I will be in Glasgow for a conference and would like to add 5 days to explore. I've just decided this and have not yet had time to do much reading or research. Edinburgh seems to be breathtaking and am inclined to head that way.
I will be on my own and am comfortable exploring so no need for a tour - but perhaps a great guide.
Would welcome any thoughts for favorite places, great food, hotels with personality.
Thanks.

"<i>Would welcome any thoughts for favorite places, great food, hotels with personality.</i>"

Scotland is a big place -- do you mean just in Edinburgh or some other areas too? Spending all the time in Edinburgh would be great, but you could also spend a couple of days in the countryside.

If you are considering that, would you rent a car (not in Edinburgh but for any days between Glasgow and Edinburgh)?

Can't help much w/ hotels/food w/o your budget

Thanks - I had thought of taking a train from Glasgow. Most of the time would be in and around Edinburgh. I think a day on a bike in the countryside would be wonderful.
Budget is moderate to some splurge

"<i>Budget is moderate to some splurge</i>"

OK - you've been around here long enough to know that doesn't fly far

What is your budget - an actual number - per night for accommodations?

(Moderate/budget/splurge/the sky's the limit/modest - all mean different things to different people)

Howsaker

when are doing this?

Hi Howsaker...whereabout in Glasgow are you staying? If you have any questions, then do ask

I traveled from Glasgow to Inverness by train. Inverness was beautiful and I was sorry we only stayed there one night. Check out the post "Memorable Restaurants" There are good suggestions. I took several of them and loved all the places. My husband and I ate in lovely places, usually had a bottle of wine or beer and our average meals with starter and dessert was about 60 pounds. Since all our B&Bs had the full English breakfast, we didn't eat a big lunch so we could spend more on dinner. You can take a bus from Inverness to Aviemore and rent bikes and then take a train to Edinburgh.

I'm not sure what time of year you are going, but there are times when a biking trip in the Scottish countryside can be quite unpleasant due to wind and rain. I love Glasgow and would give it at least a couple of days. Edinburgh is great also, and completely different. With only 5 days, I would stick to those two, with a possible day trip to the Isle of Arran.