Edinburgh: St. Andrews and Falkland Palace Day Tour

If you’re craving a full day of Scottish sights, history, and coastal charm without the hassle of organizing transportation, this Edinburgh: St. Andrews and Falkland Palace Day Tour offers a compelling option. For just $75 per person, you get to wander through postcard-perfect villages, step inside a royal palace, and explore the legendary town of St Andrews, all in a well-paced 9-hour journey designed to maximize your sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning coastal views along Fife’s fishing villages—Elie, St Monans, and Pittenweem—offer picture-perfect scenery. Second, the visit to Falkland Palace, once home to the Stuarts and associated with Mary Queen of Scots, enriches your understanding of Scottish royalty and Renaissance architecture. Third, the free time in St Andrews gives you flexibility to indulge in golf history, browse shops, or simply soak in the medieval atmosphere. That said, the one thing to keep in mind is that the group size is limited to a small coach, which can be great for intimacy but may feel a little tight if you prefer large bus adventures.

This tour suits those who love a mixture of scenic drives, historical sites, and charming villages. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a cost-effective day trip that covers a variety of Scottish highlights, with the convenience of round-trip transport from Edinburgh.

Good To Know

• Scenic Coastal Drive: Travel along Fife’s coastline, passing through historic fishing villages with picturesque harbors.
• Historic Sites: Visit Falkland Palace, a Renaissance gem once frequented by Mary Queen of Scots.
• Golf Capital: Explore St Andrews, the birthplace of golf, with time to see the Old Course and Swilcan Bridge.
• Authentic Scottish Villages: Experience the charm of Anstruther, Elie, and St Monans, with opportunities for photos, walks, or a coffee break.
• Small Group Comfort: Enjoy personalized commentary and a relaxed atmosphere with a small coach.
• Value for Money: At $75, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Fife’s highlights without breaking the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins at Waterloo Place, a central and easily accessible spot in Edinburgh. You’ll check in at the Bus Stand ZE, opposite Howie’s Restaurant, with the silver Mercedes mini coach ready to whisk you away. The air-conditioned vehicle seats just 16 passengers, striking a good balance between intimacy and comfort. The small size means you’ll get a more personalized experience, with your guide, whose name isn’t specified but evidently attentive and knowledgeable (according to reviews), able to tailor commentary and answer questions more easily.

The drive across the Forth Road Bridge is a treat in itself. You’ll get to see the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and engineering marvel that looms large over the landscape. From the bridge, the journey continues along the coast, giving you your first taste of Fife’s rugged beauty.

Exploring Anstruther

The first stop is Anstruther, one of Fife’s most lively and picturesque fishing villages. The town’s harbor is a photographer’s dream, with colorful boats bobbing against a backdrop of historic cottages. Reviewers have noted that this is a great spot to sit, relax, and take in the views, or wander through the narrow, cobbled streets. You’ll have around 45 minutes here—enough time for a quick stroll, some local shopping, or a coffee in a cozy café.

Some visitors have mentioned that Anstruther’s lively atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual break. It’s a classic example of Fife’s traditional fishing community, with roots dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The town’s charm is undeniable, and many find it a highlight of the trip.

St Andrews: The Golf and Medieval Town

Next, it’s about 2.9 hours in St Andrews, a town famous worldwide as the home of golf. Here, you’ll have enough time to explore the medieval streets, visit the Royal and Ancient Golf Museum, and see iconic landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge at the Old Course. The atmosphere is a captivating mix of academic history and sporting legend—after all, the University of St Andrews is the oldest in Scotland.

The free time allows you to wander through the university grounds, visit the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops, or browse local shops. Many travelers appreciate the chance to stand on the famous 1st tee and imagine the history that’s been played out here for centuries. An insightful review mentions that the tour includes a visit to the castle ruins and the box dungeon, giving a taste of medieval Scotland.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Falkland and Falkland Palace

The afternoon involves a stop at Falkland, the village that stood in for Inverness in the hit TV series Outlander. The highlight here is the Falkland Palace, once the royal country residence. Its Renaissance architecture and lush gardens are a treat for visitors interested in royal history and architecture.

You’ll have about an hour at Falkland, enough time to explore the palace gardens, enjoy the scents of the Physic Garden, and perhaps browse the local shops. Reviewers have noted that the palace is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland, and many appreciate the chance to walk through a site steeped in royal history.

Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, the coach heads back to Edinburgh, arriving at Waterloo Place around 6:30 pm. The drive allows you to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic views one last time.

Practical Details and Value

Price and Value

At $75 per person, this tour packs in a lot—ferrying you through some of Fife’s most picturesque towns, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. Given that entry fees are not included, the value hinges on the experience itself, not just the ticket price. Many reviews mention the good value for the price, especially considering the small group size and the variety of sites covered.

Timing and Group Size

With a 9-hour duration, the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The small coach enhances comfort and interaction, but it also means you should be prepared for a tight schedule in some stops. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough free time to explore without feeling rushed.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be walking through villages and historic sites. Weather in Scotland can change quickly, so packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella is wise. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning views, and some cash might come in handy for small purchases or tips.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, golf fans, and scenery lovers. It’s perfect if you prefer a small-group setting where you can interact more closely with your guide. The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or those in wheelchairs, so check mobility needs beforehand.

If you want a balanced day filled with coastal charm, medieval architecture, and royal history at a reasonable price, this trip ticks the boxes. It’s also a solid choice if you’re short on time but want a taste of Fife’s best.

Summary of Strengths and Considerations

Strengths:

• Compact yet comprehensive itinerary covering Fife’s coastal villages, Falkland Palace, and St Andrews
• Small group size for a more intimate experience and better guide interaction
• Access to top sights like the Old Course, Falkland Palace, and Anstruther’s harbor
• Excellent value for money given the variety of sites and scenic drives
• Engaging guide who received praise for attentiveness and knowledge

Considerations:

• The tour does not include attraction entry fees, so budget accordingly
• Limited time at each stop means you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most
• Not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues
• Weather can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting and ending in Edinburgh at Waterloo Place.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned mini-coach and the services of a driver-guide. Attraction entry fees are not included.

Is there free time at St Andrews?
Yes, you get just under three hours to explore St Andrews, which is enough to visit key sights, do some shopping, or relax at a café.

Are meals provided?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, so plan to bring some cash or purchase food during your free time.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to walking and site conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Scotland’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain or shine.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a balanced, scenic, and historically rich day out from Edinburgh, this tour offers impressive value. It seamlessly combines coastal vistas, medieval architecture, and royal history, all in a convenient small-group setting. While it doesn’t include attraction fees, the overall experience of wandering through Fife’s charming villages and iconic sites makes it worthwhile.

This trip is particularly well-suited for those who love a relaxed pace, authentic villages, and a taste of Scotland’s royal and golfing legacies. If you’re after a memorable, manageable day trip that showcases the best of Fife, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Enjoy a day discovering the beauty and history of Scotland’s east coast—your camera, and sense of adventure, will thank you.

You can check if your dates are available here: