Book your 2026 & 2027 adventures Risk free.
Day 1: Edinburgh
Check in to your Edinburgh hotel in the afternoon, and then spend the rest of your day doing as little or as much as you wish. Collect your tickets to the evening’s Military Tattoo and your hop-on-hop-off ticket in central Edinburgh, then perhaps stroll into town for lunch (own expense) or use your hop-on hop-off tour ticket to sightsee independently around the city.
Aboard an open-top double-decker bus, travel around central Edinburgh and hop on and off at any of the 24 stops. Perhaps visit Greyfriars Bobby to have your photo taken next to the statue of the beloved Scottish dog, or pay a visit to St Giles’ Cathedral. Entrance fees to attractions are at your own expense, and the ticket is valid for 24 hours from time of first use. See the Itinerary for a list of the stops.
Overnight: 3-star Holiday Inn Express, Motel One or Premier Inn in central Edinburgh
Day 2: Military Tattoo in Edinburgh (B)
After breakfast in your hotel, the morning and afternoon are yours to enjoy at leisure, perhaps sightsee independently, shop for souvenirs or simply find a cozy coffee shop to relax.
In the evening, make your way back to Edinburgh Castle to see the highlight of your trip: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Set in the esplanade of the castle, the annual event is a true Scottish spectacle where ‘military tattoos’ (marches and dances) take place amid grand pomp and ceremony, music and fireworks. Besides the British Armed Forces, more than 40 countries take part in the event, and nationalities from all over the world make up the crowds alongside you.
Your standard ticket offers unobstructed views of the esplanade, so take a seat and sit back to enjoy the show, watching star performers such as the Massed Pipes and Drums, Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines and the Lonely Piper. The full evening performances typically last 1.5 hours, and culminate in a dazzling fireworks display, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Food and drink stands can be found on site; just note that any items are at your own expense.
Overnight: 3-star Holiday Inn Express, Motel One or Premier Inn in central Edinburgh
Day 3: Edinburgh (B)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and then check out of your hotel in the late morning, finishing your 2-night experience in the city.