8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh

Outty Ranking 78 4.9 · 131 traveler reviews192 hoursFrom $2,533
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Outty Ranking

78/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 131 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh worth booking?

8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh is a 192-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $2,533 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 131 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
78 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (131)
Duration
192 hours
From
$2,533 per person

Spend an unforgettable 8 days with us as we explore Scotland's North Coast 500, Isle of Skye and Orkney Isles. Discover Scotland's most beautiful sites from Dunrobin Castle to Skara Brae, the Isle of Skye and the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train. Immerse yourself in Scotland's rich history with one of our fantastic guides, and make lifelong memories along the way.

What you get

    About this experience

    Spend an unforgettable 8 days with us as we explore Scotland's North Coast 500, Isle of Skye and Orkney Isles. Discover Scotland's most beautiful sites from Dunrobin Castle to Skara Brae, the Isle of Skye and the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train. Immerse yourself in Scotland's rich history with one of our fantastic guides, and make lifelong memories along the way.

    What's included

    Included

    • 3* B&B accommodation - 7 nights
    • Jacobite Steam Train
    • Breakfast

    Not included

    • Lunch/dinner
    • Tips

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Edinburgh

    This tour will depart at 8:30 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    This tour will depart at 8:30 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Double with Train

      Train

    • Twin with Train

      Train

    • Guesthouse Twin

      8-day Scottish Tour including 7 nights in 3-star twin guesthouse accommodation - 1 room with 2 twin beds; suitable for 2

    • Guesthouse Double

      8-day Scottish Tour including 7 nights in 3-star double guesthouse accommodation - 1 room with 1 double bed; suitable for 2

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Sun
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Highland Explorer Tours Ltd

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • The minimum age to travel is 5 years old
    • Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase weighing no more than 33lbs (15kg) and 1 carry-on bag
    • Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them to board and disembark
    • It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
    • Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice, outwith our control
    • Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
    • Travel insurance is recommended.
    • Please note that itinerary order may change.
    • The tour may operate with our sister company, Highland Explorer Tours.

    Photos

    8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 28 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 38 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 48 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 58 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 68 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 131 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    9 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    4 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    131 verified traveler reviews for 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    124
    4 star
    4
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    HeatherS773 · September 2026

    Great tour of the Highlands

    We saw so much of Scotland! Connor worked hard to make sure everything went smoothly and regaled us with Scottish history and tales. Plenty of stops to visit a variety of sights and Connor's experience showed in allocating just the right amount of time at each one whilst keeping up the pace on the tour. Scottish folk songs along the way with a bit of AC/DC thrown in 😂

    Response from the operator: Hi Heather, Thank you for taking time to provide us with a review of your recent trip to the North Coast of Scotland! We are delighted that you enjoyed the beautiful sights, the itinerary of the trip and beautiful sights along the way. We sincerely hope to welcome you on tour with us again in the near future! Kind regards, Highland Explorer Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    N7005IYshellyb · September 2026

    Great wat to see Scotland

    Conor is an amazing story teller! He was a great driver. Saw many amazing sights. Only negative was rain.

    Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you for taking the time to provide us with a review of your recent trip to the Scottish Highlands. We are delighted that you were able to enjoy the beautiful sights, the amazing storytelling and the unforgettable views. We hope you will consider us again for any trips to Scotland you might have in the future! Kind regards, Highland Explorer Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    Trek63818057012 · September 2026

    Saw a lot in just a week

    Connor really knows his history, and he can really tell an entertaining story. Everything was well-organized and met or exceeded expectations

    Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback from your recent trip to the Isle of Skye, Orkney & The North Coast. We are delighted that you were able to enjoy the sights and learn all about Scottish History along the way. We really hope you will consider our tours again in the future! Kind regards, Highland Explorer Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    S9873RUjaneg · September 2026

    Beautiful highlands and isles.

    Connor was a fabulous story teller. Knowledgeable and entertaining. Great music playlist.

    Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you for taking time to provide us with a review of your recent tour with us. We are delighted that you enjoyed Connor's storytelling, his atmospheric music and the beautiful sights of the North of Scotland! We are very grateful for your kind words and sincerely hope to welcome you back on tour with us again in the future. Kind regards, Highland Explorer Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    eldonh394 · September 2026

    Exploring Scotland

    Booking a tour with strangers is a bit daunting, however, our guide Steve made it very easy. Steve was so easy going he put everyone at ease. We covered an enormous amount of ground but it was amazing. Steve was so knowledgeable, teaching us as we went, explaining what we were to see. There were adequate stops. Steve went the extra mile by teaching us Gallic, providing local treats and putting together playlists for the drive. We loved seeing the country and learning the history. Thoroughly enjoyable in spite of the weather. The highlight was the Orkney Islands and Oban. The accommodations we're great.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    192 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Sun
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    46
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd, who run 24 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 81.9 and 6 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Highland Explorer Tours Ltd runs

    Why this scores 78

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)61
    Booking momentum (14% weight)55
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)59
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.

    How much does 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh cost?

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    Prices start at $2,533 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh take?

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    Plan for about 192 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.

    Is 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 131 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 192-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    Around 46 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 192-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?

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    On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    Included: 3* B&B accommodation - 7 nights; Jacobite Steam Train; and Breakfast. Not included: Lunch/dinner; and Tips. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    This tour will depart at 8:30 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    Across 131 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, organization. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    What booking options are available for 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh?

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    There are 4 options to choose from, including Double with Train, Twin with Train, Guesthouse Twin, Guesthouse Double. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

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