Discover the enchanting city of Edinburgh with the ultimate flexibility and convenience of the Edinburgh Hop on Hop off Bus Tour. Embark on a journey through the historic streets with iconic landmarks of this Scottish gem, all at your own pace.
From the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the vibrant Royal Mile, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. So sit back, relax, and let the bus transport you through the centuries of history and charm that Edinburgh has to offer.
This post may contain affiliate links. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. As an Amazon Associate, I get a small commission from qualifying purchases.
CHECK AMAZON PRIME BENEFITS AMAZON UK AMAZON USA
Plan your trip like a PRO with these helpful websites: Search for the best flights with Kiwi Secure airport parking on Airport Parking with Us, Airport Parking Manchester, Airport Parking Luton Find transfers and airport services on GetTransfer Rent a car from Discover Cars Buy train tickets on Rail Europe, Omio, Trainline Book cheap bus tickets on Busbud Travel by Ferry with DFDS Find the best hotels' offers on Booking, Hostelword, Agoda Buy a holiday with Loveholidays Visit the most popular attractions with Get Your Guide and Viator Save up to 50% on attractions with GoCity Buy Travel Gear before your trip Amazon US Amazon UK
Travel Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
Book Tickets to Edinburgh Castle in Advance
When we arrived by train from Glasgow to Edinburgh, we noticed straight away an impressive castle that was on top of our travel list. We walked up the hill only to find out that all tickets to Edinburgh Castle were sold.
This attraction is so well known that I highly recommend booking tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment. At least we have a reason to go back to Edinburgh, because this city has so much to offer.
Book Hotel in Glasgow and Travel by Train to Edinburgh
Staying in Edinburgh may be really expensive, especially during bank holidays in the UK. They fall in months such as March, April, May, August and December. However, we came up with an idea on how to visit Edinburgh on a budget.
Instead of paying double the price for a hotel in Edinburgh, we decided to book a stay in a nearby city – Glasgow. Train tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh cost around 15£ and you can get there in one hour. If we decided to stay in the city centre of Edinburgh we would pay a few hundred pounds more just for our short city break.
Some people will still want to book accommodation in the heart of Edinburgh, regardless of the price However, Glasgow is also well worth exploring, so if you ever will be looking for a day out from Edinburgh, catch the train to the biggest city in Scotland.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
During our trip to Edinburgh, we were fortunate enough to experience sunny weather. However, we quickly learned not to trust the sun in this city. Despite the sunshine, the wind was quite strong due to its proximity to the North Sea. A rain coat is a must-have item to protect yourself from unexpected showers and strong winds in Edinburgh.
I highly recommend ensuring you have appropriate clothing before you visit Edinburgh. It is essential to pack comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on exploring the hilly areas of the city. Additionally, don’t forget to bring an umbrella in case of rain, as the weather in Scotland can be quite unpredictable.
For more detailed information on what to pack for your trip, I suggest checking out our article on travel accessories for women and must-have travel essentials for men.
Prioritize What do You Want to See During Your Visit in Edinburgh
The Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour is the perfect way to see the city’s highlights, but you also have to consider the limited time you have. Some of these attractions require a couple of hours to fully explore such as Edinburgh Castle or Holyrood Palace.
You will quickly realize that you need to plan your itinerary wisely. It is worth to book in advance your visit to Edinburgh Castle or Holyrood Palace so you will know how much time you will have left for other landmarks.
The opening hours and available time slots can vary depending on the day. By securing your ticket in advance to Edinburgh Castle you will be able to plan your day in the city with ease. Our top recommendations include: Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, Calton Hill and Grassmarket.
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
The Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour was the best option for us, because we were in the city for a limited time and we wanted to see as much as we could. Moreover, walking in Edinburgh is a bit challenging due to hilly terrain, so Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour is a much more comfortable way of sightseeing.
What’s more, if you don’t have time for trip planning, Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour has everything ready for you. All you have to do is jump on the bus and admire all beautiful landmarks in the city.
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket is valid for a full 12 months from the date of purchase, allowing you to embark on your adventure whenever it suits you best. It means that you can take your time to research the city’s top attractions, create a personalized itinerary, and make the most of your visit.
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Timetable
The Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus operates with a convenient timetable that ensures frequent services for visitors. During the peak season, which spans from April to October, the buses operate at a frequency of every 10-12 minutes.
The service begins at 9 am and continues until 6 – 7 pm, providing ample time for you to explore the city at your own pace. It’s worth noting that the timetable for the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour is subject to possible modifications. Therefore, it’s always wise to verify the schedule in advance to ensure a seamless journey.
Winter Timetable of Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus
On Christmas Day, you can hop on the bus between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm, with buses departing every 20 minutes. As the year comes to a close, the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus continues to provide service on New Year’s Eve. From 9.00 am to 3.00 pm, you can catch the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus every 30 minutes, giving you ample time to visit popular landmarks and enjoy the city’s festivities.
On New Year’s Day, the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus operates from 11.00 am to 4.00 pm, with departures every 30 minutes. This allows you to start the year off right by discovering the beauty and charm of Edinburgh.
Additionally, during the winter season, the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus operates from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm, with departures every 30 minutes. This ensures that even during the colder months, you can still enjoy the convenience of the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus service while exploring city’s attractions.
Discounts with Your Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket
As soon as we hopped on the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour, we were handed a Route Map by the friendly bus guide. Little did we know that this map would be our ticket to incredible discounts!
We were thrilled to discover that we could enjoy discounts at a wide range of cafes, distilleries, and gift/souvenir shops. The Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket not only provides transportation but also opens doors to a world of savings and memorable experiences.
If you’re planning to visit the city during low season, let me share a little secret with you. When you purchase your Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket, you’ll have the chance to take advantage of some amazing deals. One of the most exciting offers I have seen was the opportunity for three kids to ride for free with each paying adult. It’s a great way to save some money while enjoying a memorable family adventure.
Iconic Edinburgh Hop On Hop Bus Route
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off
Bus Stop 1 – Waterloo Place
Welcome aboard the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus! Our first stop is Waterloo Place, a bustling area located in the heart of the city. It is only a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station.
Scott Monument
As you get on the Hop On Hop Off Bus, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant atmosphere and the stunning architecture that surrounds it. Standing tall and proud in the heart of Edinburgh, the Scott Monument is the second largest structure in the world that pays homage to the writer – renowned Scottish author, Sir Walter Scott.
This iconic landmark is a sight to behold, with its intricate Gothic design and towering height of 200 feet 6 inches (61.11m). As you ascend the narrow spiral staircase inside the Scott Monument, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of literary greatness.
Balmoral Hotel
The Balmoral Hotel’s grandeur is evident in every detail during Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. This 5-star hotel in Edinburgh is situated right in the heart of the city, at the east end of Princes Street.
I absolutely love the architectural style of the Balmoral Hotel! It’s Victorian, with a touch of traditional Scottish baronial influence. The talented architect behind this masterpiece is William Hamilton Beattie.
Back in the 20th century, Balmoral Hotel was famously known as the North British Hotel or the N.B. The Balmoral Hotel was specifically built for the North British Railway Company, conveniently located right next to the newly reconstructed Waverley station.
During its time under railway ownership, the Balmoral Hotel had a unique feature that added to its charm. The porters, dressed in eye-catching red jackets, were always ready to assist the guests. They would warmly welcome passengers and help them with their luggage, creating a sense of luxury and convenience.
Romanes & Paterson
When I will come back to Edinburgh, I will make it a point to visit Romanes & Paterson. This traditional shop, established in the 1800s, is a true gem on Princes Street. Whether it’s a traditional tartan blanket or a handcrafted whisky glass, Romanes and Paterson offers some of the best souvenirs in the city.
Calton Hill
The Hop On Hop Off Bus Stop 1 is also conveniently located near Calton Hill, a must-visit attraction. Alternatively, for those who prefer a different route, the Hop On Hop Off Bus also stops at Holyrood. From there, you can embark on a scenic walk through the New Calton Burial Ground, which leads you directly to Calton Hill. Another option is the last Hop On Hop Off bus stop which is on Regent Street.
I recommend walk through the New Calton Burial Ground that allows you to explore the fascinating history of the burial ground, with its intriguing tombstones and memorials. As we reached Calton Hill, we were greeted by panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.
Calton Hill holds a special place in my heart as I have always been fascinated by its rich history and breathtaking views. Formed through volcanic activity around 340 million years ago, Calton Hill, along with Arthur’s Seat and the Castle Rock, stands as a reminder of the powerful forces that once shaped the landscape of Scotland.
As I stand atop Calton Hill, I can’t help but imagine the immense glaciers that once covered this land during the ice ages. Around two and a half million years ago, Scotland experienced its first ice age, and Edinburgh was completely engulfed by a massive ice sheet, several hundred meters thick. It is awe-inspiring to think about the weight of the ice and how it carved and molded the hills that we see today.
Delving into the intriguing history of Calton Hill, I discovered that it may have been utilized by the early Bronze Age people of Scotland around 4000 years ago. It is incredible to think that this hill has witnessed the footsteps of our ancestors from such a distant time.
However, as time went on, the hill took on different roles. In the 1400s, it became a vibrant venue for medieval tournaments and joyous festivities, bringing people together in celebration. Yet, a darker chapter unfolded during the 1600s when Calton Hill became a haunting site for public executions, leaving a somber mark on its history.
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off
Bus Stop 2 – St. Andrew Square
St. Andrew Square is a home to the impressive Melville Monument, a towering structure that pays homage to Henry Dundas, a prominent figure in Scottish history. From St. Andrew Square, you can easily explore the surrounding areas of Edinburgh. Just a short walk away is the famous Princes Street, known for its high-end stores and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
If you’re in the mood for some culture, you can visit the National Portrait Gallery, Royal Scottish Academy or the National Gallery of Scotland, all located nearby.
Although our time in Edinburgh was limited, we couldn’t resist the temptation to immerse ourselves in the captivating world of art at the National Gallery of Scotland. With its vast collection of masterpieces, this museum offered a glimpse into the genius of renowned artists such as Vicente Carducho, Salvator Rosa, and Rembrandt van Rijn.
Each painting in the National Gallery of Scotland is hung on walls painted in a striking shade of red, creating a dramatic contrast that enhances the visual impact of the artworks. The vibrant colors of the paintings seemed to dance against the backdrop, inviting us to lose ourselves in their beauty and marvel at the skill and creativity of legendary artists such as Bartolome Esteban Murillo or Giovanni Francesco Barbieri.
The red painted walls with historic artworks at the National Gallery of Scotland evoke a similar enchantment to those we have seen at Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow. All of the paintings at the National Gallery of Scotland are extremely realistic. One such example is Velazquez’s painting of An Old Woman Cooking Eggs.
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off
Bus Stop 3 – Lothian Road
At the Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Stop 3 you can take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Princes Street Gardens, where you can admire the beautifully manicured landscapes and breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.
Ross Fountain
Princes Street Gardens is also a home to a true gem, the magnificent Ross Fountain. This stunning piece of art, crafted with utmost precision and skill in the Victorian era, adds a touch of elegance to the the gardens.
It is a testament to the creativity of Daniel Ross, a local gun maker who was inspired by a fountain he saw in London during the Great Exhibition of 1862. In 1869, Daniel Ross decided to bring a larger version of the fountain to Edinburgh as a generous gift to the city.
St Cuthbert’s Parish Church
As we stroll through Princes Street Gardens, our eyes are drawn to the magnificent sight of St Cuthbert’s Parish Church which was constructed between 1892 and 1894. Despite its prominent location, the church seems to exist in its own tranquil world, shielded from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city. It is hard to believe that we were on our own during a visit to St Cuthbert’s Parish Church.
It is fascinating to think that beneath its surface, traces of at least six earlier church buildings have been discovered. As we stood in the Parish Church of St Cuthbert graveyard, we couldn’t stop to admire the breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle Hospital.
At that moment, we also felt a deep connection to the past. The ancient gravestones, weathered by time, stood as silent witnesses to the passage of countless souls.
The grandeur of the Italian Renaissance style that adorns the church’s interior is truly a sight to behold. As I laid my eyes on the pulpit, I knew it was something special. Designed by the talente
