Private tour

How many are in your party? If just 2-3 people, you might do better cost-wise with public transport. The fares for a larger group might add up to an amount closer to what you'd pay for a private driver. Also, do member(s) of your party have mobility limitations that make a private car preferable instead of getting on & off train or bus?

I'm thinking, for example, you could take the bus to the village of Roslin and visit Rosslyn Chapel, plus have ample time to walk around the village. If you buy a day pass for Lothian Bus, you can use the buses around Edinburgh later in the day, for example to go out to dinner. As another option, you could take the train to St Andrews, which has plenty to see in a day. There are also convenient train connections to places like Stirling, to Linlithgow, etc.

You might also consider a small group tour such as Rabbies.
https://www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/from-edinburgh

I did do an independent day tour to St. Andrews on public transport and it was quite easy to take the bus there and back. One thing I really like about the bus, is that it puts you in contact with locals and you travel like a local.

Train to Stirling was another good idea. Then just grab a cab up to the Castle and enjoy.

I like the independent tour idea to St Andrews. Is bus the only way there? I tried searching for a train schedule without luck.

Hi, Jon,

There is no train service to St. Andrews. You take the train from Edinburgh to Leuchars, and then a bus or taxi from there. The bus runs very frequently. It's about 20 minutes by bus, 10 to 15 minutes by taxi. Bus is around three pounds each way, and the taxi would be about 15 pounds plus tip. The bus meets every scheduled train, and the bus stop is right outside the train station, as is the taxi stand. If there's more than yourself travelling, taxi might be your better bet.

Mike (Auchterless)

I just took the bus all the way from Edinburgh to St. Andrews. I think it is actually quicker.

http://www.afternoonteatours.co.uk About 5 or 6 years ago we did a 2 day trip out of Edinburgh with Helen. She was awesome and the trip was exactly as we had asked. She will listen to you and create exactly the itinerary you are imaging, with some very expert suggestions to make it even better. I found the name (afternoon tea tours) sort of off putting. It is, in fact, a fab guide (and her husband) introducing the Scotland they know and love.