Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
When your cruise ship arrives in Edinburgh, get to know Scotland’s capital on this full-day shore excursion. Board a comfortable coach which takes you to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of the British monarchy. Then enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh before stopping to explore medieval Edinburgh Castle, once residence to Scotland’s kings and queens. Use your free time for lunch (own expense) and to explore the famous Royal Mile and see the Palace of Holyroodhouse the official residence of the British Royal Family in Scotland.
Available options
Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia
Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Knowledgeable driver-guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit the former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now situated in Leith. She was in service from 1954 until 1997
2
Stop 2
Your Edinburgh Shore Excursion will then travel to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British Royal Family in Scotland, for a photo stop. This baroque palace is full of history and is perhaps best known as the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and was the setting for many dramatic episodes during her short and turbulent reign.
3
Stop 3
We will travel to the Royal Mile to visit historic Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s most iconic castle and named the UK’s best heritage attraction in 2014. Spend time touring the castle, learn all about its history and even see the famous Stone of Destiny; the traditional crowning seat of the ancient Scottish monarchs.
What's not included
No food and drink is included
Restroom on board
WiFi on board
Attraction Tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
32 reviews
5★
15
4★
6
3★
3
2★
1
1★
7
Tripadvisor
4.3
9 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note we pick up from the following cruise ships (2025): 26/04/2025 Regal Princess, 06/05/2025 Regal Princess, 10/05/2025 Norwegian Star, 18/05/2025 Regal Princess, 18/05/2025 Costa Favolosa, 30/05/2025 Regal Princess, 10/06/2025 Star Legend, 11/06/2025 Regal Princess, 15/06/2025 Sky Princess, 23/06/2025 Regal Princess, 01/07/2025 Emerald Princess, 05/07/2025 Regal Princess, 15/07/2025 Emerald Princess, 17/07/2025 Regal Princess, 20/07/2025 Norwegian Dawn, 20/07/2025 Star Legend, 29/07/2025 Regal Princess, 03/08/2025 Regal Princess, 05/08/2025 Star Legend, 10/08/2025 Emerald Princess, 15/08/2025 Regal Princess, 21/08/2025 Niew Statendam, 22/08/2025 Regal Princess, 26/08/2025 Marina, 31/08/2025 Norwegian Dawn, 02/09/2025 Regal Princess, 06/09/2025 Regal Princess, 25/09/2025 Regal Princess, 06/10/2025 Regal Princess
Please note we pick up from the following cruise ships (2026): 25/04/2026 Majestic Princess, 07/05/2026 Majestic Princess, 19/05/2026 Majestic Princess, 31/05/2026 Majestic Princess, 12/06/2026 Majestic Princess, 18/07/2026 Majestic Princess, 30/07/2026 Majestic Princess, 23/08/2026 Majestic Princess, 04/09/2026 Majestic Princess, 16/08/2026 Majestic Princess
This tour will depart from the port at 9:30 AM. Make sure to arrive on shore at least 15 minutes prior to departure to allow sufficient time for check-in.
Please note: The attractions for this tour must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment. We will send you a pre-booking template before your tour departs.
About South Queensferry
South Queensferry is a picturesque coastal town in Scotland, known for its stunning views of the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming town offers a mix of historical landmarks, scenic walks, and excellent dining options, making it a perfect getaway from the bustling city of Edinburgh.
Top Attractions
Forth Bridge
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge is an iconic cantilever railway bridge that offers stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's engineering history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to view, tours available for a fee
Queensferry History Museum
This small museum offers a fascinating look into the history of South Queensferry, from its early days as a ferry crossing point to its modern-day charm.
Museum
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Hawes Promenade
A scenic waterfront promenade offering beautiful views of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Nature
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat and offal
Cullen Skink
A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, a classic Scottish comfort food.
Soup
Contains fish
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Cycling
Water sports
Picnicking
Strolling along the promenade
Whisky tasting
Visiting museums
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit South Queensferry for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The town is vibrant with events and festivals.
12°C to 20°C
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
South Queensferry is a safe and welcoming town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 20 miles (32 km)
By train
Dalmeny Station
By bus
Edinburgh Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in South Queensferry. They are reliable and frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Hawes
Day trips
Edinburgh
12 miles (19 km) • Half day to full day
Scotland's capital city offers a wealth of historical sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant city life.
St. Andrews
35 miles (56 km) • Full day
A historic town known for its university, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.
Festivals
Queensferry Fete • June
Hogmanay • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit the Forth Bridge at sunrise or sunset for the best photographic opportunities.
- Try local seafood dishes at the waterfront restaurants for an authentic taste of South Queensferry.
- Explore the town's history by visiting the Queensferry History Museum and local landmarks.
- Take a leisurely stroll along Hawes Promenade for stunning views of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth.
- Check out local markets and festivals for a taste of the town's vibrant community spirit.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
