Scotland tours discovery guide
The distinctive drone of bagpipes. The stoic stateliness of hilltop castles. The fresh tingle of the wind wisping off the ocean. Trips to Scotland satisfy the senses in every way—what better way to delight in it all than by diving in with a guided tour?
What to know before you go
POPULATION
Scotland’s population clocks in at roughly 5.5 million people, but the global diaspora dwarfs that figure. (Upwards of 20 million people of Scottish descent live in the U.S. alone.)
CULTURAL QUICK TAKE
Scotland’s national animal isn’t the Highland cow, nor is it the enigmatic golden eagle. It’s the unicorn—a symbol of purity, power, and innocence in Celtic mythology.
WHEN TO GO
Summer might draw a crowd, but we’d suggest booking Scotland tours during the shoulder seasons. Spring and fall strike a lovely balance between milder weather and fewer tourists.
WHAT TO GO FOR
What’re you most interested in? You’ll come across medieval cities, castles galore, the Highlands’ epic expanses, and some of the nation’s 140-plus distilleries on our trips to Scotland. Speaking of...
LET’S TALK SCOTCH
The country produces more whisky (note the missing “e,” which the Irish and Americans add) than any other, exporting 43 bottles of Scotch globally every second.
Take your pick of these Scotland tours
Wherever your interest lies—history, landscapes, urban culture—there’s a Scotland tour designed to indulge it (and then some).
Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland
Follow stories of clan leaders and royals through imposing fortresses.
Explore the 10-day itineraryScotland: Oban, the Highlands & Edinburgh
Soak in Scotland’s natural glory, from hilly cities to sleepy islands.
Explore the 15-day itineraryScotland Solo: The Highlands & Aberdeen
Come under Scotland’s spell in the company of brand-new friends.
Explore the 10-day itineraryScotland & the Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Celebrate Scotland’s heritage, culture, and military traditions.
Explore the 10-day itineraryInspiration for your Scotland escape
Have your sights set on Scotland but don’t know much more than that yet? Consider our tips for solo travel, can't-miss scenery, and more reasons (and ways) to go.
The solo traveler’s guide to Scotland
Where to go. What to do. Why deep-fried Mars bars are such a hit. Gear up for our Scotland tours with a little help from one of our very own staffers.
12 Scottish landscapes you need to see
The U.K.’s largest national park and a famed crossing aboard the Hogwarts Express both make the cut. See them—and the rest of our picks—on our Scotland tours.
Sprinkle these signature experiences into your Scotland itinerary
Whether you visit in bustling summer, quiet winter, or sweet-spot shoulder season, these add-ons will deepen your ties to bonnie Scotland and its people.
Jump into a traditional céilidh
Enjoy a night of song and dance on our Landscapes of Scotland: Oban, the Highlands & Edinburgh tour.
Sip afternoon tea in regal surroundings
Enter Holyrood Palace for a one-of-a-kind outing on our Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland tour.
Breathe in a peaceful moment
Roam the ruins of Melrose Abbey on our Scotland & the Edinburgh Military Tattoo tour.
Discover the heart of Scottish independence
Explore the siege-hardened childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots on our Scotland for Solo Travelers tour.
What travelers are saying about our guided Scotland trips
5 out of 5 stars
8th-time traveler Connie
This tour had it all: a mix of castles, palaces, cuisine, lochs, highlands, farmlands, livestock, music, dance, bagpipe lesson and great conversations with very friendly and...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Scotland for Solo Travelers: Highlands, Aberdeen & Edinburgh
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Gail
This solo tour was just what I needed! There was history everywhere. Robert was so knowledgeable about every region. Our driver, John, was #1. Anyone who might be nervous about...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Scotland for Solo Travelers: Highlands, Aberdeen & Edinburgh
5 out of 5 stars
3rd-time traveler Anonymous
I have to say the trip was amazing. Our tour director Cornelius was very witty and kept all laughing. Our bus driver Paul was fantastic. All I can say is that all yours and...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Anonymous
This tour was amazing. Nick our guide was extremely knowledgeable and answered questions whenever they were asked. He made sure we all were aware of the agenda, where and when we...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Suzanne
First of all, I need to let you know that Tom is the best tour guide in the world. He was so a tune to everyone in the group notice what they could do and what they couldn’t do...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Scotland for Solo Travelers: Highlands, Aberdeen & Edinburgh
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Sandra
We began our tour in gloomy historic Glasgow led by an energetic, enthusiastic tour director, Cornelius Weber. He showed us the City Center highlighting the Medieval Cathedral and...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Janet
I had a fabulous time in Scotland. I was a little nervous going by myself as solo travel but immediately felt welcomed. Tom, our tour Director, was awesome. He always had some...
Traveled in Sep 2024 on Scotland for Solo Travelers: Highlands, Aberdeen & Edinburgh
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Travel tips for Scotland trips
The best time to visit Scotland depends on your travel preferences. It’s a destination that can be enjoyed in any season, so our tours there run year-round.
Despite being very far north, the Scottish climate is fairly temperate. Winters—while still chilly—are much warmer than locations on similar latitudes, and comparable to the East Coast of the U.S. Summer is mild and pleasant, making it a popular time to visit Scotland. In the summer, you’ll also find the days are very long, which means you’ll have plenty of time for exploring. In Edinburgh in June, the sun doesn’t set until around 11pm. Spring and fall are also great times for visiting Scotland, when seasonal changes bring bursts of beautiful color to the Highlands and crowds are smaller at the most popular sites.
A few of our Scotland tour packages are specially designed to take you to the heart of local events, so you can experience unique cultural moments firsthand. In August, you can attend the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to view performances by the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth, and international military bands. Or, travel on a special trip in October to join revelers for Halloween night at the Samhuinn Fire Festival. Both of these local events occur right in Edinburgh, and when you travel with us, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to these distinctly Scottish celebrations.
If you’re planning on booking one of our Scotland travel packages, you may already have a few places you’d like to see in mind. Popular stops include the capital of Edinburgh, the city of Glasgow, the Scottish Highlands, and Loch Ness. (Just keep your eyes peeled for the mythical Loch Ness monster while you’re there!) Our trips cover all the best places to visit in Scotland—and include special sightseeing tours and activities that give you a closer look at the local culture. If you’re interested in visiting the country, one of our expert Tour Consultants can help you narrow down your perfect itinerary.
Scottish cuisine has historically relied on readily available ingredients, so game meats, dairy, and seafood all play an important role. Haggis, a savory pudding made with sheep’s innards, is Scotland’s national dish and is probably the meal most often associated with Scottish food. Bangers and mash (sausage and potatoes), fish and chips, and smoked salmon are also favorites on Scottish dinner tables—and we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the country’s world-famous whisky.
While traditional cooking is still prevalent across the country, you’ll also find plenty of restaurants serving elevated European-style dishes as well as international cuisine. Ask your Tour Director for suggestions—they’re sure to know the best local spots—and enjoy included meals that reflect Scottish flavors on all our guided tours of Scotland.
No matter when you plan on visiting Scotland, you’ll want to have your rain boots and umbrella handy. The weather at any time of year is notoriously changeable, and rain showers are common, so it’s best to be prepared! Layers are also a good idea as evenings can be quite cool, even in summer. Depending on the time of year, you may also want winter wear such as gloves and a hat.
Once you’ve booked one of our tours of Scotland, you’ll receive more detailed information to help you get ready for your trip. You can also download the Go Ahead Tours mobile app to have all your getting-ready-to-go information right on your smartphone. That includes a detailed packing list you can check off so you don’t leave anything behind!
We recommend spending at least 10 days in Scotland, which should give you ample time to explore the highlights of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the Highlands. To add the islands and other cities like Aberdeen and Inverness to your itinerary, extend your stay to at least 14 days.
Scotland uses the pound sterling. To stock up on local currency, order some from your bank before you go, or use your debit card at an ATM once you arrive. For tips on using the pound while on a trip to Scotland, check out our article on currency exchange.
English is the nation’s main language, and you’ll hear it throughout your Scotland travel. However, the country also has three other official languages: Gaelic, traditionally spoken in the Highlands and on the islands; Scots, an English-like tongue traditionally spoken in the Lowlands; and British Sign Language.
Although unpredictable, the country’s weather is fairly temperate. Year-round temperatures rarely dip below freezing or rise into the 70s, and showers are common, so be sure to pack some rain gear for our Scotland tours.