Rail Adventure: Highlights of Scotland
From energetic Edinburgh and Glasgow to lush Loch Ness
Hop aboard the Scottish rail and enjoy scenic rides through Scotland's picturesque countryside! On this unbelievable adventure, you'll experience the vibrancy of Scotland's most popular cities, as well as the postcard-worthy beauty of its mountainous, lake-filled landscapes. Enjoy convenient airport transfers, unique tours, and much more!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Edinburgh (EDI), out of Glasgow (GLA)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Market Street Hotel, or similar
- Royal Tour Ticket with fast-track access to:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Holyrood Palace
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience Tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central, or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (1 Day)
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Snap tons of photos as you take in stunning views from the train.
- Try authentic Haggis, Scotland's beloved national dish.
-
Climb up an extinct volcano and explore Edinburgh Castle!
-
Go ahead and treat yourself to a glass of world-famous Scottish scotch.
-
Be on the lookout for Nessie, the legendary monster who resides in Loch Ness!
Embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey through spectacular Scotland! Feel your eyes widen as you ride through soaring mountains, bright greenery, and sparkling lakes. Enjoy luxurious stays in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, where you'll be treated to tons of unique tours!
Your adventure begins in the medieval alleyways of Edinburgh. Explore ancient volcanoes, historic castles, and charming shop-lined streets! While in Edinburgh, enjoy your Royal Tour, which includes fast-track access to Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and more. The fun doesn't stop there - see every inch of the city from four different tourist bus routes! Then, get ready for your first scenic rail ride.
Before you know it, you'll arrive in Inverness. Get to know the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands on your own where you can discover stunning castles, cathedrals, markets and more. Then, travel to the mysterious Loch Ness and enjoy a tour that's just as interesting as entertaining!
Make the most of your last train ride through the beautiful countryside, then get ready to explore Glasgow! Use your Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Pass to see the very best of this vibrant city. Glasgow is filled with culture and art, so be sure to visit its many galleries, museums, and theaters.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Edinburgh (EDI), out of Glasgow (GLA)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in Edinburgh at the Market Street Hotel, or similar
- Royal Tour Ticket with fast-track access to:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Holyrood Palace
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Standard class rail from Edinburgh to Inverness
- 2 nights in Inverness at the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, or similar
- The Complete Loch Ness Experience Tour
- Standard class rail from Inverness to Glasgow
- 2 nights in Glasgow at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central, or similar
- Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour (1 Day)
- Breakfast Daily
-
Snap tons of photos as you take in stunning views from the train.
- Try authentic Haggis, Scotland's beloved national dish.
-
Climb up an extinct volcano and explore Edinburgh Castle!
-
Go ahead and treat yourself to a glass of world-famous Scottish scotch.
-
Be on the lookout for Nessie, the legendary monster who resides in Loch Ness!
Embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey through spectacular Scotland! Feel your eyes widen as you ride through soaring mountains, bright greenery, and sparkling lakes. Enjoy luxurious stays in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, where you'll be treated to tons of unique tours!
Your adventure begins in the medieval alleyways of Edinburgh. Explore ancient volcanoes, historic castles, and charming shop-lined streets! While in Edinburgh, enjoy your Royal Tour, which includes fast-track access to Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and more. The fun doesn't stop there - see every inch of the city from four different tourist bus routes! Then, get ready for your first scenic rail ride.
Before you know it, you'll arrive in Inverness. Get to know the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands on your own where you can discover stunning castles, cathedrals, markets and more. Then, travel to the mysterious Loch Ness and enjoy a tour that's just as interesting as entertaining!
Make the most of your last train ride through the beautiful countryside, then get ready to explore Glasgow! Use your Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Pass to see the very best of this vibrant city. Glasgow is filled with culture and art, so be sure to visit its many galleries, museums, and theaters.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Edinburgh!
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and enjoy a private airport transfer to your Edinburgh accommodation, the Jurys Inn. The rest of your day can be spent at leisure.
Transfer from EDI Airport to Edinburgh hotel
Perfectly located in the center of Edinburgh with plenty of access to nearby attractions, Market Street is the perfect hotel if you're looking for a clean, friendly, and accessible accommodation while in Scotland. Highly stylized with an archaic exterior and modern interior, guests are sure to feel welcome while enjoying incredible access to outside locations as well as an on-site lounge, restaurant, terrace, and coffee house. Views of the city are incredible from the hotel's many gigantic windows.
Air conditioning runs throughout the hotel, and high speed Wi-Fi is available in every room. Guest rooms are comfortable and decorated in neutral tones with hints of yellow and orange. Each room comes equipped with a private bathroom, television (featuring Chromecast and Apple TV), locally-designed fabrics and furniture, small-business owned coffee grounds, and optional choices for hypoallergenic bedding.
Just a few minutes away from the hotel are some of Edinburgh's most popular attractions. These include the City Art Centre, National Museum of Scotland, the Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and many more.
Experience the true history, beauty, and culture of Edinburgh at the centrally positioned Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh. Located just off the famous Royal Mile, you'll be right in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town. In just steps, find yourself at Holyrood Park, Princes Street Gardens, or the Edinburgh Castle! Head back to the hotel and recharge at the all-day Costa Coffee Bar, perfect for curling up and relaxing with a good book.
Unwind with a drink at the hotel's stylish on-site bar, then head to the contemporary restaurant and indulge in a mouthwatering meal. After an exciting day, close the door to your room and escape to a state of peace and tranquility. You'll completely forget that a bustling city exists right outside. Relax in your large soft bed, catch up on your favorite TV shows, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure. If you happen to crave a midnight snack, don't worry - room service will be at your door in just minutes.
Relax and unwind at The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel, nestled
right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. After a busy day of sightseeing in
the bustling city, you will find yourself only steps away from the comfort and
elegance that this hotel provides. Kick off your shoes and climb into your large,
comfortable bed, or stay up planning your next day, sitting in cozy armchairs
and using the hotel’s complimentary Wi-Fi. All 156 guestrooms are furnished to
the highest standard, featuring triple-glazed windows and boasting marble
bathrooms, creating a quiet, peaceful sanctuary in the middle of center city.
When it’s time to eat, indulge in a delicious, classically
Scottish meal at Acanthus, The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel’s award-winning
restaurant that creates a perfect environment, as it sits just across from
Scottish Parliament and overlooks Arthur’s Seat. By selecting only the finest,
freshest ingredients that are locally sourced where possible, Acanthus is one
of the most exciting new restaurants in Edinburgh. There, you will be treated
to a sensational experience of specialty cocktails, delicious teas, and a
scrumptious breakfast, lunch, or dinner that captures the taste of Scotland.
Pamper yourself at the hotel’s Leisure Club and Spa, which offers
a perfect retreat from the liveliness of Scotland’s capital city. Find serenity in a variety of luxurious spa
treatments, take a swim in the 45-foot headed swimming pool, or work out all of
your stresses in the state of the art Technogym.
Stay close to all of Edinburgh's top attractions with a stay at ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile. Only about half a mile from Edinburgh Castle and even closer to the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral, and the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, the hotel keeps you in the heart of the action. Enjoy comfortably furnished guestrooms and hotel amenities such as a 24-hour bar stocked with a selection of Scottish beers and spirits, speedy Wi-Fi, and an outdoor courtyard to take in a warm afternoon. Fuel up with a good breakfast before you set out to discover the hidden treasures of Edinburgh.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.
Day 2. Edinburgh
Start using your Royal Tour ticket today! You’ll receive 48-hour unlimited access to four city tours. Consider hopping on the Edinburgh tour today; you'll make stops at the National Museum of Scotland, Scottish Parliament, Old town and more. Be sure to hop off at the Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse stops so you can take advantage of your included fast-track access.
Royal Edinburgh Ticket
This unique value-added tour ticket is all you need to explore and experience the royal splendors of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city! You’ll receive 48-hour unlimited access to four city tours, as well as fast-track admission to Edinburgh Castle (the city’s most famous attraction), The Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Queen’s official residence in Scotland) and The Royal Yacht Brittania (The Queen’s floating Royal residence).
Tours Included with Your Ticket:
The Edinburgh Tour – with a live English-speaking guide, and stops including Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland and Scottish Parliament.
City Sightseeing Tour – entertaining and informative commentary, along with a “Horrible Histories” commentary for kids. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town, New Town, National Museum of Scotland, Our Dynamic Earth and Calton Hill.
Majestic Tour - Enjoy an entertaining and informative commentary as you are guided through the history of Edinburgh’s people, places and sights along the route. Highlights include the Royal Yacht Britannia, Royal Botanic Garden, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Old Town and Scottish Parliament.
Day 3. Edinburgh
Choose another included sightseeing bus tour or two today! Be sure to leave time for exploring the Royal Yacht Brittania, the Queen's former floating residence.
You may also want to spend some time exploring the city's Georgian-era New Town today. Admire the well-preserved 18th and 19th-century neoclassical and Georgian-style architecture as you walk along the broad streets. You'll also want to walk along the famous Princes Street, where you can do a bit of shopping or admire the famous Gothic monument to Sir Walter Scott.
Day 4. Edinburgh - Inverness
After a ride on the Scottish rail, arrive in Inverness! Once settled, take a walk along the River Ness over to Inverness Castle for picturesque riverside views.
Train to Inverness!
Located on the River Ness and directly across from Inverness Castle, Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa showcases Victorian elegance with a modern twist. A collection of properties and a modern garden cottage, this hotel offers a charming assortment of contemporary and period guestrooms. Along with a new reception and lounge area, Palace Hotel & Spa is the only Inverness riverside hotel with a Leisure Club & Spa. Eight on the River Brasserie & Bar lets you choose between the Brasserie style menu and the Inclusive Menu, both created to satisfy cravings from Haggis to health food.
A short walk will bring you into Inverness city center, where you can peruse shops, explore Inverness Castle, or catch a show at Eden Court Theatre. Spirited travelers enjoy the Whiskey trail across the Highlands and Grampian, where they can sample the finest Scottish Malts. Wherever you venture, you'll be swept away by the city imbued with history and folklore.
Set in nine acres of parkland with spectacular views over the Moray Firth, the listed art deco New Drumossie Hotel is an oasis of peace and elegance. In close reach of several of the finest links golf courses in the world, this welcoming Highland destination is located ten minutes from Inverness centre. Perfectly positioned for the rich, local heritage of Culloden, Loch Ness and the Cairngorms, the new Drumossie Hotel is perfect for a relaxing weekend.
Experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands from the comfort of your luxurious, peaceful room at the New Drumossie Hotel. Appointed to the highest standard, enjoy traditional grandeur which comes with satellite television, a large comfortable bed and a spacious en-suite with separate bath and shower. For deluxe toiletries and even more space, upgrade to a Feature Room. Accessible Rooms and Family Rooms are also available on request.
Day 5. Inverness
Today, enjoy your special Loch Ness cruise! No visit to the Scottish Highlands is complete without a tour of this world-famous landmark, which is overflowing with fascinating myths, turbulent history, and tales of a legendary monster.
The Complete Loch Ness Experience (ASA)
This small-group day tour lets you discover all the marvelous views and secrets of Loch Ness! You leave Inverness and follow the Caledonian Canal to the source of the River Ness. Your guide takes you down the road less traveled to Dores, on the eastern side of the loch. This tiny village boasts a beach with the most striking vista of Loch Ness and the Great Glen rift valley. Just a short ride away is your next stop, the forest community of Foyers, where you can walk downhill through native pine trees to see the hidden-away Falls of Foyers. This stunning waterfall was a favorite spot for Robert Burns, and if you're lucky you may spot a dashing red squirrel! Invigorated after the falls, you continue south, driving on single track roads in a typical Highland experience. After a twisty drive through forested landscape, you arrive at Fort Augustus, the furthermost point of the tour. Here you can have your lunch (not included) and take pictures of the boats coming in through the Caledonian Canal. Next, you'll venture to Invermoriston, where you can take a short walk to an old summer house, with views of the River Moriston. Whether you believe the legends or not, keep your eyes peeled for the monster and breathtaking vistas, as we continue along the banks of Loch Ness. If you want to discover more of the beauty and mystery of the loch, embark on a one-hour cruise and sail past Urquhart Castle (optional, and at an extra cost). Then, we continue along Loch Ness and return to Inverness in the early evening.
Day 6. Inverness - Glasgow
Enjoy one more train ride over to Glasgow, Scotland's cultural capital today. Start your Glasgow adventure off by touring the breathtaking City Chambers, which is actually comprised of more marble than there is in the whole of Italy's Vatican City!
A Tip For Your Trip: Tours of the City Chamber are free and take place daily.
Train to Glasgow!
Walk in to stylish comfort, friendly smiles, and signature warm chocolate chip cookies. After checking in, open the door to your room and fall into a state of pure tranquility and relaxation. Sprawl out on your large bed, catch up on some TV, or use the hotel's free WiFi to say hello to family and friends. When it's time to explore Glasgow, take a walk to the nearby main shopping district and many top attractions including the famous Glasgow City Chambers and iconic Glasgow Cathedral. In the mood to venture farther? Not to worry. This hotel is just 10 short minutes from two bustling railway stations.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool. Unwind with a pre-dinner drink in the Cask Bar, the indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at the sophisticated on-site Brisket Restaurant. Savor craft beers, fine wines, and fine beef from The Buccleuch estate.
Situated in the heart of Glasgow, the Leonardo Hotel Glasgow is a stone’s throw away from a plethora of restaurants and bars, a three minute walk from St Enoch shopping center and just around the corner from Alston Bar & Beef, the best steak and gin in Glasgow. The hotel is within a ten minute walk of three major stations - Glasgow Central, Queen Street and Argyle Street, making it the ideal hotel for transport links within the city center.
The Leonardo Glasgow offers 321 comfortable, stylish rooms with complimentary toiletries, a flat screen TV, free WiFi, air conditioning and room service available 24 hours. Enjoy a little Scottish flavor and a dram of Scotch at The Grill Bar. Enjoy coffee or hot chocolate from the all-day Costa coffee bar where you can sit with a newspaper, curl up with a good book, or surf the web on Jurys Inn’s hotel-wide free WiFi.
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Day 7. Glasgow
Explore the city with help from your included sightseeing bus pass today! From the top deck of the tour bus you will enjoy sweeping views of the beautiful landscapes and exceptional architecture that this city has to offer - from famous art galleries and museums to attractive parks. Consider taking one full loop to first enjoy the audio tours, including a special Ghoulish Glasgow channel for children!
Visit the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to artworks from many European masters, from Monet to Van Gogh to Rembrandt. Those with a taste for the performing arts may want to catch a show at the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, or National Theater of Scotland.
A Tip For Your Trip: The full loop of the sightseeing bus takes approximately 105 minutes.
Glasgow City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (1 Day)
Experience vibrant Glasgow from the top deck of a tour bus! Explore famous art galleries and museums, hop off at picturesque parks, or enjoy the full-loop on the bus and enjoy the audio tours, including a special Ghoulish Glasgow channel for children! The hop-on/hop-off bus tours provide entertaining and colorful insight into Glasgow’s past and present. The full loop takes approximately 105 minutes - however you can hop on and off wherever and whenever you'd like, along the way.
Day 8. Depart Scotland
Your Scotland adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to the airport in accordance with your departure flight.
Transfer from Glascow hotel to GLA Airport
Fly home!
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