Privately Guided Day Tour
Edinburgh City Private Shore Excursion
Overview
Edinburgh is bursting with culture and energy. Avoid the hassle of public tours, and explore the best of the city with your own local guide. The tour begins at the top of Calton Hill, where you can soak in the panoramic views of the city, before delving into the charming Dean Village.
Next, you'll get to see Edinburgh Castle up close and learn why it's one of the most interesting, and exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Visit Arthur's Seat, and take in the vibrance of Leith district before finally, wandering through the historic and picturesque Old Town.
We can't wait to show you the wonders of our capital city.
Itinerary
Ship Pick-up
Your own personal guide will pick you either from your ship terminal or the tender port, usually arriving 30 minutes before your tour begins, ensuring a warm and seamless start to your experience.
Calton Hill
Also known as Monument Hill, this is a fantastic spot to look over Edinburgh. From here, you’ll be able to see Edinburgh Castle, Leith, the Old Town and the New Town. You might recognise the Monument from pictures, postcards or Pinterest, and that’s exactly why you’ll love this part of the tour. It’s a beautiful spot where your guide can tell you all about the history of Edinburgh – and point out all the landmarks as you go.
Dean Village
A true hidden gem, Dean Village is somewhere you might miss if travelling alone. With Hopscotch Travel, we’ll make sure you see all the best sights and make memories to last a lifetime. Upon entering Dean Village, you’ll be transported into another world, where cobbled streets and quaint houses sit on the banks of the Water of Leith. Historically, the village milled water and grains, and you can still spot many of the remains if you know where to look – and our guides do.
New Town
Although the New Town is not so ‘new’, it was originally built in the 1700s to give the wealthy a place to stay out-with the crowded streets of the city. All through the area, you’ll see typical examples of Georgian Townhouses and architecture and it’s now classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lunch
Your guide will provide you with a variety of lunch options ensuring there’s something to suit every taste and dietary preference.
Old Town
The Old Town of Edinburgh is perhaps the most famous. Here you’ll get to see Edinburgh Castle, the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile and maybe St Giles’ Cathedral.
Arthur’s Seat
As we travel through Edinburgh you’ll get spectacular view of Arthur’s Seat. As we pass by your guide will also point out the New Scottish Parliament Building and Holyrood Palace – the official residence for King Charles III here in Scotland. Palace of Holyrood Get up close to the splendid Palace of Holyrood as your personal guide shares its rich history, royal connections, and the stories behind its stunning architecture.
Edinburgh Castle
Marvel at the majestic Edinburgh Castle as your personal guide brings it to life, pointing out its fascinating history, architectural wonders and breathtaking views up close. The Castle is not part of this tour as you’ll need a good few hours to explore its amazing history!
Leith
Contrasting old with new, Edinburgh is full of surprises. In Leith, you’ll get to see both sides with Edinburgh’s ports and docks. It’s also in Leith where Mary Queen of Scots’ first arrived back in Scotland after her time in France. You can imagine it looks very different today.
Drop Off
Sit back and relax as your personal guide drops you back at your ship, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free end to your journey.
Inclusions
- Complimentary Ship Pick-up and Drop-off Service
- Privately Guided Tour – Just for you and your group
- Experienced Local Guide Every Step of the Way
- Luxurious, Premium Mercedes V-Class
- A Full Day of Touring
- Fully Customisable - built around you
- Lunch; your guide will recommend both sit-down and grab-and-go options.
- Attraction Tickets
- Guide Tip
We can make any tour custom to your needs and itinrary. Reach our to day and let us shape the perfect trip.
Gallery
What our Guests say
5/5 on TripAdvisor from 200+ reviews
FAQs
You can relax on this one. We've designed our Shore Excursions around a shorter time on land, so you'll be back at your port in good time for your ship.
Your guide will be waiting for you right at your ship's disembarkation point, or, if you tender to port, near the jetty as you come ashore. They'll also get in touch to let you know they've arrived.
There's no need to worry about delays outside your control. Your guide keeps an eye on your ship's arrival time and will be in touch on the day.
One of the joys of a private tour is that you decide what to do and when, and that includes comfort breaks. Your guide will happily stop whenever you need, so you stay comfortable throughout your time with us.
You certainly can. This is a fully private, bespoke experience, so it's yours to tailor. Just go ahead and book, then reply to your booking confirmation email with any changes you'd like, and we'll take care of the rest.
You might also like
Start Planning Your Scotland Adventure
Please contact us if you’d like to customise an existing tour or if you want to create a bespoke tour specifically for you and your group.
Our expert team of advisors are here to help.
.avif)
