Edinburgh is a fantastic base for exploring Scotland’s wild and wonderful landscapes. Its compact size and excellent transportation links make it easy to jump into a 2-day tour that takes you beyond the city limits. Whether you’re after a scenic Highlands drive, a Harry Potter-inspired train ride, or a deep dive into Scottish history, Edinburgh offers diverse options. We particularly love tours that combine iconic sights like Loch Ness and Glencoe with engaging guides who share stories that bring the land to life. For example, the small-group tours often provide a more personal experience, like the 2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour, which limits groups to 16 passengers for a friendlier, more flexible adventure.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the 16 best 2-day tours in Edinburgh, ranging from heritage explorations to Harry Potter-themed journeys. Each offers a unique way to see Scotland’s stunning scenery and deep history — perfect for different travel styles and interests.
1. 2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
This tour is a top choice for travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive taste of the Highlands. It includes overnight accommodation at a hotel or B&B, with a small group of no more than 16 people, ensuring personalized attention. Over two days, you’ll enjoy scenic drives through pine forests, dramatic castles, and charming villages, with the option of a boat ride on Loch Ness — a classic Highland experience. The guide’s flexibility is a highlight; travelers often appreciate the stops in Pitlochry and Dunkeld, as well as the chance to explore Inverness’s lively streets. A notable review says, “The days are full and varied with plenty of time to do your own thing.” For the best chance to see Nessie, this tour hits the mark at a reasonable $440.38 per person.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a small-group experience with flexible stops, a cozy overnight, and scenic Highland highlights.
2. 2-Day Jacobite Experience including the Hogwarts Express from Edinburgh
This trip combines history, scenery, and a touch of magic. The highlight is the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express, which takes you from Fort William to Mallaig. Alongside this, you’ll visit historic sites like Dunkeld, Culloden Battlefield, and Loch Ness, with a scenic drive through Cairngorm National Park. Staying overnight in Fort Augustus, this tour offers a balanced mix of activities and storytelling — as one reviewer notes, “Stefan was a fantastic and knowledgeable guide.” Priced at $487.30, it’s a bit pricier but offers the unique steam train experience that Harry Potter fans will love.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a Highland adventure with a Harry Potter twist, combining history, scenery, and the famous train ride.
3. 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
Travel in a very intimate setting on this tour, which limits groups even further for a personal experience. It covers highlights like Glen Coe, Loch Ness, and Culloden Battlefield, with a focus on Scottish culture and landscape. The guide’s detailed commentary and small group size make for an engaging experience. An enthusiastic reviewer shares, “Euen was an amazing guide, personable and knowledgeable.” The tour is priced at $245.70, making it a great value for travelers who want depth without crowds.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prefer a small-group setting, with rich commentary and fewer fellow travelers.
4. From Edinburgh: 2-Day Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express
This tour offers a comprehensive Highland adventure with the famous Jacobite Steam Train, plus visits to Glen Coe and Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers wanting both scenic drives and historic sites, with the added magic of the Hogwarts Express. The itinerary includes standing stones at Clava Cairns and a reflective stop at Culloden, making it rich in history. At $478, it provides good value considering the inclusion of the train ride and multiple key sights.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for Harry Potter fans and history buffs looking for a full Highland experience.
5. Edinburgh: Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan – 2 Day Tour
This tour spreads out the sightseeing, focusing on iconic Eilean Donan Castle, Glenfinnan Viaduct (famous from Harry Potter), and Loch Ness. Staying overnight in Fort William, it balances scenic stops with manageable travel distances. If you love castles and film locations, this tour delivers with visits to Doune Castle and the Commando Monument. For around $154, it offers a budget-friendly option with flexible overnight arrangements.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the top sights and enjoy some Harry Potter magic.
6. From Edinburgh: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour
This tour emphasizes scenic landscapes and historic sites, including Culloden and Glen Coe. It features an overnight in Inverness and includes a Loch Ness cruise where you might catch a glimpse of Nessie. The guide’s storytelling is a highlight, with reviews praising the knowledgeable leader and the beautiful scenery. Priced at $167, it offers a solid balance of value and comfort.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting scenic Highland landscapes combined with historical insights and a Loch Ness cruise.
7. 2-Day Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan 2-Day Tour
This tour emphasizes scenic castle and film location visits like Eilean Donan and Glenfinnan Viaduct. Spending a night in Fort William, it’s perfect for those who love castles and movies. The itinerary’s focus on Harry Potter locations and Glen Coe makes it ideal for fans of both history and film. The price is about $167, making it an affordable option that packs in a lot.
Bottom line: Best for fans of Harry Potter and stunning castle scenery, with a comfortable overnight.
8. From Edinburgh: Outlander Experience 2-Day Tour
For Outlander fans, this tour is a dream. It visits Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, and Falkland Village, all seen in the series. Plus, you’ll explore Clava Cairns and Culloden, tying the fictional and real Scottish landscapes together. The tour’s small-group setting and detailed storytelling make for an immersive experience. Priced at $337, it offers a well-rounded Outlander-themed adventure.
Bottom line: The perfect pick for Outlander fans eager to see series filming locations and historic sites.
9. 2-Day Outlander Experience Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
This tour emphasizes small-group intimacy and behind-the-scenes insights into the Outlander series. You’ll visit Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), Doune Castle, and Glen Coe, with a focus on the series’ filming locations. The inclusion of Loch Ness and Culloden adds depth to the Scottish experience. Reviewers mention the guide’s “excellent knowledge” and the personalized feel. Costing $343.15, it’s worth it for fans wanting a more exclusive experience.
Bottom line: Designed for Outlander enthusiasts who value a personal touch and detailed storytelling.
10. Loch Ness, Inverness, & Highlands 2-Day Tour from Edinburgh
This tour offers scenic highlights with two days to explore Loch Ness, Inverness, and the Highlands. It promises to try to spot Nessie and includes a walk through Caledonian pine forests. The guide’s personable style and scenic stops make it a popular choice. At $394, it provides a good value for travelers wanting to see the most famous loch and surroundings.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and Highland towns.
11. Inverness and The Highlands 2-Day Tour from Edinburgh
This less detailed option focuses on essential sights like Glenfinnan Viaduct, Culloden, and Glen Coe. Its value lies in flexible itineraries and relaxed pacing. It’s perfect for travelers who want a straightforward Highland experience without the extra frills.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a relaxed schedule with reliable Highland sights.
12. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands – 2 Day Tour
This tour emphasizes scenery and easy logistics, with scenic stops at Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. Its relaxed pace and focus on natural beauty make it suitable for travelers wanting a scenic escape without too many stops. The reviews highlight the beautiful landscapes and knowledgeable guides. For just $154, it’s an attractive budget option.
Bottom line: Good for budget travelers wanting scenic Highland highlights with minimal hassle.
13. 2 Days Private Custom Tour of Scotland from Edinburgh
This is the ultimate flexible option. You design your itinerary, choosing destinations from the Highlands to Skye, and your guide personalizes the experience. It’s perfect for travelers with specific interests or those who want a tailored trip. At $2,129.29 per group, it’s an investment but offers a truly exclusive journey.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting total control and a private, customized experience.
14. From Edinburgh: Outlander Experience 2-Day Tour
This tour follows the Outlander series’ filming locations, including Blackness Castle and Doune Castle. It combines Scottish castles and series lore, making it ideal for fans wanting to see the real-life castles and landscapes behind the show. The reviews commend the guide’s storytelling and the well-paced itinerary. Cost is $337, making it a solid choice for dedicated Outlander fans.
Bottom line: Perfect for series fans eager to connect fiction to Scotland’s real castles and scenery.
15. 2 Days on the Loch Ness Canal of Caledonia and the Highlands
This tour offers a unique canal experience alongside classic Highland sights, including Loch Ness, Perthshire, and Glen Coe. It includes full breakfast and accommodation, making it convenient for those wanting an all-in-one package. The itinerary covers geological wonders and film locations like James Bond filming sites.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of scenery, history, and comfort in a more relaxed setting.
16. 2-Day Private Loch Ness Tour in Luxury Mercedes Minivan
This ultra-luxury option offers a private tour in a Mercedes MPV, perfect for those wanting exclusivity. It includes personalized stops at Callander, Glen Ogle, Fort Augustus, and Urquhart Castle. The price of over $1,200 per person reflects its premium service, with the guide sharing stories about myths like the Kelpies and Scottish legends.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, luxury experience with a dedicated guide.
How to Choose the Right 2-Day Scottish Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and preferred pace. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the Hogwarts Express or Glenfinnan Viaduct tours will enchant you. For Outlander lovers, both the series-specific Outlander Experience and Small Group Outlander Tour are excellent options.
Those focused on scenery and landscape, like the 2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour or the 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands, offer a balance of natural beauty and cultural sites. Budget-conscious travelers should consider the Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan or the Scenic Highlands.
If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the 2-Day Private Custom Tour or Luxury Loch Ness provide exclusivity and flexibility. Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.
Edinburgh’s proximity to the Highlands and storied castles makes it an ideal launching point for a memorable 2-day adventure. Whether you’re after the magic of Harry Potter, the intrigue of Outlander, or the rugged beauty of Glen Coe, there’s a tour that fits your style and budget. Explore your options, plan ahead, and get ready to discover Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.