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Family trip to Scotland

Amazing tour! Wonderful guide, always so helpful and friendly, very comfortable car, all experiences planned to detail! We had the best family holidays ever Thank you!

Date of experience : September 01, 2023

A magical experience!

It's impossible to include in a short review everything that made this trip such an incredible experience. Alisdair and Amy went above and beyond to craft a well-rounded, well-paced, fascinating experience. Our driver, Neil, was professional, and attentive, and made sure everything went without a hitch. He was a joy to travel with. I could not possibly recommend Private Tours Scotland more enthusiastically.

Date of experience : August 26, 2023

10/10 Would Recommend Using Private Tours Scotland for your golf trip

Worked with Private Tours Scotland to set up a week-long golf trip for my Father's 60th Birthday. I could not be happier with our experience. My dad and the other members of our party gave me 1000 compliments for how I planned the trip, but it was really all thanks to Struan, Amy, and a few others at PTS. They were extremely easy to work with, and created a full agenda from hotels, restaurants, golf, and daily activities - I didn't lift a finger. On top of it all, our driver for the week, Ally, was truly awesome, and made the trip. 10/10 recommend using Private Tours Scotland for your next trip.

Date of experience : June 11, 2023

A wonderful stress-free tour of Scotland

Private Tours Scotland helped us plan an itinerary that was just right for us. They worked with our unique needs and interests. They have a wealth of knowledge about things to see and wonderful places to stay. Our driver was the perfect combination of knowledgeable, personable and professional. He was able to help us make minor adjustments to our plans, adding and dropping stops as time allowed. It was so nice to have somebody else handle the mechanics of travelling, allowing us to just show up and have fun. We had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend Private Tours Scotland to anyone wanting a wonderful stress-free trip to Scotland.

Date of experience : May 07, 2023

The Only Way to See Scotland

Let me start by saying - my husband is afraid to fly. In order to get him to agree to a very long flight to Scotland, I had to tempt him with a VERY special itinerary full of unique experiences. We definitely wanted to avoid the kind of trip where we would be a small part of a very large bus group, subject to the limitations of large group travel (some people love this, but we just don’t). Private Tours Scotland/Luxury Scotland Tours (PTS/LST) was the answer we needed. We chose the Malt Whisky Indulgence Tour, and every aspect was exceptionally choreographed to deliver a stress-free, relaxing and fun travel experience. PTS/LST created a daily itinerary, based on our personal preferences and interests, that balanced distillery tours and warehouse tastings with scenic nature excursions, castles, and historic sites. We were delighted with the accommodations (4- and 5-star) that provided graciously appointed and comfortable rooms. PTS/LST suggested delicious restaurants for each evening and made the dining reservations on our behalf. But for us, the best part of the trip was the private car and driver. We knew this was a good decision after visiting with other North American travelers we met along the way, who had naively thought that driving on the other side of the road would be an easy transition. More than once, we heard about the near misses and high-stress journeys. And our driver was phenomenal! From the moment Alan greeted us at our pick-up location, until he dropped us off for our final goodbyes, he shepherded us through the itinerary, offering additional insight to the places we visited, answering questions and sharing his love for his home country by letting us see Scotland through his eyes. Our only job was to sit back and enjoy. We truly feel like we made a friend that we will keep long after our return to the states. I would HIGHLY recommend Private Tours Scotland/Luxury Scotland Tours and will be singing their praises for a long time to come.

Date of experience : June 01, 2023

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Private Scotland Tours

Find the right private tour for you in Scotland. There are 19 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 10 days. The month with the most departures is May, making it the most popular time to visit Scotland.

19 Private tours of Scotland with 22 positive reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Hebridean Escape

sites were great. felt rather rushed at times. driver had a few good bits of history to share but was otherwise unengaged

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Scotland Self Drive

Great car with automatic. Accommodation was pretty good. Breakfasts were nourishing.

NC500 Self Drive Tour

• Christmas & New Year

Best of Scottish Lochs, the Highlands, Edinburgh and Glasgow in 6Days (Partially-guided, Independent)

Taste of Scotland

• Food & Culinary

Scotland Culinary

• Hiking & Trekking

Walking the Rob Roy Way

Looking for tours beyond just scotland.

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Scotland.

London and Edinburgh in a week

Scotland Tour: Best of North Coast 500 Route - Pre-set sat-nav guided

St. Cuthbert's Way

Walking the West Highland Way

• Sightseeing

3 Day Outlander Tour

Edinburgh | The Athens Of The North

Walking the Speyside Way

Great Glen Way - A Scottish Fairy Tale (9 days)

Private scotland tour reviews.

Very comprehensive & enjoyable tour.

Overall it was a very nice trip, I think it was well laid out for traveling

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Private Travel Agents & Tour Companies
• Best Private Tours in the World
• Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Schottland Privatreise Rundreisen
• Français: Écosse : Voyages privés
• Español: Privado Circuitos en Escocia
• Nederlands: Privé Rondreizen in Schotland

Private Tours Scotland

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Private Tours Scotland - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Multi-Day Tours

Discreet Scotland

Luxury private tours of scotland.

Celebrating 14 Years of Luxury Private Touring

Enjoy luxury private Scotland tours to visit our Castles, Monuments, Lochs and Mountains with our selection of the very best Scottish Tours available.

Our private Scotland tours are simply unbeatable. Leave the coach trips behind and travel in one of our luxury 4×4 Land Rover Range Rover or Discovery vehicles with your own kilted chauffeur guide – have a friend show you around.

We are a small family-run business based in Edinburgh. We offer discreet private Scotland tours in the comfort you deserve. There are no time restrictions on our Scotland tours, so you decide how long or little you wish to stay at each location.

Our luxury private Scotland tours are designed to maximize your experience of our country in whatever time you have available. Book your Private Scotland Tour today, with Discreet Scotland luxury private tours.

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Luxury Private Tours of Scotland

Immerse Yourself in Real Scottish Culture, Fascinating History, Discover Hidden Gems and Mysteries Beyond the Guide Books on your exclusive Private Tour of Scotland experience.

Private Tours of Scotland

Tour Scotland with

Little scottish treasures .

For travelers embarking on a Scottish adventure, look no further than Little Scottish Treasures. We are a family company based a short distance from both Edinburgh & Glasgow offering a diverse range of private tours, which combine sightseeing, culture, fun and adventure, either within our award winning tailor made itineraries, or one of our popular private tours of Scotland, we are dedicated to crafting a vacation that exceeds your expectations.

Multi Day Tours

Make the most of your Scottish vacation with one of our celebrated multi day tours of Scotland

Private Day Tours

Choose from some of the best Scottish day tours on the market leaving from Glasgow or Edinburgh

Ancestry Tours

Walk in the footsteps of your ancestors or visit the home of your GG Granddad during an exquisite private tour

Bespoke Tours

Be sure to visit your must see locations or add a twist to your trip with a bespoke private Scottish tour

Customer reviews.

Lising Family California

"Absolutely stunning day and tour. We are blown away by the care and detail put into our day, by Peter and Carolina. We saw everything on our bucket list and then some. The stories and explanations of historical significance, dates, names, atmosphere is incredible to learn along the way as Peter draws such a rich picture for even the first time Scotland traveler to imagine. We were not disappointed, returned home happily exhausted and felt like we had time traveled through the entire day."

Donna & Stella South Carolina

"We had an INCREDIBLE private tour through Scotland thanks to Little Scottish Treasures! Jamie McPhail, our guide and driver, was exceptional! He was so knowledgeable and entertaining! He went out of his way to make sure we had a great tour and didn’t miss anything. When we had heavy rains one day, he rearranged the schedule on the spot. Scotland was the highlight of our three weeks in the UK thanks to Jamie and Little Scottish Treasures!"

Lolanda & Amigas Barcelona

Recomendable 100%. Un tour personalizado de acuerdo con aquello que más te interesa, añadiendo lugares preciosos y llenos de historia. Escocia es increible, pero haciendo el tour con Little Scottish Treasures es aún mejor. La calidez y dedicación de Carolina y Jamie, junto con su entusiasmo y conocimiento del país e historia, han hecho del viaje una experiencia fantástica.

A Private Scottish Tour: The best way to experience all that Scotland has to offer.

Scotland, is a land of ancient castles, rolling hills, and dramatic landscapes, a dream destination for many travelers. But if you want to truly immerse yourself in Scottish culture and experience the country's natural beauty like never before, a private Scottish tour with Little Scottish Treasures is the perfect way to go.

Little Scottish Treasures is a local family run company that specializes in providing personalized, small-group tours of Scotland. Our experienced guides will take you on a journey through the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Skye, Scottish Borders and beyond, introducing you to the country's rich history, culture, and natural wonders.

On our private tours, you'll have the opportunity to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that most visitors miss. You'll also have the chance to tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether you're passionate about history, nature, whisky, or something else entirely.

Here are just a few of the reasons why a private Scottish tour with us is the best way to see Scotland:

Personalized Attention: We will ensure that your tour is tailored to your interests and preferences. This means that you'll have the flexibility to explore the places and activities that most excite you.

Small-Group Experience: Our tours are limited to small groups of up to 8 people, which ensures a more intimate and personalized experience. This also means that we can get off the beaten path and visit places that are off-limits to larger groups.

Expert Local Guides: Our guides are passionate about Scotland and are eager to share their knowledge with you. During your private tour they will provide you with insights into Scottish history, culture, and natural beauty that you won't find anywhere else.

Flexibility and Adaptability: We are able to adapt our itineraries to suit your needs, whether you need to make changes due to weather or other circumstances. We are also flexible with the starting and ending points of our tour.

Unique Experiences: We will take you to some of the less-visited places in Scotland, like hidden castles, scenic viewpoints, and local farms. We will also introduce you to local traditions and customs that you won't find on mass-market tours.

Sustainable Tourism: We are committed to responsible tourism and we will use local suppliers whenever possible. We will also minimize our impact on the environment, such as by using eco-friendly transportation and accommodations.

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Scotland or a seasoned traveler, a private Scottish tour with Little Scottish Treasures is an experience you won't forget.

Some of the Highlights of our Tours:

Exploring the Scottish Highlands, including Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Ness, and Eilean Donan Castle.

Discover the magic of the Isle of Skye, with its stunning scenery, ancient castles, and charming villages.

Visit a traditional whisky distillery and learn about the history and production of Scotland's national drink.

Take a scenic drive along the North Coast 500, Scotland's newest long-distance driving route.

Contact us today to book your private tour of Scotland. We can't wait to show you the beauty of our home and share our passion for this incredible country with you.

 For more to do in Scdotland's capital city visit https://www.kayak.co.uk/Edinburgh.29671.guide

FIND YOUR SCOTTISH ADVENTURE

Discover the magic of Scotland on your terms with a private, bespoke tour from passionate, authentic guides. 

WE ARE YOUR SCOTTISH  EXPERIENCE

At Your Scottish Experience, we have had the the privilege of  working with guests from all over the globe for over 20 years to create the perfect trip. Our passion for Scotland, her landscape and her history shines through in all that we do and we love nothing more than showcasing our amazing 'wee' country to the world. 

Our mission is to show a different side of Scotland to our guests, and to help them gain a better and deeper understanding of the sites and destinations we visit. If you’d like to tour with us, please get in touch so we can start creating the perfect itinerary for you.  

YOUR TOUR, YOUR WAY

Your time is precious and we want to make sure that your Scottish trip is exactly as you want it. That's why no two of our trips are the same and we work with you directly from first contact to ensure your tour is uniquely tailored to your needs. Have a look at our one day, multiday and special interest tour ideas to get some inspiration and then get in touch to start building you tour. Pick ups can be arranged from Glasgow, Edinburgh or Stirling and surrounding areas. 

One Day Tours

Looking for a taste of Scotland but have limited time? On a cruise with a day to spare? No problem! Visit lochs, mountains, castles and the odd Hairy Coo, all within easy reach of Central Scotland. 

Multiday Tours 

Prefect for those looking for a longer adventure. Always dreamed visiting the Isle of Skye? Or got your heart set on searching for Nessie? Get in touch! 

Special Interest Tours

Are you a whisky connoisseur or an Outlander fan? Or do you have family clan connections you would love to explore? We can help!

HEAR FROM OUR GUESTS

“The time spent with David was by far the most relaxing and enjoyable part of our trip to Scotland. His wealth of knowledge about Scottish history and his delivery of the information was engaging. His sense of humor had us laughing throughout the week. We developed a deeper appreciation of the land and the people. It was clear to us that David loves his country as it was present in his delivery.”

Rita, Philadelphia, USA

Unforgettable Private Tours of Scotland

Discover Scotland with your Private Driver-Guide

Experience the greatest wee country in the world on a private driver-guided tour. Choose from one of the tours or itineraries we have prepared, or simply let us know how long you intend to visit Scotland for and we will create a completely complimentary custom itinerary tailored to your tastes , and full of incredible suggestions from our tour planning specialists that we are sure you will enjoy.

Start planning your Scottish adventure with Braw Scottish Tours today by clicking ‘Create a custom tour’ below:

Our popular private tours of scotland

Including England & Ireland on your Scottish tour

Many of our clients visit Scotland as part of a wider tour of the UK and Ireland. If this is something you might be interested in then please mention it in your online inquiry and we can build you a custom itinerary full of both the major attractions and off-the-beaten-track experiences in those countries too.

What makes our private tours of Scotland so 'Braw'?

We provide a bespoke and tailored tour experience that others simply cannot match, from the moment you touch down at the airport or arrive at your desired pick-up point, your guide will be there to greet you and prepare you for the journey of a lifetime.

Friendly Local Experts

As you set off you will soon understand why the Scots are regarded as some of the most outgoing and friendly people in the world while you get to know your guide.

Never Miss a Beat

The passion and depth of knowledge of our drivers ensure the history and tradition that we Scots are so fiercely proud of is brought to life for you through a story, legend, and the occasional myth! If you are seeking authentic cultural experiences then our local insight will make sure that you are kept up to date with the events and activities in the area.

Explore in comfort

Our fully customizable private driver and small group tours cover town-to-city, highlands, and islands, special interests such as golf, TV and film locations, and everything in-between.

Our Clients Loved Their Private Tour Experience

Get a Custom Driver Guided Tour Itinerary

All our tours are completely customizable and tailor-made to suit you and your group’s needs, just fill in the form below and tell us what you want to do and how long you’ll be visiting us and our tour experts will do the rest.

Even if you don’t know where you want to start and would like some inspiration, fill in your contact details below and your personal tour expert will be in touch to help you plan your perfect vacation in Scotland.

inspire your trip to Scotland

28 Day Driver-Guided Scotland Tour

Discover Scotland's natural beauty and historic charm like never before on this comprehensive 28-day driver-guided...

3 Weeks Driver-Guided UK Tour Itinerary

Explore the UK with your private driver guide on our 3 week itinerary. England, Scotland...

18 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

Discover the wide range of activities & sites Scotland has to offer in this fantastic...

16 Day Guided Tour of Scotland

Explore a wide selection of Scotland's best sites over 16 day magical days, including Edinburgh,...

14 Day Tour of Scotland & Ireland

Explore the best of these two Celtic nations in this 14-day driver-guided tour. Get in...

12 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

Explore premier Scottish sites with your driver-guide on this 12 day tour including Edinburgh, Stirling,...

10 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

In this exciting 10 day tour, our private driver-guides will expertly chauffeur you to some...

7 Day Private Tour of Scotland Itinerary

In this wonderful 7-day tour, our private driver-guides will expertly chauffeur you to some of...

6 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

Spend just under a week with our expert guides exploring fantastic Scottish sites including Edinburgh,...

5 Day Private Tour of Scotland Itinerary

In this fantastic 5 day tour, our private driver guides will expertly chauffeur you to...

4 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

Explore Scotland with your own private driver-guides on this 4-day tour of Scotland itinerary, featuring...

3 Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary

Explore Edinburgh & the surrounding areas on this incredible 3 Day Tour of Scotland, including...

Make your dream tour of scotland a braw one

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Discreet Scotland Private Tours

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Discreet Scotland Private Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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The 22 Best Scotland Tours

Explore castles, lakes, national parks and more on these top-rated excursions.

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Edinburgh Castle is a featured stop on many of the best tours in Edinburgh.

From its castles to its history to its fabled food and drink, Scotland has a great variety of attractions to offer visitors. It can be difficult to see the country by yourself, so why not take a guided tour? Should you be staying in Edinburgh or Glasgow , you can make the most of your time with a half-day history or food tour of those cities. If you want to escape the bustle for a bit, sign up for a trip to the world-famous Scottish Highlands , which can be tricky to reach on your own without a car. Using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News determined that these are the best tours of Scotland. No matter which one you choose, or where you decide to go, each trip features a local guide eager to share their knowledge and love of Scotland.

SANDEMANs New Europe – Edinburgh Dark Side Tour

History buffs and thrill-seekers alike will enjoy this two-hour walking tour, which covers some of Edinburgh's most famous murders and mysteries. During the stroll, you'll hear tales about cannibals and vampires, body snatchers and witch burnings. You'll also visit Calton Cemetery and the Canongate Kirkyard, where caged-in graves still exist. Reviewers rave about the tour guides, who they describe as humorous, engaging and adept at storytelling. Travelers assure that though the subject matter is grim, the tour is not too scary. Tours are generally available each evening at 6:30 p.m.; they depart from High Street and finish on the Royal Mile . Tickets start at 16 pounds (around $20) for adults and 5 pounds (about $6) for kids ages 5 to 13; children 4 and younger can join for free. SANDEMANs New Europe also operates free walking tours that offers an overview Edinburgh's top attractions , as well as a "Harry Potter" tour, among others.

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City Sightseeing – Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing offers hop-on, hop-off bus tours of both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Edinburgh route features 12 stops, including the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland , John Knox House and the Palace of Holyroodhouse . Glasgow's route offers 21 stops, including the Glasgow Cathedral , the Riverside Museum and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum . Both tours permit passengers to explore the various destinations at their own pace and hop on a later bus to proceed to the next stop. Travelers find the tours convenient for taking in the popular spots in both cities. If you take the full loop without hopping off, the Edinburgh tour lasts approximately one hour; the buses run approximately every 30 minutes. The Glasgow tour is slightly longer at roughly 90 minutes; buses run every 15 minutes during summer, every 30 minutes in the spring and every 60 minutes in the fall and winter. Both tours provide recorded audio commentary in multiple languages. The Glasgow tour deploys live guides on select tours from March through October. Single-day tickets for both tours cost approximately $20. Two-day hop-on hop-off tickets are also available.

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Cruise Loch Ness – Daily Cruise

Cruise Loch Ness' Daily Cruise offers views of sights such as Loch Ness' sole island, Cherry Island, and Fort Augustus Abbey. Guides provide information regarding the environs and area history, and trip-takers typically find them friendly and entertaining. But the coastal scenery is the real reason for taking the boat ride and travelers find the natural surroundings strikingly beautiful. The 50-minute excursions depart from Fort Augustus, which is located on the southern end of Loch Ness. Tours are generally offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m., but additional times may be offered depending on the month. Tickets cost around 18 pounds (about $24) for adults and 11 pounds (roughly $14) for children 4 to 15. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board. Cruise Loch Ness also offers an hourlong evening cruise in the spring and summer.

Little Fish Tours – Old Town Tour

Little Fish Tours' walking excursion offers an overview of the city's architecture, history and folklore. Specific sights and topics may vary according to tour the guide's expertise, but usually include stops at the Mercat Cross, St. Giles' Cathedral , the Grassmarket, the National Museum of Scotland, the Greyfriars Bobby statue and the exterior of Edinburgh Castle . Guides are considered to be enthusiastic, passionate and knowledgeable about the city and its history. Tours, which depart from High Street, are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and last two hours. Tickets start at 14 pounds (about $18) for adults and 9 pounds (around $12) for kids and teens ages 5 to 15; children 4 and younger can join for free. The company also operates tours of Edinburgh Castle and a whisky tasting.

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Visit the picturesque town of Portree during a visit to the Isle of Skye with WOW Scotland.

WOW Scotland – The Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour

This excursion from WOW Scotland departs Inverness for a daylong bus trip to the Isle of Skye . During the approximately 12-hour tour, you'll see everything from quaint towns to natural wonders, such as the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools, to castles like Eilean Donan . The views invariably win enthusiastic plaudits for their beauty, while guides earn high praise for their energy and storytelling abilities. Reviewers describe it as a great trip overall. Tours, which start at 8:15 a.m., are typically offered daily, though availability may vary by season. Tickets start at 84 pounds (around $104) per person. Note that the tour is not recommended for children 5 and younger. Want to see more of the Isle of Skye? Check out WOW Scotland's multiday tours.

Tennent's Brewery Tour

When it comes to adult beverages, Scotland may be best known for its whisky, but don't overlook its beer. Tennent's Brewery Tour takes visitors inside Tennent's Wellpark Brewery, one of the best-known beer-making facilities in Glasgow. Tours start at the Tennent's Story Heritage Centre, which chronicles the centurieslong history of Tennent's Lager (and which can be visited even if you don't take the full tour). The guided tour shows how the beer is made today. Tours end, appropriately enough, with a pint of beer. Brewery visitors typically enjoy learning the local lager's history and find the guides rather adept. The 90-minute tours are offered several times a day Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets start at 12.50 pounds (about $16) per adult ages 18 and older; kids and teens ages 12 to 17 can tour for 9 pounds (about $11). Tennent's also conducts a Tennent's Heritage Walking Tour of Glasgow, among others.

Heart of Scotland Tours – Loch Ness & The Highlands

Marvel at the photogenic scenery of Loch Ness and the Highlands on this 12-hour bus tour, which is capped at 12 participants and departs from Edinburgh. Highlights along the way include Cairngorms National Park , Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis and Glencoe . Though the majority of the tour takes place on the bus, you'll enjoy several short walks at various stops and have the option to hop aboard a boat for a cruise on Loch Ness. Tourgoers describe the scenery as breathtaking and the guides as friendly, knowledgeable and entertaining. Tickets start at 50 pounds (around $62) for adults and 47 pounds (about $59) seniors 60 years and older and children and teens ages 5 to 17. Heart of Scotland Tours operates a variety of daylong and multiday excursions across the United Kingdom to top sights like Alnwick Castle, St. Andrews and Inverness, among others.

The Ghost Bus Tours – Edinburgh

Hop aboard this black double-decker bus to hear spooky stories about Edinburgh. Actors serve as guides on this 75-minute ride through the city, offering commentary as you drive by top sights like Edinburgh Castle, the Greenmarket, the Royal Mile, New Town and more. Tour-takers enjoy their trips and typically find the haunted tales an equal blend of creepy and funny. Tours depart from the Lawnmarket every day at 6 and 7:30 p.m. with additional 9 p.m. rides on Friday and Saturday. Tickets cost approximately 18 pounds (approximately $22) per adult, with discounts for seniors, students and children. The Ghost Bus also haunts the streets of London and York, England.

The Wee Food Tour

For a taste of distinctive Scottish fare provided by local purveyors, take the Wee Food Tour in Glasgow. Along the way, you could sample cheese, chips and haggis, visiting a total of six different shops and restaurants. Food enthusiasts praise the guides as passionate and knowledgeable about the city and its cuisine. The tour departs Wednesday through Saturday at 11 a.m. from the entrance to the Buchanan Street underground station. It lasts approximately four hours, with about 1 1/2 miles of walking. Tour tickets cost approximately $110 and include food as well as water and soda; alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately where available. As an added bonus, the Wee Food Tour donates 5 pounds (around $6.50) from each tour to a local food bank. The company also offers private tours.

Courtesy of Timberbush Tours

Take a visit to Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery with Timberbush Tours on its Ultimate Whisky Experience.

Timberbush Tours – Ultimate Whisky Experience

Timberbush Tours' Ultimate Whisky Experience spotlights Scotland's best-known adult beverage. First, the tour departs from Edinburgh to Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery, where you'll participate in a two-hour whisky and chocolate tour. You'll stop in the village of Aberfeldy for lunch then travel to Glenturret Distillery – Scotland's oldest working distillery – for your second whisky tasting. After a stop at Doune Castle, the tour returns to Edinburgh. Along the way, drivers serve as guides and offer commentary, which tour-takers tend to enjoy. Tickets for the tour start at 45 pounds (roughly $56) for adults and 43 pounds (approximately $53) for children, seniors and students. Fees are higher in peak summer months. Note: Whisky tastings and tours at both distilleries as well as lunch are not included in the ticket price. Tours, which last about 10 hours, occur Tuesday and Saturday. Timberbush Tours also conducts other sightseeing excursions from Edinburgh, as well as those that depart from Glasgow and Iverness.

Loch Ness by Jacobite – Temptation Tour

In addition to a 30-minute lake cruise, this tour includes visits to Urquhart Castle. Audio guides on board the boat offer tales about the region and its legendary Loch Ness monster. Visitors describe the castle as particularly impressive and the tour price as quite reasonable. Tours depart from the Inverness city center, where you'll board a coach bus to the lake. Tickets cost approximately 37 pounds (about $46) for adults and 27.50 pounds (around $34) for children, which covers transportation, entrance to the castle and the boat ride. Beverages and snacks are available for purchase separately. Overall, the excursion, which starts at 10:15 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. daily, lasts three hours. If you're only interested in cruising the lake, the company also offers tours that skip the castle visit.

Walking Tours in Glasgow – City Center Tour

Participants on this tour regularly call guides enthusiastic and informative, making the experience fun for travelers of all ages. The approximately 90-minute excursion takes visitors to some of the most celebrated spots in Glasgow, including George Square (where tours commence), the Necropolis , Glasgow Green and the River Clyde. During the stroll, guides share background regarding the city's history and key figures, including its patron saint, St. Mungo. Tours operate daily at 10:30 a.m. According to reviewers, tickets are a bargain; they cost about 12 pounds (around $15) per person. Children 11 and younger can tag along for free. Walking Tours in Glasgow also offers tours with various themes, such as street art and whisky.

HAGGiS Adventures – Lochs, Castles and The Kelpies

The first stop on this distinctively Scottish tour is Balmaha. This village sits on the shores of Loch Lomond and grants tourgoers exceptional views of Ben Lomond – one of Scotland's most popular mountains ( munros). In the afternoon, the tour heads to Stirling Castle, a former royal residence and fortress. The final stop is The Kelpies, which are a pair of nearly 1,000-foot-tall metal horse heads inspired by folkloric creatures of the same name. HAGGiS Adventures tour guides, who provide commentary throughout the day, are regarded as both professional and informative. Outings run on Monday, Wednesday Friday and Sunday during peak season (June through August) and on Friday and Sunday throughout the rest of the year. They depart Edinburgh around 8:45 a.m. and return to the city approximately nine hours later. Prices vary by time of year, but start at $75 per adult. The fee does not include entrance to the castle. HAGGiS Adventures also operates other daylong and multiday excursions, including an "Outlander" tour.

Courtesy of Eat Walk Edinburgh

During Eat Walk Edinburgh's Old and New Town Tour, you'll taste not only Edinburgh's great food, but also its spirits.

Eat Walk Edinburgh – Old and New Town Tour

If you're craving haggis, wild boar sausage, black pudding, smoked salmon and Scottish cheeses, this approximately three-hour tour is for you. Eat Walk Edinburgh's Old and New Town food tour takes travelers through the city to sample all these delicacies along with tastings of whisky, gin, wine and beer. Both the food samples and the guides routinely win high marks from patrons. The tours are offered at 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday and also at 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Tours run at noon on Sunday. Tickets cost approximately 69 pounds (or around $85) and include all food and drink. Groups are limited to eight people, who can opt to use headphones to hear their guide as they walk at their own pace between stops, which is generally deemed a nice bonus feature. Eat Walk Edinburgh also operates a food tour that explores the lower half of the Royal Mile, known as the Canongate.

Rabbie's – Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands – 1 Day Tour from Glasgow

This daylong tour celebrates Scotland's natural beauty, with visits to mountains, valleys, moors, woods and lakes. During the nearly 12-hour trip, you'll see Loch Lomond, the Glencoe Valley, Urquhart Castle, Ben Nevis and more. Drivers of the 16-seat vehicles double as guides, and they are generally deemed quite knowledgeable and amusing. Excursions Depart Glasgow around 8 a.m. daily. Prices, which vary by season, start at 57 pounds (about $71) for adults and 54 pounds (around $67) for kids and teens ages 5 to 15. Children younger than 5 are not allowed to tour. Rabbie's also offers tours of the Scottish countryside departing from Glasgow, as well as trips that depart from Edinburgh.

The Potter Trail

The Potter Trail shows curious readers the locations said to have inspired the "Harry Potter" books. During the approximately 1.25-mile walk, you'll explore the real-life Diagon Alley, see the cafe where J.K. Rowling wrote the first novel in the series and more. Fans of the books find the guides exceptionally knowledge about the iconic series and its author. Even those not familiar with the "Harry Potter" tales find this tour an informative introduction to Edinburgh. The family-friendly tours are available twice daily at noon and 4 p.m. from April through August and at noon only from September through March. Excursions typically last up to 90 minutes. There's no charge for this walk, though the guides happily accept contributions. The Potter Trail also offers private, fee-based tours for groups.

The Hairy Coo – 1-Day Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Ben Nevis Tour

According to reviewers, this tour offers a convenient and enjoyable way to see some of Scotland's most famous natural wonders in a short amount of time. On the daylong bus tour, you'll visit Glencoe, Loch Ness and plenty of villages and towns tucked into the Highlands, such as Fort Augustus and Callander. Along the way, you'll pass iconic sights like Ben Nevis and Stirling Castle. Tours are offered daily and depart from the Lawnmarket at 8 a.m.; they return to Edinburgh around 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at 48 pounds (about $60) per adult ages 18 and older and 41 pounds (around $51) for kids and teens between the ages of 7 and 17. Note that tour prices do not cover the cost of any food or drink or the optional boat cruise on Loch Ness. If you're up for more exploration outside of Scotland, consider the company's daylong tour to Alnwick Castle and the Northumberland Coast.

Once Upon a Whisky Tours – Glasgow's West End Whisky Tour

Whisky lovers will enjoy this tour of Glasgow's West End, which stops at four bars for samples of four award-winning single malt Scotch whiskies. Along the way, guides impart little-known facts and surprising trivia about the renowned beverage. Tour-takers report learning a great deal about whisky, how it's made and how best to enjoy it. Tours are available Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 4:30 to 7 p.m. It costs around 60 pounds (or about $74) to take the tour (nondrinkers will only be charged 30 pounds, or about $37); participants must be at least 18 years old. The price includes the whisky tastings but not food, which can be purchased separately at most of the establishments visited. Once Upon a Whisky also runs a whisky tour in Edinburgh.

Courtesy of Mercat Tours

Head beneath Edinburgh's streets with a trip from Mercat Tours.

Mercat Tours – Historic Underground

Mercat Tours' Historic Underground tours take patrons beneath Edinburgh and provide exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults, a system of caverns constructed in the 18th century. Guides explain how and why the vaults were built and how they came to be used. Reviewers say this walking tour offers an unusual perspective on the city and find the guides well-versed in Edinburgh's history. Tours, which last about 75 minutes, start at the Mercat Cross on High Street and conclude with a visit to the company's Discovery Room, which houses various artifacts as well as a model of the vaults. Tours depart three times daily at noon and 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets start at 20 pounds (about $25) for adults and 15 pounds (around $19) for children 5 to 15. Children younger than 5 may not tour. Mercat Tours also leads a number of other walks related to Edinburgh's history and lore, in addition to private tours.

Scotland's Wild Tours – Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Tour

Admire some of the country's most spectacular natural wonders on this eight-hour bus journey, which explores Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park – Scotland's first national park. Beyond viewing the mountains, valleys, lakes, waterfalls, flora and fauna from the seat of the bus, travelers also enjoy several hikes. Guides provide information regarding the geography, history and culture of the area, and they are generally regarded as both professional and personable by fellow travelers. The tour, which is limited to eight participants, is generally offered at 9 a.m. daily from April through October. Tickets cost approximately 59 pounds (about $73) for adults and 54 pounds (around $67) for children ages 12 to 15. Keep in mind, the minimum age to take the tour is 12. The tour departs from the village of Balloch, which sits about 20 miles northwest of Glasgow. The company also operates tours of Glencoe and the Highlands in addition to private tours.

Glasgow Gander Walking Tours

This walking tour of Glasgow leads participants to top destinations, such as Buchanan Street, the Glasgow City Chambers , Trades Hall, Merchant City, the Glasgow Cathedral and more. Travelers laud guides as highly entertaining and knowledgeable about the city's architecture, culture and history. Several reviewers also say this tour is a fantastic value. Tours depart from Royal Exchange Square near the Gallery of Modern Art (where the Duke of Wellington statue typically dons a traffic cone on its head) Wednesday through Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The approximately 1 1/2-mile jaunt usually last about three hours. Tickets cost 12 pounds (or about $15) per person.

City Explorers – Free Ghost Tour

Is Edinburgh haunted? Here's one way to find out. City Explorers' Free Ghost Tour explores the city's more fiendish history, as guides recount tales of infamous murders, witch trials, public executions and the like while traipsing through Old Town's cemeteries and dark alleyways. While some tour-takers say the expedition could be spookier, most agree that it is great fun and that the guides' storytelling is highly entertaining. The 90-minute walking tour takes place each evening at 7 p.m., starting outside the Copper Still bar. While there's no charge to take this tour, guides appreciate tips at the conclusion. City Explorers also offers a free tour of Edinburgh and a free "Harry Potter" tour, among others.

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• private tour of S...

private tour of Scotland

My husband and I are planning a trip to Scotland the beginning of September. We are looking to take between a 7 to 8 day private tour. Does anyone have suggests for tour guides.

Hi walsh2001

We toured fall of 2022 for 4 days with Inverness Day Tours & Inverness Custom Tours. They put together outstanding tours and our guide was a perfect match for us. We had a such a wonderful time that we are in the process of planning our next visit to Scotland, touring again with them for 12 days in the spring 2024.

https://www.invernesscustomtours.com/

https://invernesstours.com/

Although they are based out of Inverness they do collect guests from Edinburgh, Glasgow or wherever. Also, you will notice from their updated website Inverness Day Tours has been acquired by Inverness Custom Tours. Laura & Ian are lovely people to work with & we highly recommend them.

Here are the links to their TA reviews:

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186543-d1810928-Reviews-Inverness_Day_Tours-Inverness_Scottish_Highlands_Scotland.html

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186543-d12330621-Reviews-Inverness_Custom_Tours-Inverness_Scottish_Highlands_Scotland.html

Happy planning! Diane

Our neighbors used this website: https://personaltoursofscotland.com/your-scottish-tour-guides/

They mostly liked the guide but mentioned he had really horrible gas after eating.

We spent two days with Helen Fraser traveling out of Edinburgh. http://www.afternoonteatours.co.uk/ . You can see reviews here: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186525-d1575422-Reviews-Afternoon_Tea_Tours-Edinburgh_Scotland.html .

She is a lovely woman, passionate and well informed about Scotland. We spent about 3 hours as part of our travels with her in St. Andrews and it was terrific. She does do part and full day tours or even a full week should you want to go to Skye or someplace further afield.. She has great advice, great suggestions and works with you, offering advice, so you get exactly what you want. She picked us up at our hotel and dropped us back there a couple of days later. We really enjoyed her. I would encourage you to contact here ASAP through her website because very good and booked often go hand in hand.

I hope you enjoy Scotland as much as we did.

My husband and I went to Scotland in August and we went with a company called Private Tours Scotland.

They put together a great bespoke tour which included lots of beautiful places like Glencoe and the Isle of Skye. Our driver Bruce gave us lots of tips, historical information and even a ghost story or two!

https://privatetoursscotland.com

They booked our accommodation as well and selected some stunning properties. The Isle Of Eriska hotel is a must stay for anyone visiting.

My last bit of advice is to have afternoon tea at Edinburgh Castle, unbeatable views!

The original post was made in May, and OP’s visit was scheduled for September, so presumably they have already taken whichever tour they chose.

But the additional info might be helpful to others who are still planning a future trip! 🙂

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