Get ready for a week of Scottish shenanigans. In just 7 days, you’ll hit all the highlights of this bonnie land. From the historic charm of Edinburgh to the cool vibes of Glasgow and the breathtaking beauty of Inverness and Oban, this itinerary has got you covered.
You’ll be soaking up stunning landscapes, diving into rich history, and getting a taste of that vibrant Scottish culture. So, pack your bags, put on your best kilt (or just your comfiest shoes), and prepare for an epic adventure. Scotland’s calling, and it’s going to be a blast!
Image Credit: Getty Images, naumoid. Image Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 1-2: Edinburgh, the historic capital
Day 1: Arrival and Royal Mile
- Roll into Edinburgh’s Waverley Station and check into your hotel. Hint: Stay near the Royal Mile for easy access to all the main attractions.
- Spend your afternoon wandering down the Royal Mile, checking out St. Giles’ Cathedral and exploring quirky little alleys off the main street.
- Don’t miss Edinburgh Castle for epic views and a crash course in Scottish history.
- End the day with a traditional Scottish dinner — give haggis, neeps, and tatties a go, and then wash them down with some local whisky.
Day 2: Arthur’s Seat and Old Town
- Kickstart your day with a hike up Arthur’s Seat — an ancient volcano with killer views of the city.
- Then, head to the Palace of Holyroodhouse — the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
- Next, hit up the National Museum of Scotland. Pro tip: the rooftop terrace has more great views.
- As night falls, dive into Edinburgh’s spooky past with a ghost tour in the Old Town. It’s the perfect way to end the day!
Train from Edinburgh to Inverness
Hop on a scenic train ride from Edinburgh to Inverness (from 3h 18m). Trains run often, so book a time that works for you.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Massimiliano Broggi. Image Location: Urquhart Castle ruins, Scotland
Day 3-4: Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands
Day 3: Arrival and Loch Ness
- Arrive in Inverness and check into your hotel. Hint: Stay near the River Ness for those picture-perfect views and easy access to all the sights.
- Head out to Loch Ness — who knows, you might even spot Nessie! Then, check out Urquhart Castle on the shores of the loch.
- Then, take a chill cruise on Loch Ness. Even if Nessie doesn’t show, the views are totally worth it.
- Wrap up with dinner in Inverness — fresh seafood or traditional Scottish fare, your call.
Day 4: Highland adventure
- Start your day at Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last Jacobite Rising battle.
- Next, explore Clava Cairns — a prehistoric burial site with cool standing stones and cairns.
- Spend the afternoon driving along the North Coast 500 route for some breathtaking Highland scenery — and don’t forget to stop by the Glenmorangie distillery for a whisky tasting.
- Head back to Inverness for dinner and a relaxing stroll along the River Ness.
Read also: Ride the Hogwarts Express in the Scottish Highlands and explore other Harry Potter locations in the UK
Train from Inverness to Glasgow
Catch an evening train from Inverness to Glasgow (from 3h 15m). Enjoy the scenic ride through the Highlands.
Image Credit: Getty Images, benedek. Image Location: Buchanan Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Day 5-6: Glasgow, the cultural hub
Day 5: Arrival and city highlights
- Arrive in Glasgow and check into your hotel. Hint: Stay near George Square for easy access to everything.
- Spend the afternoon at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
- Take a stroll around the University of Glasgow and visit the Hunterian Museum.
- For dinner, hit up a local pub and try some hearty Scottish dishes like Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup) or a Glasgow curry.
Day 6: Architecture and music
- Start your day with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral and the nearby Necropolis for a bit of Gothic history.
- Then, head to the Glasgow Science Centre and take a walk along the River Clyde.
- In the afternoon, explore the Riverside Museum, showcasing Glasgow’s transport history.
- Spend your evening in the West End, known for its vibrant nightlife and live music scene. Check out a gig at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut or a traditional music session at a local pub.
Train from Glasgow to Oban
Take a morning train from Glasgow to Oban (from 3h). The route is very scenic, so keep your camera ready.
Image Credit: Getty Images, ewg3D. Image Location: Oban, Scotland
Day 7: Oban, the gateway to the Isles
Day 7: Arrival and island adventure
- Arrive in Oban and check into your hotel. This charming seaside town is known as the “Gateway to the Isles”.
- Hop on a ferry to the Isle of Mull and enjoy spectacular views of the Hebrides.
- Explore the picturesque town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, famous for its colorful waterfront buildings.
- Head back to Oban for dinner and don’t miss trying some fresh seafood — Oban is famous for it!
Departure
Spend your final morning in Oban visiting McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views of the town and the islands. Then, head back to Glasgow or Edinburgh for your departure. Pro tip: take the West Highland Line back to enjoy more of Scotland’s stunning landscapes.
Scotland 7-day itinerary train route map
Train route: Edinburgh → Inverness → Glasgow → Oban
This 7-day itinerary gives you a perfect mix of Scotland’s coolest cities and its outstanding natural beauty. From the historic streets of Edinburgh to the wild Highlands and the vibrant buzz of Glasgow, you’re in for a week packed with unforgettable memories! Download the Trainline app today and start booking.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Dufrenoy. Image Location: Sligachan, Ile of Skye, United Kingdom
