How to Plan Your Fullday Tour of the Scottish Highlands in Edinburgh

Scotland’s Highlands is one of the most idyllic and scenic destinations in the world. With rolling hills, vibrant greenery, and serene waterbodies, the Scottish Highlands provide a breathtaking view. Tourists who visit Edinburgh often wish to explore the Highlands’ beauty, but planning the trip could be quite daunting. Itineraries, transport, and logistics could be challenging when you are not familiar with the Scottish countryside. Therefore, it is best to book a tour that takes care of all the travel arrangements and provides a seamless and comfortable experience. In this post, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Fullday Tour of the Scottish Highlands in Edinburgh.

Step 1: Research

Before booking any tour, it is vital to research the options available. There are several tour operators in Edinburgh, each with a different itinerary and price point. Look for tours that visit your preferred destinations, such as Glencoe Loch Ness and Pitlochry. The Fullday Tour usually lasts up to 12 hours, so ensure you have enough time to cover everything on the itinerary. Always read reviews and ratings from previous customers to ensure you are booking a reputable and reliable tour operator with excellent customer service.

Step 2: Booking the Tour

Once you have found the tour that suits your preferences, it’s time to book. You can book online on the tour operator’s website or through travel websites such as Viator or TripAdvisor. Booking through travel websites gives you the benefit of comparing prices and reviews across multiple operators, making it easier to find the right tour for you. Ensure you book your tour ahead of time to avoid missing out, especially during the peak seasons between May to September.

Step 3: Preparing for the Tour

Now that you have booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for the day. The tour operator will provide you with all the necessary information, including the pickup location, start time, and the itinerary of the day. You should dress appropriately for the weather, as the Highlands could be colder and wetter than Edinburgh. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved. Also, pack a water bottle and some snacks, as there will be free time during the tour to explore local towns and attractions where you can find food and drinks.

Step 4: The Tour Day

On the day of the tour, arrive at the pickup location on time. The tour operator will provide you with all the necessary information regarding the tour, including the guide’s name, contact information, and the tour bus number. The tour bus is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable ride throughout the day. The tour guide will share information about Scottish history and culture along the way, making the trip more informative and engaging. The tour bus makes several stops during the tour, including Glencoe Loch Ness, Pitlochry, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness. You can explore these towns at your leisure and soak in the scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The tour also includes a free organic tea or coffee with a shortbread biscuit en route and a nip of Scottish whisky before the tour ends.

Step 5: Wrapping up the Tour

The tour usually ends at Edinburgh, where the tour bus will drop you off at your designated location. If you enjoyed the tour, feel free to leave a gratuity to the tour guide and driver who went the extra mile to make your tour memorable.

The Bottom Line

Planning a tour to the Scottish Highlands could be challenging, but booking a guided tour saves time, money and stress. When you book a tour, you leave the details to the experts and enjoy a seamless tour of the Scottish countryside. The Full-day Tour of the Scottish Highlands will give you a memorable experience of Scotland’s beautiful landscape, history and culture. If you are planning to visit Edinburgh, book the tour using this link: book the tour here and explore the Highlands the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, renowned for its rich history, culture, and scenic beauty. With its majestic castles, cobblestone alleys, and world-class festivals, it attracts millions of visitors every year. If you’re planning to visit Edinburgh, you may have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Edinburgh.

1. What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit the city is from late spring to early autumn. During this time, the weather is mild, and there are various festivals and events happening, such as the Edinburgh International Festival, Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and Edinburgh Fringe Festival. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and get better deals on accommodation, you can visit in the off-season from October to March.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has many attractions that you shouldn’t miss, such as:

• Edinburgh Castle
• The Royal Mile
• The Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament
• The National Museum of Scotland
• The Edinburgh Dungeon
• The Royal Botanic Garden
• Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
• The Royal Yacht Britannia

3. What is the best way to get around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a compact city, and you can easily explore it on foot, especially the Old Town and the New Town. However, if you want to travel further, you can use public transport, such as buses and trams, or hire a bicycle. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

4. What is the currency used in Edinburgh?

The currency used in Edinburgh and the rest of Scotland is the British pound sterling (£). It’s the same currency used in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

5. What are the local dishes to try in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh and Scotland, in general, have some traditional dishes that you must try, such as:

• Haggis, neeps, and tatties – a dish made of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, served with turnips and potatoes
• Cullen skink – a creamy soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions
• Cranachan – a dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, oats, and honey
• Scotch whisky – a famous Scottish alcoholic drink

6. Is Edinburgh a safe city for tourists?

Overall, Edinburgh is a safe city for tourists. However, as with any city, you should take some precautions, such as:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas
• Keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a hotel safe
• Be aware of pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services

7. What are the customs and etiquette in Edinburgh?

Scotland has some unique customs and etiquette that you should be aware of, such as:

• Respect the Scottish national dress, kilt, and tartan
• Don’t confuse Scotland with England or refer to a Scottish person as British
• Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or directions
• Observe the laws and regulations, such as smoking bans and alcohol laws

8. What is the climate like in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it has mild temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature in summer is around 16°C (61°F), while in winter, it’s around 5°C (41°F). However, it’s worth noting that the weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack for all possibilities.

9. What is the history of Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Roman times. In the Middle Ages, it developed into an important town and became the capital city of Scotland. Since then, it has played a crucial role in Scottish history, such as the Scottish Reformation, the Jacobite risings, and the Enlightenment. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a centre for arts, culture, and innovation.

10. How can I experience the local culture in Edinburgh?

If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture in Edinburgh, you can:

• Attend a traditional Scottish ceilidh, a social gathering with music and dancing
• Visit the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world
• Join a whisky tasting tour and learn about Scotland’s national drink
• Watch a Scottish Premier League football match
• Shop for souvenirs and local products at the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a vibrant, welcoming, and fascinating city that offers something for every visitor. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, festivals, or outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in Edinburgh. We hope that this FAQs guide has answered some of the key questions you may have about Edinburgh and that it helps you plan your trip to this amazing Scottish city.