Top Edinburgh Day Trips

Head into the Edinburgh countryside with one of these highly rated day trips, according to past guests:

• Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour
• Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh
• Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh
• St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Yes, Edinburgh day trips are worth it, as there’s so much to see outside of Scotland’s capital. Plus, you can cover a lot of ground with an experienced driver at the wheel. Most tours bundle several stops with something for everyone, whether you want to sample spirits at countryside distilleries, visit Outlander film sites, shop for the perfect souvenir, or try to spot the Loch Ness monster.

Yes, you can do a day trip to the stunning Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh. Most preplanned itineraries are long day tours (about 13 hours), but you’ll see an amazing array of dramatic landscapes. Sit back and relax as you take in the soaring mountains, glistening lakes, and deep valleys.

Yes, you can do a day trip to Loch Ness from Edinburgh. Most preplanned day tours to Loch Ness include other key stops, such as visits to the villages of Glencoe and Pitlochry, Some also feature a cruise on Loch Ness—all the better to spot legendary Nessie.

Yes, St Andrews is worth a day trip from Edinburgh. This historic coastal town is home to the world’s oldest golf course, dating back to the 15th century. You’ll want to wander around the St Andrews University campus, where the Prince and Princess of Wales first met as students, and see the medieval remains of St Andrews Cathedral.

Plan to spend at least four days in Edinburgh. That will give you plenty of time to visit the most iconic landmarks and allow for a day trip outside the city, as well. A few don’t-miss sights in the capital include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyrood, and Arthur’s Seat.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Edinburgh aside from day trips. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Rail Tours

• Private Drivers

• Distillery Tours

• Night Tours

• Bus and Minivan Tours

Edinburgh day trip prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Whisky and Tales: Whisky, History and Storytelling

• Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh: Guided Tour

• Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh

• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

• City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Edinburgh day trips range from private to shared excursions, so choose whatever works best for your budget and group. Themes vary, as do the locations visited—research options, as there should be something for whatever your interest. If traveling with children, check that tours cater for children—some specify minimum age requirements.

To make the most of an Edinburgh day trip, dress in layers and bring rain gear, as Scotland’s weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for cobblestone streets or nature excursions. Book tours in advance as popular excursions can fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer travel season.

The best time to book Edinburgh day trips is during the shoulder seasons: late spring, May to June, and early autumn, from September to October. These times typically offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and the Scottish scenery is at its best. Summer has long daylight hours but is the busiest season, so book tours in advance. Winter trips can be special, but be sure to pack warm layers.