4 Islay Whisky Tours, Compared

1.4 Day Islay Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 148 reviews · 4 days (approx.) · from $1,520Our pick

Travel from Edinburgh to Islay in a small group of no more than 16, with a driver-guide, ferry crossings and three nights’ accommodation arranged. Visit distilleries including Lagavulin, Laphroaig and Ardbeg, with tastings and tours built into the schedule. Guides named by past participants include Moray, Jamie, Stefan and Murray, though your guide may differ.

“Our 4-day Islay distillery tour exceeded all expectations from start to finish. Our group of 16 never felt crowded – whether we were traveling in the mini bus or enjoying the intimate tastings at each distillery. The well-thought-out itinerary struck the perfect balance between structured visits and flexibility, and Stefan, our guide, was absolutely outstanding – not only was he incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, but his genuine enthusiasm and local expertise led us to some fantastic bonus stops that weren't part of the original plan. The entire trip ran seamlessly without a single hiccup, from the great B&B accommodation that served as our comfortable home base to the excellent coordinat...”

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2.4-Day Islay & Whisky Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 81 reviews · 4 days (approx.) · from $1,351

Ride a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach from Edinburgh to Islay with a driver-guide, ferry crossings and visits to up to six distilleries. Tastings and tours are included at Bowmore, Kilchoman, Ardbeg and Laphroaig, with other admissions sometimes extra. You stay on Islay for three nights, often at Bowmore Distillery Cottages.

“My husband, daughter and I had a wonderful time on this tour which, though booked through Viator, is a Rabbie's tour. Along with visiting 6 distilleries on Islay, the tour includes numerous stops along the way at beautiful lochs, small churches, historic sites and small villages and towns. Our tour guide, Daniel, was excellent - filling the driving time with history about Scotland, fun facts and stories, and music related to what we were seeing. The Bowmore Cottages were perfect and well appointed, and the small town of Bowmore was a lovely base from which to see Islay. We enjoyed getting to know the rest of our small group -…”

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3.Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 55 reviews · 4 days · from $1,205Best value

Travel from Edinburgh to Islay by Mercedes mini coach and ferry, with a driver-guide, three nights in en-suite accommodation and visits to several distilleries. Expect Bowmore, Kilchoman, Ardbeg and Laphroaig, plus ancient stones, ruined churches, beaches and coastal views. Visits can vary by day, and your guide may be Al, Stevie, Mac or another member of Rabbie’s team.

“Adam and Grant were excellent guides, knowledgeable and funny. The tour included a great deal of the history and process behind a stellar selection of whiskys. The tourbus was comfortable, and any long drives were broken up by stops at historical sites and great restaurants. Would absolutely recommend and may do it again myself!”

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4.5 Day Islay Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 16 reviews · 5 days (approx.) · from $1,901

Ride from Edinburgh to Islay with a driver-guide, stopping at Oban Distillery before four days of island visits. You’ll tour or taste at nine Islay distilleries, including Lagavulin, Ardbeg and Laphroaig, and stay four nights at Bowmore House or Island Bear. Guides have included Moray, Jamie and John S.

“Absolutely amazing. The (whisky-related) trip of a lifetime. The accommodations at Bowmore House were lovely, as were the hosts. Each distillery had something unique and special to offer, and they were all wonderful. But the trip wouldn't have been possible without our amazing guide, Morey. His snarky banter, whisky and historical knowledge, and relationship with each distillery is what really made this trip perfect. Highly recommend.”

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