Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh
Overview
Available languages
13 hours
Mobile ticket
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
Additional Info
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
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 £30 per adult and £21 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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local live driver guide who will share stories and history throughout the day
Panoramic windows
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
Entrance fees - Child, Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle Tour
What To Expect
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!
Cairngorms National Park
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.
Options
Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh
Reviews
2,716 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The tour delivers all...
Jaime R,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
4.00The tour delivers all what is promised. The guides (Terry and Alex) were amazing: knowledgeable, fun and kind. I’m rating 4 stars because the tour was not ideal for me, and I want to reiterate, we did all what was offered (except the visit to the castle, because it was closed when we were on our way to Loch Ness - although they opened later and our group couldn’t get tickets)… it was too much time in the bus, and limited time in the places visited. If you are looking for a quick intro to the Highlands, it’s a good tour. Next time I will do a 3 or 4 day tour.
Amazing day trip!
Kirra S,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had an incredible day with Alex and the Highland Experience tour crew! The entire trip was so well organized, with plenty of scenic stops throughout the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, and Glencoe. Alex was knowledgeable, entertaining, and made the long day fly by with his stories and insights. The views were absolutely breathtaking, and we never felt rushed. Highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to see the best of Scotland in one unforgettable day!
Bus ride to the Highlands
Karen L,
Oct 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00The bus ride is quite long but, there are several sites along the way, especially the cruise on Loch Ness. Our guide Terri & driver Alan were great! This tour is definitely not for those who get carsick. A lot of narrow and curvy roads.
Highlands with friends
Jolie H,
Oct 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Highlands were incredible! So beautiful! Loch Ness cruise and visit to Urquhart are very worth the extra money. Craig was new as a guide but still did a good job keeping us on track and informed.
Solo traveler looking to get out of city
Myra E,
Oct 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00I enjoyed a beautiful journey through the highlands of Scotland. Steven B was the name of my guide and he was both educational and humorous with the information he provided. There were many more stops and photo opportunities than I had expected, and plenty of bathroom breaks. From highlands cows, to a 15 minute optional hike from the bus, I saw everything I wanted to see for a taste of Scotland outside the city.
Related Experiences
Operated by Highland Experience Tours