3-Day Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-day itineraries

Compiled by

Melissa3 day travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Days in Scottish Highlands, incl. Isle of Skye and Loch Ness

  Highland adventures await across 15 destinations in 3 days. Day 1 covers the journey to Skye via Glenfinnan, Day 2 explores the isle's dramatic landscapes, and Day 3 returns via Glen Coe and Doune Castle, with 2 nights in scenic hostels.

  

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  • Day 1

    Edinburgh to Isle of Skye

    Leave Edinburgh early and head north across the Highland Divide. "The morning drive sets the mood with Scottish music and folklore stories," according to one traveler. Your first stop is The Hermitage for a woodland walk. Pack sturdy shoes since the paths can get slippery in wet weather. Next up is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you might recognize from the Harry Potter films. A recent visitor suggests: "Time your visit around 3:00 PM to see the Jacobite Steam Train cross the viaduct. Get there 30 minutes early for the best viewing spot on the hill." Take the scenic "Road to the Isles" to Mallaig and catch the ferry to Isle of Skye. The 45-minute crossing offers great views but pack a warm layer. You'll spend the night in Kyleakin village. "The hostel in Kyleakin felt like staying at a cozy holiday house with new friends. The kitchen facilities were perfect for cooking dinner on a budget," shared one traveler.

    
  • Day 2

    Isle of Skye to Loch Ness

    Start your morning exploring Skye's Trotternish Peninsula. Begin with the Old Man of Storr hike. "Go early before tour buses arrive, and allow 2-3 hours for the full circuit. The path gets very muddy, so proper hiking boots are essential," a reviewer suggests. Visit Kilt Rock and the Quiraing landslip before stopping in Portree for lunch. After lunch, make your way to Loch Ness where you'll stay right on the shores. One traveler shares: "Swimming in Loch Ness at sunset was a highlight - cold but unforgettable. Bring a quick-dry towel and change of clothes if you plan to take a dip."

    
  • Day 3

    Loch Ness to Edinburgh

    Start at Fort Augustus with views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest peak. The real standout is Glen Coe. Plan for a 1-hour hike here. "The Three Sisters viewpoint in Glen Coe offers the most dramatic mountain scenery. Even in summer, bring a rainproof layer as weather changes quickly," notes one visitor. Pass through Rannoch Moor and stop at Doune Castle before returning to Edinburgh in early evening. The route covers about 500 miles but as one traveler puts it: "The driving times never felt too long because every turn revealed another stunning view."

    

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• 3 Days in Scottish Highlands, incl. Edinburgh and Isle of Skye

  A dynamic 3-day route maximizes time with 36 hours on Skye, two nights in Kyleakin, and scenic drives through the Highlands. Day 1 focuses on reaching Skye, day 2 explores the island's highlights, and day 3 returns via Glencoe and historic battlefields, covering over 15 key locations.

  

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  • Day 1

    Edinburgh to Kyleakin

    Leave Edinburgh early to make the most of daylight, especially during shorter winter days. Drive north through Pitlochry and Dunkeld, stopping at the Highland Folk Museum mid-morning. A traveler's note captures the journey perfectly: "Even the drive itself is spectacular - about an hour after Edinburgh, you'll find yourself constantly reaching for your camera as the landscape transforms." Visit Culloden Battlefield in the early afternoon before heading to Loch Ness for an optional swim. If you plan to take a dip, bring warm clothes to change into. The water stays cold year-round. Finish your day with a drive through Glen Shiel to see Eilean Donan Castle before reaching your hostel in Kyleakin on Skye. Your accommodation sits by the water and offers welcoming common spaces for evening socializing.

    
  • Day 2

    Isle of Skye Exploration

    Spend the full day discovering Skye's best spots. Start with the Old Man of Storr hike early at 9am to avoid crowds. A recent visitor shares: "The Storr hike is moderately difficult and extremely worth it. Wear proper hiking boots as the trail gets very muddy and slippery, especially after rain." Visit Kilt Rock and the Quiraing next. Later, head to the Fairy Pools. Pack swimwear if you want to try the crystal clear but very cold waters. Spend your evening in Portree, where you can find fresh seafood by the harbor. Save money by using the hostel kitchen to cook with your group.

    
  • Day 3

    Skye to Edinburgh

    Start your return trip through Glencoe, listening to stories about the MacDonald clan massacre. Stop for lunch in Fort William near Ben Nevis. A helpful tip from a traveler: "The Fish & Chips shop by the train station is excellent, but gets very busy around 1pm." Drive across Rannoch Moor in the afternoon and stop at either Doune Castle or the Wallace Monument. You'll get back to Edinburgh around 6-7pm, traffic permitting. One visitor suggests: "Sit on the right side of the bus leaving Glencoe for the best photo opportunities of the valley."

    

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• 3 Day Scottish Highlands Itinerary, incl. Edinburgh and Isle of Skye

  Scotland's finest unfolds over 3 days, with 2 nights in Highland hostels. Visit 12 destinations including Eilean Donan Castle, Glencoe, Isle of Skye, and Loch Ness. Tours run year-round with summer (Apr-Oct) and winter (Nov-Mar) itineraries tailored to seasonal conditions.

  

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  • Day 1

    Edinburgh to Portree

    Get to Edinburgh Bus Station early (check in at Gate J by 7:45 AM). Your route takes you past Stirling Castle and into the Highland village of Callander for a break. Watch the landscape change as you enter Rannoch Moor, Britain's last true wilderness. Stop at Glen Coe to learn about the historic 1692 massacre. Summer tours (April-October) include a ferry ride to Skye. Winter routes cross the Skye Bridge. As one traveler put it: "The ferry ride to Skye was magical - watching the mountains emerge from the mist is something I'll never forget." Your day ends in Portree with its colorful harbor and pastel buildings. Book dinner early since restaurants fill up fast in peak season.

    
  • Day 2

    Isle of Skye

    Visit landmarks like the Old Man of Storr and Cuillin Mountains. A recent visitor advises: "Bring proper hiking boots and waterproof layers - Skye's weather can change in minutes, and the paths get slippery when wet." Your guide will adjust plans based on weather. You can visit Dunvegan Castle ($28 entry) or join a local history walk. There's free time to browse Portree's shops and cafes. Many visitors love the nightlife: "The local music sessions at the Portree Hotel really made our trip - such a warm Highland welcome."

    
  • Day 3

    Return to Edinburgh

    Summer tours stop at Eilean Donan Castle (go early to avoid crowds) and the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre to learn about Scotland's ancient forests. Winter tours focus on Glen Coe and Fort William. Visit Fort Augustus by Loch Ness for lunch and canal walks. One traveler noted: "The small towns along the way were just as memorable as the big attractions - Fort Augustus was charming and less touristy than I expected." The trip ends with photos at the Forth Rail Bridge before arriving in Edinburgh around 8:30 PM. Book your accommodation for that night since it's too late for most flights.

    

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