Scotland Tours & Packages

Scotland Tours by Region

Tour magical Scotland, where you’ll lose yourself in a delightful land of legends and romance. From cozy old-fashioned pubs to misty moors, our Scotland vacation packages to this northern land will capture your heart. Whether you crave the majestic moors and lochs of the Highlands or the cultured, captivating cities of the south, our trips to Scotland will enchant you. Explore the cobbled lanes of historic cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, where the streets are lined with magnificent architectural relics from medieval to Georgian. Historic cathedrals, castles, abbeys, and estates will invite your imagination into centuries gone by. In the Highlands, trod on ancient battlefields and linger loch-side, gazing at dramatic mountains and herds of shaggy Highland cattle. Watch the mist roll through prehistoric pagan stone circles and envelop castles flanked by green hillsides. You’ll taste the landscape from north to south in iconic Scotch whisky, flavored with peat from Scottish bogs and aged in oak. Don’t know what you want to see? Start with our guide to The Best Things to Do in Scotland.

Scottish Highlands

Our Scottish Highlands tours take you to a land of drama and wide, windswept panoramas, where a network of mountain ranges has kept the population small and nature glorious. See rugged Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, soar above Fort William. Surveil the surface of the 23-mile-long Loch Ness, seeking the mysterious Loch Ness Monster. Check out the shops and pubs of charming Inverness, protected from the North Sea by Moray Firth. Nearby, explore Culloden Moor Visitor Center and learn how Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was defeated in 1746. Our Scottish vacation packages are renowned for the stunning scenery accompanying your journey to Thurso, Britain’s most northerly town, and nearby John O’Groats, an ancient Norse port, and fishing village.

Scottish Lowlands

Visit the Scottish Lowlands, where Glasgow and Edinburgh have roots going back 15 centuries. Dynamic Glasgow, the largest shipping port in Scotland, hums with energy as home to cultural attractions like ballet, opera, symphony, and art museums. Visit Edinburgh, renowned for its famous Fringe Festival and pedestrian paradise. Gothic, Georgian, and neoclassical facades line the streets, and the fortified 12th-century Edinburgh Castle, housing the Scottish Crown Jewels, overlooks it all from its perch on Castle Rock. Get a taste of the city’s past with a stroll along the Royal Mile, through the Old Town, to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the British Monarch’s official residence in Scotland. Visitors on an Edinburgh tour in August may witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Other cultural touchstones include Alloway, the birthplace of celebrated Scottish poet Robert Burns; the wonderfully intact Alnwick Castle, a film location representing Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films; and Stirling Castle, the royal residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, and several Scottish kings and queens. On the English border, Quaint Gretna Green gained fame as a wedding destination for young eloping English couples. Explore Scotland’s two first National Parks: the vast Cairngorms National Park and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Let’s not forget the waterfront city of Dundee, distinguished for its status as the first UNESCO City of Design and the original home of marmalade.

Scottish Isles

Scotland has over 900 islands, most of which are uninhabited. Our Scotland travel packages take you to the best of the Orkney Islands off the north coast, dividing the North Atlantic and the North Sea, and two islands of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Mull. The Orkney Islands are accessed by boat from John O’Groats, the most northerly inhabited village in mainland Britain. Meet the rugged people of these beautiful Scottish Islands, who say they live ‘below the wind and above the water. Enjoy the majestic countryside, dramatic coastlines, and tranquil pace. This remote place harbors fascinating features, from pagan stone circles to WWII relics. Few castles are more picturesque than the 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle on the way to the Isle of Skye. It’s reached by bridge on a tiny island where three sea lochs meet. The Isle of Skye is the largest and most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides, rich in wild scenery and sweeping views. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland Tours

When is the best time to tour Scotland?

The best time to tour Scotland is in late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September), when the weather is mild, landscapes are vibrant, and tourist crowds are smaller. These seasons offer long daylight hours, blooming flowers or colorful foliage, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing, without the peak prices and busyness of summer.

What are the best places to visit in Scotland? 

Scotland tours offer breathtaking destinations, including Edinburgh, with its historic castle and vibrant festivals, and Glasgow, known for its lively arts scene. The Scottish Highlands captivate with rugged landscapes, including Glencoe and Ben Nevis. The Isle of Skye mesmerizes with its rugged coastlines and mystical landscapes straight out of a fairy tale, while Loch Ness captivates with its deep, mysterious waters and the enduring legend of its elusive monster. Don't forget a visit Stirling Castle to explore Scotland’s rich history, marvel at its grand architecture, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

How many days do you need to see Scotland? 

If the major cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are on your agenda, they each deserve at least two days. While the Highlands and the Lowlands each merit a week, a 7–10-day tour will give you an excellent introduction to the country.

Is Scotland a separate country from England? 

Yes, Scotland is a separate country from England, but both are part of the United Kingdom (UK). The UK is a sovereign state made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own unique culture, legal systems, and traditions. Scotland also has its own devolved government with powers over areas like education, health, and justice. However, the UK Parliament in London retains control over certain matters such as defense and foreign policy.

What is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

Scotland is fairly far north, with a similar latitude to the Alaska panhandle or Denmark. Summer visitors will enjoy long days and short nights, while shoulder season visitors may encounter more of the wet, chilly weather that keeps the moors and mountains green and the people hardy.

What is considered the Scottish Highlands?

The “Highlands” refers to the mountainous area in the north of Scotland, where the rocky landscape and limited agriculture contributed to smaller, isolated communities and fervent clan loyalty. In contrast, the area known as the Lowlands, which lie to the south, is more hospitable to agriculture, with rolling hills and urbanization.

What should I pack for my trip?

Packing depends on the season and destination, but general travel essentials include comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, a power adapter, weather-appropriate attire, and attire appropriate for visiting religious sites, which can also double as a nice outfit for a night out!. For more tips, visit our guide on What to Pack for a Guided Tour.

What should I wear when visiting religious or cultural sites?

Certain sites have dress codes, such as covering shoulders and knees. For a detailed guide, check What to Wear When Visiting Religious Sites.

Do I need a visa to travel to this destination?

All U.S. passport holders are required to have a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter or transit through the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Apply for Your 2025 UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): VISIT www.gov.uk. Visa requirements vary by country and nationality. U.S. travelers can check the latest visa and entry regulations with our easy-to-use Visa and Passport Requirements Tool.

Should I exchange money before I go?

Most destinations accept major credit cards, but having some local currency can be helpful for small purchases. Learn more about exchanging money in our Guide to Currency Exchange and Payments While Traveling.

How much should I tip in this country?

Tipping customs vary by destination. To avoid confusion, check our comprehensive Tipping Guide for International Travel.

What are some important cultural customs to be aware of?

Understanding local etiquette can enhance your experience. Read our Guide to Cultural Customs and Etiquette Abroad.

Is travel insurance necessary?

Travel insurance provides peace of mind for unexpected situations like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. Learn why it’s recommended in our Travel Insurance Guide.

How do I stay connected while traveling?

Many destinations offer Wi-Fi, but you may need a local SIM card or an international phone plan. For more details, visit our guide on How to Stay Connected While Traveling.

Are there any safety tips I should follow?

Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure is always wise. Read our Essential Safety Tips for Travelers.

How many months in advance should I plan a trip to Scotland?

We recommend you plan your Scotland trip between 3 -10 months before you want to travel. Airlines don’t publish fares much further out than 10-11 months. Off-peak (April–May, October–November), you can book for better deals 3–6 months in advance. Luckily, we take care of all of that for you! If travelers want to go for a special anniversary or event, they’ll call us years ahead of time to book so they know they are set and we're handling the details for them. While we love a great last-minute getaway, always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after you plan to return to the States. Keep current with country entry restrictions, and ensure you have any visas you’ll need to travel. Planning earlier allows you plenty of time to renew your passport or apply for a visa if required.

Why You Should Visit Scotland

Rugged, tranquil, and mysterious, Scotland is an exceptional destination. From dense green highland forests to foreboding ancient castles, it’s a land of endless natural and man-made treasures waiting to be discovered. Uncover the secrets of centuries past as you take in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and St. Andrews, where golf originated. Along the way, embrace the heart of Scottish culture and its long-standing passion for festivals, bagpipes, history, and more. Scotland is a heart-pounding, awe-inspiring country unlike any other. The terrain, towns, castles, and cathedrals evoke mythic imagery of ancient deities, Lord of the Rings, fairy tales, and folklore. Expect vistas, views that take your breath away, and endless skies embracing emerald moors. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about Guided Vacations to learn more.