Day Trips from Edinburgh to Central Scotland

Visit the amazing Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel , two unique tour experiences – the unique Falkirk Wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world . Five star tour of the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. The Kelpies are the largest equine sculpture in the world, each is 100 feet high and made from 300 tones of steel . The Kelpies are a tribute to the Clydesdale horses used to pull barges on the canals of Scotland in the 19th century . The Kelpies were mystical and dangerous water creatures . In mythology , the Kelpies could rise out of the sea in the form of a horse and grab a sheep and then disappear back into the sea. A one hour boat trip over the Wheel is available ( optional extra, bookable separately ) Your Falkirk based guide gives advice on the best viewpoints for taking photos. Small private group tour for up to 4 people. Last-minute bookings up to 24 hours in advance. Shore excursions available from Edinburgh . This is the perfect day trip from Edinburgh to Falkirk

Meet Highland Cows, Explore Stirling Castle, and Taste Authentic Scottish Whisky – All in One Day Type: Private Tour | Availability: all year round Meet Scotland’s Famous Highland Cows Start your day with an unforgettable visit to a local farm in the heart of the Scottish countryside, where you’ll meet the adorable and iconic Hamish the Highland cow and his two friends . These shaggy-haired, horned beauties are a must-see for anyone visiting Scotland. Last-minute bookings welcome – reserve up to 24 hours in advance. Shore excursions available from Edinburgh ports. Stirling Castle is a stunning fortress built on volcanic rock . Enquire about upgrades including extra stops. This is the perfect day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling and the Highland cows

Save time and check off four Scottish castles on this full-day private tour from Edinburgh. Three of the castles—Doune, Blackness, and Drummond Castle—are featured in the television show “Outlander”. Fans will also recognize Doune Castle as the fictional Winterfell in “Game of Thrones”. The trip also visits Stirling Castle—the home of Scottish aristocrats for many generations.

The Scottish countryside is famous for being the filming location of the hit TV show Outlander. Travel between the real-life locations that Doune Castle and Wentworth Prison were based upon during a private day trip from Edinburgh, on which you’ll receive undivided from your guide.

Explore Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle (admission tickets own expense)—and delve into the world of William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and Rob Roy—on this multi-part tour from Edinburgh that checks off many top sights and experiences. Additionally, head through the Trossachs National Park to the Highland village of Balloch, upgrade for a lake cruise, see the famous Kelpies statues, and more.

Swap the usual sightseeing tours for the chance to discover the palaces and castles of the "Outlander" TV series on this tour from Edinburgh. Visit some of the sites that starred in the fictional Jacobite saga, including Linlithgow Palace, the setting of Wentworth Prison; and Culross, the setting of Claire’s herb garden. Throughout the tour enjoy guide commentary with fun behind-the-scenes stories about the show.

Even if you have only a short time to explore Scotland, you can discover the best of the Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh. Head north for the haunting valley of Glencoe. See the enigmatic Glenfinnan Viaduct, known from the Harry Potter movies, explore Fort William, and spend time in the charming village of Pitlochry.

See the best of Scotland in one action-packed day on this tour from Edinburgh. Rather than focusing on the road and missing out on the scenery the Highlands' is so famous for, you can admire Stirling Castle, Rannoch Moor, and the soaring peaks of Glen Coe while someone else drives. Head along the banks of Loch Linnhe to Fort William and enjoy free time to explore Loch Ness.

Experience the beauty of rural Scotland on a full-day tour of the West Highlands—with its lochs, mountains, and castles—from Edinburgh. Visit Doune Castle (all admissions own expense), admire fine views over shimmering lakes and soaring peaks, and enjoy free time and a visit to the castle in Inveraray. Then, head onward to Kilchurn Castle—one of Scotland's prettiest castles.

This is a private tour with an experienced guide who will help you experience Oban like a local. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accomodation in Edinburgh and be transported in comfort and style in one of our Mercedes or Land Rover vehicles. You will avoid the places the coach tours go, be able to make the day suit what you want to do and get to see some amazing places you would otherwise miss on the journey to and from Oban from Edinburgh. Your guide will recommend local lunch spots, fill you in on an array of Scottish culture and history and answer all your questions about Scotland so you will end the day knowing more about Scotland and Oban than most. You will go beyond the surface of just seeing the pretty town that is Oban, you will.learn about it's rich history, the famous characters who made it famous and how it played a role in world wars and even the Cold War.

Discover the beauty, history, and spirit of Scotland on this exclusive 12-hour private tour departing from Edinburgh. Travel in comfort with your personal chauffeur-guide in English as you explore some of the country’s most iconic landmarks: the majestic Stirling Castle, the breathtaking Queen’s View, and the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. This tailor-made experience also includes a memorable stop at the renowned Blair Athol Distillery, where you’ll enjoy a guided whisky tasting and learn about one of Scotland’s most beloved traditions. With a balance of history, nature, and local flavor, this tour offers an immersive journey into the heart of Scotland—perfect for those seeking an unforgettable day out. This tour is the perfect blend of history, culture, and tradition — ideal for travellers seeking a deeper, more authentic Scottish experience.

Begin your day with a visit to Stirling Castle, one of the most historically significant castles in Scotland. Perched high above the city, it offers dramatic views and fascinating tales of Scottish royalty and warfare. Your entry ticket is included, allowing you to explore its grand halls, royal chambers, and beautifully restored Renaissance architecture at your own pace. ✅ Private 12-hour experience with a professional English-speaking driver/guide ✅ Entry to the majestic Stirling Castle ✅ Explore the historic town of St Andrews at your leisure ✅ Guided visit and tasting at a local whisky distillery ✅ Travel in a comfortable, private vehicle ✅ Personalised and flexible itinerary Continue your journey through the picturesque countryside to St Andrews, a charming coastal town famous as the “home of golf” and for hosting Scotland’s oldest university. Enjoy free time to stroll along the medieval streets, visit the cathedral ruins, or walk along the stunning beaches.

The landscape around Edinburgh is rich in drama, both fictional and historical. On this Outlander-themed tour, you'll see the picturesque locations where the series was filmed, and will discover a selection of top Scottish landmarks, too. Over the course of one day, set off to discover castles, historic villages, and more, learning behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the popular TV show as you go.

Leave Scotland’s busy capital behind—and make exploring the Highlands completely hassle-free–on this immersive day trip from Edinburgh. Check off many highlights in one day: Travel to Callander—the gateway to the Highlands—and enjoy spectacular views over mighty Glencoe. Spend time at the famed Loch Ness, and explore Fort Augustus at your leisure. Stop in the pretty Victorian town of Pitlochry, and travel along the banks of Loch Laggan en route back to Edinburgh.

Exploring Scotland beyond Edinburgh can feel daunting—with so much to see, where do you start? This full-day tour takes away the guesswork with a comprehensive itinerary and multiple stops. Leave the logistics to someone else as you visit the historic Stirling Castle (own expense), taste Scottish whisky at the Glengoyne Distillery, and travel through the picturesque Highlands to explore Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Uncover the mysteries of Loch Ness on a day trip from Edinburgh that saves you the hassle of car hire. Set out north along Scotland's West Coast to experience one of the country's most iconic lochs. En route, pass some incredible sights as someone else takes the wheel, including the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, Ben Nevis, and dramatic Highlands landscapes. Your guide regales you with stories about the area that you won't find in the guidebook.

Discover the thrill of the Highland Games on this exciting tour from central Edinburgh. Meet your local guide and hop on a coach to the games site, which varies by season, with the highlight being in Braemar on the first weekend of September. As you journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, learn about the rich history of the Highland Games, originating from 11th-century clan competitions that tested strength and stamina. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Scottish culture and tradition, perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. *See below for 2027 Highland Games schedule.* Sun 30 May 2027 Blair Atholl Sun 13 June 2027 Glamis Sat 03 July 2027 Luss Sun 01 August 2027 Bridge of Allan Sun 22 August 2027 Crieff Sat 04 September 2027 Braemar Sat 11 September 2027 Pitlochry

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Scottish revelry with a full-day trip to the Scottish Highland Games from Edinburgh. Enjoy the rugged natural beauty of the highlands as you pass lochs, mountains and sweeping glens en route to the gaming site. Watch men in traditional Highland dress compete in hammer throwing, tug-of-war and tossing the caber. Book early to ensure a place at this popular event!

Escape from Edinburgh and spend a relaxing day exploring some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland, including Loch Lomond and seeing a Hairy Coo or two. During this small-group tour we absorb unique Scottish scenery at its best with many magnificent lochs (lakes) set against backdrops of dramatic mountains. We'll also weave stories of Scottish history, pass through battle sites and be introduced to our nation's mythical creatures.

Explore the enchanting Scottish Highlands on this captivating, small-group day tour from Edinburgh. Cruise the storied waters of Loch Ness, where legends of Nessie await, and wander through the ancient ruins of Urquhart Castle, steeped in history. Experience the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe as you traverse majestic mountains and picturesque glens, immersing yourself in the rich stories and myths that define the Highlands. This tour promises to reveal the very essence of Scotland in a single day, making it perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. - Full-day tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh - Enjoy a scenic cruise on Loch Ness, searching for the legendary Nessie - Visit the iconic Urquhart Castle and learn about its storied past - Experience the stunning beauty of Glen Coe and Highland towns