Scotland is a beautiful country with vast, gorgeous landscapes and a wonderful history.
There is so much to see and do in Scotland that fitting it all into a week is difficult.
That’s why, when planning our seven-day Scotland itinerary, we chose to focus on the region that, based on our interests, gave us the biggest bang for our buck.
Our itinerary focused on opportunities to stay in a Scottish castle, visit historic abbeys and palaces, and experience Scottish history.
Join us on our journey with our Scotland Itinerary 7 Days!
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Scotland Itinerary 7 Days
Who Is This Itinerary For
My first request when planning our trip to Scotland was to stay in a castle.
Based upon this request, Marty found me a fabulous castle just south of Edinburgh, Thirlestane Castle.
We liked Thirlestane because it was a beautiful Scottish castle that offered the comforts of home while staying within our budget.
For you see, the longer you stay, the more discount you receive.
Making this our hub for the first stretch of our Scotland trip did limit our exploration of Scotland to where we could drive to and back within a day, but we were fine with that.
So, after securing our cheap rental car, we were all set for our time in Scotland!
Our focus on this trip was just to relax and take it easy!
We decided to wake up each day and determine our activities. Melville Castle is another great castle hotel near Edinburgh.
For more information, read the 10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Melville Castle Hotel.
However, after researching The Scotland Explorer Pass, we found that many of the abbeys, castles, and ruins we wanted to see were within an easy drive of our castle apartment, making Thirlestane even more appealing to us.
Now, we did venture into other regions for a couple of days, which was well worth it, but most of our trip was spent in the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh Region.
Of course, this helped us weigh Glasgow vs Edinburgh. Edinburgh worked out better for us based on the location we chose to stay.
So this itinerary is for you if you love history, want a relaxing vacation, and want to explore the border regions at your own pace.
Even if you might want to hotel hop, please read on.
During the course of this post, we are highlighting some of our favorite things to see in Scotland.
Of course, to prepare for our trip, we researched and read some of the best books about the UK.
There are really so many fabulous areas to visit in Scotland; it should be no surprise that we have them on our couple’s bucket list.
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days- Day 1: Welcome to Scotland
Blackness Castle and Sterling Castle
After landing in Edinburgh, we found our way to the rental car agency to snag our car.
Trust me, you’ll want a car if you’re planning on touring Scotland, as it is one of the most scenic road trips in Europe.
Although there is a good rail system, having the freedom of your own car is definitely worth it.
Although we landed in Edinburgh, we decided to tour Edinburgh at the end of our trip.
That way, we could turn in our rental car and explore Edinburgh on foot.
We have a separate itinerary for our 2 days in Edinburgh that you may want to check out.
I will say that this was my first time driving in Europe, so the thought of driving on the left side of the road was a little intimidating. Every time the GPS would say “at the next roundabout,” I cringed!
However, I had the hang of it after a couple of days.
I’ll have to write a separate post about my full driving experience in Scotland, especially about stopping the car in the middle of the road and sobbing.
Yes, that happened!
Anyway, don’t make your first encounter driving like mine. Instead, familiarize yourself with some tips on driving in Scotland.
Anyway……since we arrived in Edinburgh early in the morning, we decided to go explore for the day as it was too early to check into the castle, and besides, sleep is overrated.
One of the tips we give people is to try to adjust to the local time as soon as they arrive.
We find that it really helps with jet lag.
Blackness Castle
The first stop for us was Blackness Castle.
We decided to purchase the 7-day Scotland Explorer Pass, which would cover us for the entire trip, and boy, were we glad we did!
The Scotland Explorer Pass allows you free admission (and allows you to skip the line) to many of Scotland’s great castles and abbeys, including Blackness Castle.
The Explorer Pass is well worth the money if you’re a history lover.
Blackness Castle was called ‘the ship that never sailed’ due to its location and shape.
Although built for one of Scotland’s most powerful families, it was never a place of quiet refuge.
Blackness has a great history as a garrison fortress and a state prison.
Oh yeah, it was also in that little TV show, Outlander. LOL!
We loved exploring Blackness Castle. Be sure to climb the tower and the curtain wall for awesome views.
Blackness Castle has to be on your Scotland Itinerary Days!
Stirling Castle
After leaving Blackness, we made our way to Stirling Castle.
This castle is included in the Scotland Explorer Pass, so you can visit for free and skip the line!
Trust us when I tell you that Stirling Castle is a must-see on your 7-Day Scotland itinerary.
I loved driving up and seeing this beautiful medieval castle dominating the skyline on top of gorgeous Castle Hill, part of Stirling Sill’s geological formation.
Sterling Castle is a feast for the eyes. It was one of the most used castles in Scottish history as a royal residence.
Part of its history includes that Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned here in 1542.
Today, the beautiful Renaissance Palace has undergone a massive restoration, renewing the beauty and grandeur of much of the building.
It’s easy to see why this is one of the best castles in Scotland.
Note that the property is vast, so you must account for several hours if you truly want to take your time and tour the castle and grounds.
Explore Queen Anne Gardens, the Great Kitchens, The Royal Palace, and The Great Hall, to name a few places.
Standing on top of the castle walls and seeing the gorgeous countryside made me want to go and do some hiking in Scotland.
There just seemed like so much beauty to explore.
Where to Stay in Scotland
After leaving Sterling, it was time to check into our castle accommodations.
As I told you above, we chose Thirlestane Castle in Lauder, just south of Edinburgh.
As I drove into the town of Lauder, I was excited to see several restaurants, coffee shops, and a small grocery store.
This was going to be perfect for our castle stay!
Thirlestane Castle has been home to the Maitland family for over 400 years.
Upon arriving at the entrance, we drove down a little lane lined with trees before seeing beautiful farmland that housed sheep, cows, and horses appear in front of us!
We checked in at the gatehouse and then drove to the castle entrance.
My jaw dropped when I saw the castle in person. It was so cool to think we were staying here for five nights!
Our apartment consisted of a living room, a full kitchen with a washer and dryer, a nice bedroom with a window seat, and a huge bathroom with a gorgeous claw foot tub right in the middle of the room.
It was truly everything we could have wanted and then some!
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days-Day 2
Linlithgow Palace
Breakfast at The Flat Cat Gallery in Lauder
After a restful night’s sleep in our beautiful castle apartment, we walked into Lauder and enjoyed a great coffee and breakfast at The Flat Cat Gallery.
I have to tell you that this became our “go-to” morning stop in Lauder.
They have amazing lattes and a wonderful meat and cheese breakfast platter.
We also splurged on the salted caramel brownie one morning, and it was delicious!
The owners were so nice and welcoming, and they take credit/debit cards! YAY!
Linlithgow and Linlithgow Palace
After a relaxing breakfast, we headed out for Linlithgow and Linlithgow Palace.
We originally planned to visit Linlithgow to see the palace, but after researching, we found that the town was also worth exploring.
We started with Linlithgow Palace to ensure we were not rushed during our visit.
Our GPS originally told us to turn at a road at the far end of the palace property.
At first, I was a little frustrated by this, but then Marty had me pull over and brought this great view to my attention.
Needless to say, we were delighted that the GPS took us the wrong way. LOL!
Linlithgow is located about 15 miles west of Edinburgh.
The town is known as a Royal Burgh since Linlithgow Palace was once the principal residence of the monarchs of Scotland, especially the Stewart kings and queens.
What was once a lavish palace during the 15th and 16th centuries is now an incredible set of ruins.
Consider stopping in town and taking a picnic lunch to enjoy the greens of Linlithgow.
You will need several hours to explore this gorgeous palace.
Driving up the road to the palace, you will pass under the beautiful gates leading to the palace entrance.
There is ample parking just outside the palace entrance, and although there is an entrance fee, you won’t have to worry about it because you bought your Scotland Explorer Pass.
Take time to really explore and enjoy these well-preserved ruins.
Marty and I loved climbing the towers overlooking the beautiful loch and park.
We also enjoyed admiring the elegant architecture as we searched the palace for Mary, Queen of Scots’s birthplace.
St. Michael’s Parish Church
While visiting, don’t overlook the historic church just outside the palace, St. Michael’s Parish.
Although the original structure was destroyed by a fire in 1424, the church dates back to the mid-15th century.
The church boasts beautiful architecture, gorgeous stained glass, and a lot of Scottish history.
What to do in Linlithgow
After visiting the palace, check out the town of Linlithgow as well.
View the cross and cross well in the center of the Royal Burgh.
Browse the numerous shops lining the street before walking from High Street to the Canal Basin.
Before visiting Scotland’s only canal museum and tea room, you can take a canal tour.
We suggest you head to Golden Chip for some great fish and chips for dinner.
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days-Day 3
Dunfermline Abbey and Blair Castle
Pittencrieff Park and Dunfermline Abbey
Day 3 consisted of visiting Dunfermline Abbey before heading north to Blair Castle.
Because this day consisted of more driving, we filled the car with gas and grabbed a quick breakfast to get on the road!
Once we arrived in Dunfermline, Fife, we chose to park in the public lot by Pittencrieff Park.
Walking through the park, I could easily see why it is one of Scotland’s most popular urban parks.
Surrounded by lush beauty, this 76-acre park reminded me of Central Park in New York City.
I loved how the squirrels seemed to pose for Marty to take their picture. LOL!
After our wonderful stroll through the park, we arrived at Dunfermline Abbey and Palace.
Originally a priory, Dunfermline became an abbey and then a mausoleum where some of Scotland’s greatest monarchs are buried.
Walk around outside the building admiring the gorgeous architecture (and maybe giggle at the “King Bruce” so prominently displayed) before walking inside.
The interior of the church is just as magnificent as the exterior.
Notice the adjacent palace Queen Anna of Denmark built following the Protestant Reformation in 1560.
This gorgeous palace also had a monastic guesthouse attached to it.
While touring the palace ruins, take note of the fabulous views of the surrounding area.
I can imagine the peace and serenity surrounding Dunfermline Palace during its prime.
Blair Castle
The drive north to Blair Castle was gorgeous.
Although I must admit, it was also a bit comical for Marty and me as we searched the fields for the infamous “hairy coo” (aka the Highland cow).
Nonetheless, it was a fun drive. I felt like we were playing a real-life version of Where’s Waldo. LOL!
When we first approached Blair Castle, I fell in love. I absolutely adored the castle’s exterior, and apparently, so did everyone else, as it was officially selfie central in front of this castle!
So, you know, why not get in on the action?
Blair Castle has an interesting history you will learn about on your tour.
Over 30 rooms on display showcase beautiful antique furniture, a massive collection of weaponry, priceless tapestries, and an incredible Victorian ballroom decorated with 175 pairs of antlers.
While we were visiting, a Victoria display showcased the costumes from the filming of the show Victoria.
After the castle tour, we took the time to roam around the gorgeous property, exploring the gardens and meeting all of the animals that Blair Castle is home to.
Sadly, though, we didn’t see a hairy coo.
We were told they had some, but they had not brought them into pasture close to the castle yet, so our hunt will continue on the drive back!
The Search for the Hairy Coo (Highland Cow)
Driving back to our castle apartment, Marty and I were again on the lookout for the famous hairy coo.
Since I was driving, Marty had the challenge of being the spotter. We took full advantage of the funny name by making up silly songs and jokes using the saying ‘hairy coo.’ LOL!
Suddenly, out of nowhere, Marty yelled out to turn around. He had spotted a hairy coo.
Granted, it was part of a roadside attraction for a small store/restaurant, but we didn’t care. We finally found the furry cow that we had been searching for.
Look at this: it’s a furry cow with huge horns and BANGS!
How do you not love a cow with bangs?
Side note: these ladies, yes, the ladies have horns also, were so friendly.
She ate right out of our hands and allowed us to pet her! Just watch out for those horns!
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days- Day 4
Jedburgh Abbey, Jedburgh Castle, and Melrose Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey and Castle
We started the day after another great breakfast at Flat Cat Gallery in Lauder (this time, I splurged and had an amazing salted caramel brownie- yum). Then, we hit the road on our journey.
Today, we headed to Jedburgh and Melrose to visit some of Scotland’s famous abbeys.
The beautiful Jedburgh Abbey is in the town of Jedburgh and is part of your Scotland Explorer Pass.
Originally established as a priory in the 1100s, Jedburgh Abbey has a fabulous and interesting history, which we go into more detail on in our post 3 Beautiful Abbeys in Scotland.
Marty was in photography heaven as every angle of this abbey is absolutely stunning. The mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles is breathtaking.
Jedburgh Castle
Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum has an impressive location at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Jedburgh.
Here, you can learn about the history of Jedburgh and experience what life was like in an 1820s prison.
We had fun touring the prison blocks and cells, but as we walked through the hallowed halls, I couldn’t help but think what an awful existence to be locked up in this or any other prison!
Melrose Abbey
After grabbing a bite to eat in Jedburgh, we headed for the town of Melrose to see Melrose Abbey. Melrose Abbey is another fabulous Scottish ruin in the Borders region.
I loved climbing to the top of Melrose and taking in the beautiful views surrounding this historic site. Another architectural masterpiece, Melrose, is extraordinary.
You can’t have a 7-day Scotland itinerary without Melrose Abbey.
Read more about our trip to Melrose in our post 3 Beautiful Abbeys in Scotland.
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days- Day 5
Rosslyn Chapel, Dirleton Castle, and Tantallon Castle
Rosslyn Chapel
Today, we headed to the beautiful and historic Rosslyn Chapel.
I first knew of Rosslyn Chapel due to its claim to fame as a filming site for The Da Vinci Code.
Seen by many as the connection between the Knights Templar and the Freemasons, Rosslyn is not only a mystery but a true work of art.
The chapel’s exterior boasts amazing stonework and gorgeous medieval architecture.
Still, honestly, the incredible interior with its wall-to-wall stone carvings brings people flocking to this mysterious site.
Words cannot describe all of the fascinating carvings found inside Rosslyn Chapel.
You must visit Rosslyn Chapel to truly understand, as photos inside the church were not allowed.
Dirleton Castle
After leaving Rosslyn, we headed north toward North Berwick, a town recommended by our hosts at Thirlestane Castle.
The drive was beautiful, and we loved stopping at Dirleton Castle.
Dirleton was home to noble families for over 400 years before it was badly damaged by Cromwell’s men in 1650.
Today, these fabulous ruins are like a medieval playground and another great find on your Scotland Explorer Pass.
Make your way up the drawbridge before visiting the pit prison, storage vaults, and Haliburton range.
After touring the castle ruins, stroll through the beautiful gardens as well.
Tantallon Castle
Located just outside North Berwick, Tantallon Castle was probably one of my favorite castle ruins in Scotland.
The last medieval curtain wall castle built in Scotland, Tantallon is surrounded by gorgeous, breathtaking natural sea cliffs on three sides.
The curtain wall is over 15 meters high and connects three towers.
Standing on the wall allows for incredible views of the surrounding sea.
Marty and I spent hours walking the grounds while exploring the castle and taking in the gorgeous views.
I would totally have lived here!
Scotland Itinerary 7 Days- Day 6 and 7
Edinburgh
Days 6 and 7 of our seven days in Scotland were spent in Edinburgh.
I had really wanted to spend 2 days in The Isle of Sky, but we decided to save that for our next trip and see more of northern Scotland.
Edinburgh is a fabulous historic city that is also one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Not only that, but it is easily walkable as well.
This makes it incredibly easy to see the sights in 2 days.
We toured Edinburgh Castle, tasting Scotch Whisky, and exploring The Royal Mile while in Edinburgh.
For a complete itinerary of our time in Edinburgh, please read our 2 Days in Edinburgh.
Suggested Scotland Tours:
Final Thoughts on Scotland Itinerary-7 Days
While our seven-day Scotland itinerary didn’t even touch many parts of Scotland, specifically the Highlands and the islands, we hope we inspired you to visit this gorgeous country and see some of the fabulous castles and abbeys that call Scotland home.
I know we will return to Scotland and expand our tour to include more of this beautiful country.
We would love to hear from you.
Please comment below and tell us what you would love to see in Scotland. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe to get our free travel samples.
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Until next time, happy travels, friends!
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Erin
Tuesday 1st of March 2022
Perfect timing, we're planning a Scotland trip for next year! Pinning this itinerary for later, can't wait until we get to visit!
thattexascouple
Wednesday 2nd of March 2022
That's so awesome. I hope you have fun. We loved Scotland!
Krista
Thursday 24th of September 2020
Great list of places to visit! Next time I would recommend checking out St Andrews which isn't too far from Edinburgh and Dundee
thattexascouple
Thursday 24th of September 2020
Thank you for that recommendation, Krista! We will definitely do that!
Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad
Saturday 23rd of May 2020
Great post! This is different to a lot of itineraries I see, but you checked out some great places! I absolutely love Stirling, and Linlithgow Palace (and Linlithgow itself) is really underrated.
Anna
Tuesday 7th of January 2020
I love Scotland so much! I have only managed to visit for weekends so far! Would love to spend a whole 7 days here and see all those magnificent castles!
Eunice Tan
Tuesday 7th of January 2020
Staying in a castle sounds absolutely lovely. While it may have restricted the distance you covered, I think you more than made up in terms of depth. Tantallon castle really has such a gorgeous view! Hope to visit Scotland soon.