City of Edinburgh Shore Excursion

5.0 (6 reviews) 8 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

6 reviews

5.0

Edinburgh Castle from The Grassmarket — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Edinburgh Castle — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the best of Scotland’s capital on a semi-private tour designed for cruise guests who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing loop. With small group sizes, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and immersive experience led by a local guide who knows how to bring Edinburgh’s layered history to life.

Your day combines a panoramic drive through the Georgian elegance of the New Town with a guided walking tour of the Old Town, where cobbled closes and historic landmarks reveal the city’s medieval past. From the Royal Mile to Victoria Street and the Vennel Steps, your guide shares fascinating stories that make the streets come alive.

With entrance to Edinburgh Castle included, you’ll cap off the day with a self-guided visit to Scotland’s most iconic stronghold, complete with sweeping city views. This carefully curated itinerary offers the perfect balance of storytelling, scenery, and independence—far from the crowds of larger tours.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Historical Tours Ports of Call Tours Likely to Sell Out Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration: 8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 14 people
People per booking: 1–14
Guide: English
Operated by: Shore Excursion Scotland

Ages: Adults (12–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Edinburgh Castle Ticket
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: Local Driver-Guide
Included: 2 Hour Old Town Walking Tour

Not included

Not included: Gratuities: These are entirely optional but if you would like to tip, we would recommend 15-20% of your excursion costs.
Not included: Lunch

Itinerary

New Town

Passing by

Your day ashore in Edinburgh begins with a scenic drive through part of the city’s elegant New Town. Renowned for its Georgian architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status, the New Town offers a striking contrast to the medieval charm of the Old Town. Here, you’ll see grand townhouses, sweeping crescents, and stately squares, reflecting 18th-century sophistication and modern urban planning.
Palace of Holyroodhouse

Passing by

You'll be driven to Holyrood Palace—the official Scottish residence of the King—where your walking tour guide will be waiting to lead you on an immersive half-day journey through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Old Town

2 hours

*Old Town Walking Tour - Cost Included*

This does require a moderate level of physical ability to fully enjoy the experience.

We recommend comfortable shoes and a spirit for adventure! While the terrain can be uneven, the charm of the Old Town is well worth exploring.

With your expert guide, you’ll stroll through highlights of the Old Town, including the historic Royal Mile, the colourful charm of Victoria Street (a must-see for Harry Potter fans), the lively Grassmarket, and the hidden Vennel Steps. Along the way, your guide will bring the city’s dramatic stories to life, from medieval trade routes to infamous historical figures. The two hour walking tour fee is included, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s captivating atmosphere.
Edinburgh Old Town

one hour Admission included

LUNCH

We recommend The Redcoat Cafe inside Edinburgh Castle for lunch. This will allow you to make the most of your time.

Your walking guide will escort you to the castle entrance
Edinburgh Castle

2 hours Admission included

*Entrance Included*

You’ll be escorted to the gate for a self-guided tour of this iconic fortress. Explore the Great Hall, see the famous Stone of Destiny, and enjoy unbeatable views stretching across the city—a fitting finale to your unforgettable day in ‘Auld Reekie.’

After your castle visit, reconnect with your driver for a comfortable return to the cruise port, taking home the magic and memories of Edinburgh’s timeless contrasts.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The driver-guide will meet you at the end of the tender dock with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the entrance gate to the port with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the entrance of the cruise terminal with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the end of the tender dock with branded signage.

End point

The driver-guide will meet you at the end of the tender dock with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the entrance gate to the port with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the entrance of the cruise terminal with branded signage.
The driver-guide will meet you at the end of the tender dock with branded signage.

Using your ticket

Your walking tour guide will have your Edinburgh Castle entry tickets

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.