8 day itinerary for Ecosse

Itinerary

Exploring Scotland (or "Ecosse" as the locals say) without a car is totally doable and can be a delightful adventure. Scotland has a fantastic public transport system, and many of its cities and attractions are easily accessible by train, bus, or even on foot. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary for you:

## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh, the capital city. Check into your accommodation and freshen up.

Afternoon: Start your adventure with a stroll down the Royal Mile. Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle and soak in the stunning views of the city.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Scottish pub. Try haggis if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 2: Edinburgh Exploration

Morning: Head to Arthur’s Seat for a morning hike. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of the city are worth it!

Afternoon: Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful gardens!

Evening: Explore the vibrant Grassmarket area for dinner and perhaps catch some live music at a local venue.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Glasgow

Morning: Take a train to Glasgow (about an hour). Start your day at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is free to enter!

Afternoon: Stroll through the West End, visit the University of Glasgow, and grab lunch at one of the charming cafes.

Evening: Head to the Merchant City for dinner and enjoy the lively atmosphere. If you’re up for it, check out a show at the Theatre Royal or the King’s Theatre.

## Day 4: Loch Ness and the Highlands

Morning: Take a bus or train to Inverness (around 3.5 hours). Once there, you can join a guided tour to Loch Ness.

Afternoon: Explore the stunning scenery around Loch Ness, and keep an eye out for Nessie! Visit Urquhart Castle for some history and breathtaking views.

Evening: Return to Inverness for dinner. Try some local seafood or a hearty Scottish stew.

## Day 5: Isle of Skye Adventure

Morning: Take a bus from Inverness to Portree on the Isle of Skye (around 5 hours). The journey is scenic, so have your camera ready!

Afternoon: Once in Portree, explore the charming town and grab lunch. You can also take a short hike to the Old Man of Storr for some incredible views.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Portree, perhaps at a seafood restaurant. The fresh catch is a must-try!

## Day 6: Explore the Isle of Skye

Morning: Join a local tour or take a bus to explore the Fairy Pools and the Quiraing. The landscapes are absolutely magical!

Afternoon: Visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. The gardens are lovely for a stroll.

Evening: Return to Portree for dinner and relax. Maybe enjoy a whisky tasting at a local bar!

## Day 7: Back to Edinburgh

Morning: Take a bus back to Inverness and then a train to Edinburgh.

Afternoon: Once back in Edinburgh, visit the National Museum of Scotland. It’s a treasure trove of Scottish history and culture.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Consider trying some traditional Scottish desserts like cranachan or tablet!

## Day 8: Departure

Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a last stroll around the city. Visit Calton Hill for a final view of the skyline.

Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! An exciting 8-day itinerary in Scotland without a car. Each day is packed with culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Don’t forget to check the local transport schedules and book any tours in advance. Enjoy your Scottish adventure! 🏴‍☠️✨