30-Day Comprehensive Scotland Adventure: Historic Castles, Scenic Highlands & Vibrant Cities

Day 1: Edinburgh Arrival

Edinburgh, Scotland on April 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Blue Bear Cafe

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cosy environment.
GBP15, 1h

10:30am

Edinburgh Castle

Explore this iconic fortress perched on Castle Rock, offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibitions about Scotland’s royal heritage. Open 9:30am-6pm.
GBP19.50, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Oink

Savour Scotland’s famous hog roast sandwiches in a casual setting near the Royal Mile.
GBP8, 1h

2:30pm

Royal Mile Walk & St Giles’ Cathedral

Stroll down the historic Royal Mile and visit the stunning St Giles’ Cathedral, admiring its intricate architecture.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Enjoy an atmospheric fine-dining experience with Scottish dishes in a uniquely decorated historic building, open until 10:30pm.
GBP50, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Edinburgh Museums & Gardens

Edinburgh, Scotland on April 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Loudons Cafe

Taste freshly baked pastries and speciality coffees in a bright, modern café known for breakfast.
GBP12, 1h

10:00am

National Museum of Scotland

Discover Scottish history, nature, and technology through engaging exhibits in this large, free-to-enter museum. Open 10am-5pm.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Henderson’s Vegan

Enjoy fresh and healthy Scottish vegan dishes in a café with a mission to promote sustainable eating.
GBP14, 1h

3:00pm

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Relax in this beautiful garden showcasing a variety of plants, perfect for an afternoon walk. Open 10am-5pm in April.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Grain Store

Dine on traditional Scottish cuisine with contemporary twists in a warm setting, open until 10pm.
GBP40, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Arthur’s Seat & Departure to St Andrews

Edinburgh to St Andrews, Scotland on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Urban Angel

Fuel up with organic, locally-sourced breakfast dishes in one of Edinburgh’s favourite eateries.
GBP13, 1h

9:00am

Hike Arthur’s Seat

Climb the ancient volcano for spectacular views over Edinburgh, perfect for early morning exploration. Access is free, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Travel to St Andrews by train

Take a scenic approx. 2.5 hours train trip to historic St Andrews, the home of golf and medieval university buildings.
GBP25, 2.5h

3:00pm

Explore St Andrews Old Course and Beach

Walk along the famous golf course and relax at West Sands Beach, enjoying the coastal views.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Seafood Ristorante

Savour fresh seafood dishes with views of the sea in this highly-rated restaurant, open until 10pm.
GBP45, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: St Andrews and Nearby Villages

St Andrews, Scotland on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jennifer's Coffee Shop

Enjoy a traditional hearty Scottish breakfast in this popular local spot.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

St Andrews Cathedral and Castle

Visit the atmospheric ruins of what was once the largest church in Scotland and the adjacent castle, rich in history. Open 9:30am-5pm.
GBP10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Adamson

Enjoy modern British fare highlighting local produce in a stylish setting.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Day trip to Falkland Village

Explore the charming village with its historic palace and quaint streets, about 15 minutes by car.
GBP7 (palace entry), 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Little Italy Restaurant

Relax with Italian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere in St Andrews’ favourite Italian eatery.
GBP30, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Aberdeen

St Andrews to Aberdeen, Scotland on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cult Coffee

Grab excellent coffee and light breakfast options before departure.
GBP8, 1h

9:30am

Train ride to Aberdeen

Enjoy the scenic 2.5-hour train journey northeast to Aberdeen, known as the Granite City.
GBP20, 2.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Silver Darling

Dine on exquisite seafood with views overlooking the harbour, open until 3pm.
GBP40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Aberdeen Art Gallery

Explore an extensive collection of art in a beautifully renovated building. Open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Aberdeen Beach

Stroll along the sandy beach and enjoy the sea air at sunset.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Moonfish Cafe

Enjoy innovative seafood cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a relaxed setting, open until 10pm.
GBP40, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Aberdeen and Surroundings

Aberdeen, Scotland on April 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Morrison’s Haven

Treat yourself to a well-balanced Scottish breakfast in this cosy café near the city centre.
GBP15, 1h

10:00am

Footdee Village and Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Visit Footdee, a historic fishing village, then explore the Maritime Museum showcasing the city’s maritime heritage. Museum open 10am-5pm.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe 52

Enjoy a modern twist on international cuisine with great coffee and atmosphere.
GBP15, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Duthie Park Winter Gardens

Relax in these beautiful greenhouses featuring a collection of exotic plants. Open 10am-5pm.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant

Savour fresh seafood in a historic harbour building, open to 10pm.
GBP45, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel to Inverness

Aberdeen to Inverness, Scotland on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brew Boys

Enjoy quality coffee and light breakfast before journey.
GBP10, 1h

9:00am

Train to Inverness

Take a scenic 3-hour train ride through the Cairngorms National Park towards Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.
GBP30, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Castle Tavern

Relax with traditional pub fare and local ales in the heart of Inverness.
GBP18, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Inverness Castle Viewpoint and Victorian Market

View the picturesque castle area (external as castle currently not open to public) and browse local crafts in the historic market.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at River House Restaurant

Dine on modern Scottish cuisine with views of the River Ness, open until 9:30pm.
GBP40, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Loch Ness and Nearby Castles

Inverness, Scotland on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe 1

Start early with a wholesome breakfast designed to energise before your Loch Ness day trip.
GBP12, 1h

8:30am

Loch Ness Cruise

Take a 1.5-hour cruise on Loch Ness to see stunning scenery and try to spot 'Nessie'. Cruises run from 9am-5pm; book in advance.
GBP20, 1.5h

11:00am

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore the dramatic ruins of this lochside fortress with rich history, open 9:30am-5pm.
GBP10, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Dores Inn

Enjoy traditional pub dishes and views of Loch Ness from this charming local inn.
GBP15, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Inverness and visit Culloden Battlefield

Explore the historic site of the last battle on British soil. Visitor Centre open 9am-5pm.
GBP11, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Dine by the riverside with imaginative Scottish cuisine in a lovely setting, open until 9:30pm.
GBP40, 2h
View Hotel Availability