Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural festivals. From the imposing Edinburgh Castle perched high on its rocky outcrop to the historic Royal Mile and the natural beauty of Arthur's Seat, this city offers one too many experiences. Add in world-class museums, a lively food and drink scene, and centuries of fascinating history, and you’ve got a city that’s begging to be explored.
But navigating the winding streets and hidden alleys of Edinburgh's old city can be daunting, especially for first-time visitors. That's where Edinburgh’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours come to the rescue. With these convenient and comprehensive tours, you can easily explore all the top spots without the hassle of figuring out public transport or the expense of taxis. All you need is one ticket, and you’re set to uncover the best that Edinburgh has to offer at your own pace.
Why take Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour in Edinburgh?
Discover iconic landmarks
Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours offer a unique way to see all of Edinburgh's top attractions from the comfort of an open-top bus. You'll have a front-row seat to landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile,Holyrood Palace, and more, all while enjoying a panoramic view of the city.
Effortless exploration
Forget the hassle of navigating public transport or hailing cabs. With just one ticket, you can explore the best of Edinburgh at your own pace. Hop off at any stop to visit an attraction, then hop back on when you’re ready to continue your journey.
Cost-effective sightseeing
Save money on your trip by opting for a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. Instead of spending on multiple local transport fares, your single ticket covers all your commutes between the city’s major attractions
Engaging audio commentary
Enhance your sightseeing experience with pre-recorded audio guides available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and Russian. There’s even a special commentary for kids, packed with fun facts and stories about the city’s landmarks. Be sure to check your tickets for more details on these features.
Highlights of Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress and a key part of Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you’ll find the One O'clock Gun, the mighty Mons Meg cannon, and the Crown Jewels of Scotland. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city and a deep dive into Scotland’s royal history.
Grassmarket
Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, Grassmarket is a vibrant historic marketplace. Known for its independent merchants, artisans, and designers, it’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts, clothing, and homeware. The area also offers a lively atmosphere with an array of pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
Royal Mile
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is the city’s most famous street. This historic thoroughfare is lined with parliaments, courts, cathedrals, and other visitor attractions, making it a must-see on your tour.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht that served the British monarchy from 1954 to 1997. Now a floating museum, this majestic ship offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal family's life at sea.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and has been home to Scottish royalty for centuries. Explore the stunning state apartments and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and learn about the palace's rich history.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Founded in 1670, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a haven for plant lovers. It boasts one of the largest and richest plant collections in the world, originally established as a physic garden to grow medicinal plants. Stroll through its beautiful landscapes and marvel at its botanical diversity.
Old Town
Edinburgh’s Old Town is a living relic of medieval times and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow alleys, visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, and soak in the rich history that dates back centuries.
Edinburgh Dungeon
For those who enjoy a thrill, the Edinburgh Dungeon offers a multisensory, immersive experience that delves into the city’s darkest history. This underground attraction combines live actors, special effects, and interactive elements to bring Edinburgh's grisly past to life.
Guidelines and tips
- Understand your ticket options: Before you start your journey, make sure you know exactly what your ticket includes. Many Hop-On Hop-Off operators in Edinburgh offer various ticket types. Some may cover all available routes, while others might come with added perks like a boat ride or a guided walking tour. Review your ticket details to make the most of your experience.
- Plan your route ahead of time: Familiarize yourself with the bus routes and stops before setting out. Tour operators provide maps of their routes, which will help you identify which stops are near the attractions you want to visit. Knowing this in advance allows you to make the most of your time and ensures you don’t miss any must-see sights.
- Time your visits wisely: If you plan to explore any attractions along the bus route, check how long each visit will take and when the next bus is scheduled to arrive. This will help you avoid long waits and ensure you stay on track with your itinerary.
- Purchase attraction tickets in advance: Many of Edinburgh’s popular attractions require entry tickets, which can lead to long queues. To save time and avoid the hassle, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets online in advance.
- Avoid peak traffic times: Edinburgh can get particularly busy on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, especially between 2 pm and 7 pm. To avoid traffic delays, plan your Hop-On Hop-Off journey outside these peak hours.
- Consider taking a full loop first: If you have the time, it’s worth doing a full loop of the bus tour without hopping on or off initially. This approach gives you a comprehensive overview of Edinburgh, allowing you to enjoy the ride from a prime seat with a great view. Once you’ve completed the loop, you can decide where you’d like to explore in more detail.
FAQs
Ticket prices for Edinburgh's Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus tours start at around €18. For added value, you can also upgrade your ticket to include discounted entry to select Edinburgh attractions.
Hop-On Hop-Off buses offer a flexible way to explore the city. You can board or disembark at any designated stop along the route, allowing you to visit major landmarks at your own pace.
These buses operate from morning to evening with a typical frequency of every 15 minutes. For specific timings, it’s best to refer to your ticket or check with the operator.
Yes, multi-lingual audio guides are available on Edinburgh's Hop-On Hop-Off buses. Languages include English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and Russian, providing an informative experience for a global audience.
Absolutely! Edinburgh’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring they are wheelchair-friendly.
