best small group tours scotland

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Take your adventure further.

Scotland plays host to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and it is the perfect choice for your next vacation. With mythical attributes, legend, and history, you’re sure to find something magical on your Scotland tour. Whether you choose to explore the wild, yet beautiful Scottish Highlands or seek Nessie along the banks of Loch Ness, our escorted tours will take you on a journey we know you’ll love. 

Take a look at our  2024 Scotland Tours ,  our 2025 Scotland Tours , or book a  Custom Tour of Scotland   tailored to your vision of your perfect holiday . We have a great variety of vacation packages to choose from and our friendly team are more than happy to have a chat to help you decide which tour is right for you.

Travel with Confidence

Begin your trip of a lifetime..

With over 20 years experience, Best Scottish Tours is a family business with a real passion for Scotland.

Our aim is to guide you through this wonderful country and show you roads less travelled.

We keep your interests and budget in mind to ensure you enjoy an escorted vacation that suits you. Reach out to chat more about our Scottish tours and together we can build your perfect all inclusive vacation package.  We can collect you from anywhere in Scotland, usually Edinburgh or Glasgow, so all you need to worry about is having a wonderful holiday.

Safe Bubble Tours.

For any groups of two or more we offer private tours to enable you to enjoy Scotland within your family or friend bubble. We can pick you up from the airport and drop you off again in your own private vehicle, meaning that you don't have to worry about using shared transport. You will have your own personal driver/guide for the duration of your escorted tour and your private vehicle will be thoroughly cleansed with a fog machine before your tour. Your vehicle will also be cleansed each day prior to touring, as well as at each stop.

All accommodation, meals and attraction bookings are included in your vacation package. We will make sure you only stay, eat in, and visit high-quality, authentic properties and attractions throughout your tour of Scotland.

Let us take the hassle out of organising your vacation. Your safety is always, our top priority. 

Find your tour.

It’s not just about the scenery. Best Scottish Tours provide you with inclusive tour options. Our drivers and guides bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for Scotland. Our hand-picked accommodations ensure you get to see just how great Scottish hospitality is. Our comprehensive tours take you on a journey through all areas of Scotland: from the Highlands and Lowlands, the Western Isles of Skye, Harris, Lewis, Mull and Iona, the famous Malt Whisky regions of Strathspey and Islay, the scattered islands of Orkney, and the scenic North Coast 500.

Where would you go? What would you see?

Choose from one of our popular Scottish tours or design your own custom tour.

Whatever you decide, Best Scottish Tours will take you on your perfect Scottish adventure.

Departing soon

4 Day Historic Castles, Highland Villages & East Neuk Mini Tour

10th september 2024.

Only 3 spaces remaining

£1670 per person (based on 2 sharing)

4 Day Iconic Scotland Tour

23rd september 2024.

Only 2 spaces remaining

£1772 per person (based on 2 sharing)

8 Day Best of Scotland with Jacobite Steam Train Tour

26th september 2024.

Only 1 spaces remaining

£3620 per person (based on 2 sharing)

Why choose best scottish tours.

Award-winning small group tours. Our standard tours have a maximum of 8 passengers per vehicle.

Tours ranging from 1 to 13 days.

Craft the journey that you want with a custom tour.

We include hand-picked accommodations as standard to ensure you get to see just how great Scottish hospitality is.

We keep your interests and budget in mind.

We’ve spent over 20 years providing visitors with unique tours of this stunning country.

Latest Reviews

I had such a terrific time on the tour. I cannot believe how much I was able to see and experience, from the beautiful lochs and picturesque landscapes to the unique small towns all over the country. Some personal favourites include the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, driving through the Applecross Peninsula, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and exploring Inverness... What really made the tour was our guide, Terry. Not only was he incredibly kind and fun to be around, he has such an immense wealth of knowledge. Terry is a natural storyteller; he spoke in a very engaging way about so many things, from history (neolithic, medieval, and modern) and culture to local trade and wildlife. He also made a huge effort to make sure we were enjoying ourselves and to show us some spectacular parts of the country we would never have known existed. He made the experience so special.

Our guide Alex, was wonderful, attentive, humorous, knowledgable, structured yet flexible and just a delight. The accommodations varied each time we changed, each was distinct in it's own way, but all were top notch. Our tour was filled with sights from the itinerary we were sent, and also with sights or attractions Alex thought we'd enjoy based on his experience of us. Again, all right on point. I had numerous very powerful, and at times emotional, learning experiences about my family of origin, a clan from Scotland - so much so that I bought a kilt and accessories, along with a scarf in our family tartan colors at Loch Carron Weavers as we were going to the Applecross Peninsula. The Western Highlands were magnificent, as were the castle tours and castle ruins we saw along the way. Thank you for a wonderful trip experience! It's obvious why you were voted the #1 Tour Company in Scotland last year. Well done!

My husband and I just completed our 8 day Best of Scotland Tour. Our guide, Tom, was outstanding! We couldn't have asked for a better guide to show us the beauty of Scotland!! Around every corner there was something beautiful or historical to see and learn about, or an experience to enjoy. Our accommodations and meals were all great and added local flavor to a trip we'll always remember.

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Book Small Group Tours of Scotland for 2025 With Personal Tours of Scotland

Imagine sitting in a custom Mercedes enjoying a chilled drink or perhaps a wee dram from our onboard whisky bar as you journey through the majestic Scottish landscape. 

At the same time, your expert Driver/Guide entertains you with stories from Scotland’s colourful history. Book your place on our seven day or ten day small group tour of Scotland.

Book your small group tour for 2025 today.

As a group of 8 we spent 5 days touring with Rob Hall - Edinburgh, St. Andrews,Inverness, Isle of Skye and points in between. We all had an excellent time and Rob was full of local knowledge and history with a great sense of humor. Can recommend Personal Tours of Scotland highly.

Scotland is even more amazing than I ever imagined -- all thanks to Chris! He made each day of our tour more special than the day before. From castles to niche dining to impromtu hiking to find the Fairy Bridge to nuzzling the Highland Coos, he went above and beyond to truly personalize our experience. Highly recommend Personal Tours of Scotland -- and absolutely recommend Chris as your personal guide.

Enjoy Small Group Tours without the Squash!

A warm welcome awaits you in Scotland, a land where ancient legends intertwine with a breathtaking landscape. Our driver/guides are some of the best in Scotland, bringing this land, it’s history and culture to life.

Join us on the road less travelled

We will always take the road less travelled, the scenic route. Our small group tours can venture where others cannot. With a maximum of just eight travellers per journey, you’ll get personalized experiences, allowing for deeper connections not only with the land but also with its people.  Here, every question is heard, and every moment feels exclusively yours.

Travel in Style

Our vehicles don’t compromise on comfort or style. Originally designed for sixteen travellers, but customised for our groups of eight. Each of our guests have ample legroom and great views. Complimentary chilled water is always available along with Scottish treats. Your guide will occasionally offer you a complimentary dram from our on board Whisky bar.

Boutique Accommodations

Each accommodation venue has been carefully selected and has been chosen for their scenic views, historic surroundings and the famous Highland hospitality. Each property will be different and offers unique Scottish charm and comfort.

Delight in Authentic Scottish Meals

Indulge in four exquisite evening meals during your journey. Whether it’s freshly caught seafood or the local delicac ies like haggis or Cullen Skink , every bite is a taste of Scotland’s rich culinary heritage. And remember, while group dinners are a time of shared laughter and stories, we understand the need for solitary moments. Choose how you dine, every night.

Discover Hidden Gems

Sure, we’ll visit Scotland’s iconic sites, but our small group advantage means we can also venture off the beaten path. Explore places that larger groups simply can’t access and uncover hidden gems known only to locals.

Your Passport to Scotland’s Treasures

Historic Environment Scotland cares for numerous ancient sites throughout the land. The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass grants you access to many of these attractions. Let this pass be your guide to further exploration. The Explorer pass is a cost effective way of avoiding the queues at peak times. Passes can be requested on booking.

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VIP Small Group Tours of Scotland in 10 Days

A fabulous tour showing off the very best of Scotland, her scenery, history, cuisine and culture.

Book Now – Join Your Group

Book our 7 day tour that includes Isle of Skye

Our first port of call will be the amazing 5 sisters viewpoint before heading to Glenelg (twinned with Mars ).

Personal Tours of Scotland and Brian were very accommodating and helpful when planning our trip. We were lucky to get Chris as our guide. Chris is an amazing tour guide of Scotland. He is knowledgeable not only of places to go, but shares important and interesting history as well. He took us to Skye, Mull and Iona, and expertly navigated sometimes tricky single lane roads and ferries with good cheer. He made helpful suggestions of additional things to do and good places to eat. He sometimes knew more about the castles than the castle guides shared!

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Scotland Small Group Trips

Looking for a small group tour to Scotland? We currently offer 35+ small group tours in Scotland having received 45+ customer reviews. Our tours have been handpicked to provide you with the finest selection of small group tours that Scotland has to offer. If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking to meet other people, joining a small group tour is a great way to meet other like-minded travelers. Bon voyage.

Showing  36 Trips in Scotland  with 48 Reviews

Highlights of Scotland

Scotland Coast to Coast Walk and Barge

A Scottish Journey

Scotland's Orkney Islands

Scotland's Shetland Islands

Walking Scotland’s Orkney Islands

Outlander Tour of Scotland

Spirit of Outlander - 16 Day Tour

Journeys: Discover Scotland

Wild Scotland - M/V Greg Mortimer

Spirit of Outlander - 11 Day Tour

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Discover the Spirit of Scotland: Authentic Small-Group Tours

Embrace the thrill with scotland adventure tours.

Scotland’s wild heart beats strong in its towering fortresses, untamed landscapes, and the echoes of Gaelic spoken by ancient settlers. Our Scotland adventure tours delve into this storied past, offering you a chance to walk in the footsteps of clans and kings. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands, where every glen and loch tells a story. Discover more about our curated expeditions, or perhaps, weave your own narrative by combining your journey with our enriching Tours of Ireland to experience the best of both Celtic destinations. 

Authentic Experiences with Our Guided Tours of Scotland

With Wild N Happy, small-group travel in Scotland transcends the ordinary. Our expertly led excursions not only cover the grandeur of renowned Scottish icons but also usher you into the hidden nooks that escape the typical tourist routes. Whether it’s uncovering the mysteries of the Orkney Isles or tracing the rugged trails of the West Highland Way, we’re here to guide your adventure. If the allure of Scotland calls to you as a siren song to visit the land of your ancestors, let us craft a vacation in Scotland that’s as unique as your own clan tartan. We encourage you to reach out if you’d like to find out if our Scotland tours go to specific spots that help you reconnect with your Scottish heritage. 

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Discover Scotland – 6 Day Tour

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The wild n happy foundation, make a difference when you travel with us as with each booking you make directly with us we give back 3% through the wild n happy foundation to carefully selected initiatives that promote a better planet..

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Scotland Vacation FAQs

Do i need a passport or a visa to travel to scotland.

UK and EU citizens are required to have a valid passport or a national identity card to enter Scotland. Citizens of all other countries must have a valid passport.

Citizens of the EEA member states as well as other countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA are not required to apply for a visa to travel to Scotland.

Prior to travelling to Scotland, citizens of all other countries should contact their local Scottish Embassy or visit the Department of Foreign Affairs website for more information.

What currency is accepted in Scotland?

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, so its official currency is the British Pound.

Is tipping customary in Scotland?

Tips are not included in our tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion. A guided price to tipping in Scotland is generally between 10-15% of cost value. In taxies, it’s usually nice to round up to the nearest five, but it’s not expected.

What is internet access like in Scotland? 

Internet access is quite good in Scotland.  Most B&Bs, hotels, cafés, pubs, and tourist attractions across the country offer Wi-Fi access to their customers or visitors. As you venture into the highlands and islands, you will struggle to access reliable mobile internet signal.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Scotland?

Mobile phone coverage is good in most parts of Scotland. However, ensure your global roaming is fully activated before travelling to Scotland, so you can enjoy the benefits of your phone plan away from home. 

What are toilets like in Scotland?

Toilets in Scotland are modern and flushable. In addition to the public restrooms you can find in most towns and villages, some are also available in service stations and pubs.

Is smoking legal in Scotland? 

In 2006, Scotland banned smoking in public buildings. While smoking is prohibited in work and public places, it is however permitted in the street and in private accommodation.

Can I drink the water in Scotland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in most parts of Scotland — especially in large cities and towns like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Sterling. However, it is recommended not to drink from the bathroom sink.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Scotland?

In Scotland, most stores will accept credit and debit cards, and it’s illegal in the UK to charge you to use them. Some small stores won’t have card machines, though, so it’s good to have some spare cash — just in case.

What is ATM access like in Scotland?

ATMs are common in Scotland, they can generally be found outside banks, in grocery stores and in transit centers.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Scotland?

Our tours do not include travel insurance but we highly recommend travel insurance for all Wild N Happy tours. We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money and public liability before travelling. We accept no responsibility for the theft, loss or damage to personal belongings or liability for personal injury/death at any time during the duration of your tour. 

What public holidays are celebrated in Scotland?

• 1–2 January / New Year’s Day
• 15 April / Good Friday 
• 18 April / Easter Monday
• 3 June / Platinum Jubilee bank holiday
• 1 August / Summer Bank Holiday
• 30 November / St Andrew’s Day
• 25 December / Christmas Day
• 26 December / Boxing Day

What is the weather like in Scotland? 

If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait a minute and it’s likely to change. Expect to have four seasons in one day and pack accordingly.

Travel Guides of Ireland and Scotland

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Ireland: What You Need To Know About The Most Exciting Views

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Guided Small Group Tours of Scotland

Discover breathtaking sights with a knowledgeable guide plus a dedicated driver on one of these small group tours of Scotland. Relax knowing that every detail is taken care of, and your accommodation, handpicked activities, and some meals are included.

4 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

• Castle tours of Scotland
• Solo travel in Scotland
• Small group packages in the UK
• Small group packages in Europe

OTHER WAYS TO TRAVEL

• Private tours of Scotland
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Wonders of Scotland

Scottish highlands, loch ness & isle of skye.

Highlights of Scotland

Wonders of scotland & ireland, ultimate celtic adventure, wonders of britain, england, wales & scotland.

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About Your Small Group Tour

Experience Scotland with a small group of like-minded travellers and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. Learn about the country’s historic castles, and visit valleys (or “glens'') that are world-famous for their beauty. With your driver at the wheel, you can sit back and enjoy hearing about Scotland from your local guide. When you book a Nordic Visitor guided small group tour of Scotland, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience operated by a trusted local company • An Edinburgh-based travel consultant who'll arrange your tour • An expert local guide to offer unique insights • A maximum of 15 people in a spacious minibus with a dedicated driver • Handpicked accommodation for a comfortable stay • Daily breakfast provided, as well as some evening meals • 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it as easy as possible to plan your small group tour. Start your journey by following these simple steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

Why Choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor has been creating expert-curated trips in Northern Europe ever since. Your Edinburgh-based travel consultant will use their insider knowledge to arrange your tour for you. Every aspect of your package is quality-tested by us so you can relax on a hassle-free trip.

Small groups guaranteed

Our guided tours of Scotland have guaranteed departures of up to just 15 guests with a guide and dedicated driver. Enjoy a more personal experience than you would get in a larger group. Plus, you’ll be able to learn from your expert guide without feeling hurried on to the next destination.

Great reviews

Our dedicated teams deliver excellent service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travelers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

You are in good hands

We’ve got you covered if something unexpected happens on your trip. Call our 24/7 helpline for support and an on-call travel expert will assist you. They’ll handle any unforeseen situations and, if needed, move your accommodation and re-book activities, while keeping you safe and informed.

Handpicked hotels

Enjoy the best of Scottish hospitality at cosy inns, B&B’s and guesthouses. Check-in and recharge your batteries in lodgings that we’ve selected for their comfort, cleanliness and friendly atmosphere. We also visit each accommodation regularly to ensure it meets our high standards for your trip.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Reviews of our Scotland Escorted Tours

Here’s what our happy guests have to say about their guided small group tour experience.

Terry United States

It was an amazing trip! My husband and I took the Highlights of Scotland tour in July and had a wonderful time! Our... read more

It was an amazing trip! My husband and I took the Highlights of Scotland tour in July and had a wonderful time! Our tour guide, Andy, was amazing. His knowledge of Scotland was top notch and kept us informed throughout the entire tour. Andy educated us on Scotland history, shared delightful stories and enlightened us with Scottish culture. The accommodation were all so nice. Each one a bit different, but comfortable and lovely. Each place had helpful and respectful staff. Our bus was very comfortable, lots of room and great windows for the amazing views of Scottish scenery. The drivers were great. So glad they were driving us around the country.

William United States

Great communication, well-organised, very knowledgeable and personable guide, overall a great tour with no negatives... read more

Great communication, well-organised, very knowledgeable and personable guide, overall a great tour with no negatives whatsoever!

Your Scotland Guided Tour Highlights

Immerse yourself in the beautiful Highlands, traverse rugged coastlines and visit historic castles on one of these Scotland guided group tours from Edinburgh. Embark on a Scottish adventure and soon you could…

• Wander Edinburgh ’s cobbled streets and follow the lively Royal Mile to reach famous Edinburgh Castle
• Marvel at the Isle of Skye ’s jagged mountains and take in the coastal scenery on a wildlife boat tour
• Explore Loch Ness , Urquhart Castle and Culloden Battlefield from Inverness , the “capital of the Highlands”
• Soak up stunning scenery in Glen Coe and Glenfinnan , which feature in the Harry Potter films
• Head to the Trossachs National Park in Scotland’s west Highlands and stroll along the shores of Loch Lomond
• Visit Royal Deeside and admire the heather-clad mountains of the Cairngorms National Park
• Tour Scotland’s renowned castles, including impressive Eilean Donan and the striking clifftop ruins of Dunnottar
• Savour a glass or two of Scotland’s most iconic tipple at an award-winning whisky distillery in Speyside
• Uncover the legends of Scottish history in Stirling and visit the castle where Mary Queen of Scots was crowned

Advice for escorted tours

Prepare for your Scottish adventure by reading our handy travel guides.

What kind of temperatures can you expect in Scotland?

Health & safety

How to find pharmacies, medical help and emergency assistance in the UK

What to bring

Come prepared for all seasons and activities with the right clothing

Find out more about the British currency and common forms of payment

Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland Small Group Guided Tours

You may have a few questions before booking your escorted tour, so we’ve compiled a list of the most commonly asked ones for your convenience. For more in-depth information, you can check out this handy Scotland Travel Guide .

It’s also good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. To find out about our booking process, payments and more, please read our FAQs and booking terms .

1. WHAT IS A SMALL GROUP TOUR?

A small group tour is where a local guide leads you and a few like-minded travellers on an adventure together. Your guide will share their in-depth knowledge with you while taking you to all the best spots.

As well as being able to learn from expert guides, we believe that by keeping the group small you’ll have a more personal experience.

This is why, at Nordic Visitor, our Scotland group tours have a maximum of 15 people. Plus, exploring in a minibus means you will be able to visit places that large groups and coaches can’t get to.

2. IS IT SAFE TO EXPLORE SCOTLAND ON A GUIDED TOUR?

Yes, Scotland is a safe place to visit on a guided group tour thanks to its public healthcare services and high health and safety standards. For any  Scotland travel updates , and to find out why you can Book With Confidence , check out these helpful pages.

3. WHY IS A LOCAL TOUR GUIDE IMPORTANT?

Having a handpicked tour guide who can share their local knowledge with you will make your adventure that much more memorable. They’ll take you to the Highlands’ best hidden gems, and you’ll learn about the history and culture from someone who lives here.

Not to mention that you’ll get the inside scoop on the best local whiskies, the most intriguing castles, and the ultimate breathtaking viewpoints.

If you’d prefer to travel in a group of your own choosing, such as with your friends and family, why not consider a privately guided tour of Scotland ? Or, if you’d like to meet new people but haven’t decided on a destination yet, then check out these escorted tour packages in Northern Europe .

4. HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL THERE BE IN THE GROUP?

The maximum number of guests on small group trips to Scotland is 15. Capping the group gives you more personal contact with your guide. Plus, it also means that you’ll get to know your fellow travellers better than you would in a large group.

5. ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED TO JOIN?

We welcome children aged 13 and over on our guided small group tours. Before you book, it’s worth noting that these packages feature trips to distilleries and other activities catering to adults. Please also consider that triple rooms are not available from our accommodation providers.

If you’re travelling as a family or with younger kids, we recommend looking into our self-drive Scotland tours , as these offer more flexibility.

6. WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED?

You can begin each day full of energy as breakfast is provided each morning. On the nights when you are not staying in Edinburgh or Glasgow, your evening meals are also included. You can see exactly what meals are part of your tour package in the “what’s included” section.

While Scotland is known for interesting local delicacies like haggis and black pudding, there’s also a top-notch food scene here. Edinburgh and Glasgow in particular have a wide selection of places to eat. Venturing into the Scottish Highlands, you’ll get to sample plenty of delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood on the Isle of Skye .

If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know when you book so that we can make arrangements before you arrive.

7. WHAT SORT OF ROOMS WILL I BE STAYING IN?

You’ll be staying in hotels and guesthouses that have been handpicked for their comfort, cleanliness and friendly atmosphere. This means you can relax after a day of exploring, safe in the knowledge that each accommodation has been quality tested by our travel experts.

Usually double and twin rooms are available at our accommodation options. Please choose your preferred room type when you book so your travel consultant can make sure that everything is perfect for your trip.

If you’re booking onto a small group trip as a solo traveller to Scotland , you can rest assured that you’ll have your own private room. While not all tour providers would assign you a room of your own in this case, at Nordic Visitor your comfort and enjoyment is our priority.

It’s also worth noting that our hotels and guesthouses do not offer triple rooms.

8. WHAT LUGGAGE CAN I TAKE ON A SMALL GROUP TOUR?

You can bring one suitcase or large bag per person for your overnight items. We also recommend bringing a daypack for daily essentials, like a camera, extra layers and wallets.

Between overnight stops your luggage will travel with you on the minibus. In this case we ask that you please take your bag to your room on arrival and then back on to the bus for the next day’s drive.

Figuring out what to bring with you can be a challenge. Happily, you can refer to our handy Scotland packing guide for tips and advice on what you’ll need for your trip.

9. WILL THERE BE BATHROOM FACILITIES ON THE BUS?

To ensure you can get to all the best spots on your small group tour, you’ll be exploring Scotland in a minibus, rather than a large coach.

This means there aren't any bathroom facilities on the bus. But your guide and driver will factor in plenty of comfort breaks and opportunities to stretch your legs into each day’s journey.

10. HOW MUCH LEG ROOM WILL I HAVE?

Each of our minibuses has been chosen so that you can relax as you travel between stops. You’ll find that none of our tour buses are over 3 years old and there’s plenty of space onboard for everyone.

The standing height and seating room for most of our tour buses is designed to comfortably fit someone who is just above 6’4” (193 centimetres). Happily, this ensures that even most of our taller guests can travel with ease.

There will also be plenty of comfort breaks along the way where you can get some fresh air and take a short stroll.

11. DO YOU TIP YOUR TOUR GUIDE IN SCOTLAND?

Providing a gratuity is entirely up to you. In Scotland tipping your tour guide is not expected. Of course, if you’d like to show your gratitude with a tip, we’re sure your guide will appreciate it.

12. IS A SMALL GROUP TOUR THE BEST WAY TO TOUR SCOTLAND?

Many of our guests find that joining a small group tour makes for an immensely rewarding and hassle-free travel experience. You’ll get to meet and explore with like-minded people, while benefiting from the in-depth knowledge of your guide.

This is also the perfect way to discover Scotland if you’d prefer not to drive or would like company on your adventure but are travelling solo . Discover why a guided tour of Scotland is one of the best small group trips in Europe for solo travellers .

On the other hand, you could opt for one of our Scotland self-drive packages . Travelling independently is the best choice if you enjoy having plenty of flexibility and like going at your own pace.

Alternatively, if you’d rather have a guide but just want to go with friends and family, you could consider our escorted private tours in Scotland .

13. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

You can choose the departure that suits you best from the list of available start dates between May and September. If you have particular dates in mind, please make sure to book early in case that departure fills up.

You’ll also be able to see how many spaces are left on each start date when you check a trip’s online availability calendar. Remember, each tour operates with a maximum of 15 guests.

14. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Yes, it’s easy to extend your time in Scotland. When booking online you can add extra days in Edinburgh or Glasgow to explore independently before or after your Highlands tour. This is perfect if you want to soak up even more culture in Scotland’s vibrant cities. Explore these amazing things do do in Edinburgh for inspiration. 

If you’d like to include additional nights in your tour package but didn’t select this option when you booked online, please contact your travel consultant. They will check availability and make arrangements for you.

15. WHEN SHOULD I ORGANISE MY FLIGHTS?

We advise checking estimates for flight times and prices before booking your trip online. Once your tour is confirmed by email, usually within 2 working days, you can go ahead and purchase your flights.

Please get in touch with us if you have missed out on flights and we’ll do our best to accommodate a change of dates.

16. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY SCOTLAND TRIP?

In Scotland it’s possible to experience glorious sunshine and rain, all in one day. So although you might be travelling in summer, it’s best to be prepared for every season when deciding what to pack for your trip.

No matter the time of year, we recommend bringing:

• Walking boots or shoes with good grip
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Warm, insulated jacket
• Warm fleece or jumper
• Light base layers
• Warm hat, scarf and gloves
• Reusable water bottle
• UK plug adapter

You might also like to take an umbrella, handy if you find yourself spending a day touring the city sights in the rain. For more information, read our helpful packing guide for Scotland , complete with seasonal tips on what to bring.

Our Edinburgh-based travel experts will help you with any questions you may have about booking a tour of Scotland. Get in touch with us if you would like to know more or if you are ready to start planning your trip.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog Articles

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The Best Small Group Tours of Scotland

Small-group tours are a great way to sit back and relax while a professional driver whisks you around a carefully chosen selection of top Scottish attractions. You’ll never get lost, you’ll always take the scenic route, you won’t have the stress of dealing with busy roads, and you’ll be able to sample the occasional dram of whisky when you de-bus at each destination. Seriously, what’s not to like about that?!

Discover the best small group tours of Scotland in this comprehensive guide which includes itineraries for the best tours in the main tourist areas.

Small Group Tours of Scotland

While there are lots of small group bus operators running guided tours all over Scotland the biggest and best (in my opinion) is Rabbies. These guys have been going since 1993 and they have a small army of buses and drivers at their disposal with tours that head into the remotest regions of Scotland.

I’ve used them before, and I can recommend them to anyone visiting this country, not just because their drivers are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable but also because their website makes booking an absolute breeze and their prices are very reasonable.

Whenever I’ve used them I’ve found their coaches to be clean and modern and they go to all the best parts of the country so I honestly don’t think there’s any need to book with anyone else. The icing on the cake, however, is the fact they actively support Scotland’s local communities and they go all-out to be eco-friendly.

With that in mind, I’ll offer you a few suggestions in this article for small group bus tours you might like to take with Rabbies, all of which offer a different experience in different parts of Scotland. Please note that these tours are overviews of what Rabbies offer and the actual itineraries may change over time.

Small Group Tours of the Isle of Skye

Skye, or ‘the misty isle’ as it’s often called, offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Scotland. It’s on this west coast island (the second-largest in the country) that you’ll find yourself transported into a mythical landscape full of dramatic mountain peaks, crystal-clear lochs, windswept moors, and quaint villages. But it’s not just the landscapes that attract people to the Isle of Skye.

Fabulous restaurants, sumptuous hotels and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet are the order of the day wherever you go on this island which has more famous attractions than anywhere else in northern Britain, barring, perhaps, the city of Edinburgh .

Looking for breathtaking walks across landscapes forged by ancient landslides? Visit The Quiraing . Want to see amazing views across mountains from jaw-dropping clifftops? Visit The Old Man of Storr . Fancy swimming in the deepest blue pools of crystal-clear water you’ll ever see in your life? Then take a trip to The Fairy Pools .

Once you’ve had your fill of dramatic scenery you’ll be pleased to know the wildlife-spotting opportunities on Skye are also out of this world and there are guided tours to take you around the coastline to see golden eagles, basking sharks, dolphins, seals and even the occasional minke whale.

Highlights of a visit have to be wandering around Portree (the main village on the island which has amazing fish and chip shops), Dunvegan Castle (the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod), Neist Point lighthouse and Armadale Castle .

As a bonus, you’ll find Scotland’s most photogenic historic attraction – Eilean Donan Castle – a short drive (40-ish minutes) on the other side of the Skye Bridge. Clearly, Skye has something for everyone and a visit there offers more than enough activities to occupy the entirety of your holiday in Scotland.

It’s all too easy to miss the best sights if you don’t join a professionally-run organised tour that’s been designed to show you the maximum number of attractions in a fairly short space of time, but Rabbies come thundering to the rescue with a first-class collection of tours to choose from.

Take a look at a few of the ideas below for Isle of Skye tours that’ll blow your socks off.

Skye & Eilean Donan Castle 1-Day Tour

• Travel along the Great Glen fault line towards Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.
• Stop at Invermoriston and then head towards Skye – but not before stopping at Eilean Donan Castle.
• Cross the sea to Skye and follow the road up the east coast through the Red Cuillin mountains to Sligachan .
• Stop at Portree for food.
• Explore the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing.
• Head to Kyleakin to see Castle Moil then cross the Skye Bridge and finish the tour in Inverness .

Note: departures for this tour are from Inverness, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Isle of Skye 3-Day Tour

Itinerary day 1:

• Travel across the Highlands and the fault line past Loch Lubnaig and Rannoch Moor.
• Continue through Glencoe, stop for lunch, and pass Ben Nevis.
• Continue into the Great Glen and head towards Eilean Donan.
• Stop at the castle for photos.
• Cross the Skye Bridge and drive to Portree.

Itinerary day 2:

Explore Skye depending on the weather. Visit the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Quiraing and/or Dunvegan Castle.

Itinerary day 3:

• Travel back through the Cuillin Hills before heading onto the mainland.
• Head towards Loch Ness and stop at the loch for lunch.
• Continue past the Grampian mountains, Loch Laggan and Dalwhinnie (home of Dalwhinnie whisky).
• Travel past Blair Castle .

Isle of Skye 4-Day Tour

Itinerary day 1 :

• From Edinburgh travel northwest past The Kelpies artworks.
• Stop for lunch at the rural village of Callander.
• Continue through the Highlands past Rannoch Moor.
• Travel to Glencoe.
• Drive alongside Loch Linnhe and stop overnight at Fort William.

Itinerary day 2 :

• From Fort William pass the Glenfinnan viaduct (as seen in the Harry Potter movies).
• Continue to the coastal port of Mallaig and take the ferry to Skye.
• Explore the Sleat Peninsula, the Glenbrittle waterfall and/or the Cuillin mountains.
• Stay overnight in the Lochalsh area of Skye.

Itinerary day 3 :

Visit the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and Neist Point, dependent on the weather.

Itinerary day 4 :

• Travel back to the mainland through Glen Shiel, past Loch Cluanie and towards Ben Nevis.
• Drive past the Monadhliath mountains in the central highlands and stop in the village of Dunkeld to see the cathedral.
• Travel south through the Lowlands to return to Edinburgh.

Small Group Scotch Whisky and Distillery Tours

Whisky has links to Scotland in a way that no other product has to any other country. Uisge beatha  (to use its Gaelic name, or ‘the water of life’ in English), has been distilled in Scotland for at least five hundred years and likely has a history stretching back even further than that.

It’s known that Irish monks brought some of the first samples of their distilled spirits to the Isle of Skye in the 14th century and from there the process of making whisky was refined across the Highlands as canny Scots realised there was money to be made in the whisky trade.

There are five main Scotch whisky regions to discover when you embark on a whisky tour of Scotland, and each is unique for the style of whisky they produce. Speyside in the northeast is generally light and sweet; Highlands whisky is light and smoky; Lowland produces light and fruity single malts; Campbeltown is a mixture of peat and fruit; and Islay whisky is heavily peated.

A whisky tour is a great way to see the more off-the-beaten-path areas of Scotland as many of the distilleries were built long before the tourist industry was imagined and you’ll find the country’s 120 distilleries spread far and wide from seafront to mountainside.

Nearly all of Scotland’s distilleries have visitor centres and organised walk-around tours and many of them also have their own cafes so you’ll never struggle to find somewhere to eat. And you might even have the time to sample a few drams afterwards.

Speyside Whisky & Moray Firth 1-Day Tour

• Depart Inverness and travel east to the Moray Firth coastline.
• Stop at the Benromach distillery.
• Drive to and stop at the coastal village of Findhorn.
• Continue to Elgin to see Elgin Cathedral.
• Head south to the River Spey and stop for photos.
• Continue to the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown for a tour.
• Visit Balvenie Castle.
• Return to Inverness via the River Fiddich and the Speyside Cooperage.

Cairngorms & Speyside Whisky 1-Day Tour

• Depart Inverness and drive south to the Cairngorms National Park.
• Stop at the forest village of Carrbridge then continue towards Aviemore.
• Head to Glenmore Forest Park to either go for a woodland walk around Loch Morlich or stop at the loch’s beach and visitor centre for refreshments.
• Drive to the town of Grantown-on-Spey for lunch.
• Follow the River Spey to Dufftown and the Glenfiddich distillery.
• Take a guided tour around the distillery before visiting nearby Balvenie Castle.
• Return to Inverness.

Islay & the Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

• From Edinburgh head to the Highlands and stop at the Trossachs National Park for food.
• Continue through the West Highlands towards the coastal town of Oban.
• Take a tour around the Oban distillery and have a seafood lunch.
• Visit Kilmartin Glen to see the ancient standing stones.
• Take the evening ferry to Islay.
• Once on Islay head to Bowmore for overnight accommodation.
• Take a tour of the Bowmore Distillery.
• Visit Ardnahoe Distillery for a tour and lunch.
• Visit Kilchoman distillery for a tour and a whisky tasting.
• Return to Bowmore.
• Visit the Ardbeg distillery for a tour and lunch.
• Visit the Laphroaig distillery.
• Explore Kildaton church and Dunyvaig castle.
• Visit Lagavulin Distillery for a tour and a tasting.

Itinerary day 4:

• Take the ferry back to the mainland and drive south through the Highlands.
• Stop at the village of Inveraray on the banks of Loch Fyne.
• Continue to Loch Lomond and stop for photos.
• Return to Edinburgh.

Loch Ness and Loch Lomond Small Group Tours

Loch Ness needs no introduction, as it’s one of the most famous bodies of water in the world, mainly because of the legend of the secretive monster that lives somewhere deep within its murky depths.

You’ll find the loch north of Fort Augustus and south of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, more-or-less midway between Skye and the Cairngorms National Park, and to be honest, even if the legend of the monster had never surfaced, the loch would still be a haven for tourists.

Not only is it surprisingly big at 23 miles in length it’s incredibly deep at 750 feet, so it’s no small wonder that many people believe something strange can hide away from prying eyes at the bottom.

The waters are heavily stained with peat which makes the surface pitch black and glassy, and with the setting sun bouncing off the surface it’s a magical place – although be aware that it gets very busy with crowds of tourists in the peak season.

Luckily for you though, Rabbies guides are well versed in making sure you see the loch in all its glory away from the heaving crowds which is something I bet all those noses pressed up against the windows of the big coaches will be highly envious of.

Popular attractions at Loch Ness are Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre but a visit can also include a boat cruise along its length as well as trips into the popular loch-side villages of Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus.

Loch Lomond meanwhile, lies in the Trossachs National Park on the west coast of Scotland, around 40 miles north of Glasgow. In my opinion, this is one of the nicest parts of the country, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the great outdoors.

There are too many places to list in one short article but highlights have to be a visit to Loch Lomond (obviously), Balloch Castle Country Park which lies on the southern edge of the loch, Ben Lomond which has a lovely walking trail around it, and Loch Katrine which is just as scenic as Loch Lomond but is much quieter.

The Complete Loch Ness Experience 1-Day Tour

• Depart Inverness and follow the Caledonian Canal to Loch Ness.
• Either go on a 1-hour cruise around the loch or a 30-minute cruise to Urquhart Castle.
• Visit the village of Drumnadrochit near Loch Ness for lunch.
• Visit the village of Invermoriston before heading to Fort Augustus for photos.
• Travel along the side of the loch to visit the Falls of Foyers waterfall.
• Head to the eastern end of the loch at Dores.

Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands 2-Day Tour

• Depart Edinburgh and head north towards the Highlands.
• Stop at a town in the Highlands for a break, then continue into the Cairngorms National Park.
• Choose an activity from whisky distilleries, forest walks, or exploring historic sites.
• Stop for food then continue to the overnight accommodation in Inverness.
• Travel to Loch Ness to either take a cruise on the loch or explore Urquhart Castle.
• Travel through the Great Glen past Ben Nevis and Fort William.
• Stop for lunch and continue to Glencoe.
• Drive through Rannoch Moor and continue onwards to Stirling.
• Arrive back in Edinburgh.

Loch Lomond Cruise & Whisky 1-Day Tour

• Depart Glasgow and head to Loch Lomond.
• Take a 1-hour boat cruise on the loch and see Inchmurrin Island.
• Travel to the village of Luss for photos.
• Leave the Loch Lomond area and head to the Clydeside whisky distillery in Glasgow.
• Return to Glasgow city centre.

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

• Depart Edinburgh and head to Loch Lomond via Linlithgow Palace .
• Stop at The Kelpies artworks.
• Drive to Loch Lomond and walk the lochside trails.
• Drive into the Trossachs National Park.
• Stop for lunch in the park before continuing to Stirling Castle .

Scottish Highlands Small Group Tours

Most descriptions of the Scottish Highlands tend to go into a superlative overload when it comes to describing the region, and with good reason. The Highlands are wild in every sense of the word, full of stunning mountainscapes and secluded glens and there’s simply no better place to see Scotland’s wildlife.

A tour of the Highlands will let you see herds of red deer and our famously hairy Highland Cows across landscapes that are as diverse as they are hauntingly beautiful.

Barren moors give way to dense forests which in turn pause at the foot of the most majestic mountains you could possibly imagine, interspersed with battle-ravaged castles and rustic villages. Visit any of these locations as the sun rises when there’s a low-lying mist and I guarantee you’ll get goosebumps.

Popular places to visit in the Highlands are Glen Etive , Ben Nevis , and Glencoe but as the area is so vast (it’s the biggest region of Scotland, covering over 10,000 square miles) you’ll need to do a bit of research when deciding which parts of it you want to see.

The Highlands are defined by a geological fault line that stretches north of Glasgow to Stonehaven in the northeast, and it’s this Highland boundary that is the reason why the north-west region of Scotland is so mountainous.

Head to the far north in the area around Wick and you’ll find it’s quite a flat landscape, but travel west along the coastline and you’ll notice the terrain quickly becomes alpine with towering mountains and deep gulleys around every corner.

I reckon the section of the west coast from Ullapool to Durness is the most beautiful place in Scotland, but you’ll be equally well rewarded if you visit Applecross (the Bealach na Ba pass is one of the highest roads in the country, reaching 2,053 feet) and Braemar which hosts the Royal Highland Games.

If you have the time try to give Bidean Nam Bian mountain a look and maybe visit Glenfinnan on the Jacobite Steam Train , or explore the Cairngorms if you want an alternative to the Nevis mountain range.

As I said, you’ll need to research which parts of the Highlands you really want to see if you intend to include it in your Scotland itinerary as there’s so much on offer, but the tours listed below will make a great starting point for your adventures.

Glen Affric & Highland Villages 1-Day Tour

• Depart Inverness and head to Strathpeffer village to explore the area.
• Drive to Beauly and explore Beauly Priory. Stop for lunch.
• Travel to Glen Affric and stop for a woodland walk.
• Travel to Loch Ness then return to Inverness.

Torridon, Applecross & Eilean Donan Castle 1-Day Tour

• Depart Inverness and head into the Northern Highlands.
• Stop for photos at Loch Maree.
• Drive to the Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve Visitor Centre and take photos of the area.
• Drive to the Torridon mountains before stopping at the town of Sheildaig for refreshments.
• Continue to Applecross and stop for food in a local pub.
• Drive along the Bealach na Bà road.
• Head to Loch Duich and visit Eilean Donan Castle.
• Drive through the Kintail mountain range, loch Ness and the Great Glen.
• Arrive back in Inverness.

West Highland Lochs & Castles 1-Day Tour

• Depart Edinburgh and head in the direction of Stirling to arrive at Doune Castle.
• Visit the castle then continue through Callander to Loch Lubnaig.
• Stop at Loch Lubnaig, then drive to the Braes of Balquhidder.
• Continue to Kilchurn Castle and visit the loch and castle ruins before stopping for lunch.
• Head to Loch Awe and stop at the town of Inveraray near Loch Fyne.
• Explore the old jail in Inveraray and Inveraray Castle before continuing through the Arrochar Alps. Stop along the way for photos.
• Drive along Loch Long towards Loch Lomond. Stop at the village of Luss.
• Continue towards Stirling Castle for photos.

Small Group Tours of Scotland’s Islands

Scotland’s islands are mostly found on the west and north coasts with Mull, Skye, Islay and Arran on the west and Shetland and Orkney on the north. Those aren’t all the islands by any means (there are nearly 800 in total) but they’re the most popular and you’ll find guided tours that visit each of them at all times of the year.

I’ve visited all the ‘big’ tourist islands over the years so I can safely say I’ve got my favourites but to be honest they’re all wonderful places to visit and each one has something different to offer tourists.

We’ve already looked at Skye but many visitors seem to forget about the Isle of Mull which I think is almost as pretty but is much quieter, with a more accessible coastline and a general atmosphere that feels more remote (I guess because there’s no bridge from the mainland, unlike on Skye).

Highlights of a trip to Mull are Iona Abbey , Duart Castle and Ben More , but if you manage to visit it yourself I also recommend a look around the main town of Tobermory, the Carsaig Arches in the south and a walk to Quinish Point in the north.

There’s also the gorgeous Treshnish Isles to the west if you want to see lots of sea life, including some impossibly cute puffins . Islay is another incredible west coast island, but it’s more famous for its whisky distilleries than its landscapes, which is a shame because the beaches and nature reserves are some of the best in Scotland.

I’ve written guides about Visiting Islay as well as Visiting the Islay Whisky Distilleries but if you want to get away from the usual tourist hotspots check out Finlaggan which is the former stronghold of the Lords of the Isles, Claggain Bay which is a stunning estuary (visit it when the tide is out – it’s one of those ‘wow’ moments), and The Oa which is a nature reserve on the southern coast of the island.

If you’re a new visitor to Scotland I highly recommend Arran as you’ll see pretty much all the regions of the country across the island’s 167 square miles, from mountain to forest and loch to glen. If you manage to visit Arran yourself you’ll soon understand why this west-coast island has the nickname ‘Scotland in miniature’.

Regular CalMac  ferries sail out of Tarbert, Claonaig and Ardrossan with the Claonaig ferry taking just 30 minutes. That means it’s perfectly possible to include the island in a day trip from Glasgow, but if you really want to see the sights (the village of Brodick and the mountain of Goatfell are recommended) you should try to spend at least three nights there.

If you’d rather just visit for a quick spin around the island on your bike you can easily pop over to Brodick from Arran and cycle around the Arran Coastal Way for a few hours before returning on the same route or deviating to Lochranza and taking the ferry to the Campbeltown peninsula. Both options are highly recommended for a biking road trip.

Shetland and Orkney lie at the northern tip of Scotland with Orkney sitting much closer to the edge of the mainland (it’s around 50 miles from Wick on the mainland to Kirkwall on Orkney) and Shetland lying further out around 180 miles from Wick.

There are ferries to both islands from the mainland as well as flights but for a quick taste of Viking-infused culture, I’d personally choose Orkney over its northern cousin. In addition to the Skara Brae prehistoric village, there’s the Ring of Brodgar (an ancient stone circle) and the St. Magnus Cathedral on Orkney, as well as a wild and rugged coastline to explore across the archipelago of islands.

Mull & Iona 3-Day Tour

• From Glasgow, head to Loch Lomond and stop at the village of Luss.
• Continue through Glencoe and stop for lunch in a traditional pub.
• Travel to the port of Lochaline and take the ferry to the Isle of Mull.
• Visit Aros Park before heading to Tobermory.
• Depart Tobermory and head to the south of the island.
• Take the short ferry to the Isle of Iona.
• Explore Iona and Iona Abbey.
• Take a boat trip to the Island of Staffa and Fingals Cave.
• Return to Tobermory.
• Depart Tobermory and travel to Craignure for the ferry to the mainland.
• Stop in Oban to explore the town and have lunch.
• Head to Kilmartin Glen and stop to explore the site.
• Continue to Inverary and Loch Fyne to explore the area.
• Return to Glasgow.

Outer Hebrides & the Highlands 5-Day Tour

• Depart Edinburgh and head towards the village of Dunkeld in the Scottish Highlands.
• Explore Dunkeld Cathedral then continue towards the Grampian Mountains. Stop for lunch.
• Travel to Loch Ness for photos then visit Corrieshalloch Gorge.
• Spend the night in the village of Ullapool.
• Take the ferry to the Outer Hebridean islands of Harris and Lewis.
• Drive across the islands and explore the northwest coast.
• Spend the evening in Stornoway.
• Explore the landscapes of Harris.
• Stop for lunch then visit the Callanish stone circle .
• Visit the stone fort of Dun Carloway.
• Return to Stornoway.
• Continue exploring the Harris and Lewis landscapes.
• Visit the Arnol Blackhouse and stop for lunch.
• Return to Stornoway then take the ferry back to the mainland.
• Travel to Inverness for overnight accommodation.

Itinerary day 5:

• Depart Inverness and travel to Tomintoul village in the Highlands.
• Travel to the River Dee and visit the Royal Lochnagar whisky distillery.
• Head to the village of Braemar for lunch.
• Travel through Perthshire and stop at Scone Palace .

Isle of Arran 3-Day Tour

• Depart Glasgow and travel through Europe’s largest wind farm.
• Continue through Ayrshire to Culzean Castle. Stop for lunch in the castle grounds.
• Visit the Robert Burns Museum in Alloway.
• Continue to Ardrossan and catch the ferry to the Isle of Arran.
• Spend the night in the village of Brodick.
• Explore Arran by visiting the Arran distillery, and Lochranza castle as well as several of the island’s beaches.
• Visit Machrie Moor stone circle.
• Travel south to the harbour village of Blackwaterfoot.
• Return to Brodick
• Return to the mainland via the Kintyre Peninsula.
• Travel to the Highland fishing village of Tarbert.
• Continue to Loch Fyne and stop at the village of Inveraray for lunch
• Drive to the village of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond and stop for photos.
• Rabbie’s small group tours of the UK and Ireland .
• Books about Scotland from Amazon .
• Hiking gear from Amazon .
• Buy OS Landranger maps direct from Ordnance Survey.
• Pre-book Scottish tourist attractions from Viator. Reserve now pay later .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are sufficient for scotland.

It’s difficult to say exactly how many days are needed for a holiday in Scotland as it depends on the individual and what they want to see and do while they’re there.

Scotland is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from stunning landscapes and historic castles to vibrant cities and world-class museums. It’s possible to spend two weeks in Scotland and still only scratch the surface of what the country has to offer.

What is the best way to tour Scotland?

There are many different ways to tour Scotland, and the best way will depend on your personal preferences and interests.

Some people prefer to travel by car which allows them to explore the country at their own pace and visit more remote areas. Others prefer to take a guided bus tour which can provide a more in-depth look at the country’s history and culture.

Additionally, many people enjoy travelling by train which allows them to take in the beautiful scenery while getting from place to place. Ultimately, the best way to tour Scotland is to plan a trip that suits your interests and budget.

Is a group tour cheaper than an individual tour?

It’s possible that a group tour could be cheaper than an individual tour, but this is not always the case. The cost of a tour can depend on a variety of factors such as the length of the tour, the number of people in the group, and the types of activities and experiences included.

In some cases, group tours may offer discounts for larger groups which can make them more affordable. However, individual tours may also offer discounts or special deals so it’s always best to compare prices and read reviews before deciding on a tour.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Scottish Highlands

Scotland’s handsome heights.

You know when you watch a movie and think 'That place can't possibly exist, it must be CGI'? That's why travellers and photographers, poets, filmmakers, and dreamers have continuously found themselves drawn to the Scottish Highlands .

Haven't been yet? Can't picture it? Imagine a place of wild beauty and mystery; where spectacular mountains overlook deep lochs. A place where battle-ravaged castles are spectators of the peaceful wildlife.

The Highlands are a mystical location and more than just a visit to the iconic landmarks of Loch Ness and Glencoe.

Tour the Highlands on our small group tours of up to 16 people and experience the stories, scenery, and incredible traditions.

Explore Scottish Highlands tours

Why you'll love the Highlands

Lovely Landscapes

Some landscapes tell tales of terrible battles. Others feel like they’re home to giants and fairies. Whereas many are so stunning, you’re stopped in your tracks. From barren moors to dense forests, you don’t need to delve deep into the Highlands to find beauty.

Wonderful Wildlife

In the evening, you hear the owls cry. In the morning, you see silhouettes of stags in the forests. And by the sea, you can admire thrashing whales and dolphins. Scotland’s Highlands are abundant with wildlife; so it’s a good idea to bring wildlife books and binoculars on your tour.

Curious Castles

Mysteries lie within. Like a hidden passageway. A strange portrait looming above you in a dark hallway. A wall torn to shreds by violence and time. The castles of Scotland display their history proudly. They sigh over their own ruinous state, welcoming your admiration over all they’ve endured.

Heartfelt Hospitality

Quaint and snug cottages. Large and eerie castles. Cosy and traditional pubs. No matter where you go in the Highlands, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome. Highland hospitality is genuine and typically involves a hearty meal shared amongst new and old friends.

Scottish Highland Tours

Select by month

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands - 1 day tour

Monsters and mountains: this is the best way to see the best of Scotland, from Glencoe to Loch Ness.

Prices from £69.00

DEPARTING FROM: Edinburgh

Skye & Eilean Donan Castle - 1 day tour

Experience your own slice of heaven on Scotland's most famous island.

Prices from £68.00

DEPARTING FROM: Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park, Kelpies & Stirling Castle - 1 day tour

Step back in time and discover the legends, landscapes, and landmarks that defined Scottish history.

Prices from £57.00

Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Iconic castles. Tales of old clan rivalries. Brilliant mountain scenery. This is the Scottish Highlands.

Prices from £56.00

DEPARTING FROM: Glasgow

The Isle of Skye - 3 day tour

Roam the breathtaking Isle of Skye and its beautifully unique landscape that's something out of a dream.

Prices from £225.00

Prices from £67.00

West Highlands, Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Capture the spirit of the Western Highlands and explore Scotland's most atmospheric lochs and castles.

Prices from £64.00

The Complete Loch Ness Experience - 1 day tour

Your ultimate Loch Ness adventure, from frothy waterfalls to cosy villages and maybe a monster or two.

Prices from £40.00

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Cruise - 1 day tour

What do you love more? The grandeur of Stirling Castle or the beauty of Loch Lomond? We can't decide.

Prices from £49.00

Glen Affric, Culloden & Clava Cairns - 1 day tour

A true Highland adventure exploring 'Scotland's most beautiful glen' and learning about Culloden.

Prices from £44.00

Isle of Skye & West Highlands - 4 day tour

Travel to where ancient mountains meet thrilling myths, where beauty waits in every forest and mountain.

Prices from £289.00

Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands - 2 day tour

Explore the majesty of Loch Ness, the Caledonian pine forest and the Cairngorms National Park.

Prices from £130.00

Scotland Small Group Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 15 most popular scotland small group trips. compare tour itineraries from 21 tour companies. 7 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating., popular scotland small group tours.

The Scottish Experience

• A relaxed paced tour of Scotland
• Explore the cities as well as the country and lakes
• Days spent in Edinburgh, where your upgraded accommodations are in the heart of the attractions, shopping and dining.
• Days spend outside of the city to enjoy your hotel in a beautiful park setting that offers spa resort-like amenities.
• Limited tour group size

Kayaking, Walking & Whisky

• Visit Old Inverlochy Castle
• Visit Glen Coe
• Explore Eilean Shona

In the Heart of the Scottish Highlands

• Join historians as they offer a view into Highland Scotland’s ancient history, the downfall of Gaelic clans, the Highland Clearances and New World emigration.
• Discover the castles, clan lands and romance of the famous Isle of Skye.
• Step back in time at Stirling Castle, one of the largest and most historically important castles in Scotland.

Walking in the Lake District and Scotland

• Take a boat ride on the most beautiful of the Lakes — Derwentwater — before ascending the distinctive fell of Cat Bells for spectacular views.
• Follow in the footsteps of the Romantic poets at Wordsworth's Grasmere and Dove Cottage.
• Walk part of the upland Pennine Way National Trail, chasing the Pennine Mountain tops along the rugged backbone of England.

Norway and Scotland: Fjordlands to the Inner Hebrides

• Kayak the mirror-like waters of Norway’s Sognefjorden, and discover hidden inlets by Zodiac.
• Spot puffins, guillemots, and razorbills along the cliffs of Noss, and visit a renowned seabird research station on Fair Isle—located on the migration flyway.
• Hike to the lighthouse at Sumburgh Head, explore splendid gardens at Loch Ewe, and dive the historic wrecks of Scapa Flow.
• Discover an archaeological treasure trove: Viking longhouses in the Shetlands, Stone Age megaliths in the Orkneys, and the sacred Christian sites of Iona.

Best of Scotland in 10 Days Tour

• See the best of Edinburgh on foot, starting with a walking tour of the Royal Mile
• See of the historic buildings, quaint shops, narrow lanes, and hidden courtyards.
• Visit the history of this land at the impressive National Museum of Scotland
• Enjoy a favorite Scottish past time by taking a walk through the spectacular landscape of the well-preserved Cairngorms National Park.
• The Clava Cairns, an impressive collection of prehistoric burial chambers, and enjoy a picnic in this serene setting

The Isle of Skye

• Eilean Donan Castle - An iconic and gorgeous 13th century castle that once warded off Viking invasions.
• Glencoe - Be moved by the sheer beauty and tragic tales of one of Scotland’s most famous landscapes.
• Quiraing Mountain Pass - Skye’s outstanding geological stunner. These strange formations gave Skye its nickname, the ‘Winged Isle’.
• Neist Point - The location of a dramatic lighthouse and a great place to spot dolphins, whales, porpoises, and basking sharks.
• Five Sisters of Kintail - Legend says a local wizard turned five sisters into these mountains so he could preserve their beauty.

Scotland: Highlands and Islands

• Well-paced journey through Scotland
• Glasgow touring
• Glasgow’s unique architecture
• Private curator-guided tour of Pollok House
• Beautiful Scottish Highlands scenery, including Loch Lomond, Trossachs National Park, Glencoe, Loch Ness

All Scotland Small Group , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Scotland Small Group

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Trip reviews, castles, kilts and whisky - oh my.

My trip to Scotland was amazing! There was something for everyone to enjoy. From the beautiful landscapes, sheep everywhere, botanical gardens, Queen's yacht &...

Wonderful Tour

The tour was a wonderful experience

The tour company really takes the time to find find great locations and provide time to relax.

BE WARNED CANCELLATION FEE ALWAYS CHARGED

BE WARNED THEY CHARGE 10% CANCELLATION WITH ANY CANCELLATION. We have 7 months before we leave for our trip and just made the reservation less than a week ago and th...

The trip is worth-taking.

The tour was comfortably-paced tours and covered most of the best sights around the Isle of Sky. It was better than expected because our guide had us experience bits...

Wonderful experience

It was our first experience with a guided tour. We didn't know what we could expect. We came back with wonderful memories. Matt, our guide was marvelous! He always t...

See all Scotland Small Group reviews

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Private Tours of Scotland

Tour Scotland with

Little scottish treasures .

For travelers embarking on a Scottish adventure, look no further than Little Scottish Treasures. We are a family company based a short distance from both Edinburgh & Glasgow offering a diverse range of private tours, which combine sightseeing, culture, fun and adventure, either within our award winning tailor made itineraries, or one of our popular private tours of Scotland, we are dedicated to crafting a vacation that exceeds your expectations.

Multi Day Tours

Make the most of your Scottish vacation with one of our celebrated multi day tours of Scotland

Private Day Tours

Choose from some of the best Scottish day tours on the market leaving from Glasgow or Edinburgh

Ancestry Tours

Walk in the footsteps of your ancestors or visit the home of your GG Granddad during an exquisite private tour

Bespoke Tours

Be sure to visit your must see locations or add a twist to your trip with a bespoke private Scottish tour

Customer reviews.

Lising Family California

"Absolutely stunning day and tour. We are blown away by the care and detail put into our day, by Peter and Carolina. We saw everything on our bucket list and then some. The stories and explanations of historical significance, dates, names, atmosphere is incredible to learn along the way as Peter draws such a rich picture for even the first time Scotland traveler to imagine. We were not disappointed, returned home happily exhausted and felt like we had time traveled through the entire day."

Donna & Stella South Carolina

"We had an INCREDIBLE private tour through Scotland thanks to Little Scottish Treasures! Jamie McPhail, our guide and driver, was exceptional! He was so knowledgeable and entertaining! He went out of his way to make sure we had a great tour and didn’t miss anything. When we had heavy rains one day, he rearranged the schedule on the spot. Scotland was the highlight of our three weeks in the UK thanks to Jamie and Little Scottish Treasures!"

Lolanda & Amigas Barcelona

Recomendable 100%. Un tour personalizado de acuerdo con aquello que más te interesa, añadiendo lugares preciosos y llenos de historia. Escocia es increible, pero haciendo el tour con Little Scottish Treasures es aún mejor. La calidez y dedicación de Carolina y Jamie, junto con su entusiasmo y conocimiento del país e historia, han hecho del viaje una experiencia fantástica.

A Private Scottish Tour: The best way to experience all that Scotland has to offer.

Scotland, is a land of ancient castles, rolling hills, and dramatic landscapes, a dream destination for many travelers. But if you want to truly immerse yourself in Scottish culture and experience the country's natural beauty like never before, a private Scottish tour with Little Scottish Treasures is the perfect way to go.

Little Scottish Treasures is a local family run company that specializes in providing personalized, small-group tours of Scotland. Our experienced guides will take you on a journey through the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Skye, Scottish Borders and beyond, introducing you to the country's rich history, culture, and natural wonders.

On our private tours, you'll have the opportunity to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that most visitors miss. You'll also have the chance to tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether you're passionate about history, nature, whisky, or something else entirely.

Here are just a few of the reasons why a private Scottish tour with us is the best way to see Scotland:

Personalized Attention: We will ensure that your tour is tailored to your interests and preferences. This means that you'll have the flexibility to explore the places and activities that most excite you.

Small-Group Experience: Our tours are limited to small groups of up to 8 people, which ensures a more intimate and personalized experience. This also means that we can get off the beaten path and visit places that are off-limits to larger groups.

Expert Local Guides: Our guides are passionate about Scotland and are eager to share their knowledge with you. During your private tour they will provide you with insights into Scottish history, culture, and natural beauty that you won't find anywhere else.

Flexibility and Adaptability: We are able to adapt our itineraries to suit your needs, whether you need to make changes due to weather or other circumstances. We are also flexible with the starting and ending points of our tour.

Unique Experiences: We will take you to some of the less-visited places in Scotland, like hidden castles, scenic viewpoints, and local farms. We will also introduce you to local traditions and customs that you won't find on mass-market tours.

Sustainable Tourism: We are committed to responsible tourism and we will use local suppliers whenever possible. We will also minimize our impact on the environment, such as by using eco-friendly transportation and accommodations.

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Scotland or a seasoned traveler, a private Scottish tour with Little Scottish Treasures is an experience you won't forget.

Some of the Highlights of our Tours:

Exploring the Scottish Highlands, including Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Ness, and Eilean Donan Castle.

Discover the magic of the Isle of Skye, with its stunning scenery, ancient castles, and charming villages.

Visit a traditional whisky distillery and learn about the history and production of Scotland's national drink.

Take a scenic drive along the North Coast 500, Scotland's newest long-distance driving route.

Contact us today to book your private tour of Scotland. We can't wait to show you the beauty of our home and share our passion for this incredible country with you.

 For more to do in Scdotland's capital city visit https://www.kayak.co.uk/Edinburgh.29671.guide

• 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
• Departure Point
• Gift Vouchers
• Accommodation Explained
• Our Story – The Wee Red Bus
• John Muir Trust
• Our Vehicles
• 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 - mini group bus tours in Scotland

Mini group tours 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 mini 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 2025 mini 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

Guaranteed Hairy Coos!

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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Scotland Tour Companies

List of scotland travel companies & tour operators with 189625 reviews.

MacBackpackers

• Excellent - 2,654 reviews for Scotland tours

This was hands-down the best tour I have ever been a part of! Branka and Arron were phenomenal -- they truly went above and beyond in every way possible. We all felt so welcomed and like so much a part of the group. This is genuinely the best way to see the Highlands and get to know other people. We had so much fun and established true connections with those in our group all thanks to Branka and Arron's fabulous leadership. I am so lucky to have been a part of this group and will remember it forever!

This is the third time I've done a tour with Macbackpackers and I would do another in a heartbeat! Our tourguide, Neil, was awesome and made sure that everyone had an incredible time! There were so many breathtaking views to see, beautiful walks and hikes to do and lots of fun to be had, all whilst learning so much about the history of the area. Neil entertained and enlightened us with stories throughout the trips and introduced us to some cool new music. Would recommend this tour to anybody and everybody.

Highland Experience Tours

• Excellent - 237 reviews for Scotland tours

The3 day Skye tour was fantastic. Our driver/tour guide Chris was extremely informative and entertaining. The B&B in Inverness was excellent with helpful and welcomig staff and a very hearty hot breakfast. The tour was well paced.

Everything went according to plan

Intrepid Premium

• Excellent - 322 reviews for Scotland tours
• This operator has no Scotland reviews

Royal Irish Tours

• Excellent - 28 reviews for Scotland tours

The trip was quite fun for the most part, but the schedule was very tight and left very little time for eating, sleeping, and taking in the sights around Scotland.

An excellent tour of Scotland! We enjoyed it immensely. Our tour guide, Alan, was great. He was so knowledgeable & friendly. He led us on walking tours where we learned the local history & stories of the places we visited.

Europamundo

• Good - 4,362 reviews for Scotland tours

Really want to comment on the last leg of our tour, which was Ireland. Our guide was exceptional, extremely knowledgeable on Irish history recent and past. Genuinely interested in what the travellers were interested in and what they wanted to get out of their experience. In addition he demonstrated accountability and a duty of care to all aspects of the trip. Can not thank him enough and could not thank him enough. Thanks to Jose.

I appreciate having the information of the tour that can be found in My Trip, especially the detailed itinerary with time, list of hotels and the visa letter. Our guide, Raquel, was great I liked very much how she managed our tour. I also liked how she managed other passengers who always come late during meeting time before the bus leaves. I appreciate very much that the bus has usb charger. The things I did not like was that our bus temperature was too hot during our trip from London to Cambridge, it caused me headache. Me, together with most of the passengers were complaining and wanted to change bus instead of us having to endure that kind of temperature for the entire trip. Maybe the driver do not yet know how to operate the temperature controls, since I heard he has just received his license? Good thing it was resolved later in that day. There was an instance that i felt our driver, Justin, have been rude to me during our Day 4 tour in Edinburgh. He raised his voice to me when he saw me carrying my tripod while entering the bus. Maybe because my tripod was unfolded that time around 1.2-meter long when unfolded He scolded that I should have put it in the bus compartment, together with the luggages. My tripod was unfolded because I was running from outside, going into the bus because of sudden heavy snow/rain. Of course I did not have time to fold my tripod and put it inside my carrying bag because I was in a rush and was already getting drenched. I always carry my tripod inside the bus in all of my trips, and that was the first time that I was scolded for bringing a tripod in a bus, and I believe that bringing tripod inside the bus is not prohibited, as long as it does not bother other passengers or case safety hazard/issues. Please educate me if it really is prohibited. If it is not, please educate Justin. Despite those two incidents, I am overall happy with the trip. I will avail another trips with Europamundo in the future, and will recommend Europamundo to others.

• Excellent - 74,918 reviews for Scotland tours

The trip was great.

Excellent trip it delivered what we were expecting, and more.

Culture Trip

• Excellent - 251 reviews for Scotland tours

The only let down was when the coach left the tour, and taxis and trains with the luggage was a struggle. Hotel selection, excursions, and guide were all first class. Had a very uncomfortable trip up to Glasgow, coach had no cooling, arrived ridiculously late, no arrangements regarding food, from time of meeting at 16.30 until breakfast the next morning.

Our tour guide, Tony Walker, was excellent. Since this was a first for this itinerary, there were a lot of travel issues and Tony was great at solving them. Culture Tours need to acknowledge how good a tour guide and leader he was for them. Here are my comments, in no special order. - More trip details as very vague in the itinerary, i.e. daily timetables for stops - Timely receipt of changes to original schedule of events - Notification of roommate and contact info when sharing room (prior to trip start) - Daily events need to be better scheduled. Too many crammed into some days causing early starts and late day endings. - Long distances to each night's stop causing long days on coach and trains - More centrally located hotels with dining options nearby. - Disliked hotel in Inverness. Staff almost rude and not helpful when we wanted a cab. Way too far from the city center. No amenities in the room - i.e. soap, shampoo, lotions, etc. - Name tags for tour members

Insight Vacations

• Excellent - 651 reviews for Scotland tours

The tour with the sites that we visited was great. Alison, out tour director, was wonderful, very knowledgeable. Arthur, our bus driver was also great. Our one day tour guide and bus driver, Ann, was also great. I was not so impressed with the breakfast menu of cooked food. It was the same at every hotel. They need to change up the menu.

Greg Colgin was our travel director and made the trip memorable. He is knowledgeable, caring, extremely organized, and concerned about our wellbeing. He made the trip fun with his little extras. The itinerary was good. We saw a lot in the amount of time we had.

Highland Explorer Tours

• Excellent - 439 reviews for Scotland tours

Steve was a terrific tour guide. He had the enthusiasm and story telling qualities that make a good tour a great tour. Great value tour.

We had a wonderful 3 day Highlands/ Isle of Skye tour with Tiegan - who was absolutely great. She had great history stories to share with us all - tips on places to eat - had a great sense of humor and overall made the 3 day tour a lot of fun.

Intrepid Travel

• Excellent - 11,794 reviews for Scotland tours

Wonderful guides! They were always helpful, happy and friendly and really made the trip smooth and successful. The hikes were pleasant and the challenge of climbing up to Ben Nevis was rewarding. Amazing landscapes! Can only recommend this trip to anyone.

Sehr interessante Reise, hervorragend geleitet von unserem kompetenten Reiseleiter Tony, der sich nicht hat aus der Ruhe bringen lassen, auch als etwas ohne seine Schuld nicht geklappt hat zu Beginn der Reise (Zug hatte nur 2 Wagen anstatt 5). Wir haben stressfrei viel über Land, Leute und Geschichte erfahren, und eine andere Art des Reisens erlebt, welche uns sehr gefallen hat (Kleingruppe/Teilnehmer aus 3 Kontinenten/5 Ländern). Viele interessante Gespräche auch unter den Reiseteilnehmern. Wir sind begeistert!

On The Go Tours

• Excellent - 3,019 reviews for Scotland tours

Both our guides were amazing. We would certainly recommend the London to Edinburgh trip.

The hotel in Invernes was unacceptable, especially since I was charged 270 euros per night. It was far from town ( 20 minutes walk), rundown and musty, with a very uncomfortable bed.The breakfast was poor quality, no selection and most unappetizing. After spending too much time in out of the way small towns for lunch we arrived in Inverness when everything was closed. This trip wasted too much time on nondescript places, could be done in one day. Would NOT recommend it!

G Adventures

• Excellent - 22,546 reviews for Scotland tours

Tour guide and bus driver were both excellent. Starting hotel was terrible and no where near the main area of Edinburgh. Breakfast there was a granola bar, croissant in a plastic wrap, a yogurt, and a juice box. Our hotel room in Inverness had a leaky ceiling which we reported to the front desk right away. They said they sent maintenance to fix the issue, but that evening it was leaking again. G Adventures itinerary is not reflective of the actual tour and for many extra activities listed there was no time to do them even if we had wanted to. Isle of Skye was a real highlight along with Inverness. We only received our tour vouchers the night before we left Canada and we had to call to get it. We will not consider G Adventures for any of our future travel needs.

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.

Spirit Journeys Worldwide

• Excellent - 12 reviews for Scotland tours

Our tour guide, Ryan, was outstanding! He immediately put us at ease with his friendly and personable manner. His knowledge of the complicated roads and history of the areas we visited gave us the safety we needed to deeply enjoy the beautiful landscapes and fascinating history Scotland has. Thank you for the perfect vacation!

The Spirit of Outlander tour was great! This tour is geared for Outlander fans but you don't have to be a fan to enjoy all the locations visited. Our tour guide, Paul, was fantastic! His knowledge, enthusiasm, and professionalism was 5-star! It was very exciting to visit the filming sites of Outlander and to be walking in the footsteps of the actors! There were a variety of locations to visit daily from castles to churches and gardens. There were also unscheduled photo stops to capture the scenic beauty on the way to visiting various locations. My husband and I waited over 2 years to take this trip (due to Covid) and it was worth the wait! The hotels were top notch and the meals provided were good! A thoroughly exciting trip!

Timberbush Tours

• Excellent - 263 reviews for Scotland tours

This tour was one of the best times of my life. I cannot say enough about everything that went right. Every place in Scotland is beautiful and the people are wonderful. We also stayed at a perfect venue on Skye and had wonderful weather. I will take tours with this company again.

Nous avons passé un super séjour ! Nous avons pu voir et découvrir tellement d'endroits en seulement 3 jours. Dave était un chauffeur et guide au top ! Bon conducteur et surtout très intéressant et drôle !

Rabbie's Tours

• Excellent - 785 reviews for Scotland tours

This was an excellent tour of the outer Hebrides, along with some stops on the mainland to and from Edinburgh. It was pretty packed with things to see, and we covered a lot of ground. Special thanks to our tour guide Bruce who's very entertaining mix of history, folk tales, and unfailingly amusing commentary on random stuff along the way made the long drives particularly enjoyable. The accommodations arranged by Rabbie's were good, and everywhere had been notified of my dietary issues (coeliac) and provided gf options for breakfasts.

The itinerary was very good. The weather was on again, off again, which of course the tour company can not control. The accommodations overall were very good. I have not taken to many tours, but the experienced tour guide was excellent.

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Scottish Dream Tours

Now in our 25th year of offering our very best in small group tours to Scotland, Ireland, Wales, England, Switzerland, Tuscany, Greece, Southern France, Portugal and the Andalucia Region of Spain, New Zealand and a Germany Christmas Tour.

Scottish Dream Tours is a small group tour operator that creates, arranges, schedules and conducts each of our tours personally in order to bring you the very best that Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England have to offer. The Scottish Dream Tours Team is made up of Shannon McDonald Tate who has been conducting tours for over 20 years and Mario Torres in his 17th year of conducting tours. We generally offer each tour just once a year and we only offer 12 scheduled tours a year which fits perfectly into the touring season in the British Isles and Ireland and more recently Tuscany, Greece, Switzerland, New Zealand and in 2024 Portugal, Andalucia Spain, South France and Germany. We specialize in small local and family owned accommodations, quaint tearooms, amazing castles, glorious gardens, cozy pubs, fascinating history, local folks and flavor, picturesque villages and spectacular scenery. We believe there is no better way to see these lands than on a small group tour that allows for a slower pace and time to enjoy the scenery, lovely villages and the warmhearted people who inhabit them.

All of our tours are designed for small groups of a maximum of 10-12 people(depending on the tour) in order to take advantage of the many different kinds of accommodations, eateries and sights that would not be available to larger groups. You may find yourself staying in a lovely city guest house, a small country house hotel, a centuries old coaching Inn, a Victorian seaside hotel, a secluded farmhouse and even possibly in a wee Scottish Castle all in the same visit! You will find yourself dining in unique tearooms, cozy pubs, old coaching inns, seaside restaurants or out to a Highland Dinner and Show, Irish music night, a castle afternoon tea or to a Irish or Welsh Banquet. We will take the road less traveled and wind our way through the spectacular countryside while taking in castles, cathedral, country houses and stately homes and historic sites. You will not find a more intimate small group experience!

We love taking advantage of the local theatre, Highlands nights and impromptu music sessions which is very easy when we have such small groups. We might take a side road off on a new adventure or help someone find an ancestral home if the opportunity presents itself. We love to have you meet the locals as often as possible, and try to arrange a unique experience on each tour to see how people live and interact within their community. We often come across sheep dog demonstrations or a shepherd moving his flock down the road along with the help of his trusty dogs. We also try to include some kind of wildlife experience into each tour with a puffin cruises or a wildlife safaris. We want you to feel like you are experiencing these lovely countries rather than just visiting them. We truly want you to fall in love with these places as much as we have!

Scottish Dream Tours now in our 23rd year of sharing our love of Scotland, Ireland, Wales and many parts of England that we treasure. Our goal is always to share the very best of the places we visit and to have you leave us at the end, loving them as much as we do! We truly believe that what we have to offer is among the very best available in British Isles and Ireland travel and our testimonials can attest to this as does our high percentage of return guests. Come let us take care of you and enjoy these beautiful lands and people as they are meant to be seen and experienced. Let us share with you the history, culture and amazing scenery that abounds round every turn. Find out today how Scottish Dream Tours can make your dream tour of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, England, Tuscany, Greece, Germany, France, Portugal, Spain or New Zealand a reality. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!

Scottish Dream Tours USA Business Office - PO Box 8330

Yakima, wa  98908.

Yakima, WA 98908

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