THE 5 BEST Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Hop-on hop-off tours in edinburgh.

  • Cultural Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Multi-day Tours
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Traditional)
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

best bus tours edinburgh

1. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

2. Royal Edinburgh Ticket - Hop-On Hop-Off and Attraction Admissions

best bus tours edinburgh

3. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

4. Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City and Britannia Joint Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

5. Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Britannia Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

best bus tours edinburgh

Oban, Glencoe, Highlands Lochs & Castles Small Group Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles & Highland Tour starting Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Cruise Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour from Glasgow Including Cruise

best bus tours edinburgh

Gothic Glasgow Walking Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Street Art Daily Walking Tour: 2pm

best bus tours edinburgh

Gander Walking Tours in Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours

best bus tours edinburgh

Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure - Winter Edition from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Isle of Skye, The Highlands and Loch Ness - 3 Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Lomond, the Trossachs and Stirling Castle from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow City and Clyde Bridges Bike Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Guided Tour with Waterfalls Walk starting Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Private Self-Guided Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

One Day West Highland Way Hiking Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Private Tour of Highlands, Oban, Glencoe, Lochs & Castles from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Fun Bike Tour in Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

3 Hours Private City Glasgow Walking Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Find a hidden Glen in Scotland's woods

best bus tours edinburgh

Made in Dundee: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What travelers are saying.

Marilyn H

  • City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
  • Royal Edinburgh Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Tours, Edinburgh Castle Admission
  • Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour
  • Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City and Britannia Joint Tour
  • Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Britannia Tour
  • Vox City International Ltd
  • Bright Bus Tours
  • City Sightseeing Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh Hop on Hop Off Tours

girl gone london

9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh in 2024 (local approved)

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Located near the coast of Scotland, Edinburgh promises unique sightseeing opportunities and Edinburgh bus tour options.

You might know that Scotland is famous for haggis, kilts, and Irn-Bru, but did you know that it’s also the home of the Writer’s Museum, the Museum of Childhood, and the Museum of Fire?

Whether you’re into the spookier side of things, or simply want to relax with afternoon tea, there’s a bus tour option in Edinburgh to suit every kind of tourist.

Opt for a regimented Edinburgh sightseeing bus tour or hop-on and hop-off Edinburgh bus at your leisure – the choice is yours.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, don’t worry: the best Edinburgh bus tour is this Edinburgh afternoon tea bus tour .

Here we’ve compiled a list of the nine best bus tours in the city, including Edinburgh open top bus tours and Edinburgh city bus tours.

Read on to find your fit and book a tour today.

Don’t forget that Edinburgh is the UK’s second-most visited tourist destination and so booking bus tours and experiences in advance is highly recommended. 

best bus tours edinburgh

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Edinburgh bus tour is this Edinburgh afternoon tea bus tour.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Edinburgh Bus Tours

1. edinburgh afternoon tea bus experience.

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 670+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

  • Handmade sandwich selections
  • Dine on home-baked warm scones with cream, jam, and strawberry garnish
  • Drink coffee and tea
  • Enjoy delicious cupcakes

The Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience is a fantastic choice for non-British natives to sample the quintessential British way of life.

If you’re British, it’s a great gift for non-British family and friends – to show off what Britain is best at: scones and cups of tea.  

Atop a vintage Routemaster bus, you’ll take in the sights of Scotland’s second-biggest city.

Expect to see Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish Parliament building, and Holyrood Palace.

Included in the tour is a selection of tasty food and drink that’s so British, you’ll be surprised that King Charles isn’t joining you onboard.

Sample scones and sandwiches, all washed down with cups of tea. 

The accommodating staff allow you to take pictures and will stop the bus to make sure you can get the best possible snaps of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

If you want a bus tour with an entertaining and quirky experience thrown in, this is the tour for you.

2. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 220+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 10 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Free headphones to keep
  • Free return bus tickets to Edinburgh Zoo on the company’s local services
  • Sightseeing of significant cultural landmarks
  • A flexible way to explore the city

Picture the scene.

You’re sat on a bus tour and spot something you find interesting.

You ask if the bus can stop so you can get off and explore, but the driver informs you that it’s not that kind of bus tour.

Luckily, you won’t have that problem with the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour.

You can ride the bus as much or as little as you want to.

Stops are very close together, meaning that if you see something you like you can simply hop off at the next available opportunity.

We recommend stopping off at the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market – an opportunity to meet friendly Scottish people as you sample local food and drink.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is also on the route, promising a look inside the whisky-making process.

If you’re planning to stay on the bus for the whole route, and see the sights from inside, don’t forget to pack lunch to make your journey extra cozy.

3. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

  • Ride on a vintage double-decker bus
  • A spooky bus tour with descriptions of Edinburgh’s past
  • A professional guide
  • A chance to see Edinburgh’s historic attractions

This tour is not for the easily spooked.

Onboard, you’ll discover the twisted secrets of Edinburgh’s dark past. 

Safely behind the windows of the bus, you’ll hear the stories of lost spirits, shocking tortures, and bloody murders as you pass significant landmarks.

You’ll pass by Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirk, Grassmarket, and more.

Did we mention you’ll have to get off the bus sometimes to get up close to the grizzly action? Prepare to be frightened. 

Your knowledgeable guide will have you sitting on the edge of your seat as they delve into stories of ghosts and witches. 

You’ll need to take a long walk afterward to clear your head.

Just make sure you don’t walk near the historic sites where misery befell ancient Scots. 

Being such a quirky experience, it’s incredibly popular – and so it’s advised you book ahead to avoid missing out. 

4. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

  • 24-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off bus pass
  • Audio commentary in 10 languages
  • Commentary option for kids
  • Discounts at local attractions

Looking for a bus tour that allows you to set your own pace?

The City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is the perfect tour for you.

The joy with this service is that you can hop-on and hop-off as much as you like during a 24-hour time window.

There are 13 stops in total which pass dozens of interesting places. When you choose to hop off and explore is up to you.

Art lovers will adore the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and history buffs will marvel at the grand Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The National Museum of Scotland promises something for everyone with exciting events and exhibitions happening throughout the year.

Still not sure?

Don’t take our word for it.

The City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a 5-star award-winning tour and Gold Green Tourism award winner.

5. Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Britannia Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 250+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Comprehensive audio description of the sights
  • Stops including the Royal Botanic Garden 
  • Flexible travel

This tour is the perfect choice if you’re looking to cram as much into your Edinburgh visit as possible.

The route is only 1 hour 30 minutes, meaning you can see dozens of famous Scottish landmarks in a short space of time.

Alternatively, you can hop off to take a closer look at your favorite places, knowing you can hop back on at any time.

One of two services run by the same operator, this route includes the Royal Botanic Garden, the Gallery of Modern Art, and Edinburgh Castle.

Every passenger is gifted a pair of headphones to listen to audio commentary about the locations they can see from the window. 

While not passing the Royal Yacht Britannia, you can get off the bus at Ocean Terminal which is just a one-minute walk away.

6. Edinburgh: Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe Day Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.7 out of 5 Stars, 380+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

  • Spot the iconic Edinburgh Castle
  • See the bridge used by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movie franchise
  • Drive through the Scottish Highland where the 007 movie Skyfall was filmed
  • See Ben Nevis – Britain’s tallest mountain

Hoping to experience Edinburgh as part of a bigger day out?

You’re in luck!

The Edinburgh: Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe Day Tour delivers spectacular views across Scotland.

Movie fans will love what’s in store.

You’ll journey through the Scottish Highlands and see where they filmed scenes from the James Bond movie Skyfall. 

You’ll also be able to snap pictures of the incredible bridge used by the Hogwarts Express throughout the Harry Potter movie series.

Do you remember the scene where the flying car is driving alongside the Hogwarts Express?

That was filmed here, and it’s even more beautiful in real life.

A lunch stop at Ben Nevis allows you to grab a bite to eat and stretch your legs, before hopping back on the bus.

Fans of Edinburgh needn’t worry.

4You’ll be departing from and arriving back into the city, with plenty of sightseeing opportunities en route including Edinburgh Castle. 

7. Hadrian’s Wall & Roman Britain 1-Day Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars, 190+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

  • Entry to the Vindolanda Roman Army Museum
  • Round-trip transportation from Edinburgh
  • An informed guide with expansive knowledge about Roman Scotland
  • Take pictures of Hadrian’s Wall

You’ve heard of the phrase ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’, but have you ever heard of the phrase ‘when in Scotland, do as the Romans do’?

We neither, but you’d be amazed to discover just how much Roman history there is in Scotland.

Between the 1st and 4th centuries AD, the Romans were in Scotland. Evidence of that relationship remains in spectacular landmarks such as Birdoswald – one of the best-preserved Roman forts in the world.  

If you’re a fan of ancient civilizations or know someone who is, we couldn’t recommend this tour more highly.

Your bus driver and tour guide are well-read on Roman history and are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

8. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Scottish Highlands Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.7 out of 5 Stars, 3660+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh

  • Option to add a Loch Ness boat cruise
  • Live onboard commentary from an expert guide
  • An air-conditioned bus to transport you between locations
  • Opportunity to take pictures of beautiful Scottish scenery

Hoping to join the famous list of people who have seen the Loch Ness Monster?

Then this tour is for you.

Traveling on an eco-certified bus, expect to learn all about the history of the Loch Ness Monster (or Nessie as the locals affectionately say) that stalks the Scottish waters.

You’ll also see some unique-looking hairy cows and take pictures of stunning mountainous regions.

To take your visit to the next level, why not book a Loch Ness boat cruise?

Maybe you’ll see Nessie up close, or at the very least enjoy the tranquil stillness of the world’s most famous loch.

If mysterious creatures lurking in the water is too far-fetched for you, you’ll enjoy the optional extra of Urquhart Castle – a ruined fort along the banks of the loch.

The castle is steeped in history. In fact, it was a significant spot in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

You’ll have time to explore the loch and surrounding areas before heading back to Edinburgh and passing many tourist attractions.

9. Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle & Dunfermline Abbey Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars, 100+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

best bus tours edinburgh

  • Learn about Scotland’s ancient history
  • Explore Stirling Castle
  • Unlock the secrets of the Da Vinci Code.
  • See where Robert the Bruce battled the English in 1314

History fanatics, rejoice!

The Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle & Dunfermline Abbey Tour is perfect for you.

It offers a full day to explore Scotland’s most famous medieval landmarks.

You’ll spend most of the day outside of Edinburgh, but be sure to look out of the bus windows as you leave and arrive back to take in the sights and add some locations to your bucket list.

In Dunfermline, you’ll find the final resting place of Robert the Bruce before moving to Stirlingshire and learning about William Wallace. 

If you’ve read the Da Vinci Code novel, then you know the theory that Rosslyn Chapel is where the Holy Grail is buried.

Whether that’s true or not no one knows, but we like to think so.

You’ll visit Rosslyn Chapel as part of this tour.

Be sure to take in the sheer history that has existed in this place since it was built in 1446.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

  • 11 Best Cotswolds Tours from London in 2023
  • 11 Best Scottish Highlands Tours from Edinburgh in 2023
  • 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
  • 9 Best Outlander Tours in Scotland in 2023
  • 9 Best Oxford Ghost Tours in 2023
  • 5 Best Ghost Tours in Bath, England
  • 9 Unique London Tours
  • 9 Best Day Tours to Oxford from London
  • 7 Best Stonehenge Tours from London
  • 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
  • 5 Best Tours of York, England
  • 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
  • 21 Best London Walking Tours
  • 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
  • 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Museum Tours
  • 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
  • 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
  • 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
  • 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
  • 9 Best London Literary Tours
  • 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
  • 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
  • 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
  • 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
  • 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
  • 17 Best London Foodie Tours
  • 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
  • 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
  • 11 Best Private Tours in London
  • 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
  • 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
  • 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
  • 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
  • 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
  • 7 Best Paris Tours from London
  • 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
  • 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
  • 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
  • 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

best bus tours edinburgh

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

best bus tours edinburgh

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best bus tours edinburgh

The Edinburgh Bright Bus Tour

SCOTLAND’S OFFICIAL OPEN TOP TOUR AND AIRPORT CONNECTION

BUY TICKETS

Welcome to the brightest way to enjoy Edinburgh

We’ve got two Hop-On, Hop-Off open top bus tours – the City Tour or Britannia Tour – to take you to all the sights of Scotland’s capital city. You’ll be able to enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer from just £16 for 24 hours or £20 for two tours across two days . There’s commentary to suit all tastes, with 10 languages available.

BrightBus Airport Express  is the fastest, cheapest, brightest way between the city and airport. With fares starting from  £4 single  and  £15 a week , our comfy buses run up to every 10 mins at busy times from a choice of handy pick-up points across the city centre.

What you’ll see on our tours

Our  City Tour  takes you around the hustle and bustle of the historic city centre and winding around the cobbled streets of Old Town. You’ll discover all the secrets of ‘Auld Reekie’, its’ world class sights and its’ people.

Switch over to our  Britannia Tour  to experience royalty, visit Leith’s shore, see The Majestic Royal Yacht Britannia and more.

Our best selling combo tickets mean you can buy Two Tours across two days for just  £20 , or you can combine a Airport Express return journey with unlimited travel on our tours with the Experience Edinburgh ticket for £25 for a whole week !

Airport to Edinburgh

Cheapest, fastest, brightest way to and from Edinburgh Airport

Travelling from Edinburgh airport and into the city has never been brighter. The BrightBus Airport Express is a fast and convenient way to travel between the Airport and the city centre. It has fewer stops and convenient pick-up points, reducing the need for walking in the city centre.  Find out more here!

Our BrightBus team

Our friendly BrightBus team are always here to help you. From tickets to advice and top tips, they’re easy to find and even easier to talk to! Once aboard one of our tour and airport buses, all you need to do is sit back and relax until you’re ready to delve into the nooks and crannies of this great city. Exploring Edinburgh has never been simpler!

BrightBus Biggest Little Bus Fan

Do you know any little people who love our buses and what we do? We’re on the hunt to find our Biggest Little Bus Fan .

TripAdvisor

THE 5 BEST Hop-On Hop-Off Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland

Hop-on hop-off tours in edinburgh.

  • Cultural Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Multi-day Tours
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Traditional)
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

best bus tours edinburgh

1. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

2. Royal Edinburgh Ticket - Hop-On Hop-Off and Attraction Admissions

best bus tours edinburgh

3. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

4. Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City and Britannia Joint Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

5. Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Britannia Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

best bus tours edinburgh

Oban, Glencoe, Highlands Lochs & Castles Small Group Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles & Highland Tour starting Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Cruise Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour from Glasgow Including Cruise

best bus tours edinburgh

Gothic Glasgow Walking Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Street Art Daily Walking Tour: 2pm

best bus tours edinburgh

Gander Walking Tours in Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours

best bus tours edinburgh

Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure - Winter Edition from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Isle of Skye, The Highlands and Loch Ness - 3 Day Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Loch Lomond, the Trossachs and Stirling Castle from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow City and Clyde Bridges Bike Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Guided Tour with Waterfalls Walk starting Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Glasgow Private Self-Guided Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

One Day West Highland Way Hiking Tour from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Private Tour of Highlands, Oban, Glencoe, Lochs & Castles from Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

Fun Bike Tour in Glasgow

best bus tours edinburgh

3 Hours Private City Glasgow Walking Tour

best bus tours edinburgh

Find a hidden Glen in Scotland's woods

best bus tours edinburgh

Made in Dundee: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What travellers are saying.

Marilyn H

  • City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
  • Royal Edinburgh Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Tours, Edinburgh Castle Admission
  • Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off City Tour
  • Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City and Britannia Joint Tour
  • Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Britannia Tour
  • Vox City International Ltd
  • Bright Bus Tours
  • City Sightseeing Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh Hop on Hop Off Tours

Scotland Bucket List Logo

15 Best Tours in Edinburgh [2024]

Boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most iconic castles on earth, elegant Georgian architecture and much more, the Scottish capital surely belongs on everyone’s bucket list. If you want to discover this enchanting city, then booking the best tours in Edinburgh is an easy and enjoyable way to do exactly that. 

This guide to the best Edinburgh tours is here to help you choose which tours you should take. From foodie or whisky tasting experiences to spooky, Harry Potter and hop-on hop-off tours, there really is so much scope in this stunning city. 

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Fast-Track Guided Tour in English

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 1.5 hours

Booking an Edinburgh castle tour can really help you make the most of visiting this famous location. I t also includes skip-the-line entry to save you precious time . 

The experience commences with a walk up the Royal Mile, before taking your guided tour of the famous fortress. This includes explanations of the castle dungeons, the iconic one o’clock gun salute and the Argyle Battery. 

→ Click here to check prices and availability

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐| Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If the best underground tour in Edinburgh is what you want to find, check out this spooky tour of the city’s ancient underground vaults. It’s said that ghosts lurk here beneath the Old Town, and during the one hour tour your guide will regale you with gory tales about witchcraft and historic murders in the area.

Exploring the South Bridge vaults puts an entirely new spin on things, so don’t miss this if you want to see a different side to this elegant city!

Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

Another of the more quirky Edinburgh tours is this Dark Side walking tour. Expect to hear all about Burke and Hare, the city’s most notorious murderers, as well as the trials and even burnings that witches once endured. The practices of grave robbing and body snatching, plus stories of real life vampires and cannibals, are also discussed.

Sites visited during the tour include narrow, twisting alleyways, Calton Hill, the Old Calton Burial Ground, one of Edinburgh’s chilling cemeteries or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery. The tour finishes at a local pub near the Royal Mile where you can purchase a beverage to steady your nerves!

Edinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If all that after-dark activity sounds a little too gruesome for your tastes, then the best ghost tour in Edinburgh to book might be a more light-hearted comedy horror trip. Your conductor will share tales of ghosts, murder, grave robbings and victims of the plague as you ride around town.

The tour takes you through both the ancient Old Town and the Georgian New Town. It all takes place aboard a restored and black-painted vintage double decker bus. This was the sole survivor of the Necropolis Bus Company fleet, following a rather mysterious 1967 fire. This is a fun, light-hearted tour and a perfect option if you’re travelling with teenagers!

Edinburgh: Old Town History and Tales Walking Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This highly rated city tour of Edinburgh allows you to truly explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the safe hands of your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll stroll along the twisting streets of the historic Old Town.

Expect to be enjoyably entertained throughout this tour, as your guide shares all the stories you’ll want to hear about the Scottish capital. Sights to see include the old pubs of Grassmarket, places that inspired J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, St. Giles Cathedral and more. 

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 2 hours

Should you be seeking fun Edinburgh tours for the whole family, this Harry Potter locations tour could be spot-on. As well as sites associated with the books and movies about the boy wizard, you’ll also visit key Edinburgh landmarks such as Princes Street, the Old Town and the castle.

J. K. Rowling wrote much of the books in Edinburgh, and during the tour you’ll see sights that inspired her works. These include the Castlehill graveyard that doubles as Voldemort’s final resting place, and winding lanes that Diagon Alley was based on. 

Edinburgh: JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 4.25 hours

Another contender as best walking tour in Edinburgh for a Harry Potter fan is this magical guided tour with Sam. Discover the many Edinburgh locations that inspired JK Rowling. You’ll also get the chance to find out which Hogwarts house you’d be placed in. As well as whether you’re a muggle, a squib or a pure-blood witch or wizard. 

It’s worth noting that this is a long tour lasting over 4 hours so if you’re short on time or prefer a shorter walking tour, check out the other Harry Potter tour listed above.

Edinburgh: Comedy Walking Tour with Professional Comedian

Rating: 4.9⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This walking tour led by a professional comedian has to be among the most entertaining tours in Edinburgh. Setting out from the Monkey Barrel Comedy Club in the Old Town, you’ll learn all sorts of fun local facts and trivia during the two hour walk.

Expect some swearing, adult humour and a strong Scottish accent from your guide, which is why this tour is intended for over-16s only. If you want to know why the gun salute takes place every day at one o’clock or other city facts, this could be your chance to find out. This recent review says it all:

“BEST SIGHTSEEING TOUR EVER! Seriously guys, if you’re thinking about booking any of the walking tours through Edinburgh, THIS ONE is the one to go for! Daniel is not only incredibly funny, but also really knows his Scottish History!”

Edinburgh: 24-Hour Family-Friendly Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Validity: 1 day

As with many cities across the world, some of the best tours of Edinburgh are jump-on, jump-off bus tours where you can travel when you please. This one is especially family friendly, and tickets are valid for 24 hours. 

With stunning city views throughout, this tour allows you to see places like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, the New Town, Castle Rock and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. You can hop off whenever you like to explore further, before boarding another bus to take you somewhere else. 

Edinburgh: Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Validity: 2 days

Royal Edinburgh is the focus for this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Tickets include three fast-track entrance tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle as well as flexible transport for up to 48 hours.

To simplify things even further, your pass includes use of buses operated by three different hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies. These are Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and Edinburgh City Sightseeing.

Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

You simply cannot come to Edinburgh as an adult without sampling the famous Scottish tipple! This whisky tasting and tour allows you to do exactly that. Your guide will also teach you about the five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Comprising close to 3,500 bottles, one of the largest whisky collections on the planet also forms part of this tour. Single malt and blended whisky tastings are also included, and you’ll also get a crystal tasting glass to keep as a souvenir. 

Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling

Another option for whisky lovers! If you’re looking for something to do in Edinburgh during the evening, how about this whisky tasting experience? It includes local history and folklore tales, so you can learn about the city while sipping for single malts.

The tour takes place on the atmospheric Royal Mile, after meeting your guide at the aptly-named Hot Toddy. With the whole of the first floor reserved for your group, there’s plenty of space to stretch out in while learning about Scottish whisky production. You’ll also sample four distinctive single malts from different distilling regions of Scotland. You can also choose to do the tour with no drinks included.

Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 3 hours

Whether you’re searching for unusual tours in Edinburgh because you’re a second-time visitor or because you really like to get under the skin of a city, this secret food tour can tick that box. Lasting for three hours, you’ll make half a dozen stops to sample Scottish delicacies.

Food and drinks to taste during the tour include haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed swede and potatoes), local cheeses, scones with butter and jam, gin and of course single malt whisky. The secret dish might also tickle your tastebuds. 

Edinburgh: Silent Disco Adventure Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If you want to experience Edinburgh in a truly unique way, then surely this Silent Disco tour is unbeatable! It’s not for shy and retiring types, though, as you’ll need to sing and dance your way through the city streets.

Moving through the historic Scottish capital to hits from several decades, you’ll pass lots of famous landmarks en route. It’s a different way to see the city, that’s for certain. 

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1.5 hours

A tour of Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium also provides visitors with something different to do while visiting the city. During the 90 minute experience you’ll discover how chocolate is produced, from South American cacao plantations to the finished bars available from Scottish chocolate makers.

You can even make your own chocolates, including the flavours of your choice, as part of the tour. Sampling Scottish and global chocolates is also included, with options ranging from chilli to whisky. I took my daughter here for something a little quirky to do together and we had such a fantastic time!

Whether you prefer the idea of dancing and singing your way through the streets, laughing until your sides split or visiting a Chocolatarium, we hope you’ve enjoyed discovering 15 of the finest Edinburgh city tours!

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Hop on Hop off Edinburgh Bus Tours

best bus tours edinburgh

Whenever we're offering one of our free Edinburgh walking tours, there's always a chance that we'll get asked about all the double decker buses driving through the city.

With that in mind, we created this post to cover each of the hop on hop off bus tours available in Edinburgh.

We provide details about locations included on each route, how to get tickets, how to save money on admission and more.

City Sightseeing

Bright bus tours.

  • Edinburgh Tour
  • Majestic Tour

Pros and Cons

Hop on hop off bus tours are a great way to learn a lot of details about Edinburgh.

In addition to the tour, you’ll also have the chance to jump off the bus at a variety of notable and historic landmarks throughout the city.

Although this service can be very useful, some travelers will get more out of a hop on hop off bus tour than others.

This is one of the most popular hop on hop off bus tour companies in the world, and it’s no surprise that they’ve made a name for themselves in Edinburgh.

Currently, they offer just one route and 14 total stops throughout the city, including landmarks such as Holyrood, Waverley Bridge, the John Knox House and much more.

No matter where you’re traveling from, chances are you’ll be able to understand their audio guide, as it is currently available in the following 9 languages:

English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Portuguese.

They also have a commentary designed specifically for kids!

Iconic Ticket Prices

  • 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
  • Access to the Red Route (14 stops)
  • £16/Adults | £15/Seniors & Students
  • Kids between the ages of 5-15 are FREE

NOTE: This tour is included with at least one tourist pass, and it is also part of a combo ticket. Check our deals section for more details.

Ultimate Ticket Prices

  • 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus
  • Entrance to Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • Entrance to Edinburgh Castle
  • Entrance to The Royal Yacht Britannia
  • £65/Adults | £60/Seniors & Students | £35/Children (5-15)
  • Kids under the age of 5 are FREE

Essential Ticket Prices

  • 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Glasgow Bus Tour
  • £32/Adults | £9/Children

Purchase tickets or learn more .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by City Sightseeing Worldwide (@citysightseeingworldwide)

With at least 7 hours to experience the full tour, you’ll have more than enough time to hop off and explore multiple sites at your leisure.

Once you’ve finished looking around, just jump back on and continue the tour!

Tickets are valid for a total of 3 months after purchase, giving you plenty of time to use them.

If you decide not to use your ticket, it can be returned for a full refund up to 24 hours before the chosen date of your tour.

If you’re looking for a somewhat more affordable option, this company offers some of the best prices for hop on hop off Edinburgh bus tours.

In addition to their competitive pricing, they also have a total of 16 stops in the city, including the Museum of Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace, Waverly Bridge, Johnston Terrace, The Mound and more.

Much like their competitors, Bright Bus Tours also provides its audio guide in the following 9 languages: English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Japanese, Russian and Chinese.

best bus tours edinburgh

Edinburgh Ticket Prices

  • £16/Adults | £14/Seniors & Students | £8/Children
  • Family Ticket (2 Adults + 3 Children): £32
  • Free for children under the age of 5

Britannia Ticket Prices

Edinburgh + Britannia Ticket Prices

  • £20/Adults | £18/Seniors & Students | £10/Children
  • Family Ticket (2 Adults + 3 Children): £40

NOTE: This hop on hop off bus tour is included with an Edinburgh tourist pass that you can use to save even more money. Check our deals section for more details.

This tour takes about 1 - 1 ½ hours to complete and tickets last from 9 am - 5 pm each day, giving you plenty of time to jump off and see several different locations in Edinburgh.

  • Edinburgh Bus Tour

As with their competitors, this company provides a very similar service of 14 stops throughout the city, and their prices are pretty much exactly the same as other hop-on-hop-off bus tours in Edinburgh.

This tour includes stops at such sites as Waverley Bridge, the John Knox House, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Dynamic Earth, Charlotte Square, and the Museum of Scotland.

best bus tours edinburgh

Unlike some of their competitors, customers can expect live guides to provide commentary in English.

If you’d rather stick to live commentary, this is one of the best options in Edinburgh.

They also offer access to all three of the other major bus tours, and this offer is accessible via both their 24 and 48 hr tickets.

24-Hour Ticket Prices

  • £22/Adults | £20/Seniors & Students
  • Free for children under the age of 15

48-Hour Ticket Prices

  • £26/Adults | £24/Seniors & Students | £13/Children

NOTE: This tour is included on at least one tourist pass and it’s also part of a combo package. Check our deals section for additional information.

The full tour is about 1 hour in length and they provide service from 9 am - 5:30 pm during the summer and 9 am - 4 pm in the winter.

With 7 hours to take a 60 minute tour, you should have a lot of time to stop at several notable locations and get a good look at quite a few landmarks in Edinburgh.

Tickets are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase when you buy them online. Once activated, they will be valid for that day.

  • Majestic Bus Tour

This is the one hop on hop off bus tour in Edinburgh that will take you North of the city centre to see several additional landmarks not included on other tours.

During this outing you’ll have the opportunity to see and learn about sites like the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Royal Botanic Garden, Scottish Parliament and more.

best bus tours edinburgh

This bus tour does not include live commentary, but the audio guide is available in the following languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Portuguese.

With only 13 stops on the Majestic bus tour, this is the least extensive service on our list, but it also provides transportation to and coverage of sites that aren’t available from any other hop on hop off bus tour.

Of course, if you're interested in some of the hop-on hop-off bus tours in Edinburgh, there's actually a Multi-Tour Ticket that includes admission to all of them for just £4 more!

Ticket Prices

Multi-Tour Tickets

  • £20/Adults | £19/Seniors & Students

This tour lasts for approximately 1 hour and it is available from 9 am - 6 pm during the summer and 9:30 am - 4:30 pm in the winter.

No matter when you visit Edinburgh, you should be able to stop off at multiple locations and get a good look at several popular landmarks during the 7 ½ - 9 hours you’ll have on this hop on hop off bus tour.

Your ticket will be valid for a total of 6 months, but once it is activated, you’ll only be able to use it on the date of activation. 

This section will cover each of the deals that are currently available for Edinburgh hop on hop off bus tours.

We’ll start off with combo packages and finish things off with details about tourist passes.

Grand 48 Combo

Although each Edinburgh hop on hop off bus tour is only available for 24 hours, there is one combo deal you can use to get a 48 hour bus ticket which includes admission to 3 of the 4 tours on this post.

best bus tours edinburgh

This combo package includes the following bus tours at one flat price for 2 days:

  • City Sightseeing Tour

There are a lot of advantages to purchasing one ticket which covers multiple bus tours, but the main benefits are that you can enjoy live commentary, audio guides in several languages, and coverage of popular royal landmarks in Edinburgh.

Grand 48 Combo Prices:

  • Family Ticket (2 Adults + 3 Children): £59
  • Free for children under the age of 5.
  • Purchase the Grand 48 Combo or learn more .

In addition to this option, there is also a Grand 48 + Combo Pass which includes an additional bus and boat tour which will take you to Queensferry and Inchcolm Island.

Royal Edinburgh Ticket

best bus tours edinburgh

This option includes a Grand 48 ticket in addition to the following popular activities and attractions:

  • Fast-track entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • Fast-track entrance to the Royal Yacht Britannia
  • Fast-track entrance to Edinburgh Castle

If you're interested in visiting these locations at some point during your trip to Edinburgh, this is an excellent way to save both time and money on tickets.

  • £69/Adults | £65/Seniors & Students | £36.50/Children
  • Purchase the Royal Edinburgh Ticket or learn more .

Tourist Passes

Every Edinburgh hop on hop off bus tour is included with at least one tourist pass, each one covering admission to several additional attractions or activities.

Most bus tours are only available through a prepackaged pass known as the Royal Edinburgh Ticket.

This ticket includes the Grand 48 combo package in addition to tickets for Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

If you’re more interested in Bright Bus Tours, the Edinburgh City Pass includes admission for this 24 hour hop on hop off service in addition to more than 20 popular attractions in the city.

Here are some of the more popular activities included with tourist passes in Edinburgh:

  • Edinburgh Castle | £19.50
  • The Royal Yacht Britannia | £17
  • Edinburgh Dungeon | £14
  • Butterfly and Insect World | £8
  • Scott Monument Museum | £8
  • Harry Potter Tour | £12
  • Forth of Firth Boat Tour | £15
  • Dynamic Earth | £16
  • Edinburgh Zoo | £20

Depending on which pass you choose and how you use it, you should be able to save at least 25% - 60% off general admission prices.

For more details, please read our post covering Edinburgh tourist passes .

If all else fails, you can also check websites such as Groupon to see if they are offering any deals for hop on hop off bus tours in Edinburgh.

In addition to the deals you can find on these sites, they also frequently offer additional promo phrases you can use to save an extra 10% - 20% off admission prices.

Before you purchase any tickets on these sites, make sure to check both the top and bottom of the page for coupons you can use to save even more money!

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Excellent Overview

If you’re looking for a tour that covers all the basics about the history of this city, taking a hop on hop off bus tour should do the trick. 

In addition to learning about Edinburgh, you’ll also get a good sense for where everything is located and how to get around with ease.

Simple to Use

You can start your tour at any of the included stops along the mapped routes and buses run quite frequently, making this a fairly easy service to use.

Even better, you can hop off at any of the designated stops, take as much time as you want to look around, and get back on the bus afterward!

Reasonable Prices

Edinburgh hop on hop off bus tours range from £10-£24 on average for adults and £6-£15 for kids, making this a fairly affordable activity.

Live Tour Guides

In addition to the audio guides that you can listen to on these outings, some hop on hop off bus tours also include live commentary from professional tour guides.

Even if this is a wise investment for most visitors, some travelers may find that a hop on hop off bus tour doesn’t provide enough value for them.

Here are some of the cons you should think about before making a purchase.

General Commentary

Although you can learn a lot of useful information by taking a hop on hop off bus tour, the details their guides provide are typically very general.

If you’re looking for a more detailed tour, this may not be the best option available in Edinburgh.

Not Very Efficient

While it’s nice that you can jump off and explore the city at your leisure, doing so also makes it difficult to finish your tour as quickly as possible.

If you’re looking for a faster and more efficient tour of Edinburgh, you may want to consider another alternative.

No Assigned Seating

Some fully guided bus tours include assigned seating, ensuring you’ll always have a place to sit.

Unfortunately, hop on hop off bus tours offer first-come, first-serve seating, so you never know which seat you’ll get!

If having a window seat or just being able to sit while riding from one site to the next is important to you, it might be necessary to consider another type of tour.

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About The Author

best bus tours edinburgh

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Edinburgh Bus Tours - official hop on-hop off guided tours

NEWHAVEN HARBOUR

Royal yacht britannia, inside the royal yacht britannia, scottish parliament, royal botanic garden, the royal yacht britannia, palace of holyroodhouse, majestic tour bus.

Choose Your Ticket

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29 October 2023 to 23 March 2024

24 march - 2 november, 3 november 2024 - 5 april 2025, edinburgh bus tours operates all year round.

The full tour lasts around an hour. Please note timetables are subject to change

Live Tour Times

Get directions to Waterloo Place

Tour description

The Majestic Tour heads north of Edinburgh's city centre towards the port of Leith with highlights including Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, The Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The 3 Bridges Tour departs from St Andrew Square in the City Center

Click to expand map

You can join this tour at any bus stop, and hop-on hop-off for the duration of your ticket.

Catch us on Majestic tour

The Majestic Tour features a multi-lingual commentary in 10  languages. Headphones are provided on the bus.  

list of languages included in the tour English Scot German French Portugese Spanish Italian Russian Japanese Chinese

All of our tour buses have ramped access. A Class 2 mobility scooter is welcome on board if a wheelchair accessible space is available. Please note that legally wheelchair users have priority over the use of these spaces. Alternatively, Mobility Scooters can be folded and stored as luggage. Dogs, including assistance dogs, are welcome on all of our tour buses

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Royal Edinburgh Ticket

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Hop On Hop Off Moscow - Bus Tours

Enjoy Moscow sightseeing at your own pace and explore the dynamic Russian capital on value-for-money Moscow hop-on, hop-off tours. Explore the charming city on double-decker buses with multiple routes covering popular Moscow attractions. Enjoy marathon sightseeing and discover the city at your own pace on a fun and flexible City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off Moscow bus tour that takes you around the city while providing an informative commentary on the buses about the points of interest. So, what are you waiting for? Start booking!

Hop On Hop Off

We have been unable to find any activities that match your search. Please try again using alternative search criteria or call +1855­ 626­ 0117 where our travel experts are standing by ready to help you.

About Paris

Experience Moscow in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

The capital city of Russia, Moscow is home to the largest number of billionaires in the world. The city is the key political and socio-economic center of Russia and was named after the river Moskova. The city boasts a rich history spanning over eight centuries and is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites. Arbat street in Moscow is over 500 years old. With over 6 million passengers using the metro every day, Moscow’s metro is among the busiest in the world.

A hop-on hop-off Moscow bus tour aboard the double-decker buses is the easiest and most convenient way of sightseeing around this busy city. You can pick 48 hr ticket option to see the entire city at your own pace. The engaging commentary and complimentary walking tour work like icing on the cake. Make sure to book early and try an add-on boat tour to make the most of your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book a moscow hop-on hop-off tour.

March to May is the best time to plan a visit to Moscow. The days are long with significant sunshine which makes this time ideal for exploring the city. January is the coldest month so make sure to avoid it if you have a low tolerance for chilly weather. However, you will be able to score some good deals on airfare and accommodation during this time.

Q: How does it work?

Moscow bus tour offers you the convenience and flexibility to get off at the nearest designated stop. No tour guide, you set your own itinerary. You’ll find all the stops are located strategically at all the major attractions, making your touring as hassle-free as possible. And then, when you’re ready to continue, return to a designated bus stop, show your pass, and hop back on the bus and onwards towards your next attraction. So, go ahead and make a whole loop of the route once you have your tour ticket, get familiar with the city and pick out your favorite places to visit and then return to them during your stay.

Q: How many days are enough to explore Moscow?

We recommend at least two to three days to explore Moscow at a relaxed pace and cover most of its prominent attractions while enjoying shopping and local cuisine.

Q: What is the validity of the ticket?

There are several ticket options available to you, depending on your length of stay. Each bus tour will have validity from 24, 36, 48 to 72 hours. And the great thing is you can plan ahead as the vouchers are valid anywhere between 6 months to 1 year and can be used at any point during that period. Check the product page or bus tour operator for complete details.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Moscow hop-on hop-off tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops, and timings change frequently.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

  • New York City
  • San Francisco
  • Washington DC
  • Los Angeles
  • Johannesburg
  • San Antonio
  • Reykjavik Iceland
  • St-Petersburg
  • Benalmadena
  • Thessaloniki
  • Kristiansand
  • BUENOS AIRES
  • Hop On Hop Off Bus Offers and Deals

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best bus tours edinburgh

best bus tours edinburgh

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Hop On Hop Off in Moscow

City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

  • The Bus Tour offers unlimited 360° panoramic views of main sights of Moscow.
  • Access to audio-guide in 10 different languages which enables to know about Moscow’s history and traditions.
  • The three-bus tour routes and 40+ stops around Moscow completes the trip. Draw an itinerary to explore the city on your own.
  • There can be a boat tour and bus tour to enjoy panoramic views of Moskva River.
  • Smartphone Voucher Accepted. (No need to print)
  • 24 / 48-Hours Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
  • Red Line Audio Guide: Russian, English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Arabic, Portuguese, Farsi
  • Green Line Audio Guide: Russian, English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Arabic
  • Orange Line Audio Guide : Russian English, German, Spanish, Italian, French
  • Guided walking tour
  • Boat Tour (If option selected)
  • Red Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:00 , Loop: 60 Minutes, Frequency: 15 Minutes
  • Green Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:00 , Loop: 120 Minutes, Frequency: 30 Minutes
  • Orange Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:30 , Loop: 140 Minutes, Frequency: 30 Minutes

Wheelchair Access, Heating Please note that face masks must be worn on board the bus. Orange Route is temporarily suspended   

Operational Details: Walking Tour

  • Daily at 10:45 a.m.
  • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Meeting point: next to the monument to Saints Cyril and Methodius (Kitay-Gorod metro station)

Capital River Boat Tour

  • May - October: from 11:30am to 6:30pm (Subject to change)
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Departure Point: Zaryadye Park Pier

No Cancellation Charges  up to 24 hours before the chosen travel date. 100% cancellation fee applied within 24 hours of travel date.

Hop On Hop Off Moscow Bus Tours

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is the largest and the most populous city in the country. Present on the banks of the Moskva river, this city serves as the cosmopolitan hub of the country. Carrying  871 year old rich history, this city has played an integral part of Russia’s development and therefore plays an integral role in all the aspect. Majority of the population of Russia lives in Moscow, and the city is responsible as the scientific, historical, political and architectural hub in the region. Moscow is a blend of the old and new Russian culture. The Kremlin complex in the center of the city holds the cultural and historical values of the city. Moscow was also the capital and most important part of the USSR and thus holds many gems throughout the city from that era. Not only that, but the city also brags of timeless elements from the Tsars and other rulers who ever ruled Russia. Moscow has been a hub of many social ideologies and home to popular poets and artists. When in Moscow don’t miss out The Moscow Kremlin, the colorful St. Basil’s Cathedral, the symbolic center of Russia as the Red Square and Lenin's Mausoleum, which also serves as the resting place of Vladimir Lenin and his body has been preserved there since 1924.

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For groups of 12 or more, you may send us an inquiry at [email protected]. Although we do not guarantee bulk deals for all our tours, there are some tours for which we can offer discounted pricing. Ordinary hop-on-hop-off bus tickets are entitled to group savings. Attractions, pass items and combo tickets aren't.

Due the nature of this type of tour and varying demand, group travellers should be aware that there is no guarantee that the group will be able to travel altogether as the available seats vary from stop to stop and depends on demand each day. The group may need to split up and/or wait for the next bus(s).

As, we cannot guarantee that the group shall be able to travel together as one group, therefore we will reduce the group size down to 4-5 smaller groups per ticket (depending upon group size).

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  1. FOCUS TRANSPORT: Best Ever Year for Edinburgh Bus Tours

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  2. City Sightseeing: Edinburgh Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

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  3. City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Edinburgh

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  4. Edinburgh Open-Top Bus Tour With Commentary (Part One)

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  5. Edinburgh 24- or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Tickets 2022

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  6. Edinburgh Bus Tours

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VIDEO

  1. Buses Around Edinburgh

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  5. LET’S ENJOY THIS. SIGHTSEEING TOUR BUS IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

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COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Bus Tours (Updated 2024)

    2. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh. 1,007. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. Edinburgh is a long way from Loch Ness, Scotland's most famous lake—even Glen Coe is an almost 3-hour drive. Let your driver…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travelers.

  2. Edinburgh Bus Tours

    Edinburgh Bus Tours App; TourHub; Accessibility; About us; Careers; Buy Now; 0 - £ 0.00; Buy Now » Experience our five-star tours. Hop-on, Hop-off and discover the best of Edinburgh. Choose Your Ticket. Learn More. Choose Your Ticket. Learn More. Choose Your Ticket. Learn More. Choose Your Ticket. Learn More. Choose Your Ticket.

  3. THE 5 BEST Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

    Clear all filters. BEST SELLER. 1. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. 993. Audio Guides. 1 hour. An Edinburgh city sightseeing bus tour means you can enjoy all the benefits of a guided tour—including hassle-free transport…. Free cancellation.

  4. 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh in 2024 (local approved)

    Your bus driver and tour guide are well-read on Roman history and are on hand to answer any questions you may have. CHECK Tour Prices and Availability Here. 8. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Scottish Highlands Tour. RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars, 3660+ reviews | TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours 30 minutes | BOOK NOW.

  5. THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Bus Tours (w/Prices)

    The best Bus Tours in Edinburgh according to Viator travelers are: City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour. Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh. St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh.

  6. Edinburgh: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

    Highlights. Tour Edinburgh at your own pace with a 24-hour ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus. 3 Kids Go Free per paying Adult until 31st March 2024! Hop off at Edinburgh Castle and get great city views. Learn as you go with the informative on-board audio commentary. Keep the kids entertained with kid-friendly historical stories.

  7. Edinburgh Bus Tours

    US$ 19.92 per person. Instant confirmation E-Voucher. Bright Bus Edinburgh Combo: City Tour & Britannia Tour Hop-On, Hop-Off. from. US$ 24.90 per person. Instant confirmation E-Voucher. Edinburgh Majestic Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus. from. US$ 22.41 per person.

  8. Edinburgh Tour

    Best for: up to 48 hours and exploring Royal attractions. Find out more. Multi-tour tickets. Best for: Seeing more for less for up to 48 hours. ... Download the Edinburgh Bus Tours App for live bus times, information on discounts and attractions. Available free for iPhone and Android.

  9. City Sightseeing Edinburgh: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

    Key Highlights. Personalise your Edinburgh travels with this 24-hour hop-on, hop-off ticket. Hop on and off as you like to get up close with your favourite attractions. Kids go free with a full paying adult ticket. Offer valid for bookings with travel until March 31st 2024!

  10. The BEST Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tours 2024

    9. Edinburgh: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. Explore Edinburgh at your own pace with an award-winning hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour. Enjoy the onboard commentary that describes the history behind the city. Stop at locations like St Andrew Square, Johnstone Terrace, the Royal Mile. See sights like Edinburgh Castle and Grassmarket.

  11. Bright Bus Tours

    Welcome to the brightest way to enjoy Edinburgh. We've got two Hop-On, Hop-Off open top bus tours - the City Tour or Britannia Tour - to take you to all the sights of Scotland's capital city. You'll be able to enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer from just £16 for 24 hours or £20 for two tours across two days. There's commentary ...

  12. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tours with City Sightseeing

    1-day Glasgow hop-on hop-off bus tour. done. Stops near all the major sights in Edinburgh and Glasgow. done. Access to Red Route. done. Audio guide in 10 languages. From. $42.72.

  13. THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Bus Tours (Updated 2024)

    10. Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh. 1,522. Historical Tours. 6+ hours. Get acquainted with the must-see Scottish Highlands―home to Loch Ness, Cairngorms National Park, Urquhart Castle, and Glen…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 91% of travellers. £59.

  14. EDINBURGH BUS TOURS

    374. Historical Tours. 2 days. Personalize your Edinburgh sightseeing schedule with this hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket, which hits all the main city attractions…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 94% of travellers. from. £69. per adult.

  15. THE 5 BEST Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours (Updated 2024)

    We perform checks on reviews. BEST SELLER. 1. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. 994. Audio Guides. 1 hour. An Edinburgh city sightseeing bus tour means you can enjoy all the benefits of a guided tour—including hassle-free transport…. Free cancellation.

  16. 15 Best Tours in Edinburgh [2024]

    Rating: 4.8 | Price: $$ | Validity: 2 days. Royal Edinburgh is the focus for this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Tickets include three fast-track entrance tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle as well as flexible transport for up to 48 hours.

  17. Edinburgh Bus Tours

    The popular Royal Edinburgh Ticket bundle includes all three city tours PLUS guaranteed entry to Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Royal Yacht Britannia. The 3 Bridges Bus and Boat Tour (running April - October) heads out of the city with a half day tour to South Queensferry where you will board a 90-minute cruise of the Firth ...

  18. Which Hop On Hop Off Edinburgh Bus Tour is Best?

    Even better, you can hop off at any of the designated stops, take as much time as you want to look around, and get back on the bus afterward! Reasonable Prices. Edinburgh hop on hop off bus tours range from £10-£24 on average for adults and £6-£15 for kids, making this a fairly affordable activity. Live Tour Guides.

  19. Majestic Tour

    Best for: up to 48 hours and exploring Royal attractions. Find out more. Multi-tour tickets. Best for: Seeing more for less for up to 48 hours. ... Edinburgh Bus Tours operates all year round. The full tour lasts around an hour. Please note timetables are subject to change. Live Tour Times. ← Back to map.

  20. Things to Do, Tickets, Tours & Attractions

    Tours, things to do, sightseeing tours, day trips and more from Viator. Find and book city tours, helicopter tours, day trips, show tickets, sightseeing day tours, popular activities and things to do in hundreds of destinations worldwide, plus unbiased tour reviews and photos of tours and attractions from thousands of travelers

  21. Hop On Hop Off Moscow

    A hop-on hop-off Moscow bus tour aboard the double-decker buses is the easiest and most convenient way of sightseeing around this busy city. You can pick 48 hr ticket option to see the entire city at your own pace. The engaging commentary and complimentary walking tour work like icing on the cake. Make sure to book early and try an add-on boat ...

  22. City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

    The Bus Tour offers unlimited 360° panoramic views of main sights of Moscow. Access to audio-guide in 10 different languages which enables to know about Moscow's history and traditions. The three-bus tour routes and 40+ stops around Moscow completes the trip. Draw an itinerary to explore the city on your own.

  23. Hop On Hop Off Moscow Tours

    City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour. The Bus Tour offers unlimited 360° panoramic views of main sights of Moscow. Access to audio-guide in 10 different languages which enables to know about Moscow's history and traditions. The three-bus tour routes and 40+ stops around Moscow completes the trip.