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Scotland: Highlands and Islands

From $6,196
total price from Boston, New York
$5,495 air & land inclusive plus $701 airline taxes and fees
Tour Days
12 days
Tour Membership
12-24 guests

Physical Activity Level:

Overview

“My heart’s in the Highlands,” said the poet Robert Burns – as will you, as we travel from city to country and mainland to island on this sweet journey. From loch to loch and glen to glen, we encounter stunning natural beauty and welcoming clans, while city life serves up the colorful past – and cosmopolitan present.

Tour Details

Scotland: Highlands and Islands

From $6,196

total price from Boston, New York
$5,495 air & land inclusive plus $701 airline taxes and fees

Tour Days
12 days

Tour Membership
12-24 guests

Physical Activity Level:

Tour Days
12 days

Tour Membership
12-24 guests

Physical Activity Level:

Overview

“My heart’s in the Highlands,” said the poet Robert Burns – as will you, as we travel from city to country and mainland to island on this sweet journey. From loch to loch and glen to glen, we encounter stunning natural beauty and welcoming clans, while city life serves up the colorful past – and cosmopolitan present.

Small Group Highlights

  • Well-paced journey through Scotland
  • Glasgow touring
  • Glasgow’s unique architecture
  • Beautiful Scottish Highlands scenery, including Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Glencoe, Loch Ness
  • Evocative ruins of Urquhart Castle
  • Isle of Skye excursion
  • Historic Culloden Moor
  • Medieval St. Andrews
  • Edinburgh touring, including Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood
  • Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (select departures only)
  • Pleasing mix of guided touring and time for independent exploration

Day-by-Day Itinerary

B
= Breakfast Included
L
= Lunch Included
D
= Dinner Included
1
Depart U.S. for Edinburgh, Scotland
Depart U.S. for Edinburgh, Scotland
2
Arrive Edinburgh/Glasgow
D
D
Arrive Edinburgh/Glasgow

We arrive today in Edinburgh and transfer by coach to Glasgow, where we check in at our hotel. As guests’ arrival times may vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. Late this afternoon we gather with our Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director for a briefing on the journey ahead. Then we enjoy a welcome dinner at either the acclaimed National Piping Centre or the well-appointed Corinthian Club.

We arrive today in Edinburgh and transfer by coach to Glasgow, where we check in at our hotel. As guests’ arrival times may vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. Late this afternoon we gather with our Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director for a briefing on the journey ahead. Then we enjoy a welcome dinner at either the acclaimed National Piping Centre or the well-appointed Corinthian Club.

3
Glasgow
B
L
B
L
Glasgow

This morning’s tour highlights “Glasgow Style,” the city’s distinct architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Though Glasgow has a rich medieval history, very few structures from that time survive; it is the Victorian-era buildings of red or blond sandstone with long lines that define the city’s historic built environment. Among the standout buildings we see: Glasgow Central Station, the Royal Exchange, and Glasgow City Chambers. We also visit Sir John W. Simpson’s immensely popular Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, housing an excellent collection of arms and armaments, and European artwork, including Salvador Dali's Christ of St. John of the Cross. Following our city tour, we visit The Burrell Collection, Glasgow’s world-class collection of art featuring medieval artifacts, Chinese art, priceless tapestries, and paintings by Manet, Cézanne, and Degas. After lunch at a local restaurant, the remainder of the day is at leisure.

This morning’s tour highlights “Glasgow Style,” the city’s distinct architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Though Glasgow has a rich medieval history, very few structures from that time survive; it is the Victorian-era buildings of red or blond sandstone with long lines that define the city’s historic built environment. Among the standout buildings we see: Glasgow Central Station, the Royal Exchange, and Glasgow City Chambers. We also visit Sir John W. Simpson’s immensely popular Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, housing an excellent collection of arms and armaments, and European artwork, including Salvador Dali's Christ of St. John of the Cross. Following our city tour, we visit The Burrell Collection, Glasgow’s world-class collection of art featuring medieval artifacts, Chinese art, priceless tapestries, and paintings by Manet, Cézanne, and Degas. After lunch at a local restaurant, the remainder of the day is at leisure.

4
Glasgow/Loch Lomond/Glencoe/Fort William
B
D
B
D
Glasgow/Loch Lomond/Glencoe/Fort William

We leave Glasgow this morning by motorcoach, bound for the scenic Highlands, Scotland’s sparsely populated historic northern region. We stop by the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Great Britain’s largest lake and part of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. We tour the island-dotted loch by coach before continuing on to Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most beautiful spots with deep valleys flanked by steep-sided mountains, rushing rivers, and dramatic waterfalls. Then we travel on to Fort William, the Highlands’ second largest settlement, arriving late this afternoon.

We leave Glasgow this morning by motorcoach, bound for the scenic Highlands, Scotland’s sparsely populated historic northern region. We stop by the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Great Britain’s largest lake and part of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. We tour the island-dotted loch by coach before continuing on to Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most beautiful spots with deep valleys flanked by steep-sided mountains, rushing rivers, and dramatic waterfalls. Then we travel on to Fort William, the Highlands’ second largest settlement, arriving late this afternoon.

5
Fort William/Isle of Skye
B
L
D
B
L
D
Fort William/Isle of Skye

We embark on a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye, the largest of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, known for its vivid history, strong Gaelic influence, and stunning scenery. En route, we make a photo stop at Glenfinnan Monument, honoring “Bonnie Prince Charlie” for his leadership in the Jacobite Rising of 1745. Then we board a ferry for Armadale on the southern tip of Isle of Skye. Our touring begins with a visit to Armadale Castle and Gardens, where we have lunch. Next we set out on a scenic drive through the imposing Cuillin Hills (or “Black Cuillin”). Returning to the mainland via the Skye Bridge, we stop to visit iconic Eilean Donan Castle then dine tonight at our hotel.

We embark on a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye, the largest of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, known for its vivid history, strong Gaelic influence, and stunning scenery. En route, we make a photo stop at Glenfinnan Monument, honoring “Bonnie Prince Charlie” for his leadership in the Jacobite Rising of 1745. Then we board a ferry for Armadale on the southern tip of Isle of Skye. Our touring begins with a visit to Armadale Castle and Gardens, where we have lunch. Next we set out on a scenic drive through the imposing Cuillin Hills (or “Black Cuillin”). Returning to the mainland via the Skye Bridge, we stop to visit iconic Eilean Donan Castle then dine tonight at our hotel.

6
Fort William/Loch Ness/Inverness
B
D
B
D
Fort William/Loch Ness/Inverness

We depart today for the Northern Highlands, stopping en route at fabled Loch Ness. We enjoy a boat ride on the 23- mile-long lake best known for the unearthly creature alleged to live in its deep waters. We also visit the ruins of lakeside Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most popular attractions. Dating to at least the 13th century, the castle sits surrounded by water on three sides, giving it a once-formidable advantage in battle. Then we travel on to the historic Culloden Moor battle site. After time on our own to tour the museum here, we tour the hallowed grounds, site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising in 1746. Early this evening we arrive in Inverness on Scotland’s northeast coast and cultural capital of the Highlands. We dine tonight at our hotel.

We depart today for the Northern Highlands, stopping en route at fabled Loch Ness. We enjoy a boat ride on the 23- mile-long lake best known for the unearthly creature alleged to live in its deep waters. We also visit the ruins of lakeside Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most popular attractions. Dating to at least the 13th century, the castle sits surrounded by water on three sides, giving it a once-formidable advantage in battle. Then we travel on to the historic Culloden Moor battle site. After time on our own to tour the museum here, we tour the hallowed grounds, site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising in 1746. Early this evening we arrive in Inverness on Scotland’s northeast coast and cultural capital of the Highlands. We dine tonight at our hotel.

7
Inverness/Highlands
B
D
B
D
Inverness/Highlands

Our exploration of the High­lands continues on today’s excursion along the Pictish Trail, sites connected with the late Iron Age/early Medieval Celtic people who once lived here. We visit striking Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, where we see a falconry demonstration then embark on a tour and tasting at a small local distillery that has been producing hand-crafted single malt whisky for generations. We continue our drive along the scenic coastal road flanked by small farms with sheep, cows, and Shetland ponies before returning to our hotel, where we enjoy dinner together tonight.

Our exploration of the High­lands continues on today’s excursion along the Pictish Trail, sites connected with the late Iron Age/early Medieval Celtic people who once lived here. We visit striking Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, where we see a falconry demonstration then embark on a tour and tasting at a small local distillery that has been producing hand-crafted single malt whisky for generations. We continue our drive along the scenic coastal road flanked by small farms with sheep, cows, and Shetland ponies before returning to our hotel, where we enjoy dinner together tonight.

8
Inverness/Kincraig/Pitlochry/St. Andrews
B
D
B
D
Inverness/Kincraig/Pitlochry/St. Andrews

Today’s first stop is Kincraig, where we watch a sheepdog demonstration with working border collies, known for their herding abilities. We travel on to the holiday town of Pitlochry in the heart of Scotland, where we enjoy some free time before continuing on to legendary St. Andrews late this afternoon. Tonight we have dinner together at our hotel.

Today’s first stop is Kincraig, where we watch a sheepdog demonstration with working border collies, known for their herding abilities. We travel on to the holiday town of Pitlochry in the heart of Scotland, where we enjoy some free time before continuing on to legendary St. Andrews late this afternoon. Tonight we have dinner together at our hotel.

9
St. Andrews/Edinburgh
B
B
St. Andrews/Edinburgh

Home of Scotland’s oldest university (St. Andrews) and renowned as the home of golf, where the game has been played for some 600 years, delightful – and compact – St. Andrews measures just one mile across. This morning we embark on a walking tour of the medieval seaside town, followed by free time to explore with lunch on our own. Later this afternoon we continue on our way to Edinburgh. Dinner tonight is on our own in the Scottish capital, which boasts a robust culinary scene.

Home of Scotland’s oldest university (St. Andrews) and renowned as the home of golf, where the game has been played for some 600 years, delightful – and compact – St. Andrews measures just one mile across. This morning we embark on a walking tour of the medieval seaside town, followed by free time to explore with lunch on our own. Later this afternoon we continue on our way to Edinburgh. Dinner tonight is on our own in the Scottish capital, which boasts a robust culinary scene.

10
Edinburgh
B
B
Edinburgh

Our morning tour of this stately city built on seven hills features both the 18th-century Georgian “New Town” and the medieval “Old Town” – together, the districts form a UNESCO site. In the Old Town, we pay an inside visit to Edinburgh Castle, symbolic heart of the country. We also travel the Royal Mile, the warren of medieval streets that form the thoroughfare stretching from the castle to Holyrood Palace, official residence of the Royal Family when in Scotland. This afternoon is at leisure to discover Edinburgh as we wish; museums, galleries, and shops abound. Guests on select July and August departures will enjoy an evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Our morning tour of this stately city built on seven hills features both the 18th-century Georgian “New Town” and the medieval “Old Town” – together, the districts form a UNESCO site. In the Old Town, we pay an inside visit to Edinburgh Castle, symbolic heart of the country. We also travel the Royal Mile, the warren of medieval streets that form the thoroughfare stretching from the castle to Holyrood Palace, official residence of the Royal Family when in Scotland. This afternoon is at leisure to discover Edinburgh as we wish; museums, galleries, and shops abound. Guests on select July and August departures will enjoy an evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

11
Edinburgh
B
D
B
D
Edinburgh

This morning we again encounter the Royal Mile, with its mix of attractions, shops, and restaurants. We tour Holyrood, as it is called, and see where British royalty schemed and slept as we tour the State Apartments. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Tonight we celebrate our Scotland sojourn over a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we again encounter the Royal Mile, with its mix of attractions, shops, and restaurants. We tour Holyrood, as it is called, and see where British royalty schemed and slept as we tour the State Apartments. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Tonight we celebrate our Scotland sojourn over a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

12
Depart for U.S.
B
B
Depart for U.S.

We transfer this morning to the Edinburgh airport for our return flights to the U.S.

We transfer this morning to the Edinburgh airport for our return flights to the U.S.

Special Event
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Departures
Jul 26, 2025
Jul 31, 2025
Aug 2, 2025
Aug 7, 2025
Aug 11, 2025
Aug 14, 2025

Includes reserved seating at an evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Tour Price Includes

  • Round-trip air transportation from listed cities
  • 10 nights’ accommodations in Deluxe, Superior First Class, First Class, and unrated hotels
  • 19 meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
  • Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
  • Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
  • Luggage handling for one bag per person
  • Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
  • $100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after 3 tours; $300 after 10 tours)

Average Daily High by Month (°F )

  May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Glasgow 56 60 63 62 59
Fort William 54 57 60 59 55
Edinburgh 57 63 65 65 61

Average Temperature (°F )

  May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Glasgow 56 60 63 62 59
Fort William 54 57 60 59 55
Edinburgh 57 63 65 65 61

Dates & Prices

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Tour Directors

Marina Scott

“Marina was absolutely marvelous. Her knowledge was only surpassed by her kindness and sense of humor. She is the best!”

Ann Raff
Coral Gables, FL

Michael Turpie

“His knowledge and passion for Scotland were evident in all aspects. His kindness in making sure that everyone was enjoying themselves was apparent every day…This man is a GEM!”

Kathryn Sands
Virginia Beach, VA

Jodie Stalker

"Beyond excellent! Just a perfect blend of history, personality, and humor."

James Houfek
Columbus, OH

Andy Plews

"Andy was a wealth of knowledge and shared it with humor. Very easy to get along with. Made our tour a very special experience."

Harold & Elizabeth Shoemaker
Colorado Springs, CO

Barbara McLean

“Barbara McLean is phenomenal…She is thoughtful, brilliant and passionate…an absolute treasure.”

Michele Williams
Coeur d’Alene, ID

Joan Dobbie

"Joan was one of the best if not THE BEST tour director we've had!"

Kenneth Anderson & Karin Knutsen
Chagrin Falls, OH

Andrew Sandilands

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

Miles Forde

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

Tour Directors

Michael Turpie

“His knowledge and passion for Scotland were evident in all aspects. His kindness in making sure that everyone was enjoying themselves was apparent every day…This man is a GEM!”

Kathryn Sands
Virginia Beach, VA

Marina Scott

“Marina was absolutely marvelous. Her knowledge was only surpassed by her kindness and sense of humor. She is the best!”

Ann Raff
Coral Gables, FL

Andy Plews

"Andy was a wealth of knowledge and shared it with humor. Very easy to get along with. Made our tour a very special experience."

Harold & Elizabeth Shoemaker
Colorado Springs, CO

Jodie Stalker

"Beyond excellent! Just a perfect blend of history, personality, and humor."

James Houfek
Columbus, OH

Andrew Sandilands

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

Barbara McLean

“Barbara McLean is phenomenal…She is thoughtful, brilliant and passionate…an absolute treasure.”

Michele Williams
Coeur d’Alene, ID

Joan Dobbie

"Joan was one of the best if not THE BEST tour director we've had!"

Kenneth Anderson & Karin Knutsen
Chagrin Falls, OH

Miles Forde

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

Destination Insights

Exploring...

Recommended Books & Films

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Guest Photos & Testimonials

Extremely well organized, comfortable accommodations, reliable transportation, with ample rest stops, diversity of sights, and excellent tour guide. [She] provided the right mix of Scottish flare and knowledge.
Dr. Jeffrey Greene
New York, NY
You took care of all the details so that we could just relax, enjoy the trip, and really live in the moment and savor the experience.
Jeffrey & Linda Laben
Bluffton, SC
I think Odysseys is a best buy. I am thoroughly impressed with the organization of the tours, and I have met wonderful fellow travelers!
Veronica Worman
Stockholm, NJ
Extremely well organized, comfortable accommodations, reliable transportation, with ample rest stops, diversity of sights, and excellent tour guide. [She] provided the right mix of Scottish flare and knowledge.
Dr. Jeffrey Greene
New York, NY
You took care of all the details so that we could just relax, enjoy the trip, and really live in the moment and savor the experience.
Jeffrey & Linda Laben
Bluffton, SC
I think Odysseys is a best buy. I am thoroughly impressed with the organization of the tours, and I have met wonderful fellow travelers!
Veronica Worman
Stockholm, NJ
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET

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