Day Trip To Edinburgh Suggestions

Even on a bus tour, you'll not get far in the time you have. You won't see the real Highlands. Some tour groups offer 1/2day tours to closer sites like Stirling Castle or Loch Lomond, but you may not be in Edinburgh proper (rather than at the airport) when the tours depart. In the town itself, you could do a hop-on, hop-off bus tour and maybe a museum or two. You could easily spend half a day at the excellent Edinburgh Castle or the Museum of Scotland. I also liked the Holyrood Palace and the People's Story museum. The Writers Museum (free) was only so-so and I recommend avoiding the John Knox house (not free).

Hi,

AirLink bus will take you from the airport to Waverley Bridge and it's just a short bit to the Royal Mile (up a hill, but it always seems to be uphill in Edinburgh :-), but that's probably where you want to stay--in town, visiting museums and the Mile. If you go right to the Castle, then it's just downhill for as long as you want to stay on the Mile, headed toward Holyrood Palace.

With your plane landing at 7:30, even if you wait for a few minutes for the next AirLink (every 10-15 min, I think), it's 25 or so minutes into town, putting you on the Bridge by 8:30. The Castle opens at 9:30, I think, many museums not until 10. If the Hop-on-hop-off is running, does seem a good thing to do. Hopefully another poster will have tips.

The Castle can take quite a bit of time, several hours easy. I was there from opening to 2:30pm, not everyone may stay that long, but I found much to enjoy, plus eating lunch there.

I ditto the recommendation for the People's Story (free). It is a great visit. Almost across the street is the Museum of Edinburgh (also free). If you know the story Greyfriar's Bobby, check out the Bobby display. The street to visit Bobby's fountain and where he is buried is up nearer the Castle.

You're already doing plenty of traveling for one day flying round trip from Dublin. You do not want to spend any more time in transit. Edinburgh is a fabulous city - stay there and enjoy it. You can have a wonderful day starting at the castle and working your way down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace. Try to leave some time for walking along Princes Street so you can view the castle below. It's quite spectacular. You might also have time for a museum or a hike out to Arthur's seat (not far) depending on the weather and your interest in hiking vs. museums. Have fun!

As everyone has said, you should stay in Edinburgh. There is plenty there to keep you happy. Save the highlands for another trip. I would agree that the Castle should be a first stop. There are lots of sights to keep you happy on the Royal, but if you might want to venture a bit further afield to New Town to check out The Georgian House. Also, if you are interested in the modern UK royalty, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a great trip. It's in Leith and may take a cab to keep you on your schedule. If it's raining think about spending time in the Museum of Scotland. It's terrific.

Pam

Thanks for the advice everyone. I appreciate it and look forward to a great trip!

Evan