Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern energy. Known for its stunning Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, the city is home to some of Scotland’s most iconic sights. The majestic Glasgow Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands as a testament to the city’s medieval past, while the nearby Necropolis offers atmospheric views and a unique insight into Victorian-era Glasgow. Art enthusiasts will love the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which houses over 8,000 works of art and historical artifacts. Another must-see is the Riverside Museum, where visitors can explore Glasgow’s rich industrial heritage and the development of transportation. For fans of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a visit to the Mackintosh House at the University of Glasgow is a journey into his unique design style, which shaped the city’s architectural landscape. Glasgow’s lively music and nightlife scenes are equally enticing, with venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut hosting performances from local and international artists. To experience Glasgow’s green side, a stroll through the sprawling Glasgow Green or the Botanic Gardens offers peaceful retreats from the city bustle. Whether it’s history, art, or live entertainment, Glasgow offers a dynamic experience for all visitors.
The Best of Scotland
8 Days
Aye, Scotland is full of wild heath covered landscapes, haunting bagpipe music, romantic castles and distinctive kilts. However, it’s also the land where golf began and where some of the finest whiskies are blended. Gritty Glasgow is as well known for its art as for its urban environs and Edinburgh is full of intrigue with its narrow passageways and layered history concentrated in one mile of the old city.
Highlights
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Visit the cottage of Robert Burns, Scotland's favorite poet
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Cruise Scotland's famous lochs
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Visit the home of golf – St. Andrews
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Enjoy a Scottish Banquet of traditional food and bagpipe music
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - 3
International Arrival
Travel by motor coach to your hotel in Glasgow
2 Nights
Glasgow
Included activities
DAY 1: Arrive in Glasgow
Upon arrival at Glasgow airport, collect your luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall. A representative will be there to meet you and direct you to your motor coach. After boarding we will take a city tour, passing the monuments in George Square, the Royal Concert Hall and Glasgow Cathedral: a magnificent medieval structure built in the 14th century. This afternoon there will be an opportunity to visit the Burrell Collection, a private collection of over 9000 works of art that was donated to the City of Glasgow. This evening we will enjoy a welcome drinks reception followed by evening dinner together.
DAY 2:
This morning after breakfast we will travel south along the Ayrshire coast and into poet Robbie Bur's country, where we will visit Burns Cottage in Alloway where you can walk in the footsteps of Tam O'Shanter in Alloway's "auld haunted kirk" and across auld Brig O'Doon, where Tam's mare, Meg had her narrow escape from the witches. We continue on to the 18th century Culzean Castle, which overlooks the Atlantic coast. Part of this Castle was gifted to General Eisenhower who resided here during his presidency and retirement on several occasions. We return to Glasgow for your included dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 - 5
Transfer by private bus to Inverness, visit Loch Ness and distillery tour en route
2 Nights
Inverness
Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, offers visitors a blend of rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture. Sitting on the banks of the River Ness, the city is home to the impressive Inverness Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. While the castle itself is closed to the public, visitors can explore its grounds and enjoy the stunning outlooks of the Highlands and the river. A stroll along the Ness Islands provides a peaceful escape, with picturesque footbridges and wooded pathways that lead visitors through one of Inverness’s most serene spots. For history enthusiasts, Culloden Battlefield, located just outside the city, is a must-visit. This is where the last battle on British soil took place in 1746, and today, it features a visitor center with interactive displays that bring the battlefield's dramatic past to life. Book lovers will want to visit Leakey’s Bookshop, a treasure trove of rare books housed in a converted 18th-century church. Additionally, a short drive takes travelers to Loch Ness, where they can search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster or enjoy a cruise on its mysterious waters. Whether it's exploring history or soaking in the natural beauty of the Highlands, Inverness offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Included activities
DAY 3: Arrive in Inverness
After breakfast we head to Glengoyne Distillery where you will be welcomed with a wee dram of Scottish whiskey followed by a tour of the distillery. Continue into the sample room where you will learn the art of being a master blender, then before leaving you will have the opportunity to create your own special blend to bring home. We continue on to the "Bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond" where we will stop for a short cruise on this famous Loch. So much myth, legend and history precedes a visit to the expanse of Glencoe and Loch Leven, that many visitors are unprepared for the sheer beauty and breathtaking serenity of this vast sweeping pass. We will pass Urquhart Castle, a stronghold on a rocky peninsula overlooking Loch Ness, where we will stop for pictures. Continuing on to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands and our hotel tonight, we will enjoy an evening dinner together.
DAY 4:
After a leisurely breakfast we visit a local kilt maker where we can learn all about the famous tartans (plaids) and then continue to Dunrobin Castle where we will enjoy a tour of the castle. In the afternoon we will enjoy a wonderful exhibit of Peregrine falcons and eagles that are native to Scotland. This afternoon take the time to explore Inverness with its suspension bridges across the River Ness, old stone buildings and Ben Wyvis soaring above the skyline. This evening after your included dinner you are free to enjoy the local pubs and nightlife.
Day 5 - 8
Travel by private coach to Edinburgh
3 Nights
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland's captivating capital, is a city brimming with history, culture, and architectural beauty. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, the city offers sweeping views and a deep dive into Scotland’s royal past. Visitors can explore the castle’s ancient halls, including the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, before wandering down the historic Royal Mile—a cobbled street that stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. One of Edinburgh's most scenic spots is Calton Hill, where panoramic views of the city's skyline and the Firth of Forth unfold. Art lovers can visit the Scottish National Gallery, home to an impressive collection of European masterpieces, while history buffs will be drawn to the National Museum of Scotland, where diverse exhibits cover everything from Scottish archaeology to natural history. For literary enthusiasts, a stroll through the city's winding streets reveals locations tied to famous authors like J.K. Rowling, whose Harry Potter series was partly inspired by Edinburgh’s enchanting atmosphere. The city’s vibrant festival scene, including the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, adds a lively cultural layer, making Edinburgh a must-visit destination for history, art, and adventure lovers alike.
Included activities
DAY 5: Arrive in Edinburgh
Leaving the Highlands behind us, we travel southward where we visit a Scottish shepherd at work with his faithful sheepdog. We continue our drive to ancient St Andrews, home of Royalty and birthplace of golf. Here we will stop to enjoy one of Scotland's favorite foods: fish & chips. See St Andrews University; founded in 1413 – it is the oldest university in Scotland! There will be time in the quaint village of St. Andrews, which is full of traditional Scottish craft shops, pubs and restaurants, or perhaps you will prefer exploring the ruins of St Andrew's Cathedral. We then travel to the imposing city of Edinburgh and our downtown hotel. Tonight you are free, why not round the evening off in one of the many pubs & wine bars?
DAY 6:
This morning's tour takes us along Princes Street with its fine shops and through the lovely Georgian squares and terraces of the new town. We continue along the historic Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of Her Majesty the Queen. Our tour concludes at Edinburgh Castle where we will enjoy a hearty Scottish lunch in the castle before we view the Scottish Crown Jewels and take in the breathtaking views of the city from the castle ramparts. This evening we will enjoy a wonderful dinner at Edinburgh Castle.
DAY 7:
This morning after breakfast we will travel south to the Scottish Borders where we will visit a section of Hardrian's Wall. Built by the Romans this ancient wall was once intended to keep the uncivilized Scots out of England. We return to Edinburgh visiting the 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel along the way; this chapel is only one section of the church that was originally intended to be built. Rosslyn was most recently featured in the Da Vinci Code film. This evening enjoy an optional farewell Scottish Banquet where you can sample some haggis and enjoy traditional bagpipe music, songs and dancing.
DAY 8:
This morning we transfer to the Edinburgh airport with ample time to check your luggage and board your flight back to the USA.
Transfer to the Edinburgh airport
International Departure
Inclusions
Includes
- View the Burrell Collection with over 9,000 works of art
- Visit to Rosslyn Chapel
- Accommodations: Glasgow 2 nights, Edinburgh 3 nights, Inverness 2 nights
- Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
- Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
- English speaking assistants and guides
- Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary