5-Day Itinerary: York, Edinburgh, Glasgow

1. Day 1: York
   2.5 hours from London by train
   • York Minster - One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe (1-2 hours)
   • York City Walls - Walk along the historic walls of York's city centre (1-2 hours)
   • Shambles - The most famous medieval street in York (30 minutes-1 hour)

   York, the walled city in northeast England, is best known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Start off by touring York Minster, a stunning cathedral with a history dating back to the 7th century. Continue your walk through York's historic city walls and see the famous Shambles, a narrow street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings.

2. Day 2: Edinburgh
   2.5 hours from York by train
   • Edinburgh Castle - Historic fortress with stunning city views (2-3 hours)
   • The Royal Mile - The main thoroughfare of Edinburgh's Old Town (1-2 hours)
   • Arthur's Seat - The highest point in Holyrood Park with panoramic views of Edinburgh (2-3 hours)

   Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city of history, culture and stunning beauty. Start off by touring the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched high on the hill overlooking the city. Continue your walk down the Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare of Edinburgh's Old Town, and ending at Holyrood Palace. For panoramic views, head to Arthur's Seat, the highest point in Holyrood Park.

3. Day 3: Glasgow
   1.5 hours from Edinburgh by train
   • Glasgow Cathedral - Medieval cathedral known for its Gothic architecture (1-2 hours)
   • The Glasgow School of Art - Designed by the famous Scottish architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1-2 hours)
   • Riverside Museum - Museum of transport and travel (2-3 hours)

   Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, has a rich industrial history and an impressive cultural heritage. Start at the historic Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Then, explore the works of famed Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh at the Glasgow School of Art. End your day at the Riverside Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to transport and travel.

4. Day 4: Edinburgh
   1.5 hours from Glasgow by train
   • National Museum of Scotland - Scotland's premier museum dedicated to the nation's history and culture (2-3 hours)
   • Dean Village - Picturesque village in the heart of Edinburgh (1-2 hours)
   • The Palace of Holyroodhouse - Official residence of the monarch in Scotland (1-2 hours)

   Return to Edinburgh to explore more of this beautiful city. Started off by visiting the National Museum of Scotland, dedicated to the country's history and culture. Then, take a peaceful walk through the picturesque Dean Village. Finish with a tour of The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland.

5. Day 5: York
   3 hours from Edinburgh by train
   • Yorkshire Museum - Museum dedicated to the history of York's Roman, Viking and Medieval past (2-3 hours)
   • Clifford's Tower - A historic castle keep in the center of York (1-2 hours)
   • The York Dungeon - A spooky and interactive experience of York's darker history (1-2 hours)

   Return to York for your final day of exploration. Start by visiting the Yorkshire Museum, dedicated to the history of York's Roman, Viking and Medieval past. Then climb the historic Clifford's Tower for panoramic views of the city. Finally, dive into York's spooky past with a visit to The York Dungeon.

Time and Cost Estimates

• York Minster (1-2 hours, £12.50)
• Edinburgh Castle (2-3 hours, £19.50)
• Riverside Museum (2-3 hours, £11)
• National Museum of Scotland (2-3 hours, Free)
• Yorkshire Museum (2-3 hours, £8)
• Total Estimated Costs: £51

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to Loch Lomond or the Scottish Highlands for a scenic escape. For a shorter trip, consider cutting one of the cities and exploring it in more depth. Be sure to check ahead for opening times and closures, as some attractions have limited open hours or require advanced bookings.