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Uncover Scotland’s Wild Beauty
From the Highlands to the Isles, experience Scotland with the experts
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Experience the best of stunning Scotland

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Scottish Highlands
Loch Lomond & the Scottish Highlands
6 days from £999 pp £899 pp
  • Journey to the heart of the Highlands and ride the legendary Jacobite Steam Train
  • Set sail on a Loch Lomond cruise, and enjoy a journey on the scenic West Highland Line
  • Stay in the serene village of Crianlarich, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days from £1,099 pp £999 pp
  • Explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands, staying in luxurious 4-Star hotels
  • Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a scenic journey to Mallaig
  • Enjoy a trip along the stunning Kyle Line to view Eilean Donan Castle
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
6 days from £949 pp
  • Enjoy Edinburgh before exploring Scotland's lochs, mountains and glens
  • Travel the West Highland Line on the world famous Jacobite Steam Train
  • Spend 5 nights in 3-star hotels in Edinburgh and Blair Atholl
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Scotland holidays

Scotland doesn't waste an inch of its mountainous area in order to delight and impress visitors. The space between beautiful and historic cities such as Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dundee is filled with the breath-taking mountains, lochs, glens and valleys that have inspired poets, artists and visitors for hundreds of years.

Wild and unspoilt, Scotland's landscapes are timeless, and few pleasures can compare with stepping aboard a magnificently-restored steam train and gently rolling through the dramatic heather-clad hills of the Scottish Highlands.

In truth Scotland is packed with unique and unforgettable experiences. Here you can search for a pre-historic monster that lurks beneath the placid surface of Loch Ness. You can visit one of Scotland's iconic distilleries and sample the finest single-malt whiskies in the world. Take a cruise to the ruggedly pretty Hebridean Islands, Orkney or Shetland. Witness the spectacle of the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These are just a few of the countless pleasures that are you'll enjoy on an escorted rail holiday in Scotland with Great Rail Journeys.

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Holiday Ideas for Scotland

ClassicClassic
Scottish Highlands
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.3 stars(544 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,199 pp
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ClassicClassic
Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
4.4 stars(79 reviews)
2025Sep
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The Callanish Stones
Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
4.1 stars(47 reviews)
2026AprJulSep
8 days from
£1,999 pp
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ClassicClassic
Ring of Brodgar
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
4.1 stars(81 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
8 days from
£2,599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Edinburgh Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
4.5 stars(42 reviews)
2026Aug
4 days from
£899 pp
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The Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(283 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Scottish Highlands
Save £100pp
Loch Lomond & the Scottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Fort William & the West Highlands
4.2 stars(25 reviews)
2026MayJunSepOct
7 days from
£1,799 pp
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Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Ring of Brodgar
Orkney
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle
Shetland
Shetland

20 results matching: Scotland

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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(283 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

On a captivating holiday through Scotland, uncover the best of Edinburgh and the Highlands in a perfect blend of iconic railways, grand castles and breathtaking scenery. Take in the historic sights of Edinburgh and enjoy a nostalgic trip on the Jacobite steam train, widely considered to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. ...

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6 days from
£949 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.3 stars(544 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Majestic lochs, glorious glens and a rich tapestry of history await as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Travelling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle railway lines, we discover ancient castles, sail across glimmering lochs, and stay in historic cities. Wander the fascinating streets of Edinburgh, stand at the foot of Neptune's...

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9 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save £100pp
Loch Lomond & the Scottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep

Journey to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, taking in the marvellous lochs and glens this part of the world is famous for. Our holiday begins amongst the cultural richness of Glasgow before we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands aboard the West Highland Line and set sail on stunning Loch Lomond. Staying in the...

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6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
per person
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Ring of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of Brodgar
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
4.1 stars(81 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Uncover atmospheric castles, ancient archaeological sites and captivating wildlife in Orkney and Shetland. This magnificent Northern Isles holiday takes us from Edinburgh to the Granite City of Aberdeen and by ferry to Shetland and Orkney, before visiting Inverness. Encounters with Shetland ponies, seals and otters introduce us to the islands'...

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8 days from
£2,599 pp
per person
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The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
4.1 stars(47 reviews)
2026AprJulSep

Discover the wild charm of the Outer Hebrides and the Scottish Highlands on this culture-packed eight-day tour. Journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, as historic castles, fishing villages and breathtaking natural beauty set the scene. Explore Edinburgh, witness the wonder of modern engineering at the Falkirk Wheel, and experience one of...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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The Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan Weaver
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Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
3.7 stars(46 reviews)
2025Sep

We visit three of Scotland's most charismatic cities, experiencing the local culture of Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. Visit Glamis Castle and journey along the banks of the River Dee aboard the Royal Deeside Railway. This five-day holiday is scattered with unique excursions. Meet iconic Highland coos, savour the craft of gin at the Lost Loch...

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5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
4.4 stars(75 reviews)
2026Aug

Discover the spirit of Scotland on this four-day holiday, offering the perfect blend of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. From the exciting spectacle of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to a unique journey on the Falkirk Wheel, each day offers something memorable. Explore the magnificent Floors Castle and its gardens after a...

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4 days from
£799 pp
per person
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EdinburghEdinburghEdinburghEdinburghEdinburgh
Edinburgh, Fort William & the West Highlands
4.2 stars(25 reviews)
2026MayJunSepOct

Experience the beauty of Scotland and its culture at every turn on a week-long adventure. See the contrasts between city and countryside while exploring Edinburgh and travelling aboard the scenic West Highland Line and famous Jacobite Steam Train into sensational Scottish landscapes. Staying in historic Fort William, wander the rainbow streets of...

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7 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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LuxuryLuxury
The Royal Scotsman - Scotch Malt Whisky Trail

The ultimate treat for connoisseurs, this journey in partnership with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society - the world's foremost malt whisky club - combines fascinating tours with delicious tastings. As specialists in single malt whiskies, the Scotch Malt Whisky Society is the perfect partner for this special journey through Scotland.

6 days from
£9,315 pp
per person
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A Scottish ChristmasA Scottish ChristmasA Scottish ChristmasA Scottish Christmas
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A Scottish Christmas
4.1 stars(26 reviews)
2025Dec

Make it a truly merry Christmas on this festive Scotland holiday. Celebrate in Inverness with hearty food, warming drinks, traditional entertainment and seasonal cheer. Explore Edinburgh, aglow with Christmas spirit, travel through winter scenery aboard the heritage Kyle Line and visit legendary Loch Ness, home to the mysterious Nessie. With...

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7 days
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Skye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild North
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
4.4 stars(79 reviews)
2025Sep

Let the rugged beauty of Scotland capture your heart on this seven-night holiday. Starting in Glasgow, journey through stunning landscapes to Scotland's mystic north. Tour the Orkney Islands and discover ancient Neolithic sites including Skara Brae and marvel at the beauty of the great houses of the northern Highlands, Dunrobin and Dunvegan. ...

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8 days
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The Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer Hebrides
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The Outer Hebrides & the Highlands
3.9 stars(237 reviews)
2025Sep

Wild beauty and ancient wonders await on this holiday to Scotland's Outer Hebrides - also known as the Western Isles - and the dramatic Scottish Highlands. From the dynamic city of Glasgow, we travel on the world-renowned West Highland Line to Fort William, as a moving picture of mountains, lochs and heather-clad moors unfolds. Set sail on a sea...

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8 days
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Show all 20 tours
Our customers love our Scotland tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
16/Aug
Philip
5 stars
“Excellent Tour
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
13/Aug
Bradbury
5 stars
“I thought I had done this already. It was brilliant!
Collected by Trustpilot
The Outer Hebrides & the Highlands
4/Aug
Sandy Mac
5 stars
“Lots of great experiences including seeing minke whales. Beautiful scenery &
Collected by Trustpilot
Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
2/Aug
J Wylie
5 stars
“It was a very pleasant ride, hopefully the volunteers will eventually be able to restore more of the line. They were very informative and let us look in the engine and provided us with tea and biscuits. Unfortunately we did not experience the steam engine but a different old engine, non...
Collected by Trustpilot
Loch Lomond & the Scottish Highlands
14/Jul
Chris Shaw
5 stars
“5 star, loved the sceneries from boat, coach and train. All carefully planned & well led by Hamas, circulating photos & info. Only negative - would have appreciated more space to stroll around beauty spots after long seatings on transports.
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
29/Jun
Alan Cleghorn
5 stars
“Very well organised and the tour guide was brilliant
Collected by Trustpilot
A Scottish Christmas
4/Jan
Frederick
5 stars
“Beautiful hotels. A great tour manager, and lovely group of people. Overall a lovely experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
19/Aug
JH
4 stars
“Military Tatoo was brilliant, but other visits did not allow enough time to see them properly.
Collected by Trustpilot
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
4/Aug
Kate New
4 stars
“Fast paced tour. Excellent tour guide Denise and local guides to Shetland and Okney
Collected by Trustpilot

Scotland holiday experiences

The Highlands

The Scottish Highlands boast some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Towering mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles characterise this region. Journey through remote beauty on the North Coast or explore the Cairngorms National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning nature and amazing wildlife.

Outer Hebrides

Unearth the magic of the Isles. The Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands on the western edge of Scotland, offer a remote and mystical experience. Discover ancient standing stones, pristine beaches, and Gaelic culture in places like the Isle of Lewis and Stornoway.

Edinburgh

Step into a city steeped in history. Edinburgh, the capital city, is a captivating blend of ancient and modern. Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town and visit the Royal Mile, where you'll find shops, cafes, and street performers.

Serene Isles and Coastlines

Escape to island tranquility. Scotland is adorned with picturesque islands, each offering a unique escape. Visit the Isle of Skye for its rugged beauty or the Orkney and Shetland Islands for a glimpse into Norse history and stunning coastal landscapes.

Scottish Cuisine

In Scotland, you'll find hearty, traditional dishes reflecting the country's rich agricultural and coastal resources. From the iconic haggis, a savoury blend of spices and meats. to exquisite Scotch whisky, Scotland offers flavours like no other. Sample locally sourced salmon, celebrated for its pristine taste, or indulge in the buttery allure of traditional shortbread - a sweet homage to Scottish hospitality. Whether you're exploring charming pubs or upscale restaurants, Scotland's culinary landscape promises a delightful fusion of heritage and innovation.

Scotland's Heritage Trains

Discover the fantastic railways of Scotland. It should come as no surprise that we love railways and we know many of you do too! That's why our tours feature some of the most iconic railways and trains on the continent.

Jacobite Steam train
The Jacobite
West Highland Line
West Highland Line
The Kyle Line
The Kyle Line
Strathspey Steam
Strathspey Steam

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Scotland for a holiday?

The summer months, from June to August, are generally the best time to visit Scotland. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind cooler weather, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can also be delightful.

What should I pack for a trip to Scotland?

Pack layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Include waterproof clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a power adapter for your electronic devices. Don't forget essentials like a sturdy umbrella, and a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

What are some must-visit attractions in Scotland?

Scotland offers a range of attractions. Some must-visit places include Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, the Scottish Highlands, and the historic city of Stirling. Each region has its unique charm and attractions.

What is traditional Scottish cuisine like?

Traditional Scottish dishes include haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), Scotch broth, and, of course, the famous Scotch whisky. Scotland also offers a variety of seafood, including salmon and haddock. Don't miss trying a traditional Scottish breakfast with black pudding and tattie scones.

Are there any cultural events or festivals worth attending?

Scotland hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August is one of the largest arts festivals globally. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, held in August, showcases, military music and performances against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

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