This guide provides you with the best one day tours from Edinburgh that you can experience. It includes some of the most popular destinations, like Loch Ness, Highlands, and Outlander filming locations.
Travel with a group of people who have the same interests as you to explore Scotland. The itineraries are personally designed and will take you to the must-see highlights, the hidden gems and take you through your journey in a way that feels like you’ve really explored.
The average group size is between 10-16. Not too small that you’re feeling disconnected, but not too big to make new friendships. No matter if you are travelling solo or with friends, small group tours are perfect. Solo travellers need reassurance and fun whilst couples, friends and families are looking for unforgettable moments to share with the rest of the world.
Why choose a small group tour?
- Tour companies compiled a list of the best places to explore in Scotland. We’re confident that you won’t miss any hidden gems
- You’re in great hands with knowledgeable, passionate local guides.
- Average groups of 10-16; solo travellers, couples, families and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.
- Flexible booking policy and sustainable approach.
- Small group tours get you closer to your destination and allow you to experience places, people and things more intimately
5 Reasons small group tours are better than independent travel
- No hassle with a car rental and driving the other side of the road
- A small group of travellers offers a great opportunity to socialize and meet new people while still maintaining some independence. Solo travellers looking for friends and connections will be able to form them with other members of the group quickly.
- Group trips are often led by local guides with local connections.
- A guide can often be entertaining and interesting while telling you about history, or life in Scotland.
- In a small-group tour, if you get ill or injured, you have the immediate help of your tour leader
If you are planning a small group tour you’ll have the opportunity to explore this beautiful country with confidence. You can learn more about the best one day tours from Edinburgh here!
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Myths, monsters, and mountains: this tour is the best way to see Scotland in a day. Get a chance to hear legends about the Jacobites, take a look at Glencoe, and maybe spot the mythical Loch Ness Monster. On this one day tour from Edinburgh, you will have plenty of incredible sights of the Scottish Highlands.
Combine Scotland's history with Scotland's natural beauty, and the results are stunning. From grand battles to outlaw hideouts - this country has plenty of both to showcase. Walk through Rob Roy's footsteps or follow William Wallace on his many journeys around the country. History is never far away when exploring this beautiful nation. You'll admire gorgeous scenery and learn about the various stories that are etched across our country's landscape.
Visit charming villages and delightfully medieval towns in this one day tour, while soaking in some amazing views. Contrast the magnificent architecture of a rural hilltop church with a sweeping coastline where you can enjoy views of some spectacular ruins.
Take this one tour from Edinburgh to the three most iconic Scottish castles and one of the most eye-catching villages in all of Scotland - all inspired by the hit TV series Outlander. Prepare to be back in the 1700s, the story of Claire and Jamie. Join this on-location tour on your way to Scotland's REAL Outlander sites
This tour will take you to Rosslyn Chapel where the Knights Templar are said to have hidden the Holy Grail, magnificent Tweed Valley and Melrose Abbey the alleged burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart.
This one day tour from Edinburgh will take you out to the majestic Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle. You'll get a scenic drive through the green rolling hills of Scotland, with stops for photos of Highland Cows, the Trossachs National Park, and Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. After touring the Stirling Castle, stop by the scenic Loch Lomond for some great views. The largest lake in Scotland, it is worth visiting no matter what time of year. Finish your Scottish experience sampling Scotch whisky at the acclaimed Glengoyne Distillery
Discover the palaces and castles of TV’s ‘Outlander’ series on a 9.5-hour tour from Edinburgh. Visit some of the sites that starred in the fictional Jacobite saga, including Blackness Castle, the headquarters of Jack Randall, and Hopetoun House, the Duke of Sandringham’s residence. Explore Wentworth Prison, set in Linlithgow Palace, and see Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Mercat Cross (Cranesmuir), and more, as you hear trivia on the series and its stars.
Swap the hustle and bustle of life in the city for a day of sightseeing on this Scottish Highlands tour. In the morning, depart from Edinburgh taking in views along the way. Then, board the Jacobite Steam Train (a double for the Hogwarts Express) and travel along the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the films. Finally, see Glencoe’s dramatic scenery before your return trip.
If you want to immerse yourself in Scottish culture, join for a day-long tour through the Highlands. Explore the incredible scenery of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, delight in the majesty of Scotland's great outdoors, take a break for whisky tasting. Head back home to Edinburgh for guaranteed entrance into the Military Tattoo. A thrilling light show and military performance on Edinburgh Castle’s esplanade
Visit Holy Island overlooking the beautiful Northumberland coastline. Have fun at Alnwick Castle, the Windsor of the North. Go with costumed guides on a historical and magical tour of Alnwick Castle.
