Scotland

The Best Tours from Edinburgh to St Andrews

by Rachel Naismith  |  Published August 20, 2023

Delve into the magic of Scotland on an Edinburgh to St Andrews day trip, immersing yourself in history, golf, and optional delights like Falkland Palace and the picturesque Kingdom of Fife.

(Photo: dun_deagh via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Embark on an Edinburgh to St Andrews day trip to discover Scotland’s captivating beauty and rich history. These recommended tours will provide an opportunity to explore the treasures of St Andrews, from its esteemed university and iconic golf courses to its rugged shores. Along the way, immerse yourself in the past and present of this country, with optional highlights such as historic Falkland Palace and the picturesque Kingdom of Fife.

From Edinburgh: St Andrews and the Fishing Villages of Fife Tour

(Photo: GetYourGuide.com)

Explore the engaging charm of St Andrews and the picturesque fishing villages of Fife in a day-long journey that starts from Edinburgh. From the comfort of an air-conditioned coach, this experience is enriched by live commentary, offering insights into the allure of Anstruther, St Andrews, and South Queensferry. The adventure begins with a crossing of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, signifying entry into the storied “Kingdom of Fife”. Along the way, the attractive villages of St. Monans and Pittenween, former bustling fishing hubs, will unfold. There is time to pause in Anstruther, home to the Scottish Fisheries Museum, before venturing to the medieval delights of St Andrews. Here, three hours of leisure can be enjoyed, wandering cobbled streets, exploring historic ruins, and visiting Scotland’s oldest university. The return journey affords panoramic vistas of the Forth Bridges in South Queensferry and the serene Lomond hills. This carefully curated journey seamlessly intertwines history, culture, and the beauty of nature, creating an unforgettable day trip from the Scottish capital. From €51 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide.com

From Edinburgh: St Andrews, Nature Walk and Dunfermline Abbey

(Photo: GetYourGuide.com)

For nature enthusiasts, this day tour presents a wonderful chance to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Loch Leven Nature Reserve and to explore the historical allure of St Andrews town and Dunfermline Abbey. Departing by coach from Edinburgh, the tour begins with iconic Queensferry Crossing, setting the scene for a coastal adventure in St Andrews. A charming walk through its historic streets, with highlights including visits to St Andrews Castle and the venerable St Andrews Cathedral, is followed by a leisurely lunch. Next, a new chapter unfolds with a visit to Loch Leven Nature Reserve, a natural haven teeming with wildlife. The final stop is at Dunfermline Abbey, where the story of Scottish history comes to life. An expert Scotland tour guide, well-versed in their field, will be present throughout, sharing in-depth insights along the way. The day culminates with a return to Edinburgh. From €87 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide.com

St Andrews golf tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh

(Photo by Marc Climent via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Golf enthusiasts, this one’s for you! A 10-hour luxury car tour whisks you away to the heart of Scotland’s golfing scene on the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply want to explore the historic ‘home of golf’, this experience is tailored to fit the bill. The Royal and Ancient Golf Museum, just yards from the famous Old Course, is not to be missed. However, a day in St Andrews has something for everyone – you can tee off, or take a leisurely stroll through the historical old town, explore delightful shops, enjoy spectacular Scottish scenery, and even unwind on the inviting sandy beach. As the day winds down, a stop at Culross, one of Scotland’s most picturesque villages (and the famous filming location from Outlander), awaits. With a chauffeur-guide dressed in traditional Highland attire, you’ll gain an insider’s view of Scottish history and culture, making this bespoke tour an unforgettable fusion of golf and heritage. From €708 per group.

Book at Viator.com