Highlights of Scotland by Rail Upgrade
Explore the mysteries of Loch Ness
Adventure through Scotland's most popular cities while traveling via scenic Scottish Rail, enjoying unique tours at each destination. Visit the impressive Edinburgh Castle, explore the extravagant Palace of Holyroodhouse, discover the secrets of Loch Ness, and more.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Edinburgh (EDI), out of Glasgow (GLA)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Market Street Hotel, or similar
- Royal Edinburgh Ticket, including 3 city tours and admission to
- Edinburgh Castle
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre, or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (24 hrs)
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
Enjoy scenic views of the city from Edinburgh Castle.
- Pay a visit to Scotland's oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside via train.
-
Embark on a quest for Nessie during your special Loch Ness river tour.
Treat yourself to a sampling of Scotland's famous spirit: Scotch.
Enjoy views of the picturesque Scottish countryside as you ride the Scottish rail from destination to destination! You'll stay in three of Scotland's most famous and vibrant cities, and have access to unique tours in each.
You'll start in the hilly capital Edinburgh, where medieval alleyways and ancient volcanoes await! Included in your vacation is the 48-hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket, which gives you access to four different tourist bus routes as well as fast-track access to three of Edinburgh's most popular attractions - Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
After a scenic rail ride, you'll arrive in Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. Here you'll find breathtaking churches and cathedrals, lush forests with magnificent views, and even a Victorian market! You'll also be treated to a unique tour of the mysterious Loch Ness and surrounding areas.
One more train ride and you'll arrive at your final destination: the vibrant city of Glasgow! Here you'll find an overabundance of cultural highlights from museums to national theaters.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Edinburgh (EDI), out of Glasgow (GLA)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Market Street Hotel, or similar
- Royal Edinburgh Ticket, including 3 city tours and admission to
- Edinburgh Castle
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre, or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (24 hrs)
- Breakfast Daily
Enjoy scenic views of the city from Edinburgh Castle.
- Pay a visit to Scotland's oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside via train.
-
Embark on a quest for Nessie during your special Loch Ness river tour.
Treat yourself to a sampling of Scotland's famous spirit: Scotch.
Enjoy views of the picturesque Scottish countryside as you ride the Scottish rail from destination to destination! You'll stay in three of Scotland's most famous and vibrant cities, and have access to unique tours in each.
You'll start in the hilly capital Edinburgh, where medieval alleyways and ancient volcanoes await! Included in your vacation is the 48-hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket, which gives you access to four different tourist bus routes as well as fast-track access to three of Edinburgh's most popular attractions - Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
After a scenic rail ride, you'll arrive in Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. Here you'll find breathtaking churches and cathedrals, lush forests with magnificent views, and even a Victorian market! You'll also be treated to a unique tour of the mysterious Loch Ness and surrounding areas.
One more train ride and you'll arrive at your final destination: the vibrant city of Glasgow! Here you'll find an overabundance of cultural highlights from museums to national theaters.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Edinburgh!
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and enjoy a private airport transfer to your Edinburgh accommodation. The rest of your day can be spent at leisure.
Transfer from EDI Airport to Edinburgh hotel
Perfectly located in the center of Edinburgh with plenty of access to nearby attractions, Market Street is the perfect hotel if you're looking for a clean, friendly, and accessible accommodation while in Scotland. Highly stylized with an archaic exterior and modern interior, guests are sure to feel welcome while enjoying incredible access to outside locations as well as an on-site lounge, restaurant, terrace, and coffee house. Views of the city are incredible from the hotel's many gigantic windows.
Air conditioning runs throughout the hotel, and high speed Wi-Fi is available in every room. Guest rooms are comfortable and decorated in neutral tones with hints of yellow and orange. Each room comes equipped with a private bathroom, television (featuring Chromecast and Apple TV), locally-designed fabrics and furniture, small-business owned coffee grounds, and optional choices for hypoallergenic bedding.
Just a few minutes away from the hotel are some of Edinburgh's most popular attractions. These include the City Art Centre, National Museum of Scotland, the Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and many more.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Voco Edinburgh is a 4-star hotel that provides guests with free Wi-Fi and around-the-clock guest service. For guests looking to stay active during their stay, the hotel features a fitness center equipped with cardio machines including treadmills and bicycles. The on-site restaurant and bar offers dishes inspired by international food cultures and locally-sourced seasonal produce.
Guest rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, safe, and a television. Wake-up service and room service are both available, and other amenities include extra towels, air conditioning, and a hairdryer.
The hotel is close to many wonderful attractions in Edinburgh. The Chocolatarium, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and Edinburgh Castle are all within a 25 minute walk from the hotel. Additionally, Arthur's Seat is a 27-minute drive away.
Relax and unwind at The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel, nestled
right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. After a busy day of sightseeing in
the bustling city, you will find yourself only steps away from the comfort and
elegance that this hotel provides. Kick off your shoes and climb into your large,
comfortable bed, or stay up planning your next day, sitting in cozy armchairs
and using the hotel’s complimentary Wi-Fi. All 156 guestrooms are furnished to
the highest standard, featuring triple-glazed windows and boasting marble
bathrooms, creating a quiet, peaceful sanctuary in the middle of center city.
When it’s time to eat, indulge in a delicious, classically
Scottish meal at Acanthus, The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel’s award-winning
restaurant that creates a perfect environment, as it sits just across from
Scottish Parliament and overlooks Arthur’s Seat. By selecting only the finest,
freshest ingredients that are locally sourced where possible, Acanthus is one
of the most exciting new restaurants in Edinburgh. There, you will be treated
to a sensational experience of specialty cocktails, delicious teas, and a
scrumptious breakfast, lunch, or dinner that captures the taste of Scotland.
Pamper yourself at the hotel’s Leisure Club and Spa, which offers
a perfect retreat from the liveliness of Scotland’s capital city. Find serenity in a variety of luxurious spa
treatments, take a swim in the 45-foot headed swimming pool, or work out all of
your stresses in the state of the art Technogym.
Stay close to all of Edinburgh's top attractions with a stay at ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile. Only about half a mile from Edinburgh Castle and even closer to the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral, and the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, the hotel keeps you in the heart of the action. Enjoy comfortably furnished guestrooms and hotel amenities such as a 24-hour bar stocked with a selection of Scottish beers and spirits, speedy Wi-Fi, and an outdoor courtyard to take in a warm afternoon. Fuel up with a good breakfast before you set out to discover the hidden treasures of Edinburgh.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.
Day 2. Edinburgh
Start taking advantage of your included Royal Edinburgh Ticket! Choose from one of three available sightseeing buses and explore the city on your terms. Hop off at Edinburgh Castle and explore the opulence inside and out. This stunning structure sits atop an ancient volcano and offers idyllic views of the city. You'll also want to pay a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Scotland.
This unique value-added tour ticket is all you need to explore and experience the royal splendors of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city! You’ll receive 48-hour unlimited access to three city tours, as well as fast-track access to Edinburgh Castle (the city’s most famous attraction), The Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Queen’s official residence in Scotland) and The Royal Yacht Brittania (The Queen’s floating Royal residence). Simply bring your tour voucher or e-ticket for exchange to the Edinburgh Bus Tours starting point at Waterloo Place. Tours start at 9:00am daily, and operate every 10-20 minutes (please note: tour departure times and attraction opening times are subject to change. It is advised that you check locally upon arrival).
The 3 city tours included in your ticket are as follows:
*THE EDINBURGH TOUR – with a live English-speaking guide, and stops including Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland and Scottish Parliament (approx. 1 hour with no stops).
*CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR – entertaining and informative commentary, along with a “Horrible Histories” commentary for kids. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland, Our Dynamic Earth and Calton Hill (approx. 1 hour with no stops).
*MAJESTIC TOUR – Enjoy an entertaining and informative commentary as you are guided through the history of Edinburgh’s people, places and sights along the route. Highlights include the Royal Yacht Britannia, Royal Botanic Garden, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town and Scottish Parliament. (approx. 1 hour with no stops).
Day 3. Edinburgh
Choose another included sightseeing bus tour or two today! Be sure to leave time for exploring the Royal Yacht Brittania, the Queen's former floating residence.
You may also want to spend some time exploring the city's Georgian-era New Town today. Admire the well-preserved 18th and 19th-century neoclassical and Georgian-style architecture as you walk along the broad streets. You'll also want to walk along the famous Princes Street, where you can do a bit of shopping or admire the famous Gothic monument to Sir Walter Scott.
Scotts Monument • Edinburgh
Day 4. Edinburgh - Inverness
After a ride on the Scottish rail, arrive in Inverness! Once settled, take a walk along the River Ness over to Inverness Castle for picturesque riverside views.
Train to Inverness!
Located on the River Ness and directly across from Inverness Castle, the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa showcases Victorian elegance with a modern twist. A collection of properties and a modern garden cottage, this hotel offers a charming assortment of contemporary and period guestrooms. Along with a new reception and lounge area, Palace Hotel & Spa is the only Inverness riverside hotel with a Leisure Club & Spa. Eight on the River Brasserie & Bar lets you choose between the Brasserie style menu and the Inclusive Menu, both created to satisfy cravings from Haggis to health food.
A short walk will bring you into Inverness city center, where you can peruse shops, explore Inverness Castle, or catch a show at Eden Court Theatre. Spirited travelers enjoy the Whiskey trail across the Highlands and Grampian, where they can sample the finest Scottish Malts. Wherever you venture, you'll be swept away by the city imbued with history and folklore.
As aesthetically pleasing as it is comforting, the River Ness Hotel is a member of the Radisson Individuals chain of contemporary hotels. Offering an incredible atmosphere and set within perfect distance from central Inverness, this 4-star rated hotel is perfect for guests of all types. Each room is decorated in a sleek new-age style with contrasting colors and wood-finish accents. Each room features a television, mini-fridge, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and more.
Guests may enjoy a nice workout at the onsite fitness center, or take a walk around the gorgeous surrounding city. The hotel serves British style cuisine at the on-site restaurant, open starting from breakfast and lasting through late dinner. Daily housekeeping is also provided.
Nearby attractions include Fort George, Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield, among many others. Central Inverness is just a few minutes walking distance away.
Set in nine acres of parkland with spectacular views over the Moray Firth, the listed art deco New Drumossie Hotel is an oasis of peace and elegance. In close reach of several of the finest links golf courses in the world, this welcoming Highland destination is located ten minutes from Inverness centre. Perfectly positioned for the rich, local heritage of Culloden, Loch Ness and the Cairngorms, the new Drumossie Hotel is perfect for a relaxing weekend.
Experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands from the comfort of your luxurious, peaceful room at the New Drumossie Hotel. Appointed to the highest standard, enjoy traditional grandeur which comes with satellite television, a large comfortable bed and a spacious en-suite with separate bath and shower. For deluxe toiletries and even more space, upgrade to a Feature Room. Accessible Rooms and Family Rooms are also available on request.
Set within four acres of manicured grounds and just one mile from Inverness city center, the Kingsmills Hotel is an elegant retreat in an idyllic Scottish setting. A former mansion dating from 1786, the Kingsmills has been transformed into a luxurious hotel that expertly combines tradition and style. Indulge your senses with 114 relaxing bedrooms, many with private balconies and patios, or views over the neighboring golf course. Guests at the Kingsmills Hotel have full use of the leisure club including gym, spa and swimming pool. Due to its close proximity to the Inverness Golf Course, the hotel is the perfect base for a golf break. There are two restaurants available for dining - The Inglis Restaurant offers a fixed price menu which is perfect for a pre-theater dinner, and the Conservatory offers a la carte dining in a beautiful garden setting.
Day 5. Inverness
Today, enjoy your special Loch Ness tour! No visit to the Scottish Highlands is complete without a tour of this world-famous landmark, which is overflowing with fascinating myths, turbulent history, and tales of a legendary monster.
This small-group day tour lets you discover all the
marvelous views and secrets of Loch Ness! No one can resist the mythical Loch
Ness; its beauty evokes a sense of wonder, while its monstrous depths are legendary
– and on this tour you’ll explore all of it. You’ll enjoy incredible views from
an hour-long cruise, learn about the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, and
experience the less frequented south roads of the loch. Along the way you’ll
visit Dores, a tiny village boasting the most striking vista of Loch Ness and
the Great Glen Rift Valley; the forest community of Foyers with the hidden-away
Falls of Foyers, a favorite spot of Robert Burns; Fort Augustus, where you’ll view
the boats coming in through the Caledonia Canal; and the lush forests and cascading
waterfalls of Invermoriston. Even if Nessie doesn’t make an appearance, your
guide will bring the loch to life with intriguing tales and history. (Please note: the included Loch Ness boat
cruise is weather-dependent and may be canceled without notice.)
Day 6. Inverness - Glasgow
Enjoy one more train ride over to Glasgow, Scotland's cultural capital today. Start your Glasgow adventure off by touring the breathtaking City Chambers, which is actually comprised of more marble than there is in the whole of Italy's Vatican City!
A Tip For Your Trip: Tours of the City Chamber are free and take place daily.
Train to Glasgow!
Enjoy the view out over the River Clyde while staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Center. A 2-minute walk will bring you to the Scottish Exhibition and Conference center and a 10-minute walk will deliver you directly to the Glasgow City Center. The hotel boasts an award-winning City Cafe Bar and Grill that serves up exquisite meals using local and quality ingredients, and offers the choice to dine on the terrace. Or, a Pavilion Pantry offers food and drinks 24 hours a day. A gym and laundry facilitates are also available.
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, coffee and tea making facilities, modern bathrooms, and come rooms have views of the river.
The Address is a 4-star hotel located right in the lively heart of Glasgow.
The hotel features a restaurant and bar called NORTH, which offer a diverse and relaxed dining experience with seasonable dishes and carefully curated cocktails. Guests have access to the hotel's wellness center which is complete with a gym, plunge pool, and a Himalayan salt rock sauna.
Guest rooms are newly refurbished complete with all the comforts for an enjoyable stay. Amenities include a private bathroom, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a TV, in-room safe, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron, and a work desk.
Glasgow Airport is a 36-minute drive from the hotel, and the Buchanan Street Subway station is 8-minutes away on foot. Other nearby points of interest include Glengoyne Distillery, Glasgow Botanical Gardens, and Glasgow Science Center.
Located in a historic building in Glasgow's West End is the upscale Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel. The Botanic Gardens are just a 2-minute walk away, while top sights like the People's Palace and Kelvingrove Art Gallery are also nearby.
Guests can enjoy afternoon tea and other drinks at The Terrace on-site, which provides gorgeous views of the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. There is also a delicious steakhouse and gin bar at the hotel.
All rooms at the hotel are warmly decorated and come with free Wi-Fi. Other amenities include an LCD TV, work desk, marble bathroom, and safe. 24-hour room service is also available.
Millennium Hotel Glasgow is positioned in the city center of Glasgow, next to Queen Street Station and only a short 20 minute journey from Glasgow International Airport. Situated on George Square, the Millennium Hotel Glasgow is located at the heart of a thriving city, which offers outstanding shopping, cultural and nightlife attractions. The hotel provides easy access too many of the city's venues, as well as to the tranquil Scottish countryside, including Loch Lomond, the Trossachs, the Ayrshire coast and the Scottish Highlands.
The hotel is a striking Victorian building with an impressive façade, which is conveniently situated in Glasgow city center. The hotel offers guests traditional charm, contemporary amenities, a warm and friendly service and delicious dining options. Guests can enjoy the impressive surroundings and architecture of George Square when dining at the hotel brasserie, which offers seasonal Scottish cuisine. Guests staying at this hotel will appreciate its proximity too many local venues and attractions, as well as to the tranquil Scottish countryside.
Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central is a 4-star hotel just a few short steps away from Buchanan Street shopping, and Bath Street restaurants. The hotel features an indoor pool, a steam room and sauna, fitness center, and parking for a small fee. The hotel's on-site restaurant Cask and Clyde offers guess classic dishes with a Scottish twist and meals are served with pleasant Glasweigan hospitality. Guests have the opportunity to dine in at the restaurant, have a cocktail, or order off the menu for room service.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, and many have a view of the city. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, an in-room safe, a private bathroom with a tub or shower, a hairdryer, desk, air-conditioning, and a TV. Hypo-allergenic bedding can also be requested. In addition to that, room service is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Glasgow Airport is closest to this hotel. Additionally, Cowcaddens Metro is a 4-minute walk from the hotel, and George Square is within a 15-minute walk. Other great sites such as St. Munco Museum of Religious Life and Art, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum are all within an 8-minute car ride from the hotel.
Please Note
Day 7. Glasgow
Explore the city with help from your included sightseeing bus pass today! From the top deck of the tour bus you will enjoy sweeping views of the beautiful landscapes and exceptional architecture that this city has to offer - from famous art galleries and museums to attractive parks. Consider taking one full loop to first enjoy the audio tours, including a special Ghoulish Glasgow channel for children!
Visit the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to artworks from many European masters, from Monet to Van Gogh to Rembrandt. Those with a taste for the performing arts may want to catch a show at the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, or National Theater of Scotland.
A Tip For Your Trip: The full loop of the sightseeing bus takes approximately 105 minutes.
Discover Glasgow’s main attractions in this exciting destination aboard the open-top bus. Create your own itinerary by hopping on and off at different stops along the route. With your 24-hour ticket and 22 individual stops, you won’t miss anything in this beautiful Scottish city. Learn more about the history of the city with the multilingual audio guide and special commentary for children. The full loop takes approximately 80 minutes - however you can hop on and off wherever and whenever you'd like, along the way.
Day 8. Depart Scotland
Your Scotland adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to the airport in accordance with your departure flight.
Transfer from Glascow hotel to GLA Airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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