4-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands

Day 1: Edinburgh City Discoveries

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Edinburgh Larder

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast in a cosy café known for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It's a perfect place to fuel up before sightseeing.
GBP15, 1h

9:45am

Edinburgh Castle

Explore this iconic fortress with stunning views over the city. Discover centuries of Scottish history inside its walls and the Crown Jewels. Open 9:30am–5pm.
GBP20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ondine Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with a view near the Royal Mile, sampling local dishes like Cullen Skink or fresh oysters.
GBP30, 1h

1:30pm

Royal Mile Walk and St Giles’ Cathedral

Stroll down the historic Royal Mile, visiting landmarks including St Giles’ Cathedral and quaint shops offering Scottish crafts.
Free, 1h 30m

3:00pm

National Museum of Scotland

Delve into Scottish history, culture, and science through interactive and engaging exhibits. Open 10am–5pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Enjoy a luxurious Scottish dinner in an atmospheric historic setting near Edinburgh Castle, famous for its romantic ambience and fine cuisine.
GBP60, 2h

Day 2: Highlands and Loch Ness

Edinburgh to Inverness, Scotland on May 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Early Departure

Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local café before setting off north for the Highlands via car or train.
GBP10, 0h 45m

9:30am

Stop at Pitlochry

Visit this charming Highland town for a brief stroll and coffee break. Take in the picturesque surroundings and small artisan shops.
GBP5, 1h

11:00am

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Arrive at Loch Ness to spot the mythical monster and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle by the lakeshore. Open 9am–6pm.
GBP12, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Loch Ness Inn

Enjoy traditional Scottish fare with views over Loch Ness in this cosy Highland inn.
GBP25, 1h

3:00pm

Drive to Inverness and Explore City Centre

Arrive in Inverness and stroll the Victorian Market and waterfront. Optionally visit Inverness Castle viewpoint (exterior only).
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Dine in a former chapel restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced dishes with a warm ambience near the River Ness.
GBP35, 1h 30m

Day 3: Inverness and Highland Castles

Inverness and Surrounding Highlands, Scotland on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Velocity Café and Bicycle Workshop

Kickstart your day with excellent coffee and a fresh pastry in this quirky café, known for its friendly vibe.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

Culloden Battlefield

Visit the historic site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden with its visitor centre explaining this pivotal moment in Scottish history. Open 9am–5pm.
GBP12, 1h 30m

11:30am

Clava Cairns

Explore these prehistoric burial cairns close to Culloden, a mystical open-air site that reveals ancient Scottish history.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Kitchen Brasserie

Savour a modern Scottish menu using seasonal ingredients in a relaxed setting in central Inverness.
GBP25, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Fort George

Visit this large 18th-century fortress with dramatic views over the Moray Firth. Open 9am–5pm.
GBP8, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Inverness and Relax

Take some downtime for a stroll along the River Ness or enjoy a café stop.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Rocpool Restaurant

Experience contemporary Scottish cuisine in a chic setting offering creative dishes and fine wines.
GBP45, 2h

Day 4: Return via Historic Towns

Inverness to Edinburgh, Scotland on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast in Inverness

Enjoy a quick traditional breakfast before heading back south.
GBP10, 0h 45m

9:00am

Stop at Stirling Castle

Tour one of Scotland’s grandest castles, rich in history and architecture with panoramic views. Open 9:30am–5pm.
GBP18, 2h

11:30am

Visit the Wallace Monument

Climb this iconic tower dedicated to William Wallace for spectacular views and insight into Scottish heroism. Open 10am–5pm.
GBP10, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Portcullis

Dine on traditional Scottish pub fare in the heart of Stirling, offering a cosy atmosphere.
GBP20, 1h

2:30pm

Drive back to Edinburgh

Arrive back in Edinburgh with enough time for a quick evening stroll or souvenir shopping.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Number One at Balmoral

Celebrate your Scottish journey with an exquisite fine dining experience, featuring innovative Scottish dishes in an elegant Michelin-starred setting.
GBP75, 2h