Discover why the Hop-on Hop-off tour is Edinburgh's favorite sightseeing experience

Edinburgh's winding streets and historic landmarks are best explored in your own time. Hop-on Hop-off tours are the best way to cover the highlights of the city without worrying too much about the logistics. These trips make it possible for you to visit sites you love most by stopping at them momentarily and taking you back on board as soon as you wish. The different routing options allow for easy shifting from the medieval character of the Old Town into New Town’s fine avenues. Furthermore, there are audio guides on these buses that will brief the visitors about interesting facts and help them get more acquainted with some of the locations’ history or their respective cultural significance.

Why choose Hop-on Hop-off tours in Edinburgh?

Explore top attractions

Picture yourself getting down right in front of Edinburgh Castle, then strolling down the Royal Mile, a street steeped in centuries of tradition. Hop-on Hop-off buses let you do exactly that, offering the flexibility to discover the city on your terms. With stops near every major attraction, you can hop off wherever you like and hop back on when you're ready to go to the next stop.

Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tours Sightseeing

Sightseeing made easy

Hop-on Hop-off buses promise you a ride with a view—plus they give you a view into the rich history of Edinburgh that makes the city come to life. Listen to the audio guide or live commentary to learn more about the stories, myths, and lesser-known spots as you go. And with the open-top deck, you'll be able to enjoy the added bonus of Edinburgh's skyline.

Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tours Inclusions

Great inclusions

The Hop-on Hop-off tours enhance your Edinburgh experience with a host of added perks. Various multilingual audio guides tell you all about the city's history, discounts at top attractions and eateries, and even free walking tours. Plus, many buses also offer free Wi-Fi and activity packs, making the trip both educational and fun.

Value for money

With unlimited rides, access to multiple routes, and informative audio guides, Hop-on Hop-off buses provide excellent value. Instead of dealing with the logistics of traveling between attractions, you can just relax and let the bus take you wherever you want to go. And with free tickets for kids available on many tours, it's a budget-friendly option for families.

Hidden gems on your Hop-on Hop-off Edinburgh tour

Dean Village

A short trip from the city center takes you to Dean Village, a quiet, charming spot with cute cottages and the tranquil Water of Leith. It's an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the ideal place for a peaceful walk.

The Museum of Edinburgh

The Museum of Edinburgh, located on the Royal Mile, displays an impressive array of historical items. Explore the compelling stories and rare artifacts that offer a deeper insight into the rich past and cultural heritage of Edinburgh.

Georgian House, Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, Scotland

The Georgian House

In the trendy New Town, the Georgian House gives you a taste of 18th-century Edinburgh life. The well-preserved house, with its exquisite period furnishings and decor, captures the elegance and opulence of the era.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Not far from Grassmarket, you'll find this old cemetery known as Greyfriars Kirkyard. It is famous for its ghostly reputation and the legend of Greyfriars Bobby. It also offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh's past, with its interesting tombstones and eerie atmosphere that adds a touch of the supernatural.

Tips to making the most of your Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tour

Take a full loop first: Start by completing the entire Hop-on Hop-off bus route to get a snapshot of Edinburgh. This will help you identify which stops you might want to visit later. The full loop typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, so you can use it to map out the destinations.
Look for special deals: Look for days when attractions offer free entry or discounted rates. Many museums and other historical sites have special deals, so planning your visit around these days can help you save your money.
Plan your stops: Maximize your time by picking out the key attractions you want to visit beforehand. With so much to see in Edinburgh, having a plan in place will help you cover everything on your must-see list.
Go at your own pace: Take your time while exploring Edinburgh. Spend as much time as you want on each stop. If you would like a more leisurely experience, grab a multi-day pass for a more extended visit.
Use walking tours: Many Hop-On Hop-Off tours offer self-guided walking tours. These can help you explore the areas that interest you the most and get a closer look at Edinburgh’s unique spots.
Sit on the top deck: For the best views, sit on the open-air top deck of the bus. This gives you a great look at Edinburgh’s landmarks and streets. Just remember, the top deck is best when the weather is good.

Lesser known details about the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tour

Family-friendly perks: Kids aged 15 and under can travel for free with a 24-hour ticket, making the hop-on hop-off bus a great choice for families. Strollers and well-behaved pets are also welcome aboard, adding to the convenience for those traveling with young children or furry friends.
Discounted attractions: Some hop-on hop-off tickets offer discounts on entry to popular attractions, providing extra value for your sightseeing experience. Keep an eye out for these deals to make the most of your visit to Edinburgh's top spots.
Accessibility features: The buses are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring low-floor ramps and space for mobility scooters (when folded). Each bus can only accommodate one wheelchair at a time, so you might need to wait for the next bus if the space is already in use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tour good for a short visit?

Absolutely! The Hop-on Hop-off bus covers all the key attractions in a short amount of time, making it perfect for visitors on a tight schedule.

What if I only want to visit a couple of attractions?

If your plan is to spend most of your day at just one or two attractions, you might prefer using local transport or a taxi. However, the Hop-on Hop-off bus is ideal if you want to get a broad overview of the city.

Is the Hop-on Hop-off bus accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, most Hop-on Hop-off buses in Edinburgh are wheelchair accessible. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the provider for specific accessibility details.

Can I bring my dog on the Hop-on Hop-off bus?

Yes, small and well-behaved dogs are welcome on board. So, you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind while you explore the city!

Are there any discounts available?

Some Hop-on Hop-off services offer discounts at various attractions and eateries. It’s worth checking when you book your ticket to see what perks you can enjoy.