Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia

Our one-day Edinburgh shore excursion takes you through Scotland’s historic capital, uncovering its rich royal and cultural heritage. Explore the iconic Royal Yacht Britannia, discover the stories of the Royal Mile, and visit the world-famous Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy a guided tour through the city centre, with a memorable drive-by of the magnificent Palace of Holyrood House.

Upon leaving the port, our Edinburgh shore excursion will head to the Royal Yacht Britannia (entrance – optional extra), the former royal yacht of the British monarchy. For those who book the optional extra, you’ll board the ship and explore where Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip used to spend their voyages. If you choose not to board the Britannia, you’ll have time to explore Ocean Terminal for a bit of shopping, or you could explore The Shore, a picturesque and historic area located in the heart of Old Leith, the historic port town that was merged into a suburb of Edinburgh City in 1920.

We’ll then continue into the heart of Edinburgh, where you’ll enjoy a tour of the city centre and historic Old Town, and have a scenic drive past the Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence of the British Monarch in Scotland since the 16th Century. It has played host to countless members of the Royal Family, and many official events and gatherings have been held here.

Your Edinburgh Shore Excursion will then travel up the Royal Mile to visit the stunning Edinburgh Castle (Entrance - Optional Extra). Scotland’s most iconic castle, which has stood proudly atop Castle Rock since the Iron Age.

Here, you'll have time for lunch and the option to explore Edinburgh Castle itself. If you choose to enter the castle, you’ll spend time wandering the halls, see the Half Moon Battery where they fire the One o’clock Gun, learn all about its centuries of history, and discover some of the famous treasures the castle houses, such as the Honours of Scotland and the Queen’s Embroideries.

If you choose not to enter the castle, you’ll have time to explore the Old Town, including Castlehill, the city’s oldest street, and discover some of the many atmospheric ‘closes’ or alleys running off the backbone of the Royal Mile or visit attractions such as St Giles Cathedral. There are many ‘free’ walking tours in the area that you can join for a more local insight into the history of Edinburgh; your guide may make a recommendation for you.

After this, sit back and relax, as we take some time to explore the beautifully designed Edinburgh New Town, featuring Georgian townhouses and Neoclassical architecture. This section of the city is marvelled at as an example of incredible modern planning and design. Your Edinburgh shore excursion will then journey back to your ship, taking in more of Edinburgh’s beautiful streets along the way. 

*Optional Extra