All South Queensferry Tours & Excursions in 2026

Escape the city and see some of Edinburgh’s lesser-known sights on a boat cruise that takes you to Inchcolm Island, home to both a medieval abbey and a colony of sea lions and seals. As well as escaping the crowds on land, you’ll bag the best views of the famous Three Bridges.

Scotland’s capital comes alive on this panoramic tour of Edinburgh. Travel through the medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town, led by an expert guide who shares captivating stories of the city's past. Marvel at iconic sights including the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, and Edinburgh Castle, all while enjoying stunning views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill. Perfect for those who want to explore Edinburgh's highlights in comfort, this tour offers enriching experiences and photo opportunities that showcase the city's beauty. - Explore Edinburgh’s rich history and landmarks with an expert guide - Visit iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace - Enjoy breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill - Perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable and informative city tour - Get insights into the history and culture of the region from your guide

This private tour allows you to indulge your love of whisky while traveling through some of Scotland's most spectacular landscapes. You'll visit four different whisky distilleries (your choice out of a possible eight) where you will enjoy expert-led tastings, which typically include three whiskies at each stop. Ideal for whisky lovers.

Visit three whisky distilleries in one day without the hassle of designating a driver or navigating public transport. This private tour is exclusively for your party so you'll enjoy a personalized experience as your guide drives you to award-winning distilleries—Strathisla, GlenAllachie, and Glenlivet—where you will enjoy tastings and insights into the world of Scotch.

Discover the best of Scotland’s capital on a semi-private tour designed for cruise guests who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing loop. With small group sizes, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and immersive experience led by a local guide who knows how to bring Edinburgh’s layered history to life. Your day combines a panoramic drive through the Georgian elegance of the New Town with a guided walking tour of the Old Town, where cobbled closes and historic landmarks reveal the city’s medieval past. From the Royal Mile to Victoria Street and the Vennel Steps, your guide shares fascinating stories that make the streets come alive. With entrance to Edinburgh Castle included, you’ll cap off the day with a self-guided visit to Scotland’s most iconic stronghold, complete with sweeping city views. This carefully curated itinerary offers the perfect balance of storytelling, scenery, and independence—far from the crowds of larger tours.

Explore St Andrews and see the Old Course. Travel along Fife's famous 'Coastal Road' bringing us through several of the area's most stunning fishing villages. Wander through the village of Falkland which stood in for Inverness in TVs Outlander.

Founded in 2022, Queensferry Walking Tours is a passion project by two brothers who want to share their knowledge and love for this special historic town. Elavation: Flat Views: Spectacular Weather: Scottish You and your group will be shown the best parts of the village and gain a true appreciation, through stories and by discovering it’s beautiful Scottish architecture. You will also find the best viewpoints and photo opportunities along the shore, Three Bridges, Waterfront & Village Tour. (South) Queensferry is situated on the Firth of Forth (river forth estuary) approximately 14 miles west of Edinburgh city centre, less than 10 minutes by train. Cruise ships anchor off the coast adjacent the Forth Railway bridge and guests are tendered in to the Hawes Pier. Typically a tour of South Queensferry starts at 10am and finishes at midday, however this can be flexible for larger groups, so please be in touch for bespoke timings.

Scotland is home to many fine whisky distilleries often overlooked in the capital. This private tour lets you sample the best of Edinburgh's whisky scene by visiting two single malt distilleries and the exclusive Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Learn about whisky origins, discover local history, enjoy tastings, and take in Edinburgh’s sights.

Step off your ship and into the heart of Scottish heritage with a shore excursion that captures the spirit, history, and charm of the countryside, Castles and Iconic monuments. Stirling Castle: Where Legends Were Forged Explore the restored Royal Palace, the Great Hall, and the castle’s rich connections to figures like Mary, Queen of Scots and William Wallace. 'Highland Coos': You'll have the chance to get up close to 'hand feed' them for photos and learn about this iconic breed’s role in Scottish farming and culture. Whisky Distillery experience: Scotland’s Liquid Gold! No visit to Scotland is complete without a taste and tour of its national drink. The Kelpies: Scotland’s Modern Myth Two colossal horse-head sculptures standing 30 meters tall, these modern marvels pay homage to the shape-shifting water spirits of Scottish legend. Return to Port Relax on the drive back to your ship, enriched with a deeper appreciation of Scotland’s history, natural beauty, culture and spirit.

The visiting schedule may vary depending on the Edinburgh port where your ship docks; however, all key aspects of the tour are included regardless of the docking or tendering port. After meeting your official guide, board an air-conditioned coach and begin with a Drive-By visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia ( Drive-By). Continue to Edinburgh Castle for stunning views and history (entry optional). Next, visit the Palace of Holyrood House and enjoy a guided stroll along the iconic Royal Mile, passing St Giles Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament, and historic alleys. Time is included for refreshments and photos. Your guide will provide commentary throughout. Ample breaks are included, and if the ship’s time in port is shortened, visits will be adjusted to ensure on-time return—typically one hour before sailing.

Discover St Andrews and Fife with a private guide to show you around some of the very best that this part of Scotland has to offer. From castles to cathedrals to fishing villages and much more, this scenic tour will leave you with a fresh appreciation for the beauty and culture of this gorgeous country.

When your cruise ship arrives in Edinburgh, get to know Scotland’s capital on this full-day shore excursion. Board a comfortable coach which takes you to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia (optional extra), the former royal yacht of the British monarchy. Then enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh before stopping to explore medieval Edinburgh Castle (optional extra), once residence to Scotland’s kings and queens. Use your free time for lunch and to explore the famous Royal Mile and see the Palace of Holyroodhouse the official residence of the British Royal Family in Scotland.

The Speyside region of northeast Scotland is renowned for its single malt whiskies, but enjoying them typically requires designating a driver. Skip the hassle on a private tour that allows you to fully immerse yourself in Scotland’s whisky-making history and heritage as you visit three Speyside distilleries in one day. Visit distilleries such as Macallan, Glenfarclas, Glenfiddich, or Aberlour; learn about the whisky-making process; and sample a selection of different whiskies.

For history enthusiasts and admirers of Mary Queen of Scots, this tour will take you through her remarkable, yet tragic life. Follow her footsteps, as you explore her favourite palaces, homes, and scenic views. From Linlithgow Palace to Stirling Castle and Falkland Palace, you’ll get to experience not only the history of this iconic monarch, but also the beauty of Scotland as you travel from place to place. Let us take the stress out of travel as you escape fixed itineraries and crowded buses. Sit back, relax and enjoy a private tour designed exclusively for you and your group, featuring: • A Private Day Tour tailored to your preferences. • An Expert Local Guide with decades of experience. • A Convenient Door-to-Door Service from your hotel or accommodation. • Travel in Style and Comfort aboard a luxurious Mercedes-Benz V-Class Minivan.

Step away from fixed itineraries and crowded buses and step into the comfort of your own luxury minivan driven by an experienced local guide. Let us take away the stresses of travel with a privately guided day tour of Edinburgh, which can be entirely tailored to you and what you want to see. The tour begins at the top of Calton Hill, where you can soak in the panoramic views of the city, before delving into the charming Dean Village. Next, you'll get to see Edinburgh Castle up close and learn why it's one of the most interesting, and exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Visit Arthur's Seat, and take in the vibrance of Leith district before finally, wandering through the historic and picturesque Old & New Towns. Your tour includes: • A Private Day Tour tailored to your preferences. • An Expert Local Guide with decades of experience. • A complimentary hotel pickup and drop off service. • Travel in style and comfort aboard a premium minivan.

Maximise your time ashore and let Macleod Heilan Tours take you on a Scottish adventure through some of the best historical locations in Scotland. This tour gives you a real flavour of Scotland with a visit to the magnificent Kelpies a huge 100ft steel structure which pays homage to one of Scotland’s most famous mythical beasts along with a visit to other Falkirk gems the Falkirk Wheel & Callander House. The Falkirk wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world and is a marvel of Scottish engineering giving you a feel for Scotland’s industrial past. Callendar house is a 14th century estate that has played host to many great historical figures over the centuries, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie and more recently being used for filming of the popular tv show Outlander. The main highlight of the day is a visit to the mighty Stirling Castle which is a real testament to Scotland’s past where many of our most famous battles were fought and won.

Rather than following someone else's trail, choose your own adventure on this private whisky tour of the Highlands. A must for any whisky fan, work with your tour guide to create your ideal tour, taking in some of your favorite distilleries, or discover something new. Talk with distillers and your guide about the history of Scotland’s most famous export, and learn all there is to know about the history of whisky making.

This private shore excursion is designed specifically for cruise ship guests looking to experience the very best of Scotland in one unforgettable day. Unlike large bus tours, you will travel at a relaxed pace with a friendly local guide, enjoying a flexible and personalised experience tailored to your interests and your ship’s schedule. Discover the world-famous town of St Andrews, charming fishing villages, historic Falkland and spectacular Scottish scenery, with opportunities to see castles, Highland cows and beautiful coastal views along the way. Fans of Outlander will also love visiting one of the series’ famous filming locations. With private transport, convenient port pickup and guaranteed return to your ship on time, this tour offers a stress-free and memorable way to explore Scotland beyond Edinburgh.

Skip the crowds and explore St Andrews, the Kingdom of Fife and the East Neuk fishing villages on a fully private, door-to-door tour in a luxury minivan. The Kingdom of Fife is one of Scotland's most rewarding day trips from Edinburgh — and one of its most underrated. On this fully private tour, you'll cross the iconic Forth Bridge into a region packed with medieval history, dramatic coastline, world-famous golf, and the kind of hidden-gem fishing villages that most visitors never find. Your day is built around you. Travel in a luxury minivan with a dedicated local guide. There are no strangers on this tour, no fixed pace, and no rushing — just you, your group, and a guide who knows this corner of Scotland inside out. Snacks and bottled water are provided throughout the day. Your guide handles all the driving, navigation, and timing, so you can simply enjoy the journey.

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Edinburgh to Northumberland's sites steeped in dark history. Available April to October, this tour includes a photo stop at the iconic Bamburgh Castle, a scenic coastal walk (2.5 miles/4km round trip) to the haunting ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle which takes about an hour. The afternoon sees us visiting Chillingham Castle - reported to be the most haunted place in the UK. Finally, end with a stop at the historic ruins of Dryburgh Abbey. Experience the tales and landscapes of these captivating locations without the crowds.

Book your Private Transfer from South Queensferry Cruise Port to Edinburgh city hotels or any address. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door-to-door port/city transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

Maximise your time ashore and visit one of Scotland’s most famous towns. St Andrews is an ancient town nestled on the east coast of Scotland which was an important location for holy pilgrimage. Not only considered the home of golf but it has an array of beautiful and historical buildings with the third oldest University in the English-speaking world. This tour also has the benefits of visiting the town of Falkland used in the tv series Outlander and home to Falkland Palace and said to be one of the places Mary Queen of Scots favoured the most. Before ending the tour, we explore the fishing villages of East Neuk which can include Crail, Pittenweem, & Anstruther. Itinerary can be amended on the day to include sights such as Dunfermline Abbey (This will effect other stops on the itinerary) No Dock No Fee - We offer free refunds on any tour that's ship fails to make port giving you the peace of mind when choosing to tour with us.

Discover the sightseeing highlights of Glasgow on one handy private tour with the help of a guide to share the history behind the attractions as you go. On this customizable experience, you travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow in a comfortable private vehicle to check out sights like Glasgow Cathedral, the West End, the Merchant City, and more.