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Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

4.7 Great 2965 reviews
|
13h
|
English
Free cancellation · up to 24 hours before Instant confirmation Live guide

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
2965 reviews
5
2410
4
293
3
113
2
64
1
85
Ratings collected from Guidekin & Viator & Tripadvisor
Recommended by 91% of travellers: 2703 four- and five-star reviews

Overview

Guidekin summary

Cairngorms National Park, Glen Coe and Loch Ness feature on this coach route, with an optional cruise and Urquhart Castle visit. Air-conditioned transport, panoramic windows and live commentary are included; cruise and castle tickets require extra payment in cash. 4.65 from 2,965 reviews at €65 per person for 13h.

From the guide

Immerse yourself in spectacular scenery, beguiling mystery and dramatic history on this day trip from Edinburgh. Traveling to the Scottish Highlands, witness the stunning vistas of Cairngorms National Park and cruise along world-famous Loch Ness in search of the Loch Ness Monster and tour Urquhart Castle ruins. Admire an ancient castle in Stirling as you pass by, learn about the massacre at Glen Coe and the adventures of Scottish legend William Wallace, whose life is depicted in the film ‘Braveheart.’ Be sure to bring your camera to capture stunning views and maybe even a glimpse of ‘Nessie’!

Please note on December 26 there will be no castle or cruise available

Schedule & Availability

Runs daily
Departures: 07:15, 08:00
Scheduled through September 2027

This tour runs daily, departing at 07:15, 08:00. Scheduled through September 2027. These are the operator’s scheduled departures, not a live seat count: availability is confirmed at checkout. Schedule last checked October 1, 2026.

What's Included

In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Local live driver guide who will share stories and history throughout the day
Panoramic windows

What's Not Included

Food and drinks
Gratuities
Children under 3 years not accepted- valid ID may be required at check in
Entrance fees - Adult, Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle Tour- Cash only
Entrance fees - Child, Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle Tour- Cash Only

Itinerary

As we head north the first stop of the day is at this charming location nestl... Stop 1
As we head north the first stop of the day is at this charming location nestled in the heart of Perthshire - a wonderful place for a refreshment stop and the chance to meet and feed Highland coo!
30 min
Cairngorms National Park Stop 2
Through the Cairngorms and the wild wilderness. The Cairngorms are home to some of the highest peaks in the British Isles, including Ben Macdui and Braeriach. These mountains, with their rugged slopes and dramatic ridges, offer stunning vistas. You'll love taking in the landscapes as you continue to travel north.
Pass by
Loch Ness Stop 3
Highlight of the day is Loch Ness. Known worldwide for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie." This deep, freshwater loch stretches approximately 23 miles long and is surrounded by stunning scenery, we stop so you can explore its mysteries and enjoy its natural beauty. You have the option to enjoy a cruise on the loch for some monster spotting combined with a visit to Urquhart Castle (£30.00 extra per adult, cash only) Alternatively, you could enjoy the views from the shores of the loch.
1h
Urquhart Castle Stop 4
Enjoy clambering around the ruins of the castle perched right on the banks of Loch Ness. Urquhart Castle is a historic fortress steeped in centuries of intrigue and offers panoramic views of the iconic loch. Entrance is combined with the cruise option; your driver guide will give you more details on the day!
1h
Glencoe National Nature Reserve Stop 5
Glen Coe, a breathtaking valley in the Scottish Highlands, is renowned for its rugged beauty, towering peaks, and tragic history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Listen to the tale of murder and massacre from your driver-guide before you stop for those all important photographic memories.
15 min

Departure & Return

Start point

Please check in with Highland Experience staff inside/outside Caffe Nero by 07:45

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Additional Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children under 3 years not accepted. Valid proof of ID may be required at check in.
  • The tour is guided in English
  • On 26th December and 1st January there will be no cruise or castle visit available
  • Please note this tour may operate in reverse
  • Check-in for the tour is 7.45am with departure at 8.00am sharp
  • Visit to Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness cruise £31 per adult and £22 per child with Highland Experience discount, cash required. No need to pre book.
  • We reserve the right to change the tour itinerary at any time due to weather, acts of God, and events out with our control.
  • Due to the distance travelled on this tour, the itinerary involves substantial driving time.
  • There are multiple stops for food. The lunch stop is Loch Ness with cafes at both Urquhart Castle and the Clansman Hotel.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

1+ daysFull refund
0-1 daysNo refund

Compared with other Day Trips from Edinburgh

TourPriceDurationRatingGroup
This tour · #88 of 90€6513h4.65 (2965)shared
Stirling, Highlands & Distillery in Spanish€7712h4.98 (405)shared
Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William€5412h4.93 (6417)shared
Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands€5412h 30m4.92 (6699)shared

Ranked #88 of 90 in Day Trips from Edinburgh by Guidekin score (rating weighted by review volume). Prices here run from €54 to €940, median €77; typical length 10h. 26 of 90 are private. Figures are live from the tour cards; the rubric is our handpicked set, not the whole market. Compare all 90 Day Trips from Edinburgh

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