Edinburgh is a city that wears its history, architecture, and scenery on its sleeve. It’s packed with enough to fill multiple days, but if you’re short on time, a full-day tour is a smart way to see a lot without missing out. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or someone craving Scottish culture, Edinburgh’s diverse tour options have something to offer. We’ve picked the best based on reviews, uniqueness, and value—like that guided city walk with Edinburgh Castle tickets included or a scenic Loch Ness and Highland trip that covers some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. These tours are designed to give you a memorable taste of Scotland’s capital and beyond.
In this list, you’ll find walking tours, scenic coach journeys, private excursions, and even themed experiences like Outlander. Each offers a different way to explore, balancing in-depth guides, breathtaking scenery, and transportation ease. For example, a small-group city walk offers intimacy and local insights, while a day trip into the Highlands takes you through rugged landscapes and historic sites. Whichever you pick, you’ll get a solid dose of Edinburgh’s charm, history, and scenery—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Now, here’s a quick overview of the types of tours that made our list:
– City walking tours with highlights like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile [see TOUR #1 and TOUR #5]
– Scenic day trips to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands [check TOUR #2, TOUR #7, and TOUR #10]
– Private, customizable tours for those who want a tailored experience [explore TOUR #6 and TOUR #8]
– Special themed experiences like Outlander locations [visit TOUR #4]
– Cultural and historic tours blending city sights with nearby castles and ruins [review TOUR #12 and TOUR #13]
Below, we’ll walk through each of these fantastic options to help you decide which fits your style, interests, and schedule best.
1. Edinburgh Full Day Walking Tour with Castle Included -Small Group
At number 1 on our list, the Edinburgh Full Day Walking Tour with Castle Included offers an excellent introduction to the city’s highlights in around 5 to 6 hours. This tour shines because it combines key attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, and Greyfriars Bobby with insider commentary from a knowledgeable guide. The small group size ensures everyone can ask questions and get personalized attention. The castle ticket is included, saving you time and money. The itinerary hits the main sights: starting from Charlotte Square, exploring Georgian townhouses and neoclassical architecture, crossing Princes Street Gardens, and ending with a walk through the historic Old Town.
Guests love Adam’s storytelling—“a full day but it flew by with Adam’s narration” and “he gave us great suggestions on where to eat and visit.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown but don’t have time for multiple days. Be prepared to walk about 12,000 steps, including hills and stairs.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, compact introduction to Edinburgh with castle tickets included, this guided walk is a top choice for first-timers or those short on time.
2. Full-Day Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands from Edinburgh
At number 2, the Full-Day Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands is a 12-hour tour that takes you deep into Scotland’s wild landscape. This trip covers the Trossachs National Park, Glencoe’s dramatic scenery, and Loch Ness’s mysterious waters—a perfect selection for those craving scenic grandeur. Highlights include a visit to the Highland town of Callander, stops at Glencoe, and a chance to take a monster-spotting cruise on Loch Ness (tickets sold separately). Traveling in a small bus, you’ll enjoy personalized attention, and your guide shares stories about the dark history and legends of the regions.
Guests praise the “breathtaking views and well-planned stops,” and the small-group style creates a friendly atmosphere. The tour includes time for photos and a chance to stretch your legs amidst some of the most iconic landscapes in Scotland. The only downside? It’s a long day, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: For an immersive, scenic adventure combining history, myth, and natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
3. Full-Day Highland Lochs Glens and Castles Tour from Edinburgh
Number 3 on our list, the Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles takes you on a 10-hour journey into Scotland’s most treasured scenery and historic sites. The tour visits Doune Castle, famous from Outlander and Monty Python, and includes scenic stops at Loch Lubnaig and Kilchurn Castle. You’ll see Stirling Castle, a key royal residence, and learn about Scotland’s kings and queens along the way.
Guests commend the “perfect day of sightseeing, with excellent stops and a knowledgeable guide.” It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction—without the hassle of driving. The tour offers a balance of castles, lochs, and scenic views, with enough time at each stop to explore or snap photos.
Bottom Line: An affordable, well-rounded tour suitable for those new to Scotland who want a mix of castles, lakes, and history.
4. From Edinburgh: Outlander Full-Day Tour in Spanish
Number 4 is the Outlander-themed tour which takes you through key filming locations and real castles used in the series. It’s perfect if Outlander is your thing, or you love Scottish scenery and castles. It features visits to Blackness Castle, Midhope Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Doune Castle, and charming villages like Culross and Falkland. The tour lasts about 9.5 hours and is guided in Spanish.
Reviews highlight the “beautiful landscapes and charismatic guide,” and fans of Outlander appreciate the stops at Jamie Fraser’s home and the iconic castles. The itinerary is packed with scenes from the series, making it a must for fans or anyone interested in Scottish history and scenery presented with a storytelling twist.
Bottom Line: A themed tour that combines scenery, castles, and Outlander magic, ideal for Spanish speakers or fans of the series.
5. Edinburgh: Full-Day Walking Tour with Tickets – Small Group
Number 5 is the Edinburgh: Full-Day Walking Tour with Tickets. This 5.5-hour experience balances sightseeing with cultural insights. It covers Old Town, Edinburgh Castle, the National Galleries, Greyfriars Bobby, Grassmarket, and more. The tour’s strength is the small group size, which allows for personalized interaction and flexibility, including a break for lunch.
Guests appreciate the mix of art, history, and lively city scenes. The guide’s detailed commentary brings Edinburgh’s past to life, and the included castle tour is a big plus. It’s perfect if you want a focused city experience without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a shorter, intimate city walk with cultural highlights, this tour offers excellent value and personal attention.
6. Kingdom of Fife & St Andrews Full-Day Guided Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
Number 6 features the Fife & St Andrews private tour. For around $414 per person, your party gets exclusive access to Falkland Palace, St. Andrews Old Course, and charming fishing villages. The tour is customized for your interests, whether that’s golf, castles, or coastal scenery. Traveling in a comfortable Mercedes minivan, it includes stops at Falkland Palace, St. Andrews, and Lindores Abbey Distillery (sampling optional).
Guests praise the personalized experience, with the guide tailoring the day and sharing insider tips. The private setting makes this a flexible, luxurious option for those who want to avoid crowds and focus on what interests them most. The main drawback: the high price, but many find it worthwhile for the tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking privacy, flexibility, and a personalized Scottish experience, especially with specific interests.
7. Full-Day Tour to the Scottish Highlands
Number 7 is the Highlands tour that covers Glencoe, Loch Ness, and Pitlochry in a 12.5-hour journey. The guide, Brian, is praised for his storytelling and local insights. Stops include Kilmahog to meet Highland Coos, Loch Tulla Viewpoint, and the Three Sisters mountains.
It’s perfect for those who want to see the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, with plenty of photo opportunities and historical snippets. The group size is small, and reviews mention the comfortable bus and knowledgeable guide making the long day enjoyable. The scenery alone makes it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers craving the iconic Scottish scenery with a friendly, informative guide leading the way.
8. Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Full-Day Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
Number 8 is a private tour of Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond. For about $411 per person, this custom experience takes you through historic Stirling, Linlithgow Palace, and into the scenic Trossachs. The private minivan offers flexibility and comfort, with a guide who explains the significance of each site.
Guests love the personalized attention; one reviewer notes their guide “wore a kilt and was very knowledgeable.” The tour is perfect for those wanting a tailored, relaxed day out with all logistics handled, especially if you prefer a less structured schedule.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a private, customizable day exploring Scotland’s castles and scenic parks.
9. Full-Day Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Scottish Highlands Tour
Number 9 combines highland scenery with the iconic Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The 14.5-hour tour includes a visit to a whisky distillery, the Trossachs National Park, and the Tattoo performance. It’s a full immersion into Scotland’s culture, scenery, and festivities.
Guests mention that the “driver and guide made the day fun and memorable,” though the long day means good stamina is required. The combination of music, landscape, and whisky tasting makes this a rich cultural experience, especially for those wanting a comprehensive Scottish trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Highland scenery plus the unforgettable Military Tattoo show.
10. From Edinburgh: Full Day Scottish Highlands and Whisky Tour
Number 10 is a whisky and highlands combo, covering Dunkeld, Hermitage Forest, and the Kelpies. The 9-hour trip includes a visit to Scotland’s oldest distillery, with tastings, and a walk in Hermitage Forest.
Guests appreciate the informative narrative and the chance to sample Scotch whisky in its native environment. It’s perfect for whisky lovers who also want to see the scenic side of Scotland without a long day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for whisky fans who want scenic highlights plus a distillery experience in a shorter tour.
11. Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh
Number 11 offers a 12-hour trip to Oban, Loch Lomond, and Inveraray. Travel through Glasgow and past Kilchurn Castle. Lunch is included in Oban, known as Scotland’s seafood capital, giving a taste of local cuisine along with stunning views.
Guests describe the experience as “wonderful and scenic, with knowledgeable drivers,” though some wish for more time in Oban itself. The tour balances scenery and cultural stops, making it a solid pick for a full Highland experience with a seaside twist.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a scenic day with a seaside flavor and a taste of Scottish coastal life.
12. Historic Edinburgh and Rosslyn Chapel Full-Day Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
Number 12 is a private Edinburgh and Rosslyn Chapel experience. It combines a personalized city tour with a visit to the mystical Rosslyn Chapel, famous from The Da Vinci Code.
Guests love the comprehensive narration of Edinburgh’s landmarks and the tailored experience that allows for flexible timing. Rosslyn Chapel’s intricate stonework and legends make it a standout feature. This tour is best suited for those who want a private, in-depth look at both urban and spiritual Scottish sites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a private, detailed exploration of Edinburgh and the famous chapel.
13. Private Full-Day Walking Tour in Edinburgh with Edinburgh Castle
Number 13 offers a private walking tour that focuses on customized city exploration. Lasting about 7 hours, it’s ideal for those who want a flexible, intimate experience. Your guide covers the Royal Mile, Calton Hill, and the historic Old and New Towns.
Visitors appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to focus on specific interests. The guide’s local knowledge shines, making it a great choice for those who prefer a tailored pace and deeper insights into Edinburgh’s streets.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible tour that covers Edinburgh’s top neighborhoods and landmarks.
14. Full Day Tour to St Andrews, Dunfermline & the Fife Coast
Number 14 is a full-day private tour combining St. Andrews, Dunfermline, and the Fife coast. It’s perfect for those who want to see royal burial sites, golf history, and seaside villages. The tour includes visits to Dunfermline Abbey and the Old Course at St. Andrews.
Guests comment that guide Andy made the trip “unforgettable and flexible,” adapting stops to their interests. The private format allows for a leisurely pace and personalized sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for golf enthusiasts, history fans, and those wanting an exclusive Scottish coast experience.
15. Full Day Private Tour in West Highlands, Oban and Glencoe
Rounding out our list is the West Highlands private tour. This 9.5-hour journey offers some of the best scenery in a single day, including Loch Lubnaig, Kilchurn Castle, and lunch in Oban, Scotland’s seafood capital. The trip is highly customizable, with stops at Highland Cows and spectacular valleys.
Guests rave about the “beautiful stops and relaxed pace,” with the guide’s stories adding depth. It’s perfect if you prefer a private, flexible experience with maximum scenery.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for travelers seeking a personalized, scenic adventure with the comfort of private transport.
How to Choose Your Perfect Edinburgh Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. City walkers might prefer the small-group city walk, while history lovers should look at the private Edinburgh and Rosslyn Chapel. If Scotland’s rugged landscapes are your priority, the Highland Tours and West Highlands private trip are top picks. For those interested in Scottish culture and Outlander fans, the themed tours offer a wealth of movie locations and stories.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and guide. Think about how much walking you’re comfortable with, as some tours involve a lot of steps and hills, like the full-day Edinburgh walk, while others focus more on transportation and scenery.
Edinburgh’s full-day tours open up the city and its surroundings in ways that are convenient and insightful. Whether you want a guided city stroll with castle tickets, a private bespoke day, or an adventure into the Highlands, there’s something here for everyone. For scenic beauty, history, or series fandom, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Pick one that suits your style, and enjoy your Scottish adventure.