How to Plan Your 24-Hour Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, offers an extraordinary blend of old and new. You will be amazed by the beautiful architecture that dates back to centuries, stunning panoramas of hills and mountains, historical monuments, and the buzzing nightlife. A 24-hour Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tour is a perfect way to explore the city’s famous landmarks and hidden gems.This award-winning tour is operated by experienced guides who will provide all the necessary information about the city’s history and culture. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your 24-hour Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tour so that you can make the most of your visit to the city.

Experience

With the Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tour, you will get the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. This open-top bus tour provides panoramic views of the city, letting you take in the breathtaking scenery while you listen to the informative on-board audio commentary (available in 9 languages). Additionally, the tour provides a kid-friendly historical commentary entitled ‘Horrible Histories,’ which will keep the younger ones entertained.

Highlights

The Hop-on Hop-off Tour has multiple stops where you can get off and explore the city. Here are some of the tour highlights:

• St Andrews Square
• Johnstone Terrace
• The Royal Mile
• Edinburgh Castle
• Grassmarket

How to Plan Your Tour

Step 1: Book Your Tickets

Book your tickets in advance to avoid on-the-day hassle. You can book your tickets online at the following link book the tour here.

Step 2: Choose Your Departure Time

The Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off tour runs daily at multiple intervals starting from early morning till the early evening. Select a time that fits your schedule and arrive at least 15 minutes before the departure time.

Step 3: Download the Tour Map

Once you have booked your tickets, download the tour map from the operator’s website. The map provides all the relevant information about the tour route and stops, helping you plan your itinerary.

Step 4: Plan Your Route

Looking at the tour map, identify the landmarks you want to visit, keeping in mind the time available. We suggest taking a complete ride around the city first to get a feel of the city and the tour, then hop off at the stops you are most interested in.

Step 5: Enjoy the Tour

Once you are on the bus, take in the beautiful sights of the city while listening to the informative commentary. As you visit the stops, take your time to explore the landmarks and surroundings, making the most of your hop-off time.

What’s Included

The Hop-on Hop-off Tour includes the following:

• 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket
• One of the best audio commentaries in 9 languages
• ‘Horrible Histories’ Kid’s Commentary
• Headphones
• Kids go free until March 31st 2023 with up to three kids traveling free per adult ticket (please still add child tickets to the cart when making your purchase)

Conclusion

A 24-hour Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s landmarks, history, and culture at your own pace. With the informative commentary, panoramic views, and multiple hop-off stops, you can make the most of your time in the city. By following the steps mentioned in this blog post, you can plan your tour effectively and have an unforgettable experience in Edinburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Edinburgh, you might have some questions about the city. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh.

1. What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June to August) are the busiest and most expensive. The city is bustling with festivals and events, including the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. If you prefer quieter and cheaper travel, the winter months (December to February) are ideal. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy the Christmas markets, Hogmanay celebrations, and the snow-capped landscapes.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has numerous tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the top attractions include:

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress that has stood on a hill overlooking the city for centuries. It is home to the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels), the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a historic thoroughfare that connects Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions such as St Giles’ Cathedral, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament is a modern building located at the foot of the Royal Mile. It is open to the public, and you can attend debates, exhibitions, and events.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is located on Chambers Street and is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It has exhibits on Scottish history, natural history, world cultures, and science and technology.

3. Is Edinburgh an expensive city?

Edinburgh is not the cheapest city in the world, but it is not the most expensive either. The cost of living in Edinburgh is slightly higher than the UK average, but there are ways to save money while visiting the city. To save on accommodation, consider staying in hostels, budget hotels, or guesthouses. You can also save money on food by shopping at supermarkets and cooking your meals.

4. What is the weather like in Edinburgh?

The weather in Edinburgh is unpredictable, even in the summer months. The city experiences all four seasons, and it is not uncommon to experience four seasons in one day. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 19°C (66°F), but it can reach highs of 25°C (77°F). The winter months (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and occasional snowfall.

5. How can I get around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a relatively small city, and it is easy to get around on foot. However, if you prefer to use public transport, there are several options available, including:

Buses

Lothian Buses is the main bus operator in Edinburgh, and it operates an extensive network of routes throughout the city.

Trams

Edinburgh has a modern tram system that runs from the airport to the city centre. It is a convenient and fast way to travel around the city.

Taxis

Licensed taxis are readily available in Edinburgh. They are metered, and the fare should be agreed upon before the journey.

6. What is the local cuisine in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a rich culinary heritage that includes traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties. Some of the must-try local foods include:

Haggis

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, and seasonings. It is usually served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

Cullen Skink

Cullen skink is a thick soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, cream, and onions.

Cranachan

Cranachan is a dessert made from whipped cream, honey, toasted oatmeal, and raspberries.

7. Is Edinburgh a safe city?

Edinburgh is a relatively safe city, but like any other city, there are areas that are best avoided at night. Use common sense and take precautions such as avoiding dark alleys and poorly lit areas, and not leaving valuable items unattended.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Edinburgh?

If you are a citizen of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, you do not need a visa to visit Edinburgh. If you are a citizen of any other country, you may need a visa. Check with the UK embassy in your country for more information.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a vibrant city that has something to offer for every type of traveller. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Edinburgh has it all. We hope this post has answered some of your questions about Edinburgh and that it has helped you plan your trip. Happy travelling!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a place like no other. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture, it is a must-visit destination for any tourist. If you are planning to visit Edinburgh, here is a guide on how to spend your time in this beautiful city.

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

If there is one place you must visit in Edinburgh, it has to be Edinburgh Castle. This iconic fortress sits at the top of the city’s famous Royal Mile and offers stunning views of the city. You can take a guided tour to explore the castle’s history and see the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The castle is open daily, and tickets can be purchased online in advance.

2. Walk the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and it stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Walking this cobbled street is a must-do when in Edinburgh as it is lined with shops, restaurants, and historical sites. It is also home to the famous St Giles’ Cathedral, which is well worth a visit.

3. Explore the Art Galleries

Edinburgh is home to some of the best art galleries in the UK, including the Scottish National Gallery and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. These galleries house art from some of the world’s most famous artists, including Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. Treasures such as the Duke of Wellington statue with a traffic cone on its head can also be found in the city.

4. Take a Tour of the Whisky Distilleries

Scotland is known worldwide for its whisky, and Edinburgh has several distilleries that are open for tours. You can choose from a wide range of whisky distilleries that are located within easy reach of the city center. Some must-visit distilleries include Glenkinchie, the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, and the Scotch Whisky Experience.

5. Visit the Edinburgh Dungeon

If you are into scary experiences, make sure you visit the Edinburgh Dungeon. Here, you will experience Edinburgh’s dark and mysterious past through a series of interactive exhibits and shows. It is a thrilling experience that is sure to leave you with goosebumps.

6. Go Shopping on Princes Street

If you love shopping, then Princes Street is the place to be. It is the main shopping street in Edinburgh and is home to a wide range of shops, from high-end designer stores to independent boutiques. The street also offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town.

7. Experience the Edinburgh Festivals

Edinburgh is a city that loves to celebrate, and there is probably no better example than the Edinburgh Festival. The festival is made up of a variety of events, including the Edinburgh Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These events take place at different times throughout the year, so be sure to check the festival calendar in advance.

8. Enjoy the Scenery at Arthur’s Seat

Located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that sits 251 meters above sea level. It is a popular spot for hikers and walkers, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. It is a must-visit spot, especially on a clear day.

9. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is a treasure trove of history and is home to more than 20,000 objects that tell the story of Scotland. From ancient artifacts to modern exhibits, there is something for everyone here. Some of the highlights include the Dolly the Sheep display, the Scottish Galleries, and the interactive Imagine gallery for children.

10. Take a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is home to many ghost stories and legends, and the city offers a variety of ghost tours that will take you through the city’s haunted streets and alleyways. From tours of the Blair Street Underground Vaults to the haunted Mary King’s Close, there is plenty of spooky fun to be had.In conclusion, Edinburgh is a city that is rich in history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just having fun, there is something for everyone here. Be sure to tick off all of these activities and more, and you will undoubtedly fall in love with this beautiful city.