tour of glenfiddich distillery

Glenfiddich Distillery

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 wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Glenfiddich Distillery - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Glenfiddich Distillery

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.

GLENFIDDICH DISTILLERY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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A Visit to One of Scotland’s Last Family-Owned Whisky Distilleries

The bucolic speyside region is home to glenfiddich, where scotch whisky is a story of water and wood, patience and people..

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Glenfiddich has more than 30 copper stills.

Photo by Robert Ormerod

On a warm summer morning in Speyside, Scotland , I walked along a gravel path at the base of the Conval Hills, listening for the sound of the Robbie Dhu spring. I stopped to ask for directions from a local passing by, who pointed up the nearest hill: “Go that way,” he said. “Keep climbing, the spring will be on your left.”

As I walked, first I heard a trickle, then a gentle rush of water. I marched off the path and found a splintered wood staircase that led down to the banks of the spring. It looked overgrown and treacherous.

Through wildflowers I finally caught a glimpse of water flowing over stones—the very water that, downstream, becomes a key ingredient of Glenfiddich, the world’s best-selling single-malt Scotch whisky.

Left: the distillery’s architecture mirrors its picturesque surrounds; right: At Glenfiddich, whisky is served in a special glass known as a Glencairn.

Glenfiddich is one of about 50 distilleries in Speyside, including other well-known makers such as Macallan and the Glenlivet. Glenfiddich produced its first batch of whisky on Christmas Day in 1887. Today, the distillery produces more than 14 million liters of whisky annually, enough to fill five Olympic-size swimming pools. And for the past 133 years, the Robbie Dhu spring has been the distillery’s only water source. Even at peak production in the hottest summers, the spring has never run dry.

“Water defines how the distillery operates,” malt master Brian Kinsman told me later. “If we were to try to replicate the Glenfiddich process with another water source, the whisky would change,” he said. “Water is fundamental.”

That afternoon, I stepped inside the distillery to learn how the spring water becomes whisky. The first thing I detected was a strong, oatmeal-like aroma. Ian Millar, the former Glenfiddich distillery manager and my guide for the day, explained that I was smelling the mash, a thick mixture of ground, malted barley and spring water. (Single-malt Scotch whisky is always made from barley, not from cereal grains such as corn or wheat, which are used in blended Scotch whisky. Single malt also refers to whisky made by a single distillery.) Millar led the way deeper into the distillery, and we peered into the mash tuns, 10-ton vessels where powerful blades transform the mash into a sugar-rich liquid called wort. In the next room, I caught a glimpse of wooden fermentation vats known as washbacks. After the wort cools, it’s pumped into these vats to ferment for 72 hours. The result is a low-alcohol liquid known as a wash, which is similar in potency to a strong beer.

Jason Taylor is one of Glenfiddich’s in-house coopers (craftspeople who repair barrels).

Distillation comes next. I followed Millar into the stillhouse, where we stood in the shadow of stout copper stills with long necks, listening to their steady hum. He explained that after two distillations, the new spirit has reached its full strength and is ready for aging. Glenfiddich ages its single malt in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 years. “Wooden casks are responsible for up to 65 percent of the final flavor,” he told me.

We left the still house and walked through towers of casks to reach the cooperage, a warehouse alive with the sound of hammering and the smell of smoke. Glenfiddich is unusual in Scotland for continuing to operate an on-site cooperage, where skilled craftspeople repair casks that once held sherry, bourbon, and rum. In the cooperage, workers roll casks from station to station, replacing the metal rings that hold barrels together and toasting the interiors over an open fire to bring out a caramelized note in the wood. Millar told me to stick my nose in a barrel, and I bent down to breathe in the scent of charred wood and a sweeter note, like a mix of brown sugar and bourbon.

And then it was time for me to taste. We sat outside at a picnic table and Millar poured my first dram, Glenfiddich 18, then added a couple drops of water. “Water opens it up, ice closes it down,” he explained. The first mouthful of the dark, golden spirit was remarkably smooth, its complex flavors bringing to mind baked apples and toffee. A common misconception about Scotch whisky is that it’s smoky, but there are regional variations, and Glenfiddich is fruity, often compared to a green pear. It has a subtle sweetness, a pleasant viscosity, and no burn in the throat.

The blending room where malt master Brian Kinsman works

Blending, the process of marrying spirits from different casks to make the perfect single malt, is the final step of whisky-making. And that’s where Kinsman’s nose comes in. Between blending and checking in on maturing stock, Kinsman often noses 100 whiskies a day—and he spends much of his time in the Blending Room, a laboratory-like space overlooking the distillery. Inside, I got to put my own nose to the test: Millar tasked me with re-creating a 15-year-old Glenfiddich using only my sense of smell. I sniffed Kinsman’s version, then used beakers filled with three different single malts to try to match the original’s aroma. Millar didn’t even need to taste it; we kept sniffing, swirling, and adjusting until the balance lined up and he gave a firm nod of approval.

The last leg of my Scotch whisky immersion took me to the warehouses. Glenfiddich has dozens of buildings where nearly 1 million barrels of Scotch whisky are aged. Inside Warehouse 12 it was silent, dark, and several degrees cooler than outside. I noticed a barrel stamped 1958; it has been resting in this place since before Hawaii was a state. Throughout the day, my nose had sniffed out the oatmeal of barley mash, the smoke of the cooperage, and my very own whisky blend. Now it was finally hovering over a cask of Scotch whisky that began as water in the nearby hills more than 60 years ago. Millar removed the stopper from the top. I leaned down to the opening and inhaled.

Glenfiddich produced its first batch of whisky more than 130 years ago.

Know Your Scotch Whisky

If you want to go to a dinner party and sound like you know what you’re talking about, here are the basics. Scotch whisky must be made and matured in Scotland, it can’t be less than 40 percent ABV (or alcohol by volume, which measures the strength of a spirit), and it must be aged in oak casks for a minimum of three years. Single-malt Scotch whisky is always made from barley (not from corn or wheat, which are used in blended Scotch whisky) and must be distilled in copper stills. Need a stat for that dinner party? Only 1 percent of single malt in Scotland is aged for more than 20 years. (Most Glenfiddich single malts are 12, 15, and 18 years old.)

When it comes to savoring whisky, malt master Brian Kinsman has some unusual advice. “At home, you pour yourself a whisky and the obvious thing to do is drink it,” he says. “But instead, try nosing it for long periods. Smell it again after a few drops of water. Take the time for the whisky to open up, to appreciate it for aroma first.”

How to Visit

The Glenfiddich distillery is open every day and offers four different tours. Each tour includes an exploration of the distillery, but they differ in experiences and tastings. The two-hour Spirit of Innovation Tour, for example, includes a tasting of five Glenfiddich single malts ($39). To make your own whisky, sign up for the 2.5-hour Solera: Deconstructed Tour ($65). Or skip the tours and taste a Scotch whisky flight at the on-site Malt Barn restaurant and bar. Travelers can also taste rare whiskies, but be prepared: A dram—that’s about an ounce—of 1958 single malt goes for about $1,080. Reservations for tours are recommended.

>>Next: Signature Cocktails From Around the World That You Should Definitely Try at Home

Glenfiddich Distillery Visitor Centre

Glenfiddich kept single malt alive during the dark years. The distillery is big and busy, but the handiest for Dufftown, and foreign languages are available. The 90-minute standard tour (£10) starts with an overblown video, but it's fun and informative. An in-depth half-day Pioneer's Tour (£95) must be prebooked.

Get In Touch

01340-820373

https://www.glenfiddich.co.uk

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GLENFIDDICH DISTILLERY TOUR

Glenfiddich distillery tour.

EXPLORE GLENFIDDICH DISTILLERY WITH WHISKYWHEELS

The Glenfiddich distillery tour is one of the most popular whisky tours in Scotland and always makes up one of the distillery stops on our fantastic whisky tours in Speyside.

Based in Dufftown, Glenfiddich is the most successful family owned single malt distillery in the world and the world’s best-selling single-malt whisky. Furthermore, the Glenfiddich whisky recently became the most awarded at the International Spirits Challenge

As is the case with many Scottish whiskies, the Gaelic word ‘Glen’ which means valley, has been used with another local place name or folklore, with ‘Fiddich’ which translates to ‘valley of the deer’. Making ‘GlenFiddich’ well known the world over for generations.

Family run for over 130 years, by the Grant family, Glenfiddich has been a fine ambassador for quality Scottish whisky in all corners of the globe.

Many of our guests are from out-with the UK and there is usually a keen interest in the Glenfiddich distillery tour. The tour at the Glenfiddich distillery encourages guests to learn about the history and the hard work behind a brand they recognise and love. After touring the quaint and historic distillery, our customers’ have the chance to taste a few of the drams with a local whisky expert.

Glenfiddich has managed to keep it’s traditional processes and distillery charm. When you take their tour, you will find copper tuns, impressive washbacks and stone warehouses where the magic of maturation happens.

A range of tours are offered throughout the year, all led by expert guides and featuring a masterclass tasting of at least four different malts. Glenfiddich Distillery also offers a beautiful gift shop and its converted Malt Barn is a fantastic place to sit by the fire and enjoy lunch, or sample your favourite dram from the well-stocked bar.

Another option that we offer at Glenfiddich is time for tastings and lunch in their excellent malt barn. This will usually take place before a Glenfiddich distillery tour, but we can also offer Glenfiddich as your lunch stop for the day which gives you the chance to taste some excellent local produce and of course, sample some whiskies.

The excellent Glenfiddich shop is a great place for souvenirs, collectors’ items, the full core whisky range and distillery exclusive whisky. A fantastic new addition to the shop is the option to create your own personalised bottle.

We currently offer the chance to do a Glenfiddich distillery tour on our Whisky Trifecta Tour, our Speyside Delight Tour and Taste of Scotland Tour. Alternatively, custom tours available also. Plenty of options for a great Glenfiddich distillery tour.

For bespoke bookings or for more information, please contact [email protected]

We provide bespoke whisky tours in Scotland.

07549 839 684 (UK)

+19299230210 (USA)

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP

[email protected]

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Glenfiddich Distillery Tour

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Glenfiddich

Situated in the whisky town of Dufftown, the Glenfiddich Distillery is home to the world’s most-awarded single malt. The distillery was founded in 1886 by William Grant and is currently run by the fifth generation of his family. Together with his 9 children and a single stonemason, Grant began building his distillery by hand. After a year of work, the distillery stills began production on Christmas day 1887. Grant named his new distillery ‘Glenfiddich’, which is Scots Gaelic for Valley of the Deer.

Glenfiddich produces a range of single malt whiskies and in 1963 became the first distillery to sell single malt scotch whisky outside of Scotland. The distillery continues to push the boundaries of innovation in whisky making today.

Retaining its historic character and charm visitors to Glenfiddich Distillery will discover tall copper tuns, great wooden washbacks and stone-walled warehouses filled with earthy, aged aromas.

A range of tours are offered throughout the year, all led by expert guides and featuring a masterclass tasting of at least four different malts. Glenfiddich Distillery also offers a beautiful gift shop and its converted Malt Barn is a fantastic place to sit by the fire and enjoy lunch, or sample your favourite dram from the well-stocked bar.

Guided exhibition, highlights tour & tasting

Our expert guiding team will lead you through the exhibition, exploring over 130 years of pioneering innovation and independent spirit at Glenfiddich. Following a tour of Stillhouse 2 and Warehouse 1, you can enjoy a tasting of 12 year old, 15 year old, 18 year old and 21 year old Glenfiddich.

Tours available Wednesday to Sunday from 9:30 to 5:30 with last tour departing at 3:30. 

We have a range of measures in place to protect our guests and site.

Booking for tours and the Robbie Dhu Terrace is advised. Please email [email protected] or call the Visitor Centre on +44(0) 1340 820 373

Cost: £20 per adult – courtesy drivers’ tasting packs are available.

Opening Hours

We’re just half a mile (0.8km) north of Dufftown, where our founder William was born

The Glenfiddich Distillery Dufftown Banffshire AB55 4DH

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Clan Grant Visitors

Glenfiddich Distillery, Dufftown

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Glenfiddich distillery is a Speyside whisky distillery in the glen of the River Fiddich, Dufftown, Scotland, owned by William Grant & Sons.

William Grant was born on 19 December 1839 in his father’s house in Dufftown. At seven he began herding cattle at a farm on the upper reaches of the River Deveron. He was apprenticed to a shoemaker then worked as a clerk, and then became a bookkeeper at Mortlach distillery 1866. There he was appointed as a clerk and then manager and learned the distilling trade.

After about twenty years, Grant left his job at the Mortlach distillery and bought a field near Balvenie Castle. He then drew up plans for his first distillery, and the foundation stone was laid in the autumn of 1886.

In 1887 on Christmas Day the first distillation took place at the Glenfiddich Distillery.

The distillery went on to be one of the most successful in the world.

In the 1920s, with prohibition in force in the USA, Glenfiddich was one of a very small number of distilleries to increase production. This put them in a strong position to meet the sudden rise in demand for fine aged whiskies that came with the repeal of prohibition.

Grant remained active in the company until his death in 1923 at the age of 83.

Some archive footage entitled The Water of Life from the 1970’s describes the establishment of the Glenfiddich Distillery and the whisky making processes used can be viewed here .

the still trippers

visiting distilleries across the globe

Glenfiddich Distillery

Visit #4, September 22, 2015

Founded in 1886 by William Grant and sons, Glenfiddich is one of the few remaining distilleries to remain family-owned.  You could feel the pride in this from our tour guide.  This is quite amazing since they are such a large producer of single malt Scotch and since 2000 they have received more awards than any other single malt Scotch whisky in both the International Wine & Spirit Competition and the International Spirits Challenge.  We took the Explorers Tour, one of three tours that are available at Glenfiddich.

The water that sources the world’s best-selling single malt whisky is the Robbie Dhu spring.  100 tons of barley a day are used and this is taken down to 9 1/2 tons during processing.  They use two mills for grinding the barley and two mash tuns that hold up to 60,000 liters each.  The three water sparges in the mash tun are at 68 degrees, 75 degrees and 86 degrees.  41,000 liters of mash are converted into wort and then cooled in a heat exchanger before being sent to fermentation.  Glenfiddich uses 32 washbacks made of Douglas Fir for fermentation.  It was an interesting note that they use the high branch line of the Douglas Fir (over 17ft) for their washbacks.  Fermentation takes approximately 72 hours and produces a wash of 9.6% ABV.

There are two still buildings at Glenfiddich containing a total of 28 stills.  The life of their stills is between 8 1/2 to 9 1/2 years and they use gas heating, not coils.  Once the wash stills have started to produce the condensed, cleaned-up spirits, the first 1/2 hour comprises the head or the foreshots and this is then taken to be redistilled.  The heart, or the runoff with the proper high percentage of alcohol, runs for about 2 1/2 hours at 21% ABV.  This tail or the feints are the last runoff and they last for about 1/2 hour and are redistilled.  The low wines (heart) is then heated and condensed again in the spirit stills.  Glenfiddich has two differently shaped spirit stills, one that is a pot belly where vapor spirals up and the other which is a witches hat or lantern where the vapor goes straight up.  The heart from this new distillation will produce a ‘new make’ spirit of about 70% ABV.

Glenfiddich houses its own onsite cooperage where the coopers build and char new casks and do repairs as needed.  They store 1 million barrels and casks among 46 warehouses.   Amerian oak and Spanish Oloroso oak casks are used.   We visited one warehouse with a marrying tub where spirits of 85% bourbon and 15% sherry were being married.   Here also is where Glenfiddich uses the Solera process for its 15-year old whisky.

Our Explorers Tour ended with a tasting of four Glenfiddich whiskies.  The first taste was the 12-year old which is comprised of 85% bourbon casks and 15% sherry casks.  The second taste was the 14-year old Rich Oak, also a mix 85% bourbon casks and 15% sherry casks.  The third taste was the 15-year old Solera Unique Reserve.  The last and my favorite was the 18-year old which is comprised of 80% bourbon casks and 20% sherry casks.

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Whiskey tours in Scotland

Freeze motion of man hand pouring whisky shot. Vintage interior of village barn. ()

The term “whiskey” comes from the Gaelic words, “uisge beatha,” meaning literally, “water of life.” It is believed that the phrase has even older roots from medieval Latin from the phrase, “aqua vitae .” No matter the word’s origin, it has laid its roots and found its home across the world; perhaps, most famously in Scotland.

The oldest reference to whiskey in Scotland dates back to the 13th century. Today, there are almost 150 whiskey distilleries in Scotland spread across five “whiskey-producing” communities: Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside . If you want to take a tour of a distillery, here are a few of our favorites.

Location : Tain, Highland Region     

History : Beginning in 1843, the Matheson family began selling their whiskey for a few shillings per gallon. They named their whiskey “Glenmorangie” which is a Gaelic word meaning “Valley of Tranquility.” Today, they are one of the most famous Scotch distilleries and have the tallest copper stills in all of Scotland which help create their renowned whiskey .

Tour Information : Tours last one hour, cost 20 pounds per person and you receive two drams for tasting at the end of the tour. You can book the tour in advance online at glenmorangie.com/visit-us/distillery-tours . 

           April-May: Monday – Friday | hourly | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

           June-August: Monday – Sunday | every 30 minutes | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

           September-October: Monday – Friday | hourly | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

           November-March: Monday – Friday | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Location : Dumfries & Galloway. Lowland Region

History : Bladnoch Distillery dates back to 1817 when Thomas and John McClelland were granted a license to distill whiskey. It is known as the “Queen of the Lowlands .” Today it boasts a state-of-the-art visitor center, gift shop and café.

Tour Information : The distillery offers two tours which you can book in advance at bladnoch.com/pages/visit-bladnoch-distillery .

Classic Tour and Taste | 60 minutes | Tuesday-Saturday | 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. | 20 pounds per person | 14+

1817 Tour | 120 minutes | Tuesday and Friday | 11:30 a.m. | 50 pounds per person | 18+

Location : Banffshire, Speyside Region

History : The first stones for the distillery were laid in 1886. Today, Glenfiddich remains one of the oldest family-owned Scotch whiskey distilleries.

Tour Information : Glenfiddich offers two tours that you can book in advance at glenfiddich.com/en-gb/book-tour . The tour route contains multiple sets of steep stairs. If you have mobility requirements contact [email protected] for accommodations.

Distillery Tour | 90 minutes | Wednesday-Sunday | 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. | 25 pounds per person

Glenfiddich Solera: Deconstructed Tour | 150 minutes | Thursday and Saturday | 2 p.m. | 75 pounds per person | 18+

Location : Bruichladdich, Islay Region

History : This distillery is one of the newest ones to be built in Islay. In 2005, it was the first distillery built in Islay in over 120 years. It is a family-owned business and today is “Islay’s only Single Farm Single Malt Scotch Whisky .”

Tour Information : Kilchoman offers three tours that you can book in advance at kilchomandistillery.com/book-distillery-tour .

           Classic Tour | 60 minutes | Monday- Friday | 1:30 p.m. | 10 pounds per person

Roving Tasting | 90 minutes | Monday- Friday | 2:30 p.m. | 25 pounds per person | 18 +

Limited Edition Tasting and Tour | 120 minutes | Monday- Friday | 11 a.m. | 40 pounds per person | 18+

Location : Perthshire, Highland Region

History : The Glenturret whiskey dates back to 1793 and is Scotland’s oldest working distillery. It has changed names and owners several times since its inception and The Glenturret name began to appear sometime in the 1800s. In 1991, the distillery welcomed its one-millionth visitor .

Tour Information : The distillery offers three different tours. Book your spot at theglenturret.com/pages/book-a-tour .

           The Glenturret Tour | 60 minutes | 18 pounds per person

           Lalique Whisky Flight | 90 minutes | From 53 pounds per person

           Whisky Maker’s Tour | 120 minutes | 100 pounds per person | 18+ only

To find more distilleries in any region, click here for an interactive map by Visit Scotland.

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Unlock the Best of Scotland: Your 72-Hour Glorious Guide

I f there’s one thing to know about Scotland, it’s that 72 hours isn’t nearly enough time to take in this epic country and its variety of experiences. Nevertheless, we found ourselves with approximately three days to do exactly that and we definitely made the most of it. As one might expect, we weren’t able to visit certain cities or entire regions so we’ll throw them on our bucket list for next time (here’s looking at you, Islay). Until then, may our little travel guide offer you a glorious glimpse into this unique and incredible nation.

Table of Contents

Where we visited in scotland.

Our brief journey through Scotland spanned multiple cities and towns and made up part of a broader UK-based experience. We ended up cramming an impressive amount of activity into a 72-hour window but easily could have spent twice as much time in any given area, which isn’t to mention all the other areas we would have liked to visit. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Flew into the city of Aberdeen and drove to Dufftown.
• Spent the night in Dufftown and drove back to Aberdeen the next day.
• Spent the night in Aberdeen and took the train to the city of Edinburgh the next day.
• Spent the night in Edinburgh and took the train to London the next day.

Located in the historic Speyside region, Dufftown—aka ‘The Malt Whisky Capital of the World’—reportedly produces more whisky than any other burgh in Scotland. Visitors come from near and far to visit a bounty of distilleries, including Mortlach, Glenfiddich , Balvenie , and others. Fun fact: a number of these distilleries take their names directly from geographical areas and landmarks. For instance, Glenfiddich was founded in the glen (i.e. valley) of the River Fiddich.

The drive into Dufftown from Aberdeen is almost exactly what someone would expect if they’ve ever heard anything about Scotland. Picture green hills filled with grazing sheep and cattle, rolled haystacks dispersed across dry farmland, and the occasional stone cottage and you get the idea. Should you be coming in from a city, the landscape provides a welcomed respite from any urban hustle and bustle.

Eat – Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge

If you’re hoping to grab a delicious meal in Dufftown, this semi-private whisky lounge and restaurant would be the place to do it. Within a restored building, chef and co-owner Patrick draws from French and Scottish influences to whip up a menu of culinary delights. An adjoining whisky lounge and its impressive selection round out the one-of-a-kind experience.

Drink – Quaich Whisky Bar at The Craigellachie Hotel

Just a few minutes outside of Dufftown is the small village of Craigellachie, home to both the namesake distillery as well as Speyside legend The Macallan. It’s also where one will find ‘Scotland’s oldest whisky hotel,’ wherein lies the historic Quaich Whisky Bar. To enter this cushy domain is to spoil yourself silly with a selection of over 1,000 single malts from around the world.

Stay – The Highlander Inn

This modest inn across the street from The Craigellachie Hotel is more affordable and understated by comparison. Yet what it lacks in sophistication it makes up for in terms of authentic experience. Book a room upstairs and head down to the bar to discover another smorgasbord of whisky, including mega-rare expressions that you probably won’t find anywhere else. And when we say anywhere else, we mean anywhere else .

Do – Take a Tour of the Glenfiddich/Balvenie Distilleries

In an era where virtually every major distillery is owned by a massive conglomerate, Glenfiddich and The Balvenie make for brilliant exceptions. Founded by William Grant & Sons over a century ago, both distilleries are still family-owned and operated to this day. They also happen to sit right next to each other, allowing one to take two separate tours without leaving the general area.

At Glenfiddich, past and future collide by way of an operation that’s firmly committed to tradition while also continuing to expand. Over at The Balvenie, meanwhile, painstaking craftsmanship goes to superlative extremes (for example, they’re among the few whisky-makers that still perform their own floor maltings). Separately or together, the distilleries take up enough acreage to render the impression of a full-blown campus. No trip to Dufftown is complete without a stop here.

After an unforgettable experience in Dufftown and its surrounding environs, we cruised back to Aberdeen. Unfortunately, we arrived late in the day, spent the night on the outskirts of the city, and then disembarked the next morning. But we’ll be damned if we can’t throw out a few solid suggestions for any future travellers.

Stay – Maryculter House

Perched on a river bank and across from a golf course, Maryculter House has the unique power to make time stand still. This is the kind of hotel where a brass key gets you into your spacious room and where you’re always close to an epic view. Grab a delicious meal, sip on whisky, take in the surroundings, chat with strangers in the courtyard, and prepare to remember your stay for a long time to come.

Do – Take the Train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

The train ride from Aberdeen to Edinburgh clocks in at about two hours and twenty minutes and frequently runs adjacent to the Scottish coastline, thereby offering no shortage of breathtaking views. It’s a seamless and comfortable ride that brings the country further into focus by way of land, sea, and quaint village alike.

And now for the main attraction! Voted by Time Out as the “best city in the world” in 2022, Edinburgh blows your mind from the moment you arrive. In any given direction is visually sumptuous and historic architecture, which doesn’t so much blend with the modern businesses as much as it does swallow them whole. Yes, you’ll find plenty of contemporary shops, bars, restaurants, municipalities, and businesses, and yet the centuries-old vibes persist via the clock towers, churches, castles, and cobblestones.

Speaking of castles, they’re so high in number that to visit them all would take up an entire day (if not more). Given that we were on a time crunch, we regrettably didn’t visit a single one and, therefore, didn’t include any in our guide. But based on reputation alone, landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are surely worth checking out should you have the time.

So what did we do during our brief stay? Drank plenty of whisky, naturally. We also enjoyed an incredible dinner and toured a local distillery, amongst other things. Here are some suggestions.

Eat – Wedgwood the Restaurant

You wouldn’t expect Scotland to deliver one of our best dinner experiences in recent memory, but that’s exactly what we encountered at this fine dining establishment. The team of Paul and Lisa Wedgwood combines local ingredients with global influences to redefine Scottish cuisine for the modern era, bringing in an expertly curated wine selection and all-hands-on-deck service. We opted for a seasonal tasting menu and left no bite behind, as to do so would be to miss out on some truly spectacular flavours. We can’t recommend this restaurant highly enough.

Drink – The Waverley Bar

Edinburgh is absolutely littered with high-quality whisky bars so it’s hard to isolate one over the others. But if you’re looking for a nice selection at good prices in a no-frills setting, The Waverley Bar in Old Town easily fits the bill. It’s located just a short walk uphill from the Royal Mile, the area’s main thoroughfare.

Do – Take a Tour of Holyrood Distillery

If we told you there was just a single whisky distillery operating in all of Edinburgh, we wouldn’t blame you for Googling it to be sure. That distillery goes by the name of Holyrood and it’s so new that its most- anticipated output is still resting in the barrel. That debut single malt is right around the corner and its arrival is called…well…Arrival. In the meantime, they’ve been churning out a fantastic selection of gin, vodka, and new-make spirit (i.e. young whisky).

Do – The Scotch Whisky Experience

If you love whisky not just for the taste but for everything from the history to the bottle designs and more, then The Scotch Whisky Experience belongs on your list of things to do. It goes down near Edinburgh Castle and offers whisky-themed tours and tastings as well as an acclaimed restaurant. Oh, and did we mention it’s also home to one of the world’s largest bottle collections?

Stay – Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian

By Waldorf standards, this one on Princes St. is relatively affordable but still predictably luxurious. It’s also right next door to the Johnnie Walker Experience, which we visited —and absolutely loved—on a previous trip. When in Rome, drink whisky.

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• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
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• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
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• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

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• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

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• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
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Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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The R&K Guide To Moscow

The World Cup is upon us, but you could argue that it’s already a relic from another era, a time when Putin was looking for peaceable engagement with the West, before he annexed Crimea and unleashed his trolls on the world. But if ordinary Russians are supposed to play the part of pariah, they haven’t been told. It has been a long time since Moscow was this pleasant to visit. The city center is safe, sanitized, ready for your visit. Yes, the calm is a sign of an increasingly efficient autocracy. But we’ve known Moscow through many iterations, and for the casual visitor, this is one of the best yet. (Visit our St. Petersburg guide here.)

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WORLD’S MOST AWARDED SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY*

FIND YOUR WHISKY - Our Collection

Find your whisky, find your whisky, collections, welcome to our home.

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Learn about the history of Glenfiddich

Discover our family of maverick whisky makers, explore the whisky making process.

Winter lays snow on hills rising over pagoda roofs. Summer colours local fields barley-gold. All year round spring water bubbles in the glen. As alive as that day in 1886 when our founder William laid the first stones that built one of the oldest family-owned Scotch whisky distilleries. Join us at Glenfiddich, in the Valley of the Deer.

Time matters when whisky making. So, while touring the distillery, you’ll visit our original warehouse where you will explore the generations of gently maturing casks. You’ll also learn how we achieve depth and consistency of flavour throughout our range of exceptional whiskies. Then, a tasting of several single malts awaits. Please be aware that the tour route has multiple sets of steep stairs. If you have mobility requirements, please email [email protected] and we will do our best to accommodate you on a flat tour route accessing the Mash House, Still House (weather permitting) and Warehouse. Unfortunately the Tun Room (fermentation) is inaccessible.

Available Wednesday - Sunday

from 9.30 with the last tour departing at 3.30PM

From 13th May 2024 until 31st August 2024

Tours will be available 7 days a week from 09:30.

VISIT THE DISTILLERY

The Distillery Gift Shop is open 7 days a week 10.30 am – 5pm.

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Theatres in Moscow

Cultural life of Moscow city is various and rich! Operas, ballets, symphonic concerts... Russian composers have created some of the most beautiful classical music. Russian classical music is very popular in Moscow. It is performed in many beautiful historical venues. Do not forget to include a visit to a concert hall in your itinerary when you are planning your stay in Moscow! And do it in advance.

There are almost no restrictions on dress code in Russian theatres. Visitors may wear jeans and sports shoes, they may have a backpack with them. Only shorts are not allowed.

A typical feature of Russian theatre – visitors are bringing a lot of flowers which they present to their favorite performers after the show.

Here are some practical advices where to go and how to buy tickets.

The Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the oldest, the most famous and popular opera and ballet theatre in Russia. The word “Bolshoi” means “big” in Russian. You can buy a ticket online in advance, 2-3 months before the date of performance on the official website . Prices for famous ballets are high: 6-8 thousand rubles for a seat in stalls. Tickets to operas are cheaper: you can get a good seat for 4-5 thousand rubles. Tickets are cheaper for daytime performances and performances on the New Stage. The New Stage is situated in the light-green building to the left of the Bolshoi's main building. The quality of operas and ballets shown on the New Stage is excellent too. However, you should pay attention that many seats of the Bolshoi’s Old and New Stages have limited visibility . If you want to see the Bolshoi’s Old Stage but all tickets are sold out, you can order a tour of the theatre. You can book such a tour on the official website.

If you want, following Russian tradition, to give flowers to the performers at the end of the show, in the Bolshoi flowers should be presented via special staff who collects these flowers in advance.

In August the Bolshoi is closed.

The Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theatre

This theatre is noteworthy. On one hand, it offers brilliant classical opera and ballet performances. On the other hand, it is an experimental venue for modern artists. You can check the program and buy tickets online here http://stanmus.com/ . If you are opera lover, get a ticket to see superstar Hibla Gerzmava . The theatre has a very beautiful historic building and a stage with a good view from every seat. Tickets are twice cheaper than in the Bolshoi.

The Novaya Opera

“Novaya” means “New” in Russian. This opera house was founded in 1991 by a famous conductor Eugene Kolobov. Its repertoire has several directions: Russian and Western classics, original shows and divertissements, and operas of the 20th and 21st centuries. It is very popular with Muscovites for excellent quality of performances, a comfortable hall, a beautiful Art Nouveau building and a historic park Hermitage, which is situated right next to it. You can buy tickets online here http://www.novayaopera.ru/en .

Galina Vishnevskaya Opera Center

The Opera Center has become one of the best theatrical venues in Moscow. It was founded in 2002 by great diva Galina Vishnevskaya. Nowadays its artistic director is Olga Rostropovich, daughter of Galina Vishnevskaya and her husband Mstislav Rostropovich, great cellist and conductor. Not only best young opera singers perform here, but also world music stars do; chamber and symphonic concerts, theatrical productions and musical festivals take place here. You can see what is on the program here http://opera-centre.ru/theatre . Unfortunately “booking tickets online” is available in Russian only. If you need help, you can contact us at and we can book a ticket for you. 

Tchaikovsky Concert Hall and The Great Hall of Moscow Conservatory

These are two major concert halls for symphonic music in Moscow. Both feature excellent acoustics, impressive interior, various repertoire and best performers. You can check the program here http://meloman.ru/calendar/ . You need just to switch to English. Booking tickets online is available only for owners of Russian, Ukrainian and Belorussian phone numbers. If you need help, you can contact us and we can book a ticket for you. 

Moscow International Performing Arts Center (MIPAC)

This modern and elegant concert hall houses performances of national and foreign symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles, solo instrumentalists, opera singers, ballet dancers, theatre companies, jazz bands, variety and traditional ensembles. Actually, it has three concert halls placed on three different levels and having separate entrances. The President of MIPAC is People’s Artist of the USSR Vladimir Spivakov, conductor of “Virtuosy Moskvy” orchestra. You can see pictures of the concert halls here http://www.mmdm.ru/en/content/halls . The program is impressive in its variety but is not translated into English. You can contact us at and we can find a performance for you.

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Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

Duration 3 days

Price from USD $730 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Sightseeing

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Home / Moscow Tours / Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

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This short Moscow tour will give you a true taste of the history, culture and incomparable urban vibe that define one of the world’s largest metropolises. In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we’ve set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures

3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

• Panoramic Tour of Moscow: See Moscow beyond the postcard images on a private excursion by car through the city streets including a drive along the banks of the Moskva River. Visit the famous Bolshoi Theatre, pass by Gorky Park and the Novodevichy Convent, and admire the city from on high at the Sparrow Hill observation platform.
• Moscow Historical City Centre Guided Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises and discover local haunts on foot, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and the multi-coloured domes of St Basil’s Cathedral.
• Armory Chamber tour: Explore the endless treasures of this unique museum, displaying the wealth accumulated by Russian rulers from the 12th century until the October Revolution of 1917. Walking through the exhibition halls is a journey through the centuries.
• Moscow Metro Tour : Go deep underground on a subway tour of the famous Moscow metro. The world’s deepest metro system is renowned for its palatial, art-adorned stations, complete with marble columns and chandeliers.

On your first day, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, drive-by tour of Moscow to get a feel for the immense scale of one of the world’s most rapidly developing urban centres. The city’s history unfolds in real-time as you pass lavish imperial mansions, solemn Soviet structures and luxurious modern shopping centres.

Day two kicks off exploring Moscow’s historic centre on foot, followed by a tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russian power and political intrigue for centuries. Stand in the Red Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture as you hear stories of the people and events behind many of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks.

On your final day, we’ll head beneath the city for a tour of the Moscow Metro and its famously ornate underground stations. Art lovers should hit up one of Moscow’s many world-class galleries such as the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum or Garage, Moscow’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. History fans can follow a Soviet trail through the city including Stalin’s Bunker, while those seeking a more indulgent experience can browse trendy neighbourhoods like Kitay Gorod or shop for everything from fashion to kitsch souvenirs at the enchanting Izmaylovo Flea Market. Foodies can head to one of the countless speciality stores sampling vodka, caviar and chocolate.

If you only have a few days to spend in Moscow, this tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city. Let the experts navigate you through this complex and occasionally overwhelming capital, giving you plenty of time to soak up the city’s most unmissable attractions.

Accomodation

Not Included

Sightseeing

Action rating ?

Type of tour

3 days / 2 nights

Private - Any Date

Day 1 Panoramic city tour

Welcome to the glorious capital of Russia, Moscow! You’ll be met by your driver at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel.

After check-in and rest, meet your private guide at the hotel lobby for a comprehensive tour of Moscow by car. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre, pass Tverskaya Street, the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Day 2 Red Square and Kremlin

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the historical city centre. Stroll through the Red Square, the hub of cultural life in Moscow, with its elaborate ‘stone flower’ fountain and fantasy-like St Basil’s Cathedral – a postcard-perfect symbol of the nation. Admire the grandiose façade of GUM, the city’s most luxurious shopping centre, and visit Alexander’s Garden, with its eternal flame and the chance to watch a changing of the guards.

Break for lunch before continuing on a tour of the Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous of its collection of tsarist fashion, with regalia such as jewel-encrusted crowns, orbs and sceptres as well as arms and armour, exotic gifts from the leaders of faraway lands, and an illustrious case of Imperial Faberge eggs.

As an option* spend an evening on a sumptuous dinner cruise, taking in the stunning sights and city lights of this mesmerising metropolis by night.

Day 3 Metro and Arbat Street

Start a day with a tour of Metro, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Take a stroll along Old Arbat street - the most famous street in Moscow. Through the centuries Arbat used to be one of the most bohemian places in Moscow. Today Arbat is a promenade full of small cozy cafes and street life.

The afternoon is free for you to either enjoy the rest of the day on your own or choose among optional excursions to explore more of Moscow. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin State Museum to admire Russian art. Join locals for a stroll at the Gorky or VDNH park.

Visit beautiful Kolomeskoye Estate or Izmailovo Kremlin, or spend a day exploring the beautiful city of the Golden Ring (Russian province) - Sergiev Posad. In the evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure to your next destination.

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Group airport/train-station arrival and departure transfers

All transportation according to the itinerary with a private driver

4* hotel accommodation in the historical city center (twin/double)

Local licensed English-speaking guide

All activities, indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry fees according to the itinerary (skip-the-lines policy)

Russian visa support document

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here .

Optional excursions/activities

*Private tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

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Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

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The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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From USD $730

Day 1: Panoramic city tour

Day 2: red square and kremlin, day 3: metro and arbat street, not included, start planning your tour.

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