How to plan a private Scotland and Ireland tour
A practical planning checklist for a private Scotland and Ireland tour: timing, pace, driving, hotels and what to decide first.
Updated · 6 minute read
A two-country trip has more moving parts than a single-country one. This is the order we suggest thinking about them.
1. Choose the places that matter most
Start with three or four places you would be disappointed to miss. Build around those rather than trying to see everything. Our trip builder lets you choose them on a map.
2. Decide on time of year
May, June and September are our favourite months: long days, gardens and castles open, and fewer crowds than July and August. The best small hotels in Skye and along the Causeway Coast book early for the summer months.
3. Count bases, not days
Changing hotel every night is tiring. Two nights in most places makes the trip feel like a holiday rather than a tour.
4. Decide how you want to travel
With a private driver-guide you never navigate, never drive on the left, and everyone can enjoy a whisky tasting. In 2027 our own Scottish guides travel with you into Ireland, so the same person looks after you throughout.
5. Book flights last, but plan them first
Agree your route before booking flights. For most North American guests, arriving in Edinburgh and leaving from Dublin works best.
