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City of Edinburgh Shore Excursion

2 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | South Queensferry, Scotland

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8 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation

Overview

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.

What's Included

  • Edinburgh Castle Ticket
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • 2 Hour Old Town Walking Tour
  • Lunch
  • These are entirely optional but if you would like to tip, we would recommend 15-20% of your excursion costs.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

New Town (Pass 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.
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Palace of Holyroodhouse (Pass 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.
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Old Town

*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.
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2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Edinburgh Old Town

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
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Edinburgh Castle

*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.
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2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not suitable for children under 12yrs
  • Remaining time is allocated for travel between stops
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the City of Edinburgh Shore Excursion?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-5567703P9

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Reviews

5.00
2 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Edinburgh Castle Ticket
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • 2 Hour Old Town Walking Tour
  • Local Driver-Guide
  • Lunch
  • These are entirely optional but if you would like to tip, we would recommend 15-20% of your excursion costs.

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Not suitable for children under 12yrs
  • Remaining time is allocated for travel between stops
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free Cancellation

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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