Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most charismatic capitals, but part of its appeal is how easy it is to escape the city and see the rest of Scotland. Within an hour or two you can stand on a windswept castle rampart, cruise across a loch, hike through a national park or stroll around a fishing village that looks like it belongs in a painting. This guide pulls together more than 15 day Edinburgh Day Trips you can take with or without a car, and answers every question people ask about them. From world‑famous sites like Stirling Castle and Loch Ness to under‑the‑radar gems, you will find practical advice, historical context and personal tips from our local guides. We’ve also suggested where to place images so your article can come alive visually.
If you’d like to leave the logistics to an expert, our small group tours from Edinburgh cover many of these destinations. You will travel in a comfortable minibus, hear stories from passionate guides and enjoy hassle‑free sightseeing. Contact us to plan your perfect day out.
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How to plan day trips from Edinburgh
When to go and how long to stay
Many of Scotland’s best attractions sit within easy reach of the capital. Spring and summer offer longer daylight hours and milder weather, but autumn colours and winter’s moody skies can make for spectacular photos. Most destinations on this list are 30–90 minutes away by train or car, although a few (like Loch Ness or the Isle of Skye) require a full day or longer. Allow extra time for meals and unexpected stops, getting there is half the fun!
Car vs Train vs Guided tour
- Driving yourself offers flexibility, but expect narrow roads, single‑track stretches and limited parking at popular spots. Book rental cars early in summer and check local driving laws.
- Trains and buses connect many destinations directly from Edinburgh Waverley or the bus station; we highlight car‑free options throughout this guide. Rail passes and advance tickets can save money. To reach remote places like Glenfinnan or Cairngorms, change to Glasgow or Inverness.
- Guided day tours combine transport, commentary and entry tickets. Our Edinburgh day trips visit multiple sites in one day and include hotel pick‑ups, giving you more time to enjoy the scenery instead of staring at a map.
1. Stirling Castle, the Kelpies & the Falkirk Wheel
This itinerary combines history and engineering marvels west of Edinburgh. Stirling Castle sits on a volcanic crag and was a favoured residence of Scottish royalty. Historic sources describe it as one of Scotland’s largest and most significant castles, controlling the key route between the Highlands and the Lowlands, which earned it the nickname “Key to the Kingdom”. Wander through the Great Hall and royal apartments and admire the Stirling Heads, intricately carved oak portraits.
Next, head to Falkirk to see two pieces of modern engineering. The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift, it links the Forth & Clyde and Union canals by raising boats 35 metres in the air in a balanced turn. The Wheel replaced a flight of 11 locks and uses only the power of about eight kettles per rotation. Nearby, the Kelpies, two gleaming horse‑head sculptures – honour Scotland’s heavy horses. Each statue stands roughly 100 feet (30 m) high and weighs over 300 tonnes, making them the largest equine sculptures in the world. They’re even more impressive up close, especially lit at night.
Join our Stirling, Kelpies & Falkirk Wheel Tour from Edinburgh to see these highlights in a single day with an expert guide.
2. Scottish Highlands & Loch Ness
If you want to experience rugged mountains, glens and one of the world’s most famous lakes in one day, head north into the Highlands. Travel through Glencoe, carved by glaciers and steeped in folklore, before arriving at Loch Ness. Stretching 23 miles (37 km) and over 230 m deep, Loch Ness holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie, the elusive creature that has fired imaginations for centuries, then wander around Urquhart Castle, whose ruins stand guard over the loch. Many tours include stops in Fort Augustus and the Cairngorms on the return journey.
Our Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Day Trip packs these highlights into one unforgettable adventure. Reserve your seat early, as this tour sells out quickly during summer.
3. St Andrews & the East Neuk of Fife
Home to Scotland’s oldest university and the “Home of Golf,” St Andrews sits about two hours from Edinburgh. Walk along the atmospheric ruins of the cathedral and castle, browse the historic university quads and perhaps play a round or simply snap photos of the Old Course Swilcan Bridge. On the return, detour along Fife’s East Neuk, a string of quaint fishing villages like Crail, Anstruther and Pittenweem. These villages boast brightly painted cottages, harbour cafés and walking paths along the shoreline.
Combine academic heritage and coastal charm on our St Andrews & East Neuk Tour, which includes time for lunch at a seaside fish bar.
4. North Berwick & Bass Rock
Only 30 minutes by train, North Berwick is an easy coastal getaway. Its long beach is perfect for strolls, and colourful shops line the High Street. Look up and you’ll see the distinctive conical shape of North Berwick Law, an extinct volcano with sweeping views of the Firth of Forth. Offshore lies Bass Rock, a volcanic island home to around 150,000 nesting northern gannets at the peak of breeding season; it’s considered the largest gannet colony in the world. Sir David Attenborough even called it one of the wildlife wonders of the world. Boat trips from the Scottish Seabird Centre allow visitors to see the gannets and the island’s historic ruins up close, though landings depend on the weather.
In town, explore Tantallon Castle, a 14th‑century fortress perched dramatically on a cliff, and sample seafood in harbour cafés.
We offer a North Berwick & Bass Rock Cruise from Edinburgh. Book early for gannet season (June–August).
5. Glasgow: Scotland’s Creative Metropolis
Scotland’s largest city offers a rich contrast to Edinburgh. In one day you can marvel at Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s architecture, tour the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, wander through the West End’s vintage shops and sample craft breweries on the Clyde waterfront. Don’t miss a visit to the Riverside Museum, whose striking design houses collections of trains, cars and tall‑ship models. Glasgow is just 50 minutes by train from Edinburgh.
Our Edinburgh to Glasgow Day Tour uncovers the city’s hidden corners, from music venues to market halls, with free time to explore.
6. Rosslyn Chapel & the Scottish Borders
Fifteen miles south of Edinburgh lies Rosslyn Chapel, built in the 15th century by William St Clair and famous for its intricate stone carvings and associations with the Holy Grail. The chapel appears in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and continues to spark myth and speculation. After exploring the chapel, venture into the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders. Towns like Melrose and Galashiels offer abbey ruins, local craft shops and gentle riverside walks. History buffs can detour to Jedburgh Abbey or Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott.
Travel back in time on our Rosslyn Chapel & Borders Day Tour featuring guided visits and afternoon tea in a traditional tearoom.
7. Queensferry, Forth Bridges & Inchcolm Island
The picturesque town of South Queensferry sits under the famous Forth Bridges. The red‑painted Forth Rail Bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; construction began in 1883, and at its peak around 4,600 men worked on the project. It officially opened in March 1890 and remains a symbol of Victorian engineering. Nearby are the modern Queensferry Crossing and Forth Road Bridge, offering striking contrasts. From the pier you can take a cruise to Inchcolm Island, where a well‑preserved 12th‑century abbey and Second World War fortifications await. Cruises often pass seals and puffins along the way.
Take our Forth Bridges & Inchcolm Island Tour to learn about the Briggers who built the bridge and explore the island’s history.
8. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Less than two hours from Edinburgh, Loch Lomond is Britain’s largest inland stretch of water. The loch and surrounding Trossachs National Park are playgrounds for hikers and boaters. Cruise from Balloch to Luss, hike the woodland trails around Ben A’an or cycle the West Loch Lomond cycle path. Charming towns like Callander and Aberfoyle offer cafés and visitor centres. On a clear day, venture up Conic Hill for a view of the Highland Boundary Fault – the geological line dividing the Highlands and Lowlands.
Our Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park Tour includes a cruise, village stops and guided walks, departing daily from Edinburgh.
9. Linlithgow Palace & Blackness Castle
History lovers should head west to Linlithgow Palace, a royal residence where Mary Queen of Scots was born. The roofless ruins still reveal grand fireplaces and ornamental windows, and the adjacent loch makes for a tranquil stroll. Nearby, Blackness Castle juts into the Firth of Forth; its unusual ship‑like shape has earned it the nickname “the ship that never sailed.” Fans of the TV series Outlander will recognise both sites as filming locations for Fort William and Wentworth Prison.
Book our Linlithgow & Blackness Castle Tour to step inside these historic ruins and hear stories of Scottish monarchs.
10. Cairngorms National Park & Aviemore
For mountain air and wildlife, venture north to Cairngorms National Park. The park boasts five of the UK’s six highest peaks, ancient Caledonian pine forests and abundant wildlife like red squirrels and ospreys. Base yourself in Aviemore, a resort town offering outdoor activities year‑round. Ride the funicular railway up Cairn Gorm, visit the Highland Wildlife Park (home to polar bears and snow leopards) or rent a bike to explore the Speyside Way. In winter the area transforms into a ski destination.
Our Cairngorms & Highlands Adventure Tour includes transport from Edinburgh, scenic stops and a visit to the wildlife park.
11. Pitlochry & Highland Distilleries
Nestled beside the River Tummel, Pitlochry is known for its Victorian architecture and salmon ladder. Walk across the dam to watch fish leap upstream, then explore the town’s boutiques and cafés. Nearby distilleries like Blair Athol and Edradour (one of Scotland’s smallest) offer whisky tastings and tours. If time allows, visit Queen’s View for a classic panorama over Loch Tummel.
Sip drams responsibly on our Whisky & Pitlochry Day Trip featuring distillery tours and safe transport back to Edinburgh.
12. Dundee & the V&A Museum
About 90 minutes north by train, Dundee has reinvented itself as a cultural hub. The striking V&A Dundee museum of design anchors the waterfront, showcasing Scottish creativity alongside international exhibitions. Other attractions include the RSS Discovery, the ship that carried Captain Scott to Antarctica; the Dundee Contemporary Arts centre; and the regenerated waterfront walkway. Combine a visit with a stop at the nearby Glamis Castle, reputedly the childhood home of the late Queen Mother.
Our Dundee & Fife Coast Day Tour pairs cutting‑edge design with coastal scenery and includes transport and museum admission.
13. Aberfeldy & Highland Safaris
Escape to the heart of Perthshire in the pretty market town of Aberfeldy. Stroll along the river to the 19th‑century Pont Tay Bridge, browse independent bookshops and sample coffee roasted locally. The nearby Highland Safaris offer Land Rover tours into the mountains to spot red deer, golden eagles and other wildlife. You can also try gold panning or visit the red squirrel reserve at Cluny House Gardens.
Let us drive while you enjoy the view on our Highland Safari & Aberfeldy Tour, departing select days from Edinburgh.
14. Outlander Filming Locations
Fans of the Outlander TV series will recognise many Scottish locations as stand‑ins for the fictional Fraser family saga. Near Edinburgh, Midhope Castle doubles as Lallybroch, and Doune Castle plays Castle Leoch. Culross becomes Cranesmuir, while Falkland stands in for 1940s Inverness. Farther afield, Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace and Glencoe also appear on screen. Even if you’re not an Outlander buff, these historic sites are worth visiting for their architecture and landscapes.
Step into the story on our Outlander Day Trip, which includes transport, entry fees and behind‑the‑scenes tales from our guides.
15. Isle of Skye (Two‑day Excursion)
While technically beyond a day trip, the Isle of Skye is too spectacular to omit. Plan on at least two days to appreciate its scenery: the fairy‑tale pinnacles of Old Man of Storr, the crystal‑blue Fairy Pools, the dramatic ridge of the Quiraing and the romantic Eilean Donan Castle. Skye’s roads are narrow and busy in summer; guided tours handle the driving and book accommodation in Portree.
Our Two‑Day Skye Adventure that departs from Edinburgh and includes accommodation, visits to Skye’s highlights and stops at Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean Donan Castle.
Car free travel & practical tips
- Trains: Direct trains run from Edinburgh to Glasgow, Stirling, North Berwick, Dundee and Inverness. Book advance tickets on ScotRail for the best fares and check for off‑peak discounts. Some routes (like Fort William for Glenfinnan) require a change in Glasgow.
- Buses: The Citylink and Stagecoach networks cover towns like Pitlochry, St Andrews and Inverness. Buses are economical but slower than trains.
- Bike & foot: Many destinations, including North Berwick, the East Neuk and the Forth Bridges, can be explored on foot or by bike once you arrive. Rent bikes locally and follow signposted trails.
- Weather: Scottish weather changes rapidly. Layer clothing, pack a waterproof jacket and carry sunscreen even in winter. Check local forecasts before hiking and be prepared for midges in summer.
- Entry tickets & tours: Major attractions such as Stirling Castle, Rosslyn Chapel and the Falkirk Wheel offer online booking. Our tours include pre‑booked tickets so you skip the queue.
Frequently asked questions
How far are day trip destinations from Edinburgh?
Most places on this list lie within a 30 to 90‑minute journey by car or train. Loch Ness, Glenfinnan and the Isle of Skye require longer drives (2 to 4 hours each way), which is why we recommend multi‑day tours for those.
Do I need a car for Edinburgh day trips?
Not necessarily. Many trips can be done by train or bus, and our guided day tours include transport. If you do drive, book rental cars early and familiarise yourself with single‑track road etiquette.
Can I visit multiple destinations in one day from Edinburgh?
Yes! Destinations like the Falkirk Wheel, Loch Lomond, Highland Wildlife Park and the Scottish Seabird Centre are particularly family friendly. Always check age restrictions for whisky distilleries and boat tours.
Can I visit multiple destinations in one day from Edinburgh?
Some trips pair naturally, for example, Stirling Castle with the Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel, or Linlithgow Palace with the Forth Bridges. Others, like St Andrews and the East Neuk, deserve a full day to appreciate properly. Our itineraries are designed to maximise your time without feeling rushed.
When is the best time to take day trips from Edinburgh?
Summer offers long days and lush landscapes, but crowds peak in July and August. Spring and autumn are quieter and bring beautiful colours. Winter can be magical, though some attractions have shorter hours.
Plan your Edinburgh day trip with us
Our passion is helping travellers experience the best of Scotland without the stress of planning. Whether you are dreaming of spotting Nessie on Loch Ness, photographing gannets at Bass Rock or admiring the engineering of the Falkirk Wheel, we have a tour to suit you. With local guides, comfortable vehicles and small group sizes, you will enjoy a personal, enriching day out. Contact us today to book your Edinburgh day trip or create a custom itinerary.
Within a short journey from Edinburgh you can discover castles, coastlines, canals and Highlands. This guide gives you an in‑depth look at the best day trips from Edinburgh, provides practical travel tips and answers common questions. We hope it inspires your next adventure and if you’d like to go beyond reading about these places, we’d love to show them to you in person.
Emma is a solo traveler and freelance travel writer from New Zealand who spent three weeks exploring the Scottish Highlands. With a deep appreciation for history and landscapes, she booked a series of day tours and a private chauffeur journey with Scotland Highland Trip. From Loch Ness to the Cairngorms, she documented her experience through vivid blog posts and drone footage.
