How to Plan Your 5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands Tour in Edinburgh

Scotland is known for its rugged natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. There’s so much to explore from the cities to the countryside. One of the best ways to discover Scotland’s beauty is by taking a tour. This comprehensive 5-day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands tour will show you the best of Scotland. Here’s how to plan your 5-day tour in Edinburgh.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Oban

On day one, you’ll depart from Edinburgh at 9 am and travel west through the scenic Trossachs National Park towards Loch Lomond, where you will have a chance to take a boat trip. You will then travel through the dramatic Glencoe valley to Oban. Oban is known as the seafood capital of Scotland, and you can sample some of the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. You will have an overnight stay in Oban.

Day 2: Oban to Isle of Skye

On day two, we leave Oban and travel through the rugged landscape of the West Highlands. Along the way, we will stop in Glenfinnan, which is the historic site of the 1745 uprising. You will also visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle. Afterward, we’ll continue to the Isle of Skye via the Skye bridge. The Isle of Skye is known for its stunning natural beauty; you’ll have an unforgettable stay on this island.

Day 3: Isle of Skye

On day three, we explore the Isle of Skye in more depth. We will visit some of the most scenic spots on the island, including the Cuillin Mountains, the Old Man of Storr, and the Fairy Pools. The Isle of Skye is also famous for its whisky, and we will visit a local distillery to learn more about this prized Scottish drink. We’ll spend another night on the Isle of Skye.

Day 4: Isle of Skye to Inverness

On day four, we leave the Isle of Skye and head to Inverness. You’ll travel through the Scottish Highlands, which is known for its stunning landscapes, and pass by the Eilean Donan Castle. We’ll stop at the Culloden Battlefield, which is the site of the last battle fought on British soil. The day will end in Inverness, where you’ll have an overnight stay.

Day 5: Inverness to St Andrews and back to Edinburgh

On the final day, we’ll travel south through the Cairngorm mountains and reach St. Andrews, which is well-known for its golf links and the historic university founded there in 1413. There, you will visit St. Andrews Cathedral and have an opportunity to explore the town. We’ll then start our journey back to Edinburgh and make one last stop to see the Forth Bridge, arriving in Edinburgh in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the Tour?

• All fees and taxes
• Experienced ‘Hairy Coo’ Driver-Guide providing live commentary and storytelling throughout
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities
• Accommodation in Edinburgh, Oban, Portree, or Inverness

Who is this Tour for?

This tour is for anyone interested in Scotland’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the local towns, try traditional Scottish food, and learn about the country’s whisky-making industry. If you love nature and scenic drives, you will love this tour as it takes you to some of Scotland’s most remote nature spots that would be hard to reach by public transport.

How to Book?

Ready to book your 5-day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands tour? Click here to book the tour on the Viator website.

Conclusion

Scotland is a must-visit destination, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. A tour is the best way to explore this beautiful country, and the 5-day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands tour provides a comprehensive overview of what Scotland has to offer. With accommodations, transportation, and all fees and taxes included, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Scotland.

Edinburgh: The Most Frequently Asked Questions

Edinburgh is a charming and historic city, built on seven hills and located in the southeast of Scotland. With its rich history and numerous attractions, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists visit Edinburgh every year. If you’re planning a visit to this Scottish gem, you likely have a lot of questions in mind. In this post, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. What’s the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re interested in. The summer months of June, July, and August tend to be the busiest due to the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which showcases various arts and cultural events. If you don’t enjoy crowds and would rather skip the festival, then spring and autumn are great times to visit for fewer tourists and mild weather. Winter is also a great time to experience Edinburgh’s festive charm and holiday markets.

2. How do I get to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a well-connected airport, which receives flights from around the world. If you’re coming from elsewhere in the UK or Europe, another option is by train or bus. Both transport options offer affordable and convenient ways to reach the city center. The train station is located directly in the city center, with multiple lines running in and out of the city. Bus stations like the Edinburgh Bus Station and St. Andrew Square Bus Station offer services to destinations around the country and beyond.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Edinburgh?

There are a lot of must-visit attractions in Edinburgh, but some of the top ones include:

The Edinburgh Castle

The Edinburgh Castle is a world-famous attraction and one of Scotland’s most visited historical sites. Located on Castlehill, it’s easily recognizable by its prominent location atop steep cliffs. Highlights include the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and Royal Palace.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a historic street running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It connects Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Visitors can enjoy shops, restaurants, and street performers along the way.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular museums in the country, with exhibits on science, history, and Scottish culture. The museum’s stunning architecture and interactive displays make it a favorite among visitors.

The Scott Monument

The Scott Monument is a tribute to Sir Walter Scott, a famous Scottish novelist and poet. The monument is located in Princes Street Gardens and offers amazing views over the city.

4. What should I eat and drink in Edinburgh?

Scottish cuisine is unique and diverse, and there are plenty of traditional foods to try in Edinburgh. Some of the most famous dishes include haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink, and cranachan. As for drinks, whisky is a must-try when in Scotland. When in Edinburgh, make sure to taste some local brews such as Edinburgh Pale Ale and Innis & Gunn.

5. How do I get around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a pretty walkable city, and some of the top attractions are all in the city center. However, there are other transport options such as buses and trams. The Lothian Buses company operates the majority of the bus routes in and around Edinburgh, while the tram runs between the city center and the airport.

6. What’s the nightlife like in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a thriving nightlife, with a wide variety of bars and clubs to suit any taste. Some of the top places to check out include the city’s many whiskey bars such as Whiski Rooms and the Devil’s Advocate. For those looking for a lively atmosphere, the Cowgate and Grassmarket areas have plenty of bars and pubs that stay open until late.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh is a fascinating and vibrant city that has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just want to explore what the city has to offer, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. With this guide, we hope that you’ve found answers to some of the most common questions about Edinburgh and are now ready to plan your next trip.