7 Day Scotland Itinerary: Explore the World of Outlander Beyond The Screen

Are you an Outlander fan looking for the ultimate Scottish adventure? Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Diana Gabaldon’s novels or a recent convert to the TV series, Scotland has so much to offer in terms of luxury travel locations. From quaint medieval castles and widespread whisky distilleries, it is no wonder that Scotland continues to be considered one of Europe’s most captivating and culturally diverse countries. We’ve crafted the perfect 7-day Outlander itinerary for luxury travelers who want an exclusive, one-of-a-kind experience. From walking in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire Fraser across Inverness and Culloden Moor to discovering more about Bonnie Prince Charlie at Eilean Donan Castle – this trip will give you all that plus so much more. So pack your bags, get ready for some Highland adventures and come along with us as we discover what makes a trip through Scotland unique and why Outlander fans will particularly appreciate these special locations.

Day 1- Arrive in Edinburgh

To being any 7 day Scotland itinerary, Edinburgh is a must. Edinburgh is a vibrant and beautiful city that serves as the capital of Scotland. It is brimming with history, spectacular castles and stunning gardens – not to mention endless restaurants, bars and shops. Outlander fans will especially appreciate Edinburgh’s connection to the series, as many scenes were filmed in various locations across the city, like Greyfriar’s Churchyard and The Real Mary King Close. With its cobblestone streets and fairytale-like architecture, it’s easy to understand why Edinburgh has been chosen as the backdrop for Jamie and Claire Fraser’s journey through time. Spend your days exploring Edinburgh Castle, where you can take in breathtaking views of the skyline from atop the Royal Mile. Or wander through Princes Street Gardens, which offers a more peaceful and nature-filled environment. Edinburgh is such a great city and even makes it on our Ultimate Scotland Trip Itinerary. 

Day 2 – Inverness and Doune Castle: 

Take a scenic drive north to Inverness and explore some of Scotland’s most iconic locations. Castle Leoch, the home of Clan MacKenzie in Outlander, is a fictional castle in Scotland. The castle is a vital setting throughout the series and is depicted as a grand medieval fortress just outside Inverness. Readers and viewers of Outlander will recognize the castle from scenes including Jamie’s fight against Black Jack Randall, Dougal MacKenzie and Claire’s visit to the witch trial in Cranesmuir, and their subsequent wedding. While Castle Leoch does not exist in reality, it was modeled after Doune Castle — one of Scotland’s most impressive 14th-century castle ruins — located near Stirling. Visitors can explore the grounds and get an up-close look at this iconic setting from Outlander. For special access, consider booking an Outlander Adventure Small Group Day Tour!

Continue on to Pitlochry, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Scotland’s countryside. Of course, any true Outlander fan will remember that Craigh na Dun is thought to be the stone that Jamie and Claire use to pass through time. Unfortunately, you will be disappointed if you hope to travel there expecting to see the standing stone circle as it was a figment of imagination made for te show. “We built the stones at our studio. The stones are made out of styrofoam. You could pick them up by yourself,” showrunner Ronald Moore explained on the Outlander Podcast.

After taking the views and enjoying a few quiet moments, we head out to nearby Culloden Moor, the site of the famous battle between Jacobite forces loyal to Bonnie Prince Charlie and British troops in 1746. It was here that the last major battle on British soil took place — a fateful day that changed Scottish and English history forever. The battlefield has been left untouched and is open to visitors who want to explore its tragic past. 

Day 3 – Castle Leod & Whiskey Tasting: 

Spend day three of your 7 day Scotland itinerary at “Castle Leoch”, the seat of Clan Mackenzie and home to events during Mary Queen of Scotts and Charles Edward Stuart’s period. The actual castle Leod has been lived in by the same family for well over 500 years who found themselves at the epicenter of Scottish and Highland politics. They were heavily involved in the Jacobite Rising of 1745 and many clan battles that led the family towards dark outcomes, such as sentences of death for High Treason and appellations, such as awarding an Earldom. Despite its turbulent past, the castle has remained one of the most romantic, beautiful, and unspoiled castles in the Highlands.

Finish your day with a whiskey tasting at Glen Ord Distillery before strolling around Beauly and exploring ancient Beauly Priory, a stunning ruin in the Scottish Highlands just outside Inverness. It was founded by John Byset of Lovat, who, in 1230, brought a group of monks from France to the area. The Priory flourished until the Reformation and has been open to visitors ever since. Visitors can explore the grounds and admire its beautiful architecture, which includes an intricately carved doorway, arches, and graceful columns.

Inside the ruins, you can still make out elements of the church’s history, including an ornately decorated chapter house, where meetings and discussions were held. The grounds are also home to a small cemetery dotted with ancient headstones. Beauly Priory is a tranquil spot for visitors to explore, offering a fascinating look into Scotland’s past.

Overnight stay will be in Inverness. If Inverness is a place of interest, consider using the tactic of slow travel to spend more leisure time in this beautiful city. 

Day 4 – Culloden & Clava Cairns: 

This morning you will start the day heading out to the Culloden Battlefield for a guided tour through its history. As you may remember, Culloden was the site of the final battle of the Jacobite Rising in 1746, which saw the forces of Bonnie Prince Charlie defeated by government troops. The battle had significant consequences for Scottish history and culture, as it marked the end of Jacobite resistance and led to changes in Scottish society. 

For fans of the “Outlander” TV series, the Culloden Battlefield has particular significance as it is a significant plot point in the show. In season two, protagonist Claire Randall travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland and becomes involved in the Jacobite cause. She knows that Culloden is coming and tries to prevent it from happening but ultimately fails to change history.

The real Battle of Culloden is significant because it had a lasting impact on Scottish society. After the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces, the British government suppressed many Highland traditions, including the Gaelic language and dress. This had a profound effect on Scottish culture and identity.

Today, visitors can explore the Culloden Battlefield on foot, taking in its historical significance and learning about its impact on Scottish history. An informative visitor center also provides detailed information about the battle and its aftermath.

Overall, the Culloden Battlefield is an important destination for anyone interested in Scottish history or “Outlander” fandom. Its significance extends beyond just one TV show or book series and speaks to the broader cultural identity of the Scottish people.

This afternoon you will travel to Clava Cairns — an ancient burial ground first excavated in 1855 and believed to date back 4,000 years to the Bronze Age. The Clava Cairns are famous for their distinctive style of construction, which includes standing stones arranged in a circular pattern around a central chamber. The rocks are carefully aligned with the sun and moon, suggesting that they were used for astronomical and religious observations.

The site has gained popularity among fans of the “Outlander” TV series due to its appearance in season one. In the show, Claire Randall travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland and visits the cairns with her husband, Frank. The scene highlights the mystical nature of the site and its connection to Scottish history. This day may be a favorite on your 7 day Scotland itinerary if the “Outlander” TV series is your passion. 

Day 5 – Auchterarder & Urquhart Castle:

This morning starts with a cruise down Loch Ness, a large freshwater loch located in the Scottish Highlands, renowned for its legendary inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster. The loch is approximately 23 miles long and up to 755 feet deep, making it the second-largest Scottish loch by volume. Visitors come from all over the world to participate in activities such as boat tours, fishing, and hiking around picturesque areas. Several historic castles and ruins are situated along the loch’s shores, including Urquhart Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Consider booking a private tour of the Castle for the ultimate experience. 

Despite numerous expeditions and investigations over the years, no conclusive evidence proves or disproves the existence of the Loch Ness Monster, which adds to the intrigue and mystery surrounding this beautiful Scottish landmark.

After exploring the lake, we continue on towards Auchterarder, where you can visit Urquhart castle—a medieval fortress on Loch Ness’s banks! The castle dates back to the 13th century and has witnessed many important events in Scottish history. In “Outlander,” Urquhart Castle was used as a filming location for several scenes, including the scene where Jamie Fraser receives his scars from Black Jack Randall. Fans can visit the castle and explore its ruins, which include towers, gatehouses, and a great hall. There are also interactive displays providing insight into the castle’s history and role in Scottish conflicts like the Wars of Independence. For “Outlander” fans, visiting Urquhart Castle is an opportunity to step into the world of their favorite characters and experience some of the show’s iconic locations. This castle is a must on any 7 day Scotland itinerary. 

Day 6 – Edinburgh Falconry Class: 

Get ready for something unique! Take part in an exhilarating falconry class where you’ll learn about birds of prey from experienced professionals who will show you how they use these birds as hunting partners! Falconry is an ancient hunting tradition practiced in Scotland for centuries. This sport involves using trained birds of prey, such as falcons, hawks, and eagles, to hunt small game like rabbits and pheasants. In Scotland, there are many venues where visitors can experience falconry firsthand and learn about this fascinating practice.

Round off your 7 day itinerary to Scotland with a visit to one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks. Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress located on top of an extinct volcano in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. The castle has played a significant role in Scottish history for centuries and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. It has also gained popularity among fans of the hit TV series “Outlander” due to its appearance in several episodes. For a behind the scenes experience, book the Secrets of the Royal Mile with Edinburgh Castle Skip The Line Tour. 

The castle dates back to the 12th century and has witnessed many important events in Scottish history, including battles and sieges. It was also used as a royal residence by Scottish monarchs, such as Mary Queen of Scots, who gave birth to her son James VI there.

For “Outlander” fans, Edinburgh Castle is particularly significant because it was used as a filming location for several key scenes. In season one, the castle served as the location for Black Jack Randall’s headquarters and where he interrogated Jamie Fraser. Later on, it was used again in season three when Claire returns to Scotland after being away for many years.

Visitors can explore various parts of the castle, including St. Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest building in Edinburgh), the Great Hall (which features armor and weapons from centuries past), and the Scottish Crown Jewels exhibit (which includes Scotland’s crown jewels). Daily performances by costumed actors also bring Scottish history to life.

Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history or “Outlander” fandom. Its rich history and stunning views make it an unforgettable experience for visitors from all over the world. Explore its dark history or admire its stunning architecture–however, you choose to spend your last day here will surely be an unforgettable experience!  

Day 7 – Departure: 

Today is the final day on your 7 day itinerary to Scotland. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you many wonderful memories of this magical Outlander tour! Enjoy the rest of your journey; we hope you’ll return soon for another Outlander adventure! If you are looking to extend your trip, consider adding on some time in Ireland!