(content by Speedy)
Since 2015, The Traveling Professor has been bringing travelers on unforgettable small group tours to Scotland. With its rolling Highlands, historic castles, charming villages, and vibrant cities, Scotland has become one of our most popular destinations—especially during the mild summer months.
We sat down with Professor Steve Solosky, founder of The Traveling Professor small group tours, to learn what makes his Scotland small group itinerary so special. From Inverness to Edinburgh, here’s what you can expect on this 11-day adventure.
Day 1: Welcome to Inverness
Your journey begins in the capital of the Highlands, Inverness. Guests check in at the elegant Inverness Palace & Spa Hotel, overlooking the scenic River Ness. After meeting fellow travelers, a licensed professional guide leads a walking tour of Inverness, where tales of clans, Jacobite curses, rebellions, and even the Beatles come to life.
Day 2: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Culloden Battlefield
No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to Loch Ness. Travelers enjoy a deluxe cruise across its mysterious waters—sonar-equipped to search for the legendary Nessie. On shore, step inside the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic strongholds. The day ends at Culloden Battlefield, where the 1746 clash between Jacobites and British troops forever changed Highland history.
Day 3: Dunrobin Castle & Glenmorangie Distillery
Travel north along the stunning Scottish coastline to Dunrobin Castle, often called the most beautiful castle in the Highlands. After exploring its majestic gardens and watching an exhilarating falconry demonstration, the group stops at the Glenmorangie Distillery for a guided tasting of world-famous single malt whisky.
Glenmorangie Distillery only accepts a limited number of visitors which is why a small group tour, rather than a large big bus tour, is a better option.
Day 4: Scenic Rail to the Isle of Skye
One of the trip’s highlights is the train ride from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, often described as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. From there, a private driver takes the group on an unforgettable tour of the Isle of Skye, known for its dramatic landscapes and otherworldly beauty. On the way back, stop at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed sites.
Day 5: Free Day in Inverness
The Professor always builds in free time on his small group tours to explore. In Inverness, travelers can stroll through the Victorian Market, browse bookstores, cycle along the canal, or simply enjoy Highland hospitality at a local pub.
Day 6: Journey to Edinburgh
After breakfast, it’s all aboard the train for a scenic ride from the Highlands to Edinburgh. The group checks into the Apex Grassmarket Hotel, located in the heart of the city with Edinburgh Castle towering above.
Day 7: Walking Tour & Edinburgh Castle
The best way to experience Edinburgh is on foot. A professional guide leads the way down the Royal Mile, through St. Giles Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, and Calton Hill. In the afternoon, explore the mighty Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland’s crown jewels and breathtaking city views.
Day 8: St. Andrews Day Trip
Travel to the charming town of St. Andrews, world-famous as the birthplace of golf. But there’s much more—explore the University of St. Andrews, the medieval cathedral ruins, and hidden corners full of history. Golf lovers can visit the Old Course, while others may prefer a stroll on the beach made famous in Chariots of Fire.
Day 9: Abbotsford & Rosslyn Chapel
A private van takes the group south to the Scottish Borders. Visit Abbotsford House, the stately home of Sir Walter Scott, before heading to the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel, immortalized in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.
Day 10: Free Day in Edinburgh
The final full day is yours to enjoy. A Hop-On, Hop-Off bus pass makes it easy to visit sites like the Royal Yacht Britannia and Holyrood Palace. Whether you prefer shopping, museums, or pub-hopping, it’s the perfect way to cap off your time in Edinburgh.
Day 11: Farewell to Scotland
After breakfast, guests depart with new friends and unforgettable memories of their Scotland adventure.
Why Travel to Scotland with The Traveling Professor?
Professor Steve Solosky has been running small group tours to Scotland for a decade, and his carefully curated itinerary strikes the perfect balance of guided experiences and free time. With professional guides, centrally located hotels, and no more than 16 travelers per group, these tours offer the best way to see Scotland stress-free.
