complete epic 7-day Scotland itinerary: Edinburgh, Highlands, York, more!
So, you want to see the best of Scotland in a week? This epic 7-day Scotland itinerary includes some of Scotland’s most popular sites!
Table of Contents
7-Day Scotland itinerary
Can you see all of the best of Scotland in 7 days? No. We’ll hit the best highlights and popular destinations and I’ll give you some additional ideas in case you want to extend your trip. Lucky you! Don’t have 7 days? No problem, just pick and choose your favorites!
We’ll tour the beautiful scenery of the countryside of the Scottish Highlands, Scotland’s best historic cities (plus one in England!), lovely lochs, and much more! This itinerary includes 1 day in York, England, just a short trip from our home base in Edinburgh. I’ve packed a lot into this itinerary, and tried to give you MOST of the best options. Don’t worry if you can’t fit it all in. Tailor this to fit your tastes and prioritize.
We actually did this as part of an England/Ireland/Scotland trip.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
transportation for this Scotland Itinerary
Scotland itinerary 7 days no car??? This itinerary is planned using tours and public transport. No need for a rental car! While we normally drive in Europe, we chose to forgo a car while in Scotland and England. We saved money on a rental car and as a first-time visitor in Great Britain, we simply didn’t want the stress of getting accustomed to driving on the left hand side of the road. (use Rome2Rio to search public transportation options)
Scotland is bigger than it looks. The drive from Edinburgh to Loch Ness is a 3.5-hour drive, a very long day. If you plan to drive, I’d switch things up and stay a night or two up north. There’s plenty to see along the way! Have reservations about driving on the opposite side of the road? It may help to:
- Rent an automatic.
- Remember, the driver is always in the center of the road, right next to the center line
- spring for the GPS in case you can’t access Google Maps with your phone.
IMPORTANT
Many US credit card companies don’t cover rentals in the UK and Ireland. Check with your card issuer and ask for a letter confirming coverage. If they don’t cover you, you will need to pay the additional cost to purchase coverage through the rental car company.
where to stay in Edinburgh
So, I like the idea of staying in one location on this trip. You’ll only have to unpack once and won’t have the hassle of dragging luggage from place to place. Edinburgh is a good choice. We’ll make day trips from there. I personally prefer the old town city center area. I’ll give you some suggestions later in this article.
Need Luggage Storage?
Stasher Luggage Storage offers luggage storage at several secure and convenient locations across the city. Insurance and 24/7 customer support are included in every booking. Plus, NO size restrictions!
where to eat in Edinburgh
Find the best options for places to eat on Tripadvisor. Google best places to eat in “blank” and then navigate to the Trip Advisor results. A Good reason to use Trip Advisor: you’ll find listings of the best places to eat with photos and customer reviews, but I have one very special recommendation for you!
Booking activities in Edinburgh
Get Your Guide folks! Here’s why I love booking through GYG: free cancellations, reserve now, pay later. You can’t beat it! I’ve covered just a few of the best tours in Edinburgh in this article. You can find more on their website!
Day 1:
The historic city of Edinburgh
I believe that the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Edinburgh with all its historic sites deserves 3 days. This will give you plenty of time to see the sites without feeling rushed. We’ll spend the other 4 on day trips.
Arrival: Edinburgh Scotland
Our adventure starts at Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Try to arrive early in the morning, so you have a full day to spend enjoying this fantastic historic town.
getting money
We like to hit the ATM first thing before we leave the airport. It’s easy and you’ll get the best rates. Be sure to refuse the dynamic currency conversion. (convert to your home currency? NO: you want LOCAL currency rates!) In Scotland and England, you’ll be using the British pound (GBP)
Getting from the airport to (Old town Edinburgh)
Either take a Taxi, tram, or bus to your accommodations. You can book a bus transfer in advance through Edinburgh Bus Tours, only $7.13 per person. Another of my favorite options is to pre-booked private transfer between hotels in the city center and Edinburgh Airport.
exploring Edinburgh: the very best sights
On the first day we explore Edinburgh, a town oozing with Scottish history. In stark contrast to the modern city of Glasgow, the historic buildings in the old town of Edinburgh are dark, Gothic and magnificent! It’s a real medieval dream! You’ll feel as if you’ve been dropped down in the middle of one of the Harry Potter Films!
Our itinerary today focuses on the old town, which contains some of the principal sights of central Edinburgh. Many of the popular sites are part of the Royal Mile, the main road in the old town which runs between Edinburgh Castle on the hill and Holyrood Palace.
These are the sites along or just off the Royal Mile that I recommend for today: (If you can’t fit them all in don’t worry, you have two more full days in Edinburgh!)
- Greyfriars Kirkyard (graveyard) contains a series of beautifully ornate mausoleums, darkened with age. You’ll find names like McGonagall, Moodie, and Riddle. Just outside the kirkyard is the Greyfriars Bobby statue, Edinburgh’s beloved mascot. (Closed on Sunday) Or take this history tour of Greyfriars Kirkyard.
- St. Giles Cathedral (Gothic 15th-19th century)
- 1688 Canongate Church– The Royal family worship here so don’t sit in the front pew, marked with the crown. If the doors are open, go on in! Sunday, late afternoon, is a good time to try. The beautiful gardens just outside are not to be missed!
- The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of King Charles III. Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, and when the King is in town. Also here: Holyrood Abbey, and the Scottish Parliament building where the Houses of Parliament meet. Get tickets here. Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket
- The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: Illusions are the name of the game with 5 floors of over 100 interactive exhibits. The Rooftop Terrace offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh.
- Victoria Street viewing point offers some of the best views of the old town!
- Grassmarket: shopping, restaurants, pubs, cobbled streets, medieval architecture and inspiring views of Edinburgh Castle, one of Europe’s most authentic medieval castles! In good weather it’s a great location to pop into a gift shop or grab an ice cream and people watch!
- National Museum: A natural history museum with Roman and Viking history, witch-burning etc. free!
- The Chocolatarium: Find out how chocolate is made, make your own chocolate bar, and taste over 40 kinds of chocolate during this 90-minute experience.
- Princes Street Gardens: get that iconic view of the Ross Fountain with the Edinburgh castle towering on the hill in the background!
- Scott Monument: This gothic beauty is a monument to Sir Walter Scott.
Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus
Consider the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. I love these for getting the lay of the land on your first day. 24-hour ticket. Noteworthy stops include: St. Andrew Square, Grassmarket, Johnston Terrace (near the castle,) Lawnmarket, National Museum of Scotland, High Street, Canongate, Holyrood.
The Witchery by the Castle for dinner
I’ll let you explore TripAdvisor to find the best restaurants for the rest of your time here, but this 5-star dining experience isn’t optional! Dark candle lit baroque decor, amazing atmosphere, amazing food. Make a reservation (well) in advance.
Witch Obsessed?
Scottish evening entertainment
Edinburgh is flush with Scottish pubs but if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary head on over to Frankenstein’s, a fun gothic venue with an eclectic menu and a monster show!
Day 2:
Loch Ness / Scottish Highlands tour of Scotland
Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness Tour
Even if you don’t have a car that shouldn’t stop you from seeing the countryside, some of the most beautiful places in Scotland. How about a Scottish Highlands scenic drive tour and hunting for the Loch ness monster! So, we opted to take the 12 hour day trip with Rabbie’s.
You can’t go wrong with a Rabbie’s tour company. These tours offer historical commentary and insider knowledge from a local guide. What really sets this company apart is that tours are by van (16 seats) for a more personalized experience. Most of the other companies running tours in the area use those enormous coaches that can transport dozens of passengers.
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands from Edinburgh: 1 day tour
Great Glen glacial valley, Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain, Loch Ness (optional boat cruise), Glen Coe, National Parks, tales of Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace, and Scottish folklore. Your driver-guide takes you to their favourite place within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Cairngorms National Park, plus more! Price: starting at just £94 Per person
Book this Highlands Loch Ness Tour Now!
Read more about the Loch Ness boat excursion here: Hunting Nessie! Loch Ness Boat Tour
Day 3:
Medieval York England
1-day York England itinerary
Today we take an Edinburgh to York England day trip! York is a short 2.5-hour DIRECT train ride from Edinburgh. Take an early train from Waverley Station and spend the balance of the day in York! We purchased advance tickets through LNER, or purchase at the train station.
Get ready for a packed itinerary! Can’t fit it all in? pick your favorites!
- First stop, Betty’s Tea room for breakfast! They serve a delightful traditional English tea service with scones, deliciously delicate sandwiches, and delectable pastries!
- St. Mary’s Abbey Benedictine Ruins (11th century Gothic)
- The Yorkshire Museum: Roman, medieval, and natural history. (Due to time constraints, you may need to choose between this and the Jorvik Experience)
- Walk the stone wall that surrounds the old city.
- The York Minster (the largest Gothic church north of the Alps! This massive 13th century church holds 2,000 people)
- Holy Trinity Church, this 12th-14th century Gothic gem looks exactly that old!
- The Shambles is a crooked little street in York, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, of the Harry Potter series. Today, it’s lined with Harry Potter themed shops.
- Jorvik Viking Center: 40,000 real Viking artifacts were dug out of peat bogs here.
- The Ouse River runs right through the city centre of York, a lovely path winds along the river. City Cruise York offers a short cruise on the River Ouse.
where to eat in York
York Roast Company is a local restaurant that sells roast meat and toppings wrapped in Yorkshire pudding.
for more detailed information on York: How to visit York (includes a map of York attractions)
Day 4:
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh’s underground
Edinburgh Castle
The castle atop Castle Rock hill, an extinct volcano, was the birthplace of this bustling city 1,300 years ago. The Scottish Crown jewels are kept here. St. Margaret’s Chapel, found inside the castle complex, is Edinburgh’s oldest building (1130). Book a 1.5 hour guided tour with skip the line privileges here on Get Your Guide!
August
Edinburgh gets even more crowded in the month of August when the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place at the castle. (performances by members of the British armed forces including drills, marching, bagpipes and more) If you hate crowds avoid this time of year. Love them? Well, it’s a great place to be!
Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour
Tour an underground labyrinth where Edinburgh’s poor lived until the 19th century. Advance tickets recommended. Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour
Harry Potter guided walking tour
This tour takes place daily at 2 p.m. 2 hours, free! meet at 154 High Street on the Royal Mile. Look for tour guides with YELLOW umbrellas!
Arthur’s Seat
climb this hill in Holyrood Park for beautiful views of Edinburgh.
National Portrait Gallery (National Gallery)
this Edinburgh New Town art gallery highlights include works from Botticelli, Monet, and Van Gogh,
Day 5:
Stirling Scotland
Today we make our way to historic Stirling, or mini-Edinburgh as Rick Steves likes to call it. One of the best things about Stirling is that it’s less crowded than Edinburgh!
Take the train from Waverly Station to Stirling, an easy 1-hour direct train. Purchase return tickets at the train station in Edinburgh.
William Wallace Monument
First, we grabbed a taxi to take us to the Wallace Monument, a very famous Scottish landmark. From the ticket office, one of the best ways to get to the monument is to take the shuttle bus up the hill. You can walk but it’s a haul! Plus, once you get to the monument it is 246 stairs to the top of the tower (panoramic views of the surrounding countryside!) We then asked the ticket office to call us another taxi to take us to Stirling Castle.
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is a stately 1,000-year-old castle perched upon a volcanic crag. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here in 1543. We arrived late in the day and joined a small group for the last tours of the day. Consider exploring the lovely town of Stirling and hitting the castle late in the day. After the Tour director finished the tour, we were allowed to wander the castle unsupervised. We practically had the place to ourselves! a nice place to get a break from the crowds in Edinburgh.
Get more details in my Stirling Castle article.
Dinner: The Portcullis, built in 1787, is located at the base of the castle. The cozy atmosphere was quite nice and the food was outstanding!
Day 6:
another Rabbie’s tour!
How about another Rabbie’s tour? You’ll have a LONG list to choose from.
1-day Rabbie’s tours leaving from Edinburgh
St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife
Stops include sweeping coastal views, the traditional fishing village of Anstruther (‘Ainster’), where you can walk along the seafront to the harbour, and the medieval town of St Andrews, home of golf!. You’ll have around two and a half hours to explore this fascinating town.
Outlander Adventure
This one is a must see for Outlander fans, or those interested in historic Scotland.
Stops include: Midhope Castle (Lallybroch, Jamie’s family home,) Blackness Castle (Fort William) Next stop, Linlithgow Palace or Wintworth where Jamie was imprisoned, Mary Queen of Scots was born here. And finally Doune Castle (Leoch, home to Colum MacKenzie and his clan) where you can tour the castle’s impressive great hall.
Loch Lomond National Park, Kelpies & Stirling Castle
Stops include the historic Stirling Castle, Trossachs National Park, Rob Roy MacGregor country, Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s largest Lochs the perfect place to enjoy a short walk and take in fantastic views of the mountains. The Kelpies, the largest pair of horse sculptures in the world.
West Highlands, Lochs & Castles
Inveraray, visit this 18th-century town and discover an ancient jail and a gorgeous castle. Doune Castle, Castle Leoch of Outlander fame, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland. Loch Awe, the longest loch in Scotland. Loch Lomond National Park.
Alnwick Castle, the Northumberland Coast & the Borders
This tour takes you to Scotland’s east coast. Stops include the ruined Abbey in Kelso, Alnwick Castle, filming location for scenes in both Harry Potter (Hogwarts School) and Downton Abbey. And the captivating Northumberland Coastline, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Hadrian’s Wall, Roman Britain & the Scottish Borders
Roman Ruins, UNESCO Heritage Sites, and National Parks! Walk along Hadrian’s Wall which marks the northernmost frontier of the ancient Roman Empire. Vindolanda archaeological site, a Roman auxiliary fort.
Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky
stops include Dunkeld surrounded by forest with cathedral ruins, it’s a short few minute drive from here to the Hermitage, where you’ll experience a woodland walk among giant Douglas firs, Queen’s View said to have been a favorite of the queens, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery for whiskey tasting.
Rosslyn Chapel & the Scottish Borders
Scott’s View, William Wallace Statue, 12th-century Cistercian Melrose Abbey which is said to contain the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce, 15-century Rosslyn Chapel made famous by “the Da Vinci Code” with it’s Knights of Templar and the Holy Grail connections.
Discover Malt Whisky
Glengoyne Distillery, Loch Lomond National Park, Deanston Distillery,
Bonnie Lochs & Bold Whisky
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Loch Katrine (Roger and Brianna’s picnic site, season 2, Outlander,) Cycle, cruise, or stroll around the Loch or take a steamship cruise instead, Glenturret Distillery.
Private tours from Edinburgh
Personally tailored private tours can be booked with Rabbie’s. From the west coast to the east, the north coast to the southern boundaries. Flexible pick-ups and drop offs, dates and times, leave the planning to them!
multi-day tours from Edinburgh
Have more time? Rabbie’s also offers multi day tours from Edinburgh and there are plenty to choose from the like these:
- 3-day Isle of Skye (Isle of Sky) tour where you’ll see the Old Man of Storr and the hauntingly beautiful Eilean Donan castle ruins. Others take you to the Isle of Mull and Inner Hebrides and beyond! It’s a great way to see Scotland, book a Rabie’s tour now!
- 2-Day Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express: Want to see the famous Harry Potter train? This tour takes you north to the Glenfinnan Viaduct where you’ll ride the Jacobite Steam Train, sometimes referred to as the Hogwarts Express Train. (accommodation included, Highland Experience Tours NOT Rabbie’s)
Day 7:
Edinburgh
Let’s slow things down a bit for our last day and spend it in Edinburgh. If you missed something today is the day to work it in.
You may be interested in these additional attractions in Edinburg:
- Calton Hill: Volcanic hill overlooking the city with scenic panoramic views and neoclassical monuments, including the National Monument. In the 19th century, Edinburgh was envisioned as the ‘Athens of the North’ and Calton Hill was considered Edinburgh’s version of the Athenian Acropolis.
- Dean Village is an idyllic neighborhood that can be found right in the heart of Edinburgh. A tranquil stream runs through the neighborhood which is home to charming storybook buildings. You may be interested in this self-guided audio tour of Dean Village.
Additionally, here are some fun ideas to fill your itinerary:
- ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise
- Underground Vaults Tour
- Witches Trials and Truth Tour
- Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots
- Scenic Bike Tour
- The Edinburgh Dungeon Entrance Ticket
- 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour
Edinburgh Hotels and Accommodations
These are a few of my favorite stand out places to stay within close proximity to the Royal Mile: (want to save money on hotels? Get out of the city center!)
The Witchery
This absolute splurge offers the unique opportunity to surround yourself with unadulterated luxury!!! The Witchery by the Castle has several lavish and uniquely decorated suites. Opulent interiors are furnished in gothic old-world style.
If you don’t feel like a member of Europe’s most prominent royalty here in this fabulous hotel, well you better check your pulse! It’s an experience worth saving your pennies for! Guest rating: 9.2. Prices start at $1,123 per night. Book the Witchery on Booking.com!
The Queens View
This BEAUTIFULLY decorated apartment is situated right on the Royal Mile, with a balcony for you to view the goings on from your own perch! Guest rating: 9.3. Prices start at $222 per night. Book the Queens View on Booking.com!
The Inn on the Mile
This gorgeous luxury hotel is another Royal Mile beauty. This columned building gives off Greek neoclassical vibes and sits just steps from Princes Street and Edinburgh Waverley Rail Station. Guests can enjoy full tea complete with Scottish delicacies. Guest rating 8.3. Prices start at $297 per night. Book the Inn on the Mile on Booking.com!
The Scotsman Hotel
This one’s a bit of a splurge but you will feel like Royalty in this fancy 4-star hotel, built in 1905! Centrally located overlooking Carlton Hill and Princes Street Gardens and just steps away from Waverley Station. Guest rating: 8.3. Prices start at $370 per night. Book the Scotsman on Booking.com!
Melville Castle Hotel
Want to stay in a castle? This exquisite 4-star castle hotel is located 11 km from The Mile so you’ll need to take public transportation to get back and forth to attractions but it’s a castle! Guest rating: 8.5 Prices starting at $255 per night. Book this castle stay on Booking.com!
Budget Options
Kick Ass Greyfriars (18+)
Situated in the centre of Edinburgh, 800 metres from Royal Mile this 4-star hostel is a great option for anyone looking to save money. Shared bathrooms, offers a buffet or continental breakfast. Guest rating: 7.9. Prices start at: $27 per night. Book it on Booking.com!
CoDE Pod – The CoURT – Edinburgh
Situated in the Old Town in Edinburgh, this attractively decorated hostel offers breakfast each morning
Guest rating: 9.7 Prices start at: $46 per night Book CoDE on Booking.com!
when in Rome, Scottish food!
Things to try “when in Scotland,” get some Scottish culture!
- Haggis, it’s minced organ meat with herbs and spices. They served it with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes.)
- Scotch Eggs, a boiled egg encased in sausage, breaded and deep fried, try them at The Ensign Ewart in Edinburgh (dates back to 1680.)
- Full Scottish Breakfast: bacon, link sausages, Lorne sausage (also known as square sausage or slice), black pudding, haggis, baked beans, fried mushrooms and tomatoes, toast, tattie scones and fried eggs, a little bit of everything!
Map of Edinburgh attractions
(Click the map to open an interactive map of the most popular attractions in old town Edinburgh)
Scotland Itinerary trip cost and money saving tips
How much does a trip to Scotland cost? This is a per person estimate based on double occupancy for this 7 day itinerary Scotland.
(2024 prices)
| hotel | $777.00 (7 nights) |
| Tours and admission | $500 (dependent on which activities you choose, many activities in this article included, plus two Rabbie’s day trips) |
| Train travel | $145 (train travel in the UK can be EXPENSIVE. Approx. $122 of this is Edinburgh to York round trip) |
| Misc. Transportation | $20 |
| estimated total = | $1,442 per person (plus the cost of food/drinks) |
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Protect yourself with trip insurance
Protect your investment with “cancel for any reason” trip insurance. Did you know that pandemics, as well as a LONG list of other situations aren’t covered by most trip insurance policies (including those airlines offer when purchasing tickets)?
MOST of these scenarios are covered when you purchase a “cancel for any reason” policy! My favorite place to compare prices is at Travel Insurance.com! but don’t delay, most CFAR policies need to be purchased within 14-21 days of your initial trip payment.
Travel Resources
Check out my Travel Resources page to learn how to get the best deals on airfare, rental cars, accommodations, language learning resources and more!
Edinburgh City Pass: money saving discount pass
You may save money by purchasing the Edinburgh City Pass. Tickets can be purchased online at the Edinburgh City Pass website.
2024 City pass prices:
One Day Edinburgh City Pass £55 per adult / £35 per child
Two Day Edinburgh City Pass £75 per adult / £45 per child
Three Day Edinburgh City Pass £95 per adult / £50 per child
The pass covers these attractions and more:
Free 24-hour hop-on hop-off City Bus Tour
Free return ticket from airport to city centre
Free boat tour
Free Edinburgh Vaults Tour
Free entry to the Scott Monument Museum
When is the best time to go to Scotland?
Scotland can be visited year-round, especially since many of these activities are indoors. Scotland has a ‘temperate’ climate with four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Pack your rain gear year-round, and layer up for cold temperatures in winter which is the least crowded time to visit but check opening days and times. Some attractions may be closed in winter. Summers are nice and cool. However, you’ll be dealing with crowds. Spring and fall are considered shoulder seasons and will be less crowded than summer.
crowd beating travel tip
The tourist areas of Edinburgh are horribly crowded, unfortunate because it does detract from the splendor. The best time to explore is either early morning or late evening when the day crowds have dissipated. Weekdays may be less crowded than weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many days is enough for Scotland?
Three days isn’t a lot of time. However, with limited time you could get by on a minimum of 3 days. That gives you two days for Edinburgh, Scotland’s best historic city, and another day for a day tour to somewhere special like the Highland’s.
Is 7 days enough for Scotland? Is one week enough time to properly visit Scotland?
Seven days is enough to ensure you see many of Scotland’s top attractions.
What is a 7-day itinerary in Scotland? what to see in scotland in 7 days:
I recommend the historic city of Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands, historic York England, Stirling Scotland, and a day trip or two of your choice. With extra time you can add more thrilling sites!
