Dublin & Edinburgh Explorer
History and culture in two capital cities
What's better: Irish or Scottish whisky? Taste for yourself in two cities known for strong spirits, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. From cool Dublin to stately Edinburgh, experience the best of two capital cities in this 6 or 8-night vacation! Hang with students at Trinity College, then walk the historic Royal Mile and pick up a tartan souvenir.
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Roundtrip airport transfers in Dublin and Edinburgh
- 3 nights in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Dublin Hop-On/Hop-Off Pass (2-Day)
- One-way, economy class airfare from Dublin (DUB) to Edinburgh (EDI)
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel or similar
- Royal Edinburgh Tour
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland’s official residence of The Queen.
- Taste haggis in Edinburgh and Irish stew in Dublin, and don't forget a beer to wash it all down.
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Spend a night out on the town in Dublin's lively Temple Bar!
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See why Edinburgh is an art lover's town at the Scottish National Gallery.
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Take a tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral, one of Dublin's oldest medieval cathedrals.
Mythical castles, medieval cathedrals, jovial pubs...experience the best of Ireland and Scotland in six nights!
Your journey begins in the emerald city of Dublin, a city where classic literature meets festive pubs. Roam the cobblestone streets of James Joyce, then discover where Ireland gained its independence. Enjoy discounts on attractions and a free walking tour with an included 2-day Hop-On/Hop-Off pass.
Fly to Edinburgh and jump right into this proud capital city nicknamed the "Athens of the North." Stroll its streets marked by imposing Georgian architecture as the sound of bagpipes fill the air. Enjoy 48-hour unlimited access to the city's top attractions including Edinburgh Castle, The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and The Royal Yacht Brittania.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Roundtrip airport transfers in Dublin and Edinburgh
- 3 nights in Dublin at the Ashling Hotel or similar
- Dublin Hop-On/Hop-Off Pass (2-Day)
- One-way, economy class airfare from Dublin (DUB) to Edinburgh (EDI)
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel or similar
- Royal Edinburgh Tour
- Breakfast daily
-
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland’s official residence of The Queen.
- Taste haggis in Edinburgh and Irish stew in Dublin, and don't forget a beer to wash it all down.
-
Spend a night out on the town in Dublin's lively Temple Bar!
-
See why Edinburgh is an art lover's town at the Scottish National Gallery.
-
Take a tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral, one of Dublin's oldest medieval cathedrals.
Mythical castles, medieval cathedrals, jovial pubs...experience the best of Ireland and Scotland in six nights!
Your journey begins in the emerald city of Dublin, a city where classic literature meets festive pubs. Roam the cobblestone streets of James Joyce, then discover where Ireland gained its independence. Enjoy discounts on attractions and a free walking tour with an included 2-day Hop-On/Hop-Off pass.
Fly to Edinburgh and jump right into this proud capital city nicknamed the "Athens of the North." Stroll its streets marked by imposing Georgian architecture as the sound of bagpipes fill the air. Enjoy 48-hour unlimited access to the city's top attractions including Edinburgh Castle, The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and The Royal Yacht Brittania.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive in Dublin airport and enjoy a transfer to your first accommodation! Get acquainted with the city by using your hop-on/hop-off bus pass and watch the beauty of Dublin unfold right before your eyes.
At night, head to Dublin's oldest pub The Brazen Head, dating back to 1198. Have a pint and say cheers with the locals!
Transfer to Dublin hotel
The Alex was the third of O'Callaghan Hotel Group's Dublin hotels on this corner of Merrion Square. This thoughtfully designed contemporary hotel welcomes you into its spacious lobby where the team will give you a great welcome, excellent service and will be more than happy to show you everything on our doorstep.
The Alex is close to Dublin city's Georgian squares where business and culture meet as neighbors. Grafton Street, the flagship location for many shops, is just a minutes' walk from the hotel. For the adventurous visitor, there is a Dublin Bike station on Merrion Square and you can join the other enthusiastic cyclists in Dublin traveling from one point of interest to another.
Enjoy picturesque Dublin mountain and River Liffey views
during your relaxing stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin Custom House. Located
just 10 minutes from the city center, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect
base for exploring Ireland's capital city! Start your days off with a stroll
alongside the river, a workout in the fully equipped fitness center, or an
energizing breakfast from the on-site restaurant. Once you’re ready to explore
the city, train and bus stops are just blocks away! If you’re in the mood to
shop, the luck of the Irish is already with you, because the shopping district
is just a short five minute walk away.
After an exciting day of sightseeing in Dublin, unwind in a
contemporary, spacious room that will make you feel right at home. Large,
comfortable beds and mini-refrigerators will create a relaxing retreat, while
40-inch HDTVs and complimentary Wi-Fi will keep you up to date. If work finds
you when you are away, be productive in this hotel’s 24-hour business center,
where you can find complimentary printing services, fax machines, photo copy
machines, and, of course, Wi-Fi. When
you work up an appetite, be sure to dine at Oly’s Bar & Restaurant, which
serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and while you’re there, grab a pint of
beer at the bar. Don’t worry about finding something the kids might like –
there is a special kid’s menu just for them! And if you forget something, run
out of toothpaste, or you just crave a midnight snack, not to worry; the 24-hour
Pavilion Pantry convenience store will be there to save you.
Jurys Inn Christchurch Hotel Dublin is only a short walk from the best of Dublin. Enjoy close proximity to Temple Bar, Grafton Street, and more. Stay local and explore the offerings of Dublin such as the National Museum of Ireland, or adventure further out to take in the vibrant culture of the cities around Dublin. The hotel is close to public transit as well, which will make your day trips to Belfast, Galway, and Cork easier than ever.
Offering 182 brightly lit guestrooms, the hotel is well-equipped to accommodate your travel needs whether you are traveling alone or in a group. Wheelchair accessible guestrooms are available on request for guests with special mobility needs. Start your day with breakfast in the hotel's restaurant or unwind at the end of the day with a cocktail from the richly refurbished bar or sample the traditional Irish cuisine for dinner.
Day 2. Dublin
Continue using your hop-on/hop-off pass! Don't miss the Chester Beatty Library in the grounds of the Dublin Castle, where you'll see the rare books collection of mining engineer Sir Alfred Chester Beatty.
In the evening head to Grafton Street, home to Dublin's many restaurants and bars. Whether you're craving Indian, Thai or French, this city's food scene has it all!
Dublin Big Bus Premium Hop-on/Hop-off - 48-hour
Visit Ireland’s capital and discover the city from the top of an open-top double-decker bus. Let City Sightseeing entertain, inform and highlight all the things to do and see in Dublin to help you make the most of your stay. The 48-hour ticket is the perfect hassle-free way to get around town and visit all of Dublin’s major sights.
Includes:
- Unlimited travel ticket for 48 hours
- Discounts on attractions throughout the city
- Free walking tour
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Covered buses for inclement weather
- Dublin Night Tour
Day 3. Dublin
Explore Trinity College, one of the most prestigious universities in the world and a masterpiece of Georgian architecture. The buildings, dating back centuries, are each beautifully laid out on a cobbled or grassy square.
Don't miss the Old Library, a visually stunning structure and home of the Book of Kells, widely regarded as Ireland's finest national treasure.
At night see the illuminated city along the River Liffey, making sure to snap photos along the way.
Trinity College Library • Dublin, Ireland
Day 4. Dublin - Edinburgh
Enjoy a full Irish breakfast at your hotel then head to the airport because you're flying to Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, art and culture!
Once settled, activate your Royal Edinburgh pass and see a few of the city's top sights from the comfort of your bus. Spend the evening in Leith, a historic port boasting some of the best food and drinks in the city.
Transfer to airport
Fly from Dublin (DUB) to Edinburgh (EDI)!
Relax and unwind at The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel, nestled
right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. After a busy day of sightseeing in
the bustling city, you will find yourself only steps away from the comfort and
elegance that this hotel provides. Kick off your shoes and climb into your large,
comfortable bed, or stay up planning your next day, sitting in cozy armchairs
and using the hotel’s complimentary Wi-Fi. All 156 guestrooms are furnished to
the highest standard, featuring triple-glazed windows and boasting marble
bathrooms, creating a quiet, peaceful sanctuary in the middle of center city.
When it’s time to eat, indulge in a delicious, classically
Scottish meal at Acanthus, The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel’s award-winning
restaurant that creates a perfect environment, as it sits just across from
Scottish Parliament and overlooks Arthur’s Seat. By selecting only the finest,
freshest ingredients that are locally sourced where possible, Acanthus is one
of the most exciting new restaurants in Edinburgh. There, you will be treated
to a sensational experience of specialty cocktails, delicious teas, and a
scrumptious breakfast, lunch, or dinner that captures the taste of Scotland.
Pamper yourself at the hotel’s Leisure Club and Spa, which offers
a perfect retreat from the liveliness of Scotland’s capital city. Find serenity in a variety of luxurious spa
treatments, take a swim in the 45-foot headed swimming pool, or work out all of
your stresses in the state of the art Technogym.
Sitting in a wonderful city-center location, the castle-like Principal Edinburgh George Street is a chic accommodation for anyone looking to enjoy the sights of Edinburgh. With Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and Princes Street Gardens all nearby, those looking for a royal feeling will fit right in here. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, conference and meeting rooms, a gym, an on-site restaurant, and tickets and tours assistance for guests.
Rooms are elegant and feature a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a safe, coffee and tea making facilities, complimentary bottled water, ironing facilities upon request, hypoallergenic bedding upon request, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer, complimentary toiletries, and bathrobes. With an event room and plenty of shopping, cuisine, and sight-seeing available in the area, it makes any stay at Principal Edinburgh George Street entertaining.
Embark on a sojourn through the richness of New Town with a stay at Kimpton Charlotte Square. Comprised of seven inter-connecting Georgian townhouses which have just undergone a multi-million restoration, the hotel is the ideal place to begin your Scotland discovery. Equipped with an attentive staff and signature amenities such as the red bedside telephone, tuck box, and vintage post box, Principal is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable stay.
Enjoy views of one of Edinburgh's most beautiful private garden squares or slip down to the glass-roofed internal courtyard where you can indulge in lush surrounding while sampling the gastronomy of BABA's innovative menu. Each of the attentively furnished rooms provide the comfort of home with the added bonus of Scottish luxury and hospitality.
Experience true luxury at this stylish hotel nestled right on the Royal Mile. Dating back to the early 1900s, this historic Victorian building is an aesthetic icon of the city. Take advantage of its unique North Bridge location, which links Edinburgh's Old and New Town together. Shop the day away, treat yourself to a tasty bite at a cafe, walk over to Edinburgh Castle, or discover the city's vibrant nightlife.
After an exciting day, stroll back to the hotel and take a nap on your large, comfortable bed. Freshen up in the luxurious bathroom, use the hotel's free WiFi to share photos with family and friends back home, and catch up on some TV. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at its elegant Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed atmosphere that boasts glamorous decor and warm vibes. Looking for something a bit less formal? Head to the trendy on-site Nineteen Hundred Bar & Lounge and sip on a cocktail while you sample small plates. If both of these options sound like too much work, go ahead and stay cozy in bed. Room service will be there for you 24/7.
Stay in a fine 3-star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center’s popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi is available in the 169 stylish guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Scott's on Princes Street is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; as well as for light snacks and drinks. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Edinburgh castle from the hotel. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus and only 7 minutes walking distance from Waverley train station.
The Edinburgh Princes Street hotel is above the Princes Street shops near Edinburgh Waverley Station, with direct rail services to UK cities. Edinburgh bus station is 500 meters away, and the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus stops 150 meters from the hotel. From Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus-stop follow Waverley Bridge, walk up towards the Scott Monument on your left. Continue over the crossing towards the monument. The hotel is opposite you, between Jenner’s department store and Marks & Spencer.Experience the true history, beauty, and culture of Edinburgh at the centrally positioned Jurys Inn. Located just off the famous Royal Mile, you'll be right in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town. In just steps, find yourself at Holyrood Park, Princes Street Gardens, or the Edinburgh Castle! Head back to the hotel and recharge at the all-day Costa Coffee Bar, perfect for curling up and relaxing with a good book.
Unwind with a drink at the hotel's stylish on-site bar, then head to the contemporary restaurant and indulge in a mouthwatering meal. After an exciting day, close the door to your room and escape to a state of peace and tranquility. You'll completely forget that a bustling city exists right outside. Relax in your large soft bed, catch up on your favorite TV shows, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure. If you happen to crave a midnight snack, don't worry - room service will be at your door in just minutes.
Enjoy the lively and modern decour during your stay at the Grassmarket Hotel. Rooms come equipped with TVs, iPod docks, wall-sized magnetic maps, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms featuring rainfall showers. This newly renovated hotel sitting comfortable within distance of Waverley Train Station and the Royal Mile.
Pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for excellent shopping are all within walking distance of your hotel, as well as all of the shops of Princes Street. Old Town exploration and history make the area unique, just like its lodgings.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.
Relax in your large, comfortable bed at the charming Murrayfield Hotel. This stylish, quaint hotel will serve as a perfect home base, as it is located right on the border of the Edinburgh City Centre. Start your day with a walk to the national Murrayfield Stadium, stroll around Roseburn Park, or uncover your wild side at the Edinburgh Zoo. For more fun, hop on a local train or hail a cab and explore the historic Edinburgh City Centre. In just minutes, you'll be right in the middle of the breathtaking architecture of Edinburgh's New Town and Old Town.
Yes, Edinburgh is filled with amazing restaurants, but make sure to have at least one meal at The Bothy, Murrayfield's on-site restaurant and drinkery! Whether its a pleasant breakfast, weekend brunch, or a romantic candlelit dinner, this stylish yet traditional Scottish restaurant will serve you up an experience that will leave you wanting more. Indulge in homemade Scottish favorites, bistro bites, and craft cocktails while you relax in a comfortable, homey, yet trendy atmosphere. Look out for events like quiz night, flight night, and whiskey tasting night that are hosted at The Bothy.
Stay at the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace for a quiet, modern hotel experience! Rooms include free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Grab a snack at the Terrace Brasserie, or work out in the modern Techno gym. You’ll be close to landmarks like Calton Hill and Waterloo Place, and about 7 miles from Edinburgh Airport.
Day 5. Edinburgh
Discover the famous Edinburgh Castle, a 12th-century fortress that makes an indelible mark on the skyline. Imagine yourself as part of a fairtytale as you wander the grounds of this former royal residence. You'll have fast-track access to the castle, giving you ample time to explore all of its fascinating nooks and crannies.
In the evening, venture to one of Edinburgh's theaters to experience a play, musical or performance. This is an art-lover's town!
Royal Edinburgh Ticket
This unique value-added tour ticket is all you need to explore and experience the royal splendors of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city! You’ll receive 48-hour unlimited access to four city tours, as well as fast-track admission to Edinburgh Castle (the city’s most famous attraction), The Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Queen’s official residence in Scotland) and The Royal Yacht Brittania (The Queen’s floating Royal residence).
Tours Included with Your Ticket:
The Edinburgh Tour – with a live English-speaking guide, and stops including Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland and Scottish Parliament.
City Sightseeing Tour – entertaining and informative commentary, along with a “Horrible Histories” commentary for kids. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland, Our Dynamic Earth and Calton Hill.
Majestic Tour - Enjoy an entertaining and informative commentary as you are guided through the history of Edinburgh’s people, places and sights along the route. Highlights include the Royal Yacht Britannia, Royal Botanic Garden, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town and Scottish Parliament.
Day 6. Edinburgh
Begin your day with a dose of art and history at the National Museum of Scotland, loved by locals and tourists alike. In addition to 20,000 artifacts, the museum's Victorian architecture is a visual treat, so bring your camera!
From fine art to street art, head to Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the city's main pedestrian thoroughfare. Lining the cobblestone streets are beautiful buildings, shops selling tartan, and quiet enclosures perfect for an afternoon respite.
Duck into a pub at night and enjoy a strong glass of Scottish whiskey.
The Royal Mile • Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 7. Depart Scotland
In accordance with your departure flight, make your way to Edinburgh airport (EDI).
Transfer to Edinburgh airport (EDI)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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