5-Day Itinerary for Scotland: Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Hollyroodhouse, Camera Obscura, Highlands, Glencoe, Inverness, Lochness, Hogwarts Express Train

1. Day 1: Edinburgh Castle
   Located in central Edinburgh
   Start your trip by immersing yourself in Scotland's rich history at Edinburgh Castle. Explore the medieval fortress and palace, and don't miss the famous Royal Scottish Regalia and the One O'Clock Gun.
2. Day 2: Palace of Holyroodhouse and Camera Obscura
   Both located in central Edinburgh
   Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Don't miss the impressive Great Gallery and the historic Abbey. Afterward, head to Camera Obscura, where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and a rooftop view of the city.
   Est. time from Edinburgh Castle: 20 minutes
   Est. distance from previous: 1 mile
3. Day 3: Glencoe and Highlands
   Located northwest of Edinburgh
   Take a scenic drive and journey into the Scottish Highlands. Explore the stunning landscape of Glencoe, where you can see the dramatic peaks of Buachaille Etive Mor and learn about the area's fascinating history at the Glencoe Visitor Centre.
   Est. time from previous: 2 hours
   Est. distance from previous: 100 miles
4. Day 4: Inverness and Lochness
   Located in northern Scotland
   Head to Inverness, known as the capital of the Highlands, and explore its impressive castle and Cathedral. From there, take a trip to the famous Loch Ness, and discover the area's myths and legends at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition.
   Est. time from previous: 2.5 hours
   Est. distance from previous: 110 miles
5. Day 5: Hogwarts Express Train
   Located in the West Highlands
   Take a ride on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. Enjoy the scenic journey from Fort William to Mallaig, and take in the breathtaking views of the Western Highlands and the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
   Est. time from previous: 1.5 hours
   Est. distance from previous: 50 miles

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edinburgh Castle (2-3 hours, £17.50)
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (1-2 hours, £16.50)
• Camera Obscura (1-2 hours, £15.50)
• Glencoe Visitor Centre (1-2 hours, £10)
• Inverness Castle (1-2 hours, Free)
• Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition (1-2 hours, £10)
• Jacobite Steam Train (5-6 hours, £47)
Total Estimated Costs: £116.50

Useful Tips

For more time, consider exploring other attractions in Edinburgh, such as the Royal Botanic Garden or the National Museum of Scotland. To save money, consider purchasing a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass or a Scottish Heritage Pass, which provides discounted access to multiple attractions.

If you have less time, consider skipping Inverness and Loch Ness or truncating the train ride to a shorter route.