5 days in central Scotland
Introduction
Hit cultural hotspots and explore a spectacular national park on an adventure around central Scotland. Start in colourful capital Edinburgh, where the atmosphere is especially electric around its summer and new year’s festivities. Embrace Glasgow’s artistic side at an exhibition, or on its graffiti-decorated streets, shopping the work of local creatives in the indie shops and studios of the Hidden Lane. For a change of pace from these busy cities, head out to the serene Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, a rugged natural paradise with munros, woodlands and water to explore.
Here’s our pick of the top things to see and do over five days in central Scotland:
Days 1-2 - Edinburgh
Days 1-2 - Edinburgh
There aren’t many places that boast as much culture as Edinburgh. Home to castles and palaces, epic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances and the world-famous Fringe Festival every summer, it’s a city like no other. Go pub hopping on quirky Rose Street, check out contemporary sculptures in Jupiter Artland and climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat for the best views of the city. Edinburgh truly has it all.
Things to do in Edinburgh
Getting to Edinburgh
Edinburgh Airport is a global travel hub that can be reached by destinations around the globe. The airport is connected to the city centre by fast and easy public transport — choose between tram or bus.
If travelling from London, you can take a train from Kings Cross station to Edinburgh in under five hours. Services are operated by ScotRail and LNER.
While you're here...
Day 3 - Glasgow
Day 3 - Glasgow
Glasgow’s creativity sets it apart; from its excellent galleries and exhibitions to the colourful murals that line the city streets, plus iconic music venues like the legendary King Tut’s and Barrowland. It’s a prime spot for foodies too, who’ll be spoilt for choice between sustainable vegan eateries, street food markets and Scottish classics – ever heard of haggis, neeps or tatties? Discover the best things to do in Glasgow.
Things to do in Glasgow
Getting to Glasgow from Edinburgh
Trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow run several times an hour, and take roughly one hour and 10 minutes. Alternatively, buses from Edinburgh to Glasgow take roughly an hour and a half.
While you're here...
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Days 4-5 - Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Days 4-5 - Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Though close in distance, the incredible scenery and rugged nature of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs couldn’t be further from busy Glasgow. Try your hand (and your legs!) at ‘munro bagging’ – that’s mountain climbing to non-Scots, as The Trossachs is home to 21 mountains with summits over 3,000 feet high. Explore the vast shores of Loch Lomond on cycle or foot, or hit the water and give kayaking, paddleboarding or wakeboarding a try.
Things to do in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Getting to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs from Glasgow
Loch Lomond is surrounded by three train stations - Balloch, Arrochar and Tarbet, and Ardlui - all with direct connections to Glasgow. The fastest journey is the train from Glasgow to Balloch, which takes around 45 minutes.
There are several options for travelling around The Trossachs National Park by public transport. Just check out local train and bus schedules.
