Private or Group: Which Bus Tours Tour Should You Choose in Edinburgh?
By Editorial Team · Last updated 16/08/2026
- Best season
- May to September
- How to get there
- 4.5 hours by train from London King's Cross, or fly into Edinburgh Airport
- Avg. visit duration
- 2-3 days
Choosing between a private and group bus tour in Edinburgh depends largely on your priorities and budget. When considering tours of this scale, you’ll find a fantastic range of options available – currently, there are 33 different Bus Tours to choose from. The price range is impressively broad, stretching from a modest £20 up to a considerable £670, reflecting the differing lengths and inclusions of each tour.
Generally speaking, group tours offer significant cost savings compared to private experiences. You’ll find many options falling within the £30-£150 bracket, which is considerably more affordable than opting for a bespoke itinerary. However, this comes with compromises. Group tours operate on set schedules and routes, potentially meaning you’re sharing your experience with other travellers. The pace of the tour will also be dictated by the group's needs and interests, rather than solely your own.
On the other hand, private tours offer unparalleled flexibility. You can tailor the itinerary to your specific preferences, spend as much or as little time as you like at each location, and control the overall pace of the journey. This level of customization typically comes with a higher price tag – expect to pay upwards of £200, potentially reaching £670 for tours that include premium experiences or smaller group sizes.
With an average rating of 4.8/5 across all tours, you can be confident in finding a well-regarded experience regardless of your choice. The most highly rated tour currently is the “Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Loch Shiel Tour from Edinburgh” at 5.0/5 based on 196 reviews and priced at £69.