Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities

Trafalgar (AU) · 13 days
Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities
13 Days
From AUD $7335 Was AUD $8150
Trip Type
Group Tour
Activity Level
Easy

Rating


(10 reviews)

Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities

Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities

Trafalgar (AU) · 13 days
Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Deluxe

Physical Rating

Easy

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

This unforgettable trip through the Scottish Highlands travels into the far-reaches of Scotland’s rugged countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie, delve into the history of the kings and warriors, and join the Wood family for a ceilidh and lunch in the ‘presence’ of Rob Roy.

Includes

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Return ferry to the Orkney Isles
  • Ferry from the Isle of Skye to Mallaig
  • Return ferry to the Isle of Mull and Iona
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised

Highlights

Dining Summary

  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 12 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Must-see Highlights (do not use)

  • Explore Edinburgh 
  • Discover Dundee, Orkney Islands, Glasgow and Stirling
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle, Melrose Abbey, Glamis Castle, a whisky distillery in the Highlands, the battlefield and Visitor Centre of Culloden, Dunrobin Castle in Golspie, John O'Groats, The Italian Chapel and Skara Brae on Orkney Islands, Ullapool, Isle of Skye, Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, St. Mungo's Cathedral in Glasgow and Stirling Castle
  • View Jedburgh Abbey, the 18th​ green at St. Andrews, Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe
  • See Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and the Battlefield at Bannockburn
  • Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

Iconic Experience

  • Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • Jedburgh: See the impressive 12th-century Jedburgh Abbey that dominates the centre of town. 
  • Melrose: Visit the historic ruins of Melrose Abbey and appreciate its many carved decorative details.
  • St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
  • Glamis: Visit Glamis Castle, and appreciate the building's illustrious history and picturesque setting.
  • Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
  • Golspie: Explore the grand castle and admire its magnificent gardens during your visit of Dunrobin Castle. 
  • Wick: Warm your heart with a little Scottish whisky at a traditional distillery in the Scottish Highlands.
  • Orkney Islands: Cruise to the windswept Orkney Islands. Come face-to-face with relics spanning human history, from pagan stone circles to reminders of wartime tragedy.
  • Scottish Highlands: Take in the beauty of the Highlands on a scenic drive past glens, lochs and dramatic peaks. Watch the landscape shift as you travel deeper into one of Scotland’s most striking regions.   
  • Eilean Donan: See one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, set where three lochs meet. Framed by rugged mountains and often shrouded in mist, it’s a favourite film location and one of the country’s most photographed landmarks. 
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct: See the Glenfinnan Viaduct, along which the Hogwart's Express once crossed in the Harry Potter series. 
  • Isle of Mull: Explore the Scottish Highlands in depth as you travel to the Isles of Mull and Iona. Visit the Reilig Odhrain, sacred burial ground of 48 Scottish Kings. 
  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings of Glasgow, including George Square. 
  • Glencoe: Drive through Glencoe, a Highland valley known for steep mountains, open moorland and clan history. Your Travel Director shares context on the area’s past as you follow the road through one of Scotland’s best-known landscapes, with views that show the scale and character of the Highlands.
  • Stirling: Visit Stirling and see its castle, once the seat of Scottish royalty.

Be My Guest

  • Kinlochard: Join your hosts, the Wood family at their 15th-century farm on the shores of Loch Ard for a home-cooked Scottish lunch, amidst tales of Rob Roy and a few foot-tapping ceilidh tunes.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • Glasgow: Explore Glasgow’s character through its striking street art on a walking tour with a Local Specialist. Start your walk at The Clutha, a much-loved pub supporting young people through the Clutha Trust. Discover stories of shipbuilding, comedy, creativity and community as you pass powerful murals across the city.  Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 and 11: Reduced Inequalities & Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Private

Guide Language

English

Starts

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Finishes

Glasgow, United Kingdom

Accommodations

Deluxe

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Easy

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh
Embrace the allure of Auld Reekie and explore its labyrinthine lanes, before joining your fellow travellers and Travel Director for dinner to kick-start your tour through an unimaginably beautiful part of the world.

Accommodation: Voco Haymarket, Delta by Marriott
Meals: Dinner
2
Day 2: Discover Enchanting Edinburgh
Let your Local Specialist take you on an informative sightseeing tour of Edinburgh. See the regal Palace of Holyroodhouse, the new Scottish Parliament Building and the Royal Mile, delving into the heart of the city, before visiting Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Stroll through the grand New Town with its Gothic façades enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.

Accommodation: Voco Haymarket, Delta by Marriott
Meals: Breakfast
3
Day 3: A Day of Abbeys, Landscapes and History
A scenic day's excursion brings you to the ruins of the 12th-century Augustinian Jedburgh Abbey, which you will have an opportunity to view. Continue to nearby Melrose Abbey, said to be the final resting place of the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce. Take the scenic route back to Edinburgh this afternoon, following the lush green landscapes along the Tweed River.

Accommodation: Voco Haymarket, Delta by Marriott
Meals: Breakfast
4
Day 4: Explore Glamis Castle and on to Creative Dundee
This morning, cross the Firth of Forth to the celebrated home of golf - St. Andrews, to view its ancient university and famous golf course. Shakespeare's Macbeth takes centre stage as you visit Glamis Castle, once the home of the beloved Queen Mother and birthplace of Princess Margaret. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle and explore its beautiful gardens, before travelling to the waterfront city of Dundee, distinguished for its status as the first UNESCO City of Design, and the legendary birthplace of marmalade.

Accommodation: Apex City Quay
Meals: Breakfast
5
Day 5: Venture to Culloden and Inverness
Today, wind your way to the tragic battlefield and Visitor Centre at Culloden, past rugged landscapes and the imposing Cairngorms Mountains. Visit the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was defeated. Your final stop for the night is Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands.

Accommodation: Columba
Meals: Breakfast
6
Day 6: Journey to Loch Ness and Thurso
The mystical haunt of Nessie is your first stop today en route to Dunrobin Castle. This stately home and its magnificent gardens, inspired by the Palace of Versailles, comes straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Spend your afternoon exploring its château-like structure and surrounds, once home to the Clan Sutherland. Dive Into Culture and learn about the local whisky industry at a distillery, including a tasting of Scotland's much-loved golden nectar. Arriving in Thurso, your home for the next two nights, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Accommodation: Pentland
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
7
Day 7: A Day on the Orkney Islands
After stopping at John o' Groats, board a ferry to South Ronaldsay in the Orkney Islands. Visit the ornate Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war. See the prehistoric free-standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar before visiting Skara Brae and delving into the stories of the Neolithic village. Stop at beautiful Kirkwall Cathedral for a photo opportunity before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Accommodation: Pentland
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
8
Day 8: Over the Sea to Skye
Dramatic landscapes accompany your scenic drive along the rugged north-west coastline of the Scottish Highlands to remote Ullapool on the shores of Loch Broom. Journey to Eilean Donan Castle, built in the 13th century, perched on a tiny island, where three sea lochs meet, then continue to the Isle of Skye where you'll stay overnight and enjoy a delicious dinner in your hotel.

Accommodation: Kings Arms
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
9
Day 9: Onwards to Oban
Upon return to the mainland, follow a beautiful route that takes you past the Glenfinnan Viaduct which Harry Potter's Hogwarts Express once crossed to his beloved school of magic. Pass Fort William on the shores of Loch Linnhe, renowned as the gateway to Ben Nevis, before continuing to Oban, your Highland home for the next two nights.

Accommodation: Royal
Meals: Breakfast
10
Day 10: Sail to the Isles of Mull and Iona
Set sail from Oban to the Isle of Mull, disembarking at Craignure. Cross the pretty island countryside to catch a ferry from Fionnphort to the island of Iona, which was once the home of a Gaelic monastic community in Iona Abbey. Before your journey back to Oban, you'll have the chance to view Rèilig Odhrain, the final resting place of many Scottish kings. Please note that ferry services are subject to operational conditions. In the event of disruption, the Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona visits may be substituted with an alternative experience.

Accommodation: Royal
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
11
Day 11: Off to Glasgow
The beauty of Glencoe, scarred by the story of the MacDonald clan massacre, sets a dramatic scene en route from Oban to Glasgow. Visit St Mungo's Cathedral, a holy sacred place with deep historical significance the city of Glasgow is built upon. After an orientation of the city with your Travel Director, find a bite to eat for lunch with some free time. You may wish to take part in an Optional Experience to visit the towering Kelpies and the remarkable Falkirk Wheel. Later, enjoy a specially selected Optional Experience with your Travel Director—whether it’s an evening of Highland flair with dinner, bagpipes and a Highland dancer at The Corinthian.

Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Glasgow, Hilton Garden Inn City Centre
Meals: Breakfast
12
Day 12: Uncover Stirling Castle’s Secrets
Venture to Bannockburn, where King Robert Bruce of Scotland defeated Edward II of England during the First War of Scottish Independence. Mary, Queen of Scots and several Scottish kings and queens have made Stirling Castle their home over the centuries. Enjoy a visit to its grounds and delve into the history of this royal residence and fortress, besieged by Bonnie Prince Charlie in the 18th century. Visit the Royal Palace of King James V and view the renowned Stirling Heads. Later, we Connect With Locals, joining the Wood family this afternoon for a memorable Be My Guest experience at their 15th-century farm, on the shores of Loch Ard, amidst tales of Rob Roy. In the afternoon, return to Glasgow. Join an expert guide to unlock Glasgow’s stories through its vibrant murals on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience before the rest of the evening is yours to explore or relax in this vibrant city.

Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Glasgow, Hilton Garden Inn City Centre
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
13
Day 13: Farewell Glasgow
Our epic journey across Scotland’s highlands, islands and cities has come to an end. It’s time to say a fond farewell to our travel companions and Travel Director as our memorable holiday comes to an end.

Meals: Breakfast
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $8150

AUD $7,335
(Tour only)
Offer ends 30 Sep, 2026 Per Person Twin, Share
10% Off

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Easy

This unforgettable trip through the Scottish Highlands travels into the far-reaches of Scotland’s rugged countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie, delve into the history of the kings and warriors, and join the Wood family for a ceilidh and lunch in the ‘presence’ of Rob Roy.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 02 Oct 2027

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
Trusted Customer
Traveled, May 2024

06/23/2024

Historical, Beautiful Scotland! Our tour driver was *Personal information removed by Feefo* and provided us excellent service, courtesy and knowledge. Our tour director, *Personal information removed by Feefo*, gave us directions for each day's itinerary and was very knowledgeable of the history for each area. Our hotel accommodations were satisfactory, and the breakfasts/meals were adequate. Some of the additional cost excursions should have been a part of the regular itinerary, especially the Isle of Skye scenic trip. The itinerary covered all the sights that we were interested in seeing

5.0
Trusted Customer
Traveled, August 2024

08/28/2024

Trafalgar Scotland Cities and Islands August 2024! *Personal information removed by Feefo* was brilliant. She was completely calm and unflappable. Nothing was too much trouble for her to do. She made herself available 24/7 and was informed and interesting in her commentary and in her responses to questions striking the perfect balance of history and general interest. Her knowledge of the places we saw and of Scotland and its relationship with England, Ireland and the rest of the world was exceptional. Our driver *Personal information removed by Feefo* was amazing. So competent and capable and also, like *Personal information removed by Feefo* he did the extras with a smile which made the trip so great. Excellent coverage of cities and islands. We saw almost all we wanted to see.

Tour Operator

Family owned and run since 1920, The Travel Corporation (TTC) is the world leader in immersive travel experiences across an extensive range of travel categories. Each year TTC's 40 award winning hospitality and travel brands connect over 1 million happy travellers to the world. We give you access to the 12 DMC’s behind these brands, so you can build your business by capitalizing on the extensive experience, local expertise, and financial assurance of TTC. LOCAL EXPERTISE The world leaders in travel for over 100 years, we offer unparalleled local expertise with a global footprint. Our 12 DMCs, led by experienced in-destination teams, deliver experience rich travel solutions in more than 80 countries. Additionally, our market based teams are on hand to support across our 40 offices worldwide

In Business Since 1931