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Home/United Kingdom/Scotland/The Scottish Highlands/Inverness/Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine)

Urquhart Castle: Iconic Loch Ness History & Tours

Step back in time at Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine), the most iconic historic landmark overlooking the mysterious waters of Loch Ness. Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands near Drumnadrochit, this breathtaking ruin offers an unparalleled journey through medieval history. Whether you are booking a guided historical tour, a scenic Loch Ness cruise, or a private adventure, you will experience the epic scale of Scotland's heritage. Discover ancient battlefields, stunning highland landscapes, and legendary tales that make this a must-visit attraction for every traveler. Book your unforgettable Highland experience today!

4.9/5 avg rating19,000+ reviewsFrom $73 per person81% free cancellation

At a glance

Rating

Rating

4.9★ average

Based on 19,021 pooled reviews with ~96% positive sentiment

Tour Price

Tour Price

$211–$953 typical

Median price is $446, with a full range of $74–$1,259

Tour Length

Tour Length

6.8–12 hours typical

Median duration is 8 hours

Tour Type

Tour Type

Sightseeing & Nature

89% are sightseeing tours and 78% focus on nature

Booking Perks

Booking Perks

81% free cancellation

83% of options offer instant confirmation

Tour Format

Tour Format

62% private tours

79% of options are guided tours

101 Products

The Ultimate Isle of Skye Day Tour from Inverness

The Ultimate Isle of Skye Day Tour from Inverness

12 hrsFree cancellation
4.96 (1,226 reviews)
94.32%
5.68%
Excellenthilariousexceptional storytelling
Viator
$148
Book now
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The Ultimate Isle of Skye Day Tour from Inverness
Summary

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and stories of this magical island with a local Highland company. This is the only scheduled tour which will take you to both the highlights of Northern Skye (including Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr and Portree) and the Fairy Pools, in one action-packed day...

Inclusions
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Live commentary on board
  • Experienced driver
Exclusions
  • Hotel pick-up/drop-off
  • Snacks/drinks
Itinerary
  • Loch Ness
  • Eilean Donan Castle
  • Portree
  • Kilt Rock
  • The Old Man of Storr
  • Fairy Pools
  • Skye Bridge
  • Urquhart Castle
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Walking (approximately 1.5 miles to and from the Fairy Pools) is involved, and some of this is on rough terrain, Seats will be assigned - groups/couples will be seated together, Unfortunately, due to the duration of the tour and time on the coach, this tour is not appropriate for children under the age of six, We would recommend wearing/bringing warm clothes, hiking boots and waterproof jackets
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Loch Ness, Outlander & Urquhart Castle with Cruise from Inverness

Loch Ness, Outlander & Urquhart Castle with Cruise from Inverness

9 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.92 (1,583 reviews)
94.32%
5.68%
Fun tripgreat tour guidestunning
Viator
$72
Book now
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Loch Ness, Outlander & Urquhart Castle with Cruise from Inverness
Summary

Depart central Inverness and journey to the world-famous Loch Ness, where you will join a cruise to view the ruins of the 13th century, Urquhart Castle. Entrance to Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness Cruise is optional. You will have free time to enjoy lunch in one of the charming local cafés in beautifu...

Inclusions
  • Urquhart Castle Entrance (if option selected)
  • Loch Ness Cruise (30mins) (if option selected)
  • Local Scottish English Speaking Guide
Exclusions
  • Food and Drink
  • Culloden Battlefield Exhibition (buy on site)
  • Highland Whisky Experience
Itinerary
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Beauly Priory
  • Culloden Battlefield
  • Clava Cairns
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals., Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities., Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5., In cases of extreme weather, the Loch Ness boat cruise may be cancelled on short notice. If you have purchased ticket for this you will be refunded., Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them to board and disembark., If downloading an audio guide, remember to bring your headset., Due to vehicle availability, there may be instances where this tour runs on a bigger bus., The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures., The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

9 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.84 (1,070 reviews)
Viator
$1,061
Book now
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Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness
Summary

Enjoy a day trip exploring Isle of Skye in a comfortable, air-conditioned Land Rover or minibus that seats up to 8 people. Relax as your Professional, Scottish, Kilted tour guide takes you on a journey through Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, Old Man of Storr and much more. Eat a 1-h...

Inclusions
  • Air-conditioned vehicle - Land Rover or minibus
  • Pick-up & Drop-off from your accommodation if in Inverness or en route
  • Professional Kilted Tour Guide
  • Private Transportation
Exclusions
  • Lunch (own expense)
  • Entrance to Urquhart Castle - time does not allow
  • Entrance to Eilean Donan Castle
Itinerary
  • Happy Tours
  • Caledonian Canal
  • Loch Ness
  • Drumnadrochit VisitScotland Information Centre
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Loch Cluanie
  • Skye Bridge
  • VisitScotland Portree iCentre
  • The Old Man of Storr
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Operates in all weather conditions, dress comfortably, Children must be accompanied by an adult (ages 6-17), Due to the duration of this tour, not recommended for children under 6 years of age, Slightly uneven terrain, which is approximately 1 kilometer in total and will be over several tour stops. The longest walk is 300 meters, Not wheelchair accessible; some locations are not wheelchair accessible, Booster seats are available upon request, This tour is not available to people who are on a cruise ship in the Port of Invergordon. This is because the meeting point for this tour is 25 miles from the ship and we can't guarantee at the end of the tour you would be back on time for your ship to sail.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

8 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.88 (933 reviews)
96.13%
3.87%
Greatperfect tourHighly recommend
Viator
$1,021
Book now
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Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness
Summary

Enjoy an 8-hour trip to get a flavor of the lush hills and glens in and around the world famous and mysterious Loch Ness. Experience tastes of this unique culture, history and landscape. The private tour will be in a comfortable, air-conditioned Land Rover or minibus that seats up to 8 people. Relax...

Inclusions
  • Professional Kilted Guide
  • Air Conditioned Vehicles - Land Rover or Minibus
  • Pick-up & Drop-off from your accommodation if in Inverness or en route
  • Private Transportation
Exclusions
  • Lunch
  • Full Glen Ord Distillery Tour (time does not allow for this)
  • Cost of Glen Ord Distillery Tastings
  • Entrance fee to Urquhart Castle
Itinerary
  • Happy Tours
  • Loch Ness
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Robertson's - The Larder & Highland Cows - Beauly
  • The Singleton Distillery
  • Beauly
  • Culloden Battlefield
  • Clava Cairns
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Minimum age is 6 years, Children (ages 6 to 17) must be accompanied by an adult, Operates in all weather conditions so dress appropriately, Booster seats are available on request, A maximum of 8 people per booking, This tour is not available to people who are on a cruise ship in the Port of Invergordon. This is because the meeting point for this tour is 25 miles from the ship and we can't guarantee at the end of the tour you would be back on time for your ship to sail.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness

Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness

12 hrsFree cancellationLikely to sell out
4.74 (1,811 reviews)
Viator
$272
Book now
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Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness
Summary

Enjoy a full-day of stunning scenery and fresh Highland air, as we travel all the way around Loch Ness and along the idyllic West Coast. Our journey reveals ancient ruins, a poignant war memorial, beautiful beaches and gorgeous Scottish wilderness – with untamed mountains never far from sight. Embar...

Inclusions
  • Local English Speaking Guide
  • Jacobite Steam Train one-way ticket (Fort William to Mallaig)
  • Please note that the itinerary will be reversed on dates when the tour starts at 9:30am.
Exclusions
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Itinerary
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Commando Monument
  • Fort William
  • Mallaig
  • Fort Augustus
  • Suidhe Viewpoint
  • Dores
Good to know
  • Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice, outwith our control, It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals., Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities., From 1st April 2025 the 7:30 am tour will return at 7:30 pm., It is not possible to upgrade your Standard steam train ticket to a First Class ticket, Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5., If downloading an audio guide, remember to bring your headset., The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures., The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise

Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise

2 hrs
4.71 (2,224 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$40
Book now
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Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise
Summary

Depart from Dochgarroch Lock, sit back, relax, and sail through the Caledonian Canal. Cruise into Loch Ness as far as Urquhart Castle and back.

From Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle

From Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle

3.5 hrs
4.67 (2,475 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$76
Book now
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From Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle
Summary

Visit Urquhart Castle and sail through the open waters of the legendary Loch Ness on a trip from Inverness. Enjoy a guided coach tour before exploring the stories of the Loch Ness Monster on a cruise.

Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise, Castle, and Outlander Tour

Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise, Castle, and Outlander Tour

9 hrs
4.74 (798 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$71
Book now
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Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise, Castle, and Outlander Tour
Summary

See legendary Loch Ness on a scenic cruise and stop off to explore the ruined Urquhart Castle. Enjoy lunch in Beauly and learn the true stories that inspired Outlander at Culloden and Clava Cairns.

From Inverness: Loch Ness and the Highlands Day Trip

From Inverness: Loch Ness and the Highlands Day Trip

9 hrs
4.77 (732 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$74
Book now
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From Inverness: Loch Ness and the Highlands Day Trip
Summary

Spend a day hunting for Nessie, cruising on Loch Ness, and exploring the village of Fort Augustus on this trip from Inverness. Visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, Foyers falls, and Dores Beach.

From Inverness: Isle of Skye Scenery Tour with Fairy Pools

From Inverness: Isle of Skye Scenery Tour with Fairy Pools

12 hrs
4.82 (472 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$147
Book now
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From Inverness: Isle of Skye Scenery Tour with Fairy Pools
Summary

Discover the scenic landmarks of the Isle of Skye including the Fairy Pools, Portree, and the Old Man of Storr. Stop for some photos of Eilean Donan Castle and Urquhart Castle or Loch Ness on the way.

...

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine).

Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition
Learn more

Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition

2.6 km away • from $797

Loch Ness
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Loch Ness

2.7 km away • from $13

River Ness (Abhainn Nis)
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River Ness (Abhainn Nis)

19 km away • from $9.99

Inverness Botanic Gardens (Floral Hall)
Learn more

Inverness Botanic Gardens (Floral Hall)

20 km away • from $851

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Based on the data we compare, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The landmark holds an exceptional average rating of 4.89★ from a combined total of 19,845 reviews across booking platforms. Travelers frequently describe their experiences as amazing, excellent, and highly recommend the site, often noting the knowledgeable guides.

There is a significant variety of ways to experience the site. Among the 88 tours and tickets we compare, 60% are private tours, which may suit those looking for a more tailored experience. Most of these options are full-day excursions, with durations typically lasting between 6–12 hours.

Prices vary depending on the level of exclusivity and duration. Across the various booking platforms, the typical price spread for these experiences is between $73–$1,226, with many options falling in the $163–$953 range.

We recommend booking ahead if you have a specific date in mind. About 11% of the options listed are flagged as likely to sell out, so securing your spot early can help ensure availability.

Flexibility is common among the options we compare. Roughly 74% of the tours offer free cancellation, providing peace of mind if your travel plans change.

Yes, there is good linguistic variety. The tours we compare are offered in 7 languages: English, Portuguese, German, Spanish, French, Italian, and Chinese.

If you are looking for immediate peace of mind, 77% of the options across booking platforms offer instant confirmation.

You can take the Stagecoach bus service or rent a car. Driving is better for exploring nearby Loch Ness sites.

Options are limited in winter. Many local pubs and cafes close for seasonal breaks, so check opening times in advance.

Visit Urquhart Castle for views. You can also take a boat tour from the local pier to see the loch from the water.

Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition2.6kmLoch Ness2.7kmRiver Ness (Abhainn Nis)19kmCaledonian Canal19.7kmTomnahurich (Fairy Hill)20kmEden Court Theatre and Cinema20.9kmInverness Cathedral (St. Andrew's Cathedral)21.1kmInverness Castle21.3kmOld High Church (Old High St. Stephen’s)21.5kmGlen Ord Distillery22.1kmMerkinch Local Nature Reserve22.3km
Loch Ness Tour - InvernessIsle of Skye Tour - InvernessInverness City Walking TourSpeyside Whisky Tour - InvernessTop Of The Highlands TourCulloden Battlefield TourOutlander Tour - InvernessLoch Ness CruiseDunrobin Castle Tour - InvernessHighland Whisky Tour - InvernessInverness Highlands Bucket List TourIsle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Tour