Discover the best way to explore Edinburgh with Bright Bus Tours — Scotland’s official open-top bus tour! Our convenient hop-on, hop-off bus tours are flexible, cost-effective and fun. So you can enjoy the rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture of the Scottish capital at your own pace without breaking the bank.
Read on as we discuss the fantastic benefits of a hop-on, hop-off bus tour and how to spend a day in Edinburgh!
8 Reasons Why a Hop On, Hop Off Tour is the Best Way to See Edinburgh
Visiting Edinburgh is an experience like no other. And to truly explore all that the Scottish capital has to offer, hop-on hop-off tours are the perfect solution. Here are eight reasons why this type of tour is the best way to get around the city worry-free.
Enjoy Edinburgh on Your Own Terms
With Bright Bus Tours, you have the freedom to create your own Edinburgh itinerary and explore the city at your own pace. If you find yourself captivated by a particular attraction, feel free to linger a while longer. Or, if you’d prefer to skip certain stops, that’s entirely up to you. Our tours give you the control to tailor your Edinburgh experience according to your interests and schedule.
Whenever a sight catches your eye, simply hop off the bus and take your time to explore. And when you’re ready to continue your journey, just hop back on the next available bus — it’s that easy. This level of flexibility helps you make the most of your time in Edinburgh without feeling rushed or constrained by a rigid tour schedule or transport struggles.
Here are some top day trips you can make when you disembark our Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus:
Dive Into Scottish History at Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens, located in the centre of Edinburgh, offers history, beauty, and stunning views. The gardens are located in a valley between the Old Town and New Town, providing a lush green space for locals and visitors.
The Ross Fountain, a magnificent cast-iron structure, is a highlight of the gardens and offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle. Walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens, snap photos of the impressive fountain, and soak in the sunshine.
Book a Tour at Scotch Whisky Experience
No visit to Scotland is complete without sampling Scotch whisky, Scotland’s national drink. The Scotch Whisky Experience, located on the Royal Mile, provides a journey into the history, production, and flavours of this beloved spirit.
When you hop off at Edinburgh Castle, the Scotch Whisky Experience is only a few steps away. Here, you’ll have the chance to book a guided tour and discover the secrets behind Scotland’s most famous export.
Indulge in Traditional Scottish Food
Scottish cuisine is hearty and full of flavour. When you’re planning your days in Edinburgh, set aside time to indulge in some traditional Scottish dishes. From neeps (turnips) to Cullen skink (a creamy fish soup) and cranachan (a dessert made with raspberries, cream, and oats), there’s no shortage of delicious options to try.
Our hop-on, hop-off tours in Edinburgh make it easy to explore the city’s vibrant food scene. Hop off at any of the stops near the city’s renowned restaurants and pubs, many of which are concentrated around the Royal Mile and Grassmarket areas.
These charming neighbourhoods are home to a variety of dining options, from cosy cafes to trendy restaurants, and many offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the historic surroundings.
Get Spooked With a Ghost Tour
Edinburgh has a long history dating back centuries and is known for its haunting tales and spooky atmosphere. This makes it the perfect destination for ghost enthusiasts! The city’s narrow alleyways, underground vaults, and ancient cemeteries add an eerie backdrop for spine-chilling stories of supernatural beings.
With Bright Bus Tours, you can easily include a ghost tour in your Edinburgh itinerary. Hop off at one of the stops near the city’s most haunted locations, such as the Edinburgh Vaults or Greyfriars Kirkyard, and join a tour.
Feel the Magic at Victoria Street, aka Diagon Alley
For Harry Potter fans, visiting Victoria Street is an absolute must. This charming street in Edinburgh’s Old Town is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s creation of Diagon Alley, the magical shopping district in the Harry Potter series.
On our City Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to hop off and explore Victoria Street at your own pace. Wander through the street’s whimsical shops, snap photos of the vibrant building facades, and imagine yourself shopping for your first wand.
Relax in the Picturesque Dean Village
Nestled along the Water of Leith, Dean Village is a peaceful retreat just a short distance from Edinburgh’s city centre. This former milling village, with its stone buildings and quaint bridges, provides a glimpse into the city’s industrial past and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the New Town.
On our Britannia Tour, you’ll have the chance to hop off and explore Dean Village at your pace or book a day tour. Take your time wandering along the river, soak up all the incredible architecture, and don’t forget to snap some photos.
Stretch Your Time & Money
Sightseeing can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if you’re trying to navigate a new city on your own. With our hop-on, hop-off bus in Edinburgh, you can make the most of your time and money while exploring all the city offers.
At Bright Bus Tours, we provide a cost-effective way to see the city’s top attractions at your own pace. Instead of spending money on multiple tickets for different buses or wasting time trying to figure out public transportation, you can sit back and relax as we take you to all the must-see spots.
Our ticket prices start from just £16 for 24 hours or £20 for two tours across two days. These incredible deals make it easier than ever to stretch your budget. Hop on board and discover how much you can see and save with Bright Bus Tours!
Easily Explore Edinburgh’s Most Popular Sights
If you’re wondering what to do in Edinburgh for a day, our tours are the best way to explore the city’s most iconic sights and hidden gems all in a short period of time. With two tour options — the City Tour and the Britannia Tour — you can choose the experience that best suits your interests.
Our City Tour is ideal if you want to explore Edinburgh’s history and vibrant culture. This tour takes you through the heart of the Old Town, where you’ll discover iconic landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and museums like the Museum of Edinburgh.
These are some of the other main attractions you can see on our City Tour.
Visit Edinburgh Castle for Impeccable Views
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most legendary landmarks, perched atop an extinct volcano known as Castle Rock. This historic fortress has played a huge role in Scottish history, operating as a royal residence, military garrison, and prison.
When visiting Edinburgh Castle, you can explore the castle’s many highlights, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the National War Museum, and the Stone of Destiny.
Wander the National Museum of Scotland
This world-class museum holds an extensive collection of artefacts, ranging from ancient Egyptian mummies to scientific inventions. One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal successfully cloned from an adult cell.
When you hop off at the National Museum of Scotland stop, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the museum’s diverse galleries and exhibitions. Plus, you’ll learn about the country’s contributions to science, technology, and the arts.
Marvel at the Scott Monument
The Scott Monument, a striking Victorian Gothic tower, pays tribute to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most beloved writers. Standing at 200 feet tall, the monument is the largest dedicated to a writer anywhere in the world.
Our City Tour includes a stop near the Scott Monument, allowing you to hop off and explore this landmark at your own leisure. You can climb the 287 steps to the top of the monument for incredible views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
View Burns Monument
The Burns Monument is a notable landmark dedicated to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. The monument’s design is inspired by the temples of ancient Greece, featuring a circular temple with Corinthian columns and a domed roof.
When you arrive at the Burns Monument stop, grab the chance to explore this fascinating tribute to one of Scotland’s most influential literary figures. After visiting the monument, take a slow stroll to Calton Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh.
Experience Edinburgh’s Royal Attractions Up Close
If you’re fascinated by the royal heritage of Scotland, our Britannia Tour is a must. On this tour, you can explore the city’s most significant royal landmarks and attractions with ease.
Here are some of the notable attractions you can visit with our hop-on, hop-off Britannia Tour.
Explore The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and is steeped in royal history. This historic thoroughfare stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (or Holyrood Palace), the king’s official residence in Scotland.
Along the way, you’ll encounter landmarks such as St Giles Cathedral, where many royal events have taken place over the centuries. You’ll also see Mary King’s Close, a fascinating underground warren of streets and buildings that offer a glimpse into life in the 17th century.
Immerse Yourself in the Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery houses an extensive collection of Scottish and international art, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Monet. The gallery is also home to a significant collection of royal portraits, including paintings of Mary, Queen of Scots and Prince Charles Edward Stuart.
On our Britannia Tour of Edinburgh, you’ll have the chance to hop off and explore the Scottish National Gallery and get insights into the lives and reigns of the monarchs depicted.
Discover Secrets at Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the floating residence of Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family for over 40 years. Now permanently berthed in Edinburgh’s port of Leith, the yacht has been transformed into a fascinating museum that offers a glimpse into the life of the royals at sea.
Our Britannia Tour includes a stop at the Royal Yacht Britannia, where you can explore this magnificent vessel. You’ll have the opportunity to tour the yacht’s luxurious state apartments, crew quarters, and engine room and learn about the many royal voyages and events that took place on board.
Climb Up Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano that dominates the Edinburgh skyline, offering incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscape. This landmark has a rich history that includes tales of legendary kings.
Hop off close to Holyrood Park, home to Arthur’s Seat, and stroll through and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the greenery and rugged terrain.
Get an Entertaining Experience With Expert Insights
We believe that a memorable tour is not just about the sights you see but also the stories you hear. That’s why we’ve crafted a fun and informative experience that goes beyond the typical hop-on hop-off in Edinburgh.
We have a team of local experts who are passionate about sharing their love for Edinburgh with our guests. As you journey through the city, our guides will share fascinating tales, historical anecdotes, and little-known facts, bringing the city’s rich past and vibrant present to life.
And don’t worry if English isn’t your first language. Our audio guides come in 10 different languages, so you can enjoy the tour no matter where you’re from.
Perfect for All Types of Travelers
Edinburgh is a city that has something for everyone, and Bright Bus Tours is the perfect way to experience it all. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or as part of a group, our tours cater to all types of travellers.
For solo adventurers, our hop-on, hop-off tours are a safe and easy way to explore the city. Plus, you’ll have the freedom to spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop without feeling rushed or held back by a tour group.
Families will love the convenience of our tours, which allow you to tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and little one’s attention spans. Kids will be entertained by our lively commentary and the chance to see Edinburgh’s most famous sights up close.
And parents will appreciate the ease of navigating the city without the stress of driving, finding parking, or navigating public transport. Plus, kids under 5 travel for free, making it an even more budget-friendly option for families.
Groups of friends or colleagues will find our tours to be a fun and social way to explore Edinburgh together. You can hop off at any stop to grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, or visit a museum, knowing that you can easily hop back on the next bus when you’re ready to continue your day trip.
Soak in the Beautiful Views & Snap Away
From the lively Royal Mile to the majestic Edinburgh Castle, there’s no shortage of photo-worthy moments in this beautiful city. And with Bright Bus Tours, you’ll have a front-row seat to take it all in.
Our open-top buses offer unobstructed views of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the city from the best spot. As you wind your way through the streets, you’ll have plenty of chances to take photos of the stunning architecture that makes Edinburgh so special.
And with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, you’ll feel truly engrossed in the magic of Edinburgh. So, bring your camera (or smartphone) and get ready to snap away — you’ll want to remember these views forever!
Hop on Board in a Flash with Our Easy Booking Process
What really sets our hop-on, hop-off tour apart is how easy it is to book your tour and start your adventure. You don’t have to worry about renting a car, finding public transportation, or booking multiple tours. With a hop-on, hop-off tour, everything is taken care of for you. All you have to do is book your ticket, hop on the bus, and let your expert guide lead the way.
At Bright Bus Tours, we’ve created a booking system that’s as straightforward and accessible as possible. You can buy tickets directly on our website, and your ticket will be sent straight to your email address ahead of your trip. This means you can plan your Edinburgh itinerary in advance and have your tickets ready to go when you arrive in the city.
If you prefer to wait until you’re in Edinburgh to book your tour, no problem! You can also buy tickets from our friendly team members, who you’ll find on and around St Andrew Square, Waverley Bridge, and Waterloo Place (where our tours begin). They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you choose the best ticket option for your needs.
Exploring Edinburgh has never been easier, more fun, or more affordable. Book your adventure today and fall in love with Edinburgh — one stop at a time!
Bright Bus Tours: The Brightest & Most Affordable Way to Explore Edinburgh
At Bright Bus Tours, we provide the most entertaining, informative, and convenient way to explore Edinburgh. This dedication has earned us the title of “Scotland’s Official Open-Top Tour and Airport Connection,” and we couldn’t be more thrilled!
But that’s not all — we’re also proud to have received a fantastic 4-star rating from Visit Scotland’s Quality Assurance Scheme.
We offer two distinct tours to suit every traveller. Join our classic City Tour and explore the charming streets of the Old Town, or go for the Britannia Tour to discover the city’s regal side and beautiful coastline. No matter which tour you choose, get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Hop on board with Bright Bus Tours and explore Edinburgh’s enchanting sights. Book your tickets today — our tours are the best way to explore Edinburgh, and we can’t wait to share our love for Edinburgh with you!