8 Top tours operators for your trip to Scotland

Theme: Nature tour

If you’ve ever wanted to visit some of the Scotland’s west coast islands but are not sure where to start, this tour could be for you.

Take in the stunning isles of Mull, Iona and Staffa on this Three Isles Tour from Oban. Your journey starts with a ferry trip from Oban Ferry Terminal to Craignure on Mull where you’ll hop on board your coach to hear many tales, stories and history about the islands. After you’ve explored Mull, you’ll head across, via ferry, to Staffa where you’ll visit the mesmerising Fingal’s Cave, before journeying south to the Isle of Iona to explore Iona Abbey and learn all about the burial place of kings.

Good to know:

• Duration: 1 day (10 hours)
• Based in Oban, specialising in Scottish island tours
• Family-owned business operating since 1972
• Uses modern, comfortable coaches
• Offers wildlife spotting opportunities

Theme: Coastal villages

This award-winning Scottish tour operator offers a range of exciting tours that will take you up and down the country.

Spend the day exploring the famed town of St Andrews and the quaint fishing villages of Fife. This relaxed outing starts in Edinburgh and takes you across the iconic Forth Bridge before heading past Aberdour and into the East Neuk of Fife. There are plenty of charming fishing villages to see here, with a delectable offering of fresh seafood and a chance to delve into local history at the Scottish Fisheries Museum, too. In St Andrews, uncover Scotland’s Home of Golf, its medieval history, streets and attractions, and don’t forget to wander along West Sands Beach in your free time as well.

Good to know:

• Duration: 1 day (9 hours)
• Departs: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday (May to September)
• Focuses on sustainable tourism practices
• Offers small group tours (max 32 people)
• Known for knowledgeable and entertaining driver-guides

Theme: Nature tour

If you’re looking for the chance to get up close to some of Scotland’s native wildlife, plan your trip to Uist in the Outer Hebrides. This wild corner of Scotland is the ideal place to witness untouched landscapes, stunning coasts and beaches, and to spot wildlife in their natural habitats. Choose the tour out to St Kilda for a real trip of a lifetime, with amazing sea cliffs, ruined stone cottages, and an array of seabird colonies to spot. Embark on the wildlife spotting trip that will take you around the blue glistening waters of South Uist, Eriskay and the Sound of Barra where you’ll have the chance to see bottlenose dolphins, grey seals, golden eagles, minke whales and more.

Good to know:

• 12-seater RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) called the "Karleen Belle"
• Trips depart from Eriskay Ferry Terminal or The Acarsaid on Eriskay and typically last 2 hours, costing £50 for adults and £40 for children
• Visitors can see a variety of wildlife
• Also trips to St Kilda and Mingulay, where visitors can see puffins and other seabirds
• All trips are subject to weather and minimum booking numbers

Theme: Scottish islands

Head north off the mainland and explore the magical archipelagos of Orkney and Shetland.

These incredible islands will create a 6-day holiday to remember, with unmatched landscapes, ancient history, fascinating culture and native wildlife to explore. Marvel at the spectacular sea cliffs of Eshaness - from May to July you can see up close the colonies of seabirds that make their home on the islands - explore the Viking history of Jarlshof, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Centre of Neolithic Orkney..

Good to know:

• Includes accommodation and comfortable coach travel throughout
• Flexible departure points
• Specialises in special interest holidays
• Offers expert-led tours with a focus on archaeology and history
• Based in Fife, with over 30 years of experience

Theme: Whisky

Mix a day of whisky tasting at two of Scotland’s finest distilleries with stunning views of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and you've got yourself a day to remember.

Kick start your journey in Edinburgh where you’ll head west to Stirling and onwards to Glengoyne Distillery. Home to an array of fine and rare whiskies, you can begin your world-class tour that takes you on a journey through the detailed processes of whisky making. Afterwards, you’ll make your way to the shores of Loch Lomond for some hearty pub grub, the opportunity to taste some local beer and enjoy the breathtaking views out across the loch. Once you’ve fuelled up, head back on the road to Deanston Distillery – a converted cotton mill situated on the banks of the River Teith, with tours, tastings and a shop filled with goodies you can take home.

Good to know:

• Edinburgh-based, operating since 1993
• Specialises in small group tours (max 16 people)
• Uses Mercedes mini-coaches for comfort
• Emphasises responsible tourism and supports local communities

Theme: Suitable for solo travellers

Enjoy a day-long tour that will allow you to step back in time and learn all about one of the most notorious battles in Scottish history.

Starting in Glasgow and the surrounding area, this tour journeys north to the Highland capital of Inverness and then onward to Culloden Battlefield. Here you can learn about the history, stories and tales of the turbulent Jacobite Risings that led to the bloody battle commencing on 16 April 1746. You can also take the time to marvel at the weaponry and clothing displays and immerse yourself in the cinema experience onsite, too.

Good to know:

• Private tour for 1-6 people with a personal guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Full-day experience (9-10 hours) with luxury transportation
• Three-hour visit to Culloden Battlefield

Theme: Music and culture

Get yourself to Scotland’s largest city that is renowned for its friendly locals, vibrant atmosphere and eclectic things to do.

Immerse yourself in the city’s music and culture scene with a tour of some of the best venues in Scotland. Book the Merchant City Tour for 2 hours of tales and stories of Glasgow’s history with music and the arts. Led by musicians, fans and writers themselves, you’re in the best hands for this guided tour.

Head along on the Music Mile Tour to discover Glasgow’s venues, old and new, that see a range of artists and musicians from local talent to big names. From King Tut’s, the Conservatoire and the Royal Concert Hall, this whistle-stop tour lets you in on all the best music venues in the city.

Good to know:

• Specialises in music-themed walking tours of Glasgow
• Run by experienced music journalists and broadcasters
• Offers insights into Glasgow's rich musical heritage
• Provides both public and private tours

Theme: Islands and whisky

If a one-day tour of whisky distilleries isn’t enough, you’re in luck!

Explore the glorious Isle of Islay whilst whisky-tasting your way around the island on this 4-day tour. Departing from either Edinburgh or Glasgow, you’ll have the chance to visit the distilleries of Lagavulin, Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Kilchoman, Bowmore, Bunnahbhain, and Bruichladdich for a tour and tasting experience to remember. There will also be a visit to the Islay Whisky Vault where you can take a souvenir home with you.

Marvel at the sights of this stunning west coast island as you travel from distillery to distillery at the hands your professional tour guide.

Good to know:

• Enjoy a 4-day tour of Scotland's whisky island
• Visit multiple renowned distilleries
• Enjoy guided tastings, warehouse tours, and scenic drives through Islay
• Experience local culture and attractions beyond the distilleries

Includes 3 nights' accommodation in Bowmore, all transport, and expert guide