If you only have three days to spend in Scotland, it’s possible to cover a lot of ground! Edinburgh is where you’ll want to set up your “home base” and then you can take day trips. The highlands and Glasgow call your name! Here is an ultimate itinerary to spending 3 days in Scotland!
Day 1: Edinburgh Highlights
Your first of 3 days in Scotland is going to be spent putting down roots in Edinburgh and exploring the highlights! Edinburgh is a vibrant city that you could spend several days in, but with a little planning, it’s possible to hit a lot of the top attractions in a short period of time. Tiugainn!
Early morning photos at The Vennel
Before anything else, let’s get those iconic photo spots checked off your list! Get out the door early and head straight to The Vennel to beat the crowds. The Vennel is the name of a staircase in the city that offers iconic views of the Edinburgh Castle. If you’ve seen photos of Edinburgh, you’ve seen this shot. Try your best to arrive early in the morning (just after sunrise) to get shots without people in them. Climb about 2/3 of the way up the staircase and turn around for the million dollar view. Here, there will be a ledge that is perfect for propping your phone or camera on to get the best angle and view. Use your wide angle to capture the staircase, buildings, and castle in one shot!
Breakfast at Castlegate Cafe
Once you’ve snapped your iconic pictures, make your way down the Vennel steps, turn right, and stop for a coffee and breakfast at Castlegate Cafe. This small little cafe is a perfect landing spot to fuel up for your day and relax. The menu consists of typical UK dishes, as well as comfort foods. I opted for the pancakes topped with Nutella and bananas (because I’m a classic American). They were delicious! This American also loved being able to get an iced mocha to drink. Iced coffee drinks are hard to find in Europe so this was a pleasant surprise!
Edinburgh Castle
Next up, a visit to the famous Edinburgh Castle! The castle opens each morning at 9:30 am, and I’d recommend being one of the first ones through the gate to avoid as many crowds as possible. You’ll also need to book your tickets ahead of time and can do so by clicking here. The castle has a lot to explore, both inside and out. I’d plan for spending around 1.5-2 hours here (depending on how fast you go, of course). I personally loved walking around the outside wall, getting 360 degree views over the city of Edinburgh. The prison cells and ballroom inside of the castle were also favorites of mine!
Stroll the Royal Mile
After your visit to the castle, it’s time to make your way down Edinburgh’s most famous street: The Royal Mile! The Royal Mile is the name of the street that connects the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The walk in this direction is all downhill, so you’re in for an easy, leisurely stroll. It’s a little touristy, but hey- we’re tourists! You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops and also places to get authentic (higher quality) souvenirs to take home like whiskey, cashmere, or homemade Scottish goods! While walking the Royal Mile, be sure to make a quick detour down Cockburn Street. The curvy, Old Town street is so beautiful and a great photo op!
Palace of Holyroodhouse
At the far end of the Royal Mile, you’ll find the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Honestly, I enjoyed my time here much more than at the Edinburgh Castle. The Palace of Holyroodhouse is an active working palace, and royal business still occurs here. In fact, just a few weeks before my visit, King Charles visited Scotland for his annual visit staying and conducting business in the palace! You can buy tickets at the gate or (to be safe) online ahead of time here. There are no photos or videos allowed inside, but about half of the rooms are active and working, while the other half are historically preserved. One of the rooms is where Queen Elizabeth II actually laid in rest for a day following her passing at Balmoral. Surreal! After touring the palace, take your time strolling the gardens and the remains of the Abbey. They are well worth your time!
The Potter Trail
After a busy morning of sightseeing, book yourself a free Harry Potter walking tour through The Potter Trail. Whether you’re a fan of the series or not, this is a must-do in Edinburgh! The public walking tour is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance by clicking here. The tour will start in the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery where you’ll see gravesites that inspired J.K. Rowling naming characters! McGonagall, Moody, and most infamously- Tom Riddle! Afterwards, the tour takes to the street passing sights like the Elephant House (where J.K. Rowling famously wrote many of the early books) and even breaking out our wands and doing a little bit of magic ourselves. The tour ends on Victoria Street, which is known to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley. The tour is only about 90 minutes so it’s an easy addition to your itinerary!
Victoria Street
After your tour, spend time exploring all that the famous Victoria Street has to offer! These brightly painted buildings are a photographer’s dream and are so fun to take in. Continue with the Harry Potter theme by stopping into Museum Context. This shop sells all officially licensed gear and is really fun to experience. Of course, I had to snag a yellow and black scarf (as a proud Hufflepuff) and a few souvenirs to bring back home to fellow Potterheads. Expect a wait to get in to the store at peak times! For good views of the street, head up to the Victoria Terrace (accessed by a hidden staircase, located here). You can avoid the crowds a bit and look over the bustling street below!
Dinner at Oink
Located right on Victoria Street, treat yourself to a pulled pork sandwich at Oink! I’ve had my fair share of pulled pork sandwiches in my life, but these rank right up there with some of the best. You choose your size (piglet, oink, or grunter), stuffing, and sauce. I played it safe with no stuffing (I’m not brave enough to try haggis, though people swear it’s not as bad as it sounds) and classic homemade bbq sauce. It didn’t disappoint! It was a nice casual bite to eat as you continue strolling down the colorful Victoria Street!
Sunset on Calton Hill
No better way to end your first of 3 days in Scotland than to catch the sunset atop Calton Hill. The steps to the top of the hill are located here. It’s a short but steep climb to the top (your girl had to take 5 at the top just to get her thighs to stop throbbing), but you’ll be rewarded with the best views of the city! Stroll over near the Dugald Stewart Monument for views of the Old Town, the Scot Monument, Waverly clock tower, and even the Edinburgh Castle in the distance. Make your way to the opposite side of the hill to the North Viewpoint, where people will sit on the hill and watch the sun set over the city. The vibes were 10/10 and it was the absolute perfect way to end the busy day!
Read More: How to Spend 2 Days in Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 2: Escape to the Highlands
On your second of 3 days in Scotland, it’s time to get out of the city and explore the famous Scottish Highlands! To get to the highlands, you can rent a car and make several hour round-trip drive, but I would recommend booking a tour instead. I booked with Discover Scotland Tours and did their Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel day trip. It was a long 12-hour day, but jam packed with adventure and spectacular sights. It was great to have someone else do the driving while we could just kick back, relax, and enjoy the views!
The town of Callander
First stop out of Edinburgh is about an hour and a half northwest to the town of Callander. This little town was a perfect morning rest stop to stretch the legs before venturing into the highlands! Stroll the quiet main street admiring the shops and views of the foothills that surround you. Mhor Bread & Store is a perfect stop for a coffee and light breakfast. It’s a popular stop and the line was out the door when I visited, but it moved pretty quickly. There is also a Costa Coffee right across the street (which is a UK staple), if you’re in a pinch. I drool just thinking about their Millionaire’s Shortbread! Also in town are free public toilets, located here (which are always a nice sight to see!)
Loch Lubnaig & Loch Earn
Next up were stops at a couple of highland lochs (which is Gaelic for lakes)! Loch Libnaig was our first stop. This lake is located in Trossachs National Park, and was another great place to stop for some quick photo ops along the way. You can walk right up to the shores and be surrounded by wildflowers, mountain foothills, and the smell of the water. Loch Earn was another stop, which wasn’t far down the road. We parked here for a bit (while our driver worked out how to avoid a traffic jam ahead on our route) and walked along the far west corner of the lake. Equally stunning, but this one felt much more residential and local (which is a good thing!). There were also public toilets, located here, which we love to see!
Glencoe & Visitor’s Center
Next up was the star of the show: Glencoe! Glencoe, the heart of the Scottish Highlands and an absolutely jaw-dropping region to visit. Before we arrived to the town proper, we stopped at several scenic overlooks- each one better than the last! My personal favorite was the Three Sisters Viewpoint. This scene is iconic, and truly one of those “pinch me” moments. While we didn’t have time for the hike on our day tour, Potterheads will also be able to make a short hike to the spot where Hagrid’s hut is! The exact location of his hut is pinned here. It’s a short 5-10 minute walk from the street. The best place to park is at the Clachaig Inn (just be sure to thank them for the parking by stopping in for a pint after your hike). Once you arrive, the location is unmistakable!
Not to be missed is a stop at the Glencoe Visitor’s Centre. It’s a perfect place to get information about the highlands, but also to do a quick refresh with toilets and a café. My favorite part though was the hairy coos they had! “Hairy Coos” is the nickname for the iconic Highland Cows. These thick, long haired, horned gentle creatures are so unmistakably Scotland! They have a few roaming in a fenced pasture and you can walk up to pet or feed them. Just watch the horns!
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Our “destination” of the trip was the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was a total highlight for me! Also known as the Hogwarts Express, this is the iconic bridge that the train rolls over bringing eager witches and wizards to another school year at Hogwarts. The tour planned our arrival with enough time to watch the famous Jacobite Steam Train roll over the viaduct, but if you’re on your own, you can view the train schedule here. While this doesn’t list the exact times the train will pass over the viaduct, I’d plan to arrive at the parking lot no later than these times. Once you arrive, you will need to hike up to the viewpoints, which can take around 20-30 minutes. The viewpoint is a short but steep uphill climb, but so worth it!
Loch Shiel
Right across from the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you’ll find Loch Shiel. This is another classic highland lake, with stunning views of the mountains surrounding it. Most famously, Loch Shiel is known as Black Lake (continuing on the Harry Potter theme). When hiking to the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint, you can continue on just a little farther for viewpoints of Loch Shiel, here (a perfect vantage point to watch the Triwizard Tournament!). While us muggles cannot see Hogwarts, one would assume that it’s located right here, on the banks of Loch Shiel/the Black Lake!
Read More: A Harry Potter Fan’s Ultimate Guide to Visiting Scotland
The town of Pitlochry
The final stop of the trip was in the small town of Pitlochry. This town was so fun to stroll through and explore. One of the most famous things to do in Pitlochry is to grab a serving of whiskey ice cream from Scotch Corner. I am not a fan of whiskey so I opted against, but they also had a ton of other flavors if you need an afternoon sugar rush. Instead, I strolled down the main street bopping in and out of the small local stores. I snagged a few souvenirs made by local craftsmen and enjoyed the quaint street and slow life in Pitlochry. And by now you know I love a public restroom, and you can find them here.
Back in Edinburgh
After a long day with amazing sites (and lots of driving) we made in back into Edinburgh just before sunset. The drop of location was here, just at the base of Calton Hill. If you time it right, you could treat yourself to a spectacular sunset on the summit two nights in a row! However, I was pooped so grabbed a quick dinner at a nearby Nando’s and then went straight to bed back at the hotel. What a day!
Day 3: Edinburgh Deep Dive & Glasgow Evening
On your final of 3 days in Scotland, spend some time diving deeper into Edinburgh and taking a quick jump over to Glasgow! Another jam-packed day awaits, but there’s so much to see and do!
Coffee and Cookies at Zebra Coffee Company
Start your day strong with a visit to Zebra Coffee Company! This little coffee shop had delicious drinks and baked goods. I treated myself to a croissant and a hot mocha (complete with Instagramable latte art). There is indoor seating, and I’d recommend walking all the way through to the back room. It’s more private and decorated really cute. After breakfast, don’t forget snagging one of their famous stuffed cookies to go. The flavor list was overwhelming, but I settled on a Milky Way one. It was the absolute perfect mid-day treat later in the day!
Stroll to Circus Lane
After fueling up, make a quiet morning stroll over to the famous Circus Lane. This curvy little street is so photogenic, and one of the most famous in the city! The walk to the street is also *chef’s kiss* and gives major Upper East Side vibes. Before making your way down and strolling Circus Lane, stop here (at the end of India Street) for views of the street from above. You can then walk down a small staircase directly down to the street. Stroll down Circus Lane taking in the charm and snapping photos at every turn. Once the street starts to bend, you can also get views of the St Stephen’s Church steeple.
Stockbridge Market & Water of Leith
If you’re visiting Edinburgh on a Sunday, you’re in luck! The Stockbridge Market (located only a couple blocks from Circus Lane) is a local farmers market that is open every Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm. It’s not huge, but I love strolling local markets when I’m traveling, enjoying all the homemade goods and foods. In addition to vendor booths, they also had a few food trucks set up to grab a quick lunch or snack. Next, make your way just a couple blocks away (here) to the start of the Water of Leith walkway. Now, I’ve walked my fair share of river walks in my life, but this one absolutely takes the cake! You would never believe you’re in the middle of Scotland’s capital city. It’s so quiet and beautiful, you would swear you’re in the countryside. I actually ended up taking a seat on a bench facing the river and just enjoying the scenery for a bit. It’s a great place to just kick back and relax.
Dean Village
Stroll the Water of Leith walkway for a bit until you hit the famous Dean Village! This picturesque village is an absolute must-do. It is a beautiful little village in the city. The stream flows through the center of the town that are lined with 19th century homes and cobblestone streets. Bell’s Brae Bridge will be your first stop and offers iconic views of the village. Next, make your way down Hawthornebank Lane for more views of the town (don’t forget to look behind you!). Don’t forget to cross the bridge at the bottom of the hill for views from the other side of the river! And if you’re getting more Harry Potter vibes from Dean Village- your intuition would be correct! This little village was the inspiration for Hogsmeade!
Princes Street and Gardens
After your stroll through Dean Village, make the walk back into the heart of the city on Princes Street. Princes Street is a main thoroughfare in the city that passes beneath the Edinburgh Castle, past the Scot Monument and Waverly Station. There are shops and chain restaurants to stop at if needed, but I’d recommend instead making your way down into the Princes Street Gardens. This is by far one of the best public parks I’ve ever been in! The gardens were beautifully maintained, with all different types of flowers and trees, fountains, and statues. In my opinion, a much better walk than up on busy Princes Street!
Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia
Next, make your way out of the heart of the city and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia! The easiest way to get here is to hop on the public tram right at Princes Street, located here. Prior to boarding, purchase your round-trip ticket from the machines and board the next train heading toward Newhaven. Ride the tram to the second-to-last stop, at Ocean Terminal where the Britannia lives! Tickets and entry to the Britannia are located in Ocean Terminal, which is like a mall (strange, but go with it). Once through, you’ll be brought outside for your self-paced tour of the vessel. Don’t sleep on the free audio guides- they were fantastic! Step aboard and feel like QEII herself, touring their staterooms, sitting rooms, the deck, engine rooms, and even the bridge. Expect to spend about 2 hours here, but take in every moment!
Evening in Glasgow
Ending your 3 days in Scotland, spend the afternoon visiting the city of Glasgow. Glasgow is only a 45-minute train ride away from Edinburgh, which makes it really easy to add to an itinerary! While there isn’t as much to see and do in Glasgow compared to Edinburgh, you can definitely take in some unique sites! The Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis are a church and cemetery from the Victorian era located on a hill in the city. Spend some time exploring the architecture, sculptures, and old tombs. Nearby is the Barras Market, a world famous market place open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10-4. Another great place to snag an authentic souvenir!
Next, jump on the subway (or take a scenic walk) over the the University of Glasgow. This university is stunning, but the most famous part is the Cloisters. These fantastic stone archways are iconic, and will make you feel like you’re at Hogwarts! Nearby is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is open daily and free! Wind down with some art before making your way back to the train station.
Along your walk back, make a stop at The Hidden Lane, an adorable close that is home to colorful shops and restaurants (and easy to miss if you’re not looking for it). Just a block from the train station you will find a quirky part of Glasgow- the Duke of Wellington statue. What makes this statue quirky is that he typically has a traffic cone on his head. According to The Scotland Herald, “[f]or at least 40 years dedicated pranksters – or students coming out of Strathclyde University Union – have placed an orange road traffic cone on the Duke’s head. No one knows who the first person was to clamber up the plinth and place a cone on the Duke’s head.” This statue is also believed to have inspired Banksy!
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