15 Wonderful Day Trips From Edinburgh | Castles, Mountains & Pretty Little Villages
Whether you’re seeking a day at the seaside, exploring pretty little villages, or an adventure in the Highlands, this guide to the best day trips from Edinburgh has you covered.
Edinburgh is an incredible city, full of culture, beautiful architecture, and an unrivalled foodie scene. Its undoubtedly one of the best UK cities to spend a weekend. But it’s also perfectly placed for exploring further afield - and the best day trips from Edinburgh easily transport you from the busy city to the most idyllic spots.
From quaint harbour villages to breathtakingly wild landscapes, there is a wealth of beautiful destinations. All a short distance from Scotland’s capital city.
You can choose to focus on the cultural, historical, active, relaxation, castles, gastronomy, pretty little seaside towns, forest trails, city slicking, and mountain adventures, and then the next day switch up your itinerary entirely. As such, Edinburgh is perfectly placed to act as a base for travellers looking to have a combination of very different itineraries: a fantastic city break combined with the opportunity to easily explore other iconic parts of Scotland.
Quick Book: Our Top Day Trips
1. The wild Scottish Highlands: 3-hour drive or this tour.
2. Historic St Andrews and East Neuk: 1.5 hour drive or this tour.
3. Coastal South Queensferry: 30-minute drive or this tour.
Travel tip: We love the easiness of tours, but a car will give you the most freedom to explore. We use Discover Cars for our car rental in Scotland, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Hertz, Enterprise, or Sixt. Book your car with Discover Cars here.
We lived in the Capital for 15 years and took a lot of day trips during that time, filling our weekends and holidays with one day getaways to the coast and countryside. So, based on our experiences, we’ve curated the very best day trips from Edinburgh to help you choose your own adventure - alongside practical tips to help plan it.
And, because we know that driving on unfamiliar roads can be stressful, we’ve included the best one-day tours leaving the city centre.
So, whether you’re seeking wild places in the Scottish Highlands or quaint villages on the coast, I guarantee you’ll find a day trip to suit your travel style. Here are the best day trips from Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Day Trips | Transport Essentials
I’ve given you a rough idea of the travel time by car and the options for public transport. However, in rural areas, buses and trains are often limited and require careful planning.
Hiring a car will give you the most freedom to explore. We use Discover Cars for our car rental in Scotland, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Hertz, Enterprise, or Sixt.
With that in mind, get comfortable with single-track roads and passing places ahead of your trip. Why not read our guide to driving in Scotland?
Finally, guided tours are a brilliant way to explore Scotland without the stress of driving. We’ve listed our favourites below - all are highly rated, leave from Edinburgh city centre, last around 12 hours, and include transport and a local guide.
Best day trips from Edinburgh
1. Glencoe
Breathtaking Glencoe is an incredible day trip from Edinburgh in the Scottish Highlands. Famous for its soaring mountains, awe-inspiring landscapes, and epic hikes, it’s one of the most picturesque places in Scotland and remains largely unspoilt and wild.
There are heaps of outdoorsy things to do in Glencoe, like the easy woodland trail Glencoe Lochan and Signal Rock, so be sure to pack your walking boots.
Best for: a trip to the Scottish Highlands.
On your own: Glencoe is easily accessible from Edinburgh by car, with a journey time of around three hours on the A84. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore, and there are so many spectacular viewpoints along the route that you’ll definitely want to stop!
Public transport: Unfortunately, there isn’t direct public transport between Edinburgh and Glencoe, but you can take the train to Glasgow and then take a bus from there to Glencoe (the 914/915 Uig service). Find the full timetable here.
Tour: Visit Glencoe and the surrounding Highlands on this highly rated and reasonably priced full-day tour to Glencoe and Glenfinnan, Fort William.
2. East Neuk Harbour Villages
A trip to the fishing villages in the East Neuk of Fife is like taking a step back in history. Charming villages like Elie, Pittenweem, St Monans, and Crail scatter along the east coast, just north of Edinburgh. Famous for its historic harbours and sandy beaches, you’ll love this day trip from Edinburgh for its coastal views, seafood cafes, and whitewashed cottages.
Stroll these fishing villages' old, narrow streets and discover the picturesque 18th-century houses with their distinctive pantile roofs. To get the most out of your visit, walk the coastal path between the villages - Elie to Anstruther is my favourite section.
Best for: a day by the seaside
On your own: Fife’s East Neuk is a straightforward day trip from Edinburgh. The journey is a short 1 hour 25-minute drive, plus you’ll get to soak in the Firth of Forth views from the Queensferry Crossing. It’s possible to visit three or four East Neuk villages in a day. Though I’d recommend extending your Fife trip to a weekend and seeing more of the coast - the best part is from Lower Largo to St Andrews.
Public transport: Alternatively, take public transport; there’s a regular bus service from Edinburgh to the East Neuk villages, plus a train to nearby pretty Lower Largo.
Tour: This fishing villages of Fife day trip tour is a popular option that combines the Fife Coastal Route with St Andrews and a stop in the historic village of Falkland.
3. St Andrews
Another fantastic day trip from Edinburgh, the historic town of St Andrews on the Fife coast, is a must.
Though known for its university and golf courses, St Andrews is an ancient town rich in history, architecture, quaint streets, a cathedral, harbour, castle, and charming old stone buildings. It’s easy to lose track of time in St Andrews; there’s so much to explore and gorgeous hotels to stay in that you can easily turn a day trip into a long weekend.
Away from the hustle & bustle of town, there are two beaches to choose from. Plus, with one of the best sections of the long-distance coastal path running over the cliffs, it’s a fantastic place to walk. Meanwhile, foodies will love the incredible eateries in St Andrews. For a small town, there’s a booming gastronomy scene and cafes and restaurants tucked away every corner.
Best for: architecture, eateries, and coastal town vibes
On your own: Another easy day trip from Edinburgh, it’s a short 1 hour 20 minute drive from the capital. Or, for a more extended day trip, visit St Andrews alongside the nearby East Neuk villages for a wonderful day by the sea.
Public transport: It is possible to get to St Andrews by train; however, be aware that the train station is 6 miles outside of the town (in nearby Leuchars), and you’ll want to pre-book a local taxi to get into St Andrews. Alternatively, there is a bus directly from Edinburgh to St Andrews (bus service X59), and even with a journey time of two hours, this is by far the easiest option. Find the full timetable here.
Top tours to book: This St Andrews and Fife harbour villages tour is a popular option that combines St Andrews with Fife’s coastal villages and a stop in the historic Falkland.
Walking tour: Walk around St Andrews with an expert guide who’ll share historical gems and take you to all those essential hidden gems. We recommend this top sights guided walking tour.
4. South Queensferry
One of the most leisurely day trips from Edinburgh, the coastal village of South Queensferry is a gorgeous place to explore. Once here, follow the cobbled streets to the village centre. Here, you’ll find the most picturesque views of the Forth Bridges, an array of really excellent cafes and coffee shops, and boat trips. If the tide is low, stroll along the rocky beach and wander on the pier.
It’s also easy to extend your day trip and cross the bridge to explore West Fife - the villages of North Queensferry, Limekilns, and Culross are equally worth a visit.
Best for: boat trips, sea views, and excellent eateries.
On your own: One of the easiest and most popular Edinburgh day trips. South Queensferry is a super quick 30-minute drive from the city centre. The local bus takes around 50 minutes and is a better option than the train (which involves a 20-minute uphill walk).
Tour: this full-day bus tour includes a boat trip on the Firth of Forth!
Activities: we highly recommend this Firth of Forth Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise and this sightseeing Cruise to Inchcolm Island.
5. Glenfinnan Viaduct
A Highlands gem, Glenfinnan is an iconic spot you shouldn’t miss on a day trip from Edinburgh. Nestled in the hills is one of Scotland’s most famous sights - the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Best known for its tall arches, the equally iconic Jacobite steam train - or Hogwarts Express - crosses over the viaduct between spring and autumn. Once here, stroll under the viaduct, walk the woodland trail, and visit the Jacobite monument overlooking Loch Shiel.
You can also climb the small but steep hill for panoramic views of the Viaduct from above - this is the best place to photograph the steam train. Remember, it’s an exposed hillside; you’ll need sturdy boots and a warm jacket!
Best for: the famous steam train, lochs, glens, and mountains.
On your own: At a journey time of just over 3 hours, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a reasonably long drive from Edinburgh; however, it is very much worth the effort. Your best option is to combine a trip to the famous bridge with a visit to Glencoe and/or Fort William, meaning you get to experience a magnificent part of the Scottish Highlands.
Public transport: There’s no direct public transport from Edinburgh to Glenfinnan. However, you can switch trains in Glasgow.
Tour: This full-day tour visits Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe on a sweeping tour of the wild Scottish Highlands.
6. Fort William
Offering visitors an eclectic mix of outdoor adventures, a busy high street, and thriving foodie scene, the northern town of Fort William is a perfect for a day trip from Edinburgh. Situated between Glencoe and Glenfinnan, Fort William sits on the shores of Loch Linnhe in the western highlands.
There’re heaps to do in and around the town, but most activities focus on outdoor adventures. From its main attraction Ben Nevis, to less challenging but beautiful walks like magnificent Steall Waterfall, safe to say, you should pack your walking boots.
One of my favourite things to do is this this boat trip out on Loch Linnhe, where you’ll spot seals, otters, and dolphins; it’s a fun activity for couples and families alike.
Best for: Scottish Highland adventures, Ben Nevis, great food, and getting outdoors.
On your own: Given Fort William’s proximity to Glencoe, it makes sense to combine a trip to both towns. The drive time is around 2 hours 40 minutes from Edinburgh, and this route passes through some of Scotland’s most magnificent scenery.
Public transport: There’s no direct public transport from Edinburgh but you can switch to the train or bus in Glasgow.
Tour: for the most immersive Scottish Highlands experience, book this Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe day trip.
Activities: one of our favourite activities in Fort William, this seal spotting Loch Linnhe cruise is a real gem.
7. Loch Lomond
For a day trip from Edinburgh that’s sure to reconnect you with nature, a visit to Loch Lomond in the Trossachs National Park is a must. One of the most beautiful lochs in Scotland, around its bank are a scattering of quaint villages, such as pretty Luss and Balmaha, quaint little cafes, pretty cottages, beaches, and lochside walking and cycling paths.
Don’t miss the chance to take a Loch Lomond boat trip and explore the islands hidden on the loch. Or find the best spots for a wild swim. If you want to hike whilst here, there are plenty of trails. But Ben Lomond is the best mountain for incredible summit views, plus it’s one of the easiest Munros for beginners.
Best for: nature lovers, walkers, spectacular scenery, and boat trips.
On your own: Located around a 1.5-hour drive from Edinburgh, there’s no public transport to Loch Lomond. But your journey along the M9 is scenic, with a stop at The Kelpies or Stirling Castle a must.
Top tour to book: this full-day Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies tour.
Activities: book this Loch Lomond sightseeing cruise for the most glorious mountain and loch views.
8. Loch Ness
I’m often asked if it’s possible to do a day trip to Loch Ness from Edinburgh. The answer is yes - but be prepared for a long drive and lots to see in one day.
Once here, highlights include boat trips on Loch Ness. It’s the deepest loch in Scotland, and with the folklore surrounding the infamous monster, it's definitely the most iconic. For history lovers, a tour of Urquhart Castle is a must. And if you’re seeking more time outdoors, Loch Ness is surrounded by beautiful trails and viewpoints, like the stunning Falls of Foyers.
Best for: iconic Scottish destination, lochs, mountains, and castles.
On your own: As mentioned, a journey from Edinburgh to Loch Ness is possible, but the drive will take around 3.5 hours one-way, and there is a lot to see along the route. My advice is to start early!
Top tour to book: there are a handful of options, but this popular Loch Ness, Glencoe, Highlands & Ben Nevis tour is the most comprehensive and highly-rated.
Activities: Go Nessie hunting on this Loch Ness cruise with spectacular views over the ruins of Urquhart Castle.
9. Perthshire
Located around 1.5 hours north of Edinburgh, leafy Perthshire makes the perfect day trip from Edinburgh. Home to historic market towns, pretty conservation villages, and the best forest walks in Scotland, there’s so much to see in this beautiful county. The small towns of Dunkeld, Comrie, Pitlochry, Killin, Kenmore, and Aberfeldy are all perfect for a day trip. Each has gorgeous cafes and boutique stores to explore.
Several woodland trails will take you through Perthshire’s towering forests. Don’t miss those at the Hermitage, Faskally Forest, and Birks of Aberfeldy. Waterfall hunters will love the Falls of Dochart at the pretty village of Killin.
Best for: historic villages & forest walks
On your own: Depending on your chosen destination, expect your drive time to be around 1 hour 30 minutes. If you have your own vehicle, you can hop between two or three of Perthshire’s villages and towns, which is a lovely way to spend a day. I recommend Dunkeld, Pitlochry, and The Hermitage for a really charming day trip.
Public transport: Public transport between Edinburgh and rural Perthshire is theoretically possible. However, it’s complicated and relies on too many changes of rural buses, so you’ll need your own car for this day trip.
Top tour to book: we like this Scone Palace, Hunting Castle & Waterfall tour.
10. Inveraray
Inveraray is a charming town on the west coast of Scotland and a stunning place to visit, full of history and gorgeous views. Often overlooked by travellers, this town in Argyll is worth a day trip from Edinburgh.
Situated on the banks of Loch Fyne, the 18th-century town is all whitewashed buildings and coastal views. Once here, visit Inveraray Castle, then explore along the waterfront before lunch in a local cafe. Give yourself plenty of time to stop as the route passes Kilchurn Castle, the village of Luss on Loch Lomond, and the stunning Rest & Be Thankful mountain pass.
Best for: charming coastal town and sea views.
On your own: Another easy location to visit from Edinburgh, drive time is 2 hours and your journey passes through some of Scotland’s most gorgeous scenery.
Public transport: Unfortunately, there’s no public transport, but with so many stunning viewpoints, you’ll want the freedom of your vehicle for this Edinburgh day trip.
Top tour to book: our favourite option is this spectacular West Highland Lochs & Castles full-day trip.
11. North Berwick
A pretty seaside town with heaps of coffee shops and glorious coastal views, North Berwick is the perfect day trip from Edinburgh.
Only 50 minutes from the capital, North Berwick is in East Lothian, overlooking the Firth of Forth. The town offers visitors a mix of seaside charm and thriving cafe culture. Once here, walk along the sandy beach, stroll the high street, get lost amongst the quaint cottages, and explore the harbour.
One of the highlights is a boat trip to Bass Rock, a dramatic volcanic plug with an iconic white lighthouse. While not too far from North Berwick, visiting the dramatic Tantallon Castle a little further along the coast is also easy. Strap on your hiking boots and walk the 3-mile-long coastal path from the town centre.
Best for: seaside charm, excellent cafes, cafes and coastal walks.
On your own: Trains run hourly from Edinburgh to North Berwick, with a journey time of around 35 minutes and a single ticket costing £4.40 per person.
Public transport: Take the local Edinburgh North Berwick X5 bus, departing from St Andrews bus station in the city centre. Travel time is around 60 minutes, and the regular bus runs once an hour - check the full timetable here.
Top tours to book: this excellent North Berwick Day Tour.
12. Three Lochs Forest Drive + Loch Katrine
A gem in the Trossachs National Park, Three Lochs Forest Drive and nearby Loch Katrine are stunning spots you shouldn’t miss. An easy day trip from Edinburgh, the Three Lochs Forest Drive trail is a 7-mile-long drive passing three stunning lochs and hundreds of acres of ancient woodland. Surrounding the drive are hills and mountains, like the peak of Ben A’an.
Nearby, Loch Katrine is an equally beautiful place that packs Scotland's best into an easily accessible Edinburgh day out. There are picnic spots to enjoy lunch al fresco, sparkling waters, and, of course, miles and miles of forest trail to explore.
Best for: Scotland in miniature and boat cruises.
On your own: Situated between the villages of Aberfoyle and Callander, you’ll need your own car to explore the drive. But the journey from Edinburgh to Three Lochs Forest Drive is a really lovely one, much of it through Trossachs National Park countryside. Drive time is around 1 hour 20 minutes.
Activities: this Loch Katrine paddle boat cruise is a real gem and you’ll cross the pretty loch on a historic paddle steamer. It’s a truly unique experience with the most stunning Scottish landscape.
Final thoughts…
We absolutely love Edinburgh - it’s one of our favourite places! But getting out of the city and experiencing other parts of Scotland is a must for travellers.
Scotland has so much to offer, and its wilder places and charming coastline offer a very different experience than its cosmopolitan cities. And many of Scotland’s most iconic places lie outside the city, in places like Glenfinnan and Loch Ness.
Majestic castles, coastal trails, pretty little villages, distilleries, mountains and lochs - these are just some of the highlights on offer on a day trip from Edinburgh. So, if you can, plan a trip out of the city and immerse yourself in spectacular Scottish landscapes.
