Northern Scotland Tours & Trips
What if the Isle of Skye led you through places like the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock while local guides wove fascinating stories about clan histories and folklore? The Highlands open up plenty of active possibilities, from climbing peaks around Glen Coe or exploring historic Eilean Donan castle. Push further to the Outer Hebrides for Luskentyre beach's pure white sand and extraordinary 5,000-year-old Callanish Standing Stones rising from moorland.
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- Choose from 50+ Northern Scotland tours
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Nikita • traveled in October
This trip was a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend if you are coming to Scotland and want to check out the highlands! I say do the 5-7 night tours to really experience the highlander ways. Our guide, Richard, was one of the funniest/ knowledgeable guide I have met. He really takes pride in his job. 5 star tour company!
Isle Of Skye And The Highlands - B
Ben • traveled in May
My three-day tour of Skye with Owen was incredible. Entertaining, informative and, most importantly, fun. The places we visited were breathtaking and the scenery is like nothing else I've ever seen. This is a must do trip and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The BnB I stayed at was comfortable and friendly and the food was good! My only complaint was that there were no toilets on the bus but this wasn't a big deal as we stopped often. I suppose you can't really get the small bus experience on a coach with toilet facilities so it was a fair trade-off!
Skye & Inverness Adventure - Y
Ya-Jung • traveled in June
It’s totally different sightseeing from where I come from. Very interesting.
4-day Isle of Skye and The Jacobite Steam Train
Table of contents
- The best Northern Scotland tour packages
- Travel Northern Scotland your way
- Best tour companies for Northern Scotland tours
- Popular Northern Scotland Cruise Ships
- Northern Scotland tours for every type of group
- Top Northern Scotland travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Northern Scotland
- Contact our Northern Scotland travel experts
- What our customers ask about Northern Scotland Tours & Trips
The best Northern Scotland tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Scotland travel expert at TourRadar
4-day Isle of Skye and The Jacobite Steam Train
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We were impressed with how much we saw. The tour demonstrated great patience as a driver.”
Brian, traveled in July
The mystical Scottish Highlands unfold on this 4-day adventure from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye. Rolling through Loch Lomond National Park and Glen Coe, guests ride the iconic Jacobite Steam Train across Glenfinnan Viaduct. Charming B&Bs in Fort Augustus and Skye serve as bases to witness the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula and Kilt Rock. Perfect for couples and solo travelers, with daily Scottish breakfasts and expert guides rated 5.0/5.0.
Duration 4 days Destinations Edinburgh, Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, Eilean Donan, Isle of Skye, Armadale, Mallaig, Glenfinnan, Fort WilliamSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Highland Experience Tours From
- NZ$1,820
Skye & Inverness Adventure
50 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“fantastic trip. Ben was brilliant, knowledgeable, helpful and a very good driver.”
david, traveled in August
Inverness B&Bs provide comfort while visiting iconic Highland landmarks. The 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness cruises past Urquhart Castle ruins, and Culloden Battlefield tell their tales. Dramatic landscapes at Kilt Rock and Old Man of Storr complete the experience.
Duration 3 days Destinations Edinburgh, Glencoe, Fort William, Inverness, Eilean Donan, Portree, Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, CullodenSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Highland Experience Tours From
- NZ$922
4-Day Isle of Skye & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
101 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The sites are stunning and the small bus allowed us to see sites the big buses couldn't get to.”
Brenda, traveled in September
Northern Scotland's rugged beauty stretches from The Kelpies to Glencoe's historic valley. The route winds through Fort William and Kyle of Lochalsh, with stays in traditional B&Bs. Eilean Donan Castle and majestic Glenfinnan Viaduct inspire 50+ glowing reviews.
Duration 4 days Destinations Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan, Mallaig, Elgol, Kyle of Lochalsh, Isle of Skye, Kilt RockSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Rabbie's Tours From $1,597
15% Off- NZ$1,357You save $240
3-Day Orkney Explorer Small-Group Small-Group Tour from Inverness
31 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Extraordinary sights, history and scenery. Loved every minute.”
Helen, traveled in July
The Orkney Islands reveal their treasures, from the prehistoric village of Skara Brae to Kirkwall's magnificent Viking Cathedral. Cozy B&Bs host guests for 2 nights while they visit Dunrobin Castle, the Italian Chapel, and ancient standing stones of Stenness. Comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coaches transport visitors, with consistently high 4.9/5 guest ratings.
Duration 3 days Destinations Inverness, Dunrobin, John O'Groats, Orkney Islands, Kirkwall, Skara Brae, Stenness, St Margaret's Hope Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Rabbie's Tours From $1,223
15% Off- NZ$1,039You save $183
Best of Isle of Skye and the Highlands 5-Day Small Group Tour
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was phenomenal and we felt very lucky.”
Peter, traveled in September
Duration 5 days Destinations Edinburgh, Dunkeld, Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness, Ullapool, Achmelvich, Lochinver, Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, Torridon, ApplecrossSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Click Tours From $3,787
45% Off- NZ$2,083You save $1,704
Explore Northern Scotland's rugged coastline from Inverness to John O'Groats and back. Visit Dunrobin Castle, taste whisky at Glen Ord Distillery, and navigate the spectacular Bealach na Bà mountain pass. Includes traditional inn accommodation.
Duration 8 days Destinations Inverness, Dornoch, John O'Groats, Durness, Ullapool, Applecross Age Range Ages 17+ Operator Spirit Journeys Worldwide From
45% Off- NZ$3,454
Isle of Skye & The Outer Hebrides
36 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Had an amazing time. Great accommodation.”
Jennifer, traveled in July
Northern Scotland's hidden gems await from Inverness to the remote Outer Hebrides. The historic Corrieshalloch Gorge, Harris Distillery tours, and ancient Dun Carloway Broch captivate visitors. Local life flourishes in Stornoway B&Bs while dolphins play near scenic ferry crossings.
Duration 6 days Destinations Edinburgh, Stirling, Doune, Glencoe, Loch Ness, Inverness, Ullapool, Stornoway, Lewis, CallanishSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Highland Explorer Tours From
45% Off- NZ$2,829
Scottish Highlands From Edinburgh - 5 days
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accommodations in both Ullapool and Portree were wonderful. I would definitely recommend it.”
Sandy, traveled in May
Northern Scotland's finest sights include Loch Ness, Cairngorms National Park, and palm-lined shores of Plockton. Hiking The Quiraing on Skye, visiting historic Eilean Donan Castle, and learning the tragic history of Glencoe fill your days. Charming guesthouses provide comfort while traveling via air-conditioned mini-coach.
Duration 5 days Destinations Edinburgh, Dunkeld, Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness, Ullapool, Achmelvich, Lochinver, Applecross, Plockton, Isle of SkyeSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours From $2,990
35% Off- NZ$1,944You save $1,047
Scottish Islands Grand Tour - 14 days
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Beautiful vistas. Great drivers.”
Brenda, traveled in May
Northern Scotland's raw beauty extends from Ullapool to John o'Groats. Foinaven guesthouse provides comfortable lodging, while days are filled with visits to the Summer Isles and dramatic castles like Ardvreck. Traditional crofting towns and impressive mountain landscapes including Ben Loyal highlight the journey.
Duration 14 days Destinations Edinburgh, Oban, Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, Glencoe, Fort William, Plockton, Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, InvernessSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Operator On The Go Tours From $10,765
35% Off- NZ$6,997You save $3,768
Walk the North West Highlands and Skye
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing tour and Ken was a calm, knowledgeable guide. Would definitely recommend hiking in the highlands.”
Andrea, traveled in September
Northern Scotland's diverse landscapes cost approx. $420 per day, including 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners featuring local cuisine. The UNESCO Geopark's 3-billion-year-old Lewisian gneiss formations, Eilean Donan Castle, and pristine beaches around Gairloch await experienced hikers.
Duration 8 days Destinations Inverness, Ullapool, Gairloch, Isle of Skye, Loch Ness Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From
35% Off- NZ$6,240
Travel Northern Scotland your way
Best tour companies for Northern Scotland tours
Our travelers who've explored Scotland's most remote corners keep coming back with great feedback about these tour companies. Intrepid Travel really delivers on those Shetland Island trips - their guides know the islands inside out and mix up each day with local history, walks along the dramatic coastline and proper cultural experiences. You're not just seeing places; you're getting the full story of island life. Rabbies Tours has built quite a reputation on Skye and through the Highlands. They've found that sweet spot between covering the main sights and digging deeper into hidden spots. Their guides tell proper Highland tales, and they've picked some lovely places to stay overnight. If you're watching your budget, Haggis Adventures hits the mark. Their guides have this great way of turning Scottish history into entertaining stories, and they keep the atmosphere fun while showing you around. They're especially good with younger travelers, solo adventurers and anyone who likes to mix sightseeing with some good laughs. For something more upscale, Highland Experience Tours runs small group trips along the North Coast and Islands. They use comfortable vehicles, pick quality accommodations and their guides really know their history. You'll get all the famous spots but also those quiet moments in places most visitors miss - like sunrise at remote beaches or sunset visits to ancient stone circles.
Popular Northern Scotland Cruise Ships
Northern Scotland tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Northern Scotland travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers70 tours- Couples66 tours
- Seniors (50+)54 tours
Best time to visit Northern Scotland
- Spring 2026
Highland tours shine in spring with three excellent options that our regular travelers keep coming back to. The Isle of Skye experience combines photo stops at the Trotternish Peninsula, active walks in the Cuillin Hills, and the classic Jacobite Steam Train adds a dash of nostalgia to the experience. Guides adapt the routes to spring conditions, sharing local tales at places like Eilean Donan Castle. Shetland Island tours peak during springtime, where you'll walk coastal paths to spot puffins returning to Hermaness Nature Reserve, explore the ancient ruins of Jarlshof and also discover hidden prehistoric gems. The Northwest Highland walks offer plenty of variety this time of year - from challenging climbs up Cul Mor's sandstone peaks, to laid-back coastal strolls near Gairloch, where seals and dolphins often play in the waters. The intimate group sizes help visitors forge genuine connections with both the wild landscapes and local Highland communities they meet during their journey.
- 54 tours
- popular 63 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer brings out the best of our Northern Scotland tours, with the Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides drawing steady praise from our guests. The 4-day Skye experience combines scenic walks through the Cuillin Hills, explorations of the Trotternish Peninsula and immersive cultural encounters, while the Jacobite Steam Train adds a nostalgic touch as it crosses the renowned viaduct. Travelers tell us they value how we balance guided discoveries with free time around spots like Portree Harbor. Our 6-day Outer Hebrides journey delves into authentic island life, putting you face-to-face with Harris Tweed weavers and giving you time to wander the ancient Callanish stones in the extended summer light. The guides earn particular praise for weaving together tales of clan history, geological insights and local folklore as they navigate the summer roads. Both destinations take full advantage of the long daylight hours, letting our groups fit in extra walks, photo stops and spontaneous wildlife watching - from clifftop seabird colonies to pods of coastal dolphins.
- popular 66 tours
- 65 tours
- 65 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn brings rich colors to the Highlands, and our 6-day Outer Hebrides and Skye tours take full advantage. With fewer visitors around, the islands feel peaceful and authentic. You'll have space to explore the Callanish stones properly and catch local Harris Tweed weavers working in their homes. The 3-day Orkney Explorer works well in fall too - our guide Helen gets great feedback for making island history come alive while handling the autumn conditions. Our travelers love mixing cozy nights in Kirkwall's pubs with days out at places like Skara Brae. The North Coast route fits perfectly in fall, with visits to Dunrobin Castle and cultural evenings in Stornoway, where traditional Gaelic music feels right at home in the season.
- popular 67 tours
- 51 tours
Contact our Northern Scotland travel experts
Steffanie
Expert in Northern Scotland at TourRadar
Steffanie is one of our seasoned Northern Scotland Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Northern Scotland tours answered!
- Choose from 84+ Northern Scotland tours
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Northern Scotland Tours & Trips
I'm looking for off-the-beaten-path routes in Northern Scotland - what hidden gems should I check out?
The North Coast 500 is absolutely stunning it winds along the rugged northern coastline and takes you through these charming fishing villages and past dramatic cliffs. There's also amazing Neolithic sites on Orkney. Lots of our TourRadar guests love doing self-drive tours like the NC500 Road Trip because you can really take your time discover things spontaneously and get a real feel for local life. You'll get to stop at places like Glen Ord and Dunnet Bay distilleries where the whisky and gin tasting is definitely worth your while.
What are some incredible places worth visiting beyond Loch Ness and Skye that tourists might not know about?
The Assynt region is just breathtaking with its diverse plants and these incredible mountains shaped by ancient glaciers. Try hiking up Cul Mor for some amazing panoramic views or tackle Stac Pollaidh it's a pretty manageable climb with unforgettable views. The Isle of Iona is another special spot - it's actually the birthplace of Celtic Christianity and where Scottish kings were buried. You can explore Iona Abbey and really soak in the island's peaceful atmosphere on The Scottish Isles - Highlights of the Hebrides tour.
How should I get around Northern Scotland to really experience both the main spots and remote areas?
There's actually lots of great ways to explore. The ScotRail trains especially the West Highland Line give you these incredible views through the dramatic Highland landscapes. If you want total freedom grab a rental car - it's perfect for doing routes like the North Coast 500 at your own pace. Coach tours are brilliant too if you'd rather not drive they'll take you to multiple spots hassle-free like on the Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides tour. For a really rich experience mix it up - maybe take the ferry to Skye then hop on the Jacobite Steam Train (that's the actual Hogwarts Express!) on the 4-day Isle of Skye and Jacobite Steam Train tour.
How can visitors really experience authentic Scottish culture and where should they go for this?
You'll find genuine Scottish experiences all over the Highlands. Visit working distilleries like Glen Ord or Harris where you can see traditional whisky-making up close and sample some amazing spirits. Near Loch Lomond you can watch these incredible sheepdog demonstrations at family farms that'll show you real Scottish rural life. Head to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis for authentic Gaelic culture with traditional music and fascinating historical spots like the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village which shows you how island life was back in the 1600s. The locals are super welcoming in Highland villages you'll find traditional music in cozy pubs and plenty of chances to chat with residents. The 6-Day Outer Hebrides & Skye Adventure Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh lets you experience all this Gaelic culture firsthand including that visit to the Blackhouse Village.