The best bus tours in Edinburgh

If you're looking for a truly unique and spooky experience in Edinburgh, then the Ghost Bus Tour is a must-do. Prepare to be scared silly as you journey through the city's darkest corners aboard a vintage double-decker 'Routemaster' bus. Your creepy conductor will guide you through the city's most terrifying and impressive sights, including Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile. You'll hear chilling tales of grisly executions, unspeakable tortures, and grim grave robbers. Don't be surprised if your hairs stand on end as you listen to the stories unfold.

The tour is about an hour long, giving you plenty of time to soak in the eerie atmosphere and learn about the city's sinister past. The bus itself is a real highlight, adding to the overall spooky ambiance. You'll feel like you've been transported back in time as you ride through the cobbled streets, imagining the ghosts and ghouls that might be lurking in the shadows. The tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and it's sure to leave you with some spine-tingling memories.

The Ghost Bus Tour is a great option for anyone who enjoys a good scare, and it's also a fun and entertaining way to learn about Edinburgh's history. Just remember to keep an eye out for the ghosts and ghouls that might be lurking in the shadows!

If you’re looking for a flexible and comprehensive way to explore Edinburgh, the Royal Edinburgh Ticket is a fantastic option. This ticket gives you 48 hours of unlimited travel on three different hop-on hop-off bus tours, allowing you to see the city at your own pace. You'll have access to the Edinburgh Tour, City Sightseeing Edinburgh, and the Majestic Tour, each offering a unique perspective on the city. Choose from multilingual audio commentary or opt for a live guide to learn about Edinburgh's history and culture.

But the real highlight of this ticket is the inclusion of entry to three of Edinburgh’s most iconic royal attractions: Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. After soaking up the panoramic views from the top deck of the bus, hop off at any of the strategically placed stops to delve deeper into these historical gems. Explore the imposing Edinburgh Castle, the former residence of Scottish royalty, and imagine life aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen's former floating palace. Then, step back in time at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Queen in Scotland.

This ticket is ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of Edinburgh without feeling rushed. You can spend as much time as you like at each attraction, hop back on the bus to explore another part of the city, and return to your favorite spots at your leisure. The flexibility and convenience of the Royal Edinburgh Ticket make it a great choice for anyone visiting the Scottish capital.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and history of Scotland in a single day. You'll be whisked away in a luxurious Mercedes minivan, complete with air conditioning and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. First, we stop to admire the stunning views over the Forth Bridges from South Queensferry, a truly breathtaking sight. From there, we head to Linlithgow Palace, a place steeped in history and intrigue. You'll be captivated by the stories of the Stuart Royals and the battles that shaped this ancient royal seat.

Next, we take the "Royal Route" to Stirling Castle, a truly imposing fortress with a rich history. Your passionate driver-guide will bring the stories of the castle to life, immersing you in the past. After Stirling Castle, we journey to the stunning Loch Lomond, a haven of natural beauty. You'll be enchanted by the calm waters and dramatic highland scenery, a truly unforgettable experience. We'll also visit the charming conservation village of Luss, where you can hear fascinating stories from centuries of local tradition.

The best part? This tour is completely customizable! If there's a particular place you want to see along the way, simply let your guide know. They'll be happy to tailor the itinerary to your interests. You'll have a truly unique and personal experience, exploring the highlights of Scotland at your own pace. This tour is perfect for those who want to see a lot in a short amount of time, without sacrificing the opportunity to learn and experience the rich history and culture of Scotland.

For a truly immersive experience that takes you beyond the city limits, consider the Kingdom of Fife Tour. This private day trip whisks you away from the bustling streets of Edinburgh and into the picturesque countryside of Fife. The journey itself is a highlight, with panoramic views of the Forth Bridges and the rugged coastline. You'll be transported in a luxurious Mercedes MPV, complete with WiFi, bottled water, and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Once you reach Fife, you'll be captivated by its charming villages, cobbled streets, and historic architecture. The tour takes you to St Andrews, the home of golf, where you can explore the iconic Old Course, the ancient university, the imposing castle, and the majestic cathedral. This historic town is steeped in tradition and offers a glimpse into Scotland's rich past.

Hopscotch Travel, the tour operator, is committed to sustainable tourism, ensuring that their operations minimize their impact on the environment. This dedication to preserving the beauty of Scotland is evident in their commitment to protecting the landscapes, wildlife, and habitats of this stunning country.