Small Group Journey: Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow
A true Scottish adventure
During this epic 8-night escorted getaway, discover the very best of Scotland with tons of included tours and exciting experiences plus the convenience of a small group of no more than 21 passengers. Spend nights in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, exploring everything from culture and castles to art and a bit of whisky.
Our Small Group Journeys provide many extra benefits, including:
- Limited to 21 people
- Guaranteed departures
- Centrally-located, 4-star hotels
- Extra nights in each city (less unpacking!)
- More free time and flexibility
- Stress-free with transportation, accommodations, tours and more included
What's Included
AIRFARE:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfare into and out of Edinburgh (EDI)
HOTELS: You will be in the following 4-star hotels, or similar:
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
- 3 nights in Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel
- 2 nights in Glasgow at Hilton Glasgow Hotel
- 1 night in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
SIGHTSEEING/TOURS as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Half-day Edinburgh Walking Tour including entrance to Edinburgh Castle (4 hours)
- Visits to St. Andrews (the "home of golf") and Pitlochry
- Day trip to the Isle of Skye with a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle (10 hours)
- Loch Ness Cruise and Speyside Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting (8 hours)
- Journey through Ft. William, Glencoe & Loch Lomond with a visit to Luss
- Half-day Panoramic Tour of Glasgow (4 hours)
- Visits to The Kelpies, Linlithgow & South Queensferry
MEALS:
- Breakfast daily
- Hosted welcome dinner in Edinburgh
- Farewell dinner in Edinburgh
TRANSPORTATION/GUIDES:
- Arrival airport transfer from Edinburgh Airport to hotel
- Services of a professional touring guide for 6 days with vehicle/driver
- Departure airport transfer from hotel to Edinburgh Airport
Want to combine this with a 7-night Small Group Journey in Ireland? Click here!
Great Ways to Explore
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Spend time at the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Sample the fine whisky of Scotland, including Macallan and Glenfiddich.
-
Enjoy a stroll through St. Andrew, Scotland's oldest university town.
-
Explore the beauty of Glasgow during your included half-day tour.
-
Experience a Loch Ness cruise – if you're lucky you might spot Nessie!
Get ready to experience the best of Scotland with the convenience of a small group guided tour. Start your journey in Edinburgh, embracing the vibrance of the city. Explore the historic streets of the Old Town while sampling some of Edinburgh's delicious offerings. End your time in the capital city at Edinburgh Castle before heading north to Inverness.
Here, you'll enjoy the scenic views of Scotland's highlands. Spend time on the Isle of Skye and snap photos of stunning Eilean Donan Castle while taking in the surrounding environment. After your included Loch Ness cruise, you'll head down to the Cardhu Distillery to participate in a whisky tasting.
The last leg of your escorted journey brings you to Scotland's largest city – Glasgow! Enjoy your included panoramic tour of the city before continuing to explore the culture of Glasgow at the Cathedral Precinct, the St. Mungo Museum, and the Mackintosh House.
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.
AIRFARE:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfare into and out of Edinburgh (EDI)
HOTELS: You will be in the following 4-star hotels, or similar:
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
- 3 nights in Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel
- 2 nights in Glasgow at Hilton Glasgow Hotel
- 1 night in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
SIGHTSEEING/TOURS as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Half-day Edinburgh Walking Tour including entrance to Edinburgh Castle (4 hours)
- Visits to St. Andrews (the "home of golf") and Pitlochry
- Day trip to the Isle of Skye with a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle (10 hours)
- Loch Ness Cruise and Speyside Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting (8 hours)
- Journey through Ft. William, Glencoe & Loch Lomond with a visit to Luss
- Half-day Panoramic Tour of Glasgow (4 hours)
- Visits to The Kelpies, Linlithgow & South Queensferry
MEALS:
- Breakfast daily
- Hosted welcome dinner in Edinburgh
- Farewell dinner in Edinburgh
TRANSPORTATION/GUIDES:
- Arrival airport transfer from Edinburgh Airport to hotel
- Services of a professional touring guide for 6 days with vehicle/driver
- Departure airport transfer from hotel to Edinburgh Airport
Want to combine this with a 7-night Small Group Journey in Ireland? Click here!
-
Spend time at the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Sample the fine whisky of Scotland, including Macallan and Glenfiddich.
-
Enjoy a stroll through St. Andrew, Scotland's oldest university town.
-
Explore the beauty of Glasgow during your included half-day tour.
-
Experience a Loch Ness cruise – if you're lucky you might spot Nessie!
Get ready to experience the best of Scotland with the convenience of a small group guided tour. Start your journey in Edinburgh, embracing the vibrance of the city. Explore the historic streets of the Old Town while sampling some of Edinburgh's delicious offerings. End your time in the capital city at Edinburgh Castle before heading north to Inverness.
Here, you'll enjoy the scenic views of Scotland's highlands. Spend time on the Isle of Skye and snap photos of stunning Eilean Donan Castle while taking in the surrounding environment. After your included Loch Ness cruise, you'll head down to the Cardhu Distillery to participate in a whisky tasting.
The last leg of your escorted journey brings you to Scotland's largest city – Glasgow! Enjoy your included panoramic tour of the city before continuing to explore the culture of Glasgow at the Cathedral Precinct, the St. Mungo Museum, and the Mackintosh House.
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!
Land at Edinburgh Airport and take your transfer to the hotel. Once you are settled in, prepare for your hosted welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers.
Transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
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.Day 2. Edinburgh
Enjoy the morning on foot with your local guide exploring Scotland’s beautiful capital city, dominated by its ancient fortress, Edinburgh Castle, towering high above the city and offering the most wonderful views. Stroll the historic streets of the Old Town which contrast strikingly with the elegance and classical architecture of the 18th-century New Town. Peek into some of the city’s quirky little independent shops and perhaps taste some of their delicious offerings including traditional Scottish cheeses, artisan liquors, hand-crafted pastries, and of course wonderful whiskies! Top it all off with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and journey back in time as you discover this mighty fortress and former royal residence, now a major part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Day 3. Edinburgh - Inverness
Depart from your hotel with your driver/guide and make your way north to the dramatic Scottish highlands. On the way, you will visit St Andrew’s, Scotland’s oldest university town and home of the world-famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club. Stroll the historic old town and cliff-top while taking in the fresh sea air. After spending approximately 2 hours here, leave St. Andrews and continue your journey onward to Pitlochry. Once you have enjoyed a late lunch (not included) your guide will take you on a short walking tour of this peaceful and pleasant highland town. You will also have some time at leisure to peruse the small shops for some local goods to take home with you. The final leg of your journey will take you along the western edge of the Cairngorms National Park, the famous winter resort of Aviemore before arriving at your final destination, Inverness, the gateway to the highlands.
Check-in - Mercure Inverness Hotel
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.Â
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.
Day 4. Inverness
Escorted by your driver/guide, the Isle of Skye welcomes you to experience its dramatic mountain scenery and picturesque seascapes. Travel alongside the length of Loch Ness to see the famously romantic 13th century Eilean Donan Castle for a photo stop. Situated on a small tidal island, it's one of Scotland's most picturesque and iconic sights.
Your tour then continues via Kyle of Lochalsh where you cross "over the sea to Skye", heading up the island’s east coast through the stunning Red Cuillin Mountains to Sligachan before arriving in Portree. On arrival to the town of Portree, take some time at leisure to explore the coastal town streets or grab a bite to eat. After you have spent time here, you will now get to experience some of Skye’s most famous scenery such as The Old Man of Storr or Kilt Rock. The rural charm of the area and the local characters, namely sheep and cattle on the road, are memories you won’t forget. Return to Inverness, traveling back over the bridge - your journey home will be slightly different to the morning’s journey, giving you a chance to experience more of the remote Scottish Highlands.
Lake Loch Ness, Scotland
Day 5. Inverness
This morning, head directly to Loch Ness where you will board your boat for a scenic cruise - keep your eye out to spot Nessie! Your driver/guide will be waiting to pick you up after the cruise and you will continue your tour east to the famous Speyside region of Scotland, and along the way you will stop for lunch (not included).
Speyside is world famous and is home to over half of Scotland’s whisky distilleries including Macallan and Glenfiddich. Cardhu Distillery is where you will get to visit and taste this effortless and elegant single malt scotch whisky. Your Cardhu Flavour Journey Tour will last approximately 1.5 hours showcasing how their inventive, pioneering nature fueled a quest to capture the generosity of Speyside in the highly-coveted malt, noted for its sensual pour and rich, smooth character. Enjoy your journey back to Inverness along the Moray coastline.
Whisky Tasting
A Tip For Your Trip: Whisky tour is subject to availability and an alternative distillery will be visited if Cardhu is not available.
Day 6. Inverness - Glasgow
After check-out, meet your driver/guide for a full day journey to Glasgow. En route, you'll pass through the stunning Glencoe Valley of the Scottish Highlands, a picturesque and historic pass – most famously known today as a filming location for the James Bonds Skyfall movie. Historically, it was also the location of the 1692 Massacre of Glencoe, where 38 members of Clan MacDonald were killed by forces of King William II.
Continuing along, you'll pass through the western side Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, catching views of the Arrochar Alps as you skirt alongside the shores of the massive loch. Enjoy a visit to the quaint village of Luss, located loch side. At the end of the pier, you can gaze out over Loch Lomond with the imposing Ben Lomond in the background. Conclude your day on arrival to Glasgow.
Check-in - Hilton Glasgow Hotel
With a central location in the heart of Glasgow's business district, Hilton Glasgow is conveniently situated for all the city's most popular attractions. Just a short walk from the iconic King's Theater, the hotel is also a stone's throw away from the city's central station and approximately 15 minutes away from Glasgow International Airport. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to experience all that Scotland’s largest city has to offer, as it is close to the SECC, has great shopping, and has excellent bars and restaurants.
Day 7. Glasgow
Scotland's largest city is well worth discovering, with the only remaining intact Gothic cathedral on the Scottish mainland and its fine museums. On this morning’s panoramic tour with your private driver/guide, learn how a small settlement, founded by a 6th-century saint on the banks of the River Clyde, developed through industry and commerce to become the Second City of Empire, boasting the finest collection of Victorian architecture outside London. View the Cathedral Precinct, the Necropolis, the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art, and see the Gallery of Modern Art, housed in the former mansion of a tobacco merchant. Additionally, Glasgow has its excellent Hunterian Museum and Mackintosh House, a venue dedicated to local architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Don’t miss the nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, so much part of the life and soul of the city.
River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland
Day 8. Glasgow - Edinburgh
Departing Scotland’s largest city you will now head back to the beautiful capital city, Edinburgh. En route, you will make a stop at The Kelpies. Standing at 100 feet tall, the magical Kelpies are a man-made wonder and a feat of engineering. Moving on, you will next make a stop at Linlithgow, an ancient burgh that is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Your guide will take you on foot to explore the historic town along with Linlithgow Palace, a 15th-century ruin that is positioned perfectly beside Linlithgow Loch. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included).
After lunch, you will board the coach for your final stop at South Queensferry. South Queensferry is a small village just outside of Edinburgh, located on the shore. Here you can walk the quaint streets, explore the local boutiques, and admire the Forth Bridges; created 125 years ago and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the final leg of your trip back to Edinburgh, and toast to the end of your journey with your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner this evening.
Check-in - Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
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.Day 9. Depart Edinburgh
After a delicious breakfast, gather your belongings and take your transfer to the airport. Hop aboard your flight and reminisce about your Scottish adventure on your way home!