When in Edinburgh, a visit to the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city is absolutely essential. We dare say you haven’t experienced a fraction of what Scotland has to offer without visiting these charming destinations, hidden away in the Scottish Highlands or faraway towns.

With our curated day trips from Edinburgh, we bring the best of them to you. These pre-planned tours bring varied Scottish experiences to you sans the trouble of planning or navigating foreign roads. You are in good hands with our trusted tour operators, who will go to great lengths to deliver exceptional services. Add to the mix, great and diverse tour options, the best prices, and assured support every step of the way. Need we say more? Scan through, choose your pick, and book your ticket to embark on the ultimate adventure from Edinburgh!

Day trip destinations from Edinburgh map

Day trips from Edinburgh - an overview

DestinationDistanceThings to doTickets

The Kelpies

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

42 km

Catch the light show at Kelpies; check out Helix - the parkland around the Kelpies

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Stirling Castle

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

63 km

Behold pretty views; visit the Chapel Royal & admire its impressive interiors; try on the period costumes & play pretend; learn the castle's interesting history

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Loch Lomond

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

126 km

Loch Lomond cruises; hike up Ben Lomond; visit Trossachs National Park; check out the nearby whisky distilleries

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Alnwick Castle

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

138 km

Marvel at the architectural highlights of the Castle; visit the treehouse cafe - the largest of its kind in the world; stroll through the landscaped gardens

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Glencoe

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

188 km

Loch Leven cruises; hike the mountain trails; catch truly dramatic scenery; go skiing

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Fort William

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

234 km

Hike up Ben Nevis; take the Jacobite Steam Train starting here; explore Lochaber Geopark

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Scottish Highlands

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

252 km (Fort Augustus)

Check out Highland highlights like Glencoe & Loch Ness; hike along the West Highland Way; visit museums that document the distinct Highland culture & histories

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Glenfinnan

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

255 km

Visit the Glenfinnan Monument; ride the Jacobite Steam Train along the Glenfinnan Viaduct; Loch Shiel cruises

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Loch Ness

Transfers_Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours

273 km

Loch Ness cruise; keep an eye out for Nessie; explore Urquhart Castle

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More day trip options from Edinburgh

Linlithgow

Royal history | Architecture enthusiasts | Tranquil escapes

25 km away

  • Explore the stunning ruins of Linlithgow Palace - the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots
  • Wander around the picturesque Linlithgow Loch
  • Grab a bite at the town's quaint shops and cafes and enjoy a boat ride on the Linlithgow Canal Centre

Dunfermline

Ancient capital | Cultural explorers | Architectural marvels

25 km away

  • Explore the city’s heritage at the Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, and Abbot House
  • Stroll through Pittencrieff Park 
  • Walk the Fife Coastal Path to catch brilliant views of the Forth Bridge

North Berwick

Coastal charm | Family-friendly | Beach resort town

30 km away 

  • Plan a beach day - strolling, surfing, & swimming
  • Explore the Scottish Seabird Centre
  • Take a boat trip to Bass Rock, a seabird reserve
  • Recount the Witch Trials history at St Andrew’s Kirk

St. Andrews

Golfing paradise | History buffs | Scenic coastal views

80 km away

  • Play a round in the birthplace of golf at any of the iconic golf courses
  • Visit St. Andrews Cathedral and Castle ruins and learn of its vibrant history
  • Relax on the beautiful West Sands Beach

Dunkeld

Scenic village | Nature walks | Historic sites

90 km away

  • Visit Dunkeld Cathedral
  • Explore The Hermitage woodland walk
  • Check out the Birnam Oak, believed to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Macbeth 
  • Enjoy a stroll through the charming village center with its preserved 18th-century buildings or along the River Tay

Pitlochry

Highland gateway | Adventure seekers

110 km away 

  • Engage in hillwalking along the lush mountain trails and hike up Ben Vrackie
  • Hit up the Queen’s View for one of the most photographed places in Scotland
  • Visit a distillery for a whisky-tasting session
  • Visit the Salmon Ladder near the Pitlochry Dam 

Frequently asked questions about day trips from Edinburgh

You can opt for full-day trips from Edinburgh with multiple stops, an expert guide, and comfortable round-trip transfers.