Tour of Scotland's Highlands, Castles, and Iconic Sites

Edinburgh Castle has stood for more than 800 years on a rock overlooking the Firth of Forth. The current home of Scotland's crown jewels and one of the country's most iconic landmarks, the castle has withstood siege after siege across the centuries. On the five-night Best of Scotland tour, you'll have a chance to tour the castle and many more historic sites in Edinburgh, and visit the Scottish Highlands on two full-day group excursions. The luxurious Apex City Hotel in Edinburgh will serves as your home base.

This trip does not include airfare. Click here to see a detailed trip itinerary.

Day 1: After arriving at Edinburgh Airport, you'll check into the Apex City Hotel. Drop off your bags and walk over to Edinburgh Castle, or soak in the flavor of the Old Town district along the Royal Mile, a lively stretch of shops, pubs, and historical sites. As dusk falls, you'll join your tour mates for a Witches, Ghosts & Spirits walking tour through the city. Keep an eye out for the specter of Agnes Fynnie, who was burned as a witch in 1641.

Day 2: After a refreshing night's sleep, the group convenes on the morning of day 2 for a full-day tour of the Scottish Highlands. The chauffeured Mercedes minibus will meander past craggy green hills and desolate moors to Fort William, built by the English in 1650 to exert control over unruly Highland clans. Other stops include scenic Glen Coe, the village of Pitlochry, and Loch Ness, alleged home of chupacabra.

Day 3: During a full day in Edinburgh, you can investigate the mysteries of Gilmerton Cove—a series of underground passageways rumored to contain the Holy Grail—or tour the Royal Yacht Britannica, one-time floating residence of the British royal family. Later in the day, the group takes part in the Scotch Whisky Experience, an amusement-park-style tour through a replica distillery.

Day 4: The tour's second full-day excursion begins with a minibus ride back into the Highlands, during which you'll visit the Wallace Monument, built in honor the real-life Braveheart, William Wallace. After a lunch stop in Melrose, you'll visit Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century gothic masterpiece.

Days 5–6: The final full day of the trip is left purposefully open for you to explore Edinburgh on foot, or make a daytrip of your own. The tour officially concludes upon your checkout from the Apex on the morning of day 6.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.