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

July 17, 2021 Emerita Lamoureux

Enjoy a compelling glimpse into the epic history of Stirling and its surrounding area by going back in time at Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. Then explore other family-friendly attractions and the vibrant, independent boutiques around the Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade. And be sure to budget time to visit majestic Loch Lomond – Britain’s largest body of water – and the Trossachs National Park, just a short ride away.
Restaurants in Stirling

1. Central Scotland Driving Tour - Stirlingshire (Private)

Monarch Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Discover whats beyond the city walls on your very own full day private tour of central Scotland in our Land Rover Discovery. See the castles, the lochs, the hills and even some of the filming locations that makes Scotland the stunning country it is today. All our tours can be personalised to your needs and be as action packed or relaxed as you want.

Inclusions: All guiding fees, All vehicle costs including parking (Parking at Midhope castle is not included), Hotel pickup and drop-off , Air-conditioned vehicle, Child Seats (must be pre-arranged), Land Rover Discovery for up to 6 adults, Bottled water

Exclusions: Bottled water is available in the car free of charge (all other food and drink is not included within the tour), Gratuities, Entry to the sites are not included (Castles, Distilleries etc)

Reviewed By janinaw574

we booked an online tour with Chris through Edinburgh. It was really fantastic, thank you! Chris is very knowledgeable and passionate about this beautiful city, it was almost like being there in person. Cannot recommend him enough.

2. Virtual Live Private Outlander Tour

Linlithgow Palace, Kirkgate, Linlithgow EH49 7AL, UK Mary's Meanders
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

Dreaming of Scotland? Join us on our new Virtual Outlander Tour of Scotland. Based on our Classic Outlander tour, it will come to you live, via Zoom. Enjoy the Outlander experience as if you were here in with us. 3 great reasons to join us Join us from your own home on a virtual tour of beautiful Outlander locations in Scotland with award-winning guides. It’s the same tour we gave Outlander author, Diana Gabaldon. Been on a tour before? Relive it with us and share your favourite moments. This would also be a great way of organising a meet up with a group of Outlander friends. Get a group together and we will set up a personal tour just for you. Get in touch.

Inclusions: Private Virtual Classic Outlander Tour with a tour guide

Exclusions: This a virtual tour via Zoom from the comfort of your own home., Gratuities

Reviewed By KudlyKoala

Emma at Mary’s Meanders is Amazing! All our interactions with these operators has been exceptional. Nothing is too much trouble, prompt response to all emails. All our requests were met, highly organised group of people.....Super Service. Highly recommended if you are after a personal experience. Many thanks all the way from Australia.

3. Bannockburn Battlefield (Outside Tour operated by Freedom Tour Today)

The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, Glasgow Road, Whins Of Milton, Stirling FK7 0LJ, UK Freedom Tour Today
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5.0 based on 12 reviews

Freedom Tour Today was set up to welcome visitors to Stirling. Our priority is to give a warm welcome and to thank visitors for taking the time to remember Robert the Bruce, James Douglas and all those who fell at Bannockburn. The tour is based outdoor and covers the Scottish Wars of Independence, the Battle in 1314, the aftermath up to the current day. It had always amazed me the number of tourists that arrive, spend less than 10 minutes at the site of Scotland's greatest battle and then depart Bannockburn. I felt the story of the battle, why it was fought and how the Scot's were victorious deserved to be told. I shall entertain you with stories of the main characters and the small folk who influenced and took part in the battle. We also do a Stirling Bridge tour, the scene of William Wallace’s greatest victory. Freedom Tour Today is the perfect way to welcome visitors to the area and learn more about why so many people hold these historic sites and Scotland dear to their heart.

Inclusions: Tour guide

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Reviewed By 426damienk

Really interesting and informative tour about the Battle of Stirling bridge with Steve and his dog Mollie. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone interested in Scottish history or if you just know about the battle from films like Braveheart.

4. 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
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4.9 based on 222 reviews

Scotland is a big place and with so many amazing places to explore you’ll be right to be excited about your 3 day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Highlands tour. With a guarantee of discovering new and interesting things and seeing breathtaking scenery and landscapes around every turn. You’ll see why so many movie locations were based and filmed here in Scotland, with views that inspired the likes of Harry Potter (Glenfinnan Viaduct) and James Bond (Glencoe), and more. You’ll be spoilt for choice for getting that perfect picture, especially in the Isle of Skye where many of Scotland’s myths and legends come from. See mountains created by giants, enchanted waters that will give you eternal youth, and hear songs of the faerie folk in the wind. This is a tour that will fill you with joy and leave you with a feeling that can only come from being truly immersed in the moment - something truly priceless. Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews!

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Accommodation is not included, Backpackers/Youth Hostel Dorm Bed (£25 per person per night), Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse Double/Twin Room (£90 to £100 per person per night), Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse Single Room (£55 to £80 per person per night), If you wish, you may BOOK YOUR OWN ACCOMMODATION in Inverness for 2 nights. Please advise the operator if you wish to do this and inform them of the name/address.

Reviewed By iswrt

Going on this tour is one of the best decisions I have made. I was quite nervous to begin with as I usually travel alone but our tour guide John made us all feel welcome very quick. All of the stops and sights were so beautiful and like nothing I have seen before. The people on the tour were also very kind. Highly recommend!

5. Outlander Adventure Small-Group Day Tour from Glasgow

Buchanan Bus Station, Killermont St, Glasgow G2 3NW, UK Rabbie's
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4.9 based on 52 reviews

Visit three castles and a well-preserved village on this adventure through the sights and stories of Outlander. There are moments that make your heart pound, scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat, and kisses that cause you to blush. But no matter how thrilling Outlander is, we think the real-life sites are even more emotive. This is because visiting the locations lets you step back in time and wander through unchanged, ancient villages. It gives you the chance to gaze up in awe at the mighty walls of a 600-year-old castle. And it allows you to venture through the real battlefields of the Jacobite uprising. On this tour, your guide takes you through a fantastic array of Outlander sights while telling you all about the history that inspired the famous show. So, take this time-travelling adventure and discover that the real locations and history are as exciting as the show itself.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach, Small group tour (max 16 people)

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

Reviewed By maholi_leask

What an incredible experience. I’d definitely recommend this tour for anyone who wants to know and see more of this beautiful country ????????????????????????????. George was very friendly, kind and knowledgable. Each stop was absolutely breathtaking! My main reason for booking the tour was visiting Oban and I’m so pleased I had plenty of time to wonder around, eat and visit the tower. Technical details you might want to know: We came back to the bus station at 6:40 pm ( I got in on time to get my bus back to Aberdeen yeii) butwe had perfect weather and minimal traffic Plenty of stops. Public toilets in Oban charge 50p so make sure you have coins. Thank you for helping me with that George . You are a star (in Netflix and real life) PS: I absolutely LOVE the Scottish playlist ???????????????????? Thank you for showing us around ????????????????????????????

6. 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. :)

7. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Day Trip from Edinburgh

Deacon's House Cafe, 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
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4.9 based on 89 reviews

Travel through the heartland of Scotland, exploring some of the most important historical sites in Scottish history on your 1 Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky tour. With more time off the bus you’ll activate all the senses, the smell of fresh Scottish air, the touch of stone on castles hundreds of years old, the sound Scottish music and stories told by your Driver Guide, and sights of some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. This tour is a treat for fans of Game of Thrones, Outlander and Monty Python, as your stops allow you to explore the great halls and towers found in these movies and shows. If you’re looking to embrace Scottish culture and history, look no further because you’ve found your tour.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Driver/guide, Live commentary onboard, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Tour takes place on a 29-seater air-conditioned mini-coach

Exclusions: Optional entrance fee to Stirling Castle (£14.50 for over-16s, £8.70 for under 16s), Optional entrance fee to Doune Castle (£9 for over 16s, £7.20 for under-16s), Optional Deanston Whisky Distillery Tour (£10 for over-18s, £5 for under-18s), Food and drinks, Gratuities, No WiFi or bathrooms onboard, although stops are every 30-60 minutes

Reviewed By iswrt

Going on this tour is one of the best decisions I have made. I was quite nervous to begin with as I usually travel alone but our tour guide John made us all feel welcome very quick. All of the stops and sights were so beautiful and like nothing I have seen before. The people on the tour were also very kind. Highly recommend!

8. 4-Day Islay and the Whisky Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh EH1 3DQ, UK Rabbie's
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4.9 based on 48 reviews

Visit the Isle of Islay in the Scottish Hebrides on a 4-day tour from Edinburgh, and discover its famously friendly people, stunning landscapes, and most importantly – its whisky! Having produced Scotland's finest smoky malt whiskies for more than 200 years, Islay provides the perfect base for whisky lovers and novices alike. Enjoy three nights of accommodation in the 4-star Bowmore Distillery Cottages (not available on Wednesday departures)** and discover up to six different distilleries, including big-name sites like Laphroaig and Ardbeg, with a guide. Numbers are limited to 16 on this small-group tour, ensuring you’ll see the best of Islay with personalized attention with your guide. ** (Monday and Friday departures: only B&B available; Wednesday departures only 3-star Hotel available)

Inclusions: 3 nights en-suite accommodation, Driver Guide, Transport by top of the range Mercedes mini-coach, Ferry crossings

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop off, Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified, Entrance fees to the distilleries and Kimartin House Museum

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 ☀️☔????

9. Loch Ness, Highlands and Whisky Distillery Day Tour from Edinburgh

Deacon's House Cafe, 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
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4.9 based on 460 reviews

When exploring Scotland on your 1 Day Loch Ness, Glencoe, Highlands & Whisky Tour, you will get to experience the very best of Scotland in a jam packed adventure. This tour is perfect for those who might have limited time and want to get the most for their money. With breathtaking scenery and landscapes of unspoilt nature you’ll travel the Scottish highlands, getting away from the hussle and bustle of modern life. Experience Scottish culture through the folklore of Scotland’s myths and legends, historical sites and learn about the process of making Scotch whisky - Scotland’s national drink. Every twist and turn of the winding Scottish road has a new photo opportunity, a new story to be told and a new experience to be had.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Local guide, Pick-up and drop-off from designated meeting points, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, The optional whisky distillery tour costs £10 per adult, £5 for children under 18 no whisky tasting, Optional boat cruise on Loch Ness costs £14 per adult, £9.50 for children under 16

Reviewed By iswrt

Going on this tour is one of the best decisions I have made. I was quite nervous to begin with as I usually travel alone but our tour guide John made us all feel welcome very quick. All of the stops and sights were so beautiful and like nothing I have seen before. The people on the tour were also very kind. Highly recommend!

10. Stirling Castle and Whisky Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Waterloo Place, Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh, UK Heart of Scotland Tours
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4.8 based on 331 reviews

Join this small group tour (maximum 16 passengers) and follow in the footsteps of great Scottish heroes on this historic and scenic trip into the Scottish heartlands. Enjoy a day with at least 5 fabulous stops including Stirling Castle, whisky tour and tasting at the Glengoyne Distillery and a scenic drive through the Highlands to the legendary Loch Lomond.

Inclusions: Live commentary on board, Local guide, Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-coach

Exclusions: All entrance fees, Food and drinks, Gratuities

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. :)

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