First-Timer's Guide to Rail Tours in Edinburgh
By Editorial Team · Last updated 16/08/2026
- Best season
- May to September
- How to get there
- 4.5 hours by train from London King's Cross, or fly into Edinburgh Airport
- Avg. visit duration
- 2-3 days
If you’re considering your first rail tour in Edinburgh, let us help set your expectations. We offer five distinct rail tours departing from the city, ranging significantly in both price and duration. You can find tours available between £19 and £259, with a total time commitment varying from 330 minutes to an impressive 810 minutes – that’s roughly just over half a day right through to a full day excursion. The average customer rating across all these options is a very respectable 4.7 out of 5, demonstrating the generally positive experiences enjoyed by travellers.
When comparing rail tours, it's worthwhile considering what kind of experience you’re after. Some tours are shared experiences, offering a more affordable option and opportunities to meet fellow travellers. Others are private tours, providing a more intimate and tailored journey. The duration of the tour is a key factor; shorter trips will naturally be less expensive but offer a condensed version of the scenery. We also recommend comparing the price range – this can heavily influence what’s included within your tour.
Currently, the ‘Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh’ consistently receives the highest rating at 4.8/5, with an impressive 1571 reviews and a cost of £200. This tour represents the longest duration (810 minutes) and is positioned within the higher price tier. However, all our tours offer fantastic opportunities to experience Scotland’s beautiful landscapes via rail.
We understand that embarking on a new travel activity can feel daunting. But we're confident you'll find a rail tour in Edinburgh perfectly suited to your interests and budget. The high average rating across all our offerings reflects the quality of these journeys, and we believe they provide an accessible and memorable way to explore Scotland’s stunning scenery.
Don’t hesitate to browse the available options and select the one that best matches your timeframe and desired level of experience.