Edinburgh is an ideal base for a Scottish adventure. As well as discovering all that the capital city has to offer, there are an abundance of day trips to the west coast, Highlands and beyond to enjoy.
But with so many choices, and tight itineraries, it can be hard to know where to begin!
To help you plan the perfect trip to Scotland, we sat down with Gemma, an award-winning travel blogger, and born-and-bred Scot behind Hiya Scotland, the home of stress-free Scotland planning.
Join her for local knowledge, top tips and inspiration for your next Scottish escapade…
Q- Hi Gemma! Can you tell us about yourself – who you are, what you do, and your previous projects
Hiya! I’m Gemma. A Fifer who loves to talk about travel: I’ve been publishing itineraries since 2014 on my websites, Two Scots Abroad and Everything Edinburgh, making me one of the OG Scotland travel bloggers!
I recently also launched a travel planning brand and service called Hiya Scotland. I’m proud to say I’ve been named one of Scotland’s top 100 women in tourism twice!
My typical Scotland travel style is road-tripping, stopping by stunning landscapes, doing fair-weather walks, and taking the occasional dip in frigidly cold water. However, I have a fear of jellyfish stings.
I’m also partial to afternoon tea; who doesn’t love wee bites on pretty plates and warm scones with jam and cream – or is that cream and jam?!
I like all seasons but adore autumn; layers, foliage photography, cosy pubs, and Halloween win me over.
Q – Tell us a little bit about Hiya Scotland? What inspired you to create it, who it’s aimed at, and what value it brings to people?
Since my first website, Two Scots Abroad, focuses mainly on the US and Europe and Everything Edinburgh is dedicated to Scotland’s capital, it felt like there was a missing
piece in my tourism marketing toolkit. Thus, Hiya Scotland was born. It creates a space where I can share my travel planning skills and lived experience with those seeking trip-planning support. I’ve spent time in 35 countries and 22 states and eloped to Austin, Texas, so I understand international travel challenges and woes.
It also gives me an excuse to connect with my home country more now that life is a tad slower in my (very) late 30s, opting for wild swims over wild nights out, although I still
like the occasional day sesh and disco.
Planners can read free articles aimed at first-time visitors on the Hiya Scotland website and join me and like-minded Scotland fans in the free Facebook community, where they can ask questions.
There is also a weekly newsletter covering packing, accommodation, and itineraries.
The Hiya Scotland Instagram and TikTok social media channels capture a wider audience, including repeat visitors and locals. They showcase things to do and the reality behind travelling in Scotland—breakdowns, midges, and all!
Q – Top tips for making the most of one day in Edinburgh
This is one of my favourite questions! After a big cooked Scottish breakfast at The Bonham, take the short hike up Calton Hill to get your Old and New Town bearings.
An Edinburgh bus tour is an efficient way to see attractions and features guided audio, ideal for those short on time who want to learn more about history and culture. If you are interested in a particular Edinburgh activity, just hop off and enjoy! Skip restaurant reservations and dine at Edinburgh Street Food or Bonnie & Wild. Both offer open-plan dining areas with various food vendors. This is relatively fast dining, so that you can get to the pub quicker.
Stretch the day into night at one of the Rose Street or Old Town pubs with live music.
Q – In your opinion, what is the coolest neighbourhood in Edinburgh?
Ooo, this is a tough question!
When I lived in Edinburgh, I would have said Leith for bar hopping, but now I’m a little older and drink less, I’d say Stockbridge for nice lunches and coffee spots.
It’s not a neighbourhood, but I think Broughton Street is underrated. It’s in a convenient location, and you can grab a pint at an “old man’s” pub and sip a cocktail in a beer garden.
Q – What’s your favourite town to visit close to Edinburgh?
Since I’m a Fifer, I’d best pick a town in The Kingdom!
Let’s go with Burntisland for its High Street and award-winning shops, which is no mean feat considering the death of the UK’s main street. Enjoy a day at the beach and some fish and chips before hopping on the train back to Edinburgh.
Gemma is the award-winning travel blogger and born-and-bred Scot behind Hiya Scotland, the home of stress-free Scotland planning. Join Gemma on her Scotland adventures at @hiyscotland on Instragam, TikTok and Facebook and meet fellow Scotland fans in the Scotland Tips – Plan Your Trip Facebook group.