We are flying in to Glasgow and out of Edinburgh. We have 6 days to make the most of. Should be use this to explore these two cities, using public transport to get from Glasgow to Edinburgh? Or should we rent a car and explore more widely. We've not been to Scotland so perhaps we can fill the time well by just doing the basics from these two cities. Or not ... (This will be in late June.)
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
64 posts
You can do either, but It kind of depends what your interests are. Glasgow is a modern city with cultural centers and shopping with an industrial feel. It's a nice city, but much like loads of other large European cities. Edinburgh is medieval, historical and there is much more to see from a tourist perspective. You could easily fill a week in Edinburgh and not leave the city.
Very easy 1 hour train ride from Glasgow to Edinburgh. Trains leave on the hour, so you don't need reservations.
In my opinion, you will want at least one day in Glasgow, and a minimum of three in Edinburgh so that only leaves two for exploration. It would be a shame to miss seeing a bit of the highlands. You might arrange to rent a car in Glasgow, explore for two days then head to Edinburgh and drop off the car on your way into the city.
You might consider bagging the car idea and taking an organized day trip from either Glasgow or Edinburgh if you want to see things outside the city.
I did a lot of research prior to my trip on this site and Trip Advisor. You'll find out more about Glasgow on that site than you will here as it is not one of Rick's more favored areas.
Whatever you choose have a great time! June is a beautiful time of year there.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1863 posts
We have been to Scotland three times and are returning this June. It's a lot easier to get around if you rent a car. Pick one up at the Glasgow airport, head up towards Glencoe and from there choose one more destination: Wester Ross, Skye, or Loch Ness. Turn in the car in Edinburgh, giving yourself a full day to explore the Royal Mile. Six days isn't much time, so you will have to limit yourself to two or three locations. For travel times use the travel planner at theaa.com We find the mileages are accurate. If you want more specifics, just ask...
Posted by
Utah
455 posts
between glasgow and edinburgh there is stirling (castle, wallace monument) and we found the falkirk wheel interesting. skye is great if you can get there.