5 (3840)
Edinburgh
Highlands & Glenfinnan Viaduct Day Trip from Edinburgh
720
Overview
Full-Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Highlands from Edinburgh offers a magical journey through the iconic landscapes of Scotland, famed for their appearances in the Harry Potter and James Bond film series. This bus tour caters to movie buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable Scottish adventure.
Travelers can expect a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands, passing landmarks like Linlithgow Palace, the Kelpies, and Stirling Castle. The tour heads north through Glencoe, where the driver/guide will point out filming locations from the James Bond and Harry Potter franchises. A stop in the Fort William area for lunch precedes a short drive to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a highlight made famous by the Hogwarts Express scenes in the Harry Potter movies. There's a short walk to a viewpoint with views over Loch Shiel and the viaduct, in time for the Jacobite Steam train crossing (seasonal: April 7 to October 24, 2025). The return journey includes a relaxing drive through the Highland scenery and a stop in the historic town of Pitlochry, before returning to Edinburgh via the Forth Rail Bridge.
This experience includes a scenic tour through the Highlands with regular stops for photos and rest breaks and viewing the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (seasonal). It excludes food and drink and individual hotel pick-ups and drop-offs. Note that children under 5 are not permitted. Key tour stops include Callander, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Pitlochry. With an English-speaking driver guide and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, this full-day tour promises comfort and convenience. 
Highlights
See the Glenfinnan Viaduct: Watch the Jacobite Steam Train cross the famous bridge (seasonal).
Explore the Scottish Highlands: Enjoy a scenic tour with stops for photos and rest breaks.
Visit Iconic Film Locations: Discover where Harry Potter and James Bond scenes were filmed.
Comfortable Transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Jacobite Steam Train.
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Many enjoyed the scenic views of the Scottish Highlands and Glencoe.
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The tour guides were described as knowledgeable and friendly.
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The bus was comfortable and clean, making the long journey pleasant.
Some customers felt that the time spent at certain stops was too short.
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A few mentioned that the tour can feel rushed due to the distances covered.
The Journey
Callander
Nestled at the foot of the Highlands, Callander is a charming village offering a delightful respite. Stretch your legs and savor local treats while enjoying the scenic beauty of this gateway town. Keep an eye out for the opportunity to encounter the iconic Highland Cows (seasonal), a true symbol of Scotland's rustic charm.
Glencoe
Step into the hauntingly beautiful Glencoe, site of the infamous 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. This dramatic glen, carved by glaciers, is a photographer's paradise. Capture the majestic northern ridges known as the Three Sisters, iconic peaks that stand as silent witnesses to Scotland's turbulent past and breathtaking natural beauty.
Fort William
Discover Fort William, the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK,' nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many traditional pubs, cozy restaurants, or charming cafes lining the cobbled main street. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling Highland town, a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Experience the magic of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by its appearance in the Harry Potter films. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery on the shores of Loch Shiel, this iconic structure offers unforgettable views. From the visitor center, take a short walk to the viewpoint to witness the stunning vista across Loch Shiel, featured in the Harry Potter films. If you're lucky and visiting during the season (April to October), witness the Jacobite Steam Train gracefully traverse the viaduct, a truly enchanting sight (subject to availability).
Pitlochry
Conclude your Highland adventure with a stop in Pitlochry, a charming Victorian resort town. This picturesque destination offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy light refreshments before the final leg of your journey. Explore the town's unique shops and soak in the atmosphere of this quintessential Scottish town before heading home.
Know Before You Go
This full-day trip includes a scenic tour through the Highlands with regular stops for photos, the chance to see the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (seasonal), and an English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned vehicle. It excludes food and drink, individual hotel pick-ups and drop-offs, and boarding the Jacobite Steam Train. Children under the age of 5 are not permitted; bring ID to prove age. Key stops include Callander, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct and Pitlochry.
Hot Tip
Bring snacks and drinks for the journey, as food and drink are not included. Also, wear comfortable shoes for walking to the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint. Check the Jacobite Steam Train schedule in advance to ensure it's running during your visit.
Review Summary
Customers find this tour to be an exceptional Highland experience with highly knowledgeable and engaging driver guides (frequently praised guides include Fisher and Neill) who share fascinating Scottish history and humor throughout the journey. Positive highlights include breathtaking scenery, well-timed stops at iconic locations like Glenfinnan Viaduct and Fort William, opportunities to photograph Highland cows and the Jacobite Steam Train crossing, and comfortable air-conditioned transportation with adequate rest breaks. The main consideration is that this is one of the longest Viator tours due to distance, which means some stops can be relatively brief; however, travelers appreciate the comprehensive coverage of Harry Potter and James Bond filming locations. Most reviewers highly recommend the experience despite the full day of travel, particularly for film fans and Highland enthusiasts seeking a guided, all-inclusive Scottish adventure from Edinburgh.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Edinburgh
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Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh
4.9
(3319 reviews)
Duration: 750
minutes
Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh takes travelers on a bus tour through Scotland's most iconic landscapes. This adventure is perfect for those wanting to see lochs and mountains, explore historical sites, and learn about Scottish culture, all in one day.
The tour visits famous places like Glencoe, where you can take photos of the Three Sisters mountains. The tour stops near Fort William before going into the Great Glen, where you can see Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The tour also visits Fort Augustus, a small village where people can take an optional boat trip on Loch Ness. Travelers will also visit Callander, Loch Tulla & Glen Orchy Viewpoint, Commando Memorial, Spean Bridge and Pitlochry.
This trip includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver. It includes stops at Loch Ness and photo and rest breaks. Food, drinks, admission fees and individual hotel pick-ups are not included. Children under 5 are not allowed and should bring ID to prove their age.
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5.0
(145 reviews)
Duration: 720
minutes
The Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Loch Shiel 1 Day Tour takes travelers on an unforgettable journey through the Scottish Highlands, departing from Edinburgh. This tour shows off the amazing scenery where famous movies like Skyfall, Highlander, and Harry Potter were filmed.
Travelers will explore Glenfinnan and see the stunning views. Take time to get great photos and maybe even watch the Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct (only from April to October). This comfortable mini-coach tour, led by a friendly driver-guide, visits Callander, Glencoe, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Fort William, and Perthshire. Expect a full-day adventure filled with history and natural beauty.
Included in the tour is transportation by mini-coach, air-conditioned vehicle, and the services of your driver-guide. Not included are meals and refreshments, and entry to the Glenfinnan Monument (Adult £5.00, Concession £4.00, Child £4.00).
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4.9
(1717 reviews)
Duration: 570
minutes
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This full-day tour includes travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and the insights of a local English-speaking guide. Please note that food, drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off are not included. Entry fees for Doune, Midhope, and Blackness Castles are also excluded unless specifically selected as part of the option at check-in, but can be purchased upon arrival. Gratuities are not included.
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5.0
(197 reviews)
Duration: 660
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Travelers will visit St Andrews, known for its old university and golf course. They'll also see Dunnottar Castle, a stunning castle on a cliff by the sea. Plus, the tour stops in Falkland, which was used as Inverness in the Outlander TV show. This tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to see Scotland's best sights.
The tour includes small groups, a professional guide who speaks Spanish, and a guaranteed best route. Lunch is not included, so travelers should bring their own. This full-day tour visits the Scottish Highlands, Falkland, St Andrews, Scottish Castles, and Dunnottar Castle.
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4.9
(814 reviews)
Duration: 135
minutes
The Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile Walking Tour offers a captivating journey through Scotland's historic capital. This walking tour explores the famous Royal Mile and includes entry to Edinburgh Castle, offering a deep dive into Scottish history and culture.
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This tour includes a local guide and entrance ticket to Edinburgh Castle for a guided tour, as well as a guided tour of the Old Town and Royal Mile highlights. Gratuities are not included. Key stops include the Royal Mile, Closes and Mercat Cross, St. Giles Cathedral & West Parliament Square, Heart of Midlothian & Makars' Court, Victoria Street, Grassmarket, Castle Esplanade & The Hub, and Edinburgh Castle. With an expert guide, this experience will allow visitors to get the most out of Edinburgh's history.
Edinburgh
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5.0
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