Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a stunning city with numerous unique attractions that offer fascinating experiences for visitors. However, if you’ve already explored much of the city and are eager to discover more of Scotland, you have plenty of options! Scotland is incredibly beautiful, and here are 10 must-see destinations perfect for day trips from Edinburgh.
I’ve divided the list into two parts:
Part 1: Places you can easily reach by public transport for a fun day trip
Part 2: Places that are a bit further afield but totally worth the effort for an extended journey.
Many of these spots are iconic, so finding a tour will be a breeze.
For the more distant destinations, renting a car is your best bet due to the longer travel times by public transportation. If you don’t have a car, no worries—consider booking a tour. International Student Tours (Edinburgh) is a budget-friendly option that I’ve personally used multiple times, but keep in mind they don’t offer refunds. If you prefer exploring at your own pace and have a car, plan to stay overnight in nearby towns to fully soak in the local charm. Check out the detailed suggestions for these farther destinations below!
**The attractions are arranged in order from the nearest to the farthest.
Table of contents
Part 1: Day-Trip Destinations Reachable by Public Transportation
1. Jupiter Artland
Jupiter Artland is a contemporary sculpture park and art gallery set in the picturesque countryside just outside Edinburgh. It offers a unique blend of art and nature, with large-scale sculptures and installations spread across the park.
Key Attractions:
- Interactive and immersive art installations
- Beautifully landscaped gardens
- Regular exhibitions and events
Getting There:
- By car: Jupiter Artland is approximately a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh city center.
- By public transport: Opting for public transport, you can take the bus X27 directly to Jupiter Artland. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. The bus stop, Coxydene, is conveniently located right at the gate of Jupiter Artland. However, it's advisable to check the bus schedule in advance as the service runs infrequently.
Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Open seasonally, typically from May to September, from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
- Admission Fees: Adults about £11.80, Concessions £10.80, Children £7.50 (2024). Check the website for up-to-date details: Jupiter Artland Tickets
- Facilities: Café, gift shop, and restrooms available.
2. The Kelpies
The Kelpies, two 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures, are a modern engineering marvel located in The Helix park near Falkirk. These impressive structures celebrate the horse-powered heritage of Scotland.
Things to Do:
- Guided tours: Take a tour inside The Kelpies to learn about their construction and significance. Guided tours can be purchased if you wish to explore the interiors on this website.
- The Helix Park: Enjoy the extensive parklands, walking and cycling trails, and playgrounds.
- Visitor Center: Explore interactive exhibits, a gift shop, and a café. The visitor center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Getting There:
- By car: A 40-55 minute drive from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: The whole trip takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Falkirk Grahamston, then transfer to bus no. 2 or X38.
Note: You can purchase a guided tour, but if you just want to walk around, there's no need to buy anything.
3. Abbotsford House
Abbotsford House, the former residence of Sir Walter Scott, is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts. Located in the Scottish Borders, this historic house offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of Scotland's greatest writers.
Key Attractions:
- Richly decorated interior: Explore the rooms filled with Scott's collections, including armor, weapons, and rare books.
- Extensive Library: Home to over 9,000 rare volumes collected by Scott.
- Beautiful gardens: Stroll through the well-maintained gardens and enjoy riverside walks along the River Tweed.
Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Admission Fees: You can check the website for details: Abbotsford House Tickets and Opening Times
- Facilities: Visitor center with café, gift shop, and restrooms.
Getting There:
- By car: About 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Take the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Galashiels, then change to bus 67 or 68 from Galashiels Transport Interchange to Galafoot Bridge.
4. Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond, part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, is Scotland's largest freshwater loch and offers a range of outdoor activities and stunning landscapes.
Key Attractions:
- Boat Cruises: Explore the loch by boat, with regular cruises departing from Balloch.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous trails, including the famous West Highland Way.
- Picturesque Villages: Visit charming villages like Luss and Balmaha for a taste of local culture.
Practical Information:
- Activities: Water sports, fishing, and wildlife watching are popular activities.
- Facilities: There are many visitor centers around the lake that provide information, restrooms, and dining options.
Getting There:
- By car: About 1 hour 45 minutes drive from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: About 2.5 hours from Edinburgh. Take the ScotRail train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street Station, then transfer to another train heading towards Balloch. Alight at Alexandria train station and board bus 305. Alternatively, you can opt for the Megabus 900 to Glasgow (Buchanan Bus Station), then catch bus 977 to Bypass stop.
Part 2: Destinations Best Explored by Car or with a Tour
5. Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the North Sea, is one of Scotland's most iconic and photographed castles. Located near Stonehaven, this medieval fortress played a crucial role in Scottish history, including protecting the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell's forces. Additionally, it is one of the two castles in Scotland that inspired DunBroch from Disney's "Brave."
Key Attractions:
- Spectacular Coastal Views: The castle offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and the rugged coastline.
- Historical significance: Learn about the castle's role in Scottish history and the dramatic events that took place here.
- Castle ruins: Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the keep, chapel, and barracks.
Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Vary by season; typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For the most current hours, please refer to the website.
- Admission Fees: For the latest ticket prices, you can check at here.
- You should wear sturdy shoes because the path up to the castle can be steep and uneven.
Getting There:
- By car: About 2 hours and 30 minutes drive from Edinburgh.
- By public transport:
- Travel time: About 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Route: Take the LNER or ScotRail from Edinburgh Waverley to Stonehaven, then transfer to bus 107.
Given the distance, driving is recommended. However, if you don’t have a car:
- Tours: Consider joining a tour that includes Dunnottar Castle along with other attractions.
- Solo Travelers: If you are traveling solo without a car and want to explore independently, use public transport and plan to stay overnight. This allows you to fully explore:
- Stonehaven: A charming coastal town with a picturesque harbor and historical sites.
- Aberdeen: Known as the "Granite City," Aberdeen is famous for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It's only a 20-minute train ride from Stonehaven.
6. Glencoe
Glencoe, a dramatic and scenic glen in the Scottish Highlands, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and tragic history. It's a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled outdoor experience. Additionally, Glencoe has served as a backdrop for several iconic films, including "Braveheart," "Skyfall" from the Bond series, and most notably as the location of Hagrid's hut and the Hogwarts covered bridge in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" (2004), adding to its allure and cinematic charm.
Scenic Highlights:
- The Three Sisters: Iconic mountains offering stunning views and challenging hikes.
- Glencoe Visitor Center: Provides information on the area's history, geology, and wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Various trails catering to different levels of difficulty and offering spectacular scenery.
Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.
- Facilities: Visitor center with cafe, restrooms and parking.
Getting There:
- By car: About 3 hours drive from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: Approximately 4 hours by train or bus from Edinburgh. If you don't have a car, I recommend taking a tour. Glencoe is one of Scotland's highlights, and many tour companies offer trips to the area. This way, you can explore multiple photo spots as the tour guide shows you around.
7. Fort William and Ben Nevis
Fort William, known as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK," is a hub for adventure activities and a gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Its close proximity to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, makes it an ideal base for exploring one of Scotland’s most famous natural landmarks.
Key Attractions:
- Ben Nevis: Towering at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), Ben Nevis offers a challenging but rewarding climb. The most popular route, known as the Mountain Track (or Pony Track), starts from Glen Nevis Visitor Centre and takes about 7-8 hours for the round trip. For experienced climbers, the Carn Mor Dearg Arête route provides a more technical ascent with stunning views.
- West Highland Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the Highlands, with exhibits covering everything from Jacobite history to local archaeology
- Neptune's Staircase: A series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal, this engineering marvel lifts boats 19 meters (62 feet) over a quarter of a mile. It's an impressive sight and a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
Outdoor activities:
- Mountain Biking: The surrounding trails offer some of the best mountain biking in the UK, catering to all skill levels.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: During winter months, the Nevis Range Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding with stunning views over the Highlands.
- Hiking: Besides climbing Ben Nevis, the area boasts numerous other hiking trails, such as the Steall Falls trail in Glen Nevis, which leads to one of Scotland's highest waterfalls.
Practical Information:
- Accommodation: Fort William offers a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Consider staying at a place with easy access to both the town center and the start of the Ben Nevis trail.
- Dining: The town has a variety of restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Scottish dishes.
- Gear and Supplies: There are several outdoor gear shops in Fort William where you can rent or buy equipment for climbing and hiking.
Getting there
- By car: Drive from Edinburgh to Fort William(approximately 3.5 to 4 hours). This scenic route takes you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.
- By public transport: Approximately 4-5 hours from Edinburgh, involving multiple buses or trains.If you don't have a car, I definitely recommend traveling with a tour for this destination.
If you do have a car and want to explore on your own, consider staying for a while to also visit nearby Glenfinnan and its iconic Harry Potter Bridge.
8. Harry Potter Bridge (Glenfinnan)
The Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously known as the Harry Potter Bridge, is an iconic railway viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films. Located near Fort William, it's a must-visit for fans of the series.
Highlights:
- The Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express): Take a ride on this iconic train that crosses the viaduct.
- Loch Shiel: Enjoy stunning views of the loch from the viaduct.
Practical Information:
- Best viewing spots: The car park and visitor center offer excellent vantage points.
- Visitor Center: Provides information on the viaduct and its role in the Harry Potter films.
- Schedule: To see or ride the Jacobite Steamship, visit this location from March to October. Check timetables and ticket prices on the site West Coast Railways
Getting there
- By car: About 3-4 hours from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: Approximately 5-6 hours from Edinburgh, including several bus trips.
Given the journey time, joining a tour is recommended for a more seamless experience. If you have a car, consider staying in Fort William and then driving 30 minutes to Glenfinnan. Fort William offers additional attractions and makes a great base for your visit.
9. Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and Urquhart Castle offer a perfect blend of myth and history. Often the first destination that comes to mind when exploring Scotland, everyone is eager to see where the famous monster supposedly resides. Loch Ness is one of the deepest lakes in the UK, with depths reaching 755 feet (230 meters). When I was small, I read countless stories about the mysterious Loch Ness Monster and was scared of her, but I never imagined that one day I would have the chance to visit her home!
Key Attractions:
- Urquhart Castle: Explore historic ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Loch Ness.
- Boat Cruises: Take a cruise on Loch Ness to search for Nessie and appreciate the loch's natural beauty.
- Loch Ness Center & Exhibition: Learn about the history and legend of the Loch Ness Monster.
Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Urquhart Castle is open daily from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
- Admission Fees: For details, visit the website.
- Facilities: Visitor center with cafe, gift shop and restrooms.
Getting there
- By car: About 3.5 hours from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: Approximately 5-7 hours from Edinburgh, involving multiple buses and trains. Due to the lengthy and complex journey, it's not recommended to travel by public transportation. Instead, consider joining a tour. There are multiple options available, as Loch Ness is a popular destination for tourists.
10. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle stands as one of Scotland's most picturesque and photographed castles, nestled on a small tidal island where three lochs converge. Its stunning beauty and historical significance make it a must-see attraction. Notable movies filmed here include "Highlander”,”Maid Of Honour” and "The World Is Not Enough" from the James Bond series.
Key Attractions:
- Castle Interior: Explore the beautifully restored rooms, including the Banqueting Hall and the Billeting Room.
- Panoramic Views Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh from the castle grounds.
- Visitor Center: Immerse yourself in the castle's rich history and enjoy refreshments at the on-site café.
Practical Information:
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM with seasonal variations. Check fees and opening seasons here.
- Admission Fees: Admission tickets can only be purchased on-site, on the day of the visit.
- Facilities: Visitor center, gift shop, café, and restrooms.
Getting There:
- By car: About 4.5 hours from Edinburgh.
- By public transport: About 6 hours and 40 minutes from Edinburgh. Take the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness, then catch bus 917 from there.
For a comprehensive visit, I recommend joining a tour that includes multiple destinations, including a stop at Eilean Donan Castle. Alternatively, for travelers with a car seeking to spend more time at the castle, consider staying in Fort William and taking a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Eilean Donan Castle.
While Edinburgh itself is a treasure trove of history and culture, the surrounding areas offer equally captivating experiences. From the mysterious Dunnottar Castle to the majestic Ben Nevis, and from the enchanting Eilean Donan Castle to the legendary Loch Ness, there are plenty of adventures waiting. So, next time you're in Edinburgh, take the opportunity to explore these nearby gems and enrich your Scottish journey.
Happy travels!
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