Set out on a captivating 8-hour journey through Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks with the Edinburgh Shore Coach Excursion. Enjoy the city’s rich history as you explore the Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile. With ample free time and an expert local guide, this tour promises an unforgettable cultural experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Edinburgh enthusiast, this excursion has a lot to offer. Discover what makes this city so special and uncover its hidden gems along the way.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 8-hour Edinburgh shore excursion covering major landmarks like Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, and Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Optional entry to Royal Yacht Britannia and free time at Edinburgh Castle.
- Guided tours of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Old Town.
- Photo stops at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Tour led by a licensed, qualified local guide with opportunities to view Edinburgh’s notable sights.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Edinburgh Shore Coach Excursion is priced at Kč 2,212 per person and lasts for 8 hours.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No payment is required to reserve a spot, as the tour offers a "reserve now & pay later" option.
The excursion departs from Edinburgh, with stops including the Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Edinburgh Old Town.
Optional guided tours and castle entry are available. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting from Edinburgh, the tour makes stops at several notable landmarks and sights. Guests can optionally visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, explore the Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile, admire the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and discover the charming Old Town. The itinerary provides ample free time for refreshments as well.
| Stops | Duration |
| — | — |
| Royal Yacht Britannia | Optional entry, approx. £19.50 |
| Edinburgh Castle | Photo stop, free time 100 minutes |
| Royal Mile | Guided tour, optional |
| Palace of Holyroodhouse | Photo stop, 40 minutes |
| Edinburgh Old Town | Guided tour, optional, 1 hour |
Tour Features
A local guide will meet and greet participants at the start of the tour. The tour features a licensed, qualified guide who’ll lead the group.
Key highlights include:
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Opportunities to view major sights in Edinburgh.
-
Optional entry to Edinburgh Castle and Royal Yacht Britannia.
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Guided tours of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Old Town available.
The tour provides an efficient way to see top attractions in Edinburgh. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking portions.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking portions of this tour, which provides an efficient way to see top attractions in Edinburgh.
However, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Important Information
Tickets for attractions are non-refundable and can’t be booked within 2 weeks of the tour date.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking tour. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Participants need to be able to walk for extended periods and navigate the uneven terrain of the Old Town.
Latecomers may miss the group and be unable to rejoin. Group sizes are limited, so early booking is advised.
Travellers should arrive at the designated meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure they don’t miss the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Departure
The guide will display a sign showing "Your Shore Time" to greet participants.
The tour departs from four different landing points:
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New Haven
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Queensferry
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Leith
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Rosyth
Travelers should check the tour availability and confirm the starting times for their preferred departure location.
Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking, and the experience may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Please note that tickets for attractions are non-refundable and can’t be booked within two weeks of the tour date.
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Exploring the Royal Yacht Britannia
Although an optional addition to the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the iconic Royal Yacht Britannia, the former floating royal residence.
The yacht offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the British royal family. Guests can wander through the lavish State Apartments, the Sun Lounge, and the engine room, learning about the yacht’s history and amenities.
With an audio tour available, visitors can discover the yacht’s fascinating past at their own pace. The entry fee is approximately £19.50, providing access to this unique historical attraction during the Edinburgh shore excursion.
Discovering Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
From the starting point in Edinburgh, the tour makes its way to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, offering visitors a chance to capture stunning photos of this historic landmark.
After the photo stop, guests are given 100 minutes of free time to explore the castle grounds at their own pace.
Visitors are given 100 minutes to freely explore the captivating grounds of the iconic Edinburgh Castle at their own leisure.
The next stop is the Royal Mile, where the guide provides an optional guided tour, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and culture of this renowned street.
The tour then proceeds to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where guests have 40 minutes to explore the palace and its surroundings.
Experiencing the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Old Town
After exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the lively Royal Mile, the tour continues to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Participants can capture stunning photos of the palace’s exterior during a 40-minute stop.
Next, the guide leads an optional walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, providing insights into the area’s rich history and architecture.
This 1-hour tour allows visitors to enjoy the charming medieval streets and alleys.
The tour then offers a 1.5-hour break for refreshments, allowing participants to explore the city’s vibrant cafes and pubs at their own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there will be opportunities during the free time to purchase refreshments from local establishments.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Avoid overly formal or casual wear. The tour involves walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
What Language Is the Tour Provided In?
The tour is provided in English. The licensed, qualified guide is fluent in English and will lead the tour and provide commentary in English throughout the day.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour duration cannot be extended. The itinerary and timings are fixed, with 8 hours as the set duration. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, longer tour option rather than modifying this specific excursion.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary. The tour operator allows guests to modify the stops and duration based on their preferences, though additional fees may apply. Speak with the guide to discuss any customization options.
The Sum Up
The Edinburgh Shore Coach Excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, providing guided tours, ample free time, and a rich cultural experience. With comfortable walking shoes recommended, participants can enjoy the historic terrain, capturing unforgettable moments at the Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
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