The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary for Groups

Following a 10-day Scotland itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors. That’s plenty of time to explore a couple of vibrant cities, witness the beautiful scenery of the Highlands, and visit an island or two. This detailed step-by-step guide will help you plan the best vacation to the Land of Outlander, Tartan, and Haggis!

With dramatic wild coastlines, fairytale medieval castles, and warm friendly locals, Scotland is a great place for a vacation with extended family or friends. There’s something in this mystical country for everyone. Kids (and big kids) will get excited searching for the Loch Ness Monster. Fans of the Harry Potter films will adore spotting locations in Edinburgh and the Highlands. Music lovers, whisky drinkers (without an ‘e’ here!), outdoorsy people, and history buffs will all love Bonnie Scotland. 

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Rent a Car in Scotland or Tours?

Renting a car means you have complete freedom over your Scotland trip. You can make as many stops and detours as you want. But most rental cars in Scotland have a manual transmission unless you pay an extra fee for an automatic.

Depending on the size of your group, you may need a large vehicle (the country roads are tiny) or even two cars. And, yes, they drive on the left in the UK! Tours might be the best choice if no one in your group is willing to be the driver. 

Fortunately, it’s possible to plan an incredible 10-day Scotland vacation using small-group tours with a local guide. Here are some options:

• Take a 3-day tour from Edinburgh to Inverness and the Isle of Skye with The Hary Coo Tours
• All aboard this one-day tour riding the Jacobite steam train from Edinburgh with Highland Explorer Tours
• Visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and Stirling Castle from Edinburgh with Rabbie’s Tours

Private tours might be a more cost-effective option with a large enough group. Renting a car is still the best way to explore Scotland, but it’s not the only way. Public transport is great if you are sticking to the Central Belt, but patchy once you get into the Scottish Highlands.

10-Day Scotland Itinerary for Families and Friends

Day 1: Arrive in Edinburgh

If you are traveling to Scotland from North America, you will likely fly into Edinburgh Airport. It’s probably a red-eye flight too! Hop on the airport bus shuttle or tram, order an Uber, or organize a private taxi in advance to take you to your hotel (here are some of our favorite Edinburgh hotels for families).

Don’t pick up a rental car yet. You won’t need one to explore Edinburgh. With few hotels offering free parking, high road congestion, and high parking lot charges, it will be a burden.

Edinburgh is Scotland’s ancient capital city and the perfect place to start your 10-day Scotland itinerary. Stay two nights here. After you’ve stored your luggage at your hotel, get out and explore the city center. You will probably be jetlagged and tired, so stick to free activities and just wander around the narrow cobblestone streets. Leave the ticketed activities and tours for your first full day in Edinburgh tomorrow.

First-Day Things To Do in Edinburgh

• Royal Mile – The first thing you should do in Edinburgh is stroll along the Royal Mile. It’s the historic heart of Edinburgh’s UNESCO-certified Old Town. Visit shops and listen to bagpipers.
• Real-life Diagon Alley – Just off the Royal Mile is Victoria Street, the most colorful street in Edinburgh lined with cute gift shops. It was the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books!
• Lunch at Oink or I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger – Grab a pulled pork or artisanal grilled cheese sandwich. Sit and enjoy your casual lunch in Grassmarket on a sunny day. 

Things to Do in Edinburgh in an Afternoon

• Grassmarket – Back in the day, Grassmarket was the square where the city would hang criminals. Today, it’s a lively area with a lot of old taverns like The White Hart Inn. Don’t miss tasting a scoop from Mary’s Milk Bar. It sells the most delicious gelato with unique flavors. Walk up the steps (called ‘The Vennel’) next to the ice cream shop for a beautiful view of Edinburgh Castle. 
• Rub Greyfriar Bobby’s Nose – Walk up Candlemaker Row and stop by a bronze statue of a Skye Terrier dog named Bobby. Legend has it that Bobby was a faithful wee dog living in Edinburgh during the late 19th century. He stayed by his master’s grave for 14 years until Bobby himself perished. Rub this good boy’s nose for good luck.
• National Museum of Scotland – One of the best things about visiting the UK is all the free museums. Take advantage and visit the National Museum of Scotland. It has exhibits on a range of exciting topics for kids and Scottish history for adults. Don’t miss the amazing view of Edinburgh from the roof – few people know it exists.
• Princes Street Garden – Walk to New Town, another UNESCO-certified part of Edinburgh’s city center dating back to the Georgian era. Stroll through the lush Princes Street Garden and see the Scott Monument – dedicated to author Sir Walter Scott – and the Ross Fountain.
• Views from Calton Hill – Cross the road and head to Calton Hill, one of the seven hills of Edinburgh. The best time to visit is at sunset when you’ll be treated to a beautiful view of the city.
• Dinner at Edinburgh Street Food Market – Don’t worry, you will have many opportunities to eat traditional Scottish food! Head to this upmarket food court where the whole group can choose a different cuisine but you can still eat together.
• Live Music at Sandy Bell’s – It’s a fairly small traditional bar, so head there early. There’s nowhere better for live Scottish folk music every night of the week than this old tavern.

Day 2: Full Day Exploring Edinburgh

Now that you have your bearings, it’s finally time to do some of the top activities in Edinburgh. Attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace can get super busy depending on the time of year. Book ahead so you don’t have to wait in long lines and have peace of mind that you can visit when you want. There are discounts for larger groups available. 

Edinburgh is fairly compact for a capital city and most sites are an easy walk apart. However, there are options if someone in your group has limited mobility. Use Uber or the public Lothian bus service. Don’t worry about buying tickets beforehand. Tap your contactless credit or debit card to pay the driver. Follow the route on Google Maps so you know when to press the buzzer.

Second-Day Activities in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Castle – This majestic castle dates back to the 12th century and looks over the city from its perch on top of an extinct volcano. Head there as soon as it opens to explore the castle, National War Museum, and Scottish Crown Jewels without the crowds. Get your Edinburgh Castle tickets here
• The Scotch Whisky Experience – Love Scotch whisky? Don’t miss the 60-minute-long Scottish whisky experience by the castle. This is popular so you will need to book ahead. Get your tickets here
• Lunch at Mum’s Great Comfort Food – Indulge in classic, casual dishes like sausages and mash, pies, and stews. Mum’s caters for a range of dietary requirements.
• St. Giles Cathedral – Continue walking down the Royal Mile and stop by the beautiful (and free) St. Giles Cathedral. Visit at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM for free 45-minute tours.
• Holyrood Palace – Edinburgh Castle is at the top of the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace is at the bottom. This historic building dates back to the 12th century and is owned by the British Royal family. Book ahead to avoid disappointment. Get your tickets here
• Climb Arthur’s Seat – Active travelers will want to climb Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park. It’s an 823 ft-tall extinct volcano and the summit offers the best views out to sea. Some people in your group can head to The World’s End pub if they don’t want to hike.
• Dinner at The Doric Tavern – This 17th-century gastropub serves upmarket Scottish dishes and has an extensive whisky menu. 
• Ghost Tour – Explore Edinburgh after dark to explore hidden closes and hear stories about graverobbers, hangings, the plague, and hauntings… Again, book ahead. Get your ghost tour tickets here

Day 3: Day Trip to St. Andrews

Edinburgh is in such a great location in Scotland’s Central belt. There are dozens of fun and easy day trips from the Scottish capital via train, bus, or tour. One of the best places to visit is the picturesque, seaside town of St. Andrews. You might know it as the Birthplace of Golf or where Prince William met his future wife at university! 

Even if you don’t care for sport or the British Royal family, this small city is perfect for a day trip. Since St. Andrews doesn’t have a train station, I recommend traveling by bus or booking a tour.

Head to Edinburgh Bus Station if you want to take the bus. Direct X59 services to St. Andrews leave multiple times per day and return tickets cost less than £10. Large groups should book in advance to ensure there are enough spaces for everyone. Small groups can usually just buy tickets from the driver. The journey takes around two hours.

Alternatively, you could book a day tour. We recommend this day trip to St. Andrews and Fife fishing villages. 

Things To Do in St. Andrews

• West Sands Beach – This beach is famous for the running scene in Chariots of Fire. Anyone up for a jog? 
• Old Golf Course – Walk beside the ancient golf courses. Just remember to watch out for any flying balls.
• Toppings & Co. Bookshop – This adorable bookshop has ladders on wheels to reach the top shelves and cozy couches. Look through its many books signed by Scottish authors.
• Lunch at Tailhead Fish Restaurant – Taste delicious and traditional British fish and chips for lunch. 
• The University of St. Andrews – Founded in 1413, stroll through the campus of one of the oldest English-speaking universities in the world. 
• St. Andrews Cathedral and Harbor – St. Andrews Cathedral has, unfortunately, fallen to ruin, but the harbor is pretty.
• St. Andrews Castle – Buy tickets and listen to the audio guide as you stroll around the ancient ruins of St. Andrews Castle.

Other Day Trips from Edinburgh

• Outlander Tour – The locations for Jamie Fraser’s Lallybroch, Castle Leoch, Cranesmuir, Wentworth Prison, and more only are a short drive from the Scottish capital. We had a fabulous tour with Andy of Highlander Tours that we highly recommend.
• Stirling Castle – This 12th-century castle and former Royal residence is one of the most important in Scottish history. It’s only 50-minute train journey north of Edinburgh.
• Rosslyn Chapel – Only looking for a half-day trip? The ornate 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel (as seen in The Da Vinci Code) is only a 50-minute bus ride from the city center.

Day 4: Drive to Inverness

Take an Uber or taxi to your rental car pick-up location in Edinburgh (there are many options) and start your 7-day Scotland road trip. Inverness is 157 miles north of Edinburgh. It’s approximately a three-hour drive but could take longer with traffic. Inverness is known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands and it is steeped in rich history… and myth!

Set off as early as possible so you have time to explore sites just outside of Inverness. There are also more things to do in Inverness than you might think. Stay here just one night to see the highlights.

Top Tip: Download an offline map of Scotland on Google Maps. Once you reach the Isle of Skye, there might be some areas where you don’t have a phone signal. This ensures you can still use your GPS to get around. You don’t want to get stuck in rural Scotland!

Fun Stops En Route to Inverness:

• Forth Bridges – Drive over the Forth Road Bridge and look out of your window at the Forth Rail Bridge. It’s a UNESCO site dating back to the Victorian era and a symbol of Edinburgh. 
• Pitlochry – Make your first stop the picturesque town of Pitlochry. Grab some lunch at The Old Mill Inn and stretch your legs before continuing the journey.
• Cairngorms National Park – You’ll drive through the Cairngorms, one of two national parks. This is where you’d find Balmoral Castle, the king’s summer residence. 
• Clava Cairns – These are 4,000-year-old burial cairns and stone circles just outside of Inverness and are free to visit.
• Culloden Battlefield – Just a short drive from Inverness, the 1746 Battle of Culloden was the last major battle fought on British soil. The field is free and open to the public, but I strongly recommend paying the visitor center’s fee to discover more about the Jacobite rebels and their cause.

Things To Do in Inverness:

• Leakey’s Bookshop – This is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Scotland. It’s housed in a former church. Super cool!
• Inverness Castle – While it may not be worth going inside Inverness Castle, the views of the city are worth climbing the hill.
• Dinner at Macgregor’s – This is a laidback Scottish restaurant. Order the cranachan! It’s a traditional fruit, oat, and whisky dessert.

Day 5: Drive to the Isle of Skye

Scotland boasts around 94 inhabited islands out of a total of 790. How are you supposed to pick which to visit on your 10-day Scotland itinerary?! While the Isle of Mull is a popular spot off the west coast, there’s nowhere like the Isle of Skye. Few places have pink coral sands, plunging waterfalls, and otherworldly landscapes. 

Plus, it is one of the easiest islands to reach by car thanks to the Skye Bridge. You don’t have to worry about running behind schedule and missing a ferry. Or, getting stranded because your ferry was canceled due to bad weather. That happens a lot! Book two nights in a hotel near Portree, the island’s biggest town and an ideally located base.

There are 106 miles between Inverness and the Isle of Skye. It’s roughly a two-hour and 30-minute drive. This isn’t too long, but you should still set off early. There are two unmissable activities you should do en route. Plus, if you look ahead at all the best places to visit on Skye, you’ll see it’s a long list! Honestly, it’s impossible to do all of these activities in one day. The earlier you arrive on the Isle of Skye, the better.

Fun Stops En Route to the Isle of Skye:

• Loch Ness Boat Trip – You cannot miss a cruise of Loch Ness on your Scotland tour. What if you’re the one that spots the Loch Ness Monster?! It’s also the largest loch in Scotland by volume. Not only will you get the best views of the loch, but you’ll also sail past the ancient ruins of Urquhart Castle. Several boat tours depart from the harbor at Dochgarroch Lock every day, but book ahead in the peak summer season. Book your Loch Ness boat trip here
• Eilean Donan Castle – This is the second-most photographed castle in Scotland, after Edinburgh Castle of course. It’s a postcard-perfect 13th-century castle on a small islet between three lochs. Again, book a time-slotted ticket if you’d like to cross the bridge and take a peek inside. Book your ticket for Eilean Donan Castle here

Day 6: Explore the Isle of Skye

You’ll want to wake up with the puffins today! There are so many natural wonders on the Isle of Skye that it’s best to start exploring early. Over the last 10 years, the Isle of Skye has become an incredibly popular destination. From April to October, many more tourists than there are parking spaces visit every day. Exploring early (and pre-booking attractions like the distillery and castle) will save you some headaches. 

Note that the Isle of Skye has a lot of one-lane country roads. Yes, some roads are only wide enough for one vehicle. Slow down and use the passing spots. I promise you’ll survive!

Things To Do in the Isle of Skye:

• The Fairy Glen – Several tiny landslips along the edges of small conical hills have given this area a magical appearance. It’s a can’t-miss sight on the Isle of Skye! 
• See the Quiraing – If you don’t have time to hike the Quiraing Circuit, at least drive around the north coast of Skye for the best views of this ancient landslide.  
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls – This island is covered in waterfalls, but Mealt Falls is one of the most spectacular. It’s a 180 ft waterfall that cascades off the Kilt Rock cliff and into the sea.
• Walk The Old Man of Storr – Steep but short, it only takes around 75 minutes to complete the walk up The Old Man of Storr cliff. Its name comes from the narrow, jagged rock at the top of the hill. It’s said to be the giant Storr’s thumb. 
• Lunch at The Oyster Shed – Leave the Trotternish Peninsula and drive to Carbost. Grab a freshly-caught lunch.
• Talisker Distillery – Next door to The Oyster Shed is Talisker Distillery, the oldest whisky distillery on Skye. Book ahead for a guided tour and enjoy the views across Loch Harport.
• Dunvegan Castle – You can’t miss Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle! The ancestral home of Clan MacLeod welcomes guests to tour the house and gardens.
• Neist Point Lighthouse – One of the most iconic views on the Isle of Skye, Neist Point is a 1909 lighthouse on the tip of a rocky causeway. The best view is not near the lighthouse, but from afar so you can appreciate the whole scene. 
• The Fairy Pools – Multiple small waterfalls flow into this pool which shines vibrant blue and green hues in the sunlight. Honestly, it’s a place to only visit in summer as you may be disappointed on a cloudy day.

Day 7: Drive to Fort William

Most people drive from the Isle of Skye to Fort William via Invergarry. You can too, unless you want to watch the Jacobite steam train cross Glenfinnan Viaduct. If so, I recommend the scenic drive south which is around 90 miles but takes approximately three hours. This is only 30 minutes longer than the most direct route. It will be worth it to any Harry Potter fan (I’ll explain soon if you’re not sure what I’m talking about!). 

Fort William is a well-known mountain town. Nature lovers and keen hikers visit Fort William to hike up Ben Nevis which looms over the area. At 4,413 ft, it’s the tallest mountain on the British Isles. Book two nights in Fort William to explore an area filled with the most beautiful scenery.

Things To Do in Fort William:

• Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint – You won’t have time to see the famous Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct if you’re riding the train. So, make sure you catch it the day before! From April – October when there are two services, the train crosses the bridge around 10:45 AM and 3:20 PM.
• Neptune’s Staircase – This is a series of 19th-century canal locks along the Caledonian Canal. There’s a handy parking lot to make this a quick and fun road trip stop. 
• Steall Falls – With a drop of 393 ft, this waterfall is the second-highest in the UK. Park in Glen Nevis and cross a rope bridge to get up close.  
• Ben Nevis Distillery – Joining a guided tour and tasting in this 19th-century whisky distillery is a great experience. You could easily walk from here to your hotel in Fort William so you don’t have to worry about sampling too many drams.  
• Dinner at Black Isle Bar – Black Isle is a contemporary Highland brewery that brews some of the best craft beer in Scotland. Their Fort William bar is housed in a former church and they cook delicious Napoli-style pizzas in their traditional pizza oven.

Day 8: Ride the Jacobite Express

Harry Potter fans already know about the Jacobite Express. It’s the Hogwarts Express from the movies, of course! Well, sort of. It’s a bright red steam train that travels from Fort William train station to the small town of Mallaig over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. It is a famous filming location that appears in several of the Harry Potter movies. The train is called the ‘Jacobite Express’ in real life due to the area’s connections with the Jacobite Rebellion era of Scottish history. 

Anyone can book train tickets to ride this train over the iconic bridge. But you’ll need to book tickets to ride the Harry Potter train as far in advance as possible! Seriously. Let’s say you’re booking tickets for August. Well, by late January all the first-class tickets will have already sold out. Ticket prices are approximately £65 for a standard class return. First-class tickets are almost £100. Book your Jacobite Express tickets here

There are usually two services per day from April to October. Each leg (from Fort William to Mallaig and back) takes around two hours. You get a couple of hours to explore the seaside town of Mallaig, so it’s a full-day activity. I recommend booking the earlier service as the later service doesn’t arrive back in Fort William until after 8:30 PM.

Not a Harry Potter fan and not bothered about riding the Jacobite Express? There are tons of things to do in Fort William and the local area!

Alternative Activities In and Around Fort William

• Hike Ben Nevis – Avid hikers won’t be able to resist attempting to summit Ben Nevis while staying in Fort William. The average time is 7-9 hours, so it’s doable in a day.
• Seal Spotting Cruise – Scotland has an abundance of wildlife, it would be a shame not to see any on your trip! Seal spotting is possible here year-round, but many say fall is the best time.  
• Day Trip to Oban – Explore this resort town on the Scottish coast. Check out McCaig’s Tower & Battery Hill and hop on the two-minute ferry to the Isle of Kerrera.

Day 9: Drive to Edinburgh

It’s almost time to wrap up this 10-day Scotland itinerary! Head back to Edinburgh the day before your flight so you won’t worry about missing it. It’s usually 134 miles and a three-hour drive from Fort William to Edinburgh. However, I’m going to recommend a detour. Drive down the A82 road to see Scotland’s second national park before turning east on the A811 road and finally south on the M9. This will increase your journey to 153 miles and add an extra 45 minutes to your journey time. 

So, set off early to enjoy your fun road trip stops! Return your rental car and stay one last night in Edinburgh. I recommend the Balmoral Hotel. It’s a five-star luxury hotel and a Scottish institution. 

Fun Stops En Route to Edinburgh:

• Glen Coe – Nothing will prepare you for driving through this dramatic, world-famous valley. Stop for photographs whenever you can, especially at the Wee White House.
• Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park – Loch Ness is the biggest by volume, but Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Britain by surface area. This scenic detour will take you down the length of this beautiful Scottish national park. Stop in Balloch and ride the 1953 steamboat called Maid of the Loch if your schedule allows. 
• National Wallace Monument – Take the short walk up a hill to this Victorian stone tower dedicated to 12th-century Scottish Independence hero, William Wallace. The views across the city of Stirling, the winding River Forth, and Stirling Castle are unbeatable. Free (but limited) parking is at the bottom of the trail.
• The Kelpies – Built in 2013, The Kelpies are 100 ft-tall horse heads made of steel. They’re named after a mythical equine spirit and are a fun road trip stop. Parking is plentiful and free. 

Day 10: Explore Edinburgh and Head Home

Spend your last day in Scotland revisiting your favorite Edinburgh spots. Or, check out some new places that most people skip on a first visit to the Scottish capital.

Before you head to the airport, dive into the nearest supermarket for some last-minute treats. Tunnocks Teacakes are a staple mid-afternoon tea break snack in Scotland. Irn bru is an orange-colored soda that is more popular in Scotland than Coca-Cola! This is the big question: what do you think it tastes like?!

Alternative Activities To Do in Edinburgh:

• Royal Yacht Britannia – Queen Elizabeth’s beloved ocean liner is now docked in Edinburgh’s Leith neighborhood. See and learn more about their home on the water for over 40 years.
• Harry Potter Guided Tour – Harry Potter fans cannot miss this tour of locations in Edinburgh that (supposedly) inspired author J.K. Rowling. Your tour guide will be dressed in wizarding robes and it’s fun for kids and adults alike.
• National Portrait Gallery – Edinburgh has lots of free national art galleries. If you love museums, don’t miss the National Portrait Gallery’s eclectic and varied collection
• Dean Village and Circus Lane – You will feel worlds away from the city in Dean Village’s idyllic riverside setting! Circus Lane might be the most charming cobblestone lane you’ve ever seen

Follow This Perfect 10-Day Scotland Itinerary

Many 10-day Scotland itinerary ideas will try to squeeze in too much. This guide doesn’t include Scotland’s largest city of Glasgow, for example. Nor does it spend much time in the country’s two national parks. This itinerary allows you to unpack, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company in some of the country’s biggest show-stopping regions. 

While this Scotland tour guide has many activity suggestions, you don’t have to do them all. Pick and choose the best things to do for your group and ensure everyone has an unforgettable trip. All that’s left to do before you go is to learn ‘cheers’ in Scots which is Slàinte Mhath (Slanj-a-va)!