Scotland’s Grand Tour is a legendary journey that has captivated travellers for centuries. Long before there were railways, early 19th‑century visitors embarked on “grand tours” to discover rugged glens, haunting castles and vibrant cultures. In our modern era, you can still relive this romance through a variety of itineraries. Luxury trains like the Royal Scotsman whisk guests through spectacular scenery while self‑drive routes thread ancient roads past standing stones and whisky distilleries. Television programmes such as Grand Tours of Scotland have further fuelled the dream, showcasing the Highlands that have charmed visitors for over 200 years.
This guide brings together insights from our leading tour operators. You’ll discover how to piece together the ultimate grand tour, whether aboard a world‑class train or behind the wheel. We’ll outline day‑by‑day Scotland highland tour itineraries, seasonal planning tips, luxury accommodation advice and answers to frequently asked questions. Along the way we’ve highlighted noteworthy traditions such as the Highland Games and even suggest a chauffeur service from Inverness to these events.
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Why Take a Grand Tour of Scotland?
A Grand Tour isn’t just a checklist of locations, it’s about experiencing the Highlands in depth. On one epic trip you can:
- Travel through mythic landscapes, from the Isle of Skye’s dramatic cliffs to Orkney’s Neolithic villages.
- Taste Scotland’s whisky heritage in distilleries around Speyside and the Isles.
- Immerse yourself in history at castles like Eilean Donan, Dunrobin and Dunnottar and ancient sites such as the Standing Stones of Stenness.
- Enjoy first‑class service aboard a luxury train or plan a flexible self‑drive to explore at your own pace.
- Meet local people and learn about Gaelic culture on the Hebridean islands.
Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or returning to Scotland, this extensive itinerary reveals hidden corners and famous icons, ensuring the longest and most engaging travel guide online.
Choosing Your Grand Tour Style
Luxury Rail: The Royal Scotsman Grand Tour
If you dream of travelling in Edwardian‑style comfort, consider the Royal Scotsman Grand Tour, a seven‑night journey celebrating 40 years of this iconic train. Departing from Edinburgh in late August, the itinerary explores the Orkney Islands, Isle of Skye, Royal Deeside, St Andrews, Loch Lomond and even includes distillery visits. Guests enjoy 24‑hour steward service, all meals (full Scottish breakfast, two‑course lunches and three‑course dinners) and evening entertainment. Day‑by‑day highlights include:
- Day 1: Depart Edinburgh, enjoy afternoon tea as the train heads north via Perth and Blair Atholl to Boat of Garten; dine aboard with live music.
- Day 2: Tour Glenmorangie Distillery in Tain and the Dunnet Bay distillery, sampling whisky, gin and vodka.
- Day 3: Ferry to Orkney to explore Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar and other Neolithic sites before returning to the train.
- Day 4: Spend a day on the Isle of Skye; options include outdoor adventures or a guided sightseeing tour around Kilt Rock, the Quiraing and Dunvegan Castle.
- Day 5: Visit Crathes Castle, explore Royal Deeside villages such as Braemar and Ballater.
- Day 6: Stop in St Andrews and the coastal village of Elie, dine at the historic Ship Inn.
- Day 7: Cruise Loch Lomond and tour Drumlanrig Castle before a gala dinner.
- Day 8: Return to Edinburgh after breakfast.
The Royal Scotsman is Scotland’s poshest train and often books out months in advance; ticket prices for 2026 start at around £28,700 per cabin.
Independent Rail & Ferry: 15‑Night Train Odyssey
A 15‑night Grand Tour of Scotland by Train, combining rail journeys with ferries. Unlike the Royal Scotsman, this is a self‑guided itinerary with two‑night stopovers for more leisurely exploration. Highlights include:
- The West Highland Line from Glasgow to Oban via Loch Lomond and the ruins of Kilchurn Castle.
- A group excursion to the Isles of Mull, Staffa and Iona, where you can visit Fingal’s Cave and Iona Abbey.
- Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct on a scheduled train and taking ferries to the Isle of Skye, staying in Portree.
- A guided tour around Skye’s Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Dunvegan Castle and Fairy Pools.
- Time in Inverness, Orkney, the Cairngorms and lesser‑visited corners of the Highlands.
This itinerary appeals to travellers who want to experience famous rail routes like the Jacobite steam train and still have freedom to explore off‑train. The 15‑night trip is usually offered between April and October and includes selected accommodation and some guided excursions.
Self‑Drive Odyssey: 17‑Day Grand Tour Itinerary
For maximum flexibility, a self‑drive grand tour lets you set your own pace, stop at hidden gems and linger wherever you wish. VisitScotland’s 17‑day suggested itinerary offers an inspiring blueprint:
Day 1: Edinburgh Arrival
Make your way to your hotel in Edinburgh’s city centre. Spend the afternoon exploring the Royal Mile and UNESCO‑listed Old and New Towns, or step inside Edinburgh Castle.
Day 2: Scotland’s Dramatic East Coast
Pick up your rental car and head to Fife. Visit the village of Falkland, famous for its Palace and Outlander filming locations, and then St Andrews, home of golf. Continue north via Dundee and the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, and don’t miss Dunnottar Castle perched on cliffs above the sea. Overnight in Aberdeen. Driving distance: ~235 km / 145 mi.
Day 3: Royal Deeside & Castles
Follow the Deeside Tourist Route through Cairngorms National Park. Explore Crathes Castle and Balmoral Estate, the royal family’s Scottish residence. Reach Speyside, famous for whisky distilleries, and overnight in the Inverness area. Driving: ~240 km / 150 mi.
Day 4: Journey to Orkney
Drive north through Caithness, stopping at Dunrobin Castle, then take the ferry from Scrabster to Stromness (1.5 hours). Stay in Kirkwall, the Viking‑era capital. Driving: ~205 km / 130 mi.
Day 5: Wonders of Orkney
Spend a full day exploring Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Heart of Neolithic Orkney including Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe. Overnight in Kirkwall. Driving: ~56 km / 35 mi.
Day 6: North Coast 500 to Ullapool
Return to the mainland via ferry. Follow part of the North Coast 500, Scotland’s famous road trip, with golden sand beaches and views of mountains and sea. Stop at Smoo Cave and Ardvreck Castle before reaching Ullapool. Driving: ~250 km / 150 mi.
Day 7: Gaelic Culture on Lewis
Take the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis (2.5 hours). Visit the Calanais Standing Stones, the Black Arnol Museum and experience Gaelic culture. Overnight on Lewis and Harris. Driving: ~165 km / 100 mi.
Day 8: Harris and the Golden Road
Drive south through Harris along the Golden Road, admiring lunar‑like landscapes and white sand Luskentyre Beach. Overnight again on Harris. Driving: ~70 km / 45 mi.
Day 9: Island Hopping to Skye
Catch the ferry from Tarbert to Uig on Skye (1 h 40). Explore the Trotternish Peninsula, Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, Kilt Rock and Fairy Glen. Stay overnight near Portree. Driving: ~80 km / 50 mi.
Day 10: Western Skye
Discover Skye’s western side. Tour Dunvegan Castle, stroll along Claigan Coral Beach and visit Neist Point, Skye’s westerly headland. Overnight on Skye. Driving: ~130 km / 80 mi.
Day 11: The Magic of Skye
Spend another day on Skye. Hike to the Fairy Pools, admire the Black Cuillin mountains or sample whisky at the Talisker Distillery. Overnight on Skye. Driving: ~160 km / 100 mi.
Day 12: The Beauty of Loch Ness
Return to the mainland via the Skye Bridge. Stop at Eilean Donan Castle before driving along Loch Ness. Visit the Loch Ness Centre or Urquhart Castle, or take a boat tour. Spend the night in Fort William. Driving: ~260 km / 160 mi.
Day 13: Journey to Mull
Take the ferry from Oban to Craignure on Mull (45 min). Tour Duart Castle and drive scenic coastal roads to colourful Tobermory. Overnight on Mull. Driving: ~180 km / 115 mi.
Day 14: Isles of Iona and Staffa
Spend the day as you wish on Mull: explore more of the island or take a short ferry to Iona to visit the abbey and beaches, and a boat trip to Staffa with its basalt columns and sea cave. Overnight on Mull or in nearby Oban. Driving: ~180 km / 115 mi.
Day 15: Kilmartin Glen and Loch Lomond
Return to the mainland and take a scenic drive through Kilmartin Glen, home to one of Europe’s richest concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments. Continue via Inveraray to Loch Lomond and overnight in the Trossachs. Driving: ~245 km / 150 mi.
Day 16: Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
Drive through the national park back to Edinburgh. Optional stops include a steamship cruise on Loch Katrine, a tour of Deanston Distillery, Doune Castle, Stirling Castle or the modern Kelpies sculptures. Overnight in Edinburgh. Driving: ~130 km / 80 mi.
Day 17: Departure
Spend your final morning shopping on Princes Street, visiting one of Edinburgh’s museums or simply enjoying a stroll through the Georgian New Town before heading to the airport.
Customised Chauffeur‑Driven Tours
For travellers seeking a bespoke experience without driving or navigating public transport. It’s even possible to hire a private chauffeur from Inverness to attend the Highland Games, a comfortable option if you plan to incorporate an August games day into your itinerary. This service provides door‑to‑door transport, local commentary and flexible schedules so you can relax and enjoy whisky tastings or ceilidh evenings without worrying about driving.
Practical Planning: When to Go & How Long
- Duration: A comprehensive grand tour typically lasts 10–17 days. Luxury train itineraries run 7 nights, while self‑drive tours can extend to three weeks.
- Best months: Late spring to early autumn (April–October) offers longer daylight and milder weather; August combines festivals and Highland Games. Winter tours exist, but some ferries operate reduced schedules and certain attractions close.
- Driving vs train: If you love independence and remote detours, self‑drive is ideal. If you prefer not to drive, consider the train‑and‑ferry option or the Royal Scotsman for all‑inclusive luxury.
- Accommodation: Choose from boutique hotels, country lodges, cosy B&Bs and castle stays. Booking well ahead (6+ months) is essential, especially for summer and train journeys.
Grand Tour Route Map
Below is a simplified representation of the self‑drive grand tour, listing major stops and distances. Adjust the route to match your interests or travel dates.
| Stage | Route Highlights | Approx. Distance |
| Edinburgh → Aberdeen | Falkland, St Andrews, Dunnottar Castle | 235 km |
| Aberdeen → Inverness | Royal Deeside, Speyside whisky trail | 240 km |
| Inverness → Orkney ferry | Dunrobin Castle, Scrabster ferry | 205 km + ferry |
| Orkney loop | Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall | 56 km |
| Scrabster → Ullapool | North Coast 500, Smoo Cave | 250 km + ferry |
| Ullapool → Lewis & Harris | Ferry to Stornoway, Callanish stones | 165 km + ferry |
| Tarbert → Skye (ferry) | Golden Road, Luskentyre Beach | 70 km + ferry |
| Skye loop | Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Pools | up to 160 km |
| Skye → Fort William | Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness | 260 km |
| Oban → Mull (ferry) | Duart Castle, Tobermory | 180 km + ferry |
| Mull → Oban | Iona, Staffa boat trip | 180 km |
| Oban → Loch Lomond | Kilmartin Glen, Inveraray | 245 km |
| Loch Lomond → Edinburgh | Trossachs National Park, Stirling | 130 km |
Traditions & Events: Highland Games
If your trip coincides with summer, attending a Highland Games offers a window into Scottish culture. These one‑day festivals blend sport, music and community; events include caber toss, hammer throw, tug‑of‑war and Highland dancing. Games take place from May to September across Scotland, with peak season in July and August. Some of the most notable gatherings for 2026 include:
- Inverness Highland Games (July 11).
- Braemar Gathering (first Saturday in September), historically attended by the British monarch.
- Pitlochry Highland Games (September 12).
Travellers staying in the Highlands during these events can arrange tickets in advance. If you prefer not to drive, a chauffeur service from Inverness provides a stress‑free way to enjoy the games and sample whisky afterwards without worrying about transport.
Tips for a Successful Grand Tour
- Pack layers: Scotland’s weather can change quickly, even in summer. Bring waterproof jackets, warm layers and comfortable walking shoes.
- Book ferries and accommodation early: Island ferries and small hotels fill up fast.
- Be flexible: Allow extra time for detours, photo stops and weather delays.
- Learn local history: Listening to tour guides or reading about clans and battles enhances sites like Culloden or Skara Brae.
- Respect local communities: Drive carefully on single‑track roads, support independent businesses and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Grand Tour go to Scotland?
The term “Grand Tour” originally referred to 17th‑ and 18th‑century aristocratic journeys through Europe. Scotland’s first recorded grand tour is linked to King Malcolm III, who in the 11th century organised competitions and races at Braemar that evolved into today’s Highland Games. Modern organised tours began in the 19th century when rail travel opened up the Highlands and travellers sought romantic landscapes celebrated by poets and artists.
Who has the best tour of Scotland?
The “best” tour depends on your travel style. For luxury and ease, the Royal Scotsman train offers an all‑inclusive experience with gourmet dining and private cabins. For flexibility and immersion, VisitScotland’s 17‑day self‑drive route allows you to linger at sites like the Isle of Skye and Orkney
Which Grand Tour episode is set in Scotland?
British television series The Grand Tour (produced by Amazon) filmed part of its “Lochdown” special in Scotland during 2021, featuring road trips through the Highlands. However, in this blog the Grand Tour refers to the broader travel concept rather than the TV show. The BBC series Grand Tours of Scotland with Paul Murton is entirely set in Scotland and showcases journeys that have charmed visitors for over 200 years.
What is Scotland’s poshest train called?
Scotland’s poshest train is the Royal Scotsman, operated by Belmond. It offers a seven‑night Grand Tour of Scotland featuring 24‑hour steward service, fine dining and exclusive excursions.
What are some grand tour packages?
Grand tour packages range from 7‑night luxury trains to 17‑day self‑drive holidays. Many include accommodation, breakfasts and selected excursions. Packages from rail specialists such as McKinlay Kidd or Railbookers combine train travel with ferry trips and often feature the West Highland Line, Skye, Orkney and the north coast. Custom tour operators can create packages that start from London or include extra days on the mainland or islands.
Is there a Grand Tour of Scotland from London?
Yes. You can join a grand tour from London by taking a train to Edinburgh or Glasgow (around 4½ hours). Some tour operators offer packages that include rail travel from London, accommodation and a guided itinerary. Once in Scotland you can connect with the Royal Scotsman or begin a self‑drive route.
Is a grand tour by train better than by car?
Each mode has advantages. A train allows you to sit back and watch scenery without driving; the Royal Scotsman offers luxury and exclusivity but at a high price. A car gives you flexibility to stop wherever you like, explore remote roads and visit small distilleries or beaches. For many travellers, a combination, taking scenic rail lines like the West Highland Line and driving on the islands provides the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
A Grand Tour of Scotland is more than a holiday, it’s an odyssey across time and landscape. Whether you opt for a luxurious journey on the Royal Scotsman, a curated rail‑and‑ferry adventure or a self‑drive epic across 17 days, you’ll encounter ancient stone circles, towering mountains, whisky‑scented glens and warm Highland hospitality. By planning thoughtfully and weaving in traditions like the Highland Games, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. When you’re ready to design your own grand tour, use this guide as your blueprint and don’t hesitate to ask about chauffeur services, bespoke itineraries or hidden gems. Scotland awaits.
Emma is a solo traveler and freelance travel writer from New Zealand who spent three weeks exploring the Scottish Highlands. With a deep appreciation for history and landscapes, she booked a series of day tours and a private chauffeur journey with Scotland Highland Trip. From Loch Ness to the Cairngorms, she documented her experience through vivid blog posts and drone footage.
