Day Trips in the Scottish Highlands: The 6 Worth a Whole Day

1.Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,753 reviews · 11.5 hours · from $91Our pick

Travel from Glasgow into the Highlands with a live English-speaking guide, stopping at Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Shiel, Neptune’s Staircase, and Loch Lomond. You’ll hear Scottish history, see Harry Potter locations, and have time for photos, lunch, and short breaks. Jack, Jerry, Anthony, Michelle, and Wee Davie are among the praised guides.

“Michelle was a wonderful tour guide. Wonderful sights and even better stories along the way. We thouroughpy enjoyed our day in the Scottish highlands.”

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2.1 Day Castles, West Highlands and Loch Lomond Tour from Edinburgh

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 850 reviews · 10 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $88Top rated

Travel from Edinburgh into the West Highlands with an English-speaking guide such as Steve, Cara, Charlie, or Dusty. Visit Doune Castle, Loch Awe, Inveraray, Rest and Be Thankful, and Luss in about 10.5 hours. Expect a small group of up to 16, scenic drives, castle history, photo stops, and a full day on the road.

“Rich did a wonderful job narrating the history of Edinburgh at the same time driving. He was very talented. Since this is a new tour, my suggestion would be to make two less stops. But my favorite stop was visiting the West Highland cows farm it was a suggestion and he made it come true. Enjoyed all the castles that we stopped. I would recommend this tour.”

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3.Day Trip to Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park with Optional Stirling Castle Tour from Edinburgh

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 626 reviews · 9 hours (approx.)

Spend about nine hours with an English-speaking driver-guide such as Sophie, Connor, or Ry, visiting the Kelpies, Loch Lomond, and Stirling. The small-group coach includes live commentary, a woodland walk at Balmaha, and optional Stirling Castle entry for £17.50. Bring lunch, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.

“Great tour to see some beautiful sights around Edinburgh. Our tour guide/bus driver was amazing. Loved her stories and knowledge. Bus was comfortable.”

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4.West Highland Lochs and Castles Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 623 reviews · 10 hours · from $85

Travel from Edinburgh into the West Highlands by air-conditioned coach, with a driver-guide, stops at Doune Castle, Luss, Rest and Be Thankful, Inveraray, Kilchurn Castle, and Stirling. You will hear Scottish history and folklore along the way, with optional entry to Inveraray Castle and free time for lunch in town.

“Sam was a great tour guide, we had an amazing day!”

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5.From Aberdeen: Dunnottar Castle and Cairngorms Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 329 reviews · 9 hours · from $75Best value

Travel from Aberdeen in a 16-seat Mercedes minibus with an English-speaking driver-guide such as Darryl, Jim, Alan, Neil, or Chris. Visit cliff-top Dunnottar Castle, the Falls of Feugh, Braemar, Cairngorms National Park, and Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve. Expect photo stops, woodland walking, lively Scottish stories, and a full day outdoors.

“Chris is a great guide, very professional and funny. Muir of Dinnet was muy favorite spot and the BEST way to end the tour.”

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6.1 Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 306 reviews · 11 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Travel from Inverness to the Moray Coast in a small group, stopping at Findhorn Beach, Bow Fiddle Rock, Cullen, wildlife sites, Strathisla Distillery, and Carrbridge. Guides such as Karen, Sonia, Amber, Willie, and Iain are known for local stories, music, and friendly help. The whisky stop may be informal, and tastings cost extra.

“Amber made it all such a wonderful experience. Her up beat attitude and knowledge really made the trip!”

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