Scotland Adventure: Edinburgh to Isle of Skye and Beyond - 16 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, United Kingdom on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The City Café

Start your day with a classic Scottish breakfast at The City Café, open from 7:30am, known for its hearty and traditional fare.
GBP15, 1h

9:30am

Royal Mile Walk

Stroll the historic Royal Mile, exploring shops, museums, and street performers along this iconic medieval street.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Deacon Brodie's Tavern

Enjoy traditional Scottish pub fare in an atmospheric tavern located right on the Royal Mile.
GBP20, 1h

1:30pm

Calton Hill Hike

Climb Calton Hill for panoramic views of Edinburgh and a chance to photograph the cityscape with monuments like the National Monument.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit National Museum of Scotland

Discover Scotland’s history, culture, and science in this comprehensive museum open until 5pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ondine

Dine on fresh seafood at Ondine, a popular restaurant near the Royal Mile, open until 10:30pm.
GBP35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Edinburgh Highlights

Edinburgh, United Kingdom on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brew Lab

Enjoy specialty coffee and a light breakfast at Brew Lab, open from 8am.
GBP10, 45m

9:00am

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, discovering the Crown Jewels and military history, open from 9:30am.
GBP19.50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Witchery by the Castle

Treat yourself to elegant Scottish cuisine at this iconic castle-adjacent restaurant, open for lunch from 12pm.
GBP40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Holyrood Palace & Park

Visit the Queen’s official residence in Scotland and walk the grounds of Holyrood Park, open until 5pm.
GBP17, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Angels with Bagpipes

Experience modern Scottish dishes in a cozy setting on the Royal Mile, open until 9pm.
GBP30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Edinburgh to Grangemouth

Grangemouth, United Kingdom on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fortitude Coffee

Enjoy artisan coffee and fresh pastries before departing Edinburgh, open from 7:30am.
GBP8, 45m

9:00am

Travel to Grangemouth

Drive approximately 45 minutes to Grangemouth to begin your exploration of nearby attractions.
N/A, 45m

10:00am

Visit The Kelpies

Marvel at the giant 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures at The Helix park, a stunning display of modern art and engineering. Open all day.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Boathouse

Enjoy fresh Scottish seafood with a view near The Kelpies, open from 11am to 9pm.
GBP25, 1h

1:30pm

Travel to Stirling Castle

Short 15-minute drive to Stirling Castle, a historic fortress with spectacular views, opening hours 9:30am to 5pm.
GBP16, 30m

2:00pm

Explore Stirling Castle

Discover Scotland’s history through the castle’s architecture, exhibitions, and royal chambers.
GBP16, 2h

5:00pm

Check into Grangemouth accommodation

Relax after your day’s adventures and prepare for tomorrow’s travels.
Varies, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at The Port Kitchen Bar

Sample local dishes and craft beers in a casual setting, open until 10pm.
GBP20, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Grangemouth to Pitlochry

Pitlochry, United Kingdom on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Paper Island Café

Start your morning with quality coffee and fresh baked goods, open from 8am.
GBP10, 45m

9:00am

Travel to Pitlochry

Drive about 1 hour 15 minutes to Pitlochry, gateway to the Highlands.
N/A, 1h15m

11:00am

Visit The Enchanted Forest

Immerse yourself in the magical nighttime light and sound art installation in Faskally Wood; check the festival schedule as it's seasonal, usually open from late September to early November (confirm dates). If not available, explore Pitlochry’s scenic trails.
GBP20 (if event available), 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hettie’s Tearoom

Enjoy homemade soups, sandwiches, and cakes in a cozy tearoom open from 10am to 4pm.
GBP15, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Pitlochry town center

Wander the charming shops, and perhaps visit the Pitlochry Fish Ladder if interested in nature science.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Victoria’s Restaurant & Coffee Shop

Savor locally sourced dishes in a relaxed environment, open until 9pm.
GBP25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Pitlochry to Lewiston

Lewiston, United Kingdom on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Old Mill Inn

Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast in this welcoming inn, open from 7am.
GBP15, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Lewiston

Drive approximately 2 hours to Lewiston near Inverness, your base for Loch Ness exploration.
N/A, 2h

11:30am

Visit Urquhart Castle

Tour the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness, open 9:30am to 6pm.
GBP14.50, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Loch Ness Inn

Enjoy traditional pub food with a view of the loch, open from 12pm.
GBP20, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Loch Ness Museum and Exhibition

Learn about the history and legend of Loch Ness at the nearby museum, open until 5pm.
GBP5, 1h

5:00pm

Check into Lewiston accommodation

Rest and prepare for the next day’s Isle of Skye adventure.
Varies, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at The Dores Inn

Dine on local specialties and fresh seafood in a picturesque lochside inn, open until 9pm.
GBP30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Local Lewiston Day

Lewiston, United Kingdom on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or nearby café

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast in Lewiston to start your day refreshed.
Varies, 1h

9:30am

Day trip around Loch Ness area

Explore the serene surroundings with walks along the loch, including cryptic Nessie spotting opportunities.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Glenmoriston Arms Hotel

Enjoy a riverside lunch with classic Scottish dishes, open from 12pm.
GBP25, 1h

2:00pm

Opt for a Loch Ness boat tour

Experience the loch from the water with guided cruises available around midday and early afternoon, check booking in advance.
GBP18, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit nearby local distillery

Sample and learn about Scottish whisky production with a guided tour and tasting, if available.
GBP20, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed Restaurant

Enjoy a refined dinner in Inverness nearby, serving seasonal Scottish ingredients, open until 9pm.
GBP40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Lewiston to Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, United Kingdom on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast in Lewiston

Fuel up early for your scenic drive to the Isle of Skye, breakfast available at local cafés.
GBP12, 45m

8:30am

Travel to Isle of Skye

Drive roughly 3 hours to the Isle of Skye taking the picturesque route through the Highlands.
N/A, 3h

12:00pm

Check into accommodation and lunch

Settle into your hotel and enjoy a light lunch nearby. Consider Sea Breezes Restaurant on the island for fresh seafood, open from 12pm.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fairy Pools

Hike and explore the stunning crystal-clear pools and waterfalls in Glenbrittle, open access all day.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax back at lodging

Rest and refresh before dinner.
N/A, N/A

7:30pm

Dinner at The Three Chimneys

Experience fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and creative dishes, booking recommended, open until 9:30pm.
GBP60, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Isle of Skye Adventure

Isle of Skye, United Kingdom on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at nearby café

Enjoy a local breakfast café offering fresh pastries and coffee, open from 8am.
GBP10, 45m

9:15am

Neist Point Lighthouse Visit

Visit the iconic Neist Point Lighthouse on the west coast for dramatic ocean views and photo opportunities, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Glendale House

Enjoy hearty Scottish fare near Neist Point, open 12pm–3pm.
GBP20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Portree Town

Visit the island’s main town with shops, galleries, and a harborfront perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Optional visit to Dunvegan Castle

Discover the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, a short drive from Portree, open until 5pm (seasonal).
GBP12, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Scorrybreac Restaurant

Savor creative dishes with local ingredients, offering fine dining on the Isle of Skye, open until 9pm.
GBP50, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Isle of Skye Leisure

Isle of Skye, United Kingdom on May 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Arriba

Start your day with fresh coffee and breakfast tacos at this popular café in Portree, open from 8am.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

Hike Quiraing

Take a hike through the Quiraing landslip for otherworldly landscapes, best in good weather, open all day.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch in Staffin - The Boatshed Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood in this harbor-side restaurant, open from 12pm.
GBP25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Fairy Glen

Explore this magical and whimsical landscape of hills and strange rock formations, open all day.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to accommodation and unwind

Prepare for travel to Glasgow the next day.
N/A, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Sea Breezes Restaurant

Enjoy the last dinner on Skye with excellent seafood and local dishes, open until 9pm.
GBP35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Travel to Glasgow

Glasgow, United Kingdom on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Have a relaxing breakfast before the long drive to Glasgow.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Glasgow

Approximately 4-hour drive via scenic routes through central Scotland.
N/A, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Gannet

Dine in this acclaimed Glasgow restaurant offering modern Scottish cuisine, open from 12pm.
GBP30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Mural Trail and George Square

Discover vibrant street art scattered around the city center and visit historic George Square, both accessible free and open all day.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)

Enjoy contemporary art exhibits, open until 5pm Thursday to Saturday.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ubiquitous Chip

Experience innovative Scottish cuisine in Glasgow’s West End, open until 9pm.
GBP40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Glasgow Nature & Art

Glasgow, United Kingdom on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Singl-end Café & Bakehouse

A favorite local café serving quality coffee and creative food, open from 7:30am.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

Day trip to Finnich Glen and Zaine's Ladder

Explore this fascinating, mossy gorge and the adventurous Zaine’s Ladder hike near Stirling, about 40 minutes drive from Glasgow.
Free, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Smithy

Relax in a nearby quaint eatery offering traditional Scottish pub food, open until 4pm.
GBP15, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Glasgow, visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery

Explore one of Scotland’s most popular museums with diverse art and exhibitions, open until 5pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Butterfly and the Pig

Enjoy comfort food with a quirky atmosphere in Glasgow’s West End, open until 9pm.
GBP25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Glasgow City Tour

Glasgow, United Kingdom on May 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Gandolfi

Enjoy Scottish café classics in a stylish setting, open from 8am.
GBP15, 1h

9:30am

Glasgow Cathedral visit

Tour this impressive medieval cathedral, open from 9am-5pm daily.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Walk the Necropolis

Explore the Victorian cemetery nearby with stunning city views, open all day.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Ubiquitous Chip

A second chance to taste refined Scottish food at a popular spot, open from 12pm.
GBP30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Shopping and exploring Buchanan Street

Spend your afternoon in Glasgow’s bustling shopping district featuring high street brands and independent stores.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ox and Finch

Enjoy contemporary small plates inspired by Scottish ingredients, open until 10pm.
GBP40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Glasgow Leisure Day

Glasgow, United Kingdom on May 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Singl-end Café & Bakehouse

Start your day with delicious coffee and breakfast items, open from 7:30am.
GBP12, 1h

10:00am

Glasgow Science Centre

Discover interactive exhibits and a planetarium, great for all ages, open 10am–5pm.
GBP12, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Finnieston

Experience vibrant seafood dishes and cocktails in this stylish east end restaurant, open from 12pm.
GBP30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Enjoy peaceful strolls through beautiful gardens with seasonal flowers, open daylight hours.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hanoi Bike Shop

Savor tasty Vietnamese-inspired dishes in a cozy setting, open until 10pm.
GBP25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Glasgow to Bonnyrigg

Bonnyrigg, United Kingdom on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Gandolfi

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before leaving Glasgow, open from 8am.
GBP15, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Bonnyrigg

Drive about 40 minutes to Bonnyrigg for your short stay.
N/A, 40m

10:00am

Tour Dalhousie Castle

Explore this historic and atmospheric 13th-century castle, now a luxury hotel, open for tours by appointment or with your stay.
GBP15 approx, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Dalhousie Dining Room

Dine in the elegant castle dining room featuring Scottish classics.
GBP35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Stroll local countryside

Enjoy gentle walks near Bonnyrigg to take in the area’s pastoral beauty.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Plough Inn

Relax with hearty Scottish dishes in this charming village pub, open until 9pm.
GBP20, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Bonnyrigg to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, United Kingdom on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Plough Inn

Enjoy a cozy breakfast before heading to Edinburgh.
GBP12, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Edinburgh

Short 30-minute drive back to Edinburgh.
N/A, 30m

10:00am

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Explore the iconic castle with its royal chambers and panoramic city views, open 9:30am–6pm.
GBP19.50, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Witchery by the Castle

Dine in a unique Gothic manor with exquisite Scottish dishes, open until 3pm.
GBP40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Relax in this beautiful and extensive garden open until 6pm, perfect for afternoon walks.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check into Edinburgh accommodation

Unwind after your afternoon exploration.
Varies, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Timberyard

Enjoy modern Scottish dining with a farm-to-table ethos, booking recommended, open until 9pm.
GBP50, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Final Edinburgh Day

Edinburgh, United Kingdom on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Loudons

Start your day with fresh, homemade food in a bright café, open from 8am.
GBP15, 1h

9:30am

Explore Museum of Edinburgh

Discover Edinburgh’s rich history through fascinating exhibits, open 10am–5pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Shopping on Princes Street

Browse Scottish souvenirs and high street shops on the city’s main shopping street.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Angels with Bagpipes

Enjoy a last meal in the city with creative Scottish cuisine, open until 3pm.
GBP30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Leisurely walk along Water of Leith

Relax with a scenic walk along this peaceful river path, visiting Dean Village en route.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Witchery by the Castle

End your trip with a luxurious dining experience in a historic setting, booking recommended, open until 10pm.
GBP50, 2h
View Hotel Availability