Need a break from Edinburgh’s hectic streets? You remain in luck– some of Scotland’s most wonderful spots are simply a short trip away! Whether you’re craving significant castles, serene lochs, or cozy seaside villages, these Day Trips from Edinburgh provide memorable gets away without the inconvenience. Let’s strike the roadway!
| Destination | Travel Time | Secret Highlights | Best For | Avg. Expense * |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stirling Castle | 1 hour | Royal palace, Wallace Monolith | History fans | ₤ 30-40 |
| Loch Lomond | 1.5 hours | Boat tours, island hopping | Nature enthusiasts | ₤ 45-60 |
| St Andrews | 1.5 hours | Old Course golf, seaside walks | Golfers & beachgoers | ₤ 40-55 |
| Loch Ness | 3.5 hours | Nessie hunting, Highland surroundings | Experience applicants | ₤ 60-80 |
| Scottish Borders | 1.5 hours | Melrose Abbey, literary history | Relaxed explorers | ₤ 25-40 |
* Expenses consist of return transportation + piece de resistance entry. All trips start/end in Edinburgh city center.
Why Edinburgh is Your Perfect Base Camp
Edinburgh isn’t just another big city– it’s your launchpad to Scotland’s greatest adventures! With excellent public transport connections from the main train station and tactical location, you can check out whatever from the Scottish Highlands to coastal gems without changing your lodging. The old town Edinburgh and princes street buzz with energy, however in some cases you require to venture beyond the royal mile to find Scotland’s real magic.
Prepared to check out? Reserve your best Edinburgh base on CuddlyNest and get up ready for experience every day!
1. Stirling Castle & Historic Stirling
Journey Time: 1 hour by direct train from Edinburgh
Cost: ₤ 15-25 return train ticket + ₤ 16 castle entry
Best For: History enthusiasts and castle enthusiasts
What Makes It Special
Stirling Castle isn’t just any fortress– it’s where Scottish legends were born! Set down drastically on volcanic rock, this royal residence witnessed crownings of Scottish kings and queens. The whole city of Stirling twists around this spectacular castle like a medieval welcome, providing patched lanes and stunning views throughout the Scottish countryside.
Your Adventure Itinerary
- Early morning (9 AM): Catch the direct train from Edinburgh’s primary train station
- 10 AM– 1 PM: Check out Stirling Castle’s Great Hall, Royal Palace, and exhibits
- 1 PM– 2 PM: Lunch in Stirling’s town centre with great food and local flavours
- 2 PM– 4 PM: Take a beautiful walk through the old town and visit the National Wallace Monolith
- 4:30 PM: Return journey to Edinburgh
Where to Stay Nearby
Premier Inn Stirling City Centre — Modern convenience just minutes from the castle, perfect for extending your trip into a romantic getaway.
2. Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Forest Journey
Time: 1.5 hours by train + bus Cost:– ₤ 20-30 transport +activities from ₤ 25 Best For: Nature lovers and outside enthusiasts What Makes It Special
Invite to Scotland’s first national forest! Loch Lomond stretches like a giant mirror reflecting rugged mountains and ancient forests. This isn’t simply a lake– it’s Scotland’s largest freshwater body, dotted with 38 islands and surrounded by some of the most awesome landscapes on the planet.
Your Nature-Packed Day
- 8 AM: Early train to Balloch via Glasgow
- 10 AM– 12 PM: Boat trip across Loch Lomond’s pristine waters
- 12 PM– 2 PM: Treking tracks with bird’s eye view of the loch
- 2 PM– 4 PM: Visit captivating lochside villages and delight in local Scottish fare
- 4:30 PM: Journey back through Scotland’s stunning countryside
Experience Activities Available
- Boat trips to secluded islands
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Mountain cycling through ancient woodlands
- Wildlife spotting (red deer, golden eagles, and more!)
Where to Stay Neighboring
The Tarbet Hotel on Loch Lomond — High-end resort offering medspa treatments and champion golf course with loch views.
3. St Andrews: Golf Capital & Ancient University
Journey Time: 1.5 hours by direct train
Cost: ₤ 25-35 return + destinations from ₤ 15
Best For: Golf lovers, history lovers, and beach walkers
What Makes It Special
St Andrews isn’t simply where golf was born– it’s where magic happens! This ancient Scottish city integrates world-famous golf courses with a prominent university (where Prince William satisfied Kate!), middle ages ruins, and beautiful beaches that go for miles along Scotland’s east coast.
Your Royal Day Out
- Early Morning: Explore St Andrews Cathedral ruins and climb St Guideline’s Tower
- Midday: Stroll the famous Old Course (even if you’re not playing!)
- Afternoon: Stroll along West Sands Beach– the same beach from “Chariots of Fire”
- Late afternoon: Search the historical town centre and university buildings
Golf & Beyond
- Old Course: The most famous golf course in the world
- St Andrews Hyperlinks: Seven championship courses
- Beach strolls: Miles of golden sand perfect for romantic strolls
- University tours: Discover where future kings and queens research study
Where to Stay Neighboring
Old Course Hotel — Neglects the famous 17th hole with high-end features and first-rate dining.
4. Loch Ness & Inverness: Monster Searching Experience
Journey Time: 3.5 hours by train/bus or day trip
Cost: ₤ 40-60 for group tour consisting of transportation
Best For: Myth lovers and Highland explorers
What Makes It Special
Loch Ness isn’t almost Nessie (though we’re all covertly hoping for a sighting!). This legendary loch cuts through the Scottish Highlands like a dark, mysterious ribbon, surrounded by ancient castles, Highland clans’ history, and a few of Scotland’s most remarkable landscapes.
Your Monster-Hunting Travel plan 7 AM: Join a group tour from Edinburgh city centre 10:30 AM: Get To Loch Ness and board your boat tour
Highland Highlights
- Boat tour with sonar devices (seriously!)
- Urquhart Castle — significant ruins with loch views
- Highland wildlife — golden eagles, red deer, Highland livestock
- Inverness exploration — captivating Highland city
Where to Stay Close-by
Drumnadrochit Hotel — Special hotel with private beach and sensational Highland views.
5. The Borders: Melrose Abbey & Scott’s View
Journey Time: 1.5 hours by bus/car
Cost: ₤ 20-30 transportation + ₤ 8 abbey entry
Best For: Literary fans and countryside lovers
What Makes It Unique
The Scottish Borders area flows like poetry throughout rolling hills and ancient abbeys. This is Sir Walter Scott country, where the river Tweed winds through a few of Scotland’s a lot of romantic landscapes. Melrose Abbey, though ruined, stays among Scotland’s many beautiful Gothic masterpieces.
Your Literary Journey
- Early morning: Explore Melrose Abbey and discover Robert the Bruce’s heart
- Midday: Go to Scott’s View– the breathtaking viewpoint beloved by the well-known author
- Afternoon: Walk through Melrose’s lovely town centre
- Late afternoon: Optional visit to Abbotsford House (Scott’s former home)
Border Treasures
- Melrose Abbey: Gothic architecture and royal connections
- Scott’s View: Panoramic vistas across the Borders
- River Tweed: Perfect for tranquil walks
- Historical market towns: Each with unique character
Where to Stay Close-by
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel– Historic coaching inn in the heart of this lovely Border town.
Family-Friendly Day Trips (With Kids!)
Not all trips are perfect for children– here are the very best:
- Edinburgh Zoo + Almond Valley (30 min away) — Penguins, pandas, and farm enjoyable.
- The Falkirk Wheel & Kelpies — A huge turning boat lift & mythical horse sculptures.
- Culross (Outlander Filming Location) — Go back in time in this preserved 17th-century village.
Preparation Your Perfect Scottish Experience
Budget Plan Breakdown (Per Person)
- Budget outing: ₤ 25-40 consisting of transportation and basic attractions
- Mid-range adventures: ₤ 50-80 with meals and premium experiences
- High-end excursions: ₤ 100+ with private trips and fine dining
What to Load
- Weather-appropriate clothes (Scotland’s weather changes rapidly!)
- Comfy walking shoes for patched lanes and picturesque strolls
- Cam for those amazing Highland and seaside views
- Water resistant jacket (trust us on this one!)
Your Scottish
Adventure Begins(and Ends )in Edinburgh! From going after castle legends in Stirling to hunting monsters on Loch Ness, you’ve just found the very best day trips Edinburgh needs to provide. But let’s be real– after a day of exploring, you’ll want a cozy bed, a hot shower, and maybe a wee dram of whisky to toast your adventures.
Why opt for boring hotels when you could stay somewhere unforgettable? CuddlyNest has the ideal Edinburgh homes– think historical flats near the Royal Mile, stylish loch-view apartments, or even a wacky converted whisky warehouse!
Click, book, and wake up prepared for your next Scottish escape!
P.S. Pro tourist suggestion: Book early! Edinburgh’s finest stays fill fast, specifically during festival season. Your future self (and your tired feet) will thank you.
FAQs For Your Field Trip from Edinburgh
Can I check out multiple field trip locations in one day?
While possible for nearby spots like Stirling + Falkirk Wheel, a lot of destinations (specifically Loch Ness or St Andrews) should have a full day to take pleasure in appropriately. Concentrate on one each day!
Are nowadays journeys wheelchair available?
Numerous attractions (Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Zoo) have good accessibility, however some Highland areas and historical websites may have irregular terrain. Constantly examine place websites in advance.
What’s the very best day trip for rainy weather?
Select indoor-heavy alternatives like Edinburgh’s whisky distilleries or Stirling Castle. Loch Lomond’s boat trips typically have actually covered locations too!
Can I bring my pet dog on these day journeys?
Numerous outdoor destinations (Loch Lomond, Melrose Abbey grounds) are dog-friendly, however constantly verify transport policies (dogs usually enabled on trains for a small cost).
Explore More in Edinburgh