Edinburgh Luxury Private Day Tour | The Royal Experience

Exploring Edinburgh in Style: Our Take on the Luxury Private Day Tour

If you’re thinking about spending a day in Edinburgh and want to do so comfortably and with a touch of class, the Edinburgh Luxury Private Day Tour by Aura Journeys might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve looked at reviews, itineraries, and what it offers to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really caught our attention are the convenience of private transportation—no dealing with public transit or large crowds—and the ability to customize the stops based on your interests. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price, which is on the higher side at over $700 per person, but for many, the comfort and flexibility could make it worth it.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, personalized experience and are happy to pay a premium for luxury, convenience, and freedom to shape the day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to avoid the hassle of navigating the city on your own, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Private Chauffeur Service: Travel between sights in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes Benz with your own driver.
• Flexible & Customizable: No rigid schedule—you can prioritize what interests you most and even add or skip stops.
• Top Sights Covered: Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyroodhouse, Calton Hill, and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
• Ideal for Comfort & Ease: No need to worry about public transport or crowded tour buses—just sit back and enjoy.
• Cost Reflects Luxury & Personalization: The price is steep but includes a door-to-door service and a tailored experience.

What to Expect from the Tour: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting at Grassmarket Square

The tour kicks off in the lively Grassmarket area, a spot with a dark past but today packed with vibrant shops and pubs. Our review of the area reveals a place full of character—medieval architecture, views of Edinburgh Castle, and pubs that echo stories of history. One reviewer loved how this area blended history with modern life, noting, “The detailed medieval architecture and stunning castle views make it one of the city’s most-loved areas.”

While only a brief stop (15 minutes), it’s a perfect introduction to Edinburgh’s layered past. You can wander around, snap photos, or peek inside a pub like The Last Drop or Maggie Dickson’s, which keep alive tales from centuries ago.

Edinburgh Castle

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a stop at this iconic fortress. The tour includes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace. While the admission isn’t included, you’ll have the chance to learn about Scotland’s royal history, enjoy breathtaking city views, and walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, and soldiers.

One review notes that exploring the castle is “a highlight of any Scottish adventure,” and it’s easy to see why. The castle’s history as a military fortress, royal residence, and even a prison makes it a fascinating stop. The flexibility of the tour means you can choose to explore on your own or perhaps use an audio guide if available.

The Royal Mile on Foot

Since the Royal Mile is pedestrian-only, your driver will drop you off for a walk along this historic street. It’s a bustling stretch peppered with shops, cafes, and landmarks like St Giles Cathedral. The review mentions that the Royal Mile is “overlooked by impressive tenements,” and offers lots to see and do.

You’ll love the energy here, but it can be busy, and walking it gives you the chance to really soak in the atmosphere. If you’re tired, your driver can pick you up and take you to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the next stop.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

This royal residence at the end of the Royal Mile is rich with stories of Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The tour allows about an hour to explore the State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the gardens. The multimedia guide adds context to the grandeur, making the visit more engaging.

While the Palace isn’t included in the admission fee, knowing it’s used for state ceremonies today adds a modern touch to its historic charm. It’s a place where you can imagine Scottish royalty and the monarchy’s ongoing ties to the city.

Calton Hill & the National Monuments

A short 30-minute stop provides stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh. The UNESCO World Heritage site is dotted with monuments, including Nelson’s Monument and the Dugald Stewart Memorial. This is a great spot for photos and to get a sense of the city’s layout from above.

Recent visitors appreciate this stop for its breathtaking vistas and iconic Scottish monuments. Plus, the City Observatory now hosts a contemporary art space, offering a bit of culture and creativity if you’re interested.

Royal Yacht Britannia

The final stop takes you to Leith, where the Royal Yacht Britannia is berthed. It’s a floating palace that housed the British Royal Family for over 40 years. The audio tour here is highly recommended, giving you insights into the yacht’s history and the royal visits it hosted.

One review highlights the warmth of the welcome and the fascinating displays. “Tour Britannia’s five decks and feel like royalty,” the reviewer says. Since the ticket isn’t included, be prepared for an additional cost, but many find this experience well worth it, especially if you’re interested in royal history.

Why Choose This Tour? The Value of a Luxurious, Flexible Approach

While the price point is significant, it reflects the level of comfort, convenience, and customization you get with this private tour. You won’t be crammed onto a bus or stuck with strangers—your driver is also your guide, which means more tailored commentary and the ability to steer your day.

The luxury vehicle ensures you stay comfortable between stops, and the door-to-door service makes logistics effortless—perfect if you’re arriving from a cruise or staying in Glasgow. The flexibility to cut or extend stops means this isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience; it adapts to your pace and interests.

That said, one review pointed out that the driver also acts as a guide, which isn’t always explicitly clear in the listing. Some travelers might expect a dedicated guide or a more in-depth commentary, but the upside is the personalized service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prioritize comfort and customization. If you’re not keen on navigating Edinburgh’s narrow streets yourself or managing large groups, this private tour offers a stress-free alternative. It’s also a good choice for those celebrating a special event or wanting a more intimate look at the city’s highlights.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a more structured group tour with a guide providing detailed historical insights, this might feel a bit too plush or flexible for your taste.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those valuing luxury, ease, and tailored experiences, this private Edinburgh tour delivers on all fronts. The ability to choose what sights matter most, combined with a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable driver, makes for a memorable day.

That said, the cost is not insignificant, and some reviewers felt the “driver not guide” aspect might limit the depth of historical commentary—something to keep in mind if that’s a priority for you. Still, the reviews highlight that many guests leave with a sense of having seen the city in a relaxed, enjoyable way, often saying their experience exceeded expectations.

This tour is best if you’re looking for a luxury, personalized day in Edinburgh, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise or staying nearby and want to maximize your time without the hassle.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s flexible and private nature makes it suitable for travelers with children, especially if they enjoy sightseeing and manageable walking. The vehicle’s comfort and the ability to customize stops could work well for families with moderate physical fitness levels.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour price doesn’t include admission to attractions like Edinburgh Castle or Holyroodhouse. You’ll need to purchase those tickets separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour description emphasizes its flexibility, allowing you to prioritize specific sights or skip others based on your interests.

What transportation is provided?
A luxurious, air-conditioned Mercedes Benz chauffeur vehicle is included, providing comfort and style throughout the day.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, most guests book about 75 days ahead, suggesting that availability might be limited closer to your preferred date.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized way to see Edinburgh’s highlights in style, this private tour offers just that. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to combine comfort, flexibility, and a touch of luxury while exploring one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities.