Traveling through Scotland by rail lets you experience the journey as much as the destination. You move effortlessly from vibrant cities to the quiet countryside. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and watch the Highlands unfold outside your window.
If you want a quick journey by rail in Scotland, here’s a day-by-day itinerary, as well as a few suggestions to expand the trip to England, and even Ireland. So, pack light and get ready to explore Scotland by rail!
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Day 1 – Arrive in Edinburgh
Arrive in Edinburgh by plane from the U.S. This overnight flight lands early so you needed to keep moving to fight that jetlag.
This Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is a great orientation to the city. You can ride the red city route (without stops) in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The on-board commentary tells you more about the area, establishes your sense of direction, and still gives you time to explore in the afternoon. You can continue to use the hop-on hop-off feature for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
Then spend the rest of the day exploring the following Old and New Town sites.
Old Town Sites:
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the heart of the city. Stretching downhill from the castle to the palace, it links centuries of history in one unforgettable walk.
St Giles Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral, often called the “High Kirk of Edinburgh,” dates to the 12th century. It has witnessed centuries of political, religious, and cultural change. You will be mesmerized by the soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stained glass. Memorials throughout the cathedral honor people such as John Knox, a central figure of the Scottish Reformation.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Stroll through Greyfriars Kirkyard, where gravestones inspired names like Tom Riddle (the Dark Lord of Harry Potter fame). Just around the corner, colorful Victoria Street curves like a real-life Diagon Alley, lined with quirky shops perfect for browsing. Die-hard Potterheads should consider taking this Harry Potter Locations Tour.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
At the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a glimpse into royal life. Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It was amazing to walk through rooms once occupied by Mary, Queen of Scots. The surrounding parkland is peaceful and don’t miss Holyrood Abbey while you are there.
Rising just beyond the palace, Arthur’s Seat invites you to trade cobblestones for open sky. Climb this extinct volcano for some of the best panoramic views in the city.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland offers exhibits and treasures that highlight Scotland’s history, culture, science, and natural world. Here you will find everything from ancient artifacts and medieval treasures to interactive science displays and world cultures. The building is also gorgeous combining Victorian architecture with a striking modern atrium, with panoramic views of Edinburgh from its rooftop terrace. Best of all, admission is free!
New Town Sites:
Edinburgh’s New Town invites you to slow down and savor a different side of the city. Built during the Georgian era, this UNESCO-listed district feels like a breath of fresh air after the winding closes of Old Town.
Princes Street Gardens
Check out the Princes Street Gardens. Located directly in between old and new town, it is a great location to take a break.
The soaring Scott Monument is a must-see. This intricate Gothic spire honors Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers. The narrow spiral staircase will lead you to a great view. At ground level, you’ll also find tributes to Scott’s literary legacy.
Don’t miss the Floral Clock on the other side of the gardens. This gorgeous horticultural installation was created in 1903. Each year a new display is planted using an estimated 35,000 to 50,000 plants. And it actually keeps accurate time!
Carlton Hill for Sunset
Go to Calton Hill for the fabulous views and to see the monuments at the top. While located in New Town, it provides the best view of the Old Town.
Day 2 – Edinburgh Highlights
Hit it early on day two with tickets to explore Edinburgh Castle. The castle dominates the skyline and anchors the Royal Mile. Check out the Crown Jewels and enjoy the sweeping views across the city to the sea. There is so much wonderful history tied to this castle.
After the castle, wander through The Real Mary King’s Close. It reveals a hidden world frozen in time. This preserved network of underground alleyways offers a fascinating, and slightly creepy, look at life in 17th-century Edinburgh.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, & the Kelpies
Leave Edinburgh behind for the day and travel west toward Loch Lomond. On the way, stop at the magnificent Kelpies Monument which serves as a testament to the horsepower that drove the industrial development of Scotland.
Next, go to the shores of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch. The views of the surrounding mountains are fantastic. This area was once home to Scotland’s famous folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor.
Next, enter the Trossachs, which are often described as “The Highlands in Miniature.” This is where the Lowlands and the Highlands meet with steep mountains and shimmering lochs.
After a wonderful lunch in the village of Aberfoyle go to the city of Stirling to see one of the most magnificent castles in Scotland. Stirling Castle is where young Scottish royals, including Mary and her son James V, were sent to be raised away from their royal parents. Of course, Mary didn’t remain there long as she was shipped off to France at an early age.
This day trip was a fabulous way to explore the area outside the city. There are many other great day trips you can take from Edinburgh.
Day 4 – Edinburgh to Inverness
Two days in Edinburgh is not nearly enough. But if you have limited time and want to explore the Highlands of Scotland by rail, catch a train to Inverness. Arrive in the afternoon to give you time to check out a few sites.
The exterior of Inverness Castle was striking. You should also visit the Inverness Cathedral, located just across the bridge. Other must-visit places include Leakey’s Bookshop and the Victorian Market.
Day 5 – Isle of Skye Day Trip
Today take a guided excursion to the Isle of Skye. Sharp geological formations, crumbling coastlines, and wind-swept valleys make up the beautiful Isle of Skye. While you can’t possibly explore the entire island in a day, this day trip gives a taste of it.
First, stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. This 13th-century castle has survived Viking invasions, storms, and several other challenges, but it still stands tall. It is also the most photographed place in Scotland. After a quick stop here to explore the castle, cross Loch Alsh via the incredible Skye Bridge.
After a wonderful lunch in the colorful fishing village of Portree, explore the Quiraing on Skye. This outstanding geological stunner feels more like fantasy than real like.
Next visit the Old Man of Storr. No, this is not an actual old man, but is a sharp sandstone pinnacle that looks like an old man’s face. He can be seen for miles around and is a highlight of any trip to the Isle of Skye.
After a long day of exploring, return to Inverness ready to call it a day.
Day 6 – Explore the Highlands
Take a fabulous Private Highland Day Tour to visit all the sites just outside Inverness. No trip to Scotland would be complete without taking a moment to hunt for Nessie at Loch Ness. You may not find her, but you will see the stunning remains of Urquahart Castle.
If you love history, walk the Culloden Battlefield. This is the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising. They have an interactive visitors center with several artifacts from both sides of the battle.
Next, stop at Clava Cairns. This is a Bronze Age cemetery complex with passage graves, cairns, and standing stones located near Culloden. No, these are not the ones Claire “stepped through” in Outlander. Those are fictional. But they are based on this site and who can help but want to recreate the moment!
Exploring the Highlands surrounding Inverness was the perfect way to spend the day.
Day 7 – Continue Your Journey
If you have more time, extend this fabulous tour of Scotland by rail to Glasgow and even further afield. In a perfect world, add at least one more day in each major city. A few more days on the Isle of Skye would also be fabulous, as would a couple of days in Aberdeen.
Adventures to Connect to Your Scotland by Rail Journey
It is really easy to add to destinations at both the beginning and end of your Scotland by rail journey. A great pre-trip would be to fly into London to check out the sites and then take the train to Edinburgh. You could also add any area of Scotland as a pre- post- or mid-trip adventure! Here are some great post-trip ideas:
Inverness to Glasgow
Return south by rail and enjoy a relaxed evening in Glasgow. The next day, explore museums, architecture, and the city’s vibrant music scene.
Glasgow to Belfast for a Rail Journey Through Ireland
You can fly back to the states from Glasgow, Scotland, or you can continue your rail journey by hopping a ferry to Belfast in Northern Ireland. From there, the entire island of Ireland is just a train ride away!
How to Plan Your Own Scotland by Rail Journey
You can plan your trip the hard way and try to connect all the rail timetables, tour schedules, and hotels yourself. Or you can schedule an appointment with me and I will take care of it for you. I have sent dozens of clients through England, Scotland, and Ireland by rail. So let me make planning your journey easy so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Are you ready for your Scotland rail journey?
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