Edinburgh, reached via the nearby ports of Rosyth or Leith, is a city of dramatic beauty, rich history, and a creative spirit that runs deep.
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Aboard
Star Pride
From
Edinburgh (Rosyth/Leith), Scotland
1 Sailing
Jun 1, 2026
Aboard
Star Pride
From
Edinburgh (Rosyth/Leith), Scotland
1 Sailing
Jun 25, 2026
Aboard
Star Pride
From
Edinburgh (Rosyth/Leith), Scotland
1 Sailing
Jun 25, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Star Pride
From
Edinburgh (Rosyth/Leith), Scotland
1 Sailing
Jun 1, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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Overview
Just a short drive from either port, Scotland’s capital immediately impresses with its stunning skyline—where ancient spires and volcanic cliffs meet elegant Georgian streets. Edinburgh Castle looms over the Old Town, anchoring the Royal Mile, while Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament sit at the other end, blending royalty with modern governance.
The city is a cultural powerhouse, famous for its festivals, literary heritage, and vibrant food and drink scene. Visitors can explore underground vaults, sip whisky in a historic pub, or browse independent shops and galleries tucked into centuries-old buildings. For panoramic views, a climb up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill is well worth the effort.
With layers of charm, history, and personality, Edinburgh offers an unforgettable experience—whether you are visiting for a day or diving deeper into Scotland’s capital soul.
If you're docking in Leith, start your day with a visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia. This iconic vessel served as the royal residence for Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family for over 40 years. Today, the yacht is a fascinating museum, where you can explore the luxurious living quarters, the royal suites, and the crew’s areas. Don’t miss the Royal Deck Tea Room, where you can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea while gazing out over the dock.
Tip: Allow about 1-1.5 hours for a thorough tour of the yacht. It’s a great way to get a taste of royal life and the maritime history of Edinburgh.
After your visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, hop in a taxi or use public transportation to head towards Edinburgh city center. The drive will take around 30 minutes and offers some scenic views, as you pass through Leith, the Port of Edinburgh, and the picturesque streets of the city.
Tip: If you’re looking for a quicker route to the city center, the Edinburgh bus service (Lothian Buses) operates regular routes from Leith to the Royal Mile.
Once you arrive in central Edinburgh, make your way to Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Situated atop a volcanic rock, the castle dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. Explore the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in the city. The National War Museum of Scotland is also worth a visit for military history buffs.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and to ensure you have enough time to explore. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the lines.
Next, take a leisurely walk down the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s most famous street that stretches from the castle to Palace of Holyroodhouse. This medieval thoroughfare is lined with fascinating shops, cafés, restaurants, and historic sites. Along the way, stop by St Giles’ Cathedral, a stunning example of Scottish Gothic architecture, and make sure to pop into some of the unique local shops selling Scottish wool, whisky, and handmade crafts.
Tip: For a real treat, stop at The Royal Mile Tavern to try a pint of traditional Scottish ale or some delicious whisky!
At the bottom of the Royal Mile, you’ll find Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace is open to the public, where you can explore the State Apartments, Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers, and the beautiful Holyrood Abbey ruins. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Tip: If you’re short on time, focus on the palace grounds and gardens, which are a great way to unwind and take in the views of Arthur’s Seat in the distance.
For a bit of adventure and some of the best views in Edinburgh, take a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that rises high above the city. The hike is relatively short but steep, and once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding hills.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike can be challenging, especially near the top. If you're short on time, you can opt for a quicker walk to Holyrood Park for beautiful views of the mountain from below.
Head to the National Museum of Scotland, just a short walk from the Royal Mile, for an enriching cultural experience. The museum is free to enter and is home to an incredible collection of artifacts, including Scottish history, international art, and science exhibits. Don’t miss the Scottish Galleries, where you’ll get a deep dive into Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
Tip: If you're pressed for time, focus on the Scottish History section or the Victorian Art collection for a condensed but insightful experience.
Take a moment to relax and unwind with a walk through Princes Street Gardens, located in the heart of the city. This lush green space offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and is perfect for a peaceful break. If you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping, Princes Street, which runs along the gardens, is home to many high-street shops, boutiques, and department stores.
Tip: If you enjoy gardens, make sure to visit The Ross Fountain, a Victorian-style fountain in the center of the gardens, for a lovely photo op.
For a taste of Edinburgh's lively atmosphere, head to Grassmarket, a historic area known for its pubs, cafés, and independent shops. Once notorious for public executions, today it’s a vibrant neighborhood with charming cobbled streets and a picturesque view of Edinburgh Castle. From Grassmarket, take a stroll up to Victoria Street, a colorful, curving street filled with quirky shops, bars, and cafés.
Tip: Grab a quick coffee or snack at one of the local cafés and soak in the lively, bohemian vibe of the area.
As your day in Edinburgh winds down, head over to Calton Hill to catch one of the best sunset views in the city. The hill offers stunning views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding landscape, with monuments such as the National Monument of Scotland and Nelson Monument adding to the charm.
Tip: It’s a short walk from the city center, and it’s the perfect way to cap off your day before heading back to your cruise ship.
