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Scotland's Castles: Windows into History

Exploring Scotland’s castles is the best way to learn about its amazing history. Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, and conquerors. Whether in ruins or restored to their former glory, all are priceless repositories of the past. Here are just a few of our favorites.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland's most famous castles, perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the capital city. The castle has been a royal residence for centuries and has played a pivotal role in Scotland's history. Visitors can explore the castle's grand halls and chambers, including the Great Hall and the Scottish Crown Jewels. See it on nearly all our Scottish tours.

Blair Castle

Blair Castle
Photo by P. Tomkins, Courtesy of Visit Scotland.


Blair Castle is situated in the picturesque Perthshire countryside and has been the seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl for over seven centuries. The castle's grand rooms are filled with treasures, including paintings, tapestries, and antique furniture. Visitors can also explore the castle's extensive gardens and woodland walks. Suggested tour: The Scots Irish Tour

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is a stunning French chateau-style castle situated in the Scottish Highlands. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for over 700 years. Visitors can explore the castle's grand rooms, including the ballroom and library, and enjoy the stunning gardens and falconry displays. Suggested tour: Scottish Isles & Glens

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most iconic castles, situated on a small tidal island at the meeting point of three sea lochs. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can explore the castle's atmospheric chambers and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Suggested tour: Scottish Isles and Glens

Glamis Castle

Glamis Castle


Glamis Castle is a magnificent castle situated in the Angus countryside. The castle has been home to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since the 14th century and is steeped in history and legend. Visitors can explore the castle's grand rooms, including the Great Hall and the Queen Mother's Sitting Room. Suggested tour: Highlights of Britain

Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle is a beautiful castle situated on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll. The castle was built in the 18th century and has been the ancestral home of the Dukes of Argyll since then. Visitors can explore the castle's grand rooms, including the State Dining Room and the Armory Hall, and enjoy the stunning gardens and woodland walks. Suggested tour: Scottish and Irish Gold

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most important castles and has played a significant role in Scottish history. The castle sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city of Stirling and has been the site of many important battles. Visitors can explore the castle's grand halls and chambers, including the Great Hall and the Royal Palace. Suggested tour: Scottish Clans and Castles

Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle is a beautiful castle situated on the banks of Loch Ness. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been the site of many important battles. Visitors can explore the castle's atmospheric ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of Loch Ness. Suggested tour: Scottish Clans and Castleshttps://www.cietours.com/tours/scotland/scottish-clans-castles

Each castle has its own unique story to tell, and visiting them is an experience not to be missed. 

Scotland Tours

Showing 15 of 15 total

Taste of Britain & Ireland

Starting from $4,895

4.3
14 Days

Get a great introduction to two great countries on this lively trip to England, Ireland, and Scotland. Enjoy a generous helping of the essential must-dos, with a hint of the unexpected. 

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Irish & Scottish Sampler

Starting from $2,295

4.6
7 Days

This short-and-sweet combination Ireland and Scotland tour visits all the top highlights, mixing in historic cities with iconic sights.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

4.5
10 or 11 Days

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

The Scots Irish Tour

Starting from $3,595

4.5
11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 Days

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Scottish Clans & Castles

Starting from $3,345

4.4
10 or 11 Days

Revisit the past on this leisurely Scottish tour filled with castle ruins, ancient battlefields, and colorful stories from the country's rich history.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Scottish Dream

Starting from $2,695

4.6
8 or 9 Days

Check the must-sees off of your wish list on this good-value Scotland tour, which is an ideal introduction to the bustling cities and breathtaking landscapes.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Scottish Isles & Glens

Starting from $4,095

4.4
12 or 13 Days

Head a little off the beaten path on this tour of Scotland's rugged Highlands, coastal byways, and the archaeological treasures on Orkney and the Isle of Skye.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Taste of Scotland

Starting from $1,495

4.4
5 or 6 Days

Explore the very best of Scotland's gorgeous scenery and bustling cities on this short-and-sweet introductory tour. 

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

Highlights of Britain

Starting from $4,345

4.2
13 Days

Go off the beaten path as you traverse the whole of Britain to see Devon and Cornwall in England’s Southwest, the medieval heritage of Wales, and Scotland’s delights.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

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