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Only 3 days in Scotland! Best day trips from Edinburgh?

Husband and I leave York, England on Monday, June 5, 2017, for Scotland. Alas, we need to fly out from Edinburgh on June 8, but haven't planned what to do while in Scotland. Train from York to Edinburgh or maybe to Glasgow first? Other points before Edinburgh first, suggestions for day trips from Edinburgh? Thanks for all tips!

Posted by
6113 posts

There is enough to keep you busy in Edinburgh for more than 3 days - the Castle, the Scottish Parliament building, Arthur's Seat, Britannia, the Royal Mile etc. You are only going to have 2 full days there.

You could do a day trip to Glasgow, which is an hour away by train or Stirling or St Andrews. If you want to travel further, look at Rabbies Tours.

Posted by
5293 posts

Marilyn,

I agree with Jennifer; three days will keep you busy exploring and enjoying this beautiful city.

You may be interested in this recent post too.

Enjoy your trip!

Posted by
308 posts

I agree that there is more than enough to do in Edinburgh. If someone has a strong desire to see the Highlands or Loch Ness, Rabbies offers good day tours. I did one a few years ago. The guide was even wearing a kilt!

Posted by
1692 posts

There is enough in Edinburgh to see. Look there first If you want to go further than Edinburgh, Stirling, Glasgow are best.

Hint. Either way, get a map. Get a compass, and work out the radius of 80 km / 50 miles. That is probably the best for a day trip, on the road or in the rail.

Posted by
1878 posts

There is a lot to do in Edinburgh, I would not venture out of the city. We really enjoyed the Museum of Scotland, even though we only visited for a couple of hours. If you really want to do a day trip, Stirling Castle is a good one. We had three nights in Edinburgh and could have used another full day. I can't say I regret the day trip to Striling though.

Posted by
5678 posts

I love Edinburgh and as everyone has already said there is plenty to keep you busy for three days. Make sure you explore New Town as well as the Royal Mile. "New Town" was built in the late 1700's early 1800's :) I would recommend touring Gladstones Land for a taste of medieval Edinburgh and then visit the Georgian House in New Town for the contrasting view of "contemporary" Edinburgh."

You can also venture down to Leith to see the Royal Yacht Britannia. Or if you have good weather and energy, climb Arthur's Seat. It's also nice to walk along Leith Water, exploring Stockbridge and ending up the modern art museum.

I always start my visits to Edinburgh at the Castle if at all possible. It orients me, to city and to Scotland. And I will second or third that that Museum of Scotland is outstanding. Watch the weather and go when it is raining. :)

Pam