City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the historic and vibrant city of Edinburgh in your own time, with an award-winning unlimited 24 hour hop-on hop-off bus tour. From the open-top deck you’ll have a fantastic 360 degree view of the spectacular surroundings, which are a blend of stunning natural beauty, and wonderfully historic architecture. This Scottish sightseeing adventure will take you to all of Edinburgh's key points of interest, including Waverley Bridge, Grassmarket, Johnston Terrace, Old Town, Canongate, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Our Dynamic Earth and much more! There's also an informative audio tour commentary on the double-decker bus, so you can make sense of the fabulous sights you're experiencing. With access to 14 stops around the city, and the ability to hop on and off the bus as much as you please within the given time period, you can truly immerse yourself into the culture of this charming destination.
Available options
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free
What's included
24 hour hop-on hop-off bus tour
Vouchers valid for 12 months from travel date selected at check-out
KIDS GO FREE - Up to 3 children travel for free with every full paying adult
Multilingual audio commentary in 9 languages + free headphones & kids commentary!
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entry to attractions
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
RU
PT
CMN
JA
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
1,407 reviews
5★
819
4★
324
3★
141
2★
50
1★
73
Tripadvisor
4.4
1,258 reviews
5★
810
4★
292
3★
79
2★
33
1★
44
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Visit Scotland 5 star award-winning tour and Gold Green Tourism award winner
First departure from Stop 1 at 8:55am
Last departure from Stop 1 at 3:55pm
Buses run every 20 minutes
Tour duration without hopping off is 70 minutes
Mobile and printed paper vouchers are both accepted on this tour and can be redeemed at any of the stops along the route
Vouchers are valid for 12 months from travel date selected at check-out
Kids go free! Up to 3 kids can travel for free per adult ticket. Child tickets must be added to basket when purchasing tickets. Valid for travel before 31st March 2026
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
Friday 28th November: Please note that Stops 4 and 5 are out of use today
Important notes
• You must present a printed or electronic voucher to board this tour.
• Vouchers can be redeemed at any of the tour stops along the route.
• With your voucher, enjoy flexible access for up to 12 months from the travel date you select at check-out.
• Tour start point - first bus stop is at Waterloo Place which is on the edge of Princess street, but you can join at any of the 14 stops.
Kids go free! Up to 3 kids can travel for free per adult ticket. Child tickets must be added to basket when purchasing tickets. Valid for travel before 31st March 2026
About Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Historical
2-3 hours
£18 (adult), £11 (child)
Royal Mile
A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Several hours to explore fully
Free to walk, attractions vary
Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours (hike)
Free
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.
Historical
2 hours
£19 (adult), £10 (child)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan.
Scotch Pie
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.
Snack
Contains meat.
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Irn-Bru
Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.
Drink
Contains caffeine and sugar.
Popular Activities
Hiking Arthur's Seat
Kayaking on the Water of Leith
Cycling the National Cycle Network
Afternoon tea at The Dome
Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden
Strolling along Princes Street Gardens
Exploring the National Museum of Scotland
Visiting the Scottish National Gallery
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket
By bus
Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
New Town
Leith
Day trips
Lothian
10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day
Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Fife
30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day
Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.
Stirling
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.
Festivals
Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August
Edinburgh International Festival • August
Hogmanay • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
- Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
- Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
- Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
- Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
