Scotland’s capital hosts you today when you explore its ‘royal’ side on your favourite ‘Your Choice’ experience.There’s plenty of time this afternoon to explore the city independently before we gather this evening for a WelcomeEvent of Scottish proportions.Steeped in a captivating blend of history that intertwines the Highland clans with centuries-old ties to the Britishmonarchy, Edinburgh is a highlight of any visit to Scotland. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated bythe iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has served as a strategic stronghold for centuries. Beyond its imposingfortifications, Edinburgh was a hub of political intrigue, and a meeting place where clan leaders negotiated,celebrated, and occasionally clashed. Its proximity to the Highlands made it a natural focal point for thesegatherings, underscoring the city’s pivotal role in Scottish clan culture. In addition to its Highland clan dynamics,Edinburgh boasts deep connections to the British monarchy. Holyrood Palace, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and theannual Edinburgh Military Tattoo, exemplify the city’s royal heritage, steeped in centuries-old traditions of pageantryand military prowess.Today, visitors to the city are encouraged to explore its royal residences and resting places, museums and galleries,and witness firsthand the traditions that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh stands as a living testament toScotland’s past, where the legacies of Highland clans and the British monarchy converge in a historically nuanced yetenduring relationship.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: The Royal Mile and Edinburgh CastleScotland’s most famous mile awaits us this morning, promising a fascinating journey as our guide shares quirky talesand local gems. Immerse yourself in the rich Scottish history woven into the medieval labyrinth of cobblestonealleyways and tenements. Along the Royal Mile, discover the captivating St Giles’ Cathedral, the historical ParliamentSquare, and the storied John Knox House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with secrets andunforgettable stories, offering an experience you won’t want to miss.At the pinnacle of the Royal Mile, follow in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers and prisoners as you explore thehistorical Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence is brimming with fascinating stories from its past. Perchedhigh on a volcanic rock, the castle had a strategic advantage over invaders and has witnessed many sieges, oftenswitching hands between Britain and Scotland. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle holds manyhistorical treasures, including the Honours of Scotland – the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Created during the reignsof James IV and James V, these jewels were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543.During World War II, the Crown of Scotland was cleverly hidden in a medieval latrine closet in David’s Tower! Ouraudio tour of the castle is stacked with fascinating facts about this stoic fortress, making it both factual andenjoyable.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Royal Mile and the Palace of HolyroodOur morning starts with a visit to Edinburgh’s royal residence. Holyrood Palace has been linked with Scotland’s royalhistory for centuries. Mary, Queen of Scots, resided there from 1561 to 1567, during a turbulent period marked bypolitical intrigue. The palace was also home to King James VI of Scotland, who later became James I of England,whose unification of the two nations led to the end of the clans. In more recent times, Queen Elizabeth II usedHolyrood Palace for official engagements and ceremonies during her annual ‘Holyrood Week’, where she hostedgarden parties and met with Scottish dignitaries. The palace’s opulent decor is complemented by its art collection,featuring pieces from the Royal Collection, and its well-preserved historical apartments, which offer a fascinatingglimpse into the lives of Scotland’s royalty.From Holyrood House, Scotland’s most famous Royal Mile promises a fascinating journey as our guide shares quirkytales and local gems. Immerse yourself in the rich Scottish history woven into the medieval labyrinth of cobblestonealleyways and tenements. Along the Royal Mile, discover the captivating St Giles Cathedral, the historical ParliamentSquare, and the storied John Knox House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with secrets andunforgettable stories, offering an experience you won’t want to miss.Option 3 – Morning experience: The Royal Yacht BritanniaA Royal residence for over 40 years, the Britannia enchants us with an audio tour of her decks, apartments, bridgeand engine room. Launched on 16 April 1953 from the John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland, theRoyal Yacht Britannia served the royal family for over 44 years. It sailed more than a million nautical miles, becomingone of the world’s most famous ships. To Queen Elizabeth II, Britannia was the ideal royal residence for state visits,official receptions, royal honeymoons, and family holidays. For Great Britain, it was a symbol of the Commonwealthand a proud ambassador, generating billions in trade deals. For the royal family and its 220 dedicated crewmembers, Britannia was a cherished home. When she was decommissioned in 1997, it marked the end of a longtradition of British royal yachts dating back to 1660 and the reign of Charles II.Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh (or similar)Meals: Breakfast, Welcome Event canapés