
Le château de Dunnottar, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
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7 Days in the East of Scotland
Want a real flavour of Scotland? Coastlines and castles, beaches and breweries, cathedrals and cashmere, whisky and walks; all this lies ahead of you (and much more) as you spend seven days exploring the east coast of Scotland.
Taking in a range of cities and towns, stretching from Edinburgh to Pitlochry, you can explore St Andrews, Dundee, Aberdeen and more. You'll also explore miles of countryside, weave through rural communities and even journey through one of our National Parks! Are you ready to tour the north east coast of Scotland?
Dundee has been named as one of Lonely Planet's 'Best in Europe' destinations and it's easy to see why with it's cultural scene, historic waterfront, buzzing music, creative events and much more on offer.
- Départ / Arrivée
- Centre-ville d'Édimbourg / Edinburgh
- Jours7
- Distance396 Miles
633.6 km - Moyen de transportVoiture
- Thème principalAttractions
- Lieux d’intérêt
- Edinburgh's attractions
- Fishing villages of East Neuk
- St Andrews
- RRS Discovery
- Arbroath Abbey
- Dunnottar Castle
- Strathisla Distillery
- The Hermitage
- Régions couvertes
- Est
Jour 1 Take in the highlights of Scotland's capital
Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital city is bound to leave an impression on you. You could easily spend days upon days discovering its many fantastic attractions, hidden gems and vibrant cultural scene. Today's stops will give you a real feel for this beautiful city's unique character, fascinating past and unbridled charm.
- 1
Edinburgh Castle Centre-ville d'Édimbourg
Edinburgh Castle
Towering over the city, you won't be able to miss Edinburgh Castle. As well as offering spectacular views of the skyline, it's home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. On your visit, uncover Scotland's military history in the National War Museum and take in the haunting National War Memorial. Once you've explored the castle, wander down the Royal Mile to take in this famous thoroughfare - it's lined with an eclectic range of shops, pubs, eateries and historic closes, and you can also find St Giles' Cathedral in the middle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom of the street.
Plus d’infos sur : Edinburgh CastleCastle Hill, Centre-ville d'Édimbourg, EH1 2NGInfrastructures- Itinéraire desservi par les transports en commun
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- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 2
National Museum of Scotland Centre-ville d'Édimbourg
National Museum of Scotland entance (c) Andrew Lee
© Andrew Lee
Not only is the National Museum of Scotland free to visit and full of thousands of incredible objects, the building is an architectural masterpiece that should not be missed by fans of design. Take in the vast airy space of the Grand Gallery before moving into the galleries on art, design and science, which covers everything from Dolly the Sheep, a marvel of genetics, to the couture fashions of Vivienne Westwood, and the late Alexander McQueen. There are also fantastic temporary exhibitions to see. It's a real treasure trove!
Plus d’infos sur : National Museum of ScotlandChambers Street, Centre-ville d'Édimbourg, EH1 1JFInfrastructures- Itinéraire desservi par les transports en commun
- Boucle magnétique
- Accès au niveau du sol
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 3
Calton Hill and the National Monument Édimbourg
Scottish National Monument.
© Kenny Lam, VisitScotland. All rights reserved.
Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, and for budding photographers or those keen to admire the stunning cityscape, it's time to head to Calton Hill to enjoy great views in the lingering light of the late afternoon. You'll see the National Monument, and art lovers can also pop into the Collective Gallery, one of the city's many art galleries. Afterwards, if you are ready for dinner, you could catch the 22 Lothian Bus to the Leith area of the city. It's one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the UK and boasts two Michelin-star restaurants. Alternatively, wander along Princes Street or George Street to the city's West End.
Plus d’infos sur : Calton Hill and the National Monument32 Greenside Road, Édimbourg, EH1 3AJ - 4
Real Mary King's Close Centre-ville d'Édimbourg
Bottom of The Real Mary King's Close
If you're keen to pack in one more attraction in the evening and want to find out more about the history of Edinburgh's Old Town, then take a tour of the Real Mary King's Close. Step into the past as you head below the Royal Mile to discover a warren of old streets and living and working quarters from the 17th century which have been forgotten for hundreds of years. As well as fascinating and detailed accounts of the people who occupied the close, there's also a few chilling tales to unearth - a must for any history lover or fans of the macabre! Alternatively, take a supernatural-themed walking tour to uncover more of Edinburgh's spooky side.
Plus d’infos sur : Real Mary King's Close- Temps d’exploration
- 1 heure
High Street, 2 Warriston's Close, Centre-ville d'Édimbourg, EH1 1PGInfrastructures- Boucle magnétique
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
Jour 2 Explore Fife & St Andrews
Leave Edinburgh and venture out into the Kingdom of Fife, taking the Queensferry Crossing. Look out for the remarkable structure of the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Forth Road Bridge. Follow the brown signs for the Fife Coastal Route to take in the sparkling coastline and the picturesque villages of the East Neuk.
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The villages of the East Neuk of Fife Pittenweem
Pittenweem perches on the rocks above the sea, its pink, white and grey houses topped with terracotta roof tiles and reflected in the water below.
© Kenny Lam, all rights reserved.
The East Neuk refers to a scattering of quaint fishing villages in the north east corner of Fife. With curious winding streets, ancient stone harbours, and original white-washed fisherman's cottages, they make the perfect place to stop, breathe in the sea air, and perhaps grab a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. In Pittenweem, wander to the pier to see colourful bobbing boats, or walk up Cove Wynd to find the tiny St Fillan's Cave, said to have been used as a chapel by the saint in the eighth century. Or, instead head to Anstruther to try famous fish and chips, before visiting the town's Scottish Fisheries Museum. It's here that you can hop on board The Reaper, a Fife sailing herring drifter featured in the TV series Outlander (access available by prior arrangement).
Find out more about the East NeukPittenweem - 6
St Andrews West Sands and Town Centre St Andrews
Looking along West Sands towards the town, St Andrews, Fife
© Richard Campbell, all rights reserved.
Next, head to beautiful St Andrews, a historic university town. If you're keen to work up an appetite before lunch, take a bracing stroll along the town's iconic West Sands, a long, flat beach which was famously featured in the historical drama film Chariots of Fire (1981). West Sands lines the town's world-famous golf courses and lying not far from the south end of the beach is the famous Swilcan Bridge on the Old Course. Wander through the streets of the town and you'll find a range of boutique shops, cosy pubs, cafés and restaurants, as well as the ancient university campus, St Andrews Cathedral and St Andrews Castle.
Plus d’infos sur : St Andrews West Sands and Town CentreSt Andrews - 7
Eden Mill Distillery & Brewery Guardbridge
Eden Mill St Andrews Distillery & Brewery
If you fancy trying a local tipple, then book a late afternoon tour at Eden Mill Distillery & Brewery, just a 10 minute drive from St Andrews' town centre. Producing craft beer, small-batch gin and Scotch whisky, there's bound to be the perfect tour to match your palate. Perhaps you'll fall head over heels for the Love Gin, or enjoy a fusion of flavours as you sample the whisky barrel beer (but remember: it's against the law to drink and drive). From Eden Mill, head north and take the Tay Bridge across the waters of the silvery River Tay to Dundee.
Plus d’infos sur : Eden Mill Distillery & BreweryMain Street, Guardbridge, Guardbridge, KY16 0USInfrastructures- Parking
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- Animaux de compagnie bienvenus
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Accès au niveau du sol
- Toilettes accessibles
Jour 3 Make Discoveries in Dundee
On the third day of your trip, it's time to discover the unique offerings of Dundee, Scotland's fourth largest city. A UNESCO City of Design, Dundee is a thriving, compact place full of exciting developments and has a vibrant cultural scene. It also has a fascinating and varied history that includes textiles manufacturing, polar exploration, journalism… and marmalade!
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RRS Discovery Dundee (Ville)
Discovery Point and RRS Discovery
© Dundee Heritage Trust
Hop on board the ship which has travelled to the ends of the earth and back! Captain Scott and his hardy crew reached the then undiscovered polar region of Antarctica in the early 1900s in one of the most significant expeditions to have ever been undertaken. Wander through the ship, see objects that belonged to Scott and his men, and discover their brave tales of seafaring and difficulties in the Antarctic. At this family attraction, there's plenty of engaging things to see and do that kids will really enjoy.
Plus d’infos sur : RRS Discovery- Temps d’exploration
- 2 heures
Discovery Quay, Dundee (Ville), DD1 4XAInfrastructures- Parking
- Itinéraire desservi par les transports en commun
- Boucle magnétique
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Accès au niveau du sol
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 9
V&A Dundee Dundee (Ville)
V&A Dundee
Visit V&A Dundee to see world-class examples of design, from architecture, fashion and furniture to video games and even healthcare. This is the first V&A museum in the world outside London and there are plenty of intriguing objects and enlightening exhibitions to see. Housed within an extraordinary building, designed by the internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, V&A Dundee also offers a tempting café and lovely gift shop.
Set off for St Andrews on the service 99 bus that will take you directly into this seaside town. The service runs every 10 minutes and the journey only takes 30 minutes too.
Plus d’infos sur : V&A Dundee1 Riverside Esplanade, Dundee (Ville), DD1 4EZ - 10
McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum Dundee (Ville)
The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
From V&A Dundee, it's just a 10 minute walk through the city centre to the McManus, Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. With eight galleries across two floors, there's a surprising range of artefacts to discover, which includes thousands of objects from all over the world which demonstrate Dundee's role as an important centre of trade; traditional ceremonial masks, Inuit relics and Egyptian archaeology are just some of the things that you'll encounter. You'll also find plenty of exhibits which tell the story of Dundee, its history, people and culture.
Plus d’infos sur : McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & MuseumAlbert Square, Meadowside, Dundee (Ville), DD1 1DAInfrastructures- Itinéraire desservi par les transports en commun
- Boucle magnétique
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Accès au niveau du sol
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 11
Dundee Contemporary Arts Dundee (Ville)
Dundee Contemporary Arts
Open day and night, Dundee Contemporary Arts lies on Perth Road and is a hub of culture and style. Visit in the afternoon and enjoy exhibitions on modern art and explore quirky, design-orientated wares in the shop. There's also a cinema where you can see the latest releases, classic films and independent productions, and Jute, a trendy café-bar and a great place for sophisticated dining. In the evening, you could enjoy dinner before catching a play at the Dundee Rep Theatre, or visit for an aperitif before trying another of Dundee's dining options.
Plus d’infos sur : Dundee Contemporary Arts152 Nethergate, Dundee (Ville), DD1 4DY
Jour 4 Head north to Aberdeen
Follow the brown tourist route signs marked for the Angus Coastal Route and spend part of today taking in the ever-changing coastline of the north east of Scotland, with its cliffs, sheltered bays and harbour towns. On route to Aberdeen, make two stops to discover two of Scotland's most spectacular historic attractions: Arbroath Abbey and Dunnottar Castle.
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Arbroath Abbey Arbroath
Arbroath Abbey
A 30 minute drive from Dundee will take you to the historic town of Arbroath, home to Arbroath Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey went down in the history books as being the place where the Declaration of Abroath was signed in 1320, which affirmed that Scotland was an independent nation. Explore the church ruin, the gatehouse range and the abbot's house. Afterwards, you could walk to the ancient harbour and pick up an Arbroath Smokie from the town centre, a traditionally smoked haddock which is a famous local delicacy.
Plus d’infos sur : Arbroath AbbeyAbbey Street, Arbroath, DD11 1EG - 13
Dunnottar Castle Stonehaven
Scottish Castle on top of cliffs
The well-preserved ruins of Dunnottar Castle are perched on a dramatic cliff some 160 ft above the North Sea. This once impregnable fortress was visited by legendary historic figures including William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, Oliver Cromwell and in more recent times Mel Gibson in Franco Zeffirelli's 1991 film, Hamlet.
If you're lucky, you may even see puffins or dolphins from the castle ramparts.
From Dunnottar Castle you can catch the service 107 bus to Montrose, and then hop on the train down to Dundee, taking roughly 1h 55m.
Plus d’infos sur : Dunnottar CastleDisney castleDunnottar Castle is also said to be the inspiration for the DunBroch family home in Disney Pixar's Brave.
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, AB39 2TLInfrastructures- Parking
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- Animaux de compagnie bienvenus
- 14
Aberdeen Aberdeen
Footdee
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Enjoy a relaxing evening in Aberdeen and take in this handsome city's unique atmosphere. You could take a walk to the city's bustling port and try to spot the bay's resident dolphins from the vantage point of the Torry Battery, or explore the curious Footdee (also known locally as 'Fittie'), an adorable grouping of houses in an old fishing village. Nearby is Silver Darling, a chic seafood restaurant, perfect for a lavish treat. Alternatively, explore Old Aberdeen, which encompasses the city's university, where you can admire 18th century architecture. When it's time to wine and dine, head to Belmont Street - there's plenty of bars and restaurants on the street itself and in the surrounding area.
Find out more about Aberdeen
Jour 5 Venture from Aberdeen to Elgin
Today, you can spend the morning in Aberdeen experiencing one or two cultural highlights before journeying through the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside, taking in one of the region's many castles before you reach the market town of Elgin in the Moray area of the Highlands.
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Aberdeen Maritime Museum Aberdeen
Aberdeen Maritime Museum exterior photograph
Looking at Aberdeen Harbour, it's no surprise to learn that Aberdeen is one of Scotland's most important ports. The best place to discover more about this city's industry and its long relationship with the North Sea is at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Through objects, paintings, exhibitions and interactive displays, you can find out about the likes of ship building and fishing in Aberdeen and the fascinating story of the North Sea oil industry.
Plus d’infos sur : Aberdeen Maritime MuseumMaritime Museum, Shiprow, Aberdeen, AB11 5BY - 16
Castle Fraser Kemnay
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
Leave the city and head inland towards Castle Fraser. Like Dunnottar Castle, this is one of the many castles which make up Aberdeenshire's Castle Trail. Dating back to the 15th century, it's a fine example of a Scottish baronial castle. Explore its grand rooms, full of portraits and period furniture before heading up the tower to admire great views across the estate. Outside, you can explore the gardens, or follow one of the lovely trails which lead through the expansive grounds.
Plus d’infos sur : Castle FraserSauchen, Kemnay, AB51 7LDInfrastructures- Parking
- Animaux de compagnie bienvenus
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 17
Strathisla Distillery Keith
Strathisla Distillery
Strathisla Distillery is the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands, dating back to 1786. The distillery's fantastic tours will give you an insight into the art of blending as the distillery produces a range of Chivas Regal premium blended whiskies alongside its single malt Strathisla 12-Year-Old.
Plus d’infos sur : Strathisla DistillerySeafield Avenue, Keith, AB55 5BSInfrastructures- Parking
- Itinéraire desservi par les transports en commun
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- 18
Elgin Elgin
Elgin Museum opened in 1843 and is Scotland's oldest independent museum. The museum holds objects from all over the world with a focus on Moray and th
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Continue to Elgin. You can stroll around the town, passing by North College Street to see the ruin of Elgin Cathedral, before enjoying a refreshment in a pub such as Drouthy Cobbler or sitting down to an evening meal in a local restaurant. If it's a pleasant evening, you might fancy a short drive to one of the nearby sandy beaches at Hopeman or Lossiemouth to catch the sunset and wander along the sandy shoreline before dining at a country inn, such as the Duffus Inn.
If you want to extend your trip, why not go west to Inverness, or even continue on to do the North Coast 500 before heading south, back to Edinburgh?
After exploring Elgin, take the service 36 bus towards Dufftown, stopping off at Macallan Distillery to taste a dram or two. The journey takes roughly 50 minutes.
Plus d’infos sur : ElginElgin, IV30 6YQ
Jour 6 Weave through Royal Deeside to Highland Perthshire
Today, spend the morning in Elgin before driving south through Speyside, home to Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail, and Royal Deeside, an area much-loved by the British monarchy. This scenic route also takes in the majestic Cairngorms National Park, where the landscape of impressive mountains, rushing rivers and deep forest won't fail to capture your imagination.
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Johnstons of Elgin Cashmere Visitor Centre Elgin
Johnstons Of Elgin
Johnstons of Elgin are one of the most distinguished producers of woollen and cashmere goods, having been established in 1797. Take a free tour of the Elgin mill - it's the only mill in Scotland to transform raw cashmere from fibre to a finished product. The visitor centre can be found in the beautiful courtyard building and has a fascinating exhibition where you can discover the company's history. For those keen to take home some cashmere or woollen goods, browse through Johnstons of Elgin's quality designs in the mill shop.
Plus d’infos sur : Johnstons of Elgin Cashmere Visitor CentreNew Mill, Elgin, IV30 4AFInfrastructures- Parking
- Animaux de compagnie bienvenus
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- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
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- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 20
Braemar Braemar
Braemar is a village in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, around 58 miles west of Aberdeen city.
© VisitScotland / Damian Shields
At Braemar you could simply stop for a break and wander the high street, or take the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the open spaces of the national park. For a gentle circular walk, follow Queen's Drive and River Clunie circuit which follows the river before joining Queen's Drive, one of Queen Victoria's favoured routes. Alternatively, if you're keen to fit in more historic attractions, visit Braemar Castle. Braemar is also home to the Braemar Gathering, a Highland games which always takes place on the first Saturday of September and is usually attended by members of the Royal family.
Plus d’infos sur : BraemarBraemar - 21
Pitlochry Pitlochry
Le château de Blair, Blair Atholl, Perthshire
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
From Braemar, pass through the Spittal of Glenshee to Pitlochry, your stop for this evening. Pitlochry itself is considered to be a gateway to the Highlands, and the pleasant village has a range of shops and cafés, as well as fascinating museums and heritage centres. You might have time to see the Pitlochry Power Station and Dam, as well as the nearby Fish Ladder, which was built to allow the migration of wild Atlantic salmon as they make their way from the sea to Scotland's rivers. The Power Station has a brand new visitor centre, where you can find out how this engineering wonder was built and learn about hydroelectricity. Near Pitlochry lies an impressive wooded gorge, a popular beauty spot known as the Pass of Killiecrankie, and the enchanting Blair Castle & Gardens.
Find out more
Jour 7 Journey from Pitlochry to Edinburgh
Today, you'll head south from Highland Perthshire, taking in one of the country's favourite beauty spots and stopping in Perth, a city which straddles the River Tay. Explore the city streets and make time for the Black Watch Museum, where you can uncover the dramatic history of Scotland's foremost Highland regiment.
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The Hermitage Dunkeld
The Hermitage
Only 20 minutes' drive from Pitlochry lies Dunkeld, where you'll find The Hermitage. This magnificent woodland site dates from the 18th century and is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland. With tall trees and tumbling waterfalls, there's no surprise that it is popular with both walkers and photographers alike. Follow trails along the banks of the River Braan. Look out for man-made features as you explore, including a totem pole with Pictish and Squamish designs, as well as Ossian's Hall, a pretty folly which overlooks the Black Linn Falls.
Plus d’infos sur : The HermitageOld Military Road, Dunkeld, PH8 0JR - 23
Black Watch Castle & Museum Perth
1. The Black Watch Castle & Museum
© The Black Watch Castle and Museum
Step inside Balhousie Castle and explore the museum to discover the intriguing history of the Blackwatch Regiment, which dates back to 1725. Through a range of objects and memorabilia including uniforms, photographs, diaries, artworks, medals, weapons and military kits, as well as films and personal accounts, uncover the story of the regiment and relive their most dramatic moments. Afterwards you could wander to Perth Art Gallery or take in the streets of the city centre. Alternatively, take in the splendour of nearby Scone Palace, the world famous crowning place of Scottish kings.
Plus d’infos sur : Black Watch Castle & MuseumBalhousie Castle, Hay Street, Perth, PH1 5HRInfrastructures- Parking
- Animaux de compagnie bienvenus
- Boucle magnétique
- Parking accessible ou point de débarquement
- Accès au niveau du sol
- Toilettes accessibles
- Wi-Fi
- Cafétéria ou restaurant
- 24
Edinburgh Edinburgh
Vue sur Édimbourg depuis Calton Hill
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
From Perth, head south to Edinburgh, returning over the Queensferry Crossing. Should you fancy extending your trip, there are also some other fantastic locations that are easily reachable from Edinburgh, including the beautiful seaside town of North Berwick in East Lothian, or the scenic region of the Scottish Borders, which is now accessible by rail via the Borders Railway. You could easily spend a few more days discovering more of Edinburgh, taking in great museums, galleries, tours and heritage sites - or maybe just an afternoon relaxing in a cheery, traditional pub? It has been a busy seven days, after all!
If you're eager to see the other side of the country, you could follow our seven days in the west of Scotland itinerary and enjoy an incredible two weeks of Scottish road trip adventure!
Find out more
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