About this experience
This hop-on hop-off bus tour around Edinburgh provides you with a convenient and flexible way to explore famous landmarks and attractions, including the Waterloo Place, St Andrew Square, National Museum of Scotland, Cannongate Kirk, and Abbeyhill. The tour covers multiple routes and stops, allowing you to explore the world's first UNESCO City of Literature at your own pace. With audio guides available in multiple languages, you can learn about its rich history and culture as you travel.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
- 1
Red Route — Stop 1: Waterloo Place
The main boarding point at 27 Waterloo Place, a short walk from Waverley Station.
- 2
Red Route — Stop 2: St Andrew Square
Heart of Edinburgh's New Town, surrounded by Georgian architecture and upscale shopping.
- 3
Red Route — Stop 3: Lothian Road
Gateway to the West End, close to Usher Hall and the financial district.
- 4
Red Route — Stop 4: Bread Street
A convenient stop for the Grassmarket area and the Old Town's lively bar scene.
- 5
Red Route — Stop 5: The Mound
Alight here for the National Gallery of Scotland and sweeping views of Princes Street Gardens.
- 6
Red Route — Stop 6: George IV Bridge
Steps from the famous Greyfriars Kirkyard and the independent shops of Candlemaker Row.
- 7
Red Route — Stop 7: Grassmarket
One of Edinburgh's oldest markets, now a bustling square lined with pubs and restaurants beneath the castle.
- 8
Red Route — Stop 8: National Museum of Scotland
Free entry to one of the UK's finest museums, covering Scottish history from prehistoric times to the present.
- 9
Red Route — Stop 9: Canongate Kirk
A Royal Mile landmark and the parish church of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- 10
Red Route — Stop 10: Holyrood Palace
The official Scottish residence of the monarch, at the foot of the Royal Mile.
- 11
Red Route — Stop 11: Dynamic Earth
An interactive science attraction telling the story of our planet, ideal for families.
- 12
Red Route — Stop 12: Abbeyhill
A residential neighbourhood stop connecting the Old Town to the eastern suburbs.
- 13
Red Route — Stop 13: Regent Road
Offers views across Calton Hill and back towards the city skyline.
- 14
Blue Route — Stop 3: The Shore
Leith's characterful waterfront, lined with award-winning restaurants and independent bars.
- 15
Blue Route — Stop 4: Victoria Quay
Home to the Scottish Government offices and a short walk from the docks.
- 16
Blue Route — Stop 5: Royal Yacht Britannia
Board the former royal yacht for a self-guided tour of the ship that sailed the Queen around the world.
- 17
Blue Route — Stop 6: Fishmarket Square
The historic heart of Newhaven, Edinburgh's ancient fishing village.
- 18
Blue Route — Stop 7: Royal Botanic Garden
Over 70 acres of landscaped gardens and glasshouses, free to enter and beautiful in every season.
Hop on and off at any stop along the route.
Meeting point
27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BQ, UK
Board at Stop 1 — Waterloo Place, a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley railway station. Present your mobile ticket to the driver or conductor when boarding. You can also join the route at any other designated stop.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Your mobile ticket (no need to print)
- A layer for the open-top deck — Edinburgh weather can be brisk
Know before you go
Good to know
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. Your ticket is delivered to your phone and can be scanned directly from your screen when you board.
What is the difference between the 24-hour and 48-hour tickets?
The 24-hour Discover Ticket gives you one full day to hop on and off across both routes. The 48-hour Essential and Explore Tickets extend that to two days, giving you more time to revisit stops or explore at a slower pace. Family package versions are available for each.
Can I use both the red and blue routes on the same ticket?
Yes. All tickets cover both the red City Route and the blue Britannia Route, so you can switch between them freely during your validity period.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Children under 4 travel free of charge, though they are not entitled to a separate seat. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Family package tickets are available for groups with children.
Where can I find up-to-date departure times and bus frequency?
Timetables, stop maps, and operating hours can change. The most current information is available on the official Big Bus Tours website via the link provided in your booking confirmation.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The buses run in most weather conditions. The upper deck is open-top, so dressing in layers is recommended. Covered lower-deck seating is available on board.
Big Bus Tours
Big Bus Tours is one of the world's largest open-top sightseeing operators, running hop-on hop-off tours in more than 20 cities across four continents.