Best Day Trips from Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of Europe’s finest capital cities, but one of its greatest advantages is its location. Within just a few hours, you can travel from its medieval streets to visit Highland glens, ancient castles, dramatic coastlines and world-famous whisky distilleries.

So what are the best day trips from Edinburgh? Whether you want to experience Scotland’s legendary scenery, uncover centuries of history, or travel aboard an iconic steam train, there is an unforgettable day trip waiting for you. Let’s have a look at some popular options.

Loch Ness Day Trip

A Loch Ness day trip is one of Scotland’s classic sightseeing experiences and consistently ranks among the country’s most popular excursions.

Travelling north from Edinburgh, you’ll journey through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.

Journey through the Scottish Highlands

Cross the Firth of Forth before entering Highland Perthshire, continue through the vast wilderness of Rannoch Moor and the dramatic mountains of Glen Coe, then follow the Great Glen to the mysterious waters of Loch Ness.

Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle

At Loch Ness you’ll have time to relax beside the loch, spot the legendary Nessie, or join an optional cruise across the famous waters. On some itineraries you can visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Although it is a full day, the constantly changing scenery ensures the journey is every bit as memorable as the destination itself.

Compare Loch Ness Tours

Here are some popular Loch Ness Tours from Edinburgh:

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands - classic tour with the option of a cruise and visit to Urquhart Castle

Loch Ness Discovery - small group tour with the opportunity of taking a cruise

Loch Ness, The Highlands and Whisky - classic tour with the option of visiting Fort Augustus on Loch Ness and a whisky distillery*

* A cruise on Loch Ness is not possible with this tour.

Day Tour from Edinburgh to Stirling Castle

If you’re interested in Scotland’s royal history, a Day tour from Edinburgh to Stirling Castle is an excellent choice.

Visit Mighty Stirling Castle

Often described as the “Gateway to the Highlands”, Stirling played a pivotal role in Scotland’s history. Its magnificent castle sits high above the surrounding countryside and was once home to many Scottish kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots.

See Loch Lomond’s Bonnie Banks

Most tours are paired with Loch Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs National Park, offering a perfect balance between history and scenery. Along the way you’ll enjoy picturesque villages, peaceful lochs and stunning Highland landscapes.

Loch Lomond is famous for its tree-lined shores and mountainous backdrop.

Most tours will have the option of taking a short cruise to see some of the many islands that are scattered across the loch.

The World’s Largest Equine Statues

Another attraction of these tours is the visit to see The Kelpies, two massive horse-head statues located near the Forth and Clyde canal, which have become one of Scotland’s most famous modern landmarks. 

Designed by sculptor Andy Scott, the Kelpies pay tribute to the heavy horses who pulled heavy barges along the canals of Scotland.

This combination of castles, countryside and Scottish heritage makes a Stirling Castle tour one of the most rewarding day tours available from the capital.

Choose the perfect Stirling Castle Tour

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and The Kelpies - classic tour with the option of a Loch Lomond cruise from Balloch

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and The Kelpies - small group tour with the opportunity of taking a cruise from Luss or visiting Luss Distillery

Whisky Tours from Edinburgh

No visit to Scotland is complete without discovering the country’s national drink, and there are several excellent Whisky tours from Edinburgh.

The Highlands and Whisky

Depending on your interests, you can combine a Scottish Highland tour visiting castles and scenic locations with a visit to a traditional distillery where you’ll learn how whisky is made, from malting and mashing through to maturation in oak casks.

These tours create a varied day out and appeal to those who may not be whisky enthusiasts. 

An Immersive Whisky Tour

For the whisky lover, why not consider a whisky-themed tour with visits to two celebrated distilleries where there will be tutored tastings of fine malts, creating one of the best whisky tours in Scotland.

A Wee Dram

If you don’t have time for a full day tour, there are shorter half-day tours available that visit nearby Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery, whose elegant malt is an important ingredient in the famous Johnnie Walker range. 

Choose your ideal Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

Whisky and Waterfalls - small group tour which has the option to visit Glenturret Distillery

The Ultimate Malt Whisky Tour - a classic tour with the opportunity to tour Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery and Glenturret Distillery

Glenkinchie Malt Whisky Distillery Flavour Small Group Tour - a half-day tour to Glenkinchie Distillery with tour and tasting included

Jacobite Steam Train Tour from Edinburgh

Few journeys capture the imagination quite like The Jacobite Steam Train tour from Edinburgh.

Often referred to as the “real Hogwarts Express”, the Jacobite Steam Train travels along the spectacular West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig. It’s frequently quoted as being one of Europe’s most scenic railway journeys.

Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct

The highlight for many visitors is crossing the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, made internationally famous by the Harry Potter films.

Travelling through the Highlands

Getting to Fort William independently from Edinburgh to join the train can be challenging. The tour combines comfortable coach travel, stunning Highland scenery and a much sought-after reserved seat on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Along the way you’ll experience magnificent mountain scenery, sparkling lochs and dramatic coastal landscapes before returning to Edinburgh with unforgettable memories of Scotland’s most iconic railway adventure.

Other Popular Day Trips from Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the perfect base for exploring many other parts of Scotland.

Popular day tours include:

St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife - visit the historic home of golf, with its medieval university and beautiful coastline.

The Outlander Experience - see filming location tours featuring castles, palaces and picturesque villages from the television series.

Alnwick Castle and the Border Country - enjoy rolling countryside, historic towns and villages with a visit to Alnwick Castle and Gardens.

West Highland Lochs, Mountains and Castles - explore Scotland’s picturesque West Coast to see ancient castles and spectacular sea lochs.

Hairy Coos, Castles and Highland Views - say hello to some friendly Highland Cattle and soak up wonderful Highland scenery. 

Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glen Coe Experience - journey through the spectacular Scottish Highlands to see dramatic Glen Coe, the Cairngorms National Park and the Jacobite Steam Train cross the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct*

* Train operates until 25 September 2026

Whatever your interests, there is a day trip for you that showcases a different side of Scotland.

Why Choose a Guided Day Tour?

Choosing a guided tour allows you to relax while an experienced local guide brings Scotland’s history, legends and landscapes to life. Rather than having to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or parking, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Guided tours also maximise your sightseeing time by combining carefully planned itineraries with regular photo stops and expert commentary throughout the day that brings Scottish history to life.

Day Tour FAQs

Can you visit Loch Ness on a day trip from Edinburgh?

Yes. A Loch Ness day trip from Edinburgh is one of Scotland's most popular excursions.

Although it is a full-day tour, you'll travel through spectacular Highland scenery, including Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe and the Great Glen, before reaching the shores of the famous loch.

Many tours also offer the chance to take a monster-spotting cruise on Loch Ness.

Is a day trip to Loch Ness worth it?

Absolutely. It is a long day, but the journey is all part of the experience, taking you through some of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes before arriving at Loch Ness.

It's an excellent way to experience the Scottish Highlands in a single day while enjoying stunning scenery, fascinating history and the chance to spot the legendary Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

If I take a tour to Loch Ness, can I take a cruise?

Many Loch Ness day tours include the option of taking a cruise across the loch. Some also offer the opportunity to visit Urquhart Castle.

As not every itinerary has a cruise option, it's always worth checking the individual tour details before booking.

Can you ride the Jacobite Steam Train on a day trip from Edinburgh?

Yes, it's possible to enjoy a tour through the Highlands which includes a reserved seat for a one-way ride on the Jacobite Steam Train. You'll travel between Mallaig and Fort William on the train, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the world's most scenic railway journeys.

Travel from Edinburgh to Mallaig and from Fort William back to Edinburgh is by coach.

What is the best day trip from Edinburgh for seeing the Scottish Highlands?

A Loch Ness day trip is one of the best ways to experience the Scottish Highlands.

These tours include iconic locations such as Glen Coe, Rannoch Moor, the Great Glen and Loch Ness, showcasing some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery in a single day.

Are guided day tours from Edinburgh better than driving yourself?

For many visitors, yes. Guided tours remove the stress of driving, navigation and parking, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

An experienced driver-guide also provides fascinating commentary and local knowledge throughout the journey.

Which day trip from Edinburgh is best for Harry Potter fans?

The Jacobite Steam Train tour from Edinburgh is the perfect choice for Harry Potter fans. Travel on the real-life Hogwarts Express and cross the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, one of the most recognisable filming locations from the movies.

If you have time, you might want to consider pairing it with a tour that visits Alnwick Castle, which was a filming location for Hogwarts School.

If I only have one day available, what tour should I choose?

It depends on your interests. Choose Loch Ness for spectacular Highland scenery all day; a Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond tour offers a more relaxed experience, but still with beautiful landscapes.

If you're a Harry Potter or train fan, you can ride the Jacobite Steam Train or watch it cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Can you suggest two tours that fit well together?

A Loch Ness day trip and a Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond tour make an excellent combination, covering both Highland scenery and Scottish history.

Alternatively, pair the Jacobite Steam Train excursion with a tour that includes a whisky distillery for two unforgettable but very different Scottish experiences.

Explore Scotland with Scottish Tours

Whether you’re searching for a spectacular Loch Ness day trip or visiting Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond, Scottish Tours offers an outstanding choice of expertly guided day tours from Edinburgh.

Browse our range of tours from Edinburgh and book today.

Photo credits: VisitBritain, VisitScotland and Shutterstock