Discover Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes on this unforgettable small group rail tour.
The Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands by Scenic Rail Tour is one of our most popular small group tours to Scotland. Travelers love the blend of historic cities, dramatic Highland scenery, and two of the most spectacular rail journeys in Europe.
In Edinburgh, enjoy a stay at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel, set in the shadow of the iconic Edinburgh Castle. In the Highlands, relax at the elegant 4-star Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, located along the picturesque River Ness. Every morning begins with a bountiful Scottish breakfast before embarking on guided adventures.
Explore Scotland’s capital with our professional guided walking tours. Your trip includes VIP admission to the city’s top attractions:
Edinburgh Castle
Holyrood Palace
Royal Yacht Britannia
The city’s most renowned museums and landmarks
A Royal Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off bus pass makes it easy to discover even more at your own pace.
From Inverness, embark on exciting excursions into the Scottish Highlands:
Cruise Loch Ness in search of “Nessie” and visit Urquhart Castle
Stand on historic ground at Culloden Battlefield
Journey to the Isle of Skye on one of Europe’s most scenic rail routes, exploring hidden corners with our private driver-guide
Tour the stunning Dunrobin Castle with its immaculate gardens and thrilling falconry display
Sample a wee dram of whisky at Glenmorangie Distillery
Enjoy special stops for Outlander fans at filming locations and historic landmarks
Discover more treasures just beyond the city:
Visit St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, explore the historic St. Andrews Cathedral, and tour the prestigious University of St. Andrews
Experience the literary heritage of Abbotsford House, home of Sir Walter Scott
Step inside the mystical Rosslyn Chapel, famed for its role in The Da Vinci Code
This tour includes two of the most beautiful train rides in Europe:
Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, en route to the Isle of Skye, with breathtaking views of mountains, lochs, and glens.
Inverness to Edinburgh, a spectacular rail journey through rugged landscapes and charming Highland villages.
Your journey includes plenty of free time to enjoy shopping, music, pubs, gardens, museums, hiking, biking, and theatre. Whether you’re relaxing in a café or wandering through a castle garden, Scotland offers something special for everyone.
Expert local guides bring history and culture to life
Hand-picked 4-star hotels in prime locations
Stress-free travel by scenic rail, no need for car rentals
Perfect mix of guided sightseeing and leisure time
Ready to experience the magic of Scotland by train? Join us on our Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands by Scenic Rail Tour for an intimate, immersive travel experience.
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Professor Steve Solosky, The Traveling Professor, is the founder of Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor, operating since 2009. A former college professor and author of The Traveling Professor’s Guide to Paris, Steve has planned and led small group tours throughout Europe, Canada, South America, and beyond. His travel expertise has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, WCBS Radio, and The New York Times Travel Show.
Each article is written or reviewed from the perspective of a working tour operator who plans real itineraries, works with local guides and hotels, and helps travelers prepare for successful small group trips.