Scotland by train from Paris: from the capitals to the wild Highlands

Your adventure begins the moment you set off by train from France. After travelling to London on the Eurostar and then changing trains for Scotland, you’ll gradually find yourself amidst the landscapes of the British north. The total journey takes around nine hours, depending on connections, but it’s already part of the experience.

On arrival at Edinburgh Waverley station, right in the heart of the city, you’ll be met by your French-speaking guide. In just a few steps, you’ll find yourself immersed in the medieval atmosphere of the Scottish capital.

Depending on your arrival time, why not enjoy an initial stroll to explore the city (at your own pace, unguided): discover Princes Street Gardens, take in the spectacular view of the castle overlooking the city, then take your first steps along the Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare lined with medieval façades. This walk will help you get your bearings and immediately soak up the unique atmosphere of the Scottish capital.

In the evening, a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant will introduce you to local flavours and Scottish hospitality.

Lunch at your leisure.
Dinner included.

Overnight in Edinburgh

This morning, you’ll set off to explore the Scottish capital on a guided walking tour. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll delve into Edinburgh’s fascinating history, exploring medieval alleyways, elegant Georgian squares and tales of kings, clans and famous figures.

You’ll explore the iconic neighbourhoods of the Old Town, discover the major events that have shaped the city, and understand why Edinburgh is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The perfect introduction to capturing the spirit of the city, through its history, architecture and local anecdotes.

In the afternoon, as an optional extra, discover the Leith neighbourhood on a guided tour: Edinburgh’s former port, which has become one of the most
One of the capital’s most creative and vibrant neighbourhoods, Leith charms visitors with its atmosphere that is both authentic and decidedly trendy. As you stroll along the Shore, you’ll discover pretty, colourful houses, peaceful quays, hidden-gem galleries and a remarkable culinary scene, featuring several renowned and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The neighbourhood is also home to the legendary Royal Yacht Britannia, the Royal Family’s former floating residence, which is now open to visitors. Leith is a place where you can take the time to stroll, enjoy a coffee by the water’s edge, pop into a historic pub or admire the sunset over the harbour — a timeless escape, far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Lunch at your leisure.
Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight in Edinburgh

The journey to Glasgow takes about fifty minutes, with frequent trains running throughout the day. Seated in comfort, you’ll travel through the Scottish countryside before arriving at Glasgow Queen Street station.

On arrival, an optional guided walking tour is available. You’ll explore the medieval cathedral and the necropolis, George Square and the elegant Victorian façades, as well as the West End district and the University of Glasgow.
A visit to Kelvingrove Museum, which is free (self-guided), can round off this tour.

Lunch at your leisure.
Dinner at your leisure.

A night in Glasgow

The journey from Glasgow to Oban, which takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes, is one of the highlights of the trip. The West Highland Line
is regularly ranked among the world’s most beautiful railway lines.

As it leaves Glasgow, the train first runs alongside the shores of Loch Lomond, whose waters glisten between wooded hills and the foothills of the mountains. Gradually, the landscape becomes wilder. You cross Rannoch Moor, a vast, remote expanse of peat bogs, lochs and endless moorland. The sense of space and solitude is striking.

The rolling hills of the Highlands come into view on the horizon, sometimes shrouded in mist. This journey offers a continuous natural spectacle, visible through large windows. It is not just a transfer, but a genuine scenic tour included in the itinerary.

When you arrive in Oban, enjoy a stroll around the harbour and through the town. The more adventurous can climb up to McCaig’s Tower to take in the view of the bay.

A visit to a local distillery, to discover the art of Scotch whisky-making, is available as an optional extra.

Lunch at your leisure.
Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Oban

This morning, you’ll leave Oban by ferry to travel to the Isle of Mull. The crossing, which takes around 45 minutes, gives you the chance to admire the rugged coastline of the Highlands and, with a bit of luck, spot some seals or seabirds.

On arrival in Craignure, you’ll cross the Isle of Mull from east to west by local transport. The road winds its way through rolling countryside, dotted with sparkling lochs, wild moors and small, isolated farms. This journey, which takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, is in itself an immersion into a more intimate and unspoilt side of Scotland.

From Fionnphort, a short ten-minute boat crossing takes you to the island of Iona, which is included in your itinerary. As soon as you arrive, the atmosphere changes: here, everything invites you to relax and reflect.

You’ll discover Iona Abbey, a spiritual centre founded in the 6th century and regarded as one of the cradles of Christianity in Scotland. The tour allows you to explore the abbey church, the cloister and the small museum tracing the island’s monastic history.
You’ll have some free time to stroll along the shore, enjoy the tranquillity and the unique light of the Inner Hebrides, before taking the crossing to Mull and then the return ferry to Oban in the late afternoon.

For those who wish, an optional afternoon excursion to the island of Staffa is available. This boat trip takes you to the famous Fingal’s Cave, an impressive basalt formation featuring natural geometric columns. The sight of the sea crashing against the volcanic rock faces is breathtaking. Depending on sea conditions, it is sometimes possible to disembark briefly on the island to view the rock formations and, in season, the puffins.

Lunch is at your own expense during the tour.
Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Oban

The journey between Oban and Fort William takes around 3 hours 30 minutes and is another spectacular stretch of the West Highland Line. The train winds its way between the sea and the mountains, running alongside Loch Eil and offering unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks. The ever-changing light of the Highlands constantly transforms the landscape: silvery glints on the water, purplish moors and deep forests.

The afternoon has been deliberately left free so that everyone can enjoy this exceptional setting at their own pace.
There are several options available to you. Nature lovers can go for a walk in the Glen Nevis valley, where an accessible path takes you close to rivers and waterfalls amidst spectacular scenery. Those who prefer a more leisurely stroll can walk along the shores of Loch Linnhe and enjoy the changing light on the water, or take the Nevis Range cable car to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Lunch at your leisure.
Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Fort William

The journey from Fort William to Glasgow takes around three hours and forty-five minutes. You’ll have one last chance to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Highlands.

Depending on your connection times, you may have some free time in Glasgow. Your tour concludes with train journeys to London and then on to France.

Lunch at your leisure.