Explore Edinburgh

Beaming with awe-inspiring attractions like the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, and Carlton Hill, Edinburgh is a wonder to adventure through.

Discover the wonders of Edinburgh effortlessly with our entertaining and affordable Bright Bus Tours. You’ll get to see the most stunning city sights comfortably on board our guided tourist bus in Edinburgh. View our hop-on hop-off City Tour & Britannia Tour maps to plan your next visit to Edinburgh.

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See the City’s Highlights With Our Edinburgh Sightseeing Tours

Get front-row seats to the best attractions in town with our Britannia Tour and City Centre Tour. Our hop-on hop-off Edinburgh bus takes you directly to some of the most popular and hidden gems that make this city so unique.

These are just some of the best places to visit in Edinburgh when you hop on our Edinburgh sightseeing bus tours.

Burns Monument

This 19th-century Neo-Greek Temple is dedicated to one of Scotland’s most beloved poets – Robert Burns. While it originally contained a marble statue of the literature legend, you can still enjoy a view of Calton Hill from its ruins. 

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with views of the city so awe-inspiring that it’s been captured by artists throughout the centuries. Be sure to visit the Parthenon-inspired National Monument and the many other monuments on this volcanic hill.

Dynamic Earth & Arthur’s Seat

Our Edinburgh tour stops at Dynamic Earth, near the famous Arthur’s Seat. Make your way through a jam-packed journey of 360 interactive galleries and stunning sights before taking a journey to the summit of Arthur’s Seat. This ancient volcano is thought to have been the site of King Arthur’s famous castle, Camelot.

Edinburgh Castle

Travel back in time at one of Europe’s oldest-standing fortifications. Built in the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle has served as a royal residence, fortress, and prison. Learn about the castle’s turbulent and vast history before stopping by The Tea Rooms for a traditional afternoon tea.

Holyrood Distillery

When Edinburgh Distillery closed in 1925, it left an unfortunate century-long gap in Edinburgh brewing. Holyrood Distillery closed that gap by becoming the first new whisky distillery in Edinburgh in a hundred years. This modern brewery is a fantastic place to sample creative whiskies. 

John Knox House

With history tracing back all the way to 1470, this house is one of the oldest buildings on the Royal Mile. John Knox, leader of the Scottish Reformation, briefly stayed in these hallowed halls before his untimely death in 1572.

Johnston Terrace 

Just a few minutes away from the Royal Mile is the Johnston Terrace, an important architectural journey in the city’s history. Opened to the public in the 1830s, the terrace was part of Thomas Hamilton’s move to create a Western Approach for Edinburgh. 

Museum of Edinburgh

The Museum of Edinburgh was built in the 16th century and is currently part of Huntley’s House. There are many famous historical objects here, such as the National Covenant of 1638. You can also enjoy family-based activities, like a mysterious detective case to work out with the children.

National Museum of Scotland

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland collected the first archaeological objects that formed this museum’s collection. It was opened to the public in 1998 with the development of the National Museum of Scotland. You can see Mary Queen of Scots’ personal collection here, and even the iconic Lewis Chess Pieces from the 12th century. 

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse was originally designed in 1671 as an official home of the British monarch. While royalty no longer live here, they still use the venue for official royal ceremonies and other important events.

Royal Botanic Garden  

Spreading 70 acres long, this incredible landmark was founded in 1670 to grow medicinal plants. The Royal Botanic Garden is home to one of the largest and richest plant collections on earth. The beautiful garden offers several short courses on botany and herbology and plenty of opportunity to admire nature.

Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the highlights of our Britannia Tour, with a history dating back to 1953. It was originally built to serve as the first sailing-worthy vessel, primarily for the British Royal Family. Join our Edinburgh hop-on, hop-off bus tour and walk the five decks, marvel at the engine room, and even see Queen Elizabeth’s favourite room.

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

With two sculpture parks and two galleries, you’ll have your fill of Edinburgh art and culture at this gallery. Opened in 1960, The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is home to a number of remarkable works by famous painters such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

Victoria Street (AKA Diagon Alley)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss this charming street when you’re sightseeing in Edinburgh. It’s rumoured to be the inspiration behind the movie’s Diagon Alley, where Harry received his first wand. It’s a fan favourite on our sightseeing bus in Edinburgh!

Water of Leith

The Water of Leith used to be a bustling centre during the industrial period in Edinburgh. Now, you can wander along the approximately 20km walking route along the river and enjoy neoclassical architecture in St Bernard’s Well, see the Antony Gormley Statues, and more.

Want to see all of these incredible sights in two days?
Book our Two Tours, Two Days sightseeing tour in Edinburgh for 48 hours of fun.