12 Fantastic Day Trips from Edinburgh Without a Car

Edinburgh is a brilliant city to visit, and I recommend you spend at least two to three days there. But, if you have more time available, there are plenty of places within an hour or two of Scotland’s capital that offer terrific day trip experiences.

Those put off by driving on the other side of the road or not having the budget to hire a car will be glad to know that Scotland’s public transport network is excellent. It makes venturing beyond “Auld Reekie” simple, affordable, and largely stress-free. Indeed, its reliable trains and buses connect you to historic towns, beautiful coastal areas, and some of the most scenic countryside you could ever hope to see.

In fact, all you need to do is decide where you want to go and how you want to get there, which is exactly why I have created this post.

Over the last four years living in the city, I’ve made it my mission to explore as much of the surrounding area as possible, specifically by train and bus. So, if you are looking for inspiration for the best day trips from Edinburgh without a car, I suggest you read until the end. 

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6 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train

Many of the best day trips from Edinburgh by train are made possible by ScotRail. This is Scotland’s primary rail network, and it offers frequent services to towns, cities, and coastal gems across the country.

Overall, you should find the trains to be clean, comfortable, and largely run to schedule. Edinburgh Waverley Station is the main railway hub. As it is located right in the city centre, it is easy to get to by bus or taxi.

Depending on where you are heading, trains can be a bit on the pricey side. For this reason, I recommend you book tickets in advance and opt for off-peak return fares where possible. This will provide you with the best value for money.

Whenever you want to take a train journey, you should always check the latest timetables on the ScotRail website or app before you set off.

Perhaps most importantly, if you have time on your side, I would urge you to take slower scenic routes that showcase endless miles of rolling hills, lochs, and coastline that you might otherwise miss. On some routes, the transit journey actually feels like a sightseeing tour in itself.

Glasgow by Train: Scotland’s Cultural Powerhouse

A day trip to Glasgow by train is one of the most popular and easiest journeys you can make. The great thing about this route is that trains leave from Edinburgh Waverley every 15 minutes or so, which means you don’t have to rush to do it.

Overall, the journey takes just under 50 minutes and delivers you straight into the heart of Scotland’s largest city. If you are a first-time visitor, I suggest you start your day at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. There you can explore everything from Old Masters to Scottish history.

After that, head to the Riverside Museum. It will give you a fascinating look at transport in the city throughout the ages. Even if that doesn’t sound too exciting, the striking architecture alone is worth the visit. Make sure you wrap up your visit with a stroll through the Merchant City. It is home to several stylish shops, cafes, and vibrant street art, which should hold your attention for a couple of hours.

If you’ve been to Glasgow before and seen these attractions, why not take a walking tour of the city’s murals or head to the local neighbourhood of Finnieston? There you can enjoy some great food and live music.

TIP: Glasgow can look a bit overwhelming at first, but a walking tour turns it into a welcoming open book full of music, murals, and hidden corners. Trust me, it’s worth booking — you’ll see the city differently.

North Berwick by Train: Beaches, Seabirds, and Coastal Charm

A day trip to North Berwick by train provides the opportunity to swap Edinburgh’s city streets for fresh sea air.

Again, trains leave regularly from Edinburgh Waverley, and in just 35 minutes you’ll be stepping onto the platform of this charming seaside town. The station is only a short walk from the beach. So you can start your visit with a stroll along its golden sands and breathe in its salty breeze.

If you are a fan of nature, you should make a beeline for the Scottish Seabird Centre. It presents a series of interactive exhibits that showcase the wonderful wildlife of the Firth of Forth. From there, you can also join a boat trip to Bass Rock, which is home to one of the world’s largest gannet colonies. Take it from me, this is an unforgettable sight in summer. 

It is also worth exploring the dramatic ruins of Tantallon Castle, as it is perched on a cliff and conveys sweeping views of the coast. You should also round off your day with fish and chips by the harbour or a wander along the shops on the High Street. 

TIP: See even more of East Lothian’s beauty on a full-day trip — from storybook castles and walled gardens to a seaside lunch in North Berwick and the birthplace of the Scottish flag. Book now for a day packed with history and coast.

Stirling by Train: Castles and History on Your Doorstep

A day trip to Stirling by train is both easy and rewarding! In just 50 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley, you’ll arrive at Stirling’s compact city centre. There you will find centuries of Scottish heritage within easy walking distance.

Your first stop should be Stirling Castle, which is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s most important historic sites. Sitting on a volcanic rock, it comprises grand halls, royal apartments, and expansive views of the surrounding countryside. After checking that out, you can also wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, which has several quaint shops and notable historic buildings.

Another landmark you must visit is the Wallace Monument. This striking tower honors William Wallace (yes, him depicted in the Mel Gibson movie Braveheart). It can easily be reached by a short bus or taxi ride and offers superb panoramic views from the top. (Shouting “Freeeeeeedom” is optional!) 

If you get hungry, there are several cosy cafes or traditional pubs where you can dine in the city centre. Many of which serve up a mean haggis, neeps and tatties, or Cullen skink.

You’ll no doubt eat well – the portion sizes can be big! So, if you fancy walking it off, embark on a gentle walk along the River Forth. The scenery is quite beautiful.

TIP: See even more in one day with a guided tour that pairs Stirling’s castle and history with the majestic Kelpies and the natural beauty of Loch Lomond — three unforgettable Scottish experiences rolled into one trip.

Dunkeld and Birnam by Train: A Highland Gateway

A day trip to Dunkeld and Birnam by train is a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of the Scottish Highlands without venturing too far from Edinburgh.

Usually, it will take you about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get from Edinburgh Waverley to Birnam, typically with a change in Perth. Once you arrive at the station, it’s just a short walk over the River Tay into Dunkeld’s lovely centre.

I would recommend starting with a visit to Dunkeld Cathedral, which is a beautiful, yet haunting riverside ruin and part-functioning church, that is steeped in history. Then, follow the riverside path to the Hermitage. This stunning woodland walk features towering Douglas firs and the roaring Black Linn Falls, which are particularly breathtaking in autumn when the leaves turn golden.

Back in Birnam, seek out the Birnam Oak, an ancient tree that is linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Its twisted branches are symbolic of the area’s deep-rooted history.

TIP: Enhance your Dunkeld visit with a guided Highlands day trip that weaves together Stirling’s history, a scenic stop at Loch Earn, an optional whisky distillery tour, and the charm of Dunkeld itself — all in one unforgettable journey.

Dunbar by Train: Clifftop Walks and Coastal Wildlife

A day trip to Dunbar by train is a refreshing way to experience Scotland’s rugged coastline just 25 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley. Trains run frequently, making it one of the quickest escapes from the capital. Once you step off the platform, you’re already within walking distance of the town centre and its dramatic seafront.

Start your visit with a wander around Dunbar Harbour, where colourful boats bob against the backdrop of the ruined Dunbar Castle. Then, set out along the John Muir Way, which celebrates the legacy of the conservationist born here. The clifftop path offers jaw-dropping views of the North Sea, with seabirds swooping overhead and, if you’re lucky, the occasional seal basking below.

For those interested in wildlife, the Dunbar Battery is a must-see with its sculptures and interpretation boards that bring the area’s history and ecology to life. If you need a break, grab a bite at one of the local cafes or tuck into traditional fish and chips while watching the waves roll in. By the end of the day, you’ll understand why this little town is one of East Lothian’s best-kept coastal treasures.

Dundee by Train: Design, Discovery, and Riverside Views

A day trip to Dundee by train is a rewarding option if you want to mix Scottish history with cutting-edge culture. Trains leave Edinburgh Waverley regularly, and the journey takes just over an hour, delivering you straight to the city’s revitalised waterfront.

Your first stop should be the V&A Dundee. This striking building, designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is Scotland’s first design museum and makes a statement both inside and out. Alongside exhibitions on design, fashion, and innovation, the building itself is worth lingering over. Right next door, you’ll find Discovery Point, home to Captain Scott’s RRS Discovery. The ship and museum tell the story of polar exploration and give a fascinating look into Dundee’s maritime past.

From there, a stroll along the waterfront or into the compact city centre will reveal independent shops, colourful street art, and plenty of cafes for lunch. If you have time, head up to Dundee Law, the city’s extinct volcano. It takes a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views across the River Tay and over to Fife are worth the effort. By the end of the day, you’ll see why Dundee has transformed itself into one of Scotland’s most interesting cities to visit.

TIP: Go beyond the usual sights with a self-guided audio tour of Dundee — download to your phone, explore at your own pace, and get under the skin of a city full of stories.

6 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh by Bus

While it’s fun to take the train, some of the best day trips from Edinburgh by bus take you to places they can’t easily reach. These include charming villages and remote coastal spots that many tourists miss.

Generally speaking, Scotland’s bus network is extensive and reliable, with services running year-round, whatever the weather. Stagecoach connects Edinburgh to towns and attractions across Fife, the Borders, and beyond, while Lothian Buses and Lothian Country serve nearby areas to Edinburgh at very reasonable fares.

You should find buses to be comfortable, and many routes can be quite scenic, which gives you a front-row seat to rolling countryside or dramatic coastal landscapes. When taking a bus, you can buy single or return tickets directly from the driver or use contactless payment.

Again, before you travel, make sure you check timetables on the operator’s website or app, so you can plan your day to make the most of your time.

St Andrews by Bus: Golf, Academia, and Seaside Strolls

A day trip to St Andrews by bus is a great way to visit one of Scotland’s most famous towns. Stagecoach runs regular services from Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square bus station. Usually, the journey takes around two hours via the Forth Road Bridge and the charming countryside of Fife. Most buses will drop you close to the town center, from where you can start exploring on foot right away.

Known as the “Home of Golf,” St Andrews is world-renowned for the Old Course, which was established in 1843. Even if you are not a fan of the sport, I recommend coming here because you can stroll past the iconic Swilcan Bridge, which is an Instagrammable photo worth taking.

The town is also home to Scotland’s oldest university, founded in 1413. Its historic buildings give the streets a distinguished character. I also recommend checking out the atmospheric ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and heading to West Sands Beach, which famously featured in the classic movie Chariots of Fire. (Again, running on it is optional!).

TIP: Discover the best of St Andrews with a guided tour that makes it easy to take in the coastal walk, the atmospheric cathedral ruins, and the town’s timeless charm — all without the hassle of planning it yourself.

Rosslyn Chapel by Bus: A Journey into Scotland’s Mystique

If the thought of blending mystery, history, and natural beauty sounds like your idea of a good time, then a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel by bus should appeal.

Just 45 minutes from Edinburgh, the Lothian Buses service 37 runs regularly from the city centre to the village of Roslin. It will drop you within a short walk of the chapel, which is famed for its intricate stone carvings, striking Gothic architecture, and the many legends that surround it. This includes everything from connections to the Knights Templar to its starring role in The Da Vinci Code.

As every column and arch is adorned with fascinating detail, you could easily spend a good few hours here. However, after exploring the chapel, consider taking a walk through Roslin Glen. This wooded valley is rich with wildlife and scattered with historic ruins, which you should find quite compelling to explore.

It would be remiss of me not to advise you that the chapel is open year-round but requires you to pay an admission fee. Therefore, it’s best to check the official website for opening hours and ticket availability before you head there.

TIP: Make your visit to Rosslyn Chapel even more memorable with a small-group tour that also takes you through the Borders to Melrose Abbey — where tales of monks, Templars, and Scottish kings bring history and legend vividly to life.

Anstruther & Pittenweem by Bus: Fishing Heritage and Fresh Seafood

Scotland has a number of fabulous fishing villages dotted along its coastline. A day trip to Anstruther and Pittenweem takes you to two of the prettiest of them.

Both are located in Fife’s East Neuk and are a bit of a trek to get to. From Edinburgh, you’ll first need to travel by train to Leuchars (around 1 hour), then connect with a local bus for the scenic ride to Anstruther. The full journey takes about 2.5 hours, but the coastal views make it well worth it.

I suggest starting in Anstruther, where colourful boats bob in the harbour and the smell of fresh seafood drifts from the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar. (A must for lunch). Then take the time to wander the waterfront, browse small shops, or alternatively, visit the Scottish Fisheries Museum to learn about the area’s maritime heritage.

From here, it’s an easy 20-minute walk along the Fife Coastal Path to Pittenweem. This charming village is known for its whitewashed cottages, art galleries, and winding lanes that lead to the harbor, which you will instantly fall in love with. 

TIP: Make visiting Anstruther and Pittenweem effortless with a guided tour that also includes time in St Andrews — three charming coastal highlights, no transport planning needed.

Culross by Bus: Step Back in Time in Scotland’s Best-Preserved Town

If you love the TV series Outlander, then you’ll feel like you have stumbled onto the set of it when you take a day trip to Culross.

Culross Palace, with its distinctive mustard-yellow walls and historic gardens, is a particular highlight. The village is famous as a filming location for the TV series, so fans will enjoy spotting familiar backdrops.

A leisurely stroll through its narrow lanes will reveal hidden courtyards, a photogenic pier, and peaceful views over the Firth of Forth. To get to it, you’ll need to take a train from Edinburgh to Dunfermline Town (about 35 minutes) and then a local bus to Culross. The whole journey should take around 1.5 hours, and the bus will drop you close to the village square.

TIP: Step into the world of Outlander with a guided tour that goes far beyond Culross, taking you to Castle Leoch, Jamie’s home at Midhope, Blackness Castle, and Linlithgow — all the iconic filming locations brought together in one unforgettable day.

Aberlady by Bus: A Nature Reserve and Village Escape

A day trip to Aberlady by bus is ideal if you want a slower, more nature-filled escape. Lothian Buses service 124 runs regularly from Edinburgh city centre, and in under an hour you’ll arrive at this peaceful East Lothian village.

Aberlady is most famous for its nature reserve, the first Local Nature Reserve designated in Britain. A gentle walk takes you across wooden boardwalks and grassy dunes, opening onto wide beaches where you’ll often spot wading birds, geese, and other coastal wildlife. The setting is tranquil, and in the late afternoon light, the estuary feels almost magical.

After your walk, you can spend time in the village itself. It has a handful of traditional pubs and cosy spots to rest, making it easy to enjoy a hearty meal before heading back to the city. Aberlady may not be as busy as other coastal destinations, but that’s part of its charm — it offers a quiet slice of Scottish seaside life, perfect for those wanting a simple day out in nature.

Preston Mill by Bus: A Storybook Watermill and Rural Charm

A day trip to Preston Mill by bus feels like stepping into a painting. From Edinburgh, take the East Coast Buses service 124 to East Linton (about 1 hour 15 minutes), then enjoy a short countryside walk to the site.

The main attraction here is Preston Mill, a picturesque 18th-century watermill managed by the National Trust for Scotland. With its red pantile roof and curious conical kiln, it looks almost like something from a fairytale. Fans of the TV series Outlander may recognise it, as the mill featured in several scenes. Guided tours explain its fascinating history and demonstrate how grain was once milled.

Beyond the mill itself, the surrounding River Tyne and fields make for a peaceful wander. It’s a place where you can easily slow down and enjoy the quiet rhythm of rural East Lothian. Once you’ve had your fill of history and scenery, head back to East Linton village for a pub lunch or a coffee before catching the bus back to Edinburgh. It’s a simple but memorable outing, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of heritage and countryside charm.