Edinburgh is packed with history and atmosphere, but it's also a perfect base for exploring more of Scotland. Within an hour or two, you can visit royal castles, the home of golf, a mysterious medieval chapel, and seaside towns full of seabirds. Here are the top day trips from Edinburgh, with distances and how to get there.
The Best Day Trips From Edinburgh
1. Stirling
Distance from Edinburgh: About 58 kilometers (36 miles)
How to get there: Trains from Edinburgh Waverley take about 50 minutes. Driving via the M9 takes around an hour.
Often called the "Gateway to the Highlands," Stirling is crowned by Stirling Castle, perched on a volcanic crag and once a favorite royal residence. Climb the National Wallace Monument for sweeping views, and visit the Battle of Bannockburn site nearby.
2. St Andrews
Distance from Edinburgh: About 89 kilometers (55 miles)
How to get there: Take the train to Leuchars (about an hour), then a short bus ride. Driving takes about 1.5 hours.
The "home of golf" is a charming coastal university town. See the Old Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the world, explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, once Scotland's largest church, and climb St Rule's Tower for views over the town and sea. Then walk along West Sands beach.
3. Roslin and Rosslyn Chapel
Distance from Edinburgh: About 11 kilometers (7 miles)
How to get there: Buses from the city center take around 45 minutes. Driving takes about 30 minutes.
The 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel is famous for its extraordinarily intricate stone carvings and its role in Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code. Book tickets in advance, then walk through Roslin Glen, a wooded valley with castle ruins.
4. North Berwick
Distance from Edinburgh: About 40 kilometers (25 miles)
How to get there: Direct trains from Edinburgh Waverley take about 30 minutes.
This seaside town has sandy beaches, a pretty harbor, and the Scottish Seabird Centre. In season, take a boat trip around Bass Rock, home to one of the world's largest northern gannet colonies. Climb North Berwick Law for views along the coast.
5. Linlithgow
Distance from Edinburgh: About 32 kilometers (20 miles)
How to get there: Direct trains from Edinburgh Waverley take about 20 minutes.
Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, stands in ruins beside a peaceful loch. Explore its grand halls and stairways, then walk around the loch and visit St Michael's Church. You can easily combine it with the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel nearby.
More Day Trip Ideas From Edinburgh
- Glasgow: Scotland's largest city is under an hour away by train, with great museums, architecture, and live music.
- Loch Lomond and the Trossachs: Lochs and hills about 1.5 hours away, perfect for walks and boat trips.
- The Highlands: Guided tours visit Glencoe and Loch Ness in one long day.
Tips for Day Trips From Edinburgh
- Take the train: ScotRail connects Edinburgh with Stirling, Linlithgow, North Berwick, and Glasgow quickly and easily.
- Book popular sights: Rosslyn Chapel and Stirling Castle can get busy in summer.
- Dress for changeable weather: Pack a waterproof jacket, even in summer.
- Check seasonal boat trips: Bass Rock boat trips usually run in the warmer months.
Planning your trip? Find out the best time to visit Scotland and read our guide to New Year's Eve in Edinburgh.
Stay Connected in Scotland
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FAQs: Day Trips From Edinburgh
What is the best day trip from Edinburgh?
Stirling is one of the best day trips for history and castles, while St Andrews is ideal for coastal scenery and golf.
Can you visit the Highlands as a day trip from Edinburgh?
Yes. Guided tours visit Glencoe and Loch Ness in one long day, though staying a night or two lets you see more.
What is the easiest day trip from Edinburgh by train?
Linlithgow is just 20 minutes away, and North Berwick and Stirling are under an hour by direct train.
How do you get to Rosslyn Chapel from Edinburgh?
Take a local bus from the city center, which takes around 45 minutes, or drive in about 30 minutes.