Undoubtedly the Best 1-Day Isle of Skye Tour for Backpackers in 2026
- Jay
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
While public buses can now get you onto the Isle of Skye for just £2, they won't really get you all the way around Skye. That's because the buses on the so-called 'Misty Isle' are really designed to connect the major towns and villages (you know, where people live and stuff), and not to the big-hitting tourist sites like the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools or the Quiraing.
You'd realistically need a rental car to get to those... until now! For guests staying at Skye Backpackers, you can now travel around the island every Saturday and Wednesday, being guided by a Scottish Storyteller in a group of backpackers aged 18-35, and on board a bus that will take you to the Island's hidden highlights.
But don't think this is a day sat on a bus staring out the window - this tour will get you out and about on hikes, having sips of whisky with new pals, and maybe even a dip in some mythical waters with healing powers.
Want to see the best of Skye in just one without being behind the wheel? Book your stay at Skye Backpackers through Scotland's Top Hostels today and you can hop on the tour for just £65, simply pay at reception the day before. Beds at Skye Backpackers start from just £27.50 this summer, and you'll always get the price through the link below:
The Ultimate 1-Day Isle of Skye Itinerary & Highlights
The best part of this One Day Tour is that the itinerary isn't fully fixed (and certainly isn't strict!). Your Tour Guides will want to hit up some of the big unmissable sights that you'll hear all about the minute you arrive in Scotland, including:
Sligachan - home to mythical waters that may/may not reverse ageing.
The Cuillin - stunning mountain range down the spine of the Island.
Portree - the 'capital' of Skye, with a picturesque harbour and great places to stop for coffee or lunch.
The Old Man of Storr - an iconic and accessible hiking route with stunning views.
Kilt Rock - may/may not resemble Scotland's most famous garment, with stories to be told.
The Quiraing - rocky peaks where Vikings once hid their cattle.
But in the morning you'll get a vibe check from your guide who will find out what people want to fill their day with - all weather dependent of course, because it isn't a party in Scotland if the rain isn't invited along too 🌧️
Find out more about the itinerary here (the 1 day tour sees you hop on an existing 3 day tour, meaning you'll meet plenty of fellow backpackers & solo travellers!):
The Best Tour Guides for the Isle of Skye? Meet Macbackpackers' Scottish Storytellers
A tour guide often makes a trip memorable and special - and there's none that's more true for than the Macbackpackers team. Our tour guides are professional Scottish Storytellers (and professional tour bus drivers, too, no need to worry). They're a small team who work super hard to make sure you love your time in Scotland.
Whether it's Neil regaling you with some of Scotland's most fascinating tales, Mark dropping a well-timed pun, or Stewart offering a deep-dive into some of Scotland's more obscure history, Macbackpackers guides are some of the most friendly, knowledgeable, and (they like to think), funny tour guides in the business.
Below, you can meet some of the people who will be helping you create the incredible memories of your ultimate Scottish adventure!
Departure Times & Booking From Skye Backpackers Hostel
It's as simple as arriving at Skye Backpackers and making sure you give a day's notice that you'll want to join the tour either on Wednesday Morning or Saturday Morning. The bus arrives from Loch Ness departing around 8am, so you can expect to be on the bus for your tour around 10 in the morning.
Book your stay at Skye Backpackers through Scotland's Top Hostels to get the best price and availability:
Frequently Asked Questions about Macbackpackers One Day Isle of Skye Tour
Do I need to be a guest at Skye Backpackers to book this day tour?
Ideally, yes, as the tour departs right from the hostel door. If you're staying nearby and can be in the village centre of Kyleakin by 10am, then you'd also be welcome to reach out to the hostel to try and book on for the tour.
Are hiking boots required for the Old Man of Storr and Quiraing stops?
No, but you'll want solid footwear throughout the day as the tour involves multiple outdoor stops.
Is lunch provided on the tour, or should I bring my own food?
You should bring your own food, or be prepared to purchase lunch either in the stops at Broadford or Portree.
What happens to the tour itinerary if it rains heavily on Skye?
Once a year or so, Skye will get a complete wash-out! But it isn't a party in Scotland if the rain isn't invited, so be prepared with waterproof wear, and we'll head out to a range of suitable stops.
Can I bring my main luggage on the day trip coach?
No, you'll need to store your luggage at Skye Backpackers. Guests at the hostel can do so for free during the tour if they've checked out that morning.
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