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Edinburgh, United Kingdom

City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

4.8
24 Hours
from£20.00 p.p.

Overview

Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours in Edinburgh are a popular way to explore the city and its many attractions. These tours allow you to get on and off the bus at multiple stops throughout the city, providing flexibility to explore various landmarks at your own pace. You won't have to lose out on amazing vistas and photo opportunities while travelling. Don't let the opportunity slip to make priceless memories! Start your journey by reserving your tour right now!

Highlights

  • Frequent Stops: Buses make frequent stops at major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur's Seat, and the National Museum of Scotland.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks.
  • Relaxing Experience: Sit back and unwind as you move through Edinburgh on our open roof bus.
  • Audio Commentary:Buses are equipped with audio commentary available in multiple languages, providing insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites you pass.

Itinerary

There's no better way to begin your bus tour than from Waterloo Place. Take it easy and enjoy the ride as we take you to some of Edinburgh's most beautiful and culturally rich locations. Discover the magnificent mediaeval marketplace known as Grassmarket, which is situated in the centre of Edinburgh's Old Town. Explore the National Museum of Scotland located on renowned Chambers Street to gain comprehensive knowledge of Edinburgh's past.

John Knox House, a stunning mediaeval structure that dates all the way back to the 15th century, is the next stop on the itinerary. Want to take a walk while you're here? We suggest getting out at Holyrood, where you can explore the royal park and view the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or walking along Canongate, where you can see some amazing architecture. We can even take you directly to Our Dynamic Earth if you have an intense passion for science!

To see the sights, visit the city's museums, or take a leisurely stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, either join the train for the full round or get out at any of the stops along the way. In order to make the most of your trip, don't forget to put in your headphones and enjoy the onboard audio commentary, which highlights all of the major sights along the route and provides historical context and interesting anecdotes.

Let our special buses handle the driving while you unwind. As we drive you around the most famous places in the city, keep your camera ready for amazing selfies, and get off as soon as you see something you want to investigate more. You are free to rejoin at any moment!

Popular stops on the Hop-On Hop-Off Route:

  • Edinburgh Castle: One of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland, offering stunning views of the city.
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
  • The Royal Mile: A historic street running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
  • Scottish Parliament: Modern architecture and the seat of the Scottish Government.
  • Arthur's Seat: An ancient volcano and popular hiking spot with panoramic views.
  • National Museum of Scotland: A comprehensive museum with exhibits on Scottish history, culture, and natural history.
  • The Grassmarket: A historic market area with vibrant bars, restaurants, and shops.

Inclusions

  • 24 Hours Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket
  • Upto 3 Kids Go Free! per adult ticket
  • Discounts to access local attractions
  • Special kids "Horrible Histories" commentary

Red Route (Until 28th March 2026):

  • First Bus: 08:55am, Last Bus: 03:55pm
  • Loop: (Approx.) 70 Minutes
  • Frequency: 20 Minutes

  • The first stop is located at Waterloo Place, but you can hop on or hop off the tour at any of the stops along the route.
  • Voucher can be exchanged directly with the driver on board.
  • You will receive a ticket in exchange for your voucher, which you must keep until the expiry date/ tour.
  • Please check your ticket to know when it expires.
  • After exchanging your voucher for a ticket, your voucher will no longer be valid.
  • In loss of voucher/ticket, company is not liable for any refund.

Voucher Validity:

  • The voucher is valid for 12 months from the date of booking.

Important Info:

  • There may be disruptions due to weather, traffic, and events.
  • Stops and timings are subject to alter. There will be an updated map on the bus.
  • There may be a small delay in the bus's arrival and departure schedules.
  • Road closures and heavy traffic can result in delays, reduced trips, and route modifications. We'll make every effort to deliver a seamless and regular service! Under these circumstances, there will be no refund.
  • Infants can travel free and you do not require to book infant ticket.
  • Kids Go Free! Upto 3 children will be able to travel for free per adult. Children should still be booked at the time of booking but for £0.

Information for Cruise Passengers:

  • Guests will be required to take alternative methods of transportation to reach the City Sightseeing stop number 1 St Andrew Square (Charges may apply to all transportation and is subject to availability). Guests are reminded to check on the location of the Edinburgh port before arrival.
  • Cruise guests arriving into Leith can collect a shuttle bus from the terminal to Waterloo Place, this is an approx. 6 minute walk from City Sightseeing Bus Stop 1.
  • Cruise guests arriving into South Queens ferry (Hounds Point) can collect a shuttle bus from the terminal to Charlotte Square, this is an approx. 10 minute walk from City Sightseeing Bus stop 2.
  • Cruise guests arriving into Newhaven will be able to pick up a local bus into central Edinburgh and will take approx. 30 minutes.

Christmas Operating Hours:

  • 24th December: The tour will operate from 8:55am - 2:55pm, every 20 minutes
  • 25th December: The tour will operate from 10am - 3pm, every 20 minutes
  • 26th December: Normal service
  • 31st December: The tour will operate from 8:55am - 2:55pm, every 20 minutes
  • 1st January 2026: The tour will operate from 11am - 4pm, every 20 minutes

  • To get the full refund, you must cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the activity/tour start time. If you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the activity/ tour start time, you will not get any refund.
  • Modifications/ changes are allowed at least 24 hours before the activity/ tour start time. You must contact us through email.
  • The activity/tour's local start time determines the cut-off times.

  • There may be unexpected changes in the route or timetable due to traffic, public holidays, weather conditions, cruise ship arrivals, or other unanticipated situations. During major events, summer vacations, and weekends, the city will be quite busy. We will do everything we can to provide a smooth and consistent service! In such cases, no reimbursement is allowed.
  • Tours run regardless of the weather. Weather-related refunds will not be issued unless the service is discontinued due to inclement weather.
  • The service provider preserves the right to amend or cancel the itinerary due to city events or force majeure.

Customer Reviews

4.6

based on 1757 reviews

Rating Distribution

5 stars
1275
4 stars
302
3 stars
112
2 stars
63
1 stars
5

"The bus saved time and covered all key landmarks. Clean buses, clear audio commentary, and flexible boarding made the trip smooth and enjoyable."

11 May, 2026

"Convenient stops near famous places with helpful guides onboard. A relaxing and affordable way to discover the city without worrying about transportation."

11 May, 2026

"Long waiting times between buses ruined our schedule. Staff seemed unhelpful, and several stops were skipped without any proper explanation."

11 May, 2026

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to common questions about our tours and booking process.

No, it is not wheelchair accessible
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice
The tour includes a professional local guide and entrance to Recoleta Cemetery.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice.
Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most centrally located hotels in Buenos Aires.
No. The tour is mostly done by vehicle, with only short walks and photo stops.

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