small group tours from edinburgh

Tours from Edinburgh

Tours from edinburgh, the capital of scotland.

Is your home haunted? Ours is. The misty streets of Edinburgh whisper of scorned lovers, exiled heroes, and scandalous royals. Be careful you don't get lost in one of the many closes along the Royal Mile at night... you might just run into the ghost of villains like Deacon Brodie. But breathe easy during the day, when Edinburgh's history is on full display in the many museums, galleries, and on every street. And when you've had your fill (can you ever?), you can tour the rest of Scotland with us. So, combine the magic of the city with a trip to see the majesty of the Highlands , the Borders , or the islands of Scotland .

Planning Your Tour from Edinburgh

Many come to tour Scotland from Edinburgh with an idea in mind. To breathe in the scent of whisky at their favourite distillery. That they'll be the one to spot Nessie. That they might see an even more mythical creature: the Scottish sun. Our small-group tours from Edinburgh range from 1-17 days, so we'd advise you to narrow down your must-see list.

Travel Responsibly from Edinburgh

When touring Scotland from Edinburgh, you’ll be moved by breathtaking landscapes that we’re determined to protect. Through our responsible travel initiative , we do as much as we can to preserve locations for future generations to enjoy.

Did You Know?

- As you wander the gorgeous scenery of Princes Street Gardens, remember it used to be a loch... a cesspit for the city's sewage and a place to drown witches. Over 200 skeletons were discovered when it was drained in the late 18th century. - Back in the 1800s, Edinburgh had the nickname Auld Reekie, meaning "old smokey" due to the poor air quality.

Don't Miss Out

- The best view of the city is debatable: from the top of the ancient volcano Arthur's Seat or from the historically-intriguing Calton Hill. - Stockbridge and Dean's Village are Edinburgh's beautiful siblings, always getting attention. It's no wonder, with timber houses and cobbled streets alongside a flowing river. - Climb the monument dedicated to Scotland's most legendary writer, Sir Walter Scott.

9 Best Scotland Small Group Tours You Need To Book

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Scotland | 8

Scotland is a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers. 

Castles nestle in rugged landscapes, mirror-like lochs contain mysteries of monsters within their bowels, islands have some of the most dramatic geological formations in the world, plus so much more waiting to be discovered.  

If you’ve never been to Scotland, it may be overwhelming trying to plan a trip with so much to see and do. Enter small group Scotland tours – the best, most flexible to book and hassle-free way to explore the country. 

The beauty of a small group tour is that you can stick to the main travel route or go as intrepid as you like. It just comes down to the one you choose. 

So, with so many tour options out there, which one should you pick? 

To make it easier, I’ve rounded up the best small-group tours of Scotland. I’ve chosen each one based on my own experience, the reviews, the company and of course, the itinerary. 

All tours featured are eco-certified which means they have a positive impact on the environment and help you travel sustainably too. It’s a win-win!

Quick answer: best Scotland small group tours 

Highlights of scotland , scotland’s orkney islands .

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands 
• St Andrews & Fife Fishing Village
• Outlander Day Tour 
• Rosslyn Chapel & Hadrian’s Wall
• Isle of Skye 3-Day Tour
• Lewis, Harris and the Outer Hebrides
• Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train 

Why book a small group tour of Scotland 

Scotland is well-known for its rugged scenery and jaw-dropping views around every corner. If you’re planning a trip, it can be overwhelming to know where to start and what you want to include in your itinerary. 

Tours do the hard work for you by fitting in all the best highlights that guarantee a rewarding trip. 

Plus, you don’t need to worry about the logistics of transport or hotel bookings either. This is vital at a time when travel is so precarious and restrictions change at a moment’s notice. 

The best tours are flexible and have less complicated moving parts, giving you peace of mind if you do have to postpone or cancel. 

What’s more, doing a group tour of Scotland is a great way to get a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture as they’re run by local guides. 

You’ll get insider information and recommendations. Plus, activities and experiences you might not have come across otherwise. 

You’ll also get a chance to meet like-minded people. Small group tours rarely go above a dozen people to keep them intimate and personalised. 

Who knows, you could be swapping stories with your new best friend over a dram in a cosy pub in Orkney!

Read More: 11 of the Best Responsible Tour Operators in the World

Best small group tours of Scotland 

Here’s a round-up of some of the best Scotland small group tours that highlight the very best of the country from its rugged highlands, remote islands, scenic castles, mysterious lochs, history, fishing villages and more. 

Whether you have a week or a day, there’s a tour to suit every schedule. 

• Length: 7 days
• Start & Finish: Edinburgh – Glasgow
• Highlights: Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, Culloden Moor, Isle of Skye, Eileen Donan Castle, watching the Jacobite Steam Train cross Glenfinnan Viaduct. 

This Highlights of Scotland tour is exactly that, giving you a snapshot of the very best the country has to offer within a week. 

It starts in Edinburgh and you have the option to do guided or self-guided tours of the city before being whisked to Inverness in the heart of the highlands. 

From there, you’ll discover the mystery of “Nessie” on a boat cruise of Loch Ness and see Culloden Moor where the Jacobite Rising was defeated in 1746. 

Other exciting highlights of the tour include the Isle of Skye, the chance to see the famous Jacobite Steam Train cross Glenfinnan Viaduct and a whisky tasting at Ben Nevis Distillery before finishing in Glasgow, the cultural capital of Scotland. 

This guided tour is best for those who are short on time but want to see as many Scotland highlights as possible. You travel mainly by private vehicle with an average group of 12 people and a friendly local guide with you the whole way. 

I recommend this tour because it’s a great balance of comfort and adventure. You stay in cosy accommodation but you also get to explore the wilds of the Scottish Highlands through hikes, kayaking, cycling and even visiting a reindeer farm (all optional)! 

That’s exactly what the best Scottish tours should be like. 

Photo credit: Canva.com

• Length: 5 days 
• Start & Finish: Inverness
• Highlights: Neolithic town of Skara Brae, coastal walk on Shapinsay Island, live music and whisky tastings.

This five-star rated tour takes you up to the Orkney Islands on the northeastern coast of Scotland. 

Perfect for ancient history lovers, the tour starts in Inverness where you’ll meet your local guide before taking a scenic train journey to Thurso, transfer to the port of Scrabster and catch the ferry to Kirkwall in Orkney. 

Here, you’ll spend the next 4 days exploring the Neolithic Skara Brae, the historic Ring of Brodgar and 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral. You also have plenty of coastal sea walks, whisky tastings, live music and pubs galore against a wild, scenic backdrop. 

The maximum number of people on this tour is 12 and you get around using a mix of private and public transport. Your group leader stays with you for the duration of the trip too. 

I recommend this tour because it gives you the chance to explore lesser-travelled areas of Scotland. 

Although you’re with a group, you can easily split off and do your own thing too. Plus the use of public transport allows you to experience the local culture up close!

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 12 hours approx.
• Start & Finish: Edinburgh
• Highlights: Loch Ness boat trip, Glencoe and Cairngorms National Park. 

If you’re looking for a small group tour of Scotland that covers the best of the highlands in a day then this one’s for you. 

During this one-day excursion, you’ll head straight up to Glencoe passing Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument and Linlithgow Palace along the way.

You’ll then journey onwards to Fort William, soon reaching the shores of Loch Ness where you can take a boat cruise on the water. After lunch, it’s another drive to the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park before heading back to Edinburgh. 

The small group tour has a maximum of 16 travellers and transport is a comfy Mercedes minibus. Your driver guide will also give you some insightful commentary during your trip. 

My favourite thing about this tour is that even though it’s a busy schedule there are plenty of breaks along the way so you’re not constantly on the road. 

Departing from Edinburgh, it also brings some of the most remote Scottish landmarks within reach. Don’t just take my word for it, it’s highly rated too!

St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

• Length: 8.5 hours approx. 
• Highlights: The Forth Road Bridge, fishing villages of East Neuk, St Andrews, Falkland Palace and Gardens. 

If you like the idea of exploring more of the east coast (Scotland’s west coast already gets a LOT of love), then this St Andrews & Fishing Villages of Fife tour is the perfect option for you. 

The day trip starts by crossing over the famous Forth Bridge where you’ll get a chance to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Forth Rail Bridge. 

Journey onwards to Fife, a peninsula bordered by the North Sea where you’ll stop to explore the traditional fishing village of Anstruther. 

Soon, you’ll arrive in St Andrews where you’ll have free time to enjoy its 1000 years of history and its accolade as the birthplace of golf! 

The last stop on the tour is Falkland Palace and Garden, a gorgeous fairytale palace that was once home to the Stewarts (Scottish Royal Family). Explore the palace or the town of Falkland, an Outlander filming location!

The tour has a maximum of 16 travellers and you travel in comfort in a Mercedes minibus. The tour guides are highly knowledgeable and the local area too. 

It’s a fantastic way to get a snapshot of Scotland’s east coast!

Discover more Edinburgh day trips here.

Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh

• Length: 8-10 hours approx. 
• Start & Finish: Glasgow or Edinburgh depending on the option picked 
• Highlights: Filming locations from Outlander including Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Blackness Castle (Fort William), Culross (Crainsmuir) and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch). 

Are you an Outlander lover? If so, this tour is a must-do! 

Follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie on this full-day tour of all the major filming locations of this television series. 

The tour starts with a drive to Doune Castle which you might recognise as Castle Leoch and Winterfell from Game of Thrones (quite the film star!). 

Then you’ll journey to Falkland, the filming location for Inverness in the 1940s before arriving at Midhope Castle (Lallybroch).

Look out for the Royal Burgh of Culross too which was the filming location for Crainesmuir where Geillis Duncan lived. 

The last stop is the imposing Blackness Castle used in some of the scenes for Fort William and Wentworth. 

I recommend this five-star rated tour because it’s perfect for Outlander buffs but those who are keen to discover Scottish history and culture will love it too. 

Enjoy dramatic countryside views, a dram or two of whisky and a knowledgeable local guide giving you all the insider info on Outlander. 

This small group guided Scotland tour is a private minibus with max 8 people so it’s nice and intimate. You have the flexibility to start from either Glasgow or Edinburgh too. 

Editor’s tip: You can also do a two-day Outlander tour that covers the Clava Cairns (the inspiration behind Craigh na Dun) and Culloden Moor. Check it out here.

Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian’s Wall Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 10.5 hours approx. 
• Highlights: Rosslyn Chapel (featured in the Da Vinci Code), Melrose Abbey, English border and Hadrian’s Wall. 

No trip to Scotland is complete without visiting the borders. This small group day tour takes you there and beyond to Northern England where you can walk part of the way along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hadrian’s Wall. 

Ideal for history lovers, this small group tour combines history with architectural intrigue against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish and English border. 

The first stop is the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel which gained international fame after featuring in The Da Vinci Code. 

Next, it’s a visit to the ruins of Melrose Abbey wherein lies the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce’s heart. Then it’s time to cross the English border to reach Housesteads Fort, the best-preserved section of Hadrian’s Wall which was built 1900 years ago by the Roman Empire. 

The last stop is Jedburgh, a pretty market town in the Scottish Borders as you head back north to Edinburgh. 

I recommend this tour because it’s got a bit of everything – including two countries! Although it’s a bestseller, tour groups are kept to 16 people max so you can make the most of your knowledgeable guide. 

Read More: No-Fly Holidays: The BEST Train from London to Edinburgh (Review)

Isle of Skye Small Group 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 3 days
• Highlights: Glencoe, 5 Sisters of Kintail, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye and Loch Ness. 

If you’re keen to see the highlights of Scotland but you don’t have a whole week to spare, this 3-day tour is a great choice. It gives you a snapshot of the highlands and islands. 

On the first day, you’ll go on a detour through the highlands to the Isle of Skye – passing Doune Castle, Glencoe and Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis (Scotland’s highest peak). 

Then it’s a truly breathtaking drive ahead as you take the ‘road to the isles’ through the 5 Sisters of Kintail (my nose was practically glued to the window in awe!). 

The second day is all about Skye – as it should be! There’s some flexibility here but the Trotternish Peninsula is not to be missed. 

Home of the Quiraing, a famous landslide, it’s a jaw-dropping sight. Neist Point and the Old Man of Storr are worth seeing too. Make the most of your private vehicle because you won’t be able to see it all on foot!

On the third day, you’ll head back to the mainland to Loch Ness for lunch, and pass Loch Laggan, Dalwhinnie and Blair Castle before returning to Edinburgh. 

If you want to make the most of your time in Scotland but you only have a few days I highly recommend doing this tour. 

You get to see the very best of the Highlands and Skye. It’s just 16 people max so you don’t feel too crowded either. What’s more, the tour is operated by Rabbies, one of the best Scottish tour companies to book. 

Editor’s tip: If you would rather keep the tour to one day instead of three, this one is a great alternative.

Lewis, Harris, and Outer Hebrides Tour from Inverness

• Highlights: Ferry to the Isle of Lewis, Callanish Standing Stones, white sand beaches of Luskentyre on the Isle of Harris. 

Did you know Scotland is home to some of the best beaches in Europe? I’m talking soft white sand and striped turquoise waters that would almost make you think you’ve stumbled across a portal to the Caribbean. The only giveaway is the lack of palm trees… and the weather. 

If you’re keen to see the beauty of these beaches first-hand, this 3-day island hopping tour in the Outer Hebrides is a must! 

Starting from Inverness, you’ll head to Ullapool where you’ll catch the ferry to Stornoway on Lewis. Look out for dolphins and whales!  

On day two, you’ll venture to Harris with its striking mountains and unspoilt beaches. The one you’ve been waiting for is Luskentyre Beach which looks like the Caribbean on a good day. 

On day three, the tour will take you to the Lewis parish of Uig, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where Vikings settled more than 800 years ago. Then you’ll visit the Callanish Standing Stones, 5000-year-old megaliths that are said to be once giants. 

With just 16 people maximum, this tour offers an amazing way to explore some of Scotland’s most remote and breathtaking islands on the west coast. It’s ideal for those who love wildlife, rugged isles, ancient history and beaches!

Find out more about how to get to Invernes s by road, rail or air.

Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train 3-Day Highland Tour

• Highlights: Loch Ness, Isle of Skye, riding on the Jacobite Steam Train (from May – October) and Culloden Moor. 

If riding the Jacobite Steam Train is on your Scotland bucket list then this tour is a must. Similar to the other 3-day tour above, it focuses on the key highlights of the Highlands and Isle of Skye. 

The main difference is the third day. Instead of driving from Skye back to the mainland, you go down to the south of the island and take a short ferry ride to the fishing village of Mallaig (look out for dolphins on your way. One loved following our ferry!). 

From Mallaig, you have the option to ride the Jacobite Steam Train to Fort William and enjoy spectacular views as the train crosses Glenfinnan Viaduct (if you want a photo op, sit or stand on the right – trust me!). The train slows down over the viaduct so you can soak it all in. 

Once you arrive in Fort William , you follow the spectacular rugged route south through Glencoe and Rannoch Moor before reaching Edinburgh in the early evening. 

This tour is perfect for those who want to get all the highlights of Scotland – including the steam train – in just three days. 

Just make sure to book it between May and October otherwise the steam train is unavailable. It’s also important to book it in advance as tickets for the steam train sell out quickly!

Editor’s tip: Prefer to do Skye in a day? Do this tour instead!

What about self-guided tours? 

Want to have the structure and ease of a tour with the flexibility of travelling solo? I recommend Byway Travel. 

The travel company specialises in building bespoke no-fly travel itineraries based on your interests and budget. 

Although it’s a self-guided trip, Byway is with you every step of the way via Whatsapp and handles all the logistics so you can enjoy the travel part. It’s a great alternative to doing a guided tour of Scotland!

Looking for more Scotland travel tips? These articles can help!

• 10 Days in the Scottish Highlands: The Ultimate Itinerary
• How To Get To Glenfinnan Viaduct From Fort William (A Complete Guide For 2024)
• An Epic Rewilding Experience in Scotland with SCOTLAND: The Big Picture
• 15 Most Unique Eco-Friendly Getaways in Scotland
• Top 3 Reasons to Add Islay to Your Scotland Itinerary
• 20 Best Things To Do On The Isle Of Mull
• 12 BEST Day Hikes In Scotland You Need To Experience
• The Best Time To Visit The Isle Of Skye For The Perfect Trip

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About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

Such a thorough and helpful overview! Which ones to choose? They all look so great. I would probably start with the Outer Hebrides tour having read and really enjoyed Peter May’s Lewis Trilogy

Thank you! The Outer Hebrides tour is a great choice!

Great selection of tours! I would pick the ones visiting Isle of Skye, and Jacobite train, and would be nice to go on Outlander tour too.

Thank you! All good choices 🙂

Scotland might be my favorite country so all of these tours look amazing! I never got the chance to visit any of the islands so I’d love to go on the Orkney and Isle of Skye tours! As a solo traveler, tours are a great way to meet people and not feel alone.

I agree! Plus transport and accommodation sorted. Definitely worth heading back to see the islands!

Really useful, I don’t drive which restricts some of the places I can visit in Scotland. Will have to keep some of these in mind next time I’m up there 🙂

Me too! Yes, do.

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Hello, I’m Francesca

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Last Updated on 31/12/2023

• Tour 1 – Loch Ness & the Highlands
• Tour 2 – Stirling Castle, Highland Lochs & Whisky
• Tour 3 – Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Hadrian’s Wall
• Tour 4 – The Best of Scotland in a Day
• Tour 5 – The Viking Coast & Alnwick Castle
• Tour 6 – St Andrews & the Kingdom of Fife
• 2 Day Tour – Inverness & the Highlands
• 3 Day Tour – Isle of Skye & the Highlands
• 5 Day Tour – The Grand Tour of Scotland
• View All Private Tours
• 1 Day Tour – The Best of Scotland in a Day
• 1 Day Tour – Loch Ness & the Highlands
• 2 Day Tour – Inverness & the Highlands
• 3 Day Tour – The Isle of Skye & the Highlands
• 4 Day Tour – Inverness & the Isle of Skye
• 5 Day Tour – The Grand Tour of Scotland
• 6 Day Tour – The Outer Hebrides & Isle of Skye
• 7 Day Tour – The Complete Tour of Scotland
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• Our Story – The Wee Red Bus
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• Sustainable Tourism

VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION – All group tours depart from Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BQ (opposite Howie’s Restaurant) .

Heart of Scotland Tours - small group bus tours in Scotland

Very small groups of around 12 passengers.

For over 20 years we’ve been carefully designing 5-star, award-winning guided tours which include famous sights and hidden gems that most tourists never see. Travelling safely in a very small group of around 12 passengers means:

• More time off the Wee Red Bus and extra photo stops
• Getting off the beaten track and away from the crowds
• Relaxing in plenty of personal space
• Simple cancellation/rebooking policy – change or cancel up to 24 hours before departure (day tours) and up to 8 days before departure (overnight tours)

Whether it’s a private tour with family and friends or one of our ever-popular scheduled tours, we’re here to help. Our 2024 small group Scotland tours are now available to book .

Tour 1 Loch Ness & the Highlands bus tour from Edinburgh

Tour 2 Stirling Castle, Highland Lochs & Whisky bus tour from Edinburgh

Tour 3 Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Hadrian's Wall bus tour from Edinburgh

Tour 4 The Best of Scotland in a Day

Tour 5 The Viking Coast & Alnwick Castle

Tour 6 St Andrews & the Kingdom of Fife

Overnight tours.

2 Day Tour Inverness & the Highlands

3 Day Tour Isle of Skye & the Highlands

5 Day Tour The Grand Tour of Scotland

Private tours.

Private Tours of Scotland

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Tours from Scotland’s Capital city 

If you are looking to explore outside the city on your visit to Edinburgh, then we have a great choice of day trips and 3, 4, & 6 day tours from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands

Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations in the UK. Known as the ‘Athens of the North’, Scotland’s cosmopolitan capital is the world’s leading ‘Festival City’.

Edinburgh Castle towers over the city’s old town and medieval streets. This bustling area is packed with people, historic buildings, narrow alleys, and hidden courtyards.

Why travel with us?

Eco 3 Air Purifiers Eliminates viruses

Guaranteed Departures You Book – You Go

Small Group Tours Maximum 16 Persons

Eco Friendly Tours Supporting Local Communities

Prices From: £ 63.00

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel 1 Day Tour

A stunning day tour from Edinburgh that takes you to locations from movies such as Skyfall, Highlander and Harry Potter. We’ll travel into the Highlands, exploring Glencoe before arriving at Glenfinnan. Here you can walk up to the best viewpoints to capture the Jacobite Steam Train crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Find out more

Prices From: £ 61.00

Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands 1 Day Tour

Our Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands tour is one of our most popular day tours. The journey from Edinburgh covers a lot of the Scottish Highlands in one day. Stunning Glencoe is simply breathtaking and you’ll have the opportunity to spot the mythical Loch Ness Monster with a cruise on Loch Ness.

Prices From: £ 57.00

Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles 1 Day Tour

Our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles tour will take you to some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. Shimmering lochs, breathtaking mountain scenery & historic castles. From quaint Inveraray to the pretty conservation village of Luss, enjoy the incredible views and settings of the Scottish Highlands.

Prices From: £ 51.00

St Andrews and Falkland Palace 1 Day Tour

Explore St Andrews and see the Old Course, the most famous golf course in the world. Travel along Fife's famous 'Coastal Road' bringing us through several of the area's most stunning fishing villages. Wander through the village of Falkland which stood in for Inverness in the Outlander tv series.

Loch Lomond National Park, Stirling Castle & the Kelpies 1 Day Tour

Visit grand Stirling Castle one of the most important castles in Scottish history. Enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of Loch Lomond with a cruise on one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs. Capture some photos of the Kelpies, these magnificent 30-metre-high horse heads tower above the Forth and Clyde Canal.

Prices From: £ 199.00

Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness 3 Day Tour

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

Prices From: £ 259.00

Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness 4 Day Tour

Sit back and fully absorb the ever-changing colours and textures of the isle of Skye on this four day tour. Get up close to the curious geology of the Trotternish Peninsula and feel the magic at Fairy Glen. You’ll see why romantic Skye was voted the world’s 4th best island destination by National Geographic.

Prices From: £ 309.00

Isles of Mull, Iona & The Highlands 4 Day Tour

Discover Scotland’s wild west coast and the outstanding islands of Mull, Iona and their sister isles. Mull is perfect for nature lovers with the chance to spot sea eagles, dolphins and even whales. Visit Iona Abbey and explore Fingal’s Cave on Staffa. Enjoy a walk on one of Scotland’s most spectacular beaches.

Prices From: £ 359.00

Inverness, the Northwest Highlands & the Isle of Skye 5 Day Tour

Experience the remote, wild and rugged northwest highlands on this spectacular 5 day tour. Lonely Planet has named the far north of Scotland as one of its "Best in Travel" destinations for 2024. Deep gorges, waterfalls and the most spectacular mountain scenery in Britain. Walk along one of the best beaches on the North Coast 500 route.

Prices From: £ 509.00

Isles of Mull, Iona & Skye 6 Day Island Hopping Tour

Explore the islands of Mull, Iona, Ulva, Staffa & Skye. Enjoy the wildlife on the Isle of Mull and the peace and serenity on the tiny sacred island of Iona. Get off the beaten track on the small community island of Ulva and the uninhabited island of Staffa before visiting the spectacular Isle of Skye.

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Scotland Small Group Tours

Small group tours of scotland.

What better way to explore the dramatic natural beauty and distinct culture of Scotland and the Scottish Highlands than on an adeo Travel boutique small group tour? Travelling aboard a luxury mini-coach in the company of a group capped at just 14 guests, you’ll enjoy an intimate touring experience worthy of this beguiling destination.

Embark on an enchanting Scottish journey taking you from the glorious capital city of Edinburgh in the South, from coast to coast through the barren landscapes of the Highlands to discover Inverness, Glencoe and the remote Isle of Skye. Every step of the way Scotland boasts dramatic scenery, captivating historic sites and an utterly unique heritage and culture, just waiting to be experienced.

Your adeo Travel small group tour of Scotland will see you travel in the comfort of a luxury mini-coach, ideal for traversing the winding upland passes and narrow lanes of Highland towns that larger coaches struggle to reach.  Your professional driver will not only use his local knowledge to take care of all of the navigation, travel logistics and negotiation of Scotland’s iconic country roads but will also share his local wisdom, stories and social insight of the destination he knows and loves, his homeland – Scotland!

Striking a finely balanced itinerary, your adeo Travel small group tour of Scotland will offer a combination of pre-planned visits, iconic attractions, hidden gems, scheduled local experiences and plenty of independent free-time in selected destinations to enable you to immerse yourself in the Scottish experience.

And with adeo Travel’s intrinsic commitment to providing an authentic and immersive travel experience, we’re also careful to choose overnight lodging to reflect your touring destination. Our Scotland small group tours stay in a host of unique, charming, privately-owned and typically Scottish lodgings wherever possible. Full Scottish breakfast is offered each morning and we host dinners of hearty Scottish fare on selected evenings throughout your trip.

An adeo Travel small group tour offers the perfect way to explore Scotland for a authentic and immersive Scottish travel experience. See our curated itineraries below to tour Scotland alone or combine with other tours to discover more of Britain.

  Key features

• Comprehensive and wide-reaching Scottish itineraries
• Touring group-size of no more than 14 guests
• The services of your experienced local driver-guide
• Included attraction and experience admissions
• Overnight lodging in characterful Scottish accommodation
• Full cooked Scottish breakfast each morning and inclusive evening dining on selected days
• A comprehensive sightseeing program and plenty of independent free-time
• A dedicated travel consultant to plan your trip and a comprehensive travel documents pack prior to travel.

  Tour benefits

• Experience the highlights and hidden gems of Scotland
• An intimate and immersive Scottish touring experience
• Explore the Highland roads and villages that some larger coaches can't reach
• Gain local insight of Scotland’s history and heritage from your passionate driver-guide
• Enjoy included meals on selected evenings and free-nights to dine independently
• Experience Scotland’s warm and welcoming hospitality in quaint and characterful hotels
• Hassle-free planning with your own dedicated Scotland expert.

A small group tour of Britain – discover what makes Britain Great on this small group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the peaceful coasts and mountains of Wales, through rustic landscapes of rural England and north in to remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, visit Britain’s quaint villages and heritage cities and enjoy a host of local experiences from steam train rides through the English countryside to whisky tasting in the Highlands.  In the company of your local guides, the Great British Journey is the ultimate way to explore Britain.

A Small Group Tour of England and Scotland – From the southernmost tip of the Cornish Peninsular to the remote wilderness of the Isle of Skye, enjoy an epic small-group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England and Scotland. Discover the quaint fishing towns of Cornwall, the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds, the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, and finally the barren moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way we’ll visit the heritage cities of Bath, Oxford, York, Chester, Inverness and Edinburgh, and experience regional food, drink and hospitality. South Coast to Skye is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and panoramas of England and Scotland.

A small group tour of England and Scotland – Beauty of Britain is an epic journey exploring the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England and Scotland. We’ll pass from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, through the rustic landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District to the barren wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Our journey is punctuated with visits to Britain’s heritage cities, including Oxford, York and Edinburgh, and we’ll enjoy a host of local experiences including a countryside steam train ride, ancient castle visits, traditional afternoon tea and a whisky distillery tour. The true beauty of Britain is waiting to be discovered.

A small group tour of Scotland – Secrets of Scotland takes you on an epic journey through Scotland’s dramatic landscapes. We’ll discover the history, heritage and natural beauty of this enchanting nation as we pass from historic Edinburgh in to the remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands; along the way we’ll spot unique wildlife, ancient castle ruins, shimmering lochs and deep glens. With highlights including Royal Deeside, Inverness, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe you’ll come away having uncovered the many secrets of Scotland.

A small group tour of Scotland and Wales – explore the outer reaches of Britain from the glorious landscapes of the Pembrokeshire coast to the wilds of the Scottish Highlands. Two of Britain’s lesser explored regions, Wales and Scotland offer a perfect marriage boasting strikingly unique cultures but sharing a common appeal in their undiscovered natural beauty. Your journey will take you from the nations’ capital cities in Cardiff and Edinburgh to the mountains of Snowdonia and the remote seascapes of the Isle of Skye. Along the way you’ll ride steam trains, wander the flagstones of ancient castles and sample local fare.

A small group tour of Britain – Aspects of Britain offers a leisurely tour through England, Scotland and Wales for an engaging insight in to British culture and countryside. Your journey will take you through the rural regions of the South Wales valleys, the Cotswolds, the North Yorkshire Moors and the Scottish Lowlands to the heritage cities of Cardiff, York and Glasgow. Along the way we’ll visit medieval castles, roam Shakespeare country, wonder at stately homes, discover ancient abbey ruins and see shimmering Scottish lochs. The highlights of Britain are waiting to be explored.

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Stories That Matter

Tours for Locals and Visitors

What is the Edinburgh Tour Box?

We are a small collective of local tour guides eager share the many stories of Edinburgh, with locals and visitors alike! Whether you’re a life-long local or new arrival to the city, we offer a variety of in-depth city walking tours covering what we think are some of the most interesting aspects of Edinburgh’s history.

Our wee building is an original Edinburgh Police Box. These buildings were designed to act as miniature police stations, and even served as drunk tanks and prison cells! Our police box is located on the West End of Princes St, very close to Princes St Gardens.

We start our Small Group Walking Tours from here, come and say hi!

Edinburgh Small Group Walking Tours

10am – 6pm, edinburgh scotland.

One Day Tours from Edinburgh - Tours around Scotland | Go Scotland Tours

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Loch Ness, Glencoe and Scottish Highlands Day Tour Experience from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1100
• Tour theme: Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) ,
• Duration: 1 Day - 11 hours 30min approx.
• Starts from: Edinburgh

Experience the best 1 day tour of Scotland, we go to the famous Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands, see the rich mountain scenery as you tour on the Nessie Bus...

Loch Lomond, Whisky, and Stirling Castle Tour Experience from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1102
• Tour theme: Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) , Whisky Tours ,
• Duration: 1 Day - 9 hours 30min approx.

Day Tour to Loch Lomond Tour and Stirling Castle from Edinburgh, including a Whisky stop at Clydeside Distillery. Castles, lochs and whisky, a perfect day out.

Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling and Dunfermline Tour Experience from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1107
• Duration: 1 Day - 8 hours 30min approx.

Day tour from Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel from the Da Vinci Code, Holy Grail, also Stirling Castle, and Bannockburn, Robert the Bruce, Dunfermline, and more....

St. Andrews, Falkland Palace and Fishing Villages Tour Experience from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1106
• Tour theme: Whisky Tours , Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) ,
• Duration: 1 Day - 9 hours approx.

Day tour from Edinburgh to St. Andrews, home of golf, and the Kingdom of Fife, Falkland Palace, and Kingbarns Whisky Distillery, St. Andrews Tour Edinburgh...

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland and Scottish Borders Tour

• Tour ID: 1185
• Tour theme: Luxury Coach Tours , Edinburgh Day Tours (Group Tours) ,

Scenic coastal tour into the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria in North-East England, Alnwick Castle from Harry Potter, and the historic Flodden Battlefield....

The Ultimate Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1533
• Duration: 1 day - 10 hours approx

Whisky tour departing from Edinburgh going to Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery for Whisky and Chocolate tasting then to Deanston Distillery, Doune Castle, Loch Leven

The Outlander Palaces Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1526

Outlander Day Tour to Midhope Castle aka Lallybroch Castle, Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Culross, Hopetoun House. Tour of sets of the famous TV series..

Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Tour from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1590
• Duration: 1 Day - 12 hour approx.

Glenfinnan tour begins in Edinburgh. Glencoe features in James Bond Skyfall, and is the backdrop to Harry Potter. main attraction of the day; Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the Harry Potter Steam Train.

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Whisky Day Tours from Edinburgh

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Private, bespoke tour of Scotland

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3 day Highlands, Skye and Loch Ness

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Small group tours Edinburgh

When visiting Scotland, it’s always vital to ensure that you use your time wisely and see everything you want to see. Whether you’re in Scotland for under or over a week, we as a team of Scotland tourers will be committed to give you a tour worth cherishing for the rest of your life. Because we complete our variety of tours in Scotland on a daily basis, we know of all the best sites to see. If you’re looking for small group tours Edinburgh departure, then we will be more than happy to help here at Heartland Travel.

There are many cases where people regret not experiencing certain parts of a country whilst on vacation, and we do not want this to be the case when you come to Scotland. With our wide selection of tours in Scotland , you can expect to see the best parts of our beautiful country. When we take people on our tours, we rely on our beautiful little luxury mini-coach to chauffeur us across the country, educating our guests about each iconic location we stop off at.

Our most popular minibus tour of Scotland is our 4 day Scotland tour, which as the name suggests, provides you with a 4-day tour. Setting off from Edinburgh , you’ll be able to see Stirling Castle, Glencoe , the part of the Highlands which were used in the Harry Potter film ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’, Isle of Skye , Skye Bridge, Donan Castle and more.

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Scotland Tours & Trips from Edinburgh

Find your perfect adventure! We have 89 tours of Scotland that start in Edinburgh, Scotland. The most popular month is September, and tour lengths range between 2 and 13 days.

89 Scotland tour packages from Edinburgh with 5,098 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Classic Scotland Self Drive

Tour operators were quick to answer any questions, hotels booked through tour operator were nice accommodations, rental car agency was friendly and car quality good. Would recommend this tour company and use again in the future.

Country Roads of Scotland (Small Groups, 9 Days)

Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides

I would have liked to stop at glencoe to walk around for a couple of hours. The tour was fast paced allowing us to see many things in a short period of time

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

3 Day Loch Ness & Skye

I had a great trip with MacBackpackers! Tim was a fabulous guide and full of information about Scottish history. Would recommend if you are coming to explore Scotland.

It was a good trip seeing a lot of Scotland and the tour guide was very good. However a few things to improve are: There were too many people in the group so didn't really interact with the rest of them and the language difference didn't help either as I didn't realise that most of them spoke Spanish so the guide had to say everything in 2 languages. There was confusion on the trip as in the main Itinerary, it only mentioned breakfast included but when you looked into individual days it said dinner included, so didn't match. I feel that at least 1 dinner would have been nice to help with interacting with the group. I was a bit disappointed that the distillery changed days instead of the 1st day as I would have liked a bit more time to see Edinburgh especially as it was nice that day. Also the day in Edinburgh shouldn't be on a Saturday as it was too busy. A few places I felt rushed like Fort William as we only had time to get out, see it a bit, have a hot drink and toilet and then go but to be honest there wasn't much there so could have gone anywhere really. It was nice to see the castles except it would have good if Edinburgh castle had been included, but also maybe see something else for a variety like a mine or cave, or we did pass a cable car and that would have been nice. But overall it was a nice trip seeing places around Scotland in the time.

Highlights of Scotland

This was my second G Adventures tour and it proved to be as enjoyable as the first one, which was the main reason my wife and I booked it. The small size of the tour group and the variety of people made it all the better. The tour offered a good balance between structured visits of major attractions and free time to explore on our own. I would not hesitate to recommend a G Adventures tour to anyone seeking a guided travel experience in the company of other like-minded travelers.

2-day Outlander Tour (Small Group)

Jamie was a wonderful tour guide. I believe some stops could be longer in the scenic areas up north, but either way it was still amazing.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

Not too much, not too little, Goldilocks would take this tour because it is Just Right. Seriously, you see and experience so much during this tour, the pace is not overwhelming so you can soak it all in. I was a first-time solo traveller on this trip, and met so many awesome people, including our phenomenal tour guide, Branka! If you think this trip might be for you, I bet it is, and you will love it!

Orkney & The Far North

The best tour I've ever been on. We saw everything on my wish list and then some. The guides were very knowledgeable. Accomadations were excellent. I especially enjoyed the B&B's as I have never stayed at one before.

Country Roads of Scotland (Classic, 9 Days)

We had a fantastic and thorough tour experience of Country Roads of Scotland with our Tour Director Greg Colgin. He gave us a holiday to always look back on with very fond memories. In nine days on the road we saw more and did more than expected. The Optional Experiences amped up the energy required but thank good goodness we bought in. Greg has a strong knowledge of Scotland's history, other points of interest and proudly talked about the stunning countryside. We appreciated hearing about Scotland's music artists and movie and book titles we might find later. Greg has a nice manner, is very energized and engages easily with others. Les our coach driver was very responsible behind the wheel and the coach vehicle was extremely comfortable. Would do it again!

• Sightseeing

Scotland's Highlands Islands and Cities (13 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hot Tam!: Scotland By Design

4 Day Islay Whisky Tour

Great Tour and fabulous Guide that you don't recognise in the guide selection. Shame the survey is not as great as Brian Sharp is. He went out of his way to make us welcome and ensured we were always happy. He has a great depth of knowledge which he shared in describing the places we visited. He maintained a comfortable schedule and made sure we were always on time for each visit. You couldn't get a better person in my view.

North Scotland, Loch Ness & Orkney - 5 days

I had 2 issues: 1- the tour states that 4nights accomodation were included, however when I got to the last night of accomodation at Lochview Guest House, the manager made me pay £120. She would not provide a receipt since she said that would go to Rabbies Tour group. I will need £120 reimbursement. 2- my emails stated that the operator was “on the go” but my tour operator was actually Rabbies. This made it confusing when I was waiting for the bus initially.

4-Day Islay & the Whisky Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh Including Admissions

Fantastic time! Billy did a great job of getting us to the distilleries without making us feel rushed. Plus, he was an excellent guide. I will recommend this to everyone!

What people love about Scotland Tours from Edinburgh

Overall it was a very nice trip, I think it was well laid out for traveling

Setting up the trip and tracking costs, payments and options were all done very well through the website. Customer service also quickly answered any questions. The trip experience was excellent.

Tours starting from Edinburgh

• Edinburgh to Edinburgh tours (67)
• Edinburgh to Glasgow tours (20)
• Family from Edinburgh (63)
• In-depth Cultural from Edinburgh (56)
• Explorer from Edinburgh (37)
• Coach / Bus from Edinburgh (26)
• Active from Edinburgh (6)
• Private from Edinburgh (5)
• Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Small Group Tours of Scotland with Brighter Things

It’s Your Time.

Have you been waiting for the perfect time, amount of money or person to start traveling?

The time is now. Join a small group of travelers as we go to Scotland, on October 21, 2024.

If you’ve been considering solo travel, this is the perfect opportunity to try it out with a bit of a safety net (and someone who will take your picture, saving you from the dreaded selfie stick). There’s no single supplement here!

Or grab your bestie and let me help you experience scotland at its finest.

Over the course of five nights in Edinburgh, we’ll hit the major sites while giving you plenty of time to explore on your own.

Then we’ll hand the reigns over to Rabbie’s Tours as we take two private day trips out into the countryside. The first will feature Loch Ness and the Highlands and the second one will be castles and towns used as filming locations for Outlander, Monty Python, Outlaw King, and Mary Queen of Scots to name a few.

We’ll have an afternoon tea in Edinburgh Castle, snap pics at all the iconic locations and maybe sample a dram or two of the finest Scotch whisky.

If that’s not enough, we’ll head north to Inverness for two nights as I take you on another private tour out into the otherworldly, Isle of Skye!

Day trips to see the rest of the country

Outlander super fan? Looking to find Nessie? We’ve got you covered as we head out on two private tours with Rabbie’s Tours.

Edinburgh Sightseeing

I’ll spend two days showing you one of my favorite cities in the world. See Edinburgh from the top of Arthur’s Seat at sunrise and have an Instagram-worthy photo tour of Edinburgh.

Incredible meals

A full hot Scottish breakfast is included daily in addition to an afternoon tea and two multi-course dinners at some of Edinburgh’s finest restaurants.

Hey! Are these tour dates not working out for you? Let me create a custom trip itinerary just for you so you can go whenever is right for you! To get started on your dream vacation that is catered to your travel style and preferences, fill out the contact form below and you’ll hear from me within 24-48 hours!

“To celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary, we wanted to take a trip to Scotland.  Being novice international travelers, however, we didn’t have much of an idea of where to start.  Fortunately, Brighter Things came to our rescue! 

Jessy handled everything from start to finish.  she took care of flight and hotel reservations, established a full itinerary of the points of interest that were on our list of things to see, offered tips on what to pack, outlined restaurant stops to satisfy the local dining experiences we had requested, provided information on the most economical currency exchange practices and offered tips on how to save money on bringing or mailing gifts back to the states..

It was a stress-free experience and probably the best wedding anniversary gift we have shared.  When we again travel abroad, Brighter Things will be the first phone call we make.”

-William and Lily, Annville, Pa

Boutique Group Tours

The big tour companies.

“Brighter Things provides a quality vacation with a personalized touch. From the first meeting about my trip, Jessy from Brighter Things truly listened to me when I spoke of places I wanted to visit and things that I was interested in doing on my trip.

She created a detailed itinerary and came back to me with a list of options and i was able to choose what i got to do. jessy did a fabulous job of planning each stop to keep our days moving, but not too busy that we couldn’t explore and really see the country., jessy also was very knowledgeable about our destination and was able to give advice about what was worth our money and time. it can be a bit intimidating to visit other countries but brighter things made it super easy and affordable. i’m already saving for my next trip”, -katie, leander, tx, what’s included in your trip.

Let’s not forget your Brighter Things Amenity Kit mailed to your house! We’ll make that flight super comfy!

What’s NOT included?! 🙅🏻‍♀️

Let’s go to scotland.

Click the links below to see the payment options for single and double occupancy and payment plans for both!

Does NOT include airfare (please contact me if you need assistance with flights)

This tour is an activity level 4. click here for terms & conditions and cancelation policies., wanna come to ireland too, not only do you get a discount for bundling but you get an extra day in ireland.

Writer | Planner | World Traveler

Jessy Hamel is a syndicated travel writer and the traveler behind Brighter Things. She is hoping to inspire people to travel more through her blog and sharing her personal trips. You can also travel with her as she hosts small group tours to Europe through Brighter Things Boutique Group Tours.

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What To Do On A Small Group Tour of Scotland

I’ve said Scotland is my favorite place on Earth, and I mean it. I find it to be breathtakingly gorgeous and I cannot recommend it enough. If you are planning a small group tour of Scotland, there are certain places you cannot miss.

I fell in love with Scotland the moment I set foot on its mist-covered hills. There is something about this country that just feels like home. Maybe it’s the fact that it has some of the most beautiful places in the world, or maybe it’s the friendly people and rich culture. Whatever the reason, I know that I will always have a special place in my heart for Scotland.

There are so many things to do in Scotland that it can be hard to know where to start. But whether you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, quaint villages, or bustling cities, you’re sure to find it here. I always enjoy exploring the different regions of Scotland, from the wild Highlands to the rolling Borders. And of course, no visit to Scotland would be complete without sampling some of the delicious food and drink on offer.

From haggis and whisky to shortbread and Irn Bru, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I recommend traveling with a small group. Larger groups will be a little difficult to manage as a lot of the places to visit are quaint. Here are my recommendations for what to do on a small group tour of Scotland.

Group Tour Stop 1: Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is a beautiful and historic place that has something for everyone. From its picturesque Old Town and medieval castle to its flourishing food and drink scene, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh has a long and rich history dating back to the early Middle Ages. The first recorded mention of the city was in the 7th century AD, when it was known as Din Eidyn. The city came to prominence in the 12th century when King David I made it his capital. Under his rule, Edinburgh grew into an important political center, with a Royal Palace, Parliament House, and lively marketplaces.

The city reached its height of power in the 18th century during the Scottish Enlightenment when intellectuals such as philosopher David Hume and economist Adam Smith made Edinburgh their home. However, the city’s fortunes changed in the 19th century when Glasgow overtook it as Scotland’s leading industrial center. Despite this setback, Edinburgh continued to grow and flourish, with many new buildings and landmarks being constructed in the Victorian era.

In recent years, Edinburgh has undergone something of a renaissance, with its economy diversifying from traditional industries such as manufacturing to new sectors such as tourism and software development. The city is now home to a vibrant arts scene and some of the best restaurants in the country. If you haven’t visited Edinburgh yet, I highly recommend it!

Edinburg City Tours

Edinburgh is a truly unique city with a rich history and plenty of modern amenities. Whether you’re interested in exploring its ancient castles or trying out some of the local cuisines, you won’t be disappointed by what Edinburgh has to offer.

What I loved about it was the walkability. You can walk around the entire cobblestoned streets all day. The narrow streets and small passageways make it feel like a small town rather that a major city. While you are walking you witness the beautiful medieval architecture and relics on display.

Another interesting fact is that the city hosts several unique festivals throughout the year. It’s actually considered the world’s leading festival city. Throughout the year, you can experience various music, art, history, military and literary festivals that make this city even more amazing! Check out what’s happening HERE .

Group Tour Stop 2: Stirling and the Trossachs

No visit to Stirling and the Trossachs is complete without a stop at Stirling Castle. This imposing castle has played a key role in some of Scotland’s most important historical moments, including the Wars of Scottish Independence. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and gardens, and learn about its fascinating history. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle walls!

The Battle of Bannockburn was one of the most important battles in Scottish history, culminating in a decisive victory for Scottish forces led by Robert the Bruce over an English army. The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre tells the story of this pivotal battle through exhibits, interactive displays, and audio-visual presentations. Be sure to stop by the on-site café for a well-deserved break after exploring the center!

For those looking for a challenge, hiking up Ben Lomond is a must-do while in Stirling and the Trossachs. At 974 meters (3196 feet), Ben Lomond is the highest point in the southern Highlands, making it popular among hikers and climbers alike. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, so make sure you bring your camera! Once you’ve reached the summit, take a moment to relax and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Loch Lomond is one of Scotland’s most famous lochs, and for good reason. Its clear waters and stunning scenery make it a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and more. There are numerous boat rental companies located around Loch Lomond, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, boating on Loch Lomond is sure to provide it!

Make Sure You Stop at Glasgow!

Shop Till You Drop at The Outlet Village In nearby Glasgow sits The Outlet Village, Scotland’s premier outlet shopping destination. With over 80 stores offering up to 70% off designer brands like Prada, Nike, Burberry, and more, The Outlet Village is every shopper’s dream come true! Make sure to leave some room in your suitcase for all your new purchases!

Scotland Group Tour Stop #3-The Highlands

What I loved was Trossachs National Park. If had the most stunning, breathtaking, picturesque sites to truly make Scotland magical. My favorite book of all time is Outlander . It made me fall in love with Scotland even before I ever visited it! Then when I did, especially here, it lived up to every single one of my expectations.

A visit to the Highlands is a must. Start your adventure in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Explore the medieval old town, visit one of the many museums or take a scenic walk along the river. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner – haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed potatoes, turnips and sheep’s heart, liver and lungs) washed down with a wee dram of whisky.

Embark on a day of exploring Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and Glen Affric. Take a cruise on Loch Ness in search of Nessie, admire the views from Urquhart Castle ruins, and wander through Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. Be sure to stop for lunch at one of the many picturesque villages along the way.

For The More Adventurous Travelers!

Enjoy the great outdoors. Go for a hike in the Cairngorms National Park – there are routes to suit all abilities – or try your hand at mountain biking or wild swimming. In the afternoon, take a trip to Aviemore for some retail therapy before heading back to Inverness for dinner.

I recommend a visit to Fort William, taking in iconic landmarks such as Pitlochry Dam and Dunkeld Cathedral, along the way to Glenco. It’s one of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes where you can follow in the footsteps of ‘ Braveheart’ director Mel Gibson and film locations scout Iain Smith by taking a hike up Buachaille Etive Mor.

I also recommend Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest mountain – if you’re feeling particularly active or take a cable car ride to the top of Aonach Mòr for breathtaking views over Glen Nevis instead. For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground (and away from any midges!), there are plenty of other walks in the area worth checking out.

Bonus Trip: Achmelvich Bay

Achmelvich Bay is a secluded beach located in the northwest of Scotland. It is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and swimming. The bay itself is beautiful, with white sand and clear turquoise water. There are also several tide pools that are perfect for exploring at low tide. Achmelvich Bay is well-known for its wildlife; seals can often be seen basking on the rocks or swimming in the bay.

One of the best things about Achmelvich Bay is that it is not crowded like some of the other popular beaches in Scotland. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. There are several walking trails through the dunes, so you can explore the area even if you don’t fancy going for a swim. It is totally worth the drive!

Small Group Tours of Scotland are a Must!

Whether you’re planning a trip to Scotland or just daydreaming about it, I hope this has given you a taste of what this amazing country has to offer. I know I’ll be back soon enough for more adventures. In the meantime, Slàinte!

If you are ready to book your group tour of Scotland, contact me today! Click Below!

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