Edinburgh for Hogmanay (NYE) | Start Edinburgh | 2025/2026
Edinburgh for Hogmanay (NYE) | Start Edinburgh | 2025/2026
Edinburgh for Hogmanay (NYE) | Start Edinburgh | 2025/2026
5 Days Starting and ending in Edinburgh, Scotland
Visiting: Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WWHGEM20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience the magic of Edinburgh's Hogmanay with this unforgettable New Year's Eve tour. Begin your adventure in the historic city of Edinburgh, where you'll be swept away by the vibrant atmosphere and rich history. Join the torch-lit procession and witness the spectacular burning of a Viking ship on Carlton Hill. Over the next few days, explore iconic sites like Prince's Street, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle. As New Year's Eve approaches, immerse yourself in the festivities with live music, fireworks, and an included ticket to the city's renowned celebrations. Enjoy ice-skating, carnival rides, and perhaps an optional whiskey tasting. As the new year dawns, take a leisurely stroll to Arthur's Seat for breathtaking views or indulge in a traditional Scottish dinner with bagpipes. Conclude your journey with cherished memories of one of the world's most famous New Year celebrations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: A&O Edinburgh (or similar)
When we join forces in Edinburgh today our good spirits will be flowing. Home to William Wallace, this city is all about historical cool. We'll be welcomed by an orientation of the city, guiding us past kilt-clad locals & on to castles down cobbled lanes. No doubt the capital of the land of haggis and whisky will impress. Next up, the celebrations kick off with fire torches and a procession of the oh so keen marching down the street, so grab one and join in the party! Look up and you'll see a viking ship burning on Carlton Hill and with music, street performers, and a drink or two, it's a night to remember.
Day 2: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: A&O Edinburgh (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Now remember, unlike parties going on in the rest of the world, this one goes for 4 whole days... so don't peak too early! Why not start today with a stroll down Prince’s Street & the Royal Mile? We'll also have a chance to visit Edinburgh’s famous castle before we continue celebrations tonight.
Day 3: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: A&O Edinburgh (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Welcome to New Year's Eve, Scottish style! We're talking thousands of people from all across the world making mayhem on the streets, dancing under fireworks & soaking up live music aplenty. Take a late start to the day before enjoying some good food and winter city magic before the party begins. Your included ticket to the festivities is exactly what you need to start the night off on the right foot. Ice-skating, carnival rides, and dancing anyone? We say yes.
Day 4: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: A&O Edinburgh (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Though the parties will still be kicking on across the city, this day is yours to ring in the new year as you see fit. A late breakfast, a city stroll and a spot of shopping might be all your danced out feet can muster. If you're not tired out, then channel your Scotsman and head for a stroll to Arthurs Seat for the city's best views. Ahh Edinburgh, we're in love. Tonight, why not join the group for dinner and a show and hear bagpipers do their thing over some delicious local eats.
Day 5: End Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
There you have it folks - the world famous Hogmanay! Never again will you have to read a "Top 10 places to do New Year" in a fit of jealousy. Pack your bags and say a farewell to your trip buddies.
What's Included
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Dining
4 Breakfasts are included during the tour.
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Included Experience
Your included ticket to the festivities is exactly what you need to start the night off on the right foot. Enjoy ice-skating, carnival rides, and dancing.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional Whiskey Tastes & Tales experience is not included.
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Meals
Meals other than the 4 included breakfasts are not provided.
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Transport
Transport to and from Edinburgh is not included.
Dining Summary
- 4 Breakfast (B)
Culture
- Edinburgh: From Prince's Street to the Royal Mile, we'll get to grips with Edinburgh with our Trip Manager to answer all our questions.
Included Experience
- Edinburgh: From Prince's Street to the Royal Mile, we'll get to grips with Edinburgh with our Trip Manager to answer all our questions.
- Edinburgh: Your included ticket to the festivities is exactly what you need to start the night off on the right foot. Ice-skating, carnival rides, and dancing anyone? We say yes.
Accommodation
Stay at the A&O Edinburgh (or similar), offering comfortable lodging in the heart of the city, perfect for exploring the historic and cultural sights of Edinburgh during the Hogmanay celebrations.
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities are included during the New Year's Eve celebration in Edinburgh?
During the New Year's Eve celebration in Edinburgh, you can expect to join thousands of people from around the world for street festivities, dancing under fireworks, and enjoying live music. The event includes ice-skating, carnival rides, and an optional Whiskey Tastes & Tales experience.
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What can I do on the first day of the tour in Edinburgh?
On the first day in Edinburgh, you'll be welcomed with an orientation of the city, exploring historical sites and witnessing a fire torch procession. The evening includes a celebration with music, street performers, and a burning Viking ship on Carlton Hill.
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How is the New Year's Day spent during the tour?
On New Year's Day, you have the freedom to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. You might choose to enjoy a late breakfast, take a city stroll, go shopping, or hike to Arthur's Seat for stunning views. In the evening, you can join the group for dinner and a show featuring bagpipers.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The accommodation during the tour is at A&O Edinburgh or a similar establishment, providing a comfortable stay throughout your time in the city.
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What is the significance of the Hogmanay celebration in Edinburgh?
Hogmanay in Edinburgh is a world-famous New Year's celebration known for its vibrant street parties, cultural events, and unique traditions, making it a must-experience event for those looking to celebrate the New Year in a memorable way.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 30, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions