Things to do in Pitlochry, Scotland: The Best Cultural Tours

March 2, 2022 Joeann Galban

Highland Perthshire places some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery within easy reach of both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and Pitlochry is the most geared-up base from which to enjoy it. It’s been a bustling mountain resort since the railways arrived in 1863, and these days manages to be both a cozy favorite for tourists who enjoy browsing in its woolen mills and taking in the repertory of plays at its famous Festival Theatre, and a magnet for adrenalin junkies in search of bungee jumping, canyoning, tubing and white water rafting adventures. Visitors of any age will be intrigued by the Pictish carvings on the huge Dunfallandy stone at nearby Ballinluig and, after a bracing mountain walk or visit to the famous salmon ladder, adults can enjoy a warming dram of malt whiskey after a tour at one of the two local distilleries, Edradour and Blair Athol.
Restaurants in Pitlochry

1. Loch Ness & The Highlands Day Tour

MTB Private Hire
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

On this tour it will be only your small group of up to 8 people and your driver guide. Your driver guide will help you to understand the culture, history and general way of life that we live here in Scotland. As this is a private tour you can spend as much or as little time at the listed attractions as you wish giving you complete control of your trip.

Inclusions: Private transportation

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2. Whisky and the Highlands

King Tours Scotland - Private Day Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

We move at the guests pace so they can enjoy their time in the Perthshire Highlands. At Blair Castle and Edradour Distillery you will tour with their in house guides. When with King Tours we will tell you all about Scotland's rich history to give you a full flavour of this magical country.

Inclusions: We will stop for lunch in Pitlochry on the day tour. Guests will pay for their own lunch.

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Reviewed By ApurvaG60

I was not quite sure what to expect when I planned this tour with Paul only because the number of daylight hours in Scotland in mid-December is quite limited (this tour had to be managed in 6 hours) and also one was not sure of the vagaries of the weather, looking at the forecast. However, it turned out to be a brilliant and fun day. Paul’s pacing is always perfect. Tours with him are not overwhelming in which the days might be packed too tight and where one might get the feeling always of being rushed. No. Not so with Paul. His planning and sense of time is excellent. He selects the sights and the tours with care and customises them exactly per his customers’ requirements. In the end one gets the feeling of having been somewhere meaningful, and of having one’s senses enriched. It’s just right and it’s brilliant. Those memories stay with one for a long long time. I’m not going into the details of each place visited, nor am I going to wax lyrical about Paul’s sense of humour, his knowledge of Scottish history, current politics, the golf conversations, and the wonderful insights that he shares about each place visited: these things are all true, of course, and he is a truly excellent guide and friend. Very briefly, one saw the ruins of the Roslin Castle, the exquisite Rosslyn Chapel, the magnificent Scott’s View, and the enchanting and atmospheric Dryburgh and Melrose Abbeys. Lunch was at the classy Townhouse (Paul’s picks are perfect). I strongly recommend giving Paul and his partner Kelly a shout if you wish to discover Scotland. You will not be disappointed. Five stars, and that’s being stingy.

3. 6-Day Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh EH1 3DQ, UK Rabbie's
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5.0 based on 38 reviews

Explore Scotland’s Outer Hebrides and the Isle of Skye on a 6-day tour from Edinburgh and discover the islands’ enchanting scenery, history and people! Windswept and rugged, the region comprises a string of beautiful islands, the largest being the isles of Lewis and Harris, both of which are visited on the tour. See historical sites including the Callanish Stones and Dun Carloway Broch; incredible scenery at the Butt of Lewis and Bhaltos; and sites such as Dunvegan Castle and Glendale Castle on the Isle of Skye. The experience includes your choice of guesthouse or hotel accommodation in Ullapool, Stornaway in the Outer Hebrides and Portree on the Isle of Skye. Discover Scotland's most beautiful landscapes on this tour to the Outer Hebrides and Skye.

Inclusions: Transport by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes minicoach, Driver/guide, Round-trip ferry transport to the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye, 5 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast

Exclusions: Meals and refreshments, Admission fees, Gratuities

Reviewed By 464kathyi

Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????

4. 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

Waterloo Place, Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh, UK Heart of Scotland Tours
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4.9 based on 145 reviews

Join this small group tour for a magical two day escape to the Highlands. Traveling through spectacular scenery, this tour is the perfect way to see Scotland and many of her highlights. These include stops at Doune Castle, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan Viaduct (April - October only) and Loch Ness. Overnight is in the bustling Highland capital of Inverness followed by visits to Culloden Battlefield, prehistoric standing stones, Pitlochry (optional whisky distillery tour) and a riverside walk at Dunkeld.

Inclusions: Small-group tour - 13 passengers or less, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini coach

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Attraction Entrance Fees, Accommodation: See the Additional Info section below to select your preferred accommodation choice

Reviewed By EmJo

23 October 2020. Almost everything is so good, but Glencoe stood out due to its natural beauty. We were on the foot of the mountains. I highly recommend this tour to everyone!! Keith was our tourguide and driver. Very professional. :)

5. 2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Rabbie's Cafe Bar, 6 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3EG, UK Rabbie's
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4.8 based on 386 reviews

Spend two days exploring Loch Ness and Inverness, past and present, on a small-group trip to the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh. As you enjoy scenic drives and historic landmarks, your eyes will pop at the dramatically beautiful landscape. With a maximum group size of 16 passengers, this leisurely two-day excursion allows you to have a memorable and personal experience in two of Scotland’s favorite locations.

Inclusions: Overnight en-suite accommodation with breakfast, Small-group tour (maximum 16 passengers), Transportation by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, Driver/guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Food and drinks, unless specified, Admission fees

Reviewed By 464kathyi

Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????

6. 5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands Tour

Deacon's House Cafe, 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
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4.8 based on 31 reviews

Breathtaking scenery, beautiful Highland lochs, mountains and glens, ancient castles and historical sites, large vibrant cities and stunning locations. In 5 days we’ll show you all of these plus more of this wee country than any other tour of its length. All lead by your Ness Bus/Hairy Coo Guide. Be amazed by the landscapes on this tour. From the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and ancient standing stones of Kilmartin to Oban. We will take you to beautiful Glencoe, Glenfinnan and the Great Glen. Tour a Scotch whisky distillery, ancient castles, Loch Ness and spend a night on the Isle of Skye. Take a seal spotting cruise on Loch Carron, and step back millions of years among the geological wonders of Scotland’s far North West Highlands. Delve into the Jacobite Rebellions at Culloden Battlefield and locations from Outlander, Harry Potter and James Bond. Stroll across the world famous links of St Andrews Old Course and wander among the buildings of Scotland’s oldest University.

Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, YOU CAN BOOK YOUR OWN ACCOMMODATION - Night 1 OBAN - Night 2 PORTREE - Night 3 + 4 INVERNESS , WE CAN BOOK ACCOMMODATION ON YOUR BEHALF - a reservation member will be in with options and prices

Reviewed By escr2020

Definitely had an excellent time on this tour and with our guide, Ryan. He was very knowledgable about Scottish history relating to the places we went to and passed through. In these strange times and amidst several restrictions, we still feel like we were able to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands during this three day trip. A must-do if you're visiting Scotland and want to get as much as you can from your time.

7. Highland Lochs, Glens and Whisky Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Rabbie's Cafe Bar, 6 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3EG, UK Rabbie's
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4.8 based on 339 reviews

Fancy sampling a wee dram o' whisky and exploring the rugged landscape of the Scottish Highlands? Combine the two on a small-group day trip from Edinburgh, and discover the real taste of Scotland! You’ll see the area’s beautiful scenery, full of lochs and glens, and sample Scotland’s favorite beverage. With a maximum group size of 16 passengers, this special full-day tour allows you to have a memorable and personal experience.

Inclusions: Professional driver/guide, Top of the range Mercedes mini-coach, Small Group Tour (16 people max)

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Food and drinks, unless specified, Entrance fees (Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery)

Reviewed By 464kathyi

Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????

8. Glencoe, Ben Nevis and Loch Ness Day Tour from Edinburgh

Haggis Adventures, 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, UK Haggis Adventures
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4.7 based on 131 reviews

Explore some of Scotland's most iconic sites and stunning scenery with this unique guided day tour from Edinburgh and witness the unique site of Glencoe, the beauty of Ben Nevis and the Loch Ness, where you might even be able to spot the famous monster that is said to inhabit it's waters.

Inclusions: Lunch, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Entry fees - Loch Ness Cruise approximately £15 (must be booked at check-in to avoid disappointment)

Reviewed By sillyboy43

This was a lovely tour got to see so much of Scotland. Everyone friendly. I think I had too much whiskey. Love Scotland so much to see. The tour guide was good and wanted everyone to enjoy themselves.

9. Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

521-523 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PE, UK Timberbush Tours Edinburgh - Day Tours
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4.5 based on 726 reviews

This 12 hour tour will fit in as much of Scotland as can possibly done in one day! You will witness the stunning scenery of Glencoe and Ben Nevis before you make your way to Loch Ness for a Jacobite cruise across its deep waters looking for evidence of its renowned resident, Nessie. Enjoy traveling in comfort on one of our luxury, modern, air-conditioned coaches as you witness the stunning sights that Scotland has to offer.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By 167mahmoudm

A fantastic day with Neil our tour guide. A PLENTY of information in attractive way. Ask to go the trip with him. You deserve a trip like this with a fantastic tour guide like Neil. We saw 7 lochs, 4 castles, and two villages. Thank you Neil

10. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Glasgow

266 George St, Glasgow G1 1QX, UK Highland Experience Tours
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4.5 based on 39 reviews

Discover the best of the Highlands and the Isle of Skye on this 3 day tour from Glasgow. Visit Eilean Donan Castle, explore the Highlands and Culloden Battlefield, take a Loch Ness cruise, tour Urquhart Castle and enjoy a whisky tasting on the beautiful Isle of Skye.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, 2 nights accommodation, Driver/guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By C1893GXsallyj

Amazing day tour to Loch Ness with Michael - he looked after us all well and told great stories & took us to stunning view points! I loved it and am keen to book another tour soon.

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