2026 Complete Guide

Edinburgh Bus Tours

Every hop-on hop-off route, Highland day trip, island adventure, and multi-day tour departing from Edinburgh โ€” 75 tours across 7 operators, compared.

75Tours
7Operators
ยฃ20โ€“ยฃ1,499Price Range
75 minโ€“17 daysDuration
Spring 2026 Discount Codes
๐Ÿฎ Hairy Coo โ€” 15% off all April departures ๐ŸŸข Rabbie's โ€” 20% off with code SS20

Top Picks

Hand-selected tours offering the best value, highest ratings, or most unique experiences across all operators.

TOP PICK
Hop On ยฃ34

Grand Tour โ€” 24h All Routes

Edinburgh Bus Tours

Unlimited hop-on hop-off across all three routes for a full day โ€” best value city bus pass.

All Red + Green + Blue stops โ†’ Edinburgh Castle area โ†’ Royal Yacht Britannia โ†’ Calton Hill โ†’ Arthur's Seat views
โฑ 24 hours ๐Ÿ• All 3 routes unlimited ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.4 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Hop On ยฃ75

Royal Edinburgh Ticket

Edinburgh Bus Tours

The ultimate combo: 48h unlimited bus + Edinburgh's three royal attractions. Saves roughly ยฃ25 vs separate tickets.

All 3 bus routes โ†’ Edinburgh Castle admission โ†’ Palace of Holyroodhouse admission โ†’ Royal Yacht Britannia admission
โฑ 48 hours ๐Ÿ• All routes + 3 attractions ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Lochness ยฃ72

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Rabbie's #1 bestseller. Optional Loch Ness boat cruise. Returns via the Cairngorms and Perthshire.

Stirling Castle (view) โ†’ Rannoch Moor โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Outlander ยฃ74

Outlander Adventure

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Visit the real filming locations with a guide who knows every scene. Outlander fans consistently rate this 5 stars.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) โ†’ Blackness Castle โ†’ Linlithgow Palace โ†’ Culross (Cranesmuir) โ†’ Doune Castle
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Skye ยฃ319

Isle of Skye 3-Day Adventure

Rabbie's Trail Burners

The definitive Skye experience. Book 4โ€“6 weeks ahead โ€” it sells out every season.

Glen Coe โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle โ†’ Portree โ†’ Old Man of Storr โ†’ Trotternish Peninsula
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Lochness ยฃ56

Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands

The Hairy Coo

Best-value Loch Ness day trip from Edinburgh. Same quality as competitors, ยฃ16 cheaper.

Rannoch Moor โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 7:45am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Highlands ยฃ46

Stirling Castle, Kelpies & Loch Lomond

The Hairy Coo

Three iconic landmarks at an unbeatable price. Perfect shorter day trip โ€” back by 6pm.

Stirling Castle โ†’ The Kelpies โ†’ Loch Lomond โ†’ The Trossachs โ†’ Callander
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Skye ยฃ189

Isle of Skye & Highlands โ€” 3 Day

The Hairy Coo

Hairy Coo's crown jewel โ€” incredible value for 3 days exploring Skye and the Highlands.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Portree โ†’ Old Man of Storr โ†’ Trotternish โ†’ Inverness
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 7:45am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’

Route Maps

Visual guides to the most popular tour routes departing from Edinburgh.

City Sightseeing Red Route
City Sightseeing Red Route
Loch Ness & Highlands
Loch Ness & Highlands
Isle of Skye 3-Day Circuit
Isle of Skye 3-Day Circuit
St Andrews & Fife Coast
St Andrews & Fife Coast
Outlander Filming Locations
Outlander Filming Locations
West Highlands & Oban
West Highlands & Oban

All 75 Tours

Every bus tour departing from Edinburgh. Filter by category or search by name, operator, or destination.

Showing 75 of 75 tours

Hop On ยฃ20

City Sightseeing (Red Route)

Edinburgh Bus Tours

14-stop circuit through the Old Town with multilingual audio commentary on open-top double-deckers.

Edinburgh Castle โ†’ Grassmarket โ†’ Royal Mile โ†’ Greyfriars Bobby โ†’ National Museum of Scotland
โฑ 75 min loop ๐Ÿ• Every 20 min, 9:30amโ€“5pm ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.2 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ20

Edinburgh Tour (Green Route)

Edinburgh Bus Tours

The only route with a live English-speaking guide on every bus โ€” entertaining and informative.

Calton Hill โ†’ Palace of Holyroodhouse โ†’ New Town โ†’ Princes Street โ†’ Scott Monument
โฑ 70 min loop ๐Ÿ• Every 25 min, 9:45amโ€“4:30pm ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.3 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ20

Regal Tour (Blue Route)

Edinburgh Bus Tours

The only hop-on route reaching the Royal Yacht Britannia and the regenerated port of Leith.

Palace of Holyroodhouse โ†’ Royal Yacht Britannia โ†’ Leith Shore โ†’ Ocean Terminal โ†’ Newhaven Harbour
โฑ 80 min loop ๐Ÿ• Every 30 min, 10amโ€“4pm ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.3 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Hop On ยฃ34

Grand Tour โ€” 24h All Routes

Edinburgh Bus Tours

Unlimited hop-on hop-off across all three routes for a full day โ€” best value city bus pass.

All Red + Green + Blue stops โ†’ Edinburgh Castle area โ†’ Royal Yacht Britannia โ†’ Calton Hill โ†’ Arthur's Seat views
โฑ 24 hours ๐Ÿ• All 3 routes unlimited ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.4 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Hop On ยฃ75

Royal Edinburgh Ticket

Edinburgh Bus Tours

The ultimate combo: 48h unlimited bus + Edinburgh's three royal attractions. Saves roughly ยฃ25 vs separate tickets.

All 3 bus routes โ†’ Edinburgh Castle admission โ†’ Palace of Holyroodhouse admission โ†’ Royal Yacht Britannia admission
โฑ 48 hours ๐Ÿ• All routes + 3 attractions ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ22

Majestic Tour (Seasonal)

Edinburgh Bus Tours

Seasonal fourth route venturing north through Stockbridge to the Royal Botanic Garden.

Royal Botanic Garden โ†’ Stockbridge โ†’ Inverleith โ†’ New Town โ†’ Comely Bank
โฑ 90 min loop ๐Ÿ• Seasonal, check schedule ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.3 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ26

Big Bus Classic Tour

Big Bus Tours Edinburgh

Global hop-on hop-off brand with 15+ stops and multi-language recorded commentary.

Edinburgh Castle โ†’ Royal Mile โ†’ Grassmarket โ†’ Holyrood โ†’ Calton Hill
โฑ 90 min loop ๐Ÿ• Every 20 min, 9:30amโ€“5pm ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.2 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ34

Big Bus 24h Discovery Pass

Big Bus Tours Edinburgh

Full-day access with bonus walking tour voucher included in the ticket price.

All city stops โ†’ Walking tour voucher โ†’ Audio guide โ†’ Free Wi-Fi on selected buses
โฑ 24 hours ๐Ÿ• All routes ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.2 Book โ†’
Hop On ยฃ42

Big Bus 48h Premium Pass

Big Bus Tours Edinburgh

Two full days of unlimited travel with priority boarding at busy stops.

All city stops โ†’ Priority boarding โ†’ Extended evening service โ†’ Walking tour voucher
โฑ 48 hours ๐Ÿ• All routes + extras ๐Ÿ‘ฅ 50+
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† 4.3 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Lochness ยฃ72

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Rabbie's #1 bestseller. Optional Loch Ness boat cruise. Returns via the Cairngorms and Perthshire.

Stirling Castle (view) โ†’ Rannoch Moor โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ67

St Andrews & Fishing Villages of Fife

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Charming fishing villages, the home of golf, and some of Scotland's best fish & chips in Anstruther.

Forth Bridge views โ†’ Fife coastal path โ†’ Anstruther โ†’ St Andrews Castle โ†’ Old Course
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ72

West Highlands, Lochs & Castles

Rabbie's Trail Burners

West-coast drama through Scotland's first national park to the shores of Loch Fyne.

Loch Lomond โ†’ Trossachs National Park โ†’ Inveraray Castle โ†’ Rest and Be Thankful โ†’ Loch Fyne
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ67

Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Three iconic landmarks in one easy day โ€” the perfect gentle introduction to Scotland beyond Edinburgh.

Stirling Castle โ†’ The Kelpies โ†’ Loch Lomond โ†’ Trossachs โ†’ Callander
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Outlander ยฃ74

Outlander Adventure

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Visit the real filming locations with a guide who knows every scene. Outlander fans consistently rate this 5 stars.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) โ†’ Blackness Castle โ†’ Linlithgow Palace โ†’ Culross (Cranesmuir) โ†’ Doune Castle
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ72

Glenfinnan Viaduct & Fort William

Rabbie's Trail Burners

The iconic Harry Potter bridge. Time your visit to watch the Jacobite steam train cross the viaduct.

Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Fort William โ†’ Ben Nevis viewpoint โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 11 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ74

Highland Lochs, Castles & Whisky

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Malt whisky country through magnificent Cairngorms scenery with a distillery tasting included.

Blair Castle โ†’ Pitlochry โ†’ Dalwhinnie Distillery โ†’ Cairngorms โ†’ Highland Perthshire
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Thu/Sat 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ67

Whisky, Borders & Rosslyn Chapel

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Lowland single malt at Glenkinchie plus the Da Vinci Code's Rosslyn Chapel โ€” history and whisky in one day.

Glenkinchie Distillery โ†’ Rosslyn Chapel โ†’ Scottish Borders โ†’ Melrose Abbey โ†’ Tweed Valley
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Wed/Fri/Sun 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ67

Alnwick Castle & the Borders

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Cross into England for Hogwarts' real exterior โ€” Alnwick Castle โ€” plus Lindisfarne if the tide allows.

Alnwick Castle (Harry Potter) โ†’ Holy Island (tide permitting) โ†’ Scottish Borders โ†’ Berwick-upon-Tweed
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Sat 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Skye ยฃ319

Isle of Skye 3-Day Adventure

Rabbie's Trail Burners

The definitive Skye experience. Book 4โ€“6 weeks ahead โ€” it sells out every season.

Glen Coe โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle โ†’ Portree โ†’ Old Man of Storr โ†’ Trotternish Peninsula
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Skye ยฃ325

Isle of Skye & Loch Ness 3-Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Two bucket-list destinations combined. Overnights in Highland B&Bs with breakfast included.

Loch Ness โ†’ Urquhart Castle โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Isle of Skye โ†’ Inverness
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Tue/Thu/Sat 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ379

Magical Mull, Iona & West Highlands โ€” 4 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Sacred Iona, dramatic Staffa sea caves, and the wildlife-rich Isle of Mull. A spiritual Scottish journey.

Oban โ†’ Isle of Mull โ†’ Iona Abbey โ†’ Staffa / Fingal's Cave โ†’ Loch Lomond
โฑ 4 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ479

Orkney & North Coast 500 โ€” 5 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

5,000-year-old Neolithic wonders on remote Orkney, plus sections of the legendary NC500.

Skara Brae (UNESCO) โ†’ Ring of Brodgar โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Culloden โ†’ North Coast 500
โฑ 5 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ449

Iona, Mull & Isle of Skye โ€” 5 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Triple-island odyssey through Scotland's most magical western isles with ferry crossings.

Isle of Iona โ†’ Isle of Mull โ†’ Isle of Skye โ†’ Oban โ†’ Portree
โฑ 5 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ699

Scottish Islands 8-Day Explorer

Rabbie's Trail Burners

The ultimate island-hopping odyssey. Islay whisky, Skye landscapes, Iona spirituality, Mull wildlife.

Islay distilleries โ†’ Isle of Skye โ†’ Iona โ†’ Mull โ†’ Oban
โฑ 8 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ789

Best of Scotland โ€” 9 Day Grand Tour

Rabbie's Trail Burners

If you only do one Scotland trip in your lifetime, make it this one. Covers virtually every highlight.

Skye โ†’ Orkney โ†’ Highlands โ†’ Iona โ†’ Mull
โฑ 9 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ549

Highlands, Skye & Orkney โ€” 6 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Skye's fairy-tale landscapes and Orkney's ancient stones in one extended Highland circuit.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Orkney Islands โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Culloden โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 6 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ1249

Scottish Island Hopping โ€” 14 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

The grand two-week island adventure โ€” Outer Hebrides, Orkney, Skye, and everything in between.

Hebrides โ†’ Orkney โ†’ Outer Hebrides โ†’ Skye โ†’ Mull
โฑ 14 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ1499

Best of Scottish Islands โ€” 17 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Rabbie's most comprehensive tour. 17 days covering every major Scottish island group.

Islay โ†’ Iona โ†’ Mull โ†’ Skye โ†’ Orkney
โฑ 17 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Lochness ยฃ56

Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands

The Hairy Coo

Best-value Loch Ness day trip from Edinburgh. Same quality as competitors, ยฃ16 cheaper.

Rannoch Moor โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 7:45am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Highlands ยฃ46

Stirling Castle, Kelpies & Loch Lomond

The Hairy Coo

Three iconic landmarks at an unbeatable price. Perfect shorter day trip โ€” back by 6pm.

Stirling Castle โ†’ The Kelpies โ†’ Loch Lomond โ†’ The Trossachs โ†’ Callander
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ56

Glenfinnan Viaduct & Highlands

The Hairy Coo

Harry Potter fans โ€” the viaduct is even more breathtaking in person than on screen.

Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Fort William โ†’ Ben Nevis area โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ60

Oban, Glencoe & West Highlands

The Hairy Coo

Scotland's seafood capital plus dramatic west-coast scenery. Free time to explore Oban harbour.

Oban harbour โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Kilchurn Castle ruins โ†’ Loch Awe โ†’ Rest and Be Thankful pass
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:15am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ52

St Andrews & East Neuk of Fife

The Hairy Coo

Fish & chips in Anstruther (voted Scotland's best) and the hallowed fairways of the Old Course.

St Andrews โ†’ East Neuk villages โ†’ Anstruther โ†’ Falkland Palace โ†’ Forth Bridge views
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Outlander ยฃ58

Outlander Filming Locations

The Hairy Coo

Lallybroch, Fort William, and Cranesmuir โ€” brought to life by passionate Outlander-expert guides.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) โ†’ Blackness Castle โ†’ Linlithgow Palace โ†’ Culross โ†’ Bo'ness
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Thu/Sat 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ125

Loch Ness & Glenfinnan โ€” 2 Day

The Hairy Coo

Wake up in the Highlands. Overnight B&B with breakfast, two full days of scenery.

Loch Ness โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Highland B&B โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Multiple dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ155

Oban & West Highlands โ€” 2 Day

The Hairy Coo

Coastal charm meets Highland drama. Relaxed two-day pace with an overnight in the west.

Oban โ†’ Glenfinnan โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Loch Lomond โ†’ Highland B&B
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
TOP PICK
Skye ยฃ189

Isle of Skye & Highlands โ€” 3 Day

The Hairy Coo

Hairy Coo's crown jewel โ€” incredible value for 3 days exploring Skye and the Highlands.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Portree โ†’ Old Man of Storr โ†’ Trotternish โ†’ Inverness
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 7:45am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ379

Skye, Oban & NW Highlands โ€” 5 Day

The Hairy Coo

The complete Scottish experience: castles, islands, whisky, lochs, and Highland magic.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Oban โ†’ St Andrews โ†’ Cairngorms โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle
โฑ 5 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ48

Rosslyn Chapel & Scottish Borders

The Hairy Coo

The shortest day trip option. The Da Vinci Code's Rosslyn Chapel plus a Lowland whisky tasting.

Rosslyn Chapel โ†’ Glenkinchie Distillery โ†’ Scottish Borders โ†’ Melrose Abbey
โฑ 8 hours ๐Ÿ• Wed/Sat 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Lochness ยฃ56

Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands

Timberbush Tours

Timberbush flagship. Earliest departure means you beat the crowds to Glen Coe.

Glen Coe โ†’ Rannoch Moor โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 7:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ53

St Andrews & Fishing Villages

Timberbush Tours

Walk the hallowed Old Course fairways and explore picturesque Fife fishing villages.

St Andrews โ†’ Old Course โ†’ East Neuk fishing villages โ†’ Fife coast โ†’ Forth bridges
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ54

Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles

Timberbush Tours

Two stunning castles and Scotland's seafood capital โ€” one of the best-value west-coast trips.

Oban โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Inveraray Castle โ†’ Kilchurn Castle โ†’ Loch Awe
โฑ 11 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ61

Glenfinnan, Fort William & Glencoe

Timberbush Tours

The Harry Potter viaduct on a 29-seat coach โ€” easier to book for larger travel parties.

Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Fort William โ†’ Ben Nevis โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ43

Rosslyn Chapel & Scottish Borders

Timberbush Tours

The most affordable day trip. Rosslyn Chapel, Lowland whisky, and the gentle Scottish Borders.

Rosslyn Chapel โ†’ Glenkinchie Distillery โ†’ Scottish Borders โ†’ Melrose Abbey
โฑ 8 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ64

Black Isle Brewery & Dolphin Coast

Timberbush Tours

Craft beer, wild bottlenose dolphins, and rugged Highland coastline โ€” a unique combination.

Black Isle Brewery โ†’ Cromarty Firth โ†’ Bottlenose dolphins โ†’ Highland wildlife โ†’ Inverness area
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Thu/Sat 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ52

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies

Timberbush Tours

Scotland's greatest hits condensed into one satisfying day at a fair price.

Loch Lomond โ†’ Trossachs โ†’ Stirling Castle โ†’ The Kelpies โ†’ Callander
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ59

Highland Perthshire & Whisky

Timberbush Tours

Visit Edradour โ€” Scotland's smallest distillery making just 12 casks a week by hand.

Pitlochry โ†’ Blair Castle โ†’ Edradour Distillery โ†’ Highland Perthshire โ†’ Dunkeld
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Thu/Sun 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Outlander ยฃ58

Outlander Experience

Timberbush Tours

All the key Outlander filming locations on a comfortable coach with knowledgeable guides.

Midhope Castle โ†’ Blackness Castle โ†’ Linlithgow Palace โ†’ Culross โ†’ Doune Castle
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Sat 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ129

Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan โ€” 2 Day

Timberbush Tours

Scotland's most photographed castle plus a Loch Ness overnight โ€” great value 2-day trip.

Eilean Donan Castle โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Highland B&B
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Skye ยฃ159

Isle of Skye & Fairy Pools โ€” 2 Day

Timberbush Tours

Swim in the crystal-clear Fairy Pools โ€” brave souls only in spring! Includes B&B accommodation.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Fairy Pools โ†’ Portree โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle โ†’ Highland B&B
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Skye ยฃ199

Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness โ€” 3 Day

Timberbush Tours

Three days of Highland grandeur at an excellent price point. B&B accommodation included.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Lochness ยฃ69

Loch Ness Explorer

Highland Explorer Tours

Expert Highland guides share stories you won't find in any guidebook.

Glen Coe โ†’ Rannoch Moor โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 12.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 7:45am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ59

Loch Lomond, Stirling & Kelpies

Highland Explorer Tours

Three icons of central Scotland with a charismatic guide who brings Braveheart history alive.

Loch Lomond โ†’ Stirling Castle โ†’ The Kelpies โ†’ Trossachs โ†’ Callander
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ65

Ben Nevis & Glen Coe Explorer

Highland Explorer Tours

Stand in the shadow of Britain's highest peak, then cross the legendary Glen of Weeping.

Fort William โ†’ Ben Nevis โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 11 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ59

St Andrews & Kingdom of Fife

Highland Explorer Tours

Coastal charm and golfing heritage on Scotland's beautiful east coast.

St Andrews โ†’ Old Course โ†’ East Neuk โ†’ Anstruther โ†’ Fife coast
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Outlander ยฃ65

Outlander & Castles

Highland Explorer Tours

Expert Outlander commentary from guides who've watched every episode multiple times.

Doune Castle โ†’ Blackness Castle โ†’ Linlithgow Palace โ†’ Culross โ†’ Midhope Castle
โฑ 9.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Sat 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Skye ยฃ229

Isle of Skye & Highlands โ€” 3 Day

Highland Explorer Tours

Small-group Skye adventure with handpicked Highland accommodation.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Old Man of Storr โ†’ Quiraing โ†’ Portree โ†’ Eilean Donan
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Mon/Thu 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ449

Skye & Far North โ€” 5 Day

Highland Explorer Tours

From Culloden battlefield to Skye's fairy-tale landscapes โ€” five days of Scottish history and nature.

Cairngorms โ†’ Perthshire โ†’ Culloden โ†’ Isle of Skye โ†’ North Highlands
โฑ 5 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 Book โ†’
Islands ยฃ699

Skye, Orkney & NC500 โ€” 8 Day

Highland Explorer Tours

The grand tour โ€” NC500, Orkney's ancient sites, and Skye in one epic eight-day adventure.

Orkney Islands โ†’ Skara Brae โ†’ Isle of Skye โ†’ North Coast 500 โ†’ Perthshire
โฑ 8 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.9 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ149

Loch Ness & Inverness โ€” 2 Day

Highland Explorer Tours

Overnight in the Highland capital. Visit Loch Ness, Culloden, and the Cairngorms at a relaxed pace.

Loch Ness โ†’ Urquhart Castle โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Culloden Battlefield โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ52

Highland Lochs & Whisky

Heart of Scotland Tours

Whisky tasting included in the price. A dram in the Highlands with passionate guides.

Loch Lomond โ†’ Trossachs โ†’ Highland distillery โ†’ Callander โ†’ Doune Castle
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Lochness ยฃ56

Loch Ness & Highlands

Heart of Scotland Tours

Friendly guides who go the extra mile โ€” literally and figuratively โ€” to make your day special.

Glen Coe โ†’ Fort Augustus โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Cairngorms โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 12 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ49

Stirling Castle & Highlands

Heart of Scotland Tours

Braveheart country. Stand where William Wallace made his stand at Stirling Bridge.

Stirling Castle โ†’ Wallace Monument โ†’ Doune Castle โ†’ Callander โ†’ Trossachs
โฑ 8.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Daily 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ48

Borders, Burns & Whisky

Heart of Scotland Tours

Robert Burns heritage meets Lowland single malt. A poet's dram in rolling Border countryside.

Glenkinchie Distillery โ†’ Scottish Borders โ†’ Melrose Abbey โ†’ Tweed Valley โ†’ Burns country
โฑ 8 hours ๐Ÿ• Wed/Fri/Sun 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Skye ยฃ249

Isle of Skye โ€” 3 Day

Heart of Scotland Tours

Budget-friendly 3-day Skye trip without compromising on experience or comfort.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Eilean Donan Castle โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Portree โ†’ Old Man of Storr
โฑ 3 days ๐Ÿ• Tue/Sat 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Coastal ยฃ55

Oban & West Highlands

Heart of Scotland Tours

Seafood in Oban, castle ruins on Loch Awe, and the dramatic Rest and Be Thankful pass.

Oban โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Kilchurn Castle โ†’ Loch Awe โ†’ Rest and Be Thankful
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Thu/Sat 8:15am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ58

Glenfinnan & Ben Nevis

Heart of Scotland Tours

The Harry Potter viaduct and Britain's highest mountain โ€” two icons in one fantastic day.

Glenfinnan Viaduct โ†’ Fort William โ†’ Ben Nevis โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Rannoch Moor
โฑ 10.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Tue/Fri/Sun 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ62

Alnwick Castle & Northumberland

Heart of Scotland Tours

Cross the border into England for Hogwarts' real exterior and the magical Alnwick Garden.

Alnwick Castle โ†’ Alnwick Garden โ†’ Holy Island (tide) โ†’ Berwick-upon-Tweed โ†’ Borders
โฑ 10 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ169

Loch Ness, Inverness & Culloden โ€” 2 Day

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Overnight in Inverness with time to explore the Highland capital and visit haunting Culloden.

Loch Ness โ†’ Urquhart Castle โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Culloden Battlefield โ†’ Cairngorms
โฑ 2 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ65

Edinburgh Gin & Whisky Experience

Rabbie's Trail Burners

Not a walking tour โ€” minibus to multiple distillery and tasting venues in and around Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Gin Distillery โ†’ Royal Mile tasting room โ†’ Whisky heritage centre โ†’ Scotch tasting
โฑ 8 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 9:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ62

North Highlands & Dunrobin Castle

Timberbush Tours

Scotland's fairy-tale castle Dunrobin โ€” a French chateau transported to the Highland coast.

Dunrobin Castle โ†’ Dornoch โ†’ Highland scenery โ†’ Black Isle โ†’ Inverness
โฑ 11 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Thu 7:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Multi ยฃ349

Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness โ€” 5 Day

Timberbush Tours

Five days covering all the major Highland highlights at a competitive price with B&B included.

Isle of Skye โ†’ Loch Ness โ†’ Glen Coe โ†’ Inverness โ†’ Eilean Donan
โฑ 5 days ๐Ÿ• Select dates ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 29
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ55

Highland Whisky & Castles

The Hairy Coo

Whisky tasting at Deanston plus the Outlander/Monty Python castle at Doune โ€” fun and boozy.

Deanston Distillery โ†’ Doune Castle โ†’ Callander โ†’ Trossachs โ†’ Loch Lomond
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Wed/Fri 8:30am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 Book โ†’
Whisky ยฃ62

Whisky & Highland Castles

Highland Explorer Tours

Highland malt country through the Cairngorms with a distillery tour and tasting included.

Dalwhinnie Distillery โ†’ Blair Castle โ†’ Cairngorms โ†’ Pitlochry โ†’ Highland Perthshire
โฑ 9 hours ๐Ÿ• Wed/Sat 9:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’
Highlands ยฃ65

Alnwick Castle & Holy Island

Highland Explorer Tours

Cross into England for the real Hogwarts exterior and mystical Holy Island โ€” tide permitting.

Alnwick Castle โ†’ Alnwick Garden โ†’ Holy Island (tide) โ†’ Berwick-upon-Tweed โ†’ Scottish Borders
โฑ 10.5 hours ๐Ÿ• Mon/Thu 8:00am ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Max 16
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.5 Book โ†’

Operator Comparison

Compare all 7 operators at a glance โ€” type, ratings, prices, group sizes, and review volume.

OperatorVehicle TypeToursPricesGroupRatingReviews
Edinburgh Bus Tours Hop-On Hop-Off 6 ยฃ20โ€“ยฃ75 Open-deck (50+) โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.3 8,420
Rabbie's Trail Burners Small-Group Mini-Coach (max 16) 21 ยฃ65โ€“ยฃ1499 Max 16 โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.7 12,850
The Hairy Coo Small-Group Mini-Coach (max 16) 12 ยฃ46โ€“ยฃ379 Max 16 โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.8 9,640
Timberbush Tours Mid-Size Coach (max 29) 14 ยฃ43โ€“ยฃ349 Max 29 โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 7,230
Highland Explorer Tours Small-Group Mini-Coach (max 16) 11 ยฃ59โ€“ยฃ699 Max 16 โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 5,180
Heart of Scotland Tours Small-Group Mini-Coach (max 16) 8 ยฃ48โ€“ยฃ249 Max 16 โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…ยฝ 4.6 4,520
Big Bus Tours Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off 3 ยฃ26โ€“ยฃ42 Open-deck (50+) โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.2 3,200

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before booking a bus tour from Edinburgh.

When to Book

Spring (Aprilโ€“May) offers longer daylight, fewer crowds, and promotional pricing. Summer (Juneโ€“August) is peak season โ€” book multi-day Isle of Skye tours 4โ€“6 weeks ahead. Winter tours operate with shorter days but dramatic light.

Departure Points

  • Edinburgh Bus Tours / Big Bus: Waverley Bridge
  • Rabbie's: 22 Rose Street
  • Hairy Coo: Burns Monument, Regent Road
  • Timberbush: Castle Terrace
  • Highland Explorer: Central Edinburgh
  • Heart of Scotland: Waterloo Place

Budget Tips

Hairy Coo offers the cheapest Highland day trips from ยฃ46. The Royal Edinburgh Ticket (ยฃ75) saves ~ยฃ25 vs separate bus + attractions. Multi-day tour prices include B&B accommodation but not meals. Use the spring discount codes above for additional savings.

What to Pack

Scotland's weather shifts fast โ€” waterproof layers year-round. Comfortable walking shoes essential. Highland day trips involve short walks at stops. Bring snacks for 12+ hour days as lunch stops can be limited. Motion sickness tablets for winding single-track roads.

Choosing a Group Size

Max 16 (Rabbie's, Hairy Coo, Highland Explorer, Heart of Scotland): More intimate, guaranteed window seat, accesses single-track roads. Max 29 (Timberbush): Slightly bigger, still personal, often cheaper. 50+ (hop-on hop-off): Flexible schedule, city coverage.

Accessibility

Hop-on hop-off buses have wheelchair access on the lower deck. 16-seat mini-coaches are generally not wheelchair accessible. Contact operators directly for specific mobility, hearing, or visual accessibility needs.

โš  Isle of Skye is NOT a Day Trip

Skye is a 5+ hour drive each way from Edinburgh. A "day trip" means 10+ hours on a bus with zero meaningful time on the island. The minimum is 2 days; 3 days is strongly recommended to see the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and Portree. Every operator listed here offers Skye only as a multi-day tour โ€” that's the honest way to do it.