Here are our recommendations for the best day trips from Edinburgh. We feel there is a day trip to suit everyone, from the vibrant city of Glasgow to the scenic Cairngorm mountain range.
1. Glen Coe and Glen Etive
Visit Glen Coe and Glen Etive to see Scotland’s breathtaking natural beauty. At Glen Etive check out the incredible Buachaille Etive Mòr munro and watch out for deer in their natural habitat. Then head to Glen Coe for the most surreal and other-worldly views including The Three Sisters of Glen Coe.
Distance from Edinburgh: 2 hours 30 mins drive
Tip: Don’t worry about having “good weather” to visit here. The views are spectacular in sunshine, rain or snow and if you fancy an overnight check out the Isle of Glencoe Hotel.
2. The Kelpies
The magical Kelpies in Falkirk are 2 horse heads sculptures which stand proud at 30 metres tall. They were created by sculptor Andy Scott and look even more incredible at night when they light up in all different colours. In Scottish folklore a kelpie is the name given to a shape-changing aquatic creature found in Scottish waters. Most lochs in Scotland have an associated kelpie story, the most famous of course being the tale of the Loch Ness Monster.
Distance from Edinburgh: 45 mins drive
Tip: You can visit the Kelpies free of charge or opt for a tour inside the horse heads which costs £7.50, more info here.
3. St. Andrews
St. Andrews is a beautiful seaside town famed for it’s incredible golf courses and prestigious University. Check out the St. Andrews Cathedral ruins and visit the charming Market Street for shops, bars and restaurants.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1 hour 15 mins drive
4. Glasgow
Scotland’s largest city Glasgow is a fun and vibrant city with so much to see and do. Walk the city’s funky mural trail or visit the magical Glasgow University campus in the West End. Then finish off your day with cocktails and dinner at the hidden gem of Ashton Lane.
Distance from Edinburgh: 55 mins drive or 1 hour 10 mins train journey
5. Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire is known as Scotland’s ‘Castle Country’ as it is home to over 260 magical castles. Be sure to check out our favourites, Dunnottar and Craigievar, if you drive the castle trail! Click here for more inspiration on Scottish Castles.
Distance from Edinburgh: 2 hours 20 mins drive
6. Loch Lomond & THE TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK
Head to the bonny banks of Loch Lomond for a scenic adventure. Stop by the charming town of Luss for an ice-cream or Balmaha for a hill walk. Also check out these hidden gems: the Falls of Falloch and the Devil’s Pulpit. Or why not climb Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s 282 munros.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1 hour 35 mins drive
7. Perthshire
Perthshire is a great day trip from Edinburgh, especially in Spring or Autumn due to the beautiful greenery. Head to Drummond Castle to see their magnificent gardens and in the Spring head to Kinclaven Bluebell Woods to see a carpet of bluebells.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1 hour drive
8. The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in Britain, is home to the most outstanding mountains and scenic drives. Drive the Snow Roads Scenic Route from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey for picturesque towns and beautiful views. Or head to the small town of Aviemore for sledging during snow season.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1 hour 50 mins drive
9. ST ABB'S HEAD NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE
St Abb’s nature reserve is a coastal haven for nature lovers and bird watchers! Listen to the waves crashing off the rocks from the cliff-top and watch the thousands of seabirds.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1 hour 10 mins drive
Tip: Visit early as the single track road can get busy and there aren’t many parking spots.
10. Stirling
Visit the city of Stirling to learn more about Scotland’s history. You can climb the striking Wallace Monument which commemorates Sir William Wallace and then check out the view from the medieval Stirling castle which sits on top of Castle Hill.
Distance from Edinburgh: 55 mins drive
We hope you enjoyed our recommendations for the best day trips from Edinburgh. For more inspiration for visiting Scotland click here.
Want to save this to Pinterest?
Hover over the image below to save it!
