8 Top Tours Operators for Your Trip to Scotland

Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in the world and with Halloween just around the corner, there is nothing better to get you in the spooky spirit than a haunted ghost tour. Put on a brave face and discover Edinburgh’s dark side with Mercat Tours. Join your Mercat storyteller as they take you on a bone-chilling journey through the past on one of their ghost tours. With tales of murderous spirits, criminals, deadly punishments and much more, prepare for a history lesson like no other!

We know that ghost tours aren’t for everyone but that shouldn’t stop you from uncovering Edinburgh’s rich, historical past. Swap ghostly tales for a historic walk along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, enjoy a candle-lit whisky tasting session or if you’re a fan of Outlander, watch the drama unfold as you follow in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire’s experiences in the historic capital.

Embark on the ultimate Scottish adventure with The Hairy Coo. Choose a selection of tours on offer, ranging from 1-5 days as you explore the length and breadth of the country from visiting classic destinations like Skye or Loch Lomond, to exploring new places like St Andrews and Oban. Whatever you decide to choose, you will no doubt be able to impress all your family and friends with what you have learned during your discoveries.

Of course, no trip would be complete without seeing a Highland coo on your travels, with many opportunities for you to grab a quick selfie with these fluffy and adorable creatures.

Tours include:

• 1-Day Loch Ness, Glencoe, Highlands & Ben Nevis
• 1-Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky
• 2-Day Loch Ness, Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct & St Andrews
• 3-Day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Highlands
• 5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews & North West Highlands
• Private Tours of Scotland
• 1-Day Free Scottish Highlands Tour

Prepare to laugh your socks off as you learn about the incredible history of Edinburgh. Guided by a local stand-up comedian, The Mountebank Comedy Walk pokes a bit of fun on all things Scottish, from our dreich weather to our most famous historical figures. Get set for two hours of non-stop laughter.

Please note that due to the nature of this tour, the Mountebank Comedy Walk is strictly for ages 16+.

If you’re on the hunt for delicious food and drink, make sure to book a tour with Eat Walk Glasgow. Work up an appetite as you take to the streets of Glasgow with a tour guide around some of the city’s foodie hotspots. Alston and Mharsanta are just some of the top venues making a special appearance. Of course, no foodie experience would be complete without filling your camera roll with mouth-watering dishes. With great food, company and a bit of history added to the mix, what’s not to love?

Travel in style with Edinburgh Cab Tours as you take a whistle-stop tour around some of the capital’s most historic sites. The Classic Edinburgh Full Day Tour is a great way to get your bearings around the city. Stop at various sites including the Grassmarket, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur’s Seat and much more. Fancy squeezing in an attraction not listed on the tour? No problem! Your friendly and knowledgeable cab driver will be able to tailor your tour itinerary, giving you the scoop on interesting facts and stories.

Fancy exploring more of what Scotland has to offer? Edinburgh Cab Tours have a wide range of tours from short half-day tours to full-day tours including visiting the ‘Home of Golf’ on the Edinburgh & St Andrews Tour.

The name says it all. Swap a quiet weekend indoors for a fast-paced outdoor adventure with the whole family by booking with In Your Element. With outdoor activity bases in Inverness and Loch Ness, Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and Loch Tay, enjoy the magic of Scotland’s outdoors right at your fingertips. From abseiling to dipping your toe in the water with its range of watersport activities on offer such as canoeing and gorge walking, adventure waits around every corner.

Looking for things to do this weekend? Discover Glasgow’s vibrant music scene with Glasgow Music City Tours and learn about how its musical landscape was revolutionised through legendary performances, iconic venues and most importantly, the people.

Your guide will bring the tour to life with tales of artists old and new, including our very own Paolo Nutini.

Find out more about the tours:

• Music Mile Tour
• Merchant City Tour

Enjoy a spot of afternoon tea on wheels with Red Bus Bistro. Hit the road as you pass through Edinburgh’s most iconic sights and attractions while tucking into some scrumptious goodies. Highlights along the way include the Scott Monument, Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament.

Red Bus Bistro also operate the following tours in Glasgow:

• Afternoon Tea Bus in Glasgow
• Dining Experience in Glasgow

The waters around Scotland are among some of the finest with an abundance of marine life to be seen all year-round. Running tours from April – October, Dolphin Spirit offer two wildlife watching boat tours to see the world’s most northerly population of bottlenose dolphins along the Moray Firth. Choose between the Wildlife Cruise or the Dolphin Mischief RIB Experience if you’re looking for more of a thrill.

It’s not just dolphins that you will be on the lookout for. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife creatures during your journey with seals, otters and other sea creatures bound to make an appearance.

Can’t get enough of Scotland’s rich, historic past? Running bespoke historic and ancestral tours since 2015, Solway Tours allows you to immerse yourself in Scotland’s history, landscape and culture by visiting a range of stunning locations and attractions. If you’re looking to plan a short staycation, choose from its two multi-day tours or follow in the footsteps of your ancestors with the ancestral tour, specifically tailored to your family name or any Scottish Clan connections that you may have.

Strapped for time? There are many one-day tours available to book including the Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders Tour or get to know our National Bard better with the Robert Burns Tour.

Fancy getting behind the wheel for your next tour? Located on the shores of Butterstone Loch near Dunkeld in Perthshire, push yourself to the limit with Land Rover Experience while navigating your way through white-knuckling obstacles and terrains. Don’t worry if it’s your first-time driving a Land Rover, a qualified instructor will make you feel at ease while allowing you to develop your off-road skills.

For all you gin enthusiasts out there, this one is for you! Home to Kirkjuvagr Gin, take the Orkney Distillery Tour where you will learn about the distilling process and history behind its gin and beautiful islands. Want to upgrade your experience a notch? Get busy experimenting by making your very own gin.

If you’ve been picked to be the designated driver for your trip to the distillery, make sure to stock up on a few bottles to take home with you. With a range of different flavours to choose from, your G&T nights are about to get a whole lot better!

With summer drawing to a close, make the most of the outdoors by going on a walking holiday. Perthshire Treks offer a range of guided walking adventures to help you soak up the fresh air and admire Scotland’s natural beauty. Whether you are looking to explore the outdoor region of Perthshire or take a staycation elsewhere, there are many walks and mountain trails to be found across the country. Stretch your legs by taking a hike up the Cairngorms, walk up ancient hill forts or take a leisurely stroll along old drove roads.

Start your walking adventure around Scotland with these tours:

• Walks in Highland Perthshire
• Half-Day Guided Walks in The Pitlochry Area

Our towns and cities may be a hub of activity for things to see and do but our islands have just as much to offer. Turn your dreams of travelling to our beautiful islands into reality with West Coast Tours. Enjoy a whistle-stop tour around the Inner Hebrides on the Three Isles Tour where you will discover the gems of Mull and Iona as well as taking a boat trip to Staffa to see the magnificent Fingal’s Cave.

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

Theme: Great for families (aged 4+)

It wouldn’t be a true trip to Scotland without encountering the world of Harry Potter.

Head from Glasgow to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond before stopping by at Glencoe and the landscapes of Glenfinnan – a place that needs little introduction. Everyone remembers that one scene in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets where Harry and Ron are racing to get back to Hogwarts and end up driving along the tracks of the Hogwarts Express. That was Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you can see on this adventurous day trip among the Highlands. Learn more about Jacobite history, admire the Highland town of Fort William, and explore more movie locations along the way.

Good to know:

• Local business operating in the Scottish Highlands
• Specialises in themed tours, including literary connections
• Offers small group sizes for a more intimate experience
• Provides expert local knowledge of filming locations

Theme: Suitable for solo travellers

If a one-day tour isn’t enough for you to explore all that you want to see, venture on this 5-day excursion around Loch Ness, Glencoe, Oban and the Isle of Skye to experience the true atmosphere of Scotland.

Starting in Edinburgh, you’ll head across the Forth Bridges before stopping off in Dunkeld to stretch your legs on a woodland walk, then continue north towards Loch Ness to begin the hunt for the mystical Loch Ness Monster. Throughout the five days you’ll get the chance to visit the popular Eilean Donan Castle, admire geologic formations such as The Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, enjoy the Sands of Morar and the iconic sights of Glencoe and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, amongst many more! It’s a jam-packed itinerary of some of the best spots in Scotland.

Good to know:

• Edinburgh-based company
• Specialises in budget tours for 18–39-year-olds
• Known for fun, adventurous itineraries
• Offers both guided and self-guided tours