4-Night Cultural and Scenic Escape in Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands

Day 1: Historic Edinburgh Introduction

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Edinburgh Larder

Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast or artisan toast with locally sourced coffee in this cosy, locally loved cafe open from 8am on weekdays.
GBP10, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Explore Scotland's iconic fortress perched above the city with rich history and panoramic views. Open 9:30am-6pm from May to October.
GBP19.50, 2h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at The Witchery by the Castle

Dine in an atmospheric setting with exquisite Scottish cuisine located a short walk from the castle, perfect for a memorable midday meal.
GBP35, 1h15m

2:15pm

Explore the Royal Mile

Stroll the historic Royal Mile with its shops, street performers, and landmarks including St Giles' Cathedral. Open public access all day.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Discover Scottish history, culture, and science in this nationally significant museum open daily until 5pm, free to enter.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ondine

Feast on fresh seafood dishes at this elegant yet relaxed restaurant in the city centre, open till 10pm.
GBP40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Highland Whisky and Lochs

Pitlochry, Scotland on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Start early with a full Scottish breakfast to fuel the journey north to Pitlochry, estimated 1.5-hour drive from Edinburgh.
GBP12, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Blair Athol Distillery

Tour and tasting at this historic whisky distillery in Pitlochry, open from 10am to 4pm, providing insight into whisky making.
GBP12, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Old Mill Inn

Enjoy traditional pub fare with a scenic view near the River Tummel, open from noon to 3pm on weekdays.
GBP18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Loch Faskally and Pitlochry Dam

Walk along the beautiful Loch Faskally and visit the Pitlochry Hydro Electric Dam visitor centre, open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive towards Inverness with stops

Drive north towards Inverness with photo stops at scenic spots in the Cairngorms National Park, approx 2 hours drive.
Variable fuel cost, 2h0m

6:00pm

Check into Inverness hotel and dinner at The Mustard Seed

Relax with dinner in this popular riverside restaurant, serving modern Scottish dishes, open till 9:30pm.
GBP35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Loch Ness and Inverness Exploration

Inverness, Scotland on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Castle Cafe

Enjoy fresh coffee and breakfast pastries a short walk from the city centre, open from 7:30am.
GBP8, 1h0m

9:30am

Loch Ness boat tour

Take a 1.5-hour boat cruise on Loch Ness to spot the famous monster and stunning scenery, tours run from 9am to 4pm.
GBP20, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore the ruins of this historic castle beside Loch Ness, open 9:30am-6pm during summer months.
GBP12, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Dores Inn

Dine by the edge of Loch Ness at this cosy pub serving hearty Scottish meals, open 12pm-9pm.
GBP20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Inverness city centre and Victorian Market

Walk around Inverness's charming streets and historic Victorian Market for souvenirs and local life.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Inverness Castle viewpoint

Take in panoramic views over the River Ness and city from the castle grounds, freely accessible all day.
Free, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Kitchen Brasserie

Celebrate with refined Scottish cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere in Inverness city centre, open until 10pm.
GBP40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Return to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Inverness

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading back south, with complementing local produce and coffee.
Included in accommodation, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive from Inverness to Edinburgh

Make the 3-hour drive back to Edinburgh, with optional stops in Pitlochry or Perth for breaks and sightseeing.
Variable fuel cost, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch stop at Perth

Grab a quick bite at The Almond Blossom, a popular local Mediterranean cafe open during lunch hours.
GBP15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Edinburgh hotel and rest

Arrive back in Edinburgh and relax or explore nearby Princes Street Gardens.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Number One at Balmoral

Experience fine dining at this Michelin-starred restaurant, perfect for a memorable last evening in Edinburgh. Reservations recommended; open till 10pm.
GBP75, 2h0m
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