Edinburgh City Sightseeing Bus
Route & Stops
Want to visit the most iconic corners of Edinburgh in the most comfortable way? The City Sightseeing bus is the best option for you.
This open-top two-storey vehicle follows a route with 15 stops through the main places of interest in the city. You can see the majestic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the lively Grassmarket, admire the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or visit the modern Scottish Parliament. You'll be able to design your very own itinerary and hop on and off at any of the bus stops.
During the tour, you'll learn about the history and legends of the city thanks to the recorded commentary in English on board. It's the perfect opportunity to discover all the secrets of the Scottish capital!
You can check the map of the route and all of its stops at the following link:
How Does It Work?
The ticket for the Edinburgh sightseeing bus is valid for 24 consecutive hours from the first time it is used. During this time, you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you want to visit museums such as the National Museum of Scotland or enjoy the views from Calton Hill.
Please note that, although you'll be asked for a start date during the booking process, you can use the service for the following 12 months after the indicated date.
Schedule & Frequency
The sightseeing bus operates at the following times:
- From March 21 to October 31, 2026: from 8:45 am to 6 pm. The bus runs every 7 to 10 minutes
- From November 1, 2026 to March 20, 2027: from 8:55 am to 3:55 pm. The bus runs every 20 minutes
Special Times
- December 25: from 10 am to 3 pm (every 20 minutes)
- December 31: from 9 am to 3 pm (every 30 minutes)
- January 1: from 11 am to 4 pm (every 30 minutes)
If you follow the complete route without getting off at any stop, the approximate duration is 70 minutes.
More Information
Duration
1 day.
Language
The activity takes place with recorded commentary in English, Spanish, French, Italian and Portuguese.
Included
Unlimited use of City Sightseeing bus for 1 day
Recorded commentary in English
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
-
Q - What is the ETA?
A - The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a mandatory electronic travel permit for certain nationalities visiting the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or transit. It is applied for online, costs 16GBP, and is linked to the passport.
-
Q - Who needs an ETA?
A - Everyone needs an ETA, with the exception of British or Irish citizens and people who require a visa to travel to the United Kingdom.
-
Q - How do you apply for the ETA?
A - You apply online (via the UK government's official website or app). You only need a valid passport, a recent photo, travel details, and a payment card. You may receive a response within minutes, although the maximum estimated processing time is up to three business days. Once issued, the authorization is valid for two years (or until your passport expires).
-
Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - City Sightseeing Gbp Corporate name: City Sightseeing Ltd Registered Office: Suite 8 Floor 3 Grosvenor House Redditch, Worcestershire, United Kingdom Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): GB108243538 Contact information Email: bookings@city-sightseeing.com Phone: +44 0 1789 299123
-
Q - What happens if I travel without an ETA?
A - If your nationality requires an ETA and you have not obtained one, you will not be able to board a flight to the United Kingdom, not even for a layover.
-
Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
-
Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.