11 Enthralling Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh in 2023
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Wondering what the best Isle of Skye tours from Edinburgh are? You’re in luck because I’ve rounded up the best of the best in this post.
Out of all the places I’ve visited in Scotland, the Isle of Skye is one destination that stands out amongst the rest. From the rugged coastlines with bright blue waters to the quaint fishing villages, the Isle of Skye should absolutely be on your Scotland bucket list.
Keep reading to learn all about the best trips to Skye from Edinburgh.
Editor’s Pick: Best Edinburgh Isle of Skye Tour
Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh
3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (546 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 3 days | ✅ Includes: Transportation, experienced guide, 3-day tour | 🏴 Book now
Enjoy the beauty of the highlands and the Isle of Skye on this 3-day tour! This is the perfect option for those who don’t want to rent a car on their trip to Scotland, because it includes transportation in a coach with AC plus a professional guide.
Along the tour, enjoy views of Scotland out your window as you hear some interesting stories. Stop at famous places like The Kelpies, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Portree Harbour, Quiraing, and the Clava Cairns along the way.
In addition to stopping at many locations, you’ll also pass by many other great locations like Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument.
“The most amazing natural landmarks you will ever see! The drive to and from were filled with gorgeous stops and fun activities.Very full days but completely worth the exhaustion! Thanks Marty for an amazing trip- for being so informative, entertaining, helpful and for taking care of everyone.”
Julie M (see more reviews)
Because this is a 3-day tour, keep in mind that you will have to book your own accommodation each night and pay for your own meals, which is why the price of this tour is massively lower than other similar ones. As far as value for money goes, this is truly our favorite Isle of Skye tour from Edinburgh.
Isle of Skye, The Highlands and Loch Ness- 3 Day Group Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (322 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 3 days | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, transportation, 2 night’s accommodation | 🏴 Book now
Another one of the great Isle of Skye tours from Edinburgh is this 3-day group tour. On this multi-day tour, guests will be brought to all of the best highlights of the Isle of Skye, and other great spots too. Enjoy the beauty of Kilt Rock, Eilean Donan Castle, Lealt Falls, and more.
The tour itself includes 2 nights accommodation (not if no accommodation option is chosen), a driver with transportation, professional guide, and fun commentary during the transportation parts of the trip.
“Tour was excellent!!! It was a great balance between stopping at all of the sites and spending adequate time at those sites. Kenny, our leader, was entertaining, educational and caring for everyone.”
Michael M (see more reviews)
The first day of the tour starts in Edinburgh, and the drive to Portree includes stops at Luss Pier and Old Fort of Fort William, plus a stop at Ben Nevis. Day two is fully spent in Skye, and day three is the drive back to Edinburgh.
You can’t go wrong with this tour of the Isle of Skye!
3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (491 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 3 days | ✅ Includes: 2 nights accommodation, breakfast, professional guide, transportation | 🏴 Book now
From Edinburgh, this is one of the best tours that you can take to the Isle of Skye! It’s a 3-day tour that includes the beauty of both the Isle of Skye and the Highlands. Stops along the way are made at Kilt Rock, Portree Harbour, and Eilean Donan Castle, among others.
Similar to other 3-day tours, this one spends the first day driving from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye. However, on the first day, you also have an optional cruise on Loch Ness! Day two is spent exploring Skye, and on day three, stop at Culloden Battlefield.
“Pure magic! The trip was wonderful from start to finish. Alex was a great guide, he really kept it fun. He was also a great, safe driver on the twisty roads. My B&B in Inverness was amazing. Skye was even more beautiful than I’d imagined. Thanks for a wonderful tour.”
Christen S (see more reviews)
Two nights of accommodation are included in Inverness, which is used as a home base for the tour. Breakfast is also included, though meals throughout the day are up to the guest.
For visitors wanting to see the highlights of Skye and northern Scotland, this is an amazing tour to book.
5-Day Best of Scotland Experience from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (177 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 5 days | ✅ Includes: 4 nights accommodation, professional guide, transportation | 🏴 Book now
For a longer tour up to the Isle of Skye, this 5-day tour is a great option. Go through places like the Lowlands, the Highlands, all the way up to the Isle of Skye. Plus, see natural rugged landscapes like Trossachs National Park!
In addition to its longer length, this tour has great inclusions like 4 nights of accommodation (with breakfast in the Isle of Skye), a professional guide, and transportation with air conditioning.
“We had a wonderful time. Our guide, Andrew, was a great storyteller and a wealth of information. The places, views, and experiences along the way may slightly vary depending on guide, time of year, and weather. I am 100% pleased with everything. Would use this company (Highland Experiences is who we ultimately were on tour with) again! If you’re on the fence about spending the time and money – it is a great deal and worth every penny.”
Erin M (see more reviews)
The first day is from Edinburgh to Oban, with stops at beautiful places like Loch Lomond and Inveraray Castle. Day two, spend the night in Skye, and even stop at Ben Nevis along the way.
Day three is spent seeing some of the top spots in Skye, like The Old Man of Storr and Portree Harbour. Day four, spend the night in Loch Ness and check out Urquhart Castle. On the last day, make your way back to Edinburgh, stopping at a distillery and some historic spots like Culloden Battlefield.
For guests wanting to explore more of Scotland than just Skye, this is the perfect option.
3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (159 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 3 days | ✅ Includes: 2 nights of accommodation and breakfast, professional guide, transportation | 🏴 Book now
This 3-day tour is the perfect way to get up to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh, and it allows you to stop at other Scottish landmarks along the way. Some landmarks you’ll see include Ben Nevis, Eilean Donan Castle, and you’ll even drive through Great Glen Way.
There are awesome inclusions in this tour, including two nights of accommodation with breakfast, a professional guide, and transportation. The guides with this tour are great, sharing tons of fun information about what you’re seeing along the way.
“Fantastic 3 days. Great way to explore the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Our tour guide Steve was awesome – very knowledgeable and entertaining. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to explore Scotland.”
mdavison75 (see more reviews)
This tour starts at Highland Explorer Tours in Edinburgh. On Day one, travel from Edinburgh to Portree. Day two is spent exploring the Isle of Skye, visiting iconic landmarks like Lealt Falls, The Old Man of Storr, and Kilt Rock. On day three, drive back from Portree to Edinburgh, passing landmarks like Commando Monument and Glencoe.
3-Day Budget Backpacker Isle of Skye and the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (239 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 3 days | ✅ Includes: 2 night accommodation in a dorm, professional guide, live commentary | 🏴 Book now
Another great tour from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye is this 3-day tour, perfect for those looking for more of a backpacking experience on a budget. The main difference between this tour and the others is that you will spend the night in shared accommodation, so you can have a much more group feeling.
On this tour, you’ll be able to visit Loch Ness, explore the Scottish Highlands, and see the beauty of the Isle of Skye, including must-visit spots like The Old Man of Storr and lovely Portree Harbour. Note that meals are not included.
“Would recommend! I only had a short time to see Skye and was nervous about driving on Scottish roads so this was an ideal way for me to see the bits I wanted! (and bits I wouldn’t have ever known about!) It ended up being so much more fun and energetic than anticipated as our friendly guide Michael got us all ready to converse, igniting new discussions and friendships between mostly solo travellers (of a relatable young age group) and getting the party started! (with an impressive volume of historic tales)”
Jasmine C (see more reviews)
Similar to other tours, the first day is spent traveling from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, which stops at places like Dunkeld (a beautiful cathedral town) and Eilean Donan Castle. Day two is spent in Isle of Skye after an overnight in Portree, with visits to Dunvegan Castle, Kilt Rock, and more. On the final day, drive back to Edinburgh and stop at places like Glenfinnan Viaduct and National Wallace Monument.
For budget or younger travelers, this is the perfect tour to book!
5-Day Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (143 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 5 days | ✅ Includes: 4 nights accommodation with breakfast, small group size (16 or under), transportation | 🏴 Book now
For a longer tour than 3 days, this 5-day tour is an incredible option. You’ll travel around in a luxury minivan seeing the beauties of Scotland, from Loch Ness to the Isle of Skye.
Inclusions on this tour in particular include two nights accommodation in Ullapool, two nights accommodation in Portree, daily breakfast, a professional guide, and a small group feel. The maximum number of people per tour is just 16!
“This was one of the best tours we have ever been on. We had an absolutely wonderful experience! Scotland is breathtakingly beautiful! James, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable and had a great personality. We thoroughly enjoyed every day of our tour.”
Missy621 (see more reviews)
Here’s a brief breakdown of the itinerary for this tour:
- Day 1: Begin in Edinburgh and make your way to Ullapool, with a stop in Dunkeld
- Day 2: Go from Ullapool to Lochinver, with stops at Ardveck Castle and Achmelvich Bay
- Day 3: Travel from Ullapool to Portree with a stop in Applecross for lunch
- Day 4: A flexible day on the Isle of Skye with stops at The Old Man of Storr, Neist Point, and Kilt Rock
- Day 5: Head back to Edinburgh from Portree, with stops at Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe
4-Day Isle of Skye & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (127 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 4 days | ✅ Includes: Transportation, professional guide, 3 nights accommodation with breakfast | 🏴 Book now
Another small group tour with a maximum size of 16 is this 4-day tour! Head to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh and see iconic Scottish attractions like Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe.
This tour includes three nights in accommodation (that’s 3 stars) with breakfast. There’s also a luxury travel coach and professional guide who will explain things to you along the way.
“Beautiful landscape, great tour guide who was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and nice slow pace. We saw a lot and kept moving, but never felt rushed. Loved the small group size too.”
Jeffrey L (see more reviews)
The tour starts in Edinburgh, with stops at Glencoe and the Kelpies, as the first night is spent in Fort William. On the second day, finally travel up to Skye, with visits to Glenfinnal Viaduct, Morar Beach, and the Mallaig Heritage Centre. The night is spent in either Kyle of Lochalsh or Portree.
Day three, tour around the Isle of Skye! What’s unique about this tour in particular is that spots can change depending on the group’s interests and the weather in Scotland for the day.
On the very last day, head back to Edinburgh from the Isle of Skye. Stop at places like Eilean Donan Castle, and later, Fort Augustus Abbey for lunch.
5-Day Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the Jacobite Steam Train from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (213 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 5 days | ✅ Includes: Transportation, local guide, 4 nights accommodation with breakfast | 🏴 Book now
For Harry Potter fans who want to experience the beauty of the Isle of Skye, this is the tour to book! It’s a bit more on the pricier side, but it’s well worth it. This 5-day tour from Edinburgh includes stops at iconic spots along the way.
Spend the first day driving to Oban from Edinburgh, with visits to The Kelpies, Callander, and more. Make your way up to the Isle of Skye on day two, stopping at places like Fort William (see Glenfinnan Viaduct from the Harry Potter films!) and the Quiraing.
On day three, head from the Isle of Skye to Inverness, and see more Skye landmarks like The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. On day four, you’ll explore the highlands seeing Loch Ness, Clava Cairns (perfect for fans of Outlander), and more. Finally, make your way back to Edinburgh on day five, and stop at a museum and distillery, plus a cathedral town!
“This was a fantastic tour! First tour for my wife and I, we chose this tour for its value and overall itinerary. My wife has Scottish DNA, so she especially was excited about this tour. We would do this tour again in a heartbeat!”
RalphieBoy (see more reviews)
The tour includes 4 nights of accommodation (in Oban, Portree, and Inverness) plus breakfast. Other meals are on each person to purchase, but stops are made so you can enjoy food.
8-Day Orkney, Hebrides and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars (18 reviews) | ⏳ Tour length: 8 days | ✅ Includes: Air conditioned transportation, dinner, local guide, Viking beach feast, Jacobite Steam Train ticket, 7 nights hostel accommodation | 🏴 Book now
Last but certainly not least is this 8-day tour for those wanting to spend a lot of time exploring the beauty of Scotland without a car! On this tour, you’ll be able to visit more than just the top tourist attractions.
The tour includes a Viking beach feast, a ticket to the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, a local guide, air-conditioned transportation, and 7 nights of accommodation in hostels (in Loch Ness, Kirkwall, Ullapool, Stornaway, and Portree). Dinner is also included.
Please note that this tour is only for those aged 18 to 35.
“Amazing trip full of beautiful scenery, fun activities, great people and a great tour guide Rich! Lots of driving with lots of incredible stops and breaks along the way.”
Reviewer (see more reviews)
As mentioned earlier, this tour includes stops at so many unique places throughout Scotland. Here’s a brief look at the day-to-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Travel from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, with stops at places like Blair Athol Distillery and Killiecrankie
- Day 2: Go from Loch Ness to Kirkwall, with beautiful landmark stops at places like Dunrobin Castle and Gardens and St. Margaret’s Hope where you’ll hop on a ferry
- Day 3: Spend the day in Kirkwall, seeing locations like the Orkney Islands (a must-see) and the Ring of Brodgar
- Day 4: Head up to Ullapool from Kirkwall, seeing some of the North Coast 500 and zipline in Durness if you’re up for the adventure
- Day 5: Go from Ullapool to Stornaway, visiting places like Gearannan Blackhouse Village and Carloway Beach
- Day 6: Finally go up to the Isle of Skye, and make stops at places like Isle of Harris, Lealt Falls, and The Old Man of Storr
- Day 7: Have a free day in Portree and have an optional trip to the Fairy Pools (this is a must-see; it’s our favorite place in Skye!)
- Day 8: Travel back to Edinburgh, and ride the Jacobite Steam Train during the day! Plus, see The Kelpies, Glencoe, and Armadale Castle
If you’re a younger traveler looking to see the best of Scotland over more than a few days, this is the tour for you.
Well, there yo have it! These are all of the best Isle of Skye tours from Edinburgh. No matter which one you book, we hope you have the best tour!
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