12-Day Budget-Friendly Scotland Itinerary: Kelpies to Loch Ness with Bookshops and Workshops

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 1, 2025

8:00am

Check-in at Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Breakfast Included

Settle into this budget-friendly hotel centrally located in Edinburgh; rooms are comfortable and breakfast is included.
GBP70, 1h

9:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the included continental breakfast featuring cereals, fruits, and hot options to fuel your day.
Included, 1h

10:30am

Visit Book Lovers Bookshop

Browse this cozy independent bookshop offering a range of new and used books, a must-visit for any literature enthusiast.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Bear Café

Enjoy fresh, affordably priced sandwiches and soups in a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a midday break.
GBP15, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Edinburgh Old Town

Stroll on the Royal Mile and explore historic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Grassmarket area.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy some downtime and views of Edinburgh Castle in this lovely green space.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mussel Inn

A cozy restaurant serving budget-friendly Scottish seafood including fresh mussels and chowders.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 2: Edinburgh Islander Experience

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a substantial breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Islander Workshop Experience

Join this unique hands-on workshop to learn about Scottish island crafts and culture, booking in advance recommended.
GBP40 per person, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hendersons Vegan

Enjoy a healthy, affordable vegan meal in one of Edinburgh’s oldest vegetarian restaurants.
GBP18, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Waterstones - Edinburgh Princes Street

Explore one of the largest bookstores in Edinburgh with a broad selection of books and a cozy cafe.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat

Take a moderate hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic city views, great for an afternoon adventure.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at David Bann

A well-reviewed budget-friendly vegetarian restaurant offering delicious Scottish-inspired dishes.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 3: Kelpies and Falkirk

Falkirk, Scotland on September 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ibis Edinburgh

Enjoy your included breakfast before traveling.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Falkirk (Train approx 45 min)

Take a convenient train from Edinburgh to Falkirk for scenic views and easy access to major attractions.
GBP12 per person, 45m

10:00am

Visit The Kelpies

Marvel at these massive, iconic horse-head sculptures; take a walk around the Helix Park and river.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at World Buffet, Falkirk

Enjoy a budget-friendly buffet with diverse options including local and international cuisine.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Falkirk Wheel

Witness this unique rotating boat lift in operation; the Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits.
GBP10, 1.5h

4:00pm

Travel to Stirling (15-minute train)

Short train ride to Stirling for overnight stay.
GBP5 per person, 15m

5:00pm

Check-in at The Smith Art Hotel – Breakfast Included

Affordable boutique-style accommodation with continental breakfast located near Stirling’s center.
GBP65, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bothy

Enjoy hearty Scottish pub food with affordable pricing in a friendly atmosphere.
GBP22, 1.5h
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Day 4: Stirling and Travel to Inverness

Stirling to Inverness, Scotland on September 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Smith Art Hotel

Start your day with the included hotel breakfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Stirling Castle

Explore this historical fortress known for its role in Scottish history and spectacular views.
GBP18 per person, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at The Drip Inn

Affordable café offering Scottish specialties and light meals.
GBP15, 1h

1:00pm

Train to Inverness (around 3.5 hours)

Travel north to Inverness, gateway to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness.
GBP35 per person, 3.5h

4:30pm

Check-in at The Grassmarket Hotel - Breakfast Included

Cozy, budget-friendly hotel in Inverness offering breakfast and central location.
GBP75, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hootananny

Popular pub with live Scottish music and affordable meals focusing on local produce.
GBP20, 1.5h
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Day 5: Loch Ness Exploration

Inverness, Scotland on September 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Grassmarket Hotel

Included full Scottish breakfast to kick off your day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Loch Ness Boat Tour

Take a scenic cruise on Loch Ness to spot the legendary monster and enjoy stunning surroundings.
GBP18 per person, 1.5h

11:00am

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore the ruins of this picturesque castle overlooking Loch Ness with photo opportunities.
GBP8 per person, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Dores Inn

Budget-friendly pub with views of Loch Ness, offering simple but tasty Scottish dishes.
GBP18, 1h

2:30pm

Walk along Loch Ness Shoreline

Leisurely walk enjoying fresh air, scenery, and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Inverness

Head back to Inverness and relax before dinner.
Bus fare approx GBP5 per person, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Castle Tavern

Well-recommended spot for affordable pub food and a good selection of local beers.
GBP22, 1.5h
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Day 6: Swanson Farm Visit and Inverness

Beauly & Inverness, Scotland on September 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your included breakfast at The Grassmarket Hotel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Day Trip to Swanson Farm, Beauly

Visit this working farm for an authentic look at farm life and local produce; perfect for nature and food lovers.
Free entry; self-guided, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Red Poppy Restaurant, Beauly

Enjoy freshly prepared, affordable meals featuring local ingredients at this quaint spot near the farm.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Inverness and Visit Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Learn about Highland history, culture and art including Loch Ness lore.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Leisure time in Inverness

Explore local shops and streets or relax in one of the cafes.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Charming bistro with reasonably priced meals using local produce, great for a relaxed evening.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 7: Travel back to Edinburgh

Inverness to Edinburgh, Scotland on September 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the included breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train to Edinburgh (approx 3.5 hours)

Travel back to Edinburgh by train with comfortable seating and scenic views.
GBP35 per person, 3.5h

12:00pm

Check-in at Motel One Edinburgh-Royal – Breakfast Included

Enjoy modern, budget-friendly accommodation in central Edinburgh with breakfast included.
GBP75, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Argo Scottish Bistro

Affordable and authentic Scottish bistro serving traditional dishes with good value.
GBP20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit National Museum of Scotland

Rich displays on Scottish heritage, natural history and technology; free entry, open until 5 pm.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ting Thai Caravan

Popular, budget-friendly Thai street food in a cozy setting close to the hotel.
GBP20, 1.5h
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Day 8: Bookstores and Markets

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Motel One

Fuel up with the included breakfast buffet.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Second visit to Book Lovers Bookshop or alternative local bookstore

For any missed finds or new releases, revisit or explore another charming bookshop.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Walk through Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (if weekend)

Taste local specialties and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere; an excellent place for snacks or souvenirs.
Free entry, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mosque Kitchen

Highly affordable and delicious Pakistani food near the city center.
GBP10, 1h

2:00pm

Leisure time or optional visit to Edinburgh Castle (if not visited earlier)

Optional - entrance fee applies; a must-see for first time visitors.
GBP20, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mamma's American Pizza

Casual and budget-friendly American-style pizzas in the heart of Edinburgh.
GBP18, 1.5h
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Day 9: More Edinburgh & Islander Workshop

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Motel One

Included hearty breakfast to start your day.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Return visit or extended Islander Workshop Experience

Participate again or explore extended activities related to Scottish islands culture, check availability.
GBP40 per person, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Baked Potato Shop

Simple, budget-friendly, and filling meal specializing in jacket potatoes with a variety of toppings.
GBP12, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll in the Botanical Gardens

Relax in these beautiful gardens; free entry and perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Outsider Restaurant

Modern Scottish dishes in a casual setting with reasonable prices for quality food.
GBP26, 1.5h
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Day 10: Cultural Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Motel One

Included breakfast buffet to energize for the day.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Scottish National Gallery

Discover Scotland’s premier art collection, including masterpieces of European art; free entry.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The City Café

Classic café offering hearty Scottish meals and breakfast options at budget prices.
GBP15, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through New Town

Enjoy elegant Georgian architecture, shops, and cafes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site area.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ting Thai Caravan (repeat for favorites)

Affordable and tasty Thai dishes, ideal for casual dining.
GBP20, 1.5h
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Day 11: Free Day or Extra Activities

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Motel One

Included breakfast to prepare for your day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Optional: Day Trip to Rosslyn Chapel or Local Museums

Visit this historic chapel outside Edinburgh or explore other local museum gems for a cultural experience.
GBP10-20 depending on site, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at City Café

A reliable and budget-friendly spot offering Scottish and classic European fare.
GBP15, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at a local café or park

Take time to reflect and relax in Edinburgh’s many green spaces or urban cafes.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Holyrood 9A

Known for good pub food and craft beers at reasonable prices in a lively atmosphere.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 12: Departure Day

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Motel One

Enjoy your included breakfast one last time in Edinburgh.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Prepare for departure

Pack up and take transport to your onward destination or airport, ending your Scottish adventure.
Transport costs vary, Varies
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