Small Group Travel Blog: Expert Travel Tips, Destination Guides & Tour Advice

Welcome to the Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor travel blog, featuring expert travel tips, destination guides, cruise advice, airfare strategies, packing suggestions, and first-hand insights from more than 17 years of planning small group tours.

Since 2009, we have helped solo travelers, couples, and friends enjoy adults-only small group tours and luxury river cruises with quality hotels, expert local guides, thoughtful pacing, and personal service.

Explore articles on Scotland, Ireland, Norway, Iceland, Peru, Newfoundland, Paris, Normandy, Santa Fe, Canada, Italy, and AmaWaterways river cruises — then view our current Small Group Tours and River Cruises.

29Oct

7 Things To See in Scotland

You Must See These Sites in Scotland

Scotland has quickly become one of The Traveling Professor’s most popular destinations — and it’s easy to see why. Our Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands by Scenic Rail tour consistently sells out, combining breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and authentic Scottish charm. Traveling by train through the Highlands offers a comfortable, scenic, and relaxed way to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Here are just a few of the unforgettable highlights from our small group Scotland tour:

Edinburgh Castle

Dominating the city’s skyline, Edinburgh Castle is one of Western Europe’s most exciting historic sites. It holds the Crown Jewels of Scotland and serves as the spectacular backdrop for the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. A visit here is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s rich royal and military heritage.

Rosslyn Chapel

Step into mystery at Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century architectural masterpiece shrouded in legend. Made famous by The Da Vinci Code, its intricate carvings and fascinating history make it a must-see stop on our Scotland itinerary.

Eilean Donan Castle

No image captures the spirit of Scotland quite like Eilean Donan Castle. Perched where three great sea lochs meet, this iconic fortress is surrounded by majestic mountains and serene waters. It’s one of the most photographed — and most beloved — castles in the world.

Train Ride from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

One of the highlights of our tour is the scenic train ride from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. This route winds through dramatic Highland landscapes, charming villages, and tranquil lochs — truly one of the most beautiful train journeys in all of Europe.

Clava Cairns

Fans of Outlander will recognize the Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site near Inverness. Dating back over 4,000 years, it’s a fascinating and mystical glimpse into Scotland’s ancient past.

The Quiraing

Located on the Isle of Skye, The Quiraing is one of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. Towering cliffs, hidden plateaus, and sweeping views make it a favorite for photographers and hikers alike. You’ll understand why so many travelers call this their favorite stop in Scotland.

Dunrobin Castle

Known as the “Jewel of the Highlands,” Dunrobin Castle is home to formal gardens, opulent interiors, and an impressive daily falconry show. Its fairy-tale design and seaside setting make it one of Scotland’s most elegant estates.


Travel Scotland with The Traveling Professor

Our small group tours to Scotland are designed for adults, seniors, and solo travelers who value comfort, camaraderie, and authentic experiences. With only 10–16 travelers per group, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience and plenty of flexibility to explore.

Join us on the next Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands by Scenic Rail tour and experience the very best of Scotland — from castles to coastlines, trains to tartans.

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Who Writes the Small Group Tour Blog?

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.

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