Weekend & Day Trips from Edinburgh, Scotland

Location:

Burntisland, Fife, Scotland

Highlights:

Looking for a charming seaside escape less than an hour from Edinburgh? We’d definitely point you to Burntisland —a historic coastal town packed with tradition, sea views, and fun seasonal events.

Recommended For:

History lovers, families, coastal walkers, and anyone wanting a quick, memorable getaway from Edinburgh.

What I Love: ♥

The long-running Highland Games, one of the world's oldest golf clubs, access to the Fife Coastal Path, and the mix of history and seaside charm.

• Walk the scenic Fife Coastal Path or relax on Burntisland Beach with summer amusements, a leisure center, and a classic carnival vibe.
• Visit during July to experience the Highland Games, a Scottish tradition that draws crowds and culture lovers each year.
• Explore the local museum and library, which host family-friendly events and showcase Burntisland’s deep history.
• Enjoy boating at the historic harbor or book a guided walking tour to learn about the town’s 12th-century roots and connection to Rossend Castle.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Around 40 minutes by train or car.

How to Get to Burntisland:

By train, head to Burntisland Station on the Fife Circle Line from Edinburgh Waverley. By car, take the A90 across the Queensferry Crossing and continue on the A921 into town.

Location:

Crail, East Neuk of Fife, Scotland

Highlights:

If you're after seafood, seaside charm, and Scottish history wrapped into one peaceful escape, we can’t recommend Crail enough. This tiny harbor town in East Neuk of Fife is like stepping back in time—only with some of the freshest crab and lobster you'll ever eat.

Recommended For:

Food lovers, history buffs, nature fans, and anyone craving quiet coastal beauty.

What I Love: ♥

The Food Festival’s foodie energy, the 17th-century architecture, fossils on the beach, and incredible local eats like The Lobster Hut and Nosebag.

• Stroll through cobbled streets and past centuries-old buildings, including the 17th-century tolbooth tower.
• Feast on freshly caught seafood from the Lobster Hut, or enjoy hearty Scottish fare at Nosebag.
• Attend the Crail Food Festival if you're visiting in summer—it’s a highlight of the local calendar for good reason.
• Discover fossilized trees on the beach and explore the Crail Museum or visit the nearby Isle of May nature reserve for seabird watching.

Distance from Edinburgh:

About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Crail:

Drive northeast from Edinburgh on the A90, cross the Queensferry Crossing, then follow signs to A92 and take A917 into Crail. There’s also bus service from Edinburgh to Anstruther, then a short local taxi ride into Crail.

Location:

Elie, East Neuk of Fife, Scotland

Highlights:

When you want laid-back coastal elegance with a splash of adventure, we always think of Elie . It’s the perfect seaside escape with golden beaches, sailing, and a touch of historic glamour.

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, art seekers, and anyone looking for a refined yet relaxed summer retreat.

What I Love: ♥

The golden sand, windsurfing in the bay, elegant old homes, golf courses, and the buzzing summer vibe when Edinburgh and Glasgow residents flock in.

• Relax on wide golden beaches or try windsurfing, paddleboarding, or sailing in the scenic harbor.
• Wander through the village to spot historic architecture, including Lady Janet Anstruther’s 18th-century summer house.
• Play a round at one of two local golf courses, both with stunning views of the coastline.
• Explore art galleries, small boutiques, and great local restaurants shared between Elie and neighboring Earlsferry.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on your route and mode of transport.

How to Get to Elie:

Take the A90 north across the Queensferry Crossing, continue on A92, then follow A915 and local signs into Elie. Buses and ScotRail service to nearby towns (like Leven or Kirkcaldy) with short taxi rides can also get you there comfortably.

Location:

Falkirk, Forth Valley, Scotland

Highlights:

If you're craving a mix of mind-blowing engineering, rich Scottish history, and beautiful trails just outside Edinburgh, Falkirk is a total win. It’s just 23 miles away and feels like stepping into a blend of modern marvels and medieval legends.

Recommended For:

History seekers, art and engineering buffs, hikers, cyclists, and fans of Outlander.

What I Love: ♥

The jaw-dropping Kelpies statues, the world’s only rotating boat lift, Blackness Castle’s ship-like silhouette, and cinematic landscapes featured in Outlander.

• Marvel at The Kelpies, the world’s largest horse sculptures standing 30 meters tall.
• Ride the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift that connects two canals in the most futuristic way imaginable.
• Step back in time at 15th-century Blackness Castle, perched dramatically on the Firth of Forth like a stone ship.
• Explore cycling and hiking trails, or take a guided Outlander location tour through castles and Highland backdrops.

Distance from Edinburgh:

About 40 minutes by car or train.

How to Get to Falkirk:

From Edinburgh, take the M9 motorway or hop on a ScotRail train from Edinburgh Waverley to Falkirk High or Falkirk Grahamston stations. Both routes are quick and scenic.

Location:

Fife Coastal Path, Fife, Scotland

Highlights:

Looking to combine dramatic Scottish coastline, history, and wildlife into one unforgettable trek? The Fife Coastal Path has it all—linking charming towns, ancient ruins, and nature preserves across nearly 120 miles of scenic walking.

Recommended For:

Avid hikers, casual ramblers, photographers, coastal town explorers, and history fans.

What I Love: ♥

The epic variety—from beaches to abbey ruins, fishing villages to lava flows—and the flexibility to hike it in sections or as a full journey.

• Start in Kincardine and explore the eleven-mile section to Limekilns with nature reserves and iconic Scottish bridges.
• Continue through Rosyth, Aberdour, and Burntisland, where 14th-century castles, historic churches, and beach views define the path.
• Marvel at lava flows, the ruins of Macduff Castle, and the fishing villages between Buckhaven and Elie, with a stop at the Dumbarnie Wildlife Preserve.
• Tackle rougher, geologically rich trails to Cambo Sands and Leuchars, with St. Andrews and Eden Estuary along the way—perfect for advanced hikers.
• End your journey via Wormit Bay to Newburgh, winding through Tentsmuir Forest, ancient churches, and the stunning ruins of Balmerino Abbey.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Varies by section—reaches of the path are accessible within 1 to 2 hours by car or train.

How to Get to the Fife Coastal Path:

Entry points depend on the section—Kincardine, Burntisland, Elie, St Andrews, and Newburgh are all accessible via ScotRail, bus, or car. Each town makes a great base for a section hike.

Romantic Day Trips from Edinburgh:

Location:

Glasgow, Scotland

Highlights:

If you're craving big-city energy with serious culture, Glasgow is a must—just an hour from Edinburgh and packed with music, museums, and historic charm. It's one of those places where every corner feels alive with something to see or hear.

Recommended For:

Culture lovers, museum goers, foodies, music fans, and anyone craving a dynamic city vibe without going far.

What I Love: ♥

The UNESCO City of Music status, cutting-edge galleries and museums, legendary pubs, lush parks, and nonstop creative energy.

• Tour the city on foot or by open-top bus, visiting iconic sights like Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the Riverside Museum, and Glasgow Cathedral.
• Immerse yourself in music—Glasgow hosts over 130 live performances each week and the world’s largest winter music fest, Celtic Connections.
• Shop and stroll in vibrant districts like the Merchant City and the West End, packed with boutiques, cafes, and vintage gems.
• Explore massive green spaces like Glasgow Green and the Botanic Gardens, or hit the pubs for whisky, live music, and local flavor.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Just about 1 hour by train, bus, or car.

How to Get to Glasgow:

Direct trains from Edinburgh Waverley run every 15 minutes to Glasgow Queen Street. Driving takes just over an hour via the M8, and buses depart regularly from Edinburgh Bus Station.

Location:

Glencoe, Scottish Highlands

Highlights:

Want to truly unplug and dive into Scotland’s wild, cinematic heart? Glencoe is the kind of place where nature, legend, and Highland culture all collide in the most breathtaking way.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, hikers, history buffs, photographers, and film location seekers.

What I Love: ♥

Towering mountains, rich folklore, iconic film locations, and trails that whisper ancient Highland stories around every bend.

• Visit the Glencoe and North Lorn Museum to learn about the haunting Glencoe Massacre and explore local heritage.
• Hike through dramatic landscapes used in films like Braveheart, Highlander, and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
• Enjoy summer golf with epic views, or embrace winter with skiing and snowboarding at Glencoe Mountain Resort.
• Wander scenic trails by River Coe and Loch Leven, where every photo feels like a postcard.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Around 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Glencoe:

From Edinburgh, drive via M9 and A82 for the most direct and scenic route. Buses run to nearby Ballachulish, with taxi connections available to Glencoe village.

Location:

Glentress Forest, Tweed Valley, Scotland

Highlights:

If you're after fresh air, epic trails, and just a bit of adventure, Glentress Forest is a fantastic outdoor escape—only an hour from Edinburgh and perfect for hiking, biking, or even a peaceful walk with your dog.

Recommended For:

Outdoor adventurers, mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders, and families looking for an active day out.

What I Love: ♥

Over 50 miles of trails, top-notch biking infrastructure, great facilities at Glentress Peel, and the mix of nature and convenience all in one place.

• Explore extensive biking and hiking trails suitable for all levels—plus dedicated horseback riding paths.
• Relax at the Glentress Peel Café or visit the Wild Watch Center for a closer look at local wildlife.
• Rent bikes on-site and take advantage of well-maintained changing rooms and restrooms.
• Plan ahead by checking trail conditions on the Forestry and Land Scotland website, especially during inclement weather.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Around 1 hour by car.

How to Get to Glentress Forest:

Drive south on the A703 or A701 to Peebles, then follow signs to Glentress Forest. Parking is available at the Peel Center, which also serves as the main trailhead.

Affordable Day Trips from Edinburgh:

Location:

House of Bruar, Perthshire, Scotland

Highlights:

Looking for a luxurious yet laid-back day of shopping, Scottish eats, and countryside elegance? The House of Bruar is your one-stop destination—perfect for an indulgent afternoon just north of Pitlochry.

Recommended For:

Food lovers, art enthusiasts, countryside shoppers, and anyone craving a traditional Scottish retail experience with top-tier flair.

What I Love: ♥

The Art Gallery, the sprawling Food Hall, Scottish gifts, and cozy café dining—all wrapped in classic Highland style.

• Shop Scottish country fashion, sporting gear, and home gifts in a beautifully curated retail space.
• Browse the Art Gallery, featuring works by renowned Scottish artists and landscape pieces that echo the surrounding Highlands.
• Sample traditional cuisine at The Food Hall—from local meats and smoked fish to handpicked teas, fine cheeses, and artisan chocolate.
• Relax in the restaurant or café after filling your hamper with delicacies like preserves, baked goods, and Scottish whisky.

Distance from Edinburgh:

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to House of Bruar:

Drive north on the M90, then take A9 toward Pitlochry. The House of Bruar is located just beyond Blair Atholl and has ample free parking.

Location:

Inverness, Scottish Highlands

Highlights:

Want to see if Nessie makes an appearance or just soak up Highland magic? Inverness is more than Loch Ness—it’s a cultural and scenic Highland hub with castles, canals, and charming markets.

Recommended For:

Highland romantics, Outlander fans, castle chasers, history lovers, and travelers craving both urban culture and wild landscapes.

What I Love: ♥

Ness Islands' nature trails, canal kayaking, the iconic Inverness Castle, and the rich historic heart found in Victorian Market and free museums.

• Visit Inverness Castle for epic views over River Ness and the rolling Highland hills.
• Walk or cycle the peaceful Ness Islands paths, or go boating along the Caledonian Canal.
• Explore the Victorian Market, open since 1890, filled with local crafts, gifts, and independent shops.
• Tour with a local guide—by bus or on foot—many stops include Outlander sites and stories from the area’s real and fictional past.
• Discover Scottish art and history for free at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery on Castle Wynd.

Distance from Edinburgh:

About 3.5 hours by car or train.

How to Get to Inverness:

Take the A9 north from Edinburgh for a scenic drive, or hop on a direct ScotRail train from Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness Station. Flights from Edinburgh Airport are also available and quick.