Edinburgh may be Scotland’s capital, but the city’s charm doesn’t end at its historic Old Town and imposing castle. For travelers looking to explore beyond the city, 2-day tours offer a fantastic way to see the Highlands, visit iconic film locations, and learn about Scottish culture. We especially love tours that skip the hassle of self-driving, giving you expert guides and comfortable transportation. For example, the 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh delivers a personalized experience through Glen Coe, Loch Ness, and the Culloden Battlefield, with glowing reviews and a manageable small-group format.
Whatever your interests—history, scenery, or film locations—Edinburgh provides a perfect starting point for 2-day trips. This list highlights some of the best options, from scenic Highland journeys to themed Outlander experiences, helping you choose the right adventure for your Scottish holiday.
1. 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
At number 1, this tour combines the best of the Scottish Highlands with a small-group approach that ensures a more intimate experience. For around $246, you’ll be whisked through iconic locations like Loch Ness, where you can try to spot Nessie, and Glen Coe, a dramatic valley known for its natural beauty and dark past (the 1692 massacre here is a sobering reminder). The tour also visits Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument, perfect for history buffs.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on personalized storytelling from guides who are well-versed in Scottish history and culture. Highlights include a photo stop at Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and a visit to Fort Augustus for souvenirs and photos. The tour runs about two days, with enough time for lunch and photo breaks. Reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, noting that the tour “made sure we saw the best of the Highlands” and that the accommodation in Inverness was a “real treat.”
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, small-group Highland experience with expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of memorable moments.
2. 2-Day Outlander Experience Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
For fans of the Outlander series, this tour is an ideal way to see Scotland’s filming locations with a guide who can share behind-the-scenes insights. Priced at about $343, it features visits to Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), and Blackness Castle, all used in the series. The tour also stops at Glencoe, instantly recognizable from the opening credits, and the Loch Ness region, where you can try spotting the legendary monster.
This tour’s small-group format (56 reviews, all rated 5 stars) makes for a cozy, personalized experience. Guides like John and Graham are praised for their engaging storytelling and knowledge about each filming location and its historical background. The itinerary includes enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Guests often mention how this tour “made the series come to life” and appreciate the included overnight stay in Inverness, which adds a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for Outlander fans seeking a dedicated, immersive experience with a friendly, engaging guide. It’s a bit pricier but well worth it for the dedicated fan or anyone curious about the series’ real-world locations.
3. Inverness and The Highlands 2-Day Tour from Edinburgh
This tour ranks high for its balanced itinerary and positive reviews (4.8/5). The focus is on Glenfinnan viaduct, Loch Shiel, and Culloden Moor, along with a visit to Pitlochry, a lively Highland town. The tour emphasizes natural scenery and historical sites, making it ideal for travelers wanting a broad Highland experience without the intense focus on film or specific themes.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to explore Glen Coe and learn about its infamous history, coupled with time in Inverness to enjoy local cafes and pubs. Reviewers mention the trip’s well-paced schedule and the knowledgeable guides. The tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive Highland experience with enough time to explore towns and enjoy Scottish scenery.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers interested in natural beauty and classic Highland sites with a touch of local culture, especially if you prefer a more general overview rather than a themed trip.
4. From Edinburgh: 2-Day Oban, Glenfinnan, Glencoe & Highlands
For around $195, this tour takes you through the scenic west of Scotland, with stops at Loch Lomond, Glenfinnan, and Oban. It combines scenic landscapes, historic castles, and film locations used in James Bond and Harry Potter movies. The overnight stay in Oban offers a taste of seaside Highland life, and the whisky distillery visit adds a local flavor.
Guests praise the tour for its well-rounded itinerary and the opportunity to see multiple film locations in just two days. The tour’s value shines because it includes visits to Loch Lomond, the Harry Potter bridge (Glenfinnan), and Glen Coe. The itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate different interests, from history to film magic.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a compact, scenic route with a mixture of film history, castles, and rugged Highland landscapes, all at an affordable price.
5. From Edinburgh: 2-Day Ultimate Highland Tour with Hotel
This 2-day tour offers a more luxurious experience, with hotel accommodations included. It covers highlights like Glencoe, the Harry Potter bridge, Loch Ness, and Urquhart Castle. The tour promises flexibility, allowing you to customize stop durations and points of interest, which appeals to travelers wanting a personalized touch.
Guests appreciate the comfortable Mercedes V Class and the opportunity to escape large tour buses. The guide’s commentary keeps the trip engaging, and the focus on iconic landmarks makes it a great option for those who want the classic Highland experience with added comfort. The reviews highlight the flexibility and personalized service.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a premium, customizable tour with hotel stay options, perfect for those who want a seamless, comfortable journey.
6. Edinburgh: 2-Day Highlands, Jacobite Train & Loch Ness Tour
This tour combines the iconic Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, with a Loch Ness cruise and visits to Glencoe and Pitlochry. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of scenery, train nostalgia, and monster-hunting. The tour consistently earns 4.9/5, with reviews praising the train ride and the scenic stops.
The Jacobite Train is a highlight, especially for fans of Harry Potter, as it’s the “Hogwarts Express” in the movies. The tour also includes a walk at Doune Castle, another filming location. The combination of train, cruise, and highland vistas makes it a well-rounded adventure.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic train rides and want a lively, active two days exploring the mountains and lochs.
7. Edinburgh: 2-Day Mary, Queen of Scots Tour with Driver/Guide
For history enthusiasts, this shorter, 7-hour tour focuses on Mary, Queen of Scots and her connections to Stirling Castle and Linlithgow Palace. The tour includes guided visits to Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle, both steeped in Scottish royal history. It also offers free time in Falkland, a charming village.
Guests love the guide’s storytelling about Mary’s life and enjoy visiting important sites associated with her story. The tour’s shorter length makes it perfect for a half-day exploration, especially if you want to combine it with other Edinburgh sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best for history lovers who want a focused, informative experience without leaving the Edinburgh area.
How to Choose Your Perfect 2-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For example, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, the Outlander Experience or the Highland & Harry Potter tour might appeal most. For those wanting scenic landscapes and history, the Inverness Highlands tour and Ultimate Highland tour are excellent options.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours during peak season. Think about whether you prefer a small-group experience or are comfortable with larger coach tours. Also, check if you want extra touches like hotel accommodations or focus on film sites.
Final Thoughts
From scenic Highland drives to film location adventures and royal history, Edinburgh’s 2-day tours offer something for every traveler. If you want an intimate, personalized experience, the Very Small Group Highland Tour is a standout. For Outlander fans, the themed Small Group Experience makes the series come alive. Conversely, those seeking a more luxurious and customizable journey should consider the Ultimate Highland Tour.
Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you secure a spot on these popular trips. With so many options, your Scottish adventure outside Edinburgh promises memorable sights and stories—so pack your camera and get ready for two unforgettable days.