Scotland Tour: Faith, Courage and the Legacy of Christianity
Journey to the majestic landscapes, cultural treasures and Presbyterian heritage of Scotland. Walk in the footsteps of faith, courage, and conviction that shaped Christian history. This inspiring spiritual journey invites you to trace the legacy of the Scottish Reformation through the life and ministry of John Knox, whose unwavering devotion to Scripture helped establish the Presbyterian Church and transform a nation.
Stand where it all happened! Visit the holy Isle of Iona, revered as Scotland’s cradle of Christianity, where generations have sought God’s presence amid windswept shores and peaceful abbeys. Visit the ancient town of St. Andrews- the birthplace of Presbyterian theology and the grandeur of Glamis Castle- the center of the Reformation in Scotland. Feel the enduring spirit of Scottish literature through the beloved poetry and legacy of Robert Burns, and the timeless charm of the Jacobite Steam Train winding through the pastoral countryside of the Scottish Highlands. This custom-designed journey offers a rich tapestry of Scottish heritage, inspiration and discovery.
QUESTIONS? Contact 1.844.777.1517 or email info@luthertours.com
St. Giles Cathedral, Scotland
ITINERARY
Meals: B-Breakfast, D-Dinner
Day 1 – Depart U.S.A. for Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 2 – Arrive in Edinburgh, Welcome to Scotland (D)
Upon arrival the group will be met at the airport by our professional tour manager who will accompany the group throughout the journey. Your tour manager will lead the group to our private motor coach to begin your journey. Enjoy a panoramic orientation drive, New Town, Old Town, Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill before arriving to the hotel for check in. This evening our group will meet for our welcome to Scotland dinner. Overnight Edinburgh
Day 3 – Edinburgh Reformation and John Knox (B)
After breakfast, your tour manager will lead the group on a full day exploring the city’s Presbyterian and Reformation roots. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, tracing the streets where faith, culture, and intellect have intertwined for centuries. As you walk, consider how the city itself reflects the enduring human search for meaning, justice, and God’s presence in daily life.
Together we will visit the John Knox House – the Reformer’s home and a cornerstone of Presbyterian identity. Also visit Magdalens Chapel, known to be where the first General Assembly of the Church of Scotland met in 1560 during the Reformation, and completing our walk with a visit to St. Giles Cathedral – Center of Reformation Faith. Step inside St. Giles Cathedral, a 16th-century landmark known as the heart of the Scottish Reformation and the parish church of John Knox. Pause to reflect on the courage of those who sought to reform the Church, standing firm in their convictions for the sake of faith. This evening is on your own to enjoy dinner at the hotel or one of the local restaurants or pubs. Your tour manger will provide suggestions for your dining experience. Overnight Edinburgh
Option to visit Writer’s Museum at leisure, free entry open 10a-5p. Explore the lives of Scotland’s great literary figures—Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Consider how poetry and storytelling can illuminate the human soul and reveal glimpses of divine beauty. Gather as a group to explore the spiritual conflicts and poetic imagination of Edinburgh during the Enlightenment. Reflect on how faith, reason, and creativity can interact, challenge, and enrich one in the life of a city and soul of its people.
Day 4 – St. Andrews, Glamis Castle (B)
Today we travel north to St. Andrews, birthplace of Presbyterian theology and academic life. Your will visit St. Andrews Cathedral important religious site of the transformational Reformation era. And visit to St. Andrews Castle including the Bottle Dungeon and martyrdom sites of George Wishart and Patrick Hamilton, the first Protestant martyr in Scotland. Remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy lunch on your own, relax, or stroll along West Sands Beach, made famous in Chariots of Fire.
This afternoon the group will transfer to the hotel in nearby Dundee. Its regenerated waterfront has 2 nautical museums: RRS Discovery, Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition ship, and 19th-century warship, HM Frigate Unicorn. North of the water, Verdant Works is a museum celebrating the city’s jute-manufacturing heritage. The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum displays art and archaeological finds.
Come along with your tour manager for an excursion to visit nearby Glamis Castle or choose leisure time to explore Dundee on your own.
Glamis Castle, situated in the fertile valley of Strathmore is famed as being the childhood home of the Queen Mother and the setting for Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. Reputed to be the most haunted castle in Scotland and steeped in legend and folklore, Glamis Castle is certainly a most beautiful and well-preserved castle with an impressive mile long drive and some stunning gardens and walks. Dinner is on your own. Overnight Dundee
Day 5 – Perth, Scone Palace (B, D)
We continue our journey to Perth, known as “The Fair City,” was deeply shaped by the early Reformers. Together our group will visit St. John’s Kirk – is Perth’s oldest surviving building and location where John Knox delivered his revolutionary 1559 sermon- a witness to pivotal moments, including the Scottish Reformation. Next, we visit Scone Palace, tied to the Stone of Destiny and coronations of Scottish kings. We continue on to Inverness (2.0hr.) This evening our group will meet for dinner. Overnight Inverness
Day 6 – Loch Ness, Kilt Maker (B)
This morning, we continue our journey with a scenic drive through the Highlands to Loch Ness. Here we enjoy a relaxing cruise on Loch Ness and visit Urquhart Castle ruins, once a stronghold of both Catholic and Protestant nobility. 2-hour Loch Ness Cruise experience with on board commentary, including an hour visit to Urquhart Castle. Our day will end with a visit to a traditional kilt maker, where the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the Scottish kilt are beautifully revealed. Overnight Inverness
Day 7 – Ft. William, Oban (B, D)
This morning, we travel south through the mountains to Ft. William and a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train also known as the "Hogwarts Express,". This train travels through stunning landscapes, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Ft. William lies in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britian’s highest mountain! 10AM-4PM round trip ride with stop in Mallaig for lunch and sightseeing.For schedule and journey details visit https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/steam-train-trip
Drive to Oban where we stay for the next 2-nights. After check-in at the hotel our group will meet for dinner. Overnight in Oban
Day 8 – Sacred Iona, “Scotland’s Cradle of Christianity” (B)
Today we learn more about early Celtic Christian history of Iona, where St. Columba founded a Christian community in 563 AD. Enjoy a drive along the scenic route through the beautiful and dramatic Isle of Mull -local guide will provide commentary about Inner Hebrides wildlife, history, geology of Staffa, Treshnish and Mull, then visit to the Isle of Iona to see the famous abbey, and completing the journey - an awe-inspiring visit to the unique volcanic Isle of Staffa to see Fingal's Cave.
The island of Iona is only 3 miles from north to south and 1½ miles from east to west and is steeped in history, and the cradle of Scottish Christianity. This is a very special island and often referred to as a ‘thin place’ where heaven and earth seem to touch. Iona’s religious significance, married with its immense natural beauty, makes it a place of revelation where a sunset-inspired epiphany is just around the corner. It’s a feeling that’s imbued in every brick of its old buildings; an atmosphere rooted in its soil. The thin veil between the physical and the spiritual becomes thinner still on this historical Isle. The tradition of worship at the Abbey continues through daily services and teaching.
Tour Iona Abbey and view St. Martin’s Cross. It is thought to be the final resting place of 48 medieval kings of Norway, Ireland, and Scotland, including the eleventh-century King Macbeth of Shakespearean fame. Afterwards, our group will return to Oban for the night. Dinner on own. Overnight Oban
Day 9 – Glasgow (B)
This morning, we leave Oban and travel south toward Ayr enjoying a scenic drive through the Highlands and a visit in Glasgow. Our route through the historic region of Glencoe, before continuing along the shores of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s most well-known lochs. We arrive in Glasgow late morning, where a panoramic coach tour will introduce key areas, including the city centre and some of its notable architecture. There will be time to enjoy and explore the city. Dinner on own. Overnight Glasgow
Day 10 – Ayr, Robert Burns (B, D)
This morning, we explore the town of Ayr to learn more about Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poetandexplore his faith themes and love of Scottish identity. We begin our day with a private guided tour of the city and attend worship service at a local Presbyterian-affiliated church (based on day of visit and availability) or gather for fellowship with members of the local church community.
This afternoon we visit the Burns Cottage, the birthplace of Robert Burns, where the poet’s life and early surroundings invite reflection on humility, human longing, and the creative spirit. Next, we visit the Burns Museum, exploring prized artifacts such as an original manuscript of Auld Lang Syne, letters, and personal notes that reveal his inner struggles, moral questioning, and spiritual awareness. Continuing on to visit the Brig o’ Doon, immortalized in Burns’ poetry. Pause to reflect on the enduring human search for love, justice, and virtue, and how the landscape itself inspires contemplation of God’s beauty and truth. Our group explores Burns’ spiritual wrestling, his moral vision, and humanist perspective. Consider how Burns bridges folk spirituality and modern moral questioning, offering insights into faith, conscience, and the poetic imagination. This evening the group meets for our farewell dinner before continuing on to Edinburgh for the night. Overnight Edinburgh Hotel
Day 11 – Tour Ends. Depart Scotland (B)
Today our group will transfer to the Edinburgh Airport for departure flights. Returning home with gratitude for the journey and for the Reformed heritage that shapes Presbyterian faith today.
Itinerary subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control.
Isle of Iona, Scotland
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date and ETA U.K. Authorization.
Non-US passport holders contact LT for credentials required to travel.Additional credentials to travel advised as details are received for your departure. Travelers will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK.
Tour Level: Moderate Active Traveler, Walking Sightseeing Tour
This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect to spend two to three hours on your feet during each guided tour where you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, and slopes. The pace is moderate. Most sightseeing is experienced during the daily guided walking tours and many of the historic sites you will visit date back hundreds to thousands of years. Walking may be on uneven surfaces, cobble-stones or pebbly stone pathways, and may not provide elevators and ramps for physically challenged travelers. If you or you will be traveling with someone who has difficulty walking, special needs -use a wheelchair, cane, walker, hearing or visually impaired please contact LutherTours.
TOUR INCLUDES
Professional Tour Guide to accompany the group throughout the journey. Our tour guides and local destination specialist are experts- sharing the nuances of the unique environments and making history come to life. Their extensive knowledge in Christian, cultural and literary history, will ensure you have an exceptional journey of discovery and enlightenment.
Private Deluxe air-conditioned Motor Coach to transport you in comfort throughout the journey
9- Night Accommodations located city center
Hotel Taxes
Breakfast Daily, 4- Dinners, Gratuities for included meals
Visit Iona Island- pilgrimage site & birthplace of Christianity in Scotland
Visit St. Andrew’s, birthplace of Presbyterian theology
Prayer and Worship in sacred places
Private Guided Museum, Cathedral, and Site visits
Medieval Castle visits
Jacobite Steam Train also known as the "Hogwarts Express"
Visit sites of Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet
Admission as indicated in itinerary
Group airport transfers in Edinburgh with purchase of group flights
St. Andrews, Scotland
TOUR PRICE is Per Person Based on Double Occupancy
$3,950 with 30+ travelers
$4,150 with 25+ travelers
$4,450 with 20+ travelers
Single Occupancy Add $990
Tour prices subject to currency fluctuation.
GROUP AIRFARE is additional to the tour price and requires a minimum of 10 travelers on the same flights.
Group flight arrangements to be advised 11-months prior to travel dates.
Group Airfare includes group airport transfers in Scotland, 1 checked bag, 1-carry-on bag, 1-personal item, and a preassigned seat
OPTIONAL Airport Transfers in U.K. for those not purchasing group flight arrangements.
Purchase round-trip group airport transfers at $60 per person for transfers on the coach with the group, upon arrival and departure of the group flights in Scotland.
PAYMENT
Deposit $350 per person (nonrefundable) along with a completed tour registration form
Balance due 75-Days Prior to Departure (a reminder will be sent)
NOT INCLUDED
Gratuities for your Professional Tour Guide, Coach Driver, Housekeeping staff, and Local Guides.
Passport application fee, and a United Kingdom E.T.A. Visa processed online. Additional fees for non-US passport holders check with LT for requirements. Meals not listed, personal items such as internet charges, telephone calls, laundry during trip, trip insurance, expenses due to new travel regulations and requirements, additional expenses not specifically list above under tour includes.
Robert Burns Cottage
Penalties up to 100% apply. Please be aware of the LutherTours complete Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel and Cancellation policy, a copy is included with each individual tour confirmation, available by contacting our office directly 1.844.777.1517 or online at www.LUTHERTOURS.com and click Terms & Conditions to view details. Itinerary subject to change. Prices subject to currency fluctuation.
All travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date. E.T.A. required in advance of departure for U.K. entry authorization. Non-US passport holders contact LT for additional credentials required to travel. E.T.I.A.S. European electronic visa may be required. Details to be advised as updated information is received.
Requirements may change, continue to check travel requirements up to the day of departure.
LT and its travel partners reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary. Prices subject to currency fluctuation. Itinerary subject to change.
Cancellations regardless of the reason are costly. Are you prepared?
Cancellation, Interruption, Medical and Baggage Insurance is available with many companies to help with unexpected delays, interruptions and cancellations.
Visit USI Vacation Insure to learn more about the benefits, restrictions, price and coverage.
Foreign governments in any country may implement restrictions with little notice. Any cost related to required travel regulations is the responsibility of the traveler.
U.S. DEPARTMENT of STATE TRAVEL ADVISORY and ALERTS
Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for the most recent travel alerts and to enroll in S.T.E.P Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive travel alerts and register to ensure you can be located in an emergency.
Tour Registration
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