Royal Yacht Britannia

Follow in the footsteps of Royalty and explore this floating Royal residence with a fascinating audio tour of five decks. The Royal Yacht Britannia played host to some of the world’s most famous people, from Nelson Mendela to Winston Churchill, but above all was home for the British Royal Family for over 40 years. Now berthed in Leith, Edinburgh, you can discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences. You'll receive a truly warm welcome at Britannia's Visitor Centre in Ocean Terminal before you step aboard this famous ship where you will discover the history of Royal Yachts and view displays and historical photographs of Britannia's fascinating past before boarding The Royal Yacht Britannia. What will you see? Tour Britannia’s five decks Feel like the captain of the ship in the Bridge See Queen Elizabeth II's favourite room- the Sun Lounge Discover below decks in the Crew’s Quarters Take in the Royal Sailing Exhibition

1 hour

New Town (Pass By)

The initial plan for Edinburgh’s New Town was approved by the City Council in 1767, and is the largest complete example of town planning from the Georgian period anywhere in the world. Its mixture of classical architecture, grand squares and terraces, gardens and secluded lanes, means that a walk through its streets is a journey back in time to an age of elegance. Highlights of the New Town Charlotte Square, designed by the architect Robert Adam in 1791, is regarded as an architectural masterpiece. Here you can visit the Georgian House and gain some insights into daily life from 200 years ago. In nearby George Street the Assembly Rooms, which date from 1787, is still used for concerts, dancing and entertainment. At the opposite end of George Street is St Andrew Square, where the gardens are now open to the public.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill and the National Monument are situated in Central Edinburgh, east of Edinburgh's New Town. Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill has some of the city's best views and if you get up early, the best sunrises. Calton Hill is also resident to some iconic Scottish monuments and buildings. Monuments include the National Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, Nelson's Monument, the Old Royal High School, Robert Burns Monument, Political Martyrs' Monument and also the City Observatory. The City Observatory is now home to Collective, a free, contemporary art space with a programme of world-class exhibitions, events, workshops and discussions from ground-breaking local and international artists.

30 minutes

Holyrood Park

Take a Drive through Holyrood Park and around Arthurs Seat the extinct volcano overlooking Edinburgh with some spectacular views. If feeling adventurous you can take a hike to take in unparalleled vistas of the city, this takes around 45min to complete so may require changes to the itinerary for the day if required. Access to the Park is subject to Seasonal Schedules and Weather Related.

30 minutes

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Photo Stop - The Palace of Holyroodhouse The official residence of the King in Scotland. Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Explore the Palace's close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it is used by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. At the Palace of Holyroodhouse, visitors can explore magnificent historic and State Apartments, the beautiful ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey and remarkable royal gardens, all with a complimentary multimedia tour in 10 languages. Today, the State Apartments are used regularly for State ceremonies and official entertaining. The Palace is closed when in use by the Royal Family. If you wanted to Tour the Palace Itinerary will need to change.

15 minutes

Royal Mile

As you depart The Palce of Holyroodhouse you will walk the Royal Mile up to the historic Castle. Edinburgh's Royal Mile is the heart of Scotland's historic capital. Running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, with the splendorous Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Mile is overlooked by impressive, towering tenements, between which cobbled closes and narrow stairways interlock to create a secret underground world. Peppered with superb attractions and historical sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city, the Royal Mile offers much to see and do. A great location to stop and take lunch whilst taking in some Scottish hospitality. The Royal Mile is explored on foot, due to vehicle restrictions in the city, your driver will meet you after completeing the mile and Edinburgh Castle stops. They will be on hand if the walk is a little too much to drive to the Castle Stop.

1 hour

Edinburgh Castle

Explore Edinburgh Castle at your own pace, our castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away. There are many ways to experience Edinburgh Castle. Go straight to an exciting part, follow an itinerary, or allow an audio guide to show you around. Edinburgh Castle is alive with exciting tales of its time as a military fortress, royal residence and prison of war. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two. Exploring Edinburgh Castle is a highlight of any Scottish adventure, memories will be created and long remembered. On completion of your time here you will walk out of the gatehouse and down to Old Town.

1 hour 30 minutes

Grassmarket

Once a medieval market place and site for public executions, the Grassmarket area is now a vibrant area buzzing with eclectic shops. Its detailed medieval architecture, stunning castle views and dynamic atmosphere make it one of the city’s most-loved areas, frequented by tourists, students and professionals alike. Though Grassmarket executions ceased in 1784, some of the traditional area’s pubs, such as The Last Drop and Maggie Dickson's, keep alive the bloody tale of a chequered past. The White Hart Inn has played host to some famous patrons, including Robert Burns. Fashion fans will uncover a wealth of gems at Armstrongs Vintage Emporium, a haven of retro clothes and quirky accessories, while Fabhatrix offers beautiful hand-made hats and accessories, perfect for a Scottish summer shower or winter frost. Your Edinburgh Day is now complete, with all that walking your luxury vehicle and Scottish driver will chauffeur you back to your accomodation or cruise ship

30 minutes