4.0(1 reviews)
Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace Shore Excursion
From$52.45
8 hours
Full description
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.
Included / Excluded
- 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
- Food and drinks
Itinerary
1
Pass by: 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.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
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.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NO
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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.
Duration: 45 minAdmission: NO
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.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NO
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- 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’.
Traveler reviews
4.01 review
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Walking in the heart of Edinburgh
The walk along the Royal Mile is really enjoyable, a great opportunity to discover the architecture of Edinburgh and breathe in the atmosphere of the city. The Castle is impressive and interesting, with a lot of story to tell, even if the audio guide is a bit too long and sometimes boring. I enjoyed the visit to Holyrood Palace even more: apart from the beauty of the interiors and gardens, the Historic Mood is truly fascinating and tells a more vivid side of Scottish royal life, with stories of kings and queens making the visit more engaging than the Castle. I recommend both stops, but if I had to choose, Holyrood Palace is the one that left me the best memory.
Meander03520659553Sep 20, 2025TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
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’.