3 weeks to visit as much of Scotland as possible without a car. I am planning a trip end of August to mid September this year. Think of starting in Edinburgh because am flying in there. I would welcome any suggestions as to which known or less known places to visit, how to get to the different places and how many days to book accommodations in one place while visiting what can be visited in the area. Suggested itineraries? While on a budget, I realize that some locations are easier reachable by local tours and am open to try them. Otherwise can nature and historical sites be explored within this time frame while travelling by train or bus? Is it realistic to think I can go visit remote areas like up north until Noss Head and at least some of the Outer Hebrides and other islands on the west coast? Is there one place where I could spend some beach days (warmer waters)? Thank you in advance.
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
2044 posts
Here is Rick's suggested itinerary for Scotland:
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/scotland/itinerary
It's two weeks by car, but if you scroll to the end, he has suggestions for how to adapt it to public transportation.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2514 posts
Have you done a search on this site or scrolled through the Scotland forum for ideas? The first page has at least 3 or 4 posts on getting around Scotland without a car.
Here is one trip report from a year ago that includes travel to the Outer Hebrides without a car.
If you're up for walking, you could get to places like Noss Head after taking a bus or train to a nearby town. But, choose your walking routes carefully, as some can be difficult. However, there are plenty of other sights to visit that may be more accessible.
Enjoy your planning.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1759 posts
Look at www.visitscotland.com which is a gateway site which may answer many of your questions. There are no naturally warm beach waters in Scotland; but you can wear a water sports suit or do some great beachcombing. Depending on your age or student status, you can get special travel passes, although some are available only to resident Scots. I would check the train routes and times first; that would help you see which hub locations are best for you. They now do have bus routes that are useful if you want to hike the West Highland Trail, or other hikes and want a ride back or a leap forward. August and September are usually pleasant. Others on this site will have more specific recent experiences.
Posted by
Oregon 🌲
546 posts
Do you have lodging yet for Edinburgh? Will you be there for the Fringe Festival, which finishes August 31?
Posted by
OP
Canada
2 posts
No lodging booked yet, anywhere. I would like to catch the last week of the festival in Edinburgh, yes.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2514 posts
Good luck finding affordable lodging during the festival. Maybe you'll be able to take advantage of someone's cancellation. Start searching!!!!
Posted by
Chicago
4511 posts
A tour or multiple shorter tours with Rabbie's is a great way to see Scotland without a car.
https://www.rabbies.com/en-gb/tours/scotland/from-edinburgh
They are not guided tours and meals are not included.
I have taken so many tours with them that i have lost count. And i'm signed up for more next year.