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Edinburgh tours | Hop-on Hop-off, guided tours & more

Expert guides. Unique insights.
Expert guides. Unique insights.
Tours in multiple languages
Tours in multiple languages
Top experiences in Edinburgh
Top experiences in Edinburgh
Hop-on Hop-off tours
Guided tours
Day trips
Walking tours
Multi-day tours
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City Sightseeing: Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Hop-on Hop-off Tours Edinburgh
4.2(470)
City Sightseeing: Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
from
£18
3-Route Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Hop-on Hop-off Tours Edinburgh
4.5(267)
3-Route Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
from
£24
Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Hop-on Hop-off Tours Edinburgh
4.3(70)
Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
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£69

Best ways to explore Edinburgh’s historic sights

Whether you're strolling through the ancient alleyways of the Old Town, admiring the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town, or uncovering underground vaults, Edinburgh tours cater to all kinds of travelers and interests. Led by passionate local guides who bring the city’s stories to life, you can sample the folklore of walking tours, the flexibility of hop-on hop-off bus tours, and the experiential nature of day trips.

Why opt for city tours in Edinburgh

1/5

Stunning scenic routes

Whether on foot or by bus, Edinburgh tours deliver panoramic views of the city skyline or lush landscapes like at Arthur’s Seat. These scenic routes make the journey as memorable as the destinations.

Value-packed

Edinburgh tours present great value with inclusions such as entry tickets to attractions, tastings, and transportation. They provide an economical way to see the city without worrying about logistics.

Festival integration

During Edinburgh’s famous festivals, like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or the Hogmanay celebrations, special tours will give you a chance to witness the city’s cultural highlights alongside their guided exploration.

Family-friendly experiences

Many tours are designed with families or big groups in mind, offering interactive and engaging educational content that appeals to both adults and children.

Traditions and folklore

From tales of Scottish clans to the mysterious legends of the Highlands and the mythical Loch Ness monster, many tours highlight Edinburgh’s unique traditions and folklore, providing interesting insights into the city’s identity.

Types of city tours you can take

Hop-on Hop-off bus tours

With the ability to hop on and off at various attractions, you can tailor your itinerary to your own pace. This convenience and flexibility makes it easy to explore the city without the hassle of navigating public transport or sticking to a rigid schedule.

Hop-on Hop-off tours

Walking tours

Unlike bus tours, walking tours allow you to venture through Edinburgh’s narrow, cobblestone streets and hidden alleys, providing a deeper connection to the city's unique fabric. Knowledgeable guides take you up close to the city’s landmarks, allowing for spontaneous discoveries, whether it's a charming courtyard, a historic pub, or a breathtaking view.

Walking tours

Night tours

Once the sun sets, these tours highlight the city’s architectural beauty in a new light. The eerie charm also makes it the perfect backdrop for tales of ghosts, legends, and historical intrigue.

Ghost tours

Food tours

Food tours guide you through local markets, traditional pubs, and hidden eateries where you can taste authentic Scottish dishes like black pudding and cranachan, and learn about their origins. You also get the opportunity to connect with local farmers and chefs, getting access to a rich, sensory experience that deepens your understanding of the city.

Top attractions to visit in Edinburgh

Esplanade Entrance - Edinburgh castle front gate - scotland

Edinburgh Castle

Dating back to the Iron Age, this iconic fortress is an integral part of the country’s heritage and offers a majestic glimpse of Scottish royalty.

Victoria Street
The Royal Mile
St. Giles Cathedral
National Museum of Scotland
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Arthur’s Seat
Royal Botanic Garden
See all photos

Day trips from Edinburgh

Elevate your time in Edinburgh with a variety of daytime expeditions.

Loch Ness

Home to the mythical Nessie, you can visit the majestic Urquhart Castle and enjoy the breathtaking landscape as you make pit stops at Glencoe (known for its waterfalls), Fort Williams and Pitlochry (a Victorian town).

Edinburgh to Loch Ness tours
Isle of Skye

Known for its dramatic terrain, rugged coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, the Isle of Skye is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Local guides host these multi-day tours and offer a chance to sample the finest malt whiskies.

Edinburgh to Isle of Skye tours
Alnwick Castle

Located in Northumberland, visitors can explore the grand medieval architecture, richly decorated state rooms, and beautiful gardens that surround the castle. Several key scenes from the Harry Potter and Downton Abbey franchises were shot here.

Edinburgh to Alnwick Castle tours
St. Andrews and Fife

Pass by the Forth Road Bridge on your drive, an iconic suspension bridge known for its distinctive red ironwork. Continue to St. Andrews, synonymous with being the “Home of Golf,” while Fife is filled with quaint fishing villages.

Edinburgh to St. Andrews tour
Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle

Enjoy the scenic views as you head west towards Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s largest lakes. Perched atop a volcanic rock, Stirling Castle is identified by its stunning Renaissance architecture and ornate interiors.

Best time to visit Edinburgh

The best time to visit Edinburgh is highly dependent on your preferences for weather, events, and crowd levels. Summer, from June to August, is the most vibrant time of year, with the city bustling with energy and visitors during the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer a more peaceful atmosphere, though the weather is known to be unpredictable.

Frequently asked questions about tours in Edinburgh

Is Edinburgh a walkable city or should I opt for a bus tour?

Edinburgh is highly walkable, especially in the Old Town and New Town areas. However, a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is ideal if you want to cover more ground, visit attractions on the outskirts, or prefer a more relaxed experience.

How long is a full loop on the Hop-on Hop-off tour?

A full loop on the Hop-on Hop-off bus tour takes about 60-90 minutes. Buses usually run every 10-15 minutes, with schedules varying by season.

Are there multilingual audio guides available on Hop-on Hop-off buses?

Yes, most Hop-on Hop-off buses offer audio guides in multiple languages like English, Italian, German, Spanish and Chinese.

What is included in a typical day tour from Edinburgh?

Most day tours include transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees to key attractions. Some tours also offer meals or refreshments, depending on the itinerary.

What is the typical duration of a day tour in Edinburgh?

Depending on the distance from Edinburgh and facets to cover, day trips can last from 9 to 12 hours. Some tours, like to the Isle of Skye, are multi-day excursions lasting 2-3 days.

What should I bring on a day tour from Edinburgh?

Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are must-haves. Don’t forget snacks and a water bottle, especially for longer tours. Remember to check your booking details for any other specifics.