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Experience Loch Ness the Easy Way

4.5(653)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Loch Ness Tours Tickets
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From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Alexander Josef Betz
DE

Alexander

Germany
Apr 2025
5/5
The trip was amazing! Great guides and a beautiful scenery. Especially the three sisters (mountains). The tour is, obiously, quite long and the breaks were therefore a bit shorter than would be ideal. But that as a first experience of the highlands I can fully recommend it!
Phakhrunisaa binte Phiroze
SG

Phakhrunisaa

Singapore
Feb 2025
5/5
Our tour guide was great. He was knowledgeable, witty and humourous. Never a bore. Would definitely want timberland tours for my next Scottish tour again
Sara Govantes Oca
ES

Sara

Spain
Jun 2025
5/5
Marita was really nice, she was a very good guide and made sure we were having a great experience. The stops were very adequate to the expectations of the trip.
Shakeel Ur-Rehman
GB

Shakeel

United Kingdom
Apr 2025
5/5
Regarding tour management, fully observed timmings, stops soaced well timed and didnt make us feel tired, Jack our guide was very nice, informative and involved throughout. Rest the scenic views of highlands made everything so relaxing and comfortable.

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The ultimate Loch Ness tours

Loch Ness, one of Scotland's most famous and mysterious spots, is about 175 miles from Edinburgh. The loch itself is 23 miles long and, in some places, over 700 feet deep, making it the largest body of freshwater by volume in the UK. However, what really sets Loch Ness apart is the legend of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

While you can absolutely visit Loch Ness on a quick visit, booking a day trip in the area is worth considering if you want to soak in the true magic of the Highlands. There’s so much more to explore around Loch Ness than you might think!

Why Loch Ness tours are a must-do

Hassle-free transportation
Historical importance
Views and landscapes
Beyond Loch Ness
1/4

Hassle-free transportation

Booking your Loch Ness tour saves you the trouble of figuring out transportation facilities. Your tour includes round-trip transfers in an AC bus/coach with set departure points.

Historical importance

Booking these tours also allows you to learn about historical stories and legends associated with Loch Ness and other sites through your English-speaking guide.

Views and landscapes

A day trip to Loch Ness starts with a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands. As you leave the city behind, you’ll pass through villages and hills into the more dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, home to Glencoe, Fort Augustus, Urquhart Castle, and more.

Beyond Loch Ness

In addition to Loch Ness, the tours also have stops along the way, including Urquhart Castle, Callander, Rannoch Moor, and Loch Lomond.

Ticket options for Loch Ness tours

  • Types of day trips: There are two ticket options for Loch Ness tours. You can choose either the Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip or the Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip with a Loch Ness Cruise.
  • What’s included: The Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip includes an English-speaking guide on-board the AC bus/coach. Multilingual audio guides in French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Russian & Chinese (Mandarin) are also available. These tickets also offer an upgrade to a Loch Ness cruise. The Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip with a Loch Ness Cruise includes round-trip transfers in an AC bus/coach with an English-speaking guide onboard. 
  • Age restrictions: The day trip without the Loch Ness cruise is restricted to children under the age of 4, and the day trip with the Loch Ness cruise is restricted to children under the age of 5. Please avoid booking these tickets if you are traveling with infants. 
  • Wheelchair accessibility: Parts of the day trip are not wheelchair accessible. Please consider this when booking your tickets.

Cancellation policy: Both day trips can be canceled up to 24 hours before departure.

How to get from Loch Ness

Your Loch Ness day trip tickets conveniently include round-trip transfers aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach or bus. Loch Ness is located 175 miles from Edinburgh, so the total travel time will depend on the specific tour you select. Options include the standard one-day excursion to Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands, or a similar tour that also incorporates a Loch Ness cruise. Choosing a ticket with round-trip transfers is the most stress-free way to navigate your journey to and around the stunning landscapes of Loch Ness:

Round-trip transfers

Tour guide with transfer vehicle in Edinburgh for Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands day trip.
  • Comfortable transfers: The round-trip day trips are in AC coaches, saving you the hassle of figuring out your own transportation to and from Loch Ness.
  • Pre-planned: Since these tours have a fixed itinerary, you can just sit back and relax on your day trip.
  • Expert guide: Your English-speaking guide will enrich your trip with stories, anecdotes, and cultural insights of the places you visit on your trip.
  • Quick online booking: No queues and no stress, simply choose between the ticket options available based on your preferences for hassle-free travel.
  • Multiple stops: In addition to other things you can see on your trip, the tour also includes multiple rest stops for light refreshments and lunch, ensuring you have a comfortable journey. 
  • Boarding points: Both tours start and end in central Edinburgh, which is easily accessible by public transport.

Other options

Take the ScotRail from Waverly Station to Inverness, which is the closest railway station to Loch Ness.

Best for: Convenience

Time taken: 5 hours

Approx. price: from £40.80

Take megabus M90 or megabus M91 to Farraline Park in Inverness. From here, you will need to take another (16) to get to Loch Ness.

Best for: Scenic route

Time taken: 5.5 hours

Approx. price: from £13.30

Best time to go on Loch Ness tours

Loch Ness and Glencoe landscape on a guided tour from Edinburgh through the Scottish Highlands.
  • For sightseeing and Loch Ness cruises: Summer (Jun–Aug) is warm and dry, making this the ideal time for enjoying boat tours on the loch and taking in the scenic views. Long daylight hours allow for more exploration. Spring (Apr–May) has mild temperatures and fewer crowds make this a pleasant time for sightseeing.
  • For outdoor activities and hiking: Spring (Apr–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring the outdoors. The landscapes are particularly beautiful in spring, with wildflowers in bloom, and in autumn, with vibrant fall foliage.
  • For wildlife spotting: Spring (Apr–May) is a great time to see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and birds.
  • For a quieter and budget experience: If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind colder weather, winter (Nov–Mar) can be a good option. Keep in mind that some attractions may have limited hours, and daylight hours are shorter.

Tips to make the most of your Loch Ness tours

  • How to get there: Consider the best mode of transport to get to Loch Ness based on factors like cost, travel time, and convenience. If you’re choosing public transport, get acquainted with the schedules.
  • What to pack: Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable. A waterproof jacket with a hood is essential. Rainfall is common, and it can be windy, especially around the loch. Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking and light hiking. If you plan on exploring the Urquhart Castle ruins or the surrounding trails, good grip and support are important. Wear clothing made from moisture-wicking materials (like merino wool or synthetic blends) for your base layers. You can even carry a cold lunch, but hot food is not allowed on the bus.
  • What to do at Loch Ness: Start early to beat the crowds and maximize your time at Loch Ness. There are a variety of boat cruises at Loch Ness. Another activity that is not on the tourist trail is to visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition after dark. The center offers a special Night Explorer tour, letting you experience the loch and its mystery at night.
  • Visit Urquhart Castle: Entry to Urquhart Castle is not included in your day trips. If you would like to visit it, book your tickets on-site. The castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland.
  • Beyond Loch Ness: To make the most of your visit, consider exploring some of the area's other attractions. A short drive from Loch Ness, you'll find the Falls of Foyers, where there's also a cafe and gift shop. Or, take a trip to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the railway bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films. It's about an hour's drive from Loch Ness, and you can walk across it, ride the Jacobite Steam Train over it, or simply admire its beauty from a distance. While it's good to have a plan, be open to recommendations, especially from your guide, to discover even more of the area's hidden gems.

Frequently Asked Questions about Loch Ness tours

How early should I arrive at the departure point?

It’s recommended to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth check-in process and avoid any last-minute rush.

Will I have free time at Loch Ness?

Yes, most tours allow some free time at Loch Ness, giving you the chance to explore the area, take photos, visit local shops, or enjoy a meal with a view of the loch.

Are there restroom facilities available during the tour?

Restroom facilities are available at various stops along the route, including visitor centers and rest areas. Your guide will inform you about the scheduled stops for restroom breaks.

Do I need to bring food and drinks, or are they provided?

It’s recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you have specific dietary requirements. However, hot food is not allowed on the AC coaches. There will also be opportunities to purchase food during rest stops at Callander and Fort William.

Can I find vegetarian/vegan food options?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan food options available on Loch Ness day trips. Most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and there are also a few dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the area.

Is the tour suitable for children and families?

Absolutely! The Loch Ness tours are family-friendly and offer a great way for children to learn about Scotland’s history and legends. The long journey is broken up with plenty of stops, making it manageable for younger travelers. However, do note that these day trips are restricted to children under the age of 4.

Is there a chance to go on a boat cruise on Loch Ness?

You can go on a Loch Ness cruise. However, this is not included in the ticket and has to be purchased separately.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?

Souvenirs can be purchased at various stops along the tour, including visitor centers and gift shops at attractions like Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness. Don’t forget to pick up a memento of your trip!

Are the tours accessible for travelers with mobility issues?

Parts of the Loch Ness day trip are not suitable for wheelchair users and for prams/strollers.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are generally not allowed on these tours, except for service animals. If you need to bring a service animal, it’s best to inform the tour operator in advance.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.