Discover Edinburgh with the Best Bus Tours
Experience the vibrant history and culture of Edinburgh with the best bus tours from St Andrew Square, a gateway to Scotland's capital.
Explore the enchanting city of Edinburgh with its rich history and vibrant culture through the fascinating bus tours offered at St Andrew Square. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these tours provide a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience Scotland's capital.
A brief summary to Edinburgh Bus Tours
- St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, North Side, EH2 1AF, GB
- +441314750618
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure the best rates and avoid long queues.
- Consider taking the tour early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Listen for the audio guides available in multiple languages for a more enriched understanding of the sights.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable.
- Make use of the hop-on, hop-off feature to explore attractions that interest you without the rush.
Getting There
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Bus
From Stirling City Centre, walk to the Stirling Bus Station located on Goosecroft Road. Once there, board a bus heading to Edinburgh. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Make sure to get off at the St Andrew Square stop in Edinburgh. From the bus stop, walk towards the north side of St Andrew Square, and you will find the Edinburgh Bus Tours office situated at the north side of the square.
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Train
Head to Stirling Train Station, which is a short walk from the city center. Purchase your ticket to Edinburgh Waverley Station. The train ride takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Waverley Station, exit the station and walk approximately 10 minutes to St Andrew Square. Head northeast on Waverley Bridge, then turn left onto South St David Street. Continue straight until you reach St Andrew Square, and you will find the Edinburgh Bus Tours on the north side of the square.
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Walking
If you are near the Stirling Castle, you can walk to the bus station and take a bus to Edinburgh or walk to the train station to catch a train. From Stirling Castle, head down the hill towards the city center and follow signs to either the Bus Station or the Train Station. Once at either station, you can follow the previous transportation options to reach St Andrew Square in Edinburgh.
Discover more about Edinburgh Bus Tours
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melville Monument
0.1 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.1 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.3 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
North Bridge
0.5 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.5 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.5 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.5 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.6 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Museum Context
0.6 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Lady Stair's Close
0.6 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Lady Stair's House
0.6 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
St Andrew Square
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s iconic basement comedy club delivering lively stand-up shows with a warm, intimate atmosphere and a mix of top and emerging talent.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
Multrees Walk
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
The Dome
0.2 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
Cask
0.3 km
A lively Princes Street rooftop bar with panoramic Old Town views, Peruvian small plates and cosy heated domes for intimate cityside nights.
Scott Monument
0.3 km
Discover the stunning Scott Monument in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens, a Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott with breathtaking city views.
Waverley Market
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s central shopping destination blending historic charm with vibrant retail and dining experiences year-round.
Edinburgh New Town
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
Waverley Steps
0.3 km
Waverley Steps: A modern, accessible gateway blending historic charm with panoramic views in Edinburgh’s city center.
St James Quarter
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.4 km
A historic and vibrant green oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, offering iconic views, rich heritage, and festive events year-round.
Edinburgh
0.4 km
Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a majestic floating palace and iconic symbol of British royal history and maritime heritage.
Essential places to dine
Amarone
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.2 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Lady Libertine
0.2 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.2 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
The Magnum
0.2 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Twenty Princes Street
0.3 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Number One
0.3 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.3 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Duck & Waffle
0.3 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Table
0.4 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Anime Republic
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Pure Scottish
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Greyfriars Art
0.4 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Curiouser & Curiouser
0.5 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
The Dragonfly
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Eden
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.5 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Unicorn Antiques
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
I Love Scotland
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Heritage of Scotland
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nightcap
0.1 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.2 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Grand Cru
0.3 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Bramble Bar
0.3 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
The Alchemist
0.3 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.3 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Thistle Street Bar
0.4 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Street
0.4 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Bon Vivant
0.4 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.5 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.6 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.6 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Why Not Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Garibaldi's
0.3 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
0.3 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
0.4 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.7 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Bongo Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.8 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Mash House
0.8 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
