Edinburgh Shore Excursion: Cows, Rosslyn Chapel and Royal Mile

Meet three of the most adorable shaggy Highland 'Coos', Angus, Thelma and Louise.

During a tour at Rosslyn Chapel, visitors can choose between a guided talk led by a chapel guide or a self-guided experience with a free carvings map and optional audio guide. The tour focuses on the chapel's intricate stone carvings, medieval architecture, history, and the many legends surrounding it, including its links to the Knights Templar and its prominent feature in The Da Vinci Code. Visits are scheduled in 90-minute timeslots, and booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

The Grassmarket is a historic market square and street located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, directly below the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Once a hub of trade and public executions, it is now a vibrant, picturesque, and lively destination known for its pubs, unique shops, and historical atmosphere.

Your guide will drop you off at the top of the Royal Mile and meet at the bottom. The Royal mile is steeped in ancient history and culture with many attractions for you to explore at your leisure: St Giles' Cathedral: Head inside this stunning, 12th-century masterpiece of Gothic architecture, famous for its intricate stained-glass windows and crown spire. The Real Mary King's Close (Exterior): While the full tour is too long for a two-hour visit, you can see the entrance to this famous subterranean close near the City Chambers. The attraction is built over a labyrinth of well-preserved 17th-century streets and houses. Pubs and Shops: The middle section of the Mile is filled with pubs and shops. It is a good time to grab a quick drink at a historic pub like the World's End or browse a few of the independent shops before your guide picks you back up.

Calton Hill is an iconic, volcanic hill in central Edinburgh, famous for its collection of neoclassical monuments, stunning panoramic city views, and designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monuments on Calton Hill have earned Edinburgh the nickname "Athens of the North," reflecting the city's aspirations during the Scottish Enlightenment Only 30 min from the cruise terminal, this is a fitting place to say your farewells to Edinburgh as we take advantage of your elevation for cracking pictures of the skyline below.