Shore Excursions
Port-by-port shore excursions for cruises around the British Isles, Ireland, the Atlantic coast of Europe and the islands of Madeira, the Canaries and the Azores.
Find your port »Plan Your Day Ashore
Cruises in these waters swing between very different kinds of port days. One morning you step off beside a castle town in Scotland or a cathedral city in Spain; the next you land on a volcanic island where the best scenery is an hour up a mountain road. Some famous names, such as Paris, Seville and Granada, are long drives from the pier. Each page below explains how a call works and what people usually do with the time.
The tours on every port page are live listings designed with cruise schedules in mind, from walking tours that start at the terminal to private drivers, whisky and wine outings, and full days inland. Check the duration and the meeting point against your all-aboard time before you book.
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ViatorTours, prices and reviews from Viator, a Tripadvisor company — prices are per person, from, and were checked October 28, 2026. Shore Excursions may earn a commission when you book, at no extra cost to you. Always allow a generous buffer to be back on board before all-aboard time.
Want a custom Shore Excursions port day?
Tell us your ship, dates, ports and interests. A cruise specialist can arrange private or small-group port days with pier pick-up and a prompt return to your ship.
Request a custom shore plan »Shore Excursions — FAQ
How changeable is the weather on a British Isles cruise?
Very. Sun, wind and rain can all turn up on the same day in Scotland, Ireland and the northern isles, even in summer. Pack a waterproof jacket, layers and shoes that can handle wet paths, especially for coastal walks and island tours.
Which ports here are far from the main attraction?
Le Havre is a long drive from Paris, Cádiz from Seville and Málaga from the Alhambra in Granada. Larger ships calling for Bordeaux may stop at the mouth of the Gironde, well outside the city. On those days a tour with transport included keeps the timing simple.
What money will I need ashore?
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use the pound sterling, as do Gibraltar and Guernsey alongside their own local notes. Ireland, France, Spain and Portugal, including Madeira, the Canaries and the Azores, use the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Will I need to take a tender boat ashore?
In some ports, yes. Guernsey is a tender port, and ships calling for Edinburgh often anchor off South Queensferry. Kirkwall and Lerwick can go either way depending on ship size. Tendering adds time at both ends of the day, so allow a margin.