What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

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

How long does this tour take?

This tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion

Q: Where does this tour start?

This tour starts at: Our Guide will display a sign with Your Shore time. Your Joining Instructions are dependant on the port that you will be arriving at. Please see below. In the highly unlikely event you are unable to locate your Guide / Driver - please call our Emergency Support Number 00 44 77979 1386.

★★★★☆ 4.0

8 hours

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Overview

The visiting schedule may vary depending on the Edinburgh port where your ship docks; however, all key aspects of the tour are included regardless of the docking or tendering port.

After meeting your official guide, board an air-conditioned coach and begin with a Drive-By visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia ( Drive-By). Continue to Edinburgh Castle for stunning views and history (entry optional).

Next, visit the Palace of Holyrood House and enjoy a guided stroll along the iconic Royal Mile, passing St Giles Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament, and historic alleys. Time is included for refreshments and photos.

Your guide will provide commentary throughout. Ample breaks are included, and if the ship’s time in port is shortened, visits will be adjusted to ensure on-time return—typically one hour before sailing.

Gallery

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 1

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 2

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 3

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 4

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 5

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 6

Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion — photo 7

What's Included

✓ Included

Drive by the Royal Yacht Britannia
Guided full day Edinburgh highlights shore excursion
Visit to the Scottish Parliament building
Visit to Edinburgh Castle (optional Entry- Entry Ticket not Included))
Visit to St Giles Cathedral
Stroll along the Royal Mile
Visit to the Palace of Holyrood house
Services of a licensed qualified Guide

✗ Not Included

Food and drinks

Itinerary

Stop 1

The Royal Yacht Britannia served the British Royal Family for over 44 years, sailing more than a million nautical miles across the globe. Commissioned in 1954, this majestic vessel hosted state visits, royal honeymoons, and official receptions. Now permanently berthed in Edinburgh, Scotland, Britannia offers visitors a glimpse into royal life at sea with its elegantly preserved rooms and historic charm. A symbol of tradition and diplomacy, it remains one of the most treasured pieces of maritime history.

Stop 2

Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, dominates the skyline of Scotland’s capital. With origins dating back to the Iron Age, it has witnessed centuries of history, including royal births, battles, and sieges. The castle houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, used in coronations. Visitors explore ancient halls, the National War Museum, and St. Margaret’s Chapel—the city’s oldest building. A symbol of Scottish heritage, Edinburgh Castle remains one of the nation’s most iconic and visited landmarks.

Stop 3

The Palace of Holyrood House, at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, is the official residence of the King in Scotland. Rich in royal history, it was once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, and has been the setting for many dramatic events. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the beautiful gardens. The palace remains a working royal residence and offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s past and present monarchy.

Stop 4

The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most famous street, stretching one mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House. This historic cobbled road forms the heart of the city's Old Town and is lined with charming shops, traditional pubs, and historic landmarks. It offers a vibrant mix of Scottish culture, architecture, and street performances. Visitors can explore hidden closes (alleys), St Giles Cathedral, and the Scottish Parliament, making the Royal Mile a must-see destination rich in history and character.

Meeting & End Point

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Meeting Point

Our Guide will display a sign with Your Shore time. Your Joining Instructions are dependant on the port that you will be arriving at. Please see below. In the highly unlikely event you are unable to locate your Guide / Driver - please call our Emergency Support Number 00 44 77979 1386

🏁

End Point

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Good to Know

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
After disembarkation, You will be tendered ashore, and at your dis-embarkation point, your guide will be waiting, displaying a sign with ‘YOUR SHORE TIME’.