Edinburgh is one of the great cities of the world — an extraordinary combination of medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, a castle on a volcanic plug at the center of the city, one of the finest National Museums in Europe, Arthur’s Seat (an extinct volcano with panoramic views across the city), and the most concentrated assembly of outstanding whisky bars and restaurants in Scotland. VV calls at Leith, Edinburgh’s port district, 2 miles from the city center.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle sits on Castle Rock — a volcanic plug that has been fortified for over 3,000 years. The current castle dates primarily from the 12th century onward and houses the Scottish Crown Jewels (the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles), the Stone of Destiny (the coronation stone of Scottish kings), and the Scottish National War Memorial. The views from the castle esplanade over the New Town and the Firth of Forth are extraordinary.
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the monarch’s official Scottish residence) through the heart of the medieval Old Town. The closes (narrow alleyways) off the Royal Mile lead to hidden courtyards, surviving medieval buildings, and the subterranean vaults beneath the South Bridge. Mary King’s Close — a series of buried 16th and 17th century streets beneath the Royal Mile — offers one of the most atmospheric historical tours in Edinburgh.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano rising 250 meters above the city in Holyrood Park, accessible via a 45-minute walk from the bottom of the Royal Mile. The summit views over Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, the Pentland Hills, and the East Lothian coast are extraordinary. On a clear day the Bass Rock, Berwick Law, and (occasionally) the English border hills are visible.
Scotch Whisky
Edinburgh is the spiritual capital of Scotch whisky culture. The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile offers a comprehensive introduction to the five whisky regions and their distinct character. The Cadenhead’s shop on Canongate sells single cask bottlings unavailable anywhere else in the world.
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- Book Edinburgh Castle early. The most popular attraction in Scotland. Pre-booking online eliminates queues.
- Arthur’s Seat is the best free experience in Edinburgh. A 45-minute walk from the Old Town to extraordinary views. Pack walking shoes.
- Leith is worth exploring before heading to the city center. The Shore area in Leith has excellent restaurants and bars. Allow time on the way back to the ship.
Ready to Sail to Edinburgh?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates. Edinburgh is one of the great European port days in the VV fleet.
Book your Virgin Voyages cruise at CruisePlanner.pro — and climb the castle rock above one of Europe’s finest cities
