10 BEST Day Trips from Edinburgh With & Without a Car

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Looking for the best day trips from Edinburgh—with or without a car? After spending several weeks traveling through the UK, we made Edinburgh our home base and explored as much of the surrounding region as we could. What we discovered was a treasure trove of destinations, all reachable in just a day. These destinations ranged from charming seaside villages and fairytale castles to dramatic Highland views and history-soaked towns.

In this guide, we’re sharing our top 10 best day trips from Edinburgh that you can do with or without a car. Each location is carefully curated from our own experience, chosen for its beauty, uniqueness, and accessibility. Whether you’re hopping on a scenic train ride or setting off on a peaceful drive, these day trips from Edinburgh are all manageable in a single day with most under 2 hours from Edinburgh, with a few rewarding options just a bit further.

We did the bulk of our exploring in July and absolutely loved the long summer daylight hours—some days stretching over 16 hours of light! That said, many of these day trips from Edinburgh are just as magical in the autumn, winter, and spring. If you visit around Christmas, you might even catch a few twinkly surprises that add a bit of festive charm to your journey.

10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh With a Car

During our time in Edinburgh, we discovered that some of the most unforgettable places in Scotland are just a short journey away. From medieval castles to misty lochs, here are our favorite day trips from Edinburgh worth making time for.

1. St. Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife

Best Described as: Medieval University Town and Quaint Fishing Village
Travel Time: ~ 1 hour 20 minute drive each way

We fell completely in love with St Andrews, a seaside town that feels equal parts medieval and modern. Known as the “home of golf” and home to one of the oldest universities in the world, it’s packed with character and history at every turn. We spent the day exploring the dramatic ruins of St Andrews Cathedral , wandering through its weathered stone walls and climbing the tower for sweeping views over the coastline. Nearby, St Andrews Castle, perched on the cliffs above the sea, adds to the sense of timelessness.

Even if you’re not into golf, strolling past the Old Course. This course has rolling greens and legendary status. And for food lovers, St Andrews doesn’t disappoint. Between the artisanal bakeries, cozy pubs, and cafés tucked into back alleys, we could’ve spent a full day just grazing our way through town.

After soaking in St Andrews, we followed the Fife Coastal Route south through the East Neuk of Fife, a string of charming fishing villages that feel like they’ve barely changed in centuries. We stopped in Anstruther for lunch where the fish & chips truly lived up to the hype. Sitting on the pier with a crispy fish supper as the gull’s circled overhead was one of those simple, perfect travel moments.

Just down the coast in Crail, where we wandered narrow lanes lined with whitewashed cottages with red pantile roofs, and admired the tiny working harbor that looks like something out of a painting.

If you’re visiting between April and September, you can also take a boat from Anstruther to the Isle of May, a nature reserve island that’s home to puffins, seals, and other seabirds. We didn’t have time for it on our first visit, but it’s high on our list for next time. This part of Scotland is full of quiet magic—the kind of place where history, nature, and small-town charm all meet the sea.

👉While in St. Andrews, we enjoyed this 1 1/2 hour guided tour that took us through St Andrews’ Cathedral, St Andrews’ Castle, the Old Course, the University of St. Andrews and hidden gems that most visitors miss.

2. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs (via Kelpies & Stirling)

Best Described as: National Park Landscapes with Fun Stops En Route
Travel Time: ~1.5 hour drive each way

This day trip combines some of the most striking nature and iconic landmarks we’ve come across in Scotland. We started by heading west from Edinburgh and made our first stop in Falkirk, about 40 minutes away, to visit The Kelpies. The Kelpies are two towering, 90-foot steel horse-head sculptures that rise dramatically from the canal park. I’d seen photos before, but standing beneath them in person was something else entirely. They’re actually the tallest horse statues in the world, and they somehow feel both powerful and peaceful. We only spent about 30 minutes there, but it is absolutely worth it if you’re anywhere nearby.

From there, we continued about 25 minutes to Stirling, which is a must if you haven’t already been. (You can see more information on stopping in Stirling if you look at #7).

Next, we headed to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park , Scotland’s first national park and one of the most breathtaking places we’ve visited. The park is huge, and since we were only planning to be there for the afternoon, we focused on the southern stretches. We hiked Conic Hill from Balmaha, a short but steep trail that opens up to sweeping views over the loch and its tiny, forested islands (on a clear day, it’s absolutely stunning). If hiking isn’t your thing, there are easier ways to enjoy the landscape too. For example, on the western shore you will find Luss, which is a postcard-perfect village for a Loch side stroll.

3. Glencoe and the Highlands

Best Described as: Epic Mountain Scenery  
Travel Time: ~ 3 hour drive each way

If you’re craving wild, untamed beauty, a long day trip to Glencoe is something you’ll never forget. The drive alone is worth the effort because this is one of those rare routes where the journey really is part of the adventure. We left early to make the most of the daylight and found ourselves stopping constantly along the way to take in the scenery. The road winds past Rannoch Moor, an eerie, otherworldly expanse of bog and loch, before giving way to the soaring peaks of the Scottish Highlands. As we approached Glencoe, the view of Buachaille Etive Mòr , a near-perfect pyramid of a mountain guarding the entrance to the glen, which literally made us pull over in awe.

Once inside the glen, the landscape feels nothing short of cinematic. We parked at the Three Sisters viewpoint where three steep ridges rise dramatically from the valley floor. This is stunning from every angle, especially when low mist rolls across the peaks. There are a few great walks nearby, if you have time. The Glencoe Lochan trail is an easy loop around a quiet forested lake, and The Lost Valley hike is a more challenging trek into a hidden glen that once sheltered clans. We also stopped by the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where we learned about the area’s haunting history. In particular, the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, is a story that adds depth to the already dramatic setting. It’s a long day from Edinburgh (about three hours each way), but every second is worth it. Glencoe’s raw, rugged beauty has stayed with us long after we returned home.

4. Dunnottar Castle (Aberdeenshire)

Best Described as: A Cliffside Castle Ruin with jaw-dropping Views
Travel Time: ~ 2.5 hours each way

For those willing to venture a bit farther from Edinburgh, Dunnottar Castle is absolute jaw-dropper. It is set dramatically on a rocky headland just outside Stonehaven, the castle is surrounded by steep cliffs and the crashing waves of the North Sea on three sides. If you are fortunate to set your visit for sunrise or sunset, your photos will be even more beautiful.

We parked above the coast and followed a steep path down and then up again to reach the fortress. It’s a bit of a climb, but trust me, the views are worth every step. On the day we were there it was clear (which isn’t always the case), the water below was a unique shade of blue, and the sea breeze made the place feel alive with history.

The ruins themselves are hauntingly beautiful. Once an impenetrable stronghold of the Earls Marischal, Dunnottar is best known as the hiding place of the Scottish Crown Jewels during Oliver Cromwell’s siege. As you wander through the roofless stone halls, peer into the tower house, and discover the tiny clifftop chapel, it’s easy to imagine the fierce defenses and dramatic moments that took place here. We spotted seabirds soaring below the cliffs and took what felt like a hundred photos before even reaching the entrance.

If you’re making the trip by car, it’s a great idea to pair Dunnottar with a stop in Stonehaven, where the harbor is charming. The castle is open year-round, and while summer brings lush green grass and blue skies, a stormy winter visit can be just as magical—wild, windswept, and totally unforgettable. Just be sure to bring layers since the coastal winds are no joke!

Day Trips from Edinburgh without a Car

During our time in Edinburgh, we found that some of our favorite adventures happened without ever needing to rent a car. From catching a train to the coast to hopping on a bus to the Highlands, getting out of the city was easier (and more scenic) than we imagined.

5. North Berwick (East Lothian)

Best Described as: Seaside Charm and Wildlife
Travel Time:~ 30 minute train ride each way

Tucked along the East Lothian coast, North Berwick is one of Scotland’s most charming seaside towns and this adventure makes for an unforgettable day trip from Edinburgh (or if you are in a time crunch you can probably fit it into a 1/2 day). With its golden sandy beaches, quaint harbor, and postcard-worthy coastal views, it’s easy to see why locals and travelers alike are drawn here.

We suggest spending a slow morning wandering the High Street, browsing its independent shops, artisan card stores, and cozy bakeries, before strolling down to the waterfront. From there, lace up your shoes for the 3-mile cliffside walk to Tantallon Castle , a striking 14th-century fortress perched dramatically above the sea. Keep your eyes offshore to see Bass Rock, a hulking white island covered in thousands of gannets, looms just across the waves.

One of our favorite mini adventures while exploring North Berwick was taking a boat tour from the Scottish Seabird Centre. On the tour a naturalists helped us spot puffins, seals, and gannets in their natural habitat. The Centre itself is worth a visit too. It offers interactive exhibits and panoramic views of the Firth of Forth from its café terrace. Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers will be in heaven here, especially during seabird nesting season from spring to early autumn.

After our outdoor adventures, we settled in for a delicious bite in one of North Berwick’s beloved eateries. Steampunk Coffee , set in a converted warehouse, serves up some of the best locally roasted coffee in East Lothian which is perfect alongside a flaky pastry or sourdough sandwich. For lunch or dinner, head to the Lobster Shack. This is a no-frills harborside hut where you can enjoy buttery lobster rolls, fresh-caught crab, and Cullen Skink with a sea breeze in your hair. Since we were there in the summer, we grabbed a seat at a picnic bench, watched the boats bob in the harbor, and soaked in the relaxed, salty-air atmosphere that makes North Berwick a local gem.

6. Glasgow

Best Described as: Scotland’s Biggest city for culture, architecture and nightlife
Travel Time:~ 55 minute train ride each way

Glasgow is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can take, especially if you’re craving bold street art, inventive food, and an authentic taste of Scottish urban life. Our own journey started with an unexpected twist: we unknowingly boarded a train packed with concert-goers heading to a major event in the city. With barely a seat to spare, we found ourselves sharing a table with a group of friendly locals. What could have been a chaotic ride quickly became one of our favorite memories of the UK, we laughed over Scottish slang, exchanged travel stories, and even got some fantastic foodie recommendations for our day ahead.

Once in the city, we followed their advice and began with the City Centre Mural which is a stunning outdoor gallery that wraps around Glasgow’s heart. Each larger-than-life mural added a pop of color and culture to otherwise overlooked streets, and it was one of the best ways to get a feel for the city’s creative pulse. We also ducked into the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre, a tiny, strange, and spectacular performance of mechanical sculptures set to haunting music. One of the best hidden gems we stumbled across was the spiral staircase at The Lighthouse. This provided us with a free viewpoint that offered sweeping views of the skyline.

Later in the day, we headed to the West End and explored Kelvingrove Park and its namesake art gallery, where we wandered through eclectic exhibits and admired Salvador Dalí’s Christ of St John of the Cross. When the rain came (as it tends to), we found cozy refuge inside the gallery’s grand halls. A short stroll brought us to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens where the Kibble Palace greenhouse offered the perfect pause. We ended the evening on Ashton Lane; a cobble stone alley strung with fairy lights and packed with buzzing pubs and a retro cinema.

✈️Traveler Tip: If you are planning to take a regional plane to another European location, it may be easier and just as cost effective to leave from Glasgow. We flew from here to Dublin, instead of returning to Edinburgh first. It saved us time and money.

7. Stirling

Best described as: Historic Royal City with a Must-See Castle
Travel Time: 1 hour by train each way

If you’re putting together a list of the 10 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh, Stirling absolutely deserves a spot near the top. Just under an hour away by train or car, this historic city is a dream for history lovers and castle enthusiasts alike. The iconic Stirling Castle sits high on a volcanic crag and was once the seat of Scottish kings and queens. It has played a central role in Scotland’s past for centuries. Today, it offers an immersive visitor experience with restored royal halls, interactive living-history exhibits, and sweeping views of the countryside. Many travelers find it even more rewarding than Edinburgh Castle due to its quieter atmosphere and captivating storytelling.

A short walk from the castle brings you to Abbey Craig, where the towering National Wallace Monument honors legendary Scottish hero William Wallace. This 220-foot Gothic tower offers not only engaging exhibits about Wallace and the Battle of Stirling Bridge, but also panoramic views over the Forth Valley and the distant Trossachs. For anyone compiling their ultimate day trips from Edinburgh, this combination of cultural heritage and dramatic landscapes makes Stirling a standout destination.

Stirling’s walkable Old Town is full of medieval charm, with cobblestone streets, hidden passageways, and the historic Church of the Holy Rude , where James VI was crowned in 1567. If time allows, take a quick 15-minute bus or taxi ride to nearby Doune Castle , famous as a filming location for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. Stirling is one of those rare places that feels alive with history yet easy to explore in a single day. Whether you’re visiting in the warm, busy summer or the quiet, misty winter, it’s a magical and essential stop on any list of the best day trips from Edinburgh.

8. Melrose (Scottish Borders)

Best described as: Abbey Ruins and Countryside Walks
Travel Time: 50 minutes by train each way + 10 minute bus/taxi (take Train to Teedbank and then take a short bus or taxi ride)

Set in the gentle, rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, Melrose is a lively, yet peaceful village best known for the romantic ruins of Melrose Abbey. This 12th-century red sandstone abbey is as atmospheric as it is historic. It is partially overgrown, beautifully carved, and full of character. You can wander through the crumbling cloisters, spot whimsical details like the famous bagpipe-playing pig, and climb the tower for sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. After exploring, pop into one of the local shops or bakeries; we treated ourselves at the award-winning Twelve Triangles, where their honey-filled Melrose tart was easily one of the best snacks of our trip.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Eildon Hills offer an excellent hiking option right on Melrose’s doorstep. This well-marked, moderately challenging 6-mile hike that takes around 2–3 hours to complete. All of the people we talked to who completed this hike said it was well worth it, but to use caution because it does include some areas of loose terrain. When you reach the summit, you have open views across the Borderlands and a breath of fresh country air.

9. Rosslyn Chapel (Roslin)

Best described as: Mystery and Medieval Stonework
Travel Time: 45 minutes bus ride each way (Route 37)

Just a short journey south of Edinburgh, Rosslyn Chapel which is one of Scotland’s most enigmatic and atmospheric landmarks. Built in the 15th century by Sir William St Clair, this small Gothic chapel is world-famous for its intricate stone carvings and the rich tapestry of legends surrounding it. Visitors might recognize it from The Da Vinci Code, but its mystery goes far deeper than Hollywood. Every inch of the interior is adorned with symbolic figures including green men, angels, stars, dragons, and even a carving of what appears to be maize, leading some to believe the chapel holds secrets of early journeys to the Americas. Whether you come for the architecture, the art, or the mystery, you’ll find yourself drawn in by the stories shared by the knowledgeable guides, who recount tales of the Knights Templar, hidden vaults, and the elusive Holy Grail.

After exploring the chapel, take time to wander through Roslin Glen, the peaceful wooded valley just behind the site. The trail follows the banks of the North Esk River, passing beneath mossy cliffs and quiet groves until you reach the romantic ruins of Rosslyn Castle, perched dramatically above the water. This area feels worlds away from the city and offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and legend.

10. South Queensferry

Best described as: Fourth Bridges and Island Adventure
Travel Time: ~ 20 minutes by train to Dalmeny (plus a short walk)

South Queensferry turned out to be one of our favorite coastal escapes in Scotland. Just a short train or bus ride from Edinburgh, this postcard-perfect village sits at the foot of the iconic Forth Bridges, offering panoramic views of all three Forth Road Bridges, including the red Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled High Street, lined with colorful 17th- and 18th-century houses, felt like stepping into a Hallmark movie. It’s an easy and scenic day trip from Edinburgh that combines charm, history, and waterfront views all in one spot.

If you visit South Queensferry, don’t miss the boat trip from the pier out onto the Firth of Forth. We took a cruise that passed beneath the mighty bridges and continued on to Inchcolm Island, which completely exceeded our expectations. The island is home to a 12th-century abbey surrounded by grassy paths, tide pools, and the occasional curious seal. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret slice of Scottish history, only reachable by boat and yet surprisingly overlooked by most visitors. Whether you go for the views, the maritime history, or simply a peaceful afternoon by the sea, South Queensferry is a gem that belongs on every list of the best day trips from Edinburgh.

Where to Stay

Edinburgh stays offer a mix of historic charm and modern comfort. Opt for the Old Town or the Royal Mile if you want to wake up steps from iconic landmarks, cozy pubs, and cobbled streets. For a quieter, more residential feel with great cafes and easy tram access, the New Town or Stockbridge neighborhood is a relaxed yet central alternative.

📍Budget Option: ⭐⭐⭐ ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile – Hunter Square

The clean and simple ibis Edinburgh is perfectly positioned just off the Royal Mile in Old Town. It is Ideal for travelers who want to be steps away from Edinburgh Castle, trendy cafés, and lively evening spots without overspending.

📍Mid-Range Option: ⭐⭐⭐⭐Eden Locke (George Street, New Town)

Located on elegant George Street in New Town, this upscale aparthotel feels more boutique than business‑oriented. Each studio comes with a kitchenette and smart modern décor. This is within walking distance of the National Galleries and leafy Princes Street Gardens.

📍Luxury Option: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The Balmoral Hotel

This is an Edinburgh icon with a clock tower that frames the skyline. The Balmoral is the city’s only Forbes five‑star hotel and is a member of Rocco Forte’s luxury collection. With its doorstep location at Waverley Station and views over the Castle, it’s the perfect base for those seeking epic pampering and historic grandeur.

FAQs

Which is the best day trip from Edinburgh?

By car, we would suggest Stirling + The Kelpies + Loch Lomond. This trip will give you a great combination of history, views, nature and hikes. If train/bus is your only option, we would suggest Glasgow. Glasgow is packed with culture, food, and history. It’s easily accessible by train, and once you get there it is a very walkable city with great public transit within the Glasgow.

Is Glasgow worth a day trip from Edinburgh?

Once you arrive, you’ll find a vibrant mix of street art, Victorian architecture, and world-class museums like Kelvingrove and the Riverside. It also has an incredible food and music scene that gives the city a totally different vibe from Edinburgh

Can you do a day trip from Edinburgh to the Highlands?

Yes, you absolutely can do a day trip from Edinburgh to the Highlands. It is a fantastic way to get a taste of Scotland’s wild beauty even if you’re short on time.

That said, the Highlands are vast, so most day trips from Edinburgh focus on the southern and central Highlands, especially places like Glencoe, Loch Ness, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and Rannoch Moor. These areas give you that dramatic, misty, cinematic landscape without requiring an overnight stay.

Wrapping Things Up: Day trips from Edinburgh

After weeks of day-tripping from Edinburgh, we can confidently say that Scotland’s magic extends far beyond the capital’s cobblestone streets. Whether you found yourself dreaming of Glencoe’s dramatic peaks, North Berwick’s seaside charm, or Glasgow’s vibrant street art scene, each of these destinations offers a unique slice of Scottish character that’s impossible to experience from Edinburgh alone.

The beauty of using Edinburgh as your base is the incredible variety within reach. One day you can be exploring 12th-century abbey ruins in Melrose, and the next you’re hiking Highland trails with views that stretch to the horizon. Some of our most treasured travel memories came from these spontaneous day trips, unexpected conversations with locals on Glasgow-bound trains, perfect fish and chips eaten pier-side in Anstruther, and those magical moments when mist cleared to reveal Glencoe’s towering peaks.

Don’t feel pressured to tick every destination off this list. Instead, choose the ones that speak to your interests and travel style. History buffs will lose themselves in Stirling’s royal castle, while nature lovers might find their perfect day hiking the Eildon Hills above Melrose. The key is to embrace Scotland’s manageable size and excellent transport links. All of these adventures are just a comfortable train ride or scenic drive away.

Pack a waterproof jacket (trust us on this one), bring your camera, and prepare to fall in love with Scotland beyond Edinburgh. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or several weeks, these day trips will show you why Scotland captures hearts and keeps calling travelers back for more. The only challenge will be deciding which adventure to tackle first!

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