Small Group Holiday: Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow
This new Great Value Holiday is launching soon!
A marvellous Scottish adventure
During this amazing 8-night guided holiday, you will experience the greatest highlights of Scotland. Enjoy stays in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow exploring the traditions and heritage of each city alongside a small group and expert guide. With tours, 4-star accommodations, many meals, and transportation already accounted for, this is the perfect stress-free holiday in Scotland.
Our Small Group Journeys provide many extra benefits, including:
- Limited to 21 people
- Guaranteed departures
- Centrally-located, 4-star hotels
- Extra nights in each city (less unpacking!)
- More free time and flexibility
- Stress-free with transportation, accommodations, tours and more included
What's Included
HOTELS: You will be in the following 4-star hotels, or similar:
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
- 3 nights in Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel
- 2 nights in Glasgow at Hilton Glasgow Hotel
- 1 night in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
SIGHTSEEING/TOURS as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Half-day Edinburgh Walking Tour including entrance to Edinburgh Castle (4 hours)
- Visits to St. Andrews (the "home of golf") and Pitlochry
- Day trip to the Isle of Skye with a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle (10 hours)
- Loch Ness Cruise and Speyside Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting (8 hours)
- Journey through Ft. William, Glencoe & Loch Lomond with a visit to Luss
- Half-day Panoramic Tour of Glasgow (4 hours)
- Visits to The Kelpies, Linlithgow & South Queensferry
MEALS:
- Breakfast daily
- Hosted welcome dinner in Edinburgh
- Farewell dinner in Edinburgh
TRANSPORTATION/GUIDES:
- Arrival airport transfer from Edinburgh Airport to hotel (please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package)
- Services of a professional touring guide for 6 days with vehicle/driver
- Departure airport transfer from hotel to Edinburgh Airport (please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package)
NOT INCLUDED:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfare into and out of Edinburgh (EDI)
Great Ways to Explore
-
Explore the famous Edinburgh Castle.
Discover the delicious whiskeys of Scotland including Glenfiddich and Macallan.
-
Visit the oldest university in Scotland – St. Andrew!
-
Dive into the culture of Glasgow during your included half-day tour.
-
Enjoy your included Loch Ness cruise and try to catch Nessie!
Prepare to adventure around Scotland with the convenience of a small group escorted tour. Begin your trip to Edinburgh, getting acquainted with the culture of the city. Walk the historic streets of the Old Town while sampling the foods of Edinburgh. Cap off your time at Edinburgh Castle before heading north to Inverness.
Take in the breathtaking views of Scotland's highlands. Visit the Isle of Skye and capture pictures of the amazing Eilean Donan Castle while embracing the surrounding environment. After your included Loch Ness cruise, you will head to the Cardhu Distillery to taste Scotland's finest whiskeys.
The final part of your guided holiday in Scotland brings you to Scotland's largest city – Glasgow! Enjoy your included panoramic tour of the city before continuing to explore the heritage of Glasgow at the Mackintosh House, the St. Mungo Museum, and the Cathedral Precinct.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
HOTELS: You will be in the following 4-star hotels, or similar:
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
- 3 nights in Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel
- 2 nights in Glasgow at Hilton Glasgow Hotel
- 1 night in Edinburgh at Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket
SIGHTSEEING/TOURS as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Half-day Edinburgh Walking Tour including entrance to Edinburgh Castle (4 hours)
- Visits to St. Andrews (the "home of golf") and Pitlochry
- Day trip to the Isle of Skye with a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle (10 hours)
- Loch Ness Cruise and Speyside Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting (8 hours)
- Journey through Ft. William, Glencoe & Loch Lomond with a visit to Luss
- Half-day Panoramic Tour of Glasgow (4 hours)
- Visits to The Kelpies, Linlithgow & South Queensferry
MEALS:
- Breakfast daily
- Hosted welcome dinner in Edinburgh
- Farewell dinner in Edinburgh
TRANSPORTATION/GUIDES:
- Arrival airport transfer from Edinburgh Airport to hotel (please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package)
- Services of a professional touring guide for 6 days with vehicle/driver
- Departure airport transfer from hotel to Edinburgh Airport (please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package)
NOT INCLUDED:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfare into and out of Edinburgh (EDI)
-
Explore the famous Edinburgh Castle.
Discover the delicious whiskeys of Scotland including Glenfiddich and Macallan.
-
Visit the oldest university in Scotland – St. Andrew!
-
Dive into the culture of Glasgow during your included half-day tour.
-
Enjoy your included Loch Ness cruise and try to catch Nessie!
Prepare to adventure around Scotland with the convenience of a small group escorted tour. Begin your trip to Edinburgh, getting acquainted with the culture of the city. Walk the historic streets of the Old Town while sampling the foods of Edinburgh. Cap off your time at Edinburgh Castle before heading north to Inverness.
Take in the breathtaking views of Scotland's highlands. Visit the Isle of Skye and capture pictures of the amazing Eilean Donan Castle while embracing the surrounding environment. After your included Loch Ness cruise, you will head to the Cardhu Distillery to taste Scotland's finest whiskeys.
The final part of your guided holiday in Scotland brings you to Scotland's largest city – Glasgow! Enjoy your included panoramic tour of the city before continuing to explore the heritage of Glasgow at the Mackintosh House, the St. Mungo Museum, and the Cathedral Precinct.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Edinburgh!
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport and board your transfer to the hotel. Once you are settled in, prepare for your hosted welcome dinner to meet your fellow travellers.
A Tip For Your Trip: Please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package
Transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Located in the historical heart of the city near Haymarket station, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is the perfect place from which to explore Scotland's enchanting capital city. Each of the 282 comfortable and modern rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, bottled water and double-glazed windows for a peaceful sleep. Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast and cap off a day of adventure with a meal at the on-site restaurant. Conveniently located to the major sites of Edinburgh, the hotel is located close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Please note this hotel was formerly known as the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh.Day 2. Edinburgh
Begin your morning on foot with your expert guide exploring Scotland’s beautiful capital city. Boasting its ancient fortress, Edinburgh Castle, the iconic structure towers high above the city and offers the most wonderful views. Wanderlust through the historic streets of the Old Town which contrast strikingly with the elegance and classical architecture of the 18th-century New Town.
Visit some of the city’s unique independent shops and sample some of their delicious offerings including traditional Scottish cheeses, artisan liquors, hand-crafted pastries, and of course wonderful whiskies! Top it all off with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and journey back in time as you discover this mighty fortress and former royal residence, now a major part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 3. Edinburgh - Inverness
Leave your hotel with your driver/guide and head north to the picturesque Scottish highlands. On the way, you will visit St Andrew’s, Scotland’s oldest university town and home of the world-famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club. After spending approximately 2 hours here, leave St. Andrews and continue your journey onward to Pitlochry.
Enjoy a late lunch (not included) before embarking on a short walking tour of Pitlochry with your guide. You will be allotted some time to explore the area for trinkets and souvenirs. The final part of your journey will take you along the western edge of the Cairngorms National Park, the famous winter resort of Aviemore before arriving at your final destination, Inverness, the gateway to the highlands.
Check-in - Mercure Inverness Hotel
Enjoy warm Highland hospitality in Old Town Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel, situated in the heart of the vibrant city center on the banks of the River Ness. Rebuilt on the site of the original Caledonian Hotel, this modern hotel is just a 6-minute walk from Inverness train station and a stone's throw from the city's numerous pubs and restaurants.
Each of the 118 rooms come with flat screen TVs, complimentary WiFi, tea/coffeemaking facilities and views of the River Ness or Old Town. Explore the beautiful surroundings, including legendary Loch Ness six miles away or keep yourself in peak fitness with a workout in out fully-equipped gym. Enjoy a meal at the traditional brasserie with a bar.
Day 4. Inverness
Guided by your escorted driver, the Isle of Skye welcomes you to experience its breathtaking mountain scenery and remarkable landscapes. Travel alongside the length of Loch Ness to see the famously romantic 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle for a photo stop. Located on a small tidal island, it's one of Scotland's most picturesque and iconic sights. Your adventure continues via Kyle of Lochalsh where you cross "over the sea to Skye", heading up the island’s east coast through the stunning Red Cuillin Mountains to Sligachan before arriving in Portree.
Once you have arrived in Portree, take some time at leisure to explore the coastal town streets or grab a bite to eat. After you have spent time here, you will now get to experience some of Skye’s most famous scenery such as The Old Man of Storr or Kilt Rock. The rural charm of the area and the local characters, namely sheep and cattle on the road, are memories you won’t forget. Return to Inverness, travelling back over the bridge - your journey home will be slightly different to the morning’s journey, giving you a chance to experience more of the remote Scottish Highlands.
Day 5. Inverness
Today you will make your way to Loch Ness where you will board a scenic cruise - keep your eyes out to spot Nessie! Your driver/guide will be waiting to pick you up after the cruise and you will continue your tour east to the famous Speyside region of Scotland, and along the way, you will stop for lunch (not included).
The world-famous town of Speyside is home to over half of Scotland’s whisky distilleries including Macallan and Glenfiddich. Cardhu Distillery is where you will get to visit and taste this effortless and elegant single malt scotch whisky. Your Cardhu Flavour Journey Tour will last approximately 1.5 hours showcasing how their inventive, pioneering nature fueled a quest to capture the generosity of Speyside in the highly-coveted malt, noted for its sensual pour and rich, smooth character. Enjoy your journey back to Inverness along the Moray coastline.
A Tip For Your Trip: Whisky tour is subject to availability and an alternative distillery will be visited if Cardhu is not available.
Day 6. Inverness - Glasgow
Once you have checked out, meet your driver/guide for a full-day journey to Glasgow. En route, you'll pass through the stunning Glencoe Valley of the Scottish Highlands, a picturesque and historic pass – most famously known today as a filming location for the James Bonds Skyfall movie. Historically, it was also the location of the 1692 Massacre of Glencoe, where 38 members of Clan MacDonald were killed by the forces of King William II.
As you move along, you'll pass through the western side of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, catching views of the Arrochar Alps as you skirt alongside the shores of the massive loch. Enjoy a visit to the quaint village of Luss, located loch side. At the end of the pier, you can gaze out over Loch Lomond with the imposing Ben Lomond in the background. Conclude your day on arrival to Glasgow.
Check-in - Hilton Glasgow Hotel
With a central location in the heart of Glasgow's business district, Hilton Glasgow is conveniently situated for all the city's most popular attractions. Just a short walk from the iconic King's Theater, the hotel is also a stone's throw away from the city's central station and approximately 15 minutes away from Glasgow International Airport. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to experience all that Scotland’s largest city has to offer, as it is close to the SECC, has great shopping, and has excellent bars and restaurants.
Day 7. Glasgow
Glasgow is certainly worth exploring, being home to one of the only remaining intact Gothic cathedral on the Scottish mainland and many fine museums. On this morning’s panoramic tour with your private guide, learn how a small settlement developed through industry and commerce has become the Second City of Empire, boasting the finest collection of Victorian architecture outside London.
Explore the Cathedral Precinct, the Necropolis, the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art, and see the Gallery of Modern Art, housed in the former mansion of a tobacco merchant. Additionally, Glasgow has its excellent Hunterian Museum and Mackintosh House, a venue dedicated to local architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Don’t miss the nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, so much part of the life and soul of the city.
Day 8. Glasgow - Edinburgh
Today you will head back to Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh. On the way, you will make a stop at The Kelpies. Standing at 100 feet tall, the magical Kelpies are a man-made wonder and a feat of engineering. Moving on, you will next make a stop at Linlithgow, an ancient burgh that is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Your guide will take you on foot to explore the historic town along with Linlithgow Palace, a 15th-century ruin that is positioned perfectly beside Linlithgow Loch. Enjoy lunch at an eatery of your choice (not included).
Upon completion of your meal, you'll board the coach for your final stop at South Queensferry. South Queensferry is a small village just outside of Edinburgh, located on the shore. Here you can walk the quaint streets, explore the local boutiques, and admire the Forth Bridges; created 125 years ago and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the final part of your trip back to Edinburgh, and toast to the end of your journey with your fellow travellers at a farewell dinner this evening.
Check-in - Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Located in the historical heart of the city near Haymarket station, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is the perfect place from which to explore Scotland's enchanting capital city. Each of the 282 comfortable and modern rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, bottled water and double-glazed windows for a peaceful sleep. Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast and cap off a day of adventure with a meal at the on-site restaurant. Conveniently located to the major sites of Edinburgh, the hotel is located close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Please note this hotel was formerly known as the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh.Day 9. Depart Edinburgh
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before leaving on your transfer to the airport.
A Tip For Your Trip: Please advise your flight information as airfare is not included in this package.
Transfer from hotel to airport
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
Promo Code Offer Details (where applicable): All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Promotional codes may be input online on the payment screen. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for any other products or services.
Go to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.