Port
Newhaven (Edinburgh), UK
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
The Edinburgh Old and New Towns were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 because they represent a "remarkable juxtaposition of two clearly articulated urban-planning phenomena."
Edinburgh, the inspiring and beautiful capital of Scotland, was one of the major centers of the Enlightenment movement, a city of great medical knowledge and advances, and known as the Athens of the North. It is draped dramatically over a series of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags and is accessed by way of a network of narrow streets, steep closes, and secret staircases. From the comfort of your coach, explore the treasure trove of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is comprised of Edinburgh's Old and New Towns. The city boasts 40 conservation areas and more than 4,500 heritage-listed buildings -- a true feast for the eyes.
On this memorable panoramic drive, discover the Old Town, whose grandest fortification is Edinburgh Castle. The Old Town's most famous street, the Royal Mile, runs down an elevated rocky spine that dominates the center of the entire city. At the bottom of the Mile, you will see the modern love-it-or-hate-it Scottish Parliament building. Your guide will also point out Holyrood Palace -- the official Edinburgh residence of Her Majesty the Queen. Adjacent lies the extensive, rather wild Holyrood Park. Your coach will head partway up the hill for commanding views back over Edinburgh.
Enjoy afternoon coffee or tea and refreshments at an iconic Edinburgh hotel; then, return to the ship in Newhaven.