours. |
| Start/End: |
City center Hotel or address. |
| Vehicle: |
1st Class. |
| Guide: |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances: |
Norwegian Petroleum Museum. |
| Meals: |
None. |
| Difficulty: |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes: |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Stavanger Food Tour – 3 hours
Indulge in 200 years of Norwegian food culture with tastings throughout Stavanger. We will discover the old town and its cobblestone streets, winding along the many well-preserved 18th- to early 20th-century buildings.
Your guide will mix tales of the city’s rich history with explanations of how Norwegians’ eating habits have evolved over the centuries. You will make stops along the way to savor the aromas and taste several different food items that have played a significant role in the development of Stavanger.
Start the tour passing by the Cathedral and market square before getting to the Norwegian Canning Museum where you will get a taste of canning smoked sardines and “flatbrød” bread. This culinary walk continues with a visit to one of the most popular eateries in the very heart of the city center - famous for their local specialties and unique house. Here you will taste a selection of Norwegian waffles and homemade specialties, a” must eat” if you are a foodie visiting Norway. The last stop will be to a local chocolatier in a narrow charming street. Here you will learn and see how chocolate is made while you enjoy a confectionary and a cup of warm chocolate topped with chili and whipped cream.
Many of Stavanger’s chefs are ranked among the best in Europe, and Stavanger is considered a premier culinary destination. If you want to combine sightseeing with a gastronomical experience, this is the right tour for you!
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Start / End: City.
Vehicle: None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.
Entrances: Norwegian Canning Museum.
Meals: Tastings.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. Veggie option may be possible upon request. The tour is not offered on public holidays.
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Cruise in the Lysefjord with walking tour and traditional lunch in Stavanger– 6 hours
Start this tour at the pier and get on board of a brand new and full electric boat. This boat will take you on an unforgettable sailing tour in the Lysefjord.
Once on board you will enjoy a striking scenery from the comfort of our boat’s sheltered cabin with panoramic windows all around. However, we strongly recommend you venture out on the spacious sundeck.
During the tour you will have majestic views of one of the most famous attractions in Norway, the Preikestolen or “Pulpit Rock”. The boat will also pass by the Vagabond’s Cave, and you will hear more about the legend of this mysterious opening in the mountain. Our captain will carefully nudge the boat’s bow up the Hengjane Falls to feel the spray of mountain water.
Once the boat tour is over, you will walk a few hundred meters to the local restaurant where you will enjoy a delicious and traditional Norwegian lunch. After lunch you will meet your guide to have a 2 hours walking tour. Our guide will take you around the main spots of the city, walking the cobblestone streets of the old Stavanger. You will pass by the market square, the Cathedral of the 12th century, the harbor bay and statue of Alexander Kielland, former mayor of Stavanger and well-known writer. You will discover the typical wooden houses of the old town and much more!
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: Approx.6 hours (3 hours cruise + 1 hour for lunch at Local Restaurant on your own + 2 hours walking tour).
Start / End: Pier/ City.
Vehicle: None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.
Entrances: 3 hours cruise.
Meals: Traditional Lunch at local restaurant (Catch of the day or Fish Soup or Caesar Salad or Veggie dish).
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. The tour is not offered on Sundays and Public Holidays.
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Stavanger City Walk– 2 hours
In this 2 our walking tour you will discover Stavanger´s old town, with its cobblestone streets and small wooden houses.
Our guide will introduce you to some of the city’s main icons and personalities and their influence on today’s living standards. You will pass by the market square, the Cathedral of the 12th century and the harbor bay and statue of Alexander Kielland, former mayor of Stavanger and well-known writer.
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: 2 hours.
Start / End: City.
Vehicle: None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.
Entrances: None.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
|
08/12/2024 |
08/12/2024 |
Alesund
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Ålesund Walking Tour – 3 Hours
Ålesund differs from most other Norwegian cities with its large concentration of buildings in the Jugend style of architecture. The explanation for this is simple; the town burned to the ground during the Great Fire of 1904. Rebuilding the city took a full three years, aided by numerous local contributions and large donations from the German Kaiser Wilhelm II.
The city planners agreed on consistently using the contemporary style of architecture, Jugend style (also known as Art Nouveau). It is a style characterized by artistic playfulness, fetching inspiration from organic forms and shapes in nature.
This combination of fjords, mountains and a town centre built in so-called art nouveau-style are some of the factors that resulted in Ålesund pinching first place in a survey by the Norwegian daily newspaper Dagbladet. Larger cities like Bergen (second place) and Trondheim (fourth place) – perhaps more famous for their beauty – were not considered to be as scenic as Ålesund when the Norwegians themselves cast their votes.
Walking tour through the winding old city streets, you will learn about the town's historic past. The tour takes in the Art Nouveau houses in the town itself, taking a stroll in the magnificent central district that displays beautiful houses with numerous and elaborate towers, spears and ornaments.
| Basis: |
Private tour. |
| Duration: |
3 hours. |
| Start / End: |
City center Hotel or address. |
| Vehicle: |
None. |
| Guide: |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances: |
None. |
| Meals: |
None. |
| Difficulty: |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes: |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
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Ålesund City Tour – 4 Hours
Experience the splendid beauty and history of Ålesund during this picturesque 4 hour excursion through the city and its surroundings, via private vehicle, driver and local English Speaking Guide. Ålesund, a city built in an Art Nouveau style following a catastrophic fire in 1904. One of a few Art Nouveau towns in the world (Jugend style), Ålesund is home to an atmospheric distinct character that is warmly embraced by the locals.
Drive towards the Art Nouveau center of the town, marvel at the amazing decorations and colourful facades. A brief walking tour through the winding old city streets follows where you will learn about the town's historic past. A stop is made on route to the Art Nouveau Centre for a fascinating insight into Art Nouveau through authentic interiors and objects, as well as a captivating multimedia program called “From Ashes to Art Nouveau”. Here you can experience the devastating 1904 fire via film together with photographs and impressive sound and light effects.
Board your vehicle for the journey out of town towards Borgund, the largest trading centre in Sunnmøre during the Viking Era. Here you will view the picturesque Borgund Church followed by a visit to the inviting Sunnmøre Open Air Folk Museum, focusing on Norwegian coastal culture. Enjoy a stroll between the picturesque houses and the indoor exhibitions and get an insight into the cultural and architectural history of Sunnmøre and the Norwegian coastal culture. Heading back towards the city center, we detour with a drive up Mount Aksla. From this location, a panoramic view of the archipelago, the beautiful town center of Ålesund lying quietly below and the spectacular Sunnmøre Alps opens up in front of you. Return journey back to the city center.
| Basis: |
Private tour |
| Duration: |
4 hours. |
| Start / End: |
City center Hotel or address. |
| Vehicle: |
1st Class. |
| Guide: |
English-speaking. Other languages on request. |
| Entrances: |
Art Nouveau Centre, Sunnmøre Open Air Folk Museum. |
| Meals: |
None. |
| Difficulty: |
Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces. |
| Notes: |
Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. |
|
08/13/2024 |
08/13/2024 |
Edinburgh
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours
With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city, Edinburgh provides a fantastic introduction to this magical country. This morning you will receive a warm welcome by your local guide as you disembark your cruise for your full day sightseeing tour (8 hours) by private vehicle.
You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.
Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.
*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.
Highlights:
- Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
- Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
- Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.
- Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
- Supplement for public holidays
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.
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Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours
The capital city of Scotland is undoubtedly one of the most dramatically-situated cities in Europe; this setting has had a profound effect on its historical development and today your expert local guide unravels these themes on a half-day sightseeing tour. The focal point of the city is Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress that symbolises the Scottish nation and is home to the 'Honours of Scotland', the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles. From the impressive military installations there are stunning views of the city. The Royal Mile stretches down on from castle through the 'Old Town' of Edinburgh, at the heart of which is St. Giles Cathedral. This fascinating Gothic church is topped by a fine medieval spire in the shape of a crown. At the foot of the Royal Mile is Holyrood Palace, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland*. The palace's neighbour is the much more recent Scottish Parliament Building; its striking contemporary designs are in eye-catching contrast to the classical style of the palace.
*Tour of palace staterooms is included if no member of the Royal Family is present at time of visit
Highlights:
- Take in the stunning views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress home to the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles
- At the foot of the Royal Mile see Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament Building
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
|
08/24/2024 |
08/25/2024 |
