Classic Tour Of Scotland

A classic Scotland sightseeing tour encompassing a mix of historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, charming cities, and cultural experiences.

Your 10 day Itinerary will cover some of Scotland’s iconic destinations starting in the Capital City of Edinburgh where you will spend your first two days.

After collecting your vehicle Rental you will then head for Stirling, Loch Lomond, and The Trossachs. You will then travel north to Glencoe and Fort William area.

A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to The Isle of Skye. On leaving Skye, visit both Eilean Donan Castle and Urquhart Castle en route to Inverness which will be home for the next two nights. From Inverness to Aberdeen, take in both the Culloden Battlefield and either the coastal villages of Speyside or some Whisky Distilleries.

Overnight in Aberdeen and then a visit to Balmoral Castle in Braemar and Dunnottar Castle. Then to Edinburgh via St Andrews and the picturesque coastal fishing villages in Fife.

• Day 1-2 Edinburgh - Old Town / Edinburgh Castle / Royal Mile / Holyrood Palace / Arthur's Seat
• Day 3 - Stirling and The Trossachs - Stirling Castle / Loch Lomond / Trossachs National Park
• Day 4 - Glencoe and Fort William / Ben Nevis / Isle of Skye
• Day 5 - Isle of Skye / Old Man of Storr / The Quiraing / Dunvegan Castle
• Day 6 - Eilean Donan Castle / Loch Ness / Drumnadrochit / Urquhart Castle / Inverness
• Day 7 - Inverness / Loch Ness Cruise
• Day 8 - Culloden Battlefield / Speyside
• Day 9 - Aberdeen / Balmoral Castle, the Queen's Scottish Residence / Dunnottar Castle
• Day 10 - Travel from Aberdeen to Edinburgh via St Andrews / Fife Coastal Fishing Villages

Day 1

Edinburgh

On arrival, travel into Edinburgh to your City Centre Hotel.

You can take the Tram or Bus from the Airport, a taxi or we can arrange Private Transfers for you.

Be sure to make a visit to Edinburgh Castle.

The duration of a visit to Edinburgh Castle can vary based on your level of interest in history, architecture, and the number of exhibits you want to explore. On average, most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the castle grounds, including the various buildings, exhibits, and enjoying the panoramic views of Edinburgh.

There’s no better way to orient yourself in Edinburgh than on a historical walking tour—especially one that includes skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle. Get acquainted with the city’s fascinating history on a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, whose cobbled streets and narrow alleys lend themselves well to wandering. Then, save hours of waiting with a skip-the-line ticket to Edinburgh Castle Worth considering is a small group Royal Mile Walking Tour with Optional Entry to Edinburgh Castle.

Discover the history of the Old Town and its connection with the finest “water of life” and explore the lives of whisky blenders, smugglers and others involved in the industry on this Whisky Tasting Tour

Experience an Edinburgh ghost tour in the safety of the daylight hours and early evening

Overnight in Edinburgh.

3 Star Hotel Elder York Guest House or similar

4 Star Hotel Apex Waterloo Hotel or similar

5 Star Hotel The Balmoral or similar

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 2 :

Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat

Begin your day with a walk around Holyrood Park followed by a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano offering stunning views of Edinburgh and beyond. It’s a great way to start the morning.

National Museum of Scotland

Spend some time exploring this comprehensive museum with exhibits covering everything from natural history to Scottish culture and history.

Princes Street Gardens and Scott Monument

Take a stroll through these picturesque gardens, followed by a visit to the impressive Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.

Overnight in Edinburgh.

3 Star Hotel Elder York Guest House or similar

4 Star Hotel Apex Waterloo Hotel or similar

5 Star Hotel The Balmoral or similar

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 3

Stirling & Loch Lomond

Travel to Stirling – 50 Minute drive along the M9 (38 Miles)

Stirling Castle

Begin your visit to Stirling with a trip to the grand Stirling Castle. Explore the castle’s rich history, including the Royal Palace, Great Hall, and the beautiful gardens. The panoramic views from the castle are remarkable.

Wallace Monument

An outstanding landmark and one of Stirling’s most striking visits – commemorating the life of Sir William Wallace, the patriot and martyr who came to be saluted as Scotland’s National Hero. Inside the Monument, you will find yourself transported back to the 13th Century as you discover the story of the warrior who led the Scottish army to victory at The Battle of Stirling Bridge.

Travel from Stirling to Blamaha, Loch Lomond – 50 Minute drive along the A811 (30 Miles)

Scenic Drive: Head towards Loch Lomond, and on your way, consider stopping at the picturesque village of Balmaha. From there, you can take in the beauty of Loch Lomond from the shores or take a short hike up Conic Hill for panoramic views.

Cruise or Boat Tour

Consider taking a boat tour on Loch Lomond to experience its beauty up close. There are various boat trips available, allowing you to explore the loch and its islands.

Luss

If time allows, travel to Luss which is a 30-minute drive around the bottom of Loch Lomond.

The charming village of Luss on the western shores of Loch Lomond is known for its scenic setting and historic cottages.

Overnight in the Loch Lomond Area.

Woodvale Guest House

Loch Lomond Lodges

Cameron House

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 4

Glencoe and Fort William

Visiting Glencoe and Fort William offers a breathtaking journey through stunning landscapes and historic sites.

Scenic Drive

Start early for the drive to Glencoe, enjoying the picturesque route through the Scottish Highlands. The journey itself is part of the experience, with dramatic vistas unfolding along the way.

Glencoe Visitor Centre

Arrive at Glencoe and visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre. Learn about the area’s history, geology, and the tragic Glencoe Massacre of 1692.

Hiking or Scenic Views

Depending on your preference, consider taking a hike through some of Glencoe’s trails to experience the stunning beauty up close. If you prefer a less active approach, take in the breathtaking views from designated viewpoints.

Drive to Fort William

After exploring Glencoe, continue your journey towards Fort William, enjoying the Highland scenery along the way.

Fort William

Once in Fort William, there are various activities to consider:

Ben Nevis

If you’re up for a challenge and have the time, consider hiking or at least visiting the base of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

Neptune’s Staircase

Visit Neptune’s Staircase, a series of locks on the Caledonian Canal, offering an interesting glimpse into Scotland’s canal heritage.

Jacobite Steam Train

If it fits your schedule, the Jacobite Steam Train offers a scenic journey from Fort William to Mallaig, passing through beautiful landscapes. It’s a popular choice, but booking in advance is recommended. West Coast Railways, operators of ‘The Jacobite’, provided the steam engine and carriages for the ‘Hogwarts Express’ as seen in the ‘Harry Potter’ films

Overnight in Fort William.

3 Star Accommodation – Rosebank Guest House

4 Star Accommodation – Premier Inn

5 Star Accommodation – Glencoe House

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 5

Isle Of Skye

Morning

Head off early for the 90-minute journey from Fort Wiliam to Eilean Donan Castle.

Continue your journey over The Sky Bridge and head for The Old Man of Storr.

If you decide to hike here, it offers stunning views over the landscape. Depending on your pace, the hike can take a few hours, so plan accordingly.

Afternoon:

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock is a favorite for tourists because of the Kilt-like shape of the basalt column and its waterfall dropping into the sea, the Mealt Falls.

The Quiraing

Next, head to The Quiraing, another spectacular geological feature on Skye. A walk or hike here provides breathtaking vistas and unique landscapes shaped by ancient landslides.

Overnight on the Isle of Skye.

3 Star Accommodation – Edinbane Lodge

4 Star Accommodation – Monkstadt 1745

5 Star Accommodation – Kinloch Lodge Hotel

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 6

Dunvegan Castle, Fairy Pools and Inverness

Dunvegan Castle

Make your way to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Explore its gardens and the castle’s rich history.

Fairy Pools

If you have additional time and energy, consider a visit to the Fairy Pools. This series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls amidst the Cuillin Mountains is an enchanting sight.

Talisker Distiller

If time permits, make a stop at the famous Talisker Distillery

Drive to Inverness

Leaving the Isle Of Skye, make your way to Inverness. The drive takes a couple of hours, but the scenic route through the Highlands offers beautiful vistas, so take your time to enjoy the journey. Stop at Drumadrochit and take in Urquhart Castle, before continuing to Inverness.

Once in Inverness, start by visiting Inverness Castle or taking a stroll along the River Ness.

Explore the city center, where you can visit historic sites like St. Andrew’s Cathedral or the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

Overnight in Inverness.

4 Star Accommodation – Kingsmills

4 Star Accommodation – River Ness

5 Star Accommodation – Rocpool Reserve

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 7

Inverness

Start the day by visiting Inverness Castle or taking a stroll along the River Ness.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries in Inverness, sampling traditional Scottish cuisine or exploring local cafes.

Late Afternoon/Evening

Caledonian Canal or Loch Ness

Depending on your interests and available time, consider taking a leisurely walk along the Caledonian Canal or embark on a Cruise on Loch Ness to explore the legendary waters and maybe catch a glimpse of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

Overnight in Inverness.

4 Star Accommodation – Kingsmills

4 Star Accommodation – River Ness

5 Star Accommodation – Rocpool Reserve

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 8

Aberdeen

Start off the day with a visit to Culloden Battlefield.

Head for Aberdeen and consider a visit to Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s Scottish residence (check for opening times).

If time permits visit Duntoachar Castle. If not, consider visiting it on the way south tomorrow.

Overnight in Aberdeen.

3 Star Accommodation – Sandman Signature

4 Star Accommodation – Residence Inn by Marriott

5 Star Accommodation – The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 9

Return to Edinburgh

Return to Edinburgh, perhaps making stops at picturesque towns or historic sites along the way.

We suggest a visit to St Andrews, then head along the Coast taking in all of the picturesque East Neuk Coastal Villages such as Cellardyke, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie, before returning to Edinburgh for your last evening.

Overnight in Edinburgh.

3 Star Hotel Elder York Guest House or similar

4 Star Hotel Apex Waterloo Hotel or similar

5 Star Hotel The Balmoral or similar

Full Scottish Breakfast

Day 10

Depart

Enjoy a Full Scottish Breakfast before departing for the Airport.