Bus & Boat Experience

Simply board your bus at Waterloo Place in the heart of Edinburgh for a tour to South Queensferry. This will then be followed by a  Bus & Boat Tour aboard one of Forth Boat Tours fleet of vessels.

Relax on board with friends and family in the saloon. There also outside seating areas and you listen to the commentary while you enjoy a beverage and snack.

Enjoy superb views of the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge, the Edinburgh skyline, Inchcolm Island and the marine wildlife.

The best ways to travel Edinburgh and South Queensferry.

Of course we’re biased, but we like to think that Boat trips are the best way to explore Edinburgh, especially during the summer months! We have several boat tours available that take you along the Firth of Forth. They all offer stunning views of the city’s coastline, the Forth bridges, and nearby islands.

However, Edinburgh also has a variety of transportation options that can help you get around the city in no time at all. Here are some of the best transport options in and around Edinburgh.

Getting around.

Bus: Edinburgh has a comprehensive bus network operated by Lothian Buses. The buses are frequent, reliable and cover most parts of the city. You can buy tickets on the bus or use a prepaid smart card.

Train: Handily, Edinburgh has two main train stations, Waverley and Haymarket. These conveniently connect the city to the rest of Scotland and beyond. You can simply purchase train tickets online or at the station.

Bicycle: Edinburgh has several cycling routes and bike-friendly areas, and it’s also a great way to explore the city. You can rent a bike from several places in the city or use the bike-sharing scheme.

Walking: Edinburgh is definitely a compact city, and many of its attractions are also within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s narrow streets and alleys and enjoy its beautiful architecture.

Overall, Edinburgh has a variety of truly great transport options that can help you get around the city quickly and easily. You simply have to come and join us on a Bus and Boat Tour adventure!

The Grand 48+ Ticket

The Grand 48+ Ticket with Forth Boat Tours

Make the most of your visit and explore the whole city as well as the Three Bridges. Our best value Grand 48+ ticket gives you a Three Bridges Bus & Boat Tour plus use of all three City Tours for 48 hours. Hop-on Hop-off the City Tours to explore sights such as the Royal Mile, historic Edinburgh Castle and the cobbled streets of the Grassmarket.

Sightseeing in Edinburgh by Bus.

There is so much to see and do in Edinburgh. So here’s our suggested itinerary for a best sightseeing hotspots in Edinburgh by bus:

Edinburgh Castle.

You simply have to start your bus tour at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop an extinct volcano and offers panoramic views of the city. Explore the castle’s historic buildings, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and the Great Hall.

Royal Mile

Hop back on the bus and head down the Royal Mile, a famous street that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll pass by numerous historic buildings, shops, and pubs. Take in the sights, including St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament Building, and the historic closes (narrow alleys) that are steeped in history.

Holyrood Palace

You simply have to explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens. Here you can also learn about its royal history or simply see the chambers Mary, Queen of Scots.

Calton Hill

Next, you should definitely make your way to Calton Hill. This special place offers panoramic views of the city and its landmarks. Once at the top, you can see the iconic monuments the main parts of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The include landmarks such as the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

Old Town and New Town

The bus tour will take you through Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admire the medieval buildings and narrow streets of the Old Town, including the Grassmarket and the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard. Then, marvel at the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town, with its grand townhouses and wide streets.

Scott Monument and Princes Street Gardens

Pass by the impressive Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic tower dedicated to Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. And then visit Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park that separates the Old Town from the New Town. These landmarks offer great photo opportunities and a chance to relax in the green oasis in the heart of the city.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Take a short detour to the port of Leith to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II. Explore the luxurious yacht, including the State Apartments, the Royal Deck Tea Room, and the Crew’s Quarters, and learn about its fascinating history.

Dean Village

Finally, head to Dean Village, a picturesque neighbourhood located on the Water of Leith. This hidden gem features quaint cottages, charming bridges, and a tranquil river.  Quite simply making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and some Instagram-worthy photos.

This is just a suggested itinerary, and you can tailor your bus tour of Edinburgh to your preferences and interests. Don’t forget to check the bus schedules and purchase tickets in advance, and enjoy your sightseeing adventure in Edinburgh!

Departures are from Waterloo Place, Edinburgh

Optional landing on Inchcolm Island

Combine your 90 minute sightseeing cruise with a landing on Inchcolm Island. If you wish to go ashore at Inchcolm Island you need to purchase a landing pass. You should add a minimum 1½ hours when landing on Inchcolm Island. Explore the island’s historic Abbey – The ‘Iona of the east’ one of the best-preserved group of monastic buildings in Scotland. The Island is also a haven for wildlife and is well-known for its wartime coastal defences.

Please note that the last sailing of the day does NOT allow for a stopover on Inchcolm Island. We only stop at Inchcolm on the final sailing to collect passengers. Inchcolm Island is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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