Scotland, Planned for You
Not sure where to start with Scotland? We've been there β literally. Grab our 7 day itinerary and steal every stop, tip, and hidden gem we discovered along the way.
St. Andrews: The Most Magical Day Trip from Edinburgh π΄σ §σ ’σ ³σ £σ ΄σ Ώ
Just an hour from Edinburgh lies one of Scotland's most unexpectedly breathtaking destinations. We're talking clifftop castle ruins, a medieval cathedral so stunning it stopped us in our tracks, a walk along the North Sea shoreline, and yes β golf at the most famous course in the world. St. Andrews absolutely blew us away, and we have a feeling it'll do the same to you.
A Spa Day Inside a Castle: Our Dalhousie Castle Experience
We traded the city bustle of Edinburgh for an afternoon of castle luxury at Dalhousie Castle & Spa β and while it wasn't without its quirks, the experience was every bit as unique as we'd hoped. From soaking in a hydro therapy pool and drifting through hidden castle passageways to a light relaxing massage and afternoon tea in a centuries-old tea room, it made for a genuinely magical (if imperfect) afternoon. Throw in a falconry on the grounds and an owl encounter we'll never forget, and Dalhousie Castle earns its spot as one of Edinburgh's most one-of-a-kind day trip experiences.
The Real Mary King's Close: Edinburgh's Most Unexpected Obsession
My favorite tour in all of Edinburgh wasn't a castle or a palace β it was an hour spent underground, in the dark, hearing stories about real people who called these buried closes home 400 years ago. The Real Mary King's Close is equal parts eerie, entertaining, and completely unforgettable, with costumed character guides who bring the history of Edinburgh's Old Town to life in the most unexpected way. Trust me, book it before you go β this one sells out fast.
Touring the Palace of Holyroodhouse: The King's Edinburgh Residence
Touring the Palace of Holyroodhouse means grand royal apartments, 900-year-old abbey ruins, and a 16th-century murder scene with bloodstains still on the floor⦠so yeah, it's a lot more interesting than your average palace visit. It's one of those Edinburgh stops that earns its place on the itinerary without question. Highly recommend, and bring a rain jacket.
Edinburgh Castle: Come for the Views, Stay for the Stories (and the Scones)
Edinburgh Castle is one of those places that earns every bit of its reputation - and then some. From the jaw-dropping city views and wild history to a cozy afternoon tea, our morning there was one of the best of the entire trip. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit!
Dean Village & The Water of Leith: Edinburgh's Most Magical First Evening Walk
I had been on a plane from Southern California for what felt like exactly 1 million hours. Tired, jet-lagged, and ready to be anywhere that wasn't an airport β and yet, just 10 minutes after dropping our bags in Edinburgh, we walked out the door. That decision ended up being one of the best of the entire trip. Because around the corner was Dean Village, and I was absolutely not prepared for what I was about to see.
Don't Skip the Writers Museum in Edinburgh (Especially If You're Already at the Castle)
A 17th century townhouse, a security staircase, and a typewriter packed for a honeymoon β the Edinburgh Writers Museum is small, free, and absolutely worth 45 minutes of your day.