Edinburgh, Scotland

The most dominant feature of the city is Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano. It offers panoramic views and a deep dive into Scottish history. It's about a 30-45 minute journey from the cruise ports in Leith or South Queensferry.

Stretching downhill from the castle is the historic Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare of the Old Town. This bustling street is lined with shops, pubs, and historic buildings, leading to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

For passengers docking or tendering near Leith, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-see. The former royal yacht is permanently moored at Ocean Terminal and is just a short walk from the Port of Leith cruise terminal.

A popular day trip is to the city of Stirling, approximately one hour away by road. It is home to the magnificent Stirling Castle, a historically significant royal residence, and the National Wallace Monument.

Another excellent option is the town of St Andrews, located about 90 minutes from Edinburgh. It is world-renowned as the 'home of golf' and features the University of St Andrews and scenic coastal ruins. For those tendering at South Queensferry, the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is immediately visible and offers a fantastic photo opportunity right from the tender pier.

Edinburgh does not have a single, central cruise port; where your ship arrives depends on its size. Smaller ships may dock at the Port of Leith, which is about 3 miles (5 km) north of the city center. This area features the Ocean Terminal shopping center, which has shops and restaurants.

Larger cruise ships typically anchor in the Firth of Forth and tender passengers ashore. The most common tender port is South Queensferry, located about 10 miles (16 km) west of the city center, beneath the famous Forth Bridges. Another tender location is Newhaven, situated between Leith and South Queensferry.

Regardless of the arrival point, transportation is required to reach the main attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle buses from the tender ports to a central point in the city.

The official currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP), symbolized by £. While part of the UK, Scotland issues its own banknotes, which are legal tender throughout the United Kingdom, though sometimes met with unfamiliarity in England.

US Dollars and Euros are not accepted for transactions. You will need to use Pounds Sterling. ATMs, locally known as cash machines or cash points, are widely available throughout the city, including near the port areas and in the city center. Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and attractions. It is always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases or market stalls.

Edinburgh is generally a very safe city for tourists, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring independently. The city center and main tourist areas are well-policed and accustomed to international visitors.

As in any major city, it is wise to take standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas like the Royal Mile, on public transport, and at major attractions. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. Using common sense is the best approach to ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit.

The cruise season in Edinburgh typically runs from late spring to early autumn (May through September). During this time, the weather is mild but famously unpredictable. Average summer high temperatures range from 15-19°C (59-66°F).

Rain is possible at any time, and it's not uncommon to experience 'four seasons in one day.' Passengers should pack in layers, including sweaters or fleeces, and a waterproof jacket is essential, even on a day that starts out sunny. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the city's cobbled streets and hills. There is no hurricane season to be concerned about in this part of the world.

Edinburgh has an excellent public transportation system. The primary operator is Lothian Buses, which offers extensive and frequent services throughout the city. From the Port of Leith, several bus lines run directly to Princes Street in the city center in about 20-30 minutes.

The Edinburgh Trams network connects the airport to the city center and has an extension to Newhaven, making it a convenient option if your ship tenders there. Taxis are also readily available, though they are more expensive than public transport. For passengers arriving at South Queensferry, cruise lines typically provide shuttle buses to the city center due to the distance.

Edinburgh offers a diverse shopping experience. Princes Street is the main shopping thoroughfare with high-street brands and department stores, offering great views of the castle. For luxury and designer brands, nearby George Street is the premier destination. The Royal Mile is the best place to find traditional Scottish souvenirs, including cashmere, tartan, whisky, and shortbread.

For unique and independent boutiques, explore the winding Victoria Street in the Old Town or the charming areas of Stockbridge. Fixed prices are standard in all shops, and haggling is not part of the local culture. The Ocean Terminal shopping center at the Port of Leith also offers a convenient option for last-minute shopping before returning to your ship.