10 Things to Do in St Andrews, Scotland

Whether you are passing through on a Scotland road trip, or staying for a weekend getaway, St Andrews is one Scottish town to add to your bucket list. With its famous university (with alumni like the Prince and Princess of Wales), gorgeous coastline and world-famous title of the “home of golf,” this blog will detail what to see in St Andrews, Scotland.

Visiting St. Andrews, Scotland

St Andrews is a coastal town northeast of Edinburgh, on Scotland’s east coast. The town is on the east coast of Fife in Scotland, 10 miles (16 kilometres) southeast of Dundee and 30 miles (50 kilometres) northeast of Edinburgh.

Getting to St Andrews, Scotland

When visiting St Andrews, there are a number of options for getting to town. Located on the east coast of Scotland within Fife, St Andrews can be easily reached from several nearby cities via public transport, road and private transfers. International visitors have a choice of airport to fly into, all of which have good links with the town.

St Andrews Buses

St Andrews Bus Station is located in the middle of the town, it runs a regular bus service in the area and around Fife.

St Andrews Trains

St Andrews trains depart from nearby Leuchars train station 5 miles from St Andrews town centre.

St Andrews Airport

The closest airport to St Andrews is Dundee Airport. The nearest International airport is Edinburgh Airport, located approximately an hour away by car.

Getting to St Andrews from Edinburgh

Travelling to St Andrews from Edinburgh is a popular route that many travellers take, whether it be as part of a longer trip, or as a day trip. Getting to St Andrews is relatively easy from Edinburgh, with car, bus and train options readily available.

The car ride is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the bus route is slightly longer at 1 hour and 50 minutes. When I visited St Andrews, I opted for the car ride as it was the most convenient mode of transport for me at the time.

Things to See and Do in St Andrews, Scotland

1. Walk Around St Andrews University

While visiting St Andrews, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore St Andrews University.

The university was founded in 1413, making it Scotland’s oldest university. It is relatively easy to access parts of the university grounds and makes an awe-inspiring wander around this historical place. For those wanting a more hands-on experience, guided tours are available through the university.

2. Explore St Andrews Castle

On the coastline of St Andrews, you can’t miss the ruins of St Andrews Castle. The castle sits on a rocky cape overlooking the Castle Sands beach and is the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. Famously known for its 'bottle dungeon', one of the most infamous castle prisons in medieval Britain. While the site is ticketed, you can still get a decent view of the ruins from the outside.

3. Stroll Along the Coastline

Nothing beats a leisurely strong along the coastline of Scotland. If you’re looking for more than just a stroll, you can walk the Fife Coast Path from East Sands Beach. It’s a beautiful trail that spades along the sea and offers stunning views looking back at St Andrews.

4. Enjoy Gelato from Jannettas Gelateria

If your sweet tooth is anything like mine, you can’t resist stopping for an ice cream (yes, even in the middle of winter). I was lucky to stop by Jannettas Gelateria during my trip to St Andrews. Not only is the gelato hand-made and delicious, but the business has remained in the family since 1908. That means the family has been delicious gelato in St. Andrews for over a century! If that’s not enough, they won the Golden Cone Award in 2014, making them officially the best ice cream shop in Scotland. So you just know it’s going to be good!

5. Take a Peek at the Cafe Where Prince William and Catherine Dated

Best known as the cafe Prine William and Kate frequented during their time as students at St Andrews University, North Point Cafe is one not to miss for royal enthusiasts. Due to the popularity of this place, it can be extremely difficult to grab a table, so if you see an empty spot, do not hesitate! Northpoint Cafe is one of the most beloved cafes in St Andrews, amongst students and tourists alike.

6. Marvel at St Andrews Cathedral

What was once the largest church in Scotland, stands the remains of St Andrews Cathedral. With a museum housing a collection of medieval sculptures and relics found on site, its artifacts show how impressive this cathedral used to be. Make sure to climb St Rule’s Tower, which dates from the 12th century, to see amazing views across St Andrews and Fife.

7. Wander the Cobble Stone Streets

Sometimes my favourite thing to do in a new place is just wander around. With plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants around St Andrews, you’re sure to find something unexpected on your journey. The town isn’t that big which makes it a great place to explore!

8. Admire the Old Course

St Andrews is a bucket list for golfers from around the world, but you don’t have to be a gold connoisseur to appreciate the beauty of this place. The Old Course at St Andrews is considered to be the "home of golf" as the sport was first played on the links in the early 15th century. Although you can’t walk on it while people are golfing, there’s no golf on Sundays so feel free to explore the grounds more freely then. Nestled in the Links you’ll also find the famous Swilken Bridge, an important symbol in the golf world.

9. Gaze on the Beach

St Andrews in Scotland may not be the first place you picture for beaches, but this town surprisingly has a lot of them. In fact, there are 27 beaches in St Andrews. If you’re brave enough, you can swim in the ocean but sometimes my favourite thing is to just look out at the beach. Luckily there are plenty of paths, and benches to gaze upon one (or many) of St Andrews' beautiful beaches.

10. Scale the Top of the Pier Wall

University of St Andrews student or not, scaling the top of the pier wall is to St Andrews as Vegemite is to Australia. The Pier Walk is one of the oldest traditions at St Andrews and takes place before the start of a new semester. Simply climb the ladder and walk along the top of the pier wall, but be aware of weather and sea conditions for the safest climbing experience.

St Andrews Scotland Attractions

Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a few days, St Andrews is a perfect town to add to your Scotland vacation bucket list. With its rich history, preserved relics and royal pop culture, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do in St Andrews, Scotland.