Edinburgh is an incredible city filled with history, culture, and charm (if you have any doubts, check out my Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh HERE). But if you have the time, there are many fantastic Scottish destinations just a short distance away that are perfect for day trips. This particular list includes day trips from Edinburgh by train and bus, making it the perfect option for travelers that don’t have a car. Taking a guided tour is also a great option. I like taking tours because it allows me to relax and let someone else take on the planning. I’ve included some of the best day trip tours from Edinburgh- definitely don’t sleep on these!
1. St. Andrews
Why Go: Known as the home of golf, St. Andrews is a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and a prestigious university.
Tour Option: St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh
Highlights:
- St. Andrews Cathedral: Explore the ruins of what was once Scotland’s largest cathedral.
- St. Andrews Castle: Visit the castle overlooking the North Sea and learn about its turbulent history.
- Old Course: Even if you’re not a golfer, walking the Old Course is a must.
Travel Tips: Take a train from Edinburgh to Leuchars, then a short bus ride to St. Andrews. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.
2. Rosslyn Chapel
Why Go: Famous from Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code,” Rosslyn Chapel is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with mysterious carvings and a fascinating history.
Tour Option: Rosslyn Chapel, Dunfermline Abbey and Stirling Castle Day Tour
Highlights:
- Chapel Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about the chapel’s history and symbolism.
- Rosslyn Glen: Take a walk through the beautiful glen surrounding the chapel.
Travel Tips: Rosslyn Chapel is about a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh. You can also take bus number 37 from the city center.
3. Glasgow
Why Go: Scotland’s largest city offers vibrant culture, impressive architecture, and a rich industrial heritage.
Tour Option: Glasgow in a Day: Private Sightseeing Tour from Edinburgh
Highlights:
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Explore this stunning museum with diverse exhibits.
- Glasgow Cathedral: Visit this medieval cathedral with its beautiful Gothic architecture.
- Buchanan Street: Enjoy shopping and dining in the city’s bustling heart.
Travel Tips: Trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow run frequently and take about an hour.
4. Linlithgow
Why Go: A picturesque town with a rich history, Linlithgow is home to the magnificent Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Tour Option: Wallace monument, Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Luxury MPV
Highlights:
- Linlithgow Palace: Explore the ruins and enjoy stunning views over Linlithgow Loch.
- St. Michael’s Parish Church: Visit this beautiful church next to the palace.
- Linlithgow Loch: Take a leisurely walk around the loch and enjoy the scenery.
Travel Tips: Linlithgow is just a 20-minute train ride from Edinburgh.
5. The Scottish Borders
Why Go: Discover rolling hills, charming villages, and historic abbeys in this picturesque region.
Tour Option: Rosslyn Chapel, Scottish Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery from Edinburgh
Highlights:
- Melrose Abbey: Explore the ruins of this beautiful 12th-century abbey.
- Abbotsford House: Visit the home of Sir Walter Scott, filled with literary history.
- Peebles: Stroll through this charming town and enjoy local shops and cafes.
Travel Tips: The Borders Railway runs from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, with Melrose and Abbotsford just a short bus ride away. The journey takes about an hour.
6. Stirling
Why Go: Rich in history, Stirling is home to a magnificent castle and the site of the famous Battle of Bannockburn.
Tour Option: Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour Including Admission
Highlights:
- Stirling Castle: Tour one of Scotland’s grandest castles with stunning views and interactive exhibits.
- Bannockburn: Visit the Bannockburn Visitor Centre and learn about the pivotal battle in Scottish history.
- The Wallace Monument: Climb to the top for panoramic views and learn about William Wallace.
Travel Tips: Trains from Edinburgh to Stirling take about an hour.
7. The Scottish Highlands
Why Go: Experience the rugged beauty of the Highlands with its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage.
Tour Option: Luxury Private Tour of The Highlands & Loch Ness from Edinburgh
Highlights:
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: Explore Scotland’s first national park with its beautiful lochs, hills, and forests.
- Glencoe: Visit this dramatic and scenic glen, known for its history and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Fort William and Ben Nevis: See the UK’s highest peak and explore the outdoor capital of the UK.
Travel Tips: While a bit farther than other day trips, you can join a guided tour from Edinburgh to the Highlands, which typically includes transportation and stops at major highlights. The journey can take around 3-4 hours each way, so start early. I have to give a special shout out to the highlands tour I listed above. It’s a splurge but it was 150% worth it. They customized our day trip for us and we were able to fit it absolutely everything we wanted to do in the Scottish Highlands. If you’re looking for something truly special, I highly recommend this one based on my own personal experience.
Interested in more of the Scottish Highlands? Check out my Ultimate Guide to the Scottish Highlands HERE.
Each of these day trips from Edinburgh offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s history, culture, and natural beauty. They are all easily accessible from Edinburgh, making them perfect for a quick escape from the city. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders just beyond Edinburgh’s doorstep!
If you’re looking for more information on where to stay in Edinburgh, check out my latest post: Cheval Old Town Chambers Edinburgh Review.
Have you taken any of these day trips from Edinburgh? Share your experiences in the comments below!
