Scotland travel update | New tours of the UK!

Menu
Glenfinnan Memorial

Wonders of Scotland

(7 days / 6 nights)

4.8
View Photos View Map
10% OFF IN 2024

Explore Scotland’s Beauty and Discover its Culture

Join this guided tour to see the Scotland you can’t experience through guidebooks. You’ll see classic sights as well as off-the-beaten-track spots, all with a local driver-guide to regale you with tales of history and folklore. Sit back and enjoy the views as you travel from the Scottish capital city to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. You will be treated to true Scottish hospitality and enjoy gourmet local cuisine along the way.

View a similar private tour where you travel in your own group.

Interested in the full Celtic experience? Selected dates of this tour can be combined with Wonders of Ireland, a spellbinding 8-day journey across the Emerald Isle. Contact us for more information about this two-country option.

4.8
10% OFF IN 2024

7 days / 6 nights

Price p.p. from

2892GBP

You save: 289 GBP per person

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 2603 GBP

See special offers terms

— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Groups limited to 15 travellers
  • Seamless travel experience
  • Experienced driver & friendly guide
  • Quality & value for your money
  • Service from local travel experts in Scotland
  • 100% guaranteed departures
  • 24/7 helpline during your tour
  • Great customer reviews
  • Carbon offsetting included

Read more

— Book With Confidence

  • Optional cancellation insurance
  • Affordable deposits from 10%

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

  • Explore some of Scotland’s top sights on the famous and breathtaking Isle of Skye
  • Sail on the mysterious Loch Ness to admire the surroundings
  • Photograph the iconic Eilean Donan Castle
  • Discover Scotland‘s historic capital Edinburgh and stroll up the Royal Mile
  • Experience the striking natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands
  • Admire the stunning scenery of Glen Coe
  • Enjoy some quiet time in nature at the Trossachs National Park
  • Taste the flavour of the country at a local whisky distillery
  • Stay at unique properties & enjoy gourmet local cuisine
  • Hassle-free travel experience with a local tour driver-guide

Travel style

Guided Small Groups i

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Highlands i, Isles i, Off the Beaten Path i, Whisky i

Pace level

Level 2/3 (Classic) i

Activity level

Level 2/4 (Moderate) i

Season

May - Sep

Max group size

15

Departure

See Calendar

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Highlands i, Isles i, Off the Beaten Path i, Whisky i

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

  • Day 1: Arrival in Scotland

    When you arrive in Scotland, make your way to your accommodation in the Edinburgh city centre. Many travellers opt to take a taxi or use public transport, but for a more direct and comfortable ride, we will be happy to organise a private airport transfer for you.

    For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit in the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle. For a spectacular view over the city we recommend going up Calton Hill.

    Tonight you can enjoy dinner at one of Edinburgh’s many gourmet restaurants and spend the evening at your leisure.

    Spend the night at Nira Caledonia or similar.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details See Activities for this day
  • Day 2: INTO THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

    Today, your guide will pick you up to set off on your epic trip around Scotland. The tour will start with a drive across the Firth of Forth, taking in the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Forth Rail Bridge, before heading north to Inverness.

    On the way, you’ll have the opportunity to go for a forest walk at the picturesque Hermitage, followed by a visit of nearby Dunkeld. From there your guide continues through the Cairngorms National Park where you will stop at the Highland Folk Museum.

    Arriving near Inverness, you will do 2 stops. First is the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746. Nearby you will also visit the mysterious Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years. Tonight, you will enjoy dinner at your accommodation together.

    Spend the night at Drumossie Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation 
    • Entrance to Highland Folk Museum
    • Entrance to the Battlefield of Culloden
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 3: LOCH NESS BOAT TOUR & THE ISLE OF SKYE

    Experience some of Scotland’s most famous attractions today. Your guide will take you to the mysterious Loch Ness, where you will hop aboard a boat tour. This is your chance to take photos of the dramatic surroundings and see if you can catch a glimpse of Nessie. Next up the guide will make a stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a sight you will surely recognise from films.

    Then you will finally reach the Isle of Skye where dinner will be served at tonight’s accommodation. 

    Spend the night at Hame on Skye or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Loch Ness boat tour
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 4: THE WONDERS OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

    Today you will have a full day to take in the magic of Skye, a haven for nature lovers. The guide will take you to the northern part of the island, to the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula. This is where so many of the island’s mythical and spectacular landscapes lie.

    Driving over the Quiraing, admire some of the jaw-dropping natural sights. You will see the waterfall plunging over the 90-metre (295-foot) Kilt Rock sea cliffs, pass by the iconic “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle, and go for a walk to the gorge overlooking Lealt Falls. You might even get to see some dinosaur footprints at the An Corran Beach at Staffin. You’ll return to your accommodation for the night and enjoy dinner as a group. 

    Spend another night at the Hame on Skye or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation 
    • Guided walk at Lealt Falls (20 minutes)
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 5: SCOTTISH WILDLIFE & GLENFINNAN

    Hop on the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig on mainland Scotland. On the drive down to Loch Lomond, you will stop by the stunning Camusdarach Beach where you will have some time to admire the white sand and crystal-clear water. You will then pass by Glenfinnan where you can visit the Glenfinnan Monument, overlooking the beautiful Loch Shiel, and admire the Glenfinnan Viaduct high above. You may recognise it from the Harry Potter film series.

    Later, travel through Glen Coe, Scotland’s most famous valley. Here, you will go on a guided 20-minute walk, a perfect chance to take photos. Finally, you’ll arrive in Inveraray where you can explore at your leisure before enjoying a farewell dinner with your travel companions.

    Spend the night at The George Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Guided walk at Glen Coe (20mins)
    • Ferry from Armadale to Mallaig 
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average Travel & Exploring Duration: 8 hours (including 30-minute ferry crossing)

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 6: THE TROSSACHS, WHISKY AND STIRLING CASTLE

    This morning, travel through the impressive Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Your first stop is in Luss, a charming medieval village on the banks of Loch Lomond. Then you’ll stop in Doune to enjoy a tour and tasting at Deanston Whisky Distillery

    Next, you will also pass by the beautiful city of Stirling, where you’ll visit the impressive Stirling Castle. The last stop on this tour will be the Kelpies, 2 impressive horse-head statues that will capture your attention.

    Your guide will then drop you off at your accommodation in Glasgow. You can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure in Scotland’s largest city.

    Spend the night at Grand Central Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation 
    • Tour and tasting at Deanston Whisky Distillery
    • Entrance to Stirling Castle

    Average travel & exploration time: 8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 7: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

    On your final day in Scotland, make your way back to the airport for your departure flight. You can also arrange a private airport transfer or additional nights in Scotland while booking your tour. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may have time for some last-minute shopping on Buchanan Street, a visit to one of Glasgow’s museums, or to take one last stroll through the charming West End.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    See Activities for this day

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this small guided group tour in Scotland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Scotland Travel Guide.

On a small guided group tour with Nordic Visitor, you can sit back and enjoy an immersive itinerary alongside a group of like-minded travellers. There will be no more than 15 in a group, so your guide can get to know you all personally.

Your guide will be an expert in Scottish history and culture. They’ll share their local knowledge and stories with you, and take you to hidden gems across each country. They will also act as the logistical organiser for the group. They’ll ensure everything is running smoothly and that you’re having a good time in Ireland.

You’ll also enjoy the service of an experienced driver. They know the roads well and will make sure you’re always comfortable throughout your journey.

Due to the nature of this tour and activities included, it’s not recommended for families with young children. That said, it is suitable for well-travelled, active children of 13 years or older. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Please note that the local legal drinking age is 18. It means that those aged 17 and under will not take part in distillery tours.

To make sure you and your fellow travellers have a comfortable journey, we need to limit the size and amount of luggage in the bus.

Each guest can bring one suitcase or large bag that can be stored in the back of the minibus. The guidance size for the larger luggage is that it should not exceed 158 cm (62 in) when adding the length, width and height. It should not weigh more than 20 kg.

You can also bring one smaller item (like a small backpack) inside the van for daily essentials like camera, wallet, medications and so forth. Unfortunately carry-on suitcases (cabin bags) are too large to store in the van’s overhead racks.

If you have more luggage, we ask that you please make arrangements to store it during the guided portion of the tour.

Please note that you should be able to carry your own suitcase at accommodation and between transport.

If you have any questions about luggage your Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be able to assist you.

During your Scotland tour, you’ll stay in accommodation hand-picked by our local travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

You can view the detailed list of hotels for this trip under the accommodation tab.

In Scotland, you can choose from single or double rooms. Twin, triple and family rooms are not commonly available. Please contact your travel consultant if your group contains 3 or more people.

Please also note that in Scotland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America. For example, a double room often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

Due to the historic nature of the properties we usually select, most of the rooms are only accessible by stairs. Lifts are not common in Scottish hotels. Please let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to walk up stairs.

This tour includes a few guided walks along the itinerary. This means you must be prepared and able to walk between 1-3 kilometres (0.6–2 miles) daily. You also need to be able to carry your own luggage when boarding the vehicle and at each accommodation.

Summer in Scotland might be warmer than you expect! While temperatures are unlikely to reach higher than 20°C (68 °F), heatwaves in Scotland are usually humid. This means it can feel hotter than it is, especially in Edinburgh or Glasgow.

That said, the weather is also very changeable, so you’ll want to come prepared for anything. Rain is always a possibility, and when the sun sets a warm jumper or jacket is a must. We’ve prepared a useful packing guide to help you decide what to bring with you.

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit. If something unexpected occurs, you can call our 24/7 helpline to speak directly with a Nordic Visitor staff member.

Whatever time of year you’re in Scotland, you’re likely to see lots of different types of weather. As you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors it’s a good idea to come prepared for a combination of weather conditions.

Here is a recommended packing list for a summer trip:

  • A warm jumper or fleece
  • A waterproof jacket
  • Good walking shoes or boots (especially if you intend to hike and go on nature walks)
  • Light scarf or thin sweater
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat

In some areas of Scotland, such as the Highlands and islands, you might notice small, pesky insects called midges. They’re most active on summer evenings and tend to swarm near still water. You can avoid bites by wearing long-sleeves and trousers and by packing an insect repellent.

And here’s our recommendations for a winter getaway:

  • A warm, windproof and waterproof jacket
  • Thermal base layers and cosy jumpers
  • A scarf, gloves and hat
  • Sturdy boots and some woollen socks

For more information, check this packing list suggestion.

On your tour of Scotland, breakfast at your accommodation is included each day. You will also enjoy some group dinners, included in your package. These meals will usually either be a set dinner menu or a dinner buffet with a good variety of local fresh ingredients (drinks not included).

Please notify your travel consultant at the time of booking of any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Other meals are not included and are at your own expense. Your driver and guide will make sure to stop along the way for you to pick up snacks, drinks and lunch.

The amount of spending money you’ll need will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

We recommend budgeting between £15–£20 per person for each day’s lunch. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between £20–£25. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay £40–£50 or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

If you enjoy your experience with your guide, it’s a nice idea to give them a tip.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can ask your guide or call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline.

The Edinburgh-based travel expert on call will handle any unforeseen situations for you, such as unusual weather or events.

If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, Australia or the European Union, you won’t need a visa to visit Scotland.

Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Scotland on the website of the UK government.

Your passport must also be valid during the entirety of your stay in Scotland. It’s a good idea to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

As you’ll be travelling as part of a guided group tour, your itinerary for this portion of your trip is set. But you can still customise other parts of your package.

For instance, you could add extra nights in Edinburgh before or after the guided portion of your trip. This will give you more time to explore the Scottish capital at your own pace. You can add these additional days while booking your package online.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. 

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

You can get in touch with our Scotland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Scotland Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents.

Upon your arrival in Scotland, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor Scotland Travel Guide and more.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Scotland?

After picking up your luggage, make your way to your accommodation in the Edinburgh city centre. If you’ve come from another airport, such as Glasgow, you can take the train or book a private transfer.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel if you have to wait. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching public transport or a taxi to the airport.

All bookings are billed in British Pounds (GBP), the local currency in Scotland and the UK.

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from GBP to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

Reviews

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Wonderful experience

We had a wonderful experience using Nordic Visitor. From the start of planning our adventure to Scotland, the communication before trip was outstanding. The tour itself was well thought out, we saw so many sights that on our own we may have missed. We only wished there were more hours in a day so we could have spent more time in the gorgeous countryside of Scotland (and maybe have done a bit more shopping!).

Professional from start to finish

This is our second Nordic Visitor tour. We would definitely look through them again. From start to finish, everything was professional, well handled, and delivered on its promises.

Excellent experience

Edinburgh to Glasgow via Isle of Skye. Scenery amazing. Bus comfortable and skilfully driven. Guide friendly, fairly knowledgeable, if a bit verbose. Had some good jokes. At other times, perhaps less commentary would have been more. When the rare organisation glitch occurred, she really shone: sorting out quickly, finding good alternatives to items suddenly not available, and such like. Enjoyed the tour. Learned some new things. 

On reflection, we would choose a tour with perhaps fewer stops, but with more opportunity for informed individual exploration. Will keep an eye on Nordic Visitor site, as found it an excellent provider.  

Excellent

I traveled with my spouse and other family and friends. The people on the tour that I did not know were friendly and shared similar interests. Our driver, Tim, was excellent, offering additional information at times to what our guide was saying. The two of them interacted well, and made for an overall pleasant experience.

Highly recommend Nordic Visitor

This is our second tour with Nordic Visitor. Agents used before the tour were always very prompt with responses to our questions. During the tour, we found the accommodation perfect, guide very informative and friendly, and the driver got used to where we needed to go without any problems. We would definitely use Nordic Visitor again!

One of the best small tours we have taken

One of the best small tours we have taken. We would definitely consider another tour with Nordic Visitor.

Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Situated in the New Town of Edinburgh, the Nira Caledonia is a boutique hotel house in an elegant Georgian townhouse. Its central location, only a short stroll from Princes Street, will be...

Come stay at a luxury 4-star hotel just outside Inverness. Drumossie is set amidst a 9-acre parkland for a peaceful atmosphere. From your room, you’ll feel like you are having a trad...

Your hotel on the Isle of Skye is located 5 mins south of the western town of Dunvegan, near the shores of Pool Roag by Loch Vatten. Hame on Skye offers an incredible location, amidst the...

Your hotel on the Isle of Skye is located 5 mins south of the western town of Dunvegan, near the shores of Pool Roag by Loch Vatten. Hame on Skye offers an incredible location, amidst the...

The George Hotel is located at the heart of Inveraray, along the mighty Loch Fyne. Set on the main street, the hotel is one of the many beautiful, white-washed buildings of this lakeside t...

The Grand Central Hotel is located right by the stunning Glasgow Central Station, making up one of the city’s most iconic building. Set at the heart of the city centre, it is a per...

The hotels mentioned are our first priority for this tour. Please note that although we have included specific accommodations in the tour, these are subject to change in some cases. We reserve the right to substitute a named property in the same locality for one of a similar standard. We will send you the final list of hotels before you arrive for your tour.

Guaranteed departures

Group size: Maximum group size is 15 participants.

Price p.p. from

Approx 2603 GBP

The amount will be charged in GBP

  • Arrival
    Price
    Availability
  • Thursday 25 April 2024
    Sold out
  • Thursday 2 May 2024
    2672 GBP
    1 space left
  • Thursday 9 May 2024
    Sold out
  • Thursday 16 May 2024
    2672 GBP
    1 space left
  • Thursday 23 May 2024
    2672 GBP
    1 space left
  • Thursday 30 May 2024
    Sold out
  • Thursday 6 June 2024
    2856 GBP
    3 spaces left
  • Thursday 13 June 2024
    2856 GBP
    2 spaces left
  • Thursday 20 June 2024
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 27 June 2024
    2856 GBP
    1 space left
  • Thursday 4 July 2024
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 11 July 2024
    2856 GBP
    6 spaces left
  • Thursday 18 July 2024
    2856 GBP
    4 spaces left
  • Thursday 25 July 2024
    2856 GBP
    7 spaces left
  • Thursday 15 August 2024
    2892 GBP 2603 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 29 August 2024
    2892 GBP
    3 spaces left
  • Thursday 5 September 2024
    Sold out
  • Thursday 12 September 2024
    2856 GBP
    4 spaces left
  • Thursday 19 September 2024
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 26 September 2024
    2856 GBP
    4 spaces left
  • Thursday 17 April 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 24 April 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 8 May 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 15 May 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 22 May 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 29 May 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 12 June 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 19 June 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 26 June 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 17 July 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 24 July 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 7 August 2025
    2892 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 14 August 2025
    2892 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 21 August 2025
    2892 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 4 September 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 11 September 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 25 September 2025
    2856 GBP
    Available
  • Thursday 2 October 2025
    2672 GBP
    Available

OTHER SUGGESTED TOURS

10% OFF IN 2024
Scotland
Best seller
Guided Groups
10 days / 9 nights
4.7
May - Sep

Highlights of Scotland

3774GBP

Eur

We are here to help

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

here to help