The United Kingdom and Ireland, nestled in Northwestern Europe, share a profound history and cultural connection. This comprehensive 8-day tour offers a captivating exploration of both nations. Begin in Edinburgh, the enchanting capital of Scotland, with its stunning skyline and historic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the shores of Loch Ness and its iconic Urquhart Castle, either by cruising in search of the legendary monster or visiting the extraordinary Giant's Causeway.
About this trip
This 8-day adventure will lead you through must-see sites in both England and Scotland, inviting you to discover each destination on foot, so don your comfortable shoes for a journey of exploration. Embrace the rich history, cultural gems, and breathtaking landscapes as you navigate the diverse tapestry of these two captivating countries.
Day 1 Canada - London
Depart for London.
Day 2 London
After arrival, transfer to the hotel. Check the information boards in the hotel reception area for details of the welcome meeting with your guide.
Day 3 London
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS: Visit London. Evening transfer.
Get to know London on a guided tour featuring style, culture and history. See Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, where we shall be able to watch the famous “Changing of the Guard” (depending on the season). Free afternoon. In the evening, we will meet at a a meeting point in Piccadilly to walk to Leicester Square, China Town and Soho with its amazing atmosphere, its theatres and bustle. Time for dinner in this area with numerous ethnic restaurants (Indian, Thai, Chinese, international, and so on). Return to the hotel from Piccadilly.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 London - Cambridge - York - Durham
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Picturesque countryside with hills and woods.
We start the day leaving London towards northern England. Our first stop is Cambridge to admire its beautiful residential colleges. After lunch, we will continue to York where its cathedral, Roman walls and lively shopping streets will create a charming memory, some free time to stroll around. Afterwards, we will continue north to Durham. Explore this charming medieval town full of life which has a wonderful cathedral right in front of the castle.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Durham - Alnwick - Edinburgh
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Cross into Scotland. Castles, views over the sea. Sightseeing of Edinburgh.
Today we will travel to Scotland, stopping in Alnwick a picturesque town with lovely gardens and a large medieval castle which was used in the Harry Potter films. We will continue to Edinburgh, arriving at noon. This is Scotland’s capital city and one of the most active cities in Northern Europe. Its monumental center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its castle overlooks the city’s steep streets and parks. We will enjoy a sightseeing tour with a local guide.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Edinburgh - Pitlochry - Inverness - Loch Ness - Glasgow
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS: Magnificent countryside of high mountains and lakes. Boat trip. Loch Ness.
We continue to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with a coffee and stroll in Pitlochry, a charming little village. We will continue and pass by Inverness in the north of Scotland, a city located very near the mysterious Loch Ness. After lunch we visit the Urquhart medieval castle, from here we will take a boat trip on the dark waters of the lake. Afterwards, we will pass through Fort August with its sluice gate system and Fort William, the tourist center at the foot of Ben Nevis (the highest summit in the United Kingdom). We will return south through the high plateaus where it is possible to glimpse the snow before visiting Loch Lomond, one of the most popular lakes in Scotland. We arrive in Glasgow at the end of the day. Short stroll around the city center and accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7 Glasgow - London
Departure from Glasgow for London.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 London - Canada
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast