Edinburgh's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Scotland. Within an hour or two, you can reach historic castles, beautiful lochs, charming seaside towns, and the dramatic Scottish Highlands.
Some destinations like Stirling and North Berwick are easy train rides away, perfect for independent travellers. For the Highlands and more remote locations, organised tours or a hire car give you the freedom to explore Scotland's spectacular landscapes without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.
Best Day Trip Destinations
St Andrews
50 miles / 1 hourHistoric university town and home of golf. Beautiful beaches, medieval ruins, and charming streets make it perfect for a day out.
Stirling & Stirling Castle
37 miles / 50 minsScotland's most important castle historically, perched on volcanic rock. The Wallace Monument and battlefields nearby.
Scottish Highlands (Glencoe)
100 miles / 2.5 hoursDramatic mountain scenery at Glencoe. Long day trip but worth it for Scotland's most spectacular landscapes.
Loch Lomond
70 miles / 1.5 hoursScotland's largest loch with beautiful scenery. Gateway to the Trossachs National Park with villages, walks, and boat trips.
Rosslyn Chapel
7 miles / 20 minsFamous from The Da Vinci Code, this medieval chapel has extraordinary carvings and mysterious symbolism.
North Berwick
25 miles / 40 minsCharming seaside town with beautiful beaches, volcanic hill, and Scottish Seabird Centre. Perfect for a relaxed day.
Linlithgow Palace
18 miles / 30 minsBirthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Impressive ruined palace beside a loch, less crowded than Edinburgh's attractions.
Pitlochry
70 miles / 1.5 hoursVictorian resort town in Highland Perthshire. Whisky distilleries, salmon ladder, and beautiful scenery.
Organised Highland Tours
For the Highlands and remote destinations, organised tours are often the best option. Local guides handle the driving and provide commentary on Scotland's history and landscapes.
Loch Ness & Highlands
12-14 hoursFull day visiting Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the Great Glen. Long day but covers iconic Scotland.
Isle of Skye
3 days recommendedToo far for a comfortable day trip. Multi-day tours available, or stay overnight to do it properly.
Glencoe & West Highlands
10-12 hoursDramatic mountain scenery, Glencoe valley, and possibly Fort William. One of the most scenic day trips.
Outlander Locations
8-10 hoursVisit filming locations from the TV series including Doune Castle, Falkland, and Culross.
Getting There
By Train
Good for: St Andrews (via Leuchars), Stirling, North Berwick, Linlithgow, Pitlochry, Glasgow
ScotRail runs regular services. Book in advance for cheaper fares.
By Car
Good for: All destinations, Highlands, Remote locations, Multiple stops in one day
Most flexibility but parking can be tricky. Consider car hire for Highland trips.
By Tour
Good for: Highlands, Loch Ness, Isle of Skye, Outlander locations
Best for distant destinations. Local guides provide context and handle driving.
Day Trip Tips
- ✓Book Highland tours in advance, especially in summer
- ✓Train tickets are cheaper booked ahead on ScotRail
- ✓Stirling and Linlithgow are easy half-day trips
- ✓North Berwick is perfect for a beach day
- ✓The Highlands require a full day or overnight stay
- ✓Consider weather - Highland tours are best on clear days
- ✓St Andrews is busiest during golf tournaments
- ✓Rosslyn Chapel is the closest day trip from Edinburgh