3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Scotland

  • Day 1: Edinburgh Castle
    10 minutes (0.5 miles) from Royal Mile (starting point)

    The Edinburgh Castle is a medieval fortress that dominates the skyline of the city of Edinburgh. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Scottish capital and experience the changing face of Edinburgh through its military and royal past.

  • Day 2: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
    3 hours (140 miles) from Edinburgh Castle

    Loch Ness is the largest freshwater lake in Britain and renowned worldwide for its suspected "monster." Next to Loch Ness is the impressive ruin of Urquhart Castle, a medieval fortress that enjoyed a prominent role in Scotland's history.

  • Day 3: Arthur's Seat
    15 minutes (1.5 miles) from Royal Mile (starting point)

    Arthur's Seat is the highest point in Edinburgh with panoramic views of the city. This historically significant hill is topped by an iron age fort and is a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic, a casual stroll or a hike.


Time and Costs Estimates

  • Edinburgh Castle (3 hours, £17.50)
  • Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle (10 hours, £27.50)
  • Arthur’s Seat (2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £45.00

Transportation

For the Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat, walking is the best transportation option, as they are both located in the heart of Edinburgh. To get to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, you can take the Citylink bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Drumnadrochit, which takes approximately 3 hours and costs around £14 each way.


Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add the Scottish National Gallery, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Royal Yacht Britannia to your itinerary. If you have less time, you can still experience the amazing views and architecture by strolling on the streets of Edinburgh and visiting Arthur's Seat.


Airports

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located approximately 6 miles west of the city center.

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