Express Scotland

This tour is the fast-paced version of our Classic itinerary around Scotland. It is designed to fit as many of the top sights as possible in six days. As it is a self-drive tour, you'll be able to stop whenever you want.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN EDINBURGH

Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, make your way to your hotel located in the city centre. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

DAY 2: INTO THE HIGHLANDS

Your road trip starts today! Pick up your rental car and head into the Scottish Highlands. On the way you can stop at the charming village of Dunkeld or to visit the 13th-century Blair Castle.

Arriving near Inverness, you could visit the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, to see where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746, marking "the beginning of the end for the Highlands." Nearby you could also roam around Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years.

Spend the night in the Inverness area.

Driving distance: 251 km / 156 miles

DAY 3: LOCH NESS AND THE ISLE OF SKYE

Today, you journey to the Isle of Skye, passing by the mysterious Loch Ness. If there is time, you could go on a boat tour or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins. Later, we recommend stopping for a photo at the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle. Arriving on Skye, take some time to wander around the main town, Portree, with its colourful harbour and delicious seafood restaurants.

Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 182 km / 113 miles  

DAY 4: ISLE OF SKYE

You have the full day to discover Skye and all its natural wonders. You could explore the colourful Portree, the main village of the island, before heading north to the Trotternish Peninsula. This is where some of Skye's most famous sights are located. This includes the "Old Man of Storr," the Quiraing, Kilt Rock waterfall, and the Fairy Glen.

Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 70 km / 45 miles

DAY 5: SLEAT PENINSULA AND GLENFINNAN

This morning, head south to the Sleat Peninsula of Skye. You could enjoy a walk to the Fairy Pools, admire the Black Cuillin Hills, or sample whisky at the Talisker Distillery.

In the afternoon, you'll hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Before you reach Fort William, you'll get to stop at Glenfinnan. Here you'll spot the famous viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films, and the Glenfinnan monument.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Included: Ferry from Armadale to Mallaig, duration 30 minutes

Driving distance: 135 km / 85 miles

DAY 6: TRAVEL ALONG DRAMATIC GLENS

Today’s drive will take you through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park back to Edinburgh. You have the option to end your trip in Glasgow instead if you want to visit Scotland's largest city.

This morning, you'll drive through the scenic Glen Coe. Later on, for a fun photo opportunity, don’t miss Doune Castle, featured in many films and TV series. If time allows, you could also stop by Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s top attractions, or at the Kelpies, two impressive horse-head sculptures.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 261 km / 162 miles

DAY 7: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

Today you say goodbye to Scotland. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may take your last few hours to do some last-minute shopping, visit one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.