Discover Edinburgh & The Isle of Skye

Escorted Tours

Begin in Edinburgh, exploring landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and historic Holyrood Palace.
Journey north past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument en route to the Isle of Skye.
Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle before arriving in colourful Portree, Skye’s lively capital.
Discover Skye’s dramatic landscapes, from the Old Man of Storr to windswept Neist Point and Dunvegan Castle.
Return via Loch Ness and Perthshire’s charming villages before ending your adventure back in Edinburgh.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,291 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,291 Reviews

Trip Features

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Edinburgh & Secrets of Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Walking Tour

DAY

A Visit to Edinburgh Castle & The Scotch Whisky Experience - Gold Whisky Tour

DAY

Edinburgh to Skye and Portree

DAY

Exploring Skye to Portree

DAY

Explore Eilean Donan Castle, Fort Augustus, Perthshire and returns to Edinburgh

DAY

(Private) Half-Day Edinburgh Tour with Lunch

DAY

Depart from Edinburgh

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Edinburgh & Secrets of Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Walking Tour

Transfer

Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh - City Centre

Your Accommodation

Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket

This modern hotel is a 4-minute walk from the EICC (Edinburgh International Conference Centre) and a 5-minute walk from Edinburgh Haymarket train station. Relaxed rooms feature free Wi-Fi, pillow-top mattresses, and en suite bathrooms with showers, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities, TVs, and desks. Family rooms add sofabeds. Kids aged 15 and under eat and stay free with paying adults. There's a casual restaurant/bar offering classic pub fare and a full English breakfast. Parking is available for a fee.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Day Tour

Secrets of Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - Walking Tour

Book this tour if you’d like… - A unique journey round the sites, stories and secrets of the Old Town you might otherwise miss - A tour led and loved by Mercat historians - A wonderful introduction to Edinburgh, it’s past and people - A guided visit to Edinburgh Castle Our beautiful city is waiting for you… This walking tour is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s capital. The first secret you’ll learn? That you can skip the line at Edinburgh Castle! Discover an Edinburgh beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. A beautiful city steeped in awe-inspiring history that has been perfectly preserved to this day, in the wynds, closes, courtyards and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Take a journey through time with them, and explore the lives of Edinburgh residents from generations past and gone – from historical figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, to the everyday folk who never left the city’s walls their entire lives. Hang on your tour Storyteller’s every word, as they walk you through the crime and culture to the politics and everyday events, and show you the evidence that has survived to this day, throughout the Royal Mile. Want to visit Edinburgh Castle? Skip the line with Mercat Tours. The castle towers over Edinburgh from up high on its great ancient rock – a literal fortress, looking out over the city’s stunning landscapes. Battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it. Visit Edinburgh Castle with your Mercat Tours Storyteller, and from the Royal Mile you’ll walk straight over the drawbridge, and straight past the ticket line – to continue your journey into Edinburgh’s history uninterrupted.

Show on Map

DAY

A Visit to Edinburgh Castle & The Scotch Whisky Experience - Gold Whisky Tour

Admission

Edinburgh Castle Entrance Ticket

Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress offering breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can explore the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel - the castle’s oldest surviving building. The Great Hall, the Half Moon Battery, and the National War Museum provide insight into Scotland’s rich history. Don’t miss the famous One O’Clock Gun, fired daily except Sundays.

Admission

The Scotch Whisky Experience - Gold Whisky Tour

Get a real taste for Scotch whiskies. Includes all elements of their Silver Tour. Discover the origins of Scotch and magic of maturation, seen like never before, from inside the cask itself! Enjoy a sensory journey across Scotland's five whisky producing regions, hosted by their inspirational Guides. Delve into the history and alchemy of creating the perfect blend and discover each region’s unique aromas and flavours. Explore the glass vault of our world-famous Scotch whisky collection Savour a dram of single malt or blended Scotch whisky - you choose! (soft drink option) Take home a souvenir crystal tasting glass Tutored nosing and tasting of 4 contrasting regional single malts. One-year membership of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society, with discounts in their award-winning Amber Restaurant, specialist whisky bar and shop.

DAY

Edinburgh to Skye and Portree

Multi Day Tour

Edinburgh to Skye - Portree

You depart from Edinburgh and head west, embarking on a journey that is a dream for history lovers. As you make your way through the Lowlands, you pass the majestic Stirling Castle and Doune Castle, renowned for its distinctive architecture and appearances in films and television shows. After crossing the ancient geological fault line that runs through Scotland, you enter Trossachs National Park, in the majestic Highlands. The flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands give way to rugged mountain peaks and forest-filled glens. A quick break by a shimmering loch or in a charming Highland village refreshes you for the next leg of your journey. As you continue north, you'll encounter the wild and desolate landscapes of the Black Mount and Rannoch Moor before arriving at Glencoe, one of Scotland's most famous natural landmarks. Renowned for its dramatic, rugged slopes, this breathtaking area has been featured in numerous films and is steeped in history. You'll have time for photo stops or a short walk to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. Next, you'll visit Fort William, a charming Highland town nestled at the foot of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. You've got time for lunch and exploration, so you can decide what you want to do. Sample local cuisine, wander the streets of the town centre, or visit a local museum to learn more about the area's rich history. Continuing along the Great Glen, you'll pass the iconic, rugged mountains of the Five Sisters of Kintail and the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, with opportunities for photo stops and short breaks along the way. As you cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland's most mesmerizing islands, you'll follow the dramatic coastline, stopping at iconic viewpoints to admire the stunning outlines of the Red and Black Cuillins. From there, you'll continue toward the island's capital, Portree, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to venture out and explore the charming town. Overnight in Portree.

Your Accommodation

B & B with Ensuite Portree

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Show on Map

DAY

Exploring Skye to Portree

Multi Day Tour

Exploring Skye - Portree

Every horizon in Skye conceals something astoundingly beautiful. So today, your driver-guide makes the most out of your time and weather in this marvel-studded landscape. Exploring Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you'll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness. After all this exploration, you'll pause in one of the island's towns for lunch to recharge for the second part of the day. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide may take you back in time, sharing stories about the legends and clan culture surrounding Dunvegan Castle, the 13th-century ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod. You'll return to Portree in the evening, giving you the freedom to decide how to spend your time. Will you have dinner and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbour? Or will you seek out pubs and venues hosting traditional Scottish music sessions? The choice is yours. Overnight in Portree.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

B & B with Ensuite Portree

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Show on Map

DAY

Explore Eilean Donan Castle, Fort Augustus, Perthshire and returns to Edinburgh

Your Accommodation

Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Multi Day Tour

Eilean Donan Castle, Fort Augustus & Perthshire

You travel south, passing the Cuillin Hills and Sligachan Bridge, before returning to the mainland for a closer look at Eilean Donan Castle. Perched on a small island, this iconic castle, which has recently gained fame as a movie location, has many old stories to tell. You can enjoy refreshments at a local cafe and stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, you can explore its chambers, where you'll discover a collection of artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans. You travel past shimmering lochs framed by the rugged mountains of the Five Sisters of Kintail. After this visual feast of towering peaks, you arrive in the charming village of Fort Augustus, nestled along the banks of Loch Ness. Stop for lunch in Fort Augustus, giving you the freedom to decide how to spend your time. You can stroll along the Caledonian Canal and watch the boats navigate its locks, enjoy Scottish specialties in one of the cozy cafes or restaurants, or wander to the banks of the legendary loch in hopes of catching a glimpse of the elusive monster. Your journey south is filled with classic Highland scenery. As you travel past the broad peaks of Cairngorms National Park, you'll enjoy various photo stops along the way. Gradually, the dramatic mountains soften and become cloaked in lush forest. Among the towering trees of Perthshire, you'll take a final refreshment break in Pitlochry. You continue south through the rolling hills and fertile farmlands of the Kingdom of Fife. Your last highlight is the view of the iconic UNESCO-listed Forth Rail Bridge on your way to Edinburgh. You return to Edinburgh at approximately 7:00pm

Meal

Breakfast

Show on Map

DAY

(Private) Half-Day Edinburgh Tour with Lunch

Day Tour

Half-Day Edinburgh Tour with Lunch

Edinburgh is an incredibly historic city, and you will have an exciting and unique experience while in town. Appreciating that you may be short on time to see and do everything Edinburgh has to offer, this Mini Mack adventure visits a host of notable UNESCO sites and hidden gems while you snap away on your cameras and phones. Led by one of two local brothers, Rowan and Andy Mackie, you will have the opportunity to see and do more than what is listed in guide books. While Rowan and Andy may not be licensed historians, their local knowledge of Edinburgh and inside scoops on what's fun and interesting to do in the city is second-to-none, making for the perfect day out. After discovering a range of Edinburgh's top highlights including Calton Hill and Arthurs Seat - among many others - you will then settle in for a tasty meal in a charming local pub that features fresh, locally-sourced cuisine before being returned to your hotel. The perfect half-day sightseeing experience in Edinburgh, an additional treat is that your transportation between sites is in a well-maintained and comfortable Mini Cooper.

Your Accommodation

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

Be a guest and relax in their stylish city-center Edinburgh hotel. You’ll find the hotel on Jeffrey Street in the city’s Old Town, close to Waverley Train Station. They are a short stroll away from the capital’s landmarks including Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Park and many other local hotspots.

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

Show on Map

DAY

Depart from Edinburgh

Transfer

Edinburgh - City Centre to Edinburgh Airport

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Isle of Skye

Edinburgh's Royal Mile

The Cuillin Mountains at Sligachan

The Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

EdinburghPartly Cloudy

17°C / 63°F

55mm / 2.2"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,291 Reviews

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My husband and I booked a tour to Portugal using Goway travel. Working with Phoebe was a pleasure. She responded promptly and professionally to all of my requests, concerns and queries. Our trip was filled with lovely details and unexpected treasures.Kristen Remsen

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My trip to China was a wonderful experience, and everything was planned very well. The itinerary was well organized by Ms. Harpreet Litt. The arrangements were smooth, and the overall trip was enjoyable. I appreciated the attention to detail and the excellent coordination throughout the journey. It was a memorable experience, and I would highly recommend this trip to anyone planning to visit China!edyta

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Harpreet Litt provided us with a rich experience for our week. She offered good choices for local tour companies. We had a very good guide in Osaka. She is an Osaka resident with good English skills. She took extra pains to include opportunities we requested Osaka was a beautiful city at night. My photos of restaurants and street food were colorful and fun. Food was good too.Noel Chrisman

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I had a fantastic experience working with Lisa D. on the Goway team. She was helpful, attentive and made sure we were comfortable with our bookings and itinerary before departure, and also checked in with us following our trip. Would definitely book with Goway again!Mandi S.

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1186952 trip reference - Croatia and Montenegro. Dear Goway Travel Team! I wanted to reach out and share some well-deserved praise for Jacqueline, who has assisted me closely with several of my travels. She recently curated a trip for me to Croatia, the beautiful islands, and Montenegro, and it was an absolute home run. Jacqueline has an incredible ability to listen to her clients' needs and translate them perfectly into a flawless itinerary. Her articulation, guideline execution, and professionalism are unmatched. What sets her apart is her forward-thinking approach—she always knows the exact hotspots and trends, ensuring the pace of the trip matches my speed perfectly. Everything transitioned seamlessly thanks to her attention to detail and care. She is a massive asset to your organization, and her consideration makes every vacation stress-free. I will absolutely continue to use her for all my future travels. Kindest regards, Vince Sacco Vince Sacco

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Absolutely incredible trip! From beginning to end! All accommodations were excellent. If you want to experience Safaris this trip will fulfill all your expectations! A special thanks to our driver we had for our entire trip Evans! He made our trip over the top! The Hot air balloon ride in the Masai Mara is a must…it’s breathtaking!Pam Seitz

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I have worked with Goway several times in the past two years and every single trip has been unforgettable. Specifically, our travel advisor, Maria, has helped us book phenomenal trips to Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, and most recently, Iceland. Maria is so wonderful and easy to talk to, but what really stands out is her ability to get to know her clients so she can plan trips that perfectly align with our interests and desires. I cannot recommend her strongly enough! Her expertise, hard-work, and dedication towards each trip has given myself, my family, and friends memories to last a lifetime! Kayla Covello

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Jamil made our 40th birthday trip to Portugal so so very amazing and special! Great service, fabulous hotels, and wonderful day trips! Lane Strickland

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Katie was great, planned everything we needed, was great with changes and trip schedule conflicts. Fantastic working with her.CT

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I have been booking with GoWay for more than 2 years and feel so fortunate to have the best Travel Advisor, Maria Spitman, making our vacations unforgettable. I can’t say enough about Maria… she is personable, efficient, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable about her specialty destinations. We have booked many trips with her, including Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Iceland, and our most recent trip in Greece. Maria has not only curated nuanced itineraries, but has done so combining her vast knowledge of each region with our interests and needs being met perfectly. With that, it is evident that Maria learns about her clients to create vacation packages that far exceed expectations. I won’t book with anyone else! GoWay has a gem that is irreplaceable! I highly recommend seeking Maria out for all your destination needs. Darleen

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What do the experts say?

Rebeka Cameron

Team Lead

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For somewhere a little lesser known, make sure to visit Dunfermline, the old capital of Scotland. Rich in history, it’s home to the impressive Dunfermline Abbey where many Scottish kings and queens are buried, including Robert the Bruce.

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Rebeka Cameron

Team Lead

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Many tourists don’t realize how diverse Scotland’s regions are, each area has its own distinct culture, accents, and traditions. For example, the Outer Hebrides have a strong Gaelic heritage that’s still thriving.. Also, Scotland has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Europe, especially on the west coast and islands.

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Danette Jeoffroy

Destination Specialist

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Scotland hosts two amazing events - Edinburgh Tattoo in August, and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). Edinburgh hosts one of the world’s biggest and most iconic New Year’s celebrations!

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Danette Jeoffroy

Destination Specialist

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The best times to visit Scotland are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are especially beautiful

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