Edinburgh City Shore Excursion from Greenock Port
Cruise Excursion from Greenock (Glasgow) Port
Join us on this small group shore excursion to the Scottish Capital, Edinburgh from Greenock Port (Glasgow). This tour is perfect for ship’s that are not visiting Edinburgh Ports as part of their itinerary.
About Our Edinburgh City Shore Excursion from Greenock Port
Led by a knowledgeable Edinburgh city guide, you will enjoy a tour that allows you to experience the main highlights of Edinburgh’s Old Town in the time that you are docked at Greenock (Glasgow) Port. You will have the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle, The Real Mary Kings Close and Holyrood Palace. Please note that you cannot achieve all 3 locations and early booking is advisable if you want to visit any of them. You will then enjoy a guided tour of the Royal Mile and the chance to have a bite to eat. After lunch, we will walk up to Calton Hill which has great views towards Arthurs Seat and the city. Your tour will end with a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
All our tours include a knowledgeable guide and return port transfers. The tour does not include entrance fees, meals, and alcoholic drinks.
Edinburgh City Tour Highlights:
-
Have the chance to visit Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s most iconic castle that sits on castle rock, an extinct volcano. See the Scottish Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, National War Memorial, the One O’Clock Gun (not Sunday’s) and much more!
-
Have the opportunity to be guided through Edinburgh’s past, at the Real Mary King’s Close. This 5-star attraction will surely take you back in time. (not suitable for young children and those with mobility restrictions.)
-
Feel like a Queen if you decide to visit Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s Official Residence in Scotland.
-
Enjoy a real Scottish pint in one of the many old taverns on the Royal Mile.
-
Basque in the unique and vibrant Edinburgh Royal Mile atmosphere.
-
Marvel at the views from Carlton Hill (reasonable fitness required to access the view).
-
Walk through the Edinburgh Royal Botanical Gardens.The Gardens are free but there is an admission into the Glasshouse for anyone who would like to visit.
-
- Pick up from Greenock Port and make way for Edinburgh. We aim to arrive in Edinburgh between 9.30am – 10 am to save having to queue for too long at the various locations (prebooking your entrance will help avoid queuing). The bus will drop at the Grassmarket and your guide will lead you up Victoria Street to the castle. Your guide will then give the group 3 hours to explore the sites that you would like to see. Everyone will be expected to meet back at the steps of St Giles Cathedral at the time explained by your guide. For those who do not wish to see the castle or at least not at first (which is always recommended due to the crowds as the day progresses), you can continue down the Mile with your guide who will point out where the Real Mary King’s Close is as well as Holyrood Palace. For those who are not interested in seeing any of the mentioned attractions, you can spend time shopping on the mile and or by visiting the National Museum of Scotland.
- We will then meet back at St Giles Cathedral where we will then make our way to our lunch in one of the taverns on the Mile.
- After lunch, you will then be allocated a further 30 minutes for shopping while the guide brings those of the group who wish it, to see the Bakehouse Close as well as other key points on the Mile. You will then all meet back up and make your way to the bus, passing over George IV Bridge where you will see iconic sights such as the Elephant House where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter and Greyfriars Bobby.
- The group will then make the way on the bus to Calton Hill where you can enjoy views of the city. This is quite a strenuous (albeit short) walk but for those who can manage it, a very worthwhile visit. Those who do not wish to make the hike can stay with the bus.
- The last stop on the day will be a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens.
- We will then make our way back to the port in Greenock which is an hour and a half drive (without traffic) where the tour will end.
Please note: Please see your ticket time for when we wish you to meet at the Port. Each available “date” in our availability calendar is specific to your own ship’s schedule.
-
- A copy of your confirmation email
- A light rain jacket
- Cash, credit card, or Historic Scotland Explorer Pass for entrance fees
- Please wear closed-toe, comfortable footwear
-
- The start time is indicated on your ticket. We ask that you make a prompt departure from your ship. Your guide will be waiting for you at least 15 minutes prior to the tour start time.
- Tour lasts around 10 – 12 hours traffic depending.
- Times are dependent on local traffic conditions, and Slàinte Scotland cannot be held responsible for any delays.
- Tours are capped at 8 people. If you have more than 8 people in your group, please contact us to check availability.
- This tour is not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.
- You will be transported in a clean and comfortable vehicle with air conditioning
- Entrance fees are NOT included in this tour. We recommend purchasing a Historic Environment Explorer Pass, or any other entrance fee tickets in advance. If you are visiting more than one Scottish Port, an Explorer Pass may be of interest to you.
Tour Departs from the Greenock Port Exit on Patrick Street
Please see following map:




Slàinte Scotland Tours
Slainte Scotland / Clyde Coast Tourism Ltd
74 Davaar Road
Greenock
PA16 0RD
Scotland
