Highlights of Scotland by Rail
Explore the mysteries of Loch Ness
Adventure through Scotland's most popular cities with this 7- or 10-night vacation! Make your way from city to city on the Scottish Rail, then enjoy unique tours at each of your destinations.
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 Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Royal Tour Ticket with fast-track access to:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Holyrood Palace
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Mercure Inverness Hotel or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (1 Day)
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Enjoy scenic views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, which sits perched atop an extinct volcano.
- Pay a visit to Scotland's oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh!
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Enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside as you ride the rail from city to city.
-
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 Royal Tour 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.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 Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Royal Tour Ticket with fast-track access to:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Holyrood Palace
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Mercure Inverness Hotel or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (1 Day)
- Breakfast Daily
-
Enjoy scenic views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, which sits perched atop an extinct volcano.
- Pay a visit to Scotland's oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh!
-
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside as you ride the rail from city to city.
-
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 Royal Tour 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.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.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Edinburgh!
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and enjoy a private airport transfer to your Edinburgh accommodation, the Jurys Inn. The rest of your day can be spent at leisure.
Transfer from EDI Airport to Edinburgh hotel
Experience the true history, beauty, and culture of Edinburgh at the centrally positioned Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh. Located just off the famous Royal Mile, you'll be right in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town. In just steps, find yourself at Holyrood Park, Princes Street Gardens, or the Edinburgh Castle! Head back to the hotel and recharge at the all-day Costa Coffee Bar, perfect for curling up and relaxing with a good book.
Unwind with a drink at the hotel's stylish on-site bar, then head to the contemporary restaurant and indulge in a mouthwatering meal. After an exciting day, close the door to your room and escape to a state of peace and tranquility. You'll completely forget that a bustling city exists right outside. Relax in your large soft bed, catch up on your favorite TV shows, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure. If you happen to crave a midnight snack, don't worry - room service will be at your door in just minutes.
Experience true luxury at this stylish hotel nestled right on the Royal Mile. Dating back to the early 1900s, this historic Victorian building is an aesthetic icon of the city. Take advantage of its unique North Bridge location, which links Edinburgh's Old and New Town together. Shop the day away, treat yourself to a tasty bite at a cafe, walk over to Edinburgh Castle, or discover the city's vibrant nightlife.
After an exciting day, stroll back to the hotel and take a nap on your large, comfortable bed. Freshen up in the luxurious bathroom, use the hotel's free WiFi to share photos with family and friends back home, and catch up on some TV. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at its elegant Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed atmosphere that boasts glamorous decor and warm vibes. Looking for something a bit less formal? Head to the trendy on-site Nineteen Hundred Bar & Lounge and sip on a cocktail while you sample small plates. If both of these options sound like too much work, go ahead and stay cozy in bed. Room service will be there for you 24/7.
Relax and unwind at The Macdonald 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 Macdonald 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.
Located in the historical heart of the city near Haymarket station, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is the perfect place from which to explore Scotland's enchanting capital city. Each of the 282 comfortable and modern rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, bottled water and double-glazed windows for a peaceful sleep. Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast and cap off a day of adventure with a meal at the on-site restaurant. Conveniently located to the major sites of Edinburgh, the hotel is located close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Please note this hotel was formerly known as the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh.Stay in a fine 3-star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center’s popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi is available in the 169 stylish guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Scott's on Princes Street is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; as well as for light snacks and drinks. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Edinburgh castle from the hotel. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus and only 7 minutes walking distance from Waverley train station.
The Edinburgh Princes Street hotel is above the Princes Street shops near Edinburgh Waverley Station, with direct rail services to UK cities. Edinburgh bus station is 500 meters away, and the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus stops 150 meters from the hotel. From Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus-stop follow Waverley Bridge, walk up towards the Scott Monument on your left. Continue over the crossing towards the monument. The hotel is opposite you, between Jenner’s department store and Marks & Spencer.Day 2. Edinburgh
Start using your Royal Tour ticket today! You’ll receive 48-hour unlimited access to four city tours. Consider hopping on the Edinburgh tour today; you'll make stops at the National Museum of Scotland, Scottish Parliament, Old town and more. Be sure to hop off at the Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse stops so you can take advantage of your included fast-track access.
Royal Edinburgh Ticket
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 four city tours, as well as fast-track admission 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).
Tours Included with Your Ticket:
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.
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.
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.
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!
Enjoy warm Highland hospitality in Old Town Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel, situated in the heart of the vibrant city center on the banks of the River Ness. Rebuilt on the site of the original Caledonian Hotel, this modern hotel is just a 6-minute walk from Inverness train station and a stone's throw from the city's numerous pubs and restaurants.
Each of the 118 rooms come with flat screen TVs, complimentary WiFi, tea/coffeemaking facilities and views of the River Ness or Old Town. Explore the beautiful surroundings, including legendary Loch Ness six miles away or keep yourself in peak fitness with a workout in out fully-equipped gym. Enjoy a meal at the traditional brasserie with a bar.
Located on the River Ness and directly across from Inverness Castle, Best Western 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.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Scotland at the Leonardo Hotel Inverness. Wake up in your bright, spacious room and head down to the hotel's spa and fitness center. Relax in the sauna, work out all your stresses in the gym, practice your laps in the large pool, or show off your best moves in the dance studio!
When it's time to get adventuring, lace up your shoes and explore the breathtaking sights in the "Capital of the Highlands." In just minutes, you'll be awe-struck by the picturesque scenery of the Beauly Firth. Take a couple of worthwhile short drives to the famous Cairngorms National, Loch Ness, and other famous Scottish landscapes. Head back towards home base and check out Inverness city centre, where you can enjoy museums, theaters, restaurants, and bars.
Be sure to make time for some great Scottish meals! Indulge in fresh, traditional dishes and take in the friendly, stylish atmosphere at Cromarty Restaurant, the hotel's on-site restaurant. Or, after a long day of exploring, grab a drink and a light bite at the hotel's Dornoch Bar. Head up to your cozy room to unwind, look through pictures, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day.
Stay at the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace for a quiet, modern hotel experience! Rooms include free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Grab a snack at the Terrace Brasserie, or work out in the modern Techno gym. You’ll be close to landmarks like Calton Hill and Waterloo Place, and about 7 miles from Edinburgh Airport.
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.
The Complete Loch Ness Experience (ASA)
This small-group day tour lets you discover all the marvelous views and secrets of Loch Ness! You leave Inverness and follow the Caledonian Canal to the source of the River Ness. Your guide takes you down the road less traveled to Dores, on the eastern side of the loch. This tiny village boasts a beach with the most striking vista of Loch Ness and the Great Glen rift valley. Just a short ride away is your next stop, the forest community of Foyers, where you can walk downhill through native pine trees to see the hidden-away Falls of Foyers. This stunning waterfall was a favorite spot for Robert Burns, and if you're lucky you may spot a dashing red squirrel! Invigorated after the falls, you continue south, driving on single track roads in a typical Highland experience. After a twisty drive through forested landscape, you arrive at Fort Augustus, the furthermost point of the tour. Here you can have your lunch (not included) and take pictures of the boats coming in through the Caledonian Canal. Next, you'll venture to Invermoriston, where you can take a short walk to an old summer house, with views of the River Moriston. Whether you believe the legends or not, keep your eyes peeled for the monster and breathtaking vistas, as we continue along the banks of Loch Ness. If you want to discover more of the beauty and mystery of the loch, embark on a one-hour cruise and sail past Urquhart Castle (optional, and at an extra cost). Then, we continue along Loch Ness and return to Inverness in the early evening.
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!
Walk in to stylish comfort, friendly smiles, and signature warm chocolate chip cookies. After checking in, open the door to your room and fall into a state of pure tranquility and relaxation. Sprawl out on your large bed, catch up on some TV, or use the hotel's free WiFi to say hello to family and friends. When it's time to explore Glasgow, take a walk to the nearby main shopping district and many top attractions including the famous Glasgow City Chambers and iconic Glasgow Cathedral. In the mood to venture farther? Not to worry. This hotel is just 10 short minutes from two bustling railway stations.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool. Unwind with a pre-dinner drink in the Cask Bar, the indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at the sophisticated on-site Brisket Restaurant. Savor craft beers, fine wines, and fine beef from The Buccleuch estate.
Situated in the heart of Glasgow, the Leonardo Hotel Glasgow is a stone’s throw away from a plethora of restaurants and bars, a three minute walk from St Enoch shopping center and just around the corner from Alston Bar & Beef, the best steak and gin in Glasgow. The hotel is within a ten minute walk of three major stations - Glasgow Central, Queen Street and Argyle Street, making it the ideal hotel for transport links within the city center.
The Leonardo Glasgow offers 321 comfortable, stylish rooms with complimentary toiletries, a flat screen TV, free WiFi, air conditioning and room service available 24 hours. Enjoy a little Scottish flavor and a dram of Scotch at The Grill Bar. Enjoy coffee or hot chocolate from the all-day Costa coffee bar where you can sit with a newspaper, curl up with a good book, or surf the web on Jurys Inn’s hotel-wide free WiFi.
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.
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.
Centrally located in Glasgow City, the Mercure Glasgow City Hotel is within a half mile from Glasgow Central railway station. The city's top bars, gourmet restaurants, galleries and museums are right at your doorstep. The Mercure Glasgow City Hotel is located on Ingram Street, Glasgow’s most exclusive fashion boulevard and just steps from iconic George Square. Enjoy comfortable bedrooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Relax in the comfort of the Bar and Brasserie with it’s mouth watering dishes created with locally sourced products.
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.
Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (1 Day)
Experience vibrant Glasgow from the top deck of a tour bus! Explore famous art galleries and museums, hop off at picturesque parks, or enjoy the full-loop on the bus and enjoy the audio tours, including a special Ghoulish Glasgow channel for children! The hop-on/hop-off bus tours provide entertaining and colorful insight into Glasgow’s past and present. The full loop takes approximately 105 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!
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