Scotland Small Group Tours & Trip Packages

Scotland Small Group Tours & Trips

188 Scotland trips. Tours from 30 tour companies. 1,301 reviews. 4.5/5 avg rating.

35 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Small Group Tour
Premium Scotland
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scottish Highlands

Highlights

  • Discover a hidden folly in the forest of the Scottish Highlands, overlooking a cascading waterfall. Then, visit a wildlife reserve known for its nesting ospreys.
  • Spend an afternoon in Cairngorms National Park in an outdoor folk museum scattered with traditional buildings.
  • Take a cruise on Loch Ness and look for the elusive beast as you sail on the famous, quiet waters of the still loch and marvel at the gorgeous scenery all around you.
  • Spend a day skipping stones and wandering through the quiet landscape of the islands Seil and Easdale – with tiny populations, these islands are a great setting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Spend two nights at your Feature Stay mansion house on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Set amid 40 acres of gardens and dating back to the 1400’s, this classic Scottish estate will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
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Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Highlights of Scotland
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands

Highlights

  • Embark on a world-famous train journey through the Highlands via the renowned West Highland Railway, including a crossing of the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
  • Discover Fort William, where you'll relish breath-taking views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak.
  • Take a private bus tour of the captivating Trotternish Peninsula on Skye.
  • Set out on a scenic boat excursion across the mystical waters of Loch Ness, with the possibility of a lucky sighting of its famous inhabitant.
  • Join a walking tour of Edinburgh guided by a local specialist, and support a social enterprise that empowers locals who've experienced homelessness to become guides.

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Walking the Isle of Skye
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate

Highlights

  • Visit the magical Fairy Pools, where hardy souls swim in the frigid waters
  • Stay in the pretty fishing village of Portree
  • Discover the dramatic Quiraing landslip on foot
  • Tour a Scotch whisky distillery with a tasting on the Isle of Raasay
  • Citizen Science departures available on this trip

Themes

Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Classic Walks of Scotland
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous

Visits

Inverness

Highlights

  • Located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is a charming town that makes for the perfect base for your trip. Unpack once, settle in, and enjoy a warm welcome back at the end of each day.
  • Safety always comes first – let your experienced and qualified leader show you the way as you take in spectacular scenery on some of Scotland’s best walks.
  • Conquer Ben Nevis - the king of Scotland walks – with qualified mountain guides who will provide plenty of encouragement and help you scale the mountain at your own pace.
  • Trek the West Highland Way and experience the best of it – Devil’s Staircase and the final stage leading you to Fort William – and enjoy a leisurely ramble along the Great Glen Way.
  • This trip is as green as it gets. We only use public transport and our accommodation can be reached from major cities in the UK by train.

Themes

Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Best of the United Kingdom
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Cardiff, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Lake District, Liverpool, Loch Ness, London, Oxford

Highlights

  • If you're a Harry Potter lover, this is for you! Explore J.K. Rowling's greatest inspirations in Edinburgh and take one of the world’s most scenic train journeys through the Highlands, crossing the famed Glenfinnan Viaduct.
  • Marvel at the archeological wonder of Stonehenge and discover all you need to know about the rich history of this iconic site.
  • Spend a day exploring arguably the most beautiful and most British countryside – the Cotswolds. Explore the sleepy villages, walk through endless fields and taste some of the best ales in the neighbourhood.
  • Walk the famous Lon Gwyrfai path in Snowdonia National Park, travel to the mountainous landscape of Lake District National Park and hike through the purple heather in Cairngorms National Park.
  • Take a ferry to the Isle of Skye, soak up the fresh sea air and mountain views and taste your way through the local whisky. Then, take a day trip through the stunning landscapes and medieval castles of Skye.

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Scotland's Orkney Islands
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Inverness

Highlights

  • The Orkney Islands are teeming with historic sites to explore. The Neolithic township of Skara Brae, the renowned Ring of Brodgar and 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral – it’s like you’ve been transported back in time!
  • Join your group leader on a walking tour of Kirkwall – Orkney’s main centre. They’ll be able to share with you the history and traditions behind the game of ‘Ba’ in town.
  • Spend the morning discovering the island of Shapinsay on a coastal walking tour, full of rich heritage and small-town quirks. You might even spot some resident seals!
  • What’s Scotland without a tipple? Be sure to join your local leader and group of travellers throughout the trip at a corner pub, tasting some of the finest whiskies on offer.
  • With plenty of time dedicated to exploring at your own pace, you can dial up the history, or instead, balance it all out with some distillery visits. You’ve got the power to choose.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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Best of England and Wales
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Cardiff, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Lake District, Liverpool, London, Oxford

Highlights

  • Marvel at the archeological wonder of Stonehenge and discover all you need to know about the rich history of this puzzling site. Then, explore gorgeous Cornwall.
  • Take part in punting – a truly timeless, quintessentially Oxford pleasure that will see you floating along the idyllic waters of this university city, seeing the beautiful architecture and gardens from the perspective of a boat (or punt).
  • Spend a day exploring arguably the most beautiful and most British countryside – the Cotswolds. Explore the sleepy villages, walk through endless fields and taste some of the best ales in the neighbourhood.
  • Discover cities Cardiff in Wales and Liverpool in England with leader-led walking tours, the best way to discover the city! In Cardiff, explore Dr Who filming locations and in Liverpool, tune in to everything The Beatles.
  • With Edinburgh Castle overlooking your every step, walk the winding streets of the Old Town and take a walking tour of the New Town Scotland’s artistic treasure – the birthplace of Harry Potter.

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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Best of England, Wales and Scotland
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Cardiff, Cotswolds, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Lake District, Liverpool, Loch Ness, Oxford

Highlights

  • Take one of the world’s most scenic train journeys as you travel to the Highlands on the world-famous West Highland Railway, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct of Harry Potter fame. Then explore the birthplace of the novels in Edinburgh.
  • Nothing beats getting to know a place on your own two feet, so get your walking shoes on for explorations of Portree Bay, Creag Bheag and Fort William with views of the UK’s highest peak – Ben Nevis – in all its glory.   
  • Take a ferry to the Isle of Skye, soak up the fresh sea air and mountain views and taste your way through the local whisky. Then, take a day trip through the stunning landscapes and medieval castles of Skye.    
  • Discover cities Cardiff in Wales and Liverpool in England with leader-led walking tours, the best way to discover the city! In Cardiff, explore Dr Who filming locations and in Liverpool, tune in to everything The Beatles.   
  • From the gorgeous Cotswolds, walk the famous Lon Gwyrfai path in Snowdonia National Park, and explore the rolling hills, woodlands and picturesque villages. Then, travel to the mountainous landscape of Lake District National Park, taking a relaxing walk along Windermere Lake.  

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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Scotland Reviews & Ratings

4.5/5  Excellent
1,301  Reviews
See all Scotland tour reviews
Excellent
371
Great
199
Average
43
Disappointing
13
Terrible
6
E

Elaine Donovan

Apr 2024

Written on

Best of Scotland

We stayed in wonderful hotels with excellent food. All meals through Trafalgar were very good. There was lots to see in a short amount of time, our guide kept us mov...

T

Trusted Customer

Apr 2024

Written on

Best of Scotland

Comprehensive tour of Scotland. Would have enjoyed more time on th...

T

Trusted Customer

Apr 2024

Written on

Best of Scotland

I think the tour should include one more day in the Cairngorns to explore the national park and nearby sites. The drive to Fort William/Isle of Skye and back to the ...

L

Len

Aug 2023

Written on

Walk the North West Highlands and Skye

Andy Tibbs is the best tour leader. Climbing Bruach Na Frithe was the highlight.

S

Stephen Lane

Oct 2023

Written on

Best of Britain

The optional excursions were hit or miss.

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Scotland Tour Selection Trips

  • If you want to learn about whisky, do a distillery tour (Auchentoshan is highly recommended) and then get the "malt of the month" in every pub you go to. It's inexpensive and every pub will have a different one. 
  • If you want to feel like a local, spend at least 3 days in the same place, and go to the same coffee shop and pub every day. By the third day, you'll be treated as a regular. The only place this doesn't work is in downtown Edinburgh, which is a major tourist hub.
  • Pubs and drinking are seen as a nice, relaxing way to unwind and spend some time in the evening where it's nice and warm and friendly. Though the Scots do drink regularly, but it's seen as a social, regular part of everyday life. They are not really into crazy binge drinking. But whatever you choose, don't try to keep up! Remember that people can drink legally from the age of 18, so by the time they're in their mid-20s, most people are done with the crazy party life.
  • The Scottish accent is notoriously difficult to understand. But it’s ok to ask anyone you don’t understand to repeat themselves. They know their accent is strong and will slow down if you politely ask them to repeat it.
  • In terms of the weather, prepare for rain! Mist at the very least. It will be cloudy. However, if you go during the summer, you can expect the sun to be up from 4am to 11pm, so hit the outdoor seating!
  • The cardinal rule if you're visiting Scotland for the first time, is that it's NOT ENGLAND. The entire country is called the United Kingdom and Scotland is a part of it, and England is a different part.

Additional details

Tours in Scotland are offered in a wide range of budgets and styles. This is a popular destination among older travelers looking for a relaxing golf getaway, scotch tastings and walking tours through the highlands. Scotland has a warm, welcoming culture and if you like exploring an ancient culture, participating in pub conversations, and a good natured barb here and there, you’ll love being on a Scotland tour.

Is there a language barrier in Scotland?

Depending on the region of Scotland you’re traveling in, it may be extremely difficult to discern what people are saying. English is the main language, however the accent can be notoriously difficult to decipher.

This is a great reason to travel on a tour in Scotland - you and your travel companions will lean on each other to help navigate the accent, and your tour guide will be a useful safety net. Scottish people are aware that their accent can be hard to understand and are generally patient with being asked to repeat themselves.

What is the weather like in Scotland?

Scotland weather is quite variable region by region. If you’re traveling near the coast you can expect fairy cool and windy conditions almost year round. Due to being so far north, during the summertime Scotland experiences very long days, and in Scotland’s northernmost region, there are a few days out of the year with 24 hour sunlight. If you’re traveling during the winter time, expect regular snowfall and temperatures in the 40s (Fahrenheit).

Spring and autumn are highly recommended times to visit, where the weather is less extreme than during the summer and winter. You’ll see temperatures in the 50s and 60s, with intermittent sunshine, and it will be mostly dry.

As far as what to wear, given the variability and the cooler climate, layers are going to be your best friend any time of year in Scotland!

Top 5 Travel Attractions in Scotland

Recently rankeas the most beautiful country in the world, Scotland boasts some of the most breathtaking natural sights on our planet. From its peaceful lochs and glens, to the rolling highlands, to the harsh and jagged peaks in the Western Hebrides, Scotland’s dramatic and diverse landscape is sure to stun even the most seasoned outdoorsman.

Beyond its natural heritage, Scotland is also a country with a vibrant culture and a fascinating history. Home to golf, haggis, and the Loch Ness Monster, there is no shortage of sights to see and things to do in Scotland. Here is this author’s take on the top five travel attractions.

5. A WHISKY TASTING

 A trip to Scotland would not be complete without a taste of its most famous beverage: a dram of genuine, single-malt Scotch. Luckily, there are many opportunities to not only get a taste of whisky (not whiskey!), but also learn about its creation process. There are over 100 licensed distilleries in Scotland, each with their own unique history and fiercely guarded trade secrets, and the majority of them offer some sort of visitor experience. In particular, we recommend a tour at the Glenlivet - one of Scotland’s most famous distilleries that began as an illicit smuggling operation.

4. THE ROYAL RESIDENCES OF EDINBURGH

A walk through the streets of Edinburgh transports you back in time, in no small part due to the capital’s two castles. In the direct heart of the city looms Edinburgh Castle, an imposing stone fortress that sits on top of an extinct volcano. A trip to the castle will not only reward you with an incredible view of the entire city, but a chance to learn about the building’s intriguing and bloody history. The castle has been a royal residence since the 12th century, and for a small fee, you can enter and see Mary Queen of Scots’ private quarters, as well as the infamous Scottish Crown Jewels.

You must be sure to also stop by Edinburgh’s second castle: Holyrood Palace, an active royal residence. Holyrood lies at the opposite end of the Royal Mile, the historic street that connects the two castles, and when the Royal Family is not in town you can take a tour of its decadent rooms and haunted ruins of a cathedral. A detailed guided audio tour will fascinate any visitor, though history buffs will be particularly delighted. The entire castle staff is required to have a thorough understanding of English history, and visitors are encouraged to ask questions.

3. EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

This awe-inspiring structure falls on the border of the wild highlands and is often the image of the iconic Scottish castle. Only accessible by an ancient stone bridge, Eilean Donan is a built on a small island in the icy waters of a saltwater loch. The now isolated fortress was once a centerpiece in hundreds of years of clan conflict and violence, and the weight of this history runs deeply through the castle’s veins.  It is still privately owned and maintained by a member of the MaCrae clan.

2. ISLE OF SKYE

The Isle of Skye is home to some of the most spectacular natural vistas in all of Scotland. This harsh and isolated island has long been heralded as a place of magic, and is the birthplace of hundreds of myths about giants, faeries, and kelpies. A visit to Skye would not be complete without a trip to the enchanted Fairy Pools, a hike up the cliffs of Kilt Rock, and a visit to the see the mysterious stones of Storr. After a day in the outdoors, be sure to warm up with a warm cup of tea and some fish and chips in the charming town of Portree.

1. THE ROYAL MILE

The Royal Mile is a cultural hotspot in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, with no limit of things to do. The best place for shopping and dining, the Royal Mile is lined with some of the best traditional Scottish pubs and shops selling typical Scottish goods, from wool sweaters to shortbread to haggis. The cobblestone mile itself is impressive and physically unique as it has been largely unaltered since it was formalized in 1816.

One especially interesting element of the Mile is its well preserved “closes”, the narrow walking paths which used to lead to residential areas. As the busy road is popular with tourists, you can expect to encounter some authentic bagpipe playing, and the sight of several men in kilts.

Some of the unique buildings on the Royal Mile include the gorgeous Gothic St. Giles’ Cathedral, the old Scottish Parliament, and a church converted into a craft market. At night, the Royal Mile is home to some of the city’s best ghost tours, including trips underground to see full streets that were built over during the plague.

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