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Scotland by Rail: Castles & Highlands

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Brenda Knapik, Travel Agent in Tucson, AZ

Brenda Knapik

Tucson, AZ Travel Agent
Super Agent

Brenda Knapik

Tucson, AZ · 3 Years of Experience

Winds in the East Travel, LLC, an independent agent with Winds in the East Travel, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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I reached out to Brenda to help with the planning of our first trip to St. Martin. She asked me some questions about the... Read More >
DESTINATIONS VISITED:Scotland
PLACES VISITED:Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness
SUGGESTED DURATION:13 Days
Discover the beauty of Scotland on this 12-day journey through Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow! Explore historic castles, stroll through charming cobblestone streets, and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, meet Scotland's famous Highland cows, enjoy traditional afternoon tea, sample authentic Scotch whisky, and ride the legendary Jacobite Steam Train, known as the Hogwarts Express. Scenic train journeys between cities make exploring Scotland part of the adventure! With a wonderful mix of guided excursions and time to explore on your own, you'll experience Scotland's history, culture, and natural beauty at a comfortable pace. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, this Scotland itinerary can be customized to your interests, travel style, and the experiences you've always dreamed of enjoying!
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DAY1
Edinburgh
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Welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland!
Welcome to Scotland! Upon arrival in Edinburgh, make your way to your hotel of choice and settle in. Today is all about getting comfortable after your travels and looking forward to the wonderful experiences ahead. No activities are scheduled, so you can relax and enjoy your first evening in Scotland at your own pace.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Princes Street Gardens.
Enjoy dinner at a Scottish Pub.
DAY2
Edinburgh
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Edinburgh & Scottish Tweed Handbag Workshop
Enjoy your first full day in Edinburgh! Spend the morning exploring the historic streets, browsing local shops, or stopping at a cozy café. In the afternoon, enjoy a unique Scottish experience with a hands-on Harris Tweed Handbag Workshop. You'll choose your favorite fabrics, colors, and finishing touches to create your very own mini satchel. I love including experiences like this in an itinerary because they offer something a little different from traditional sightseeing. Plus, you'll have a beautiful handmade souvenir to bring home!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Harris Tweed Handbag Workshop
DAY3
Edinburgh
Close Day
Highland Cows, Blackness Castle & Afternoon Tea
Today, head into the Scottish countryside for a wonderful combination of history, scenery, and local traditions! Begin with a visit to Blackness Castle, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the Firth of Forth. If you're an Outlander fan, you may recognize this castle as one of the show's filming locations. Next, visit a local farm to meet Scotland's famous Highland cows. These adorable, shaggy-haired animals are such a fun part of the Scottish experience! Finish your half-day excursion with traditional afternoon tea in a charming village before returning to Edinburgh. You'll still have part of the day to enjoy the city on your own.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Blackness Castle
Highland Cows
DAY4
Edinburgh
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Explore Edinburgh
Today is yours to explore Edinburgh, and there is certainly no shortage of things to see and do! Edinburgh Castle is one of the city's must-see attractions, and I recommend allowing at least two hours for your visit. From there, wander along the famous Royal Mile, visit St. Giles' Cathedral, and explore the colorful shops along Victoria Street. If you enjoy museums, the National Museum of Scotland is another wonderful stop. For beautiful views overlooking the city, consider visiting Calton Hill. One of the things I like about having a free day in Edinburgh is that you can explore at your own pace and spend more time at the places that interest you most.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile
St. Giles' Cathedral
DAY5
Edinburgh
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Edinburgh's New Town & Scottish Whisky Experience
Spend the morning discovering Edinburgh's New Town, known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, elegant squares, and interesting shops. In the afternoon, join a guided Scottish whisky walking tour. You'll visit three different whisky establishments, sample four single-malt Scotch whiskies, and learn about Scotland's whisky-making traditions from a knowledgeable local guide. Even if you're new to Scotch whisky, this is a fun way to learn about an important part of Scottish culture while discovering another side of Edinburgh. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guided Scottish Whisky Walking Tour
DAY6
Edinburgh
Close Day
Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Today is all about Scotland's beautiful countryside! Set off on a full-day guided excursion from Edinburgh to Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant castles. Take time to explore its fascinating history and enjoy the views from its hilltop location. Continue through the scenic landscapes of the Trossachs and Rob Roy country before visiting the beautiful Loch Lomond area. This is one of my favorite types of excursions to include because it combines Scotland's history with the breathtaking scenery that makes the country so special. And with transportation included in the tour, you can simply relax and enjoy the experience! Return to Edinburgh in the evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stirling Casle
Loch Lomond National Park
Kelpies
DAY7
Edinburgh
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Edinburgh Sightseeing & Evening Ghost Tour
Enjoy another day exploring Edinburgh at your leisure. Consider visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Scotland, or spend time exploring Princes Street Gardens and the historic Grassmarket area. In the evening, experience a completely different side of Edinburgh on a guided Ghosts & Ghouls walking tour! Wander through the atmospheric streets and narrow passageways of the Old Town before descending into the historic Blair Street Underground Vaults. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories of Edinburgh's mysterious and sometimes chilling past. The evening concludes with a Scottish drink and more storytelling. This is such a unique way to experience the city's history!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour
DAY8
Inverness
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Scenic Train Journey from Edinburgh to Inverness
Today, it's time to say goodbye to Edinburgh and head north to the Scottish Highlands! One of the things I love about this itinerary is that you can explore several beautiful areas of Scotland without having to rent a car. Make your way to Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, conveniently located in the city center, and board your train to Inverness. The journey takes approximately 3½ to 4 hours, depending on the service. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing scenery as you travel north through the Scottish countryside. Upon arrival at Inverness Railway Station, make your way to your hotel of choice and settle in. If you feel like exploring, take a leisurely walk along the River Ness or enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Scenic Train Journey from Edinburgh to Inverness
DAY9
Inverness
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Jacobite Steam Train & Scenic Scottish Highlands
Today is sure to be one of the highlights of your Scotland adventure! Depart Inverness on a full-day guided excursion through the spectacular Scottish Highlands. Travel toward Fort William, where you'll board the famous Jacobite Steam Train, often recognized as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films. The train travels along the scenic West Highland railway toward Mallaig, crossing the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct along the way. You'll enjoy views of mountains, lochs, and some of Scotland's most beautiful Highland scenery. Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or simply love scenic train journeys, this is a memorable experience and one I'd recommend including on a Scotland bucket list! Return to Inverness following your excursion.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Jacobite Steam Train
DAY10
Inverness
Close Day
Discover Inverness & Loch Ness
Today is yours to enjoy Inverness and the surrounding Highlands at your own pace. If Loch Ness is on your bucket list, this is a wonderful opportunity to visit! Consider an optional excursion to see the famous loch and explore the picturesque ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking the water. History lovers may enjoy visiting Culloden Battlefield or the ancient Clava Cairns. If you'd prefer a slower-paced day, spend some time exploring Inverness, browsing the shops at the Victorian Market, or taking a peaceful walk along the River Ness. I like including a free day here because there are so many interesting places to visit around Inverness, and everyone has different interests.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Culloden Battlefield
Urquhart Castle
Clava Cairns
DAY11
Glasgow
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Scenic Train Journey from Inverness to Glasgow
Today, your Scottish adventure continues as you travel south to Glasgow! Make your way to Inverness Railway Station and board your train to Glasgow Queen Street Station. This scenic journey takes approximately 3½ hours, depending on the service, and travels through beautiful countryside and charming Scottish towns. Upon arrival in Glasgow, make your way to your hotel of choice and settle in. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Glasgow is Scotland's largest city and offers wonderful restaurants, shopping, museums, and beautiful architecture.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guided Walking Tour of Glasgow
DAY12
Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow's History, Art & Culture
Spend your final full day in Scotland exploring Glasgow! If you enjoy history and architecture, consider visiting Glasgow Cathedral or the beautiful University of Glasgow. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another wonderful stop, with an impressive collection of art and historical exhibits. Admission to the museum's permanent collection is free. For shopping, explore Buchanan Street, or head to Glasgow's West End for charming cafés, independent shops, and restaurants. Glasgow has a different feel from Edinburgh, and I think experiencing both cities adds something special to this itinerary. Enjoy your final evening in Scotland with a wonderful dinner and time to reflect on all the places you've visited.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore Buchanan Street
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
DAY13
Glasgow
Close Day
Farewell, Scotland!
t's time to say goodbye to Scotland! Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel and making your way to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. No activities are scheduled today, allowing you the flexibility to plan your departure around your travel arrangements. I hope you leave Scotland with wonderful memories of its breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, charming cities, and unique experiences!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Airport - It is time to return home.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Scotland is such a beautiful destination and one for your bucket list! From breathtaking Highlands to historic castles and charming villages, there's so much to experience. This itinerary is a starting point. I'd love to help you make it your own!