Start your trip at Edinburgh Castle, located on a hilltop in the heart of the city. This fortress, which has guarded the city since the 12th century, is home to the Scottish crown jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the famous 15th-century gun Mons Meg. Be sure to catch the One O'Clock Gun firing at, well, 1 pm.
Take a scenic drive to Loch Ness, one of the largest, most mysterious bodies of freshwater in the world. Take a boat tour on the loch, or walk along its banks, trying to catch a glimpse of Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle and soak in the immense beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Drive across the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye, one of the most beautiful islands in Scotland. Explore its rugged coastline, lush glens, and towering mountain ranges. Visit the Old Man of Storr, a unique rock formation that stands over sixty meters high, and the Fairy Pools, crystal-clear pools of water formed by a series of waterfalls.
End your trip at St. Andrews, Scotland's oldest university town and the home of golf. Visit the historic St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral, both of which played a pivotal role in Scotland's history. Take a stroll on the picturesque West Sands beach and grab a pint at one of the many pubs in the town center.
While Scotland is best explored by car, travelers who prefer public transportation can take trains or buses between cities. Trains are faster and more expensive, while buses are slower but cheaper. It is recommended to book tickets in advance and consider a rental car for more flexibility.
Estimated Costs: Train (£20-£40), Bus (£10-£20), Car Rental (£40-£70 per day)
Travel Times: Edinburgh to Loch Ness (3-4hrs), Loch Ness to Isle of Skye (3-4hrs), Isle of Skye to St. Andrews (4-5hrs)
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Glasgow or the Isle of Arran. For a shorter trip, skip Isle of Skye and drive to Stirling instead to see the famous Stirling Castle.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located about 8 miles west of downtown Edinburgh. Glasgow Airport (GLA) is about 9 miles west of downtown Glasgow. Both airports offer domestic and international flights.