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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

From fairy-tale castles to charming small towns, the Scottish countryside is every bit as spectacular as you've heard.

Best Times to Go to Scotland

Best things to do in scotland.

• Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Where to Stay in Scotland

With its stately castles , glass-like lochs, and voluptuous glens, Scotland has always been a showstopper. The country's magic extends from its quaint small towns to the snow-capped peaks of its romantic, rugged Highlands to its dynamic modern cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It's home to some of the best national parks in the U.K. and more than 900 offshore islands with extraordinary wildlife like regal red stags, majestic golden eagles, humpback whales, and massive salmon (not to mention the fabled inhabitant of Loch Ness, too).

The raw, poetic beauty of this ancient land — formerly known as Caledonia — is difficult to overstate. If you're hoping to head to the U.K.'s ravishing northern nation, read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scotland vacation.

The bad news is that, like the rest of the U.K., Scotland's weather is far from reliable, even at the height of summer. But as long as you're prepared to accept that and pack a raincoat for the odd shower or two, then you'll be fine from May to September. The smart money is on visiting in June and the first two weeks of July, when Scotland basks in seemingly endless summer evenings (the sun doesn't set until 11 p.m. in some parts of the Highlands) and the British school holidays have not yet begun, so prices remain low.

For winter travelers, Scotland has the U.K.'s best ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain , while the capital, Edinburgh, hosts one of the world's biggest New Year's Eve parties, Hogmanay .

If you like the great outdoors, you'll love Scotland. It's an ideal place for hiking, biking, and generally embracing the wildly beautiful landscape. You can summit magnificent Ben Nevis in a day (the tallest mountain in the U.K., at 4,413 feet), take a ferry out to explore the Hebrides archipelago and its stunning white-sand beaches, tour scores of castles, including the Queen's favorite holiday home, Balmoral (open to the public every April through July), and dive into a quirky food scene encompassing dishes like haggis (an offal and oatmeal combo, which tastes significantly better than it sounds), deep-fried mars bars, and juicy scallops, langoustines, and mussels.

Scotland is also a mecca for both golfers ( St. Andrews Old Course is the headline act) and whisky lovers , with some of the world's best distilleries available to tour, including Johnnie Walker on Edinburgh's lively Princes Street, Glenlivet near pretty Ballindalloch, and the legendary Macallan on a sprawling country estate in nearby Aberlour.

8 Best Small Towns in Scotland — From Bucolic Islands to the Rugged Highlands

If you enjoy driving, you'll find some of the U.K.'s emptiest, most dramatic roads here, too, (as driven by James Bond in "Skyfall"), including the latest official addition, the North Coast 500 , an action-packed 500-mile route (516 to be exact) featuring mind-boggling coastal scenery, jaw-dropping beaches, rolling hillside, quaint fishing villages, and multiple hidden gems.

And if you prefer your challenges on foot, check out the magnificent West Highland Way , the country's best-loved long-distance walking route. Snaking its way from Milngavie to Fort William, it covers some of Scotland's finest scenery over 96 miles and is normally completed from south to north.

Meanwhile, history buffs will also be agog on any visit to Scotland, thanks to its 3,000-plus castles ( Castle Sween in Argyll is the oldest, dating back to the 1100s), as well as plenty to check out in the winding wynds (narrow lanes) and twisted staircases of Edinburgh's enchanting Old Town. ( Edinburgh Castle , towering over the city, is arguably the grandest in the country, too.)

If you can, make time to visit Perth, the former Scottish capital where kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny and infamous Glen Coe, a beautiful valley full of waterfalls and deer, also known for the brutal clan massacre of 1692 (which inspired the Red Wedding in George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones ).

Where are the Scottish Highlands — and what is the best way to get there?

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

The clue is in its name: the Highlands are the mountainous upper half of Scotland, covering 10,000 square miles of picturesque scenery. The region's lively capital is Inverness , which sits centrally and is a superb base from which to explore, while other highlights include mysterious, misty Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park , and idyllic Isle of Skye , which has been connected to the mainland via a road bridge since 1995.

The easiest way to reach the Highlands is to fly into Inverness Airport from London or elsewhere in the U.K., or rent a car and drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, the way to arrive in style is on the Caledonian Sleeper train from London Euston, a chugging time machine where you can fall asleep to the sounds of black cabs and bustle of the British capital and wake up among the red deer and magical glens of the Highlands. Regularly nominated as one of the world's best train journeys , the scenery gets truly spectacular after Fort William, as the route skirts a dramatic chain of lochs before descending into lush glens and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films. For the ultimate Hogwarts experience, steam locomotives work this route during the summer months, so check in advance for these special departures.

The major cities have an abundance of hotels for every budget, headlined by Glasgow's Kimpton Blythswood Square , a boutique property in the former headquarters of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, and The Dunstane Houses in Edinburgh, a pair of beautifully renovated 19th-century townhouses.

Scotland arguably does traditional country house hotels and rustic lodges better than anywhere else in the world, with Fife Arms in Braemar and Gleneagles in Perthshire being particular treats (the latter, nicknamed the "Glorious Playground" boasts three championship golf courses, its own dedicated train station, and the only restaurant in the country with two Michelin stars).

Scotland is, of course, peppered with castles, and many have been converted into hotels and B&Bs in recent years, with some of the better fortified accommodation options including Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, Atholl Palace Hotel in Pitlochry, and Stonefield Castle Hotel on Loch Fyne.

Wherever you stay, you'll get a warm welcome — not to mention a hot bowl of Scottish porridge or a plate of bacon, eggs, and haggis to start the day in a spectacularly scenic country.

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 9 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 13, 2021 and updated Nov 19, 2023.

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Scotland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

Partially conquered by the Romans, Scotland is a land with a turbulent past. It was invaded countless times by the English during the Middle Ages before the Treaty of Union in 1707 united the continent (an unpopular move at the time). Since then, it’s been a part of the United Kingdom (though there is a growing movement for independence).

While Scotland may be a small country (only 5.4 million people call it home), it’s had a huge impact on the direction of the world. Economist Adam Smith, inventor of the telephone Alexander Graham Bell, novelist Robert Louis Stevenson (he wrote Treasure Island ), philosopher David Hume, ecologist John Muir — the list of famous Scots goes on.

I love visiting Scotland. The people, the jovial spirit, the landscape, the booze — Scotland never disappoints (ok, maybe a little with the food). It’s an incredible destination for road trips so make sure you get out of the cities and into the highlands with their rich jagged landscapes. And be sure to head west to the islands of Islay, Jura, and Mull.

This travel guide to Scotland can help you plan where to go, what to see, how to save money, and everything in between!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Scotland

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Top 5 things to see and do in scotland.

1. Explore the Scottish Highlands

Visit the highlands of Scotland for moody mountains, rugged terrain, glaciers, lochs, and kilt-clad Scotsmen. While the land may be harsh and unforgiving, you haven’t really seen Scotland until you’ve been here. Don’t miss Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park, Inverness, and the Isle of Skye.

2. Visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a glorious city filled with medieval cobblestone streets, lots of green space, free museums, a huge castle, and maybe even some ghosts. There’s a lot to do here so be sure to spend a few days. It’s an amazing place.

3. Celebrate Hogmanay

Hogmanay is one of the largest New Year’s celebrations in the world, attracting over 100,000 people for the two-day festival. The modern iteration has musical acts, a torchlight procession, multiple fireworks displays, and a large street party.

4. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay . It’s been made there since the 16th–century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in big distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and is famous around the world.

5. Visit Inverness

Besides the historic buildings in the Old Town, there is a great selection of places to eat and drink, Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and a Victorian Market. Plus, it is close to Loch Ness (it’s less than a 30-minute drive away), a bunch of distilleries, and a few golf courses.

Other Things to See and Do in Scotland

1. try to find nessie.

Loch Ness is one of the most famous lochs (lakes) in Scotland. It’s the alleged home to Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster, a creature said to live in the loch. The first “sightings” date back to the 1870s, though there is no definitive proof that any such creature exists. Nonetheless, the myth perseveres, making Loch Ness a popular destination to visit. While here, you can take a cruise, hike in the nearby hills, and enjoy some of the smaller nearby towns and villages like Dores or the nearby ruins of Urquhart Castle. The best way to get here is to travel to Inverness, from which Loch Ness is close enough to take a day trip to (it’s just a 25-minute drive from Inverness to Lochend, the top of Loch Ness).

2. Wander around Glasgow

Glasgow is a busy and bustling city, home to a youthful population (there is a university here) and a picturesque downtown. With plenty of parks, historical monuments, and museums, there is plenty to do here if you’re on a budget. It’s also a vegan and vegetarian hotspot too! Don’t miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, relaxing in Glasgow Green, seeing the cathedral, and day-tripping to the nearby Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

3. See the cathedrals

The cathedrals in Scotland are marvelous with their unique Gothic architecture and imposing heights. A few of the top cathedrals to visit are Dunfermline Abbey and Palace in Fife, St. Magnus Cathedral in the Orkney Islands, St Giles in Edinburgh, and Melrose Abbey in the Borders. Also, don’t miss the Glasgow Cathedral, which was built in 1136 and is the oldest building in Glasgow. Admission is free though donations are encouraged.

4. Puzzle over Rosslyn Chapel

This historic chapel near Edinburgh is ripe with intricate artwork and symbolism that has spawned many conspiracy theories (not to mention books). (Like why is there corn on the wall if corn wasn’t discovered until centuries later?). it was featured heavily in The Da Vinci Code and is located just an hour outside Edinburgh. Admission costs 9.5 GBP.

5. Play golf

The Scottish invented golf in the 15th century. If you’re not lucky enough to play a round at St. Andrews (the most famous course in the country) there are plenty of other immaculate and challenging courses to keep any golf player happy. Try to play during the low season (between November and March) if you want the lowest prices (St. Andrews, for example, costs 220 GBP to play in high season, versus 98 GBP in low season). Castle Stuart (Inverness), Royal Dornoch (Dornoch) , and Muirfield (Gullane) are some other great courses worth playing.

6. See the Cuillin

This dramatic mountain range dominates the Isle of Skye. There are two main ridges (the red and the black), which can be visited as a day trip or a longer two-day hike. Much of the mountain range, which stretches 14 kilometers (8.6 miles), can be hiked, though some peaks require more technical climbing skills. There are campgrounds and a hostel nearby in Glenbrittle as well. Some of the most popular trails are Rubh’ an Dùnain (3-5 hours, easy), Coire Lagan (2 hours, moderate), and Sgùrr Alasdair (6-8 hours, hard).

7. Visit Ruins of Melrose Abbey

Robert I (also known as Robert the Bruce) was the King of Scotland from 1306 until his death in 1329. Legend has it that his heart is buried in the ruins of Melrose Abbey. The abbey, founded in the 12th century and located in Melrose, was repeatedly destroyed by the English in the 14th century. You can still see marks on the surviving walls from cannonballs during the English Civil War. The abbey ruins (which is only a ruin of its former self, composed of several standing walls and arches) are decorated with intricate artwork carved into the remaining stone walls. Admission is 6 GBP.

8. Explore Dundee

Dundee is a lively student city along the coast with a lot of interesting museums. It’s a UNESCO City of Design and is the sunniest spot in the country too. Don’t miss a visit to Discovery Point to learn about the famous Antarctic expedition that launched from here in 1902 on the RSS Discovery (which you can board at the visitor center). Also, be sure to take in the great street art, the Vaults (a series of underground tunnels that date back to the 1750s), and The McManus Art Gallery as well.

9. Visit the Mystical Smoo Cave

The sleepy town of Durness, located 193 kilometers (120 miles) north of Inverness, is the access point for Smoo Cave , a coastline cave complex that can be explored independently or on a tour. Evidence from charcoal samples shows that it may have been inhabited over 4,000 years ago. The cave is free to enter but guided tours, which take you deeper into the cave, are 10 GBP. You get to see a lot more on the tour than you would if you just visit independently. Tours last around 20 minutes.

10. Head to the Isle of Arran

Located 2.5 hours west of Glasgow, this isle is a popular tourist destination for its charming scenery of jagged hills and rugged coasts, walking trails, and historic villages. Visit Brodick Castle, go for a hike, keep a lookout for seals and golden eagles, and enjoy the remote scenery. Don’t miss the Machrie Moor Stone Circles (which are sort of like Stonehenge) — they date back almost 5,000 years!

11. Explore the Cairngorms

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, spanning 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles). Located two hours from Edinburgh by car, it makes for a great getaway for anyone looking to get out and see the highlands. The park is dotted with beautiful B&Bs in historic stone buildings and there are several campgrounds available for anyone traveling in a camper van or with a tent. Wild camping is also permitted, providing you do so responsibly. The park offers lots of hiking trails too. Don’t miss Ryvoan Pass (easy), Dalraddy to Ruthven (moderate), and Ben Macdui (difficult). If you visit in the winter, you can also go skiing on Cairn Gorm Mountain. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the reindeer that call the park home (it’s the only herd in the British Isles). Admission to the park is free.

12. Attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival. It usually lasts three weeks and takes over the entire city of Edinburgh. There are tens of thousands of performances including plays, musicals, live music, puppet shows, and much more! There are literally thousands of different shows held and hundreds of venues around the city. It’s a massive festival and brings in upwards of 3 million visitors. It’s a zany, inspiring, and entertaining festival and one that shouldn’t be missed. Just make sure you book your tickets and accommodation in advance as things fill up fast.

13. Tour the Isle of Skye

This popular island off the northwestern tip of the country is a scenic place to take a road trip. The island offers sweeping views over the rugged coastline, hiking trails, castles, waterfalls, and quaint villages and B&Bs. While most people just visit for a day, I suggest spending a few days driving around and getting off the beaten path. You can visit by bus if you don’t have a car, however, having your own vehicle will give you much more freedom. Don’t miss Dunvegan Castle, the Old Man of Storr rock formation, and brother’s point.

  For more information on cities in Scotland, check out these guides:

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland Travel Costs

Accommodation – Most 6-8-bed dorms in Scotland cost 18-22 GBP per night, though prices rise a few pounds in the summer and drop a few in the winter (you can find hostels for as little as 12 GBP in the off-season). Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard, and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Private rooms in a hostel cost around 40-65 GBP per night.

Budget hotels cost around 55-75 GBP per night with standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers. Some include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in Scotland and is especially useful in the smaller towns and villages where there are fewer traditional hotels and hostels. A private room generally costs 25-30 GBP per night while entire homes/apartments start at 55 GBP per night, though most options are 70 GBP and above.

If you want to camp, expect to pay around 17 GBP per night for a basic plot (a small flat space for a tent without electricity). Most campgrounds close for the winter so availability is limited come late October/early November. If you’re in a car or campervan, you can use the app “park4night” to find paid overnight parking, free overnight parking, and campgrounds.

Food – Scottish food is hearty, heavy, and filling. Seafood is abundant, and popular traditional dishes include blood pudding, minced beef, fish and chips, smoked herring, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), and of course haggis (a dish composed of minced sheep’s organs and spices inside a sheep’s stomach casing). Porridge is a common breakfast choice, though a larger breakfast of sausage, eggs, beans, and bread is not uncommon either. Sticky toffee pudding is a favorite dessert, and of course, you can’t visit Scotland without sampling some scotch.

Expect to pay around 10-12 GBP for a basic meal (like a Scottish breakfast). For pub food like a burger or fish and chips, prices are usually between 12-20 GBP for a meal. For a full three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, prices begin around 27 GBP.

A pint of beer is around 4 GBP while a glass of wine is around 5.50 GBP. A latte or cappuccino is around 2.70 GBP.

If you’re looking for fast food (think McDonald’s), expect a combo meal to cost around 6 GBP. A classic fish and chips from a no-frills takeaway spot is around 6 GBP, while Chinese takeaway is around 8-10 GBP. Street food (like from a food truck) costs around 6-8 GBP. Eat near the universities for the cheapest food options.

A week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-60 GBP. This covers basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. The cheapest supermarkets to look out for are Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and Tesco.

Backpacking Scotland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Scotland for around 55 GBP per day. On this budget, you’re staying in a dorm room or camping, cooking all of your meals, using local transportation, sticking to mostly free activities (like hiking, museums, or free walking tours), and limiting your drinking.

On a mid-range budget of about 105 GBP, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at cheap local restaurants for a few meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting castles or doing a whisky tasting.

On a “luxury” budget of 210 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, take the train between cities or rent a car, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Scotland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Scotland is expensive, there are lots of ways to lower your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Scotland:

• Get the Edinburgh City Pass – If you’re planning to explore Edinburgh, get the City Pass. For 45 GBP, you get access to 22 attractions as well as free transportation to and from the airport. There is also a two-day pass for 55 GBP and a three-day pass for 65 GBP.
• Eat in a pub – The best food is often in the pubs at a fraction of the price compared to a proper restaurant. Also, pubs generally give you a true taste of Scottish culture. Scotland is pub-land – they’re everywhere.
• Eat during lunch – Many cafes, bakeries, and chains offer lunch deals for as little as 3-5 GBP.
• Visit the free museums – The public museums in Scotland are free so take advantage! Free museums include The National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
• Use buses – If you need to go anywhere, buses are by far the cheapest way to reach the widest range of places on a regular schedule. You can even find tickets for just 1 GBP from Megabus if you book far enough in advance.
• Avoid eating and shopping in the city centers – Both Glasgow and Edinburgh get significantly more expensive the closer you get to the city center. There are plenty of good restaurants and quirky shops outside of the center, so go for those. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
• Use apps to get food deals – On the app Too Good to Go, participating eateries sell severely discounted meals/groceries/baked goods at the end of the day. You just sign up, see what is being offered near you, and pick up your cheap food at the end of the day. It has good coverage all across Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh. For discounts on takeout try the app Secret Takeaways which supports local restaurants in Edinburgh and Glasgow by cutting out the delivery app middleman (and their high fees).
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation in Scotland. You’ll not only save some money but get access to a knowledgeable local who can help point you to some of the country’s hidden gems. It may not be fancy, but you’ll get a unique experience and learn far more about the destination than if you stayed in a hotel!
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to understand more about the history, architecture, and people of Scotland then be sure to take a free walking tour. They usually last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city. New Europe has a great free tour in Edinburgh and Visit Scotland offers one in Glasgow.
• Cook your own meals – Eating out in the UK isn’t cheap. Save yourself some money and cook a few meals for yourself. It may not be as fancy as eating out, but your wallet will thank you!
• Rent a campervan – If you’re planning to get out of the city, rent a camper van. You can get them for as little as 30 GBP per day. They come with basic self-catering facilities so you can cook your food and have somewhere cheap to stay. There are lots of free places to park around the country. Just use the app park4night to find them.
• Use BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing app you can use to travel in between cities. It’s faster than the bus and usually just as cheap. You have to find a ride, which can sometimes be hit or miss, but the profiles are verified and reviewed so it’s quite safe. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with other locals/travelers.
• Use discount websites – Groupon, Wowcher and Living Social have good deals on accommodation, attractions, and dining out.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland isn’t cheap, but there are nevertheless lots of great hostels to stay at to help you meet people and save money. Here are my favorite hostels in Scotland:

• Castle Rock (Edinburgh)
• Edinburgh Backpackers (Edinburgh)
• Kick Ass Grassmarket (Edinburgh)
• Glasgow Youth Hostel (Glasgow)
• Euro Hostel Glasgow (Glasgow)
• Broadford backpackers (Isle of Skye)
• Stirling Youth Hostel (Stirling)

How to Get Around Scotland

Public Transportation – Public buses and trams cost around 1.50-2 GBP for one-way ride. For a single-day pass, expect prices to start at 4 GBP per person. In Glasgow, a 7-day public transportation pass costs 17 GBP.

Only Glasgow has a subway system and the tickets for the bus and metro are not interchangeable as they are operated by two different companies (though prices between the two are comparable).

Airport shuttles cost around 6-8 GBP each way.

Flying – Flying around Scotland is both inconvenient and expensive. There are very few direct flights, making it slower to fly than to take the bus. I would avoid flying and just take the bus or train.

Bus – Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around the country as they link most destinations in the country. Scottish Citylink, Stagecoach, Megabus, and National Express are the four main companies that operate here. Tickets can be found for as little as 1 GBP via Megabus, though they’re usually around 10-25 GBP.

Edinburgh to Glasgow, for example, is a one-hour bus ride that costs 8 GBP while the three-hour journey from Glasgow to Inverness costs around 20-30 GBP. The sooner you book your ticket, the lower the price, so always try to book in advance. The coaches here are modern and comfortable with bathrooms and Wi-Fi as well.

Train – Trains connect all the major cities in Scotland (as well as the towns and villages they pass through). When purchased in advance (12 weeks out is the sweet spot), tickets are only a little more expensive than the bus. For example, Inverness to Glasgow takes about as long as the bus and is only 30 GBP while Edinburgh-Glasgow is 30 minutes faster than the bus for just 1-2 GBP more. Just be sure to book early to get the best prices. Last-minute tickets can be expensive!

Car rental – Scotland is a great road trip destination. You can get cars for 20 GBP per day and campers for 30 GBP per day. Just remember that traffic flows on the left. Most vehicles are manual transmissions as well. Renters need to be at least 21 years of age.

Rideshare – Ridesharing apps like Uber are a reliable but expensive way to get around in cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Skip them if you can.

For longer distances, use BlaBlaCar. It’s a ridesharing app that pairs you with drivers who are traveling to other cities. They have profiles and reviews (similar to Airbnb) so it’s quite safe. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus, but it’s faster and more comfortable.

When to Go to Scotland

Summer is the most popular time to visit Scotland. In July and August, there’s warm weather and minimal rain, with temperatures reaching highs of around 20°C (68°F). This is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds in the cities and lots of people out enjoying the national parks. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place in August, which is a huge multi-week festival. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance if you’re visiting during this time.

September is a rather wet month, though in October there’s incredible fall foliage. Overall, October is a great time to visit — especially if you plan on renting a car or camper and heading into the Cairngorms (Scotland’s biggest national park). Seasonal businesses and accommodations start to close in mid-October so be sure to keep that in mind when planning. Expect October temperatures to hover around 12°C (55°F) during the day.

The spring is a great time to visit, with April and May offering minimal rain and no crowds. There’s still snow and cool temperatures in the highlands, but the cities are lively without being crowded.

Winters in Scotland are cold and dark. December is relatively dry, with temperatures dipping below 0°C (32°F). It’s nevertheless a popular time to visit, with many tourists coming to Edinburgh for the huge Hogmanay New Year’s Eve celebration (one of the biggest New Year’s festivals in the world). Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to attend.

By February, snow is common so keep that in mind if you plan on renting a vehicle. Unless you’re coming to engage in winter sports, I’d avoid a winter visit unless you don’t mind the grim and grey atmosphere of the country.

How to Stay Safe in Scotland

Scotland is a safe country, even for solo travelers, and even for solo female travelers. Like in all cities, stay vigilant when you’re in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation as that is when pickpockets usually strike. If you keep your valuable secure, however, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Additionally, solo female travelers don’t need to worry in Scotland, however, women should take the standard precautions when traveling alone at night (don’t travel alone intoxicated, keep an eye on your drink, etc.).

Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left here. Most vehicles are manual transmissions and have the gear shift on the left (which is opposite to most other countries). Driving might take some getting used to so drive carefully — especially in cities and when going through roundabouts.

If you are hiking, make sure you have the appropriate equipment and notify your accommodation of your plans just in case as the weather can change quickly in the highlands.

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it in Scotland!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Scotland and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hostels in Edinburgh

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

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Absolutely, Scotland is a land full of things to see and do, perhaps more than you can fathom in just three days — but don’t let that discourage you. Even in such a short span, you are in for an unforgettable trip. Here’s our guide to creating the perfect 3 days itinerary in Scotland, with tips and example itineraries from our travel experts. 

Is 3 days enough for Scotland?

• Itinerary #1: Scotland's heartbeat

Itinerary #2: Scottish family adventure

Itinerary #3: urban gems of scotland, itinerary #4: wild scotland, itinerary #5: secret scotland, prepare for your 3 day itinerary in scotland, travel ideas for scotland, created by local experts.

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

A true 'Outlander' Adventure

Calling all Outlander lovers…you are in luck! Who would like to follow in the footsteps of the nurse Claire Beauchamp on her trip to Scotland in 1743? We have designed the perfect itinerary to experience the most charming corners that feature in the series.

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Highland Tour: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Edinburgh

Discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.

There’s no denying that Scotland has much more to offer than what can be experienced in three days. That said, it is certainly enough to have a great trip — especially if you are planning on adding Scotland to a larger itinerary featuring multiple countries. Your trip may leave you longing for more, but rest assured, these three days will be filled with great sights.

With such limited time on your hands, you’ll want to be very precise in planning your itinerary.  Do you want to explore the cities of Glasgow , and Edinburg h with their historic landmarks, and lively pubs? Or would you prefer to explore Scotlands' nature? Either way, be sure to check the typical weather during the time of your stay, and travel time between destinations. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of planning a perfect Scottish itinerary , you can always instead leave it to us.  With our  tailor-made trip service , you can simply enjoy the journey while we handle all the planning and bookings for you. Our trips, meticulously crafted by local travel experts , are entirely adaptable to suit your preferences. 

Fairy Pools Waterfall Skye Island Scotland © Shutterstock

Itinerary #1: Scotland's heartbeat

Your adventure begins in Edinburgh on  day one , where you'll arrive and settle into your accommodation before venturing out to explore the city at your own pace. Treat yourself to dinner at The Tower Restaurant, which offers great views of Edinburgh's skyline from atop the National Museum of Scotland. 

Day two invites you to uncover Edinburgh's rich history as you visit iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and stroll along the historic Royal Mile, taking in the atmosphere of narrow closes and wynds. Don't miss the chance to hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city and beyond. 

On day three , you’ll journey to the Highlands for a Loch Ness boat tour or shoreline exploration (keeping your eyes peeled for the legendary Loch Ness Monster). Then, view the haunting beauty of Glencoe and stop by the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the area's geology, wildlife, and history, including the infamous massacre of 1692.  Finally return to Edinburgh in the evening. For a memorable final dinner, consider indulging in the culinary delights of The Kitchin in the Leith area. Book this trip .

Mary King close, Edinburgh © Julye/Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check out this 3 days itinerary in Scotland:

• Arrival in Edinburgh.
• Rest and settle into your accommodation.
• Freetime to explore the city.
• Dinner at The Tower Restaurant, located at the top of the National Museum of Scotland. 
• Visit Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's capital.
• Explore the Royal Mile, a historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Wander through narrow closes and wynds, browse shops selling tartan and souvenirs, and visit landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral and the Real Mary King's Close.
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano in Holyrood Park offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond.
• Choose from various hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
• Journey to Loch Ness for a boat tour or exploration along its shores, keeping an eye out for the elusive Loch Ness Monster.
• Visit Glencoe, a hauntingly beautiful valley with a tragic history and breathtaking scenery.
• Return to Edinburgh in the evening.
• For your final dinner in Edinburgh, consider dining at The Kitchin.

Want to visit Scotland? We can help you plan the perfect trip .

Princes St Gardens in the West End of Edinburgh © Shutterstock

Your journey begins in Edinburgh on  day one , where you'll settle into your accommodation before heading to Edinburgh Zoo. Here you can explore exhibits such as the giant pandas, penguins, and koalas, and learn about conservation efforts and wildlife conservation. Follow this with a visit to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, located near the top of the Royal Mile. Here the family can interact with optical illusions, holograms, and mirror mazes, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop terrace.

Day two takes you to Stirling , where you'll explore the historic Stirling Castle. Explore the castle's grand halls, royal apartments, and medieval architecture, and learn about its rich history, including its role in Scottish history and the Wars of Independence. Then, learn about Scotland's past at the Battle of Bannockburn interactive center before enjoying dinner at Brea, known for its modern Scottish fare.

On  day three , venture to Loch Lomond for a family-friendly hike amidst stunning scenery. Choose from a variety of trails suitable for all ages, soaking in views of the loch and surrounding mountains. Conclude your adventure with a return to Glasgow and a dinner at The Elephant House, a historic café with ties to J.K. Rowling's early Harry Potter books. Book this trip .

Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument, Scotland © Shutterstock

• Arrival in Edinburgh and check into your accommodation.
• Visit Edinburgh Zoo.
• Explore Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, located near the top of the Royal Mile.
• Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle, a renowned restaurant located near Edinburgh Castle. 
• Transfer from Edinburgh to Stirling by train or car.
• Tour Stirling Castle, a historic fortress with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Experience the Battle of Bannockburn at the interactive center, located near the site of the historic battle. Discover the strategies and tactics used by Scottish and English forces during the battle, and gain insight into the events that shaped Scotland's history.
• Dinner at  Brea, a contemporary restaurant located in the heart of Stirling.
• Transfer from Stirling to Loch Lomond (either by car or train).
• Enjoy a family-friendly hike around Loch Lomond.
• Dinner at The Elephant House.

Loch Lomond, Scotland © Shutterstock

This quick three-day trip gives you a taste of the gems that Scotlands cities have to offer. Your adventure kicks off in Glasgow on  day one , where you'll arrive and settle into your accommodation before visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Here you’ll get to view Scottish masterpieces and explore exhibitions. Then, head to the interactive Glasgow Science Centre for a hands-on exploration of science and technology. Round off the day with dinner at Rogano, a historic seafood spot.

Day two sees you traveling to Edinburgh by train, where you'll tour the iconic Edinburgh Castle for panoramic city views and a dive into Scottish history. Stroll along the historic Royal Mile, perhaps stopping by attractions like St. Giles' Cathedral or the National Museum of Scotland. End the day with a lavish dinner at The Witchery by the Castle.

On  day three , hop on a train to Dundee to explore the innovative V&A Dundee and learn about Captain Scott's Antarctic expedition at Discovery Point. Then return to Glasgow for a final dinner at the Ubiquitous Chip, known for its inventive cuisine. Book this trip .

Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) of Glasgow at night, Scotland © Shutterstock

• Arrival in Glasgow and check into your accommodation.
• Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to explore its diverse collection of art and artifacts. Spend time admiring works by Scottish artists such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh and exploring exhibitions on natural history, ancient civilizations, and more.
• Explore interactive exhibits at Glasgow Science Centre, located near the River Clyde. 
• Dinner at Rogano, a historic seafood restaurant located in the heart of Glasgow. 
• Transfer from Glasgow to Edinburgh by train.
• Tour Edinburgh Castle. Explore the castle grounds, visit the Crown Jewels, and learn about the castle's role in shaping Scottish history.
• Wander along the historic Royal Mile, lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks.
• St. Giles' Cathedral.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Visit the National Museum of Scotland, located on Chambers Street.
• Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle.
• Transfer from Edinburgh to Dundee by train.
• Explore the V&A Dundee, located on the waterfront.
• Visit Discovery Point to learn about Captain Scott's Antarctic expedition aboard the RRS Discovery.
• Return to Glasgow in the evening.
• Final dinner in Glasgow at the Ubiquitous Chip.

RSS Discovery Dundee © Shutterstock

On this three-day trip, you’ll explore the highlights of Scotlands' wild nature. You’ll arrive in Aviemore on  day one , where you'll begin your journey by exploring the Cairngorms National Park. Consider a scenic drive along the Cairngorms Scenic Route to soak in the breathtaking landscapes. After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at The Old Bridge Inn, a beloved local spot.

Day two sees you venturing to the mystical Isle of Skye , where you'll hike to the Fairy Pools nestled in the Cuillin Mountains. Check out the crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls before visiting the iconic Neist Point Lighthouse, perched dramatically on the western coast with panoramic views of the sea and cliffs.

On  day three , take a scenic drive from Skye to Fort William , where you'll tackle the mighty Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles. Choose your hiking route wisely, whether it's the challenging ascent via the Mountain Track or a more adventurous path. Revel in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Scottish Highlands from the summit before returning to Aviemore in the evening for a final dinner at The Winking Owl, a cozy restaurant in the heart of town.   Book this trip .

Old Man of Storr, Scotland © Pixabay

• Arrival in Aviemore.
• Explore Cairngorms National Park.
• Scenic drive along the Cairngorms Scenic Route. 
• Dinner at The Old Bridge Inn.
• Transfer from Aviemore to the Isle of Skye.
• Hike to the Fairy Pools, located in the Cuillin Mountains.
• Walk along the River Brittle to reach waterfalls and crystal-clear pools.
• Visit Neist Point Lighthouse.
• Drive from the Isle of Skye to Fort William.
• Trek up Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles. Choose from various hiking routes, ranging from the challenging ascent via the Mountain Track to more adventurous routes for experienced climbers.
• Return to Aviemore in the evening.
• Final dinner at  The Winking Owl.

 Cairngorms National Park, Scotland © Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

On this 3-day itinerary, you’ll get the chance to uncover the hidden treasures of Secret Scotland.  Day one begins in Peebles, where you'll check into your accommodation before delving into history at Neidpath Castle. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating past and panoramic views of Tweed Valley. Then, lace up your boots for scenic walks along the riverbanks or venture into the hills and forests for more adventurous hikes.

Day two whisks you away to the charming village of Plockton, where you'll discover the stunning Coral Beaches, known for their white sands and turquoise waters. Relax on the beach or embark on a boat trip for seal spotting.

On  day three , journey to Aberdeenshire to explore the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle, which is perched majestically atop cliffs overlooking the North Sea. Continue your coastal exploration to the Bullers of Buchan, visiting the natural sea arch and observing seabirds nesting on the cliffs. You’ll conclude your adventure back in Peebles before heading to your next destination. Book this trip .

Plockton, Scotland © Shutterstock

• Arrive in Peebles and check into your accommodation.
• Explore Neidpath Castle, a historic fortress overlooking the River Tweed. 
• Take a guided tour.
• Enjoy walks in the scenic Tweed Valley, with options for leisurely strolls along the riverbanks or more adventurous hikes in the nearby hills and forests.
• Transfer from Peebles to Plockton.
• Visit the stunning Coral Beaches near Plockton.
• Take a boat trip or go seal spotting in the picturesque village of Plockton, famous for its coastal beauty and marine wildlife.
• Transfer from Plockton to Aberdeenshire.
• Explore the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle.
• Visit the Bullers of Buchan, a natural sea arch and birdwatching site near Peterhead.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the coastal path to admire the stunning rock formations and observe seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
• Return to Peebles in the evening.

Each of our itineraries is thoughtfully put together by our team of local travel experts to help you make the most of your holiday. To spark your inspiration, discover the best time to visit Scotland , explore its best attractions , or see our other Scotland itineraries.

If the idea of spending hours researching for your dream trip doesn't appeal to you, opt for our  tailor-made trip service . Our trips are completely customizable to cater to all your preferences.

Ready to plan your own 3-day itinerary in Scotland? See our Rough Guide to Scotland for expert insights and plenty of planning tips to get started.

The Rough Guides to Scotland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Scotland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Scotland

• Eating and drinking in Scotland
• Getting around Scotland: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Scotland
• Travel Tips Scotland for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration for Scotland here

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 26.04.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Scotland Travel Guide

Your ultimate scotland travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in scotland. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Found in the northern third of the United Kingdom is the great country of Scotland.

Known for the warmth of its people, lush greenery and mountains, beautiful coastlines and beaches, medieval castles, and rich history, Scotland is a place like no other.

It is perfect for those who find the beauty in nature. Made up of almost 800 small islands, there is a lot to see and explore here. 

This Scotland travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Things To Do in Edinburgh
• North Coast 500

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Scotland

• Currency:  Scotland currency is the Pound sterling (£) and 1 pound sterling is equal to 1.25 USD.
• Power:  Scotland power voltage is 230v 50 Hz.
• Visa:  Tourist Visas are not required when visiting Scotland. All that is needed is a U.S. passport that has been valid for at least 6 months prior to visiting Scotland.
• Best way to get around:  Renting a car is considered the best way to get around Scotland. You must be over 21 to rent a car.
• Driving  in Scotland is done on the left-hand side of the road! 
• SIM Cards:  The most common cellular networks in Scotland are Orange, O2, and Vodafone. You can purchase a UK SIM card to connect your phone to one of these.
• Value-added tax  (VAT) is applied to most goods in Scotland. Visitors may be able to reclaim these taxes based on the store and amount purchased. For more information, click here.  http://www.rampantscotland.com/know/blknow_vat.htm

Things to See and Do in Scotland

• Edinburgh Castle :  Take a guided tour through this medieval and world-famous castle. Visitors will get to learn about the fascinating history behind this castle while exploring the castle up close.
• Culloden Battlefield  is the historic site of the last battle to take place on  British  soil in 1746. This battle is frequently referred to as one of the most important for Scotland, as it marked the end of the clan system in the highlands.
• Kilchoman Distillery:  Learn everything you wanted to know about whiskey and how it’s made. Stay for lunch at their café, try some coffee or cake, or enjoy whiskey tastings.
• Drive the North Coast 500  – Scotland’s epic road trip takes you around the entire northern route of the country through the highlands, past impressive sea cliffs and through the land of castles and distilleries.

Scotland Travel Guides

• Dunrobin Castle
• Dunnet Head
• Clava Cairns
• Culloden Battlefield
• Things to do in Inverness

Accommodation

Budget:  For those on a budget, Scotland offers many hostels at roughly 20 pounds per night. Many have shared bathrooms, but you can upgrade to get a private bathroom in some if you’re willing to pay more.

Mid Range:  These typically cost £60 to £100 per night and often come with complimentary breakfast as well as free Wi-Fi. Scotland also offers plenty of bed and breakfasts around the same price.

High End:  For those who wish for a unique experience, Scotland offers plenty of high-end castle hotels. These castle hotels are rich with history and offer plentiful views. Prices tend to fall in the £100 to £350 range. In the smaller cities, it might be best to check out VRBO for more of a selection.

• Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

You can find a variety of pubs and street food in Scotland.

The national dish is haggis, a meat pudding served with mashed potatoes and turnips. Expect to pay around £30 per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Scotland

Getting to scotland:.

Getting to Scotland:  For those flying to Scotland, the Edinburgh Airport or Glasgow Airports are two of the main airports and are conveniently just 7-8 miles from the city center.

You can check for the best flights to Scotland on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Bus:  When you need to get around the city, the bus is a cheap option. They run all throughout the day and cost around £2-5 depending on where you go

Train:  Trains are available throughout Scotland and tend to cost at least 20-40 pounds for a one-way trip depending on how far your journey is. This is a great way to get to major cities if you don’t have a car, as routes such as Glasgow to Edinburgh only take an hour.

Car Rental:  By far the most flexible way to discover the country is by  renting a car . It is fairly reasonable ($40/Day) and allows to reach those charming little towns you might not otherwise be able to discover.

Just remember they drive on the left-hand side of the road and almost all cars are manual transmission. If you want an aoutomatic you will have to pay more.

When to go To Scotland

June to August is considered the best time to visit Scotland, as this is Scotland’s summer months. This is also the peak of tourism.

For those who want to avoid the crowds and perhaps get better deals, the spring season (late March to May) is a good period to go.

There is also little difference in weather between the spring and summer seasons, so you can still enjoy plenty of great weather, with temperatures around 59 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Where to Stay in Scotland

Grand Central Hotel :  Located right in the city center of Glasgow, this Victorian hotel is 4 stars and offers many attractions. Take a stroll through the shopping district, walk to Central Station to visit more of Glasgow, or dine at the hotel’s very own restaurant and bar. This hotel also offers the best in high-speed Wi-Fi.

Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh :  Shaped like a castle, this four-star hotel comes with 24-hour room service, a spa and health club, and its own restaurant and bar. Located in the famous Royal Mile, you get to see amazing sights and history of Edinburgh. The Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and shopping area are all within walking distance from this hotel.

The Chester Hotel :  This contemporary and classy hotel is in the heart of West End Aberdeen. Enjoy some of the best in hospitality, with rainfall showers, Egyptian cotton sheets, and designer toiletries. Explore more of Aberdeen or stay indoors for some afternoon tea and cake.

Scotland Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay in Edinburgh – A Guide To The Best Places and Neighborhoods
• 3 Days in Edinburgh – The Complete Edinburgh Itinerary
• Things to do in Inverness – The Capital of the Scottish Highlands

What to Pack for Scotland

Packing tips.

Scotlands weather is relatively mild throughout the year except in the Highlands. Rain can be exp[ected at anytime so pack accordingly.

• Pack a raincoat  – chances are that you will encounter rain no matter what month you travel. A light rain shell is highly recommended as it will combat the rain AND wind you will probably face in Scotland.
• Layers  – As Scotland has diverse weather, it is best to bring clothes with multiple layers to accommodate the changes in temperatures. Scarfs, sweatshirts, gloves are all good options. For travel during winter months, make sure to bring a heavier coat as air frost can be common in certain areas.
• Footwear   – Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and/or a pair of light boots with lugged soles and ankle support if you plan on doing a lot of hiking
• Classic Basic items – You do not need to be a fashionista to blend in. The key is in embracing neutral toned items that can be mixed and matched easily. Avoid logos, baseball caps, shorts, hoodies, flip-flops, and running shoes as these items scream  tourist!

Scotland Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Scotland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods (2024)

25 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland In 2024

26 Best Things to do in Scotland in 2024

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• DESTINATION GUIDE

The essential guide to visiting Scotland

Here’s everything you need to know about this land of lochs—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Scotland

Monumental mountains and misty glens. Castles with hidden stories. A dram of whisky straight from the source.

Best time to visit Scotland

Spring: Many attractions are open without summer crowds. Golf courses open in April; the season officially starts in May.

Summer: This is the ideal time for hiking and biking, although accommodations along the most popular routes—such as the West Highland Way —fill up well in advance. There are plenty of events, including the Edinburgh Festival and Highland Games .

Autumn: Changing leaves create arresting scenes in forests—it’s a great time to visit Perthshire , known as “Big Tree Country.” The Edradour and Glenturret distilleries are well placed for combining a walk with a whisky sampling.

Winter: The Edinburgh Christmas Market kicks off in November, and Scots prepare to celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). On January 25, pubs honor Burns Night —the birthday of national poet Robert Burns —with a dinner of haggis , neeps (turnips), and tatties (mashed potatoes).

Lay of the land

Cities: Well-heeled capital Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest performing arts festival . The medieval Old Town looms over Princes Street gardens and the New Town with art galleries and chic bars. Glasgow is boisterous and friendly, with a lively music scene. Craggy Stirling , topped by the eponymous castle, was the site of several historic battles. On the east coast, Dundee and Aberdeen pack museums and maritime history into their walkable downtowns.

Highlands: Hikers flock to the heather-bound moors and mountains of Cairngorms National Park ,   overlapping the Speyside whisky-producing region. The landscapes surrounding Glenfinnan and Glencoe have featured in films.

Hebrides: The Isle of Skye is famed for its otherworldly topography. Flawless beaches await on Lewis and Harris . On Mull ,   stop by the colorful coastal town of Tobermory or scale the rugged slopes of Ben More.

Northern Isles: Neolithic sites, including Skara Brae, are scattered across the Orkney Islands . View Viking sites and the eponymous ponies on the Shetland Islands .

Southern Uplands: Stately homes and castles grace the Scottish Borders. Dumfries & Galloway is home to the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and the majestic Sweetheart Abbey .

North East:   Seek out royal connections at Glamis Castle in Angus, or Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire. Photogenic Perthshire is home to the prestigious Gleneagles hotel and golf course.

Central Belt: Relive the greatest victories of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace at Bannockburn and the National Wallace Monument , respectively. The John Muir Way spans 134 miles of lochs and woodlands.

Getting around Scotland

By plane: Daily flights operate from Glasgow to several Hebridean islands. Flights to   Sumburgh (Shetland) and Kirkwall   (Orkney) depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.

By bus: National Express and Citylink operate buses between the major cities. Buses are limited in the Highlands and Islands.

By train: ScotRail runs most services in Scotland, mostly along the Central Belt. This reduces to a few main lines in the Highlands.

By car:   Driving in Scotland is on the left and requires an international driving permit. Road types include motorways (M), A-roads (A), and B-roads (B). Scotland’s main roads include the A1 from London to Edinburgh; the A74(M)/M74 from Gretna to Glasgow; and the M9/A9, stretching from just outside Edinburgh to Thurso on the north coast.

By boat: Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries sail to 21 Hebridean islands; Northlink runs car ferries to Orkney and Shetland. Book well in advance.

Know before you go

Scottish languages: Scots Gaelic (pronounced “gaa-lik”) is still spoken by around 60,000 people, mostly in the Highlands and Islands. English, however, has been the main language spoken in Scotland since the 18th century. Though many believe it to be a dialect, Scots (descended from Northern English) is a distinct language , spoken by 1.5 million people.

Hours: Even in cities, restaurants can keep restrictive hours, with some kitchens closing as early as 8 p.m. On Sundays, businesses often open at 1 p.m. and may close by 4 p.m.

LGBTQ+:   Scotland legalized same-sex marriage in 2014. Glasgow hosts Scotland’s largest Pride festival, as well as the Scottish Queer International Film Festival (SQIFF) in autumn.

How to visit Scotland sustainably

Outdoors: Read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code before setting out. Avoid deer stalking areas between July and February. Refrain from stone stacking, which can cause erosion .

Dining:   Farm-to-table—or, indeed, sea-to-table—is easy to find in this nation of farmers and fishermen. It’s increasingly common for restaurants to display ingredient provenance on their menu.

Shopping:   Seek out independent farm shops and sustainable distilleries . Support Scottish artisans at rural markets and festivals, such as the Pittenweem Arts Festival . Check labels to be sure the products you’re eyeing were made in country.

Accommodation and attractions: The Green Tourism certification scheme, which now operates in 20 countries, was founded in Scotland. It assesses 70 criteria, such as ethical production, carbon, and waste. Certified members—including accommodations, attractions, and tours—display a Green Tourism plaque.

What to read

Scotland: A Concise History , by Fitzroy Maclean (Fifth Edition). The former soldier and politician brings bloody battles and national heroes to life. In the fifth edition, journalist Magnus Linklater adds chapters on Brexit and the 2014 independence referendum.

Rival Queens , by Kate Williams. The historian charts the alliance between Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England, which ends in devastating betrayal.

Rob Roy , by Sir Walter Scott. The celebrated writer’s classic work takes place during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715.

Raw Spirit: In Search of the Perfect Dram , by Iain Banks. A humorous travelogue of Scotland’s distilleries, from the iconic to the obscure.

( For more tips on what to do in Scotland, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

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Scotland Travel Guide

Selected resources, embassies and consulates, festivals and games, must see and do, natural wonders, train stations, visas and passports, gaelic language, famous scots, regional guide, helensburgh, pencaitland, cowdenbeath, fort william, kinlochleven, stoneybridge, blairgowrie, forgandenny, balquhidder, things to do and see, art galleries, castles and forts, museums in scotland, religious sites, scotch distilleries, whisky trail, bird watching, highland games, horse riding, off-road driving, scotland: the land of the gaels.

The name of Scotland comes from the Latin name for the Gaels – a linguistic group, native to Scotland and other areas of the United Kingdom (UK). Alba, the Scot name for Scotland, comes from the Celtic name, Albion.

The Gaelic language, the country’s stunning terrain, and its 1,200 medieval historic homes and castles all draw travelers to Scotland. In addition, the country’s Scottish clans, tartan designs, Scotch whiskey, and world-recognized golf courses give travelers yet another reason to escape to the Land of the Gaels.

The country plays host to 587 golf courses and is home to approximately 130 whiskey distilleries. Scotland also evokes a sense of magic with its folklore – stories, passed down through time, that tell of mystical creatures, including beasts and serpents.

When you choose to travel in Scotland, you will not be taking a holiday just to pass the time. Scotland provides plenty of entertainment, whether you wish to visit a castle, improve your golf swing, learn more about the country’s history or language, or enjoy a lively evening in one of the country’s pubs.

Located 75 minutes from London and 110 minutes from Paris, Scotland comprises 800 islands besides the main island in the UK. Situated in mid-west Europe, the country occupies the northern third of Great Britain and shares a border with England to the south. From its wild coastlines to its rolling green valleys and towering mountains, Scotland’s terrain is part of its overall appeal.

While you can be assured that the mainland features a jam-packed list of attractions and activities, its 800 small isles, north of the county, provide great getaways too. The Shetland Isles and Orkney Isles possess a magical mix of Celtic, Norse, and Scottish culture and history .

To the west of the mainland, archipelagos, such as the Outer Hebrides, offer a chance to enjoy the sun and surf in the summer while the Inner Hebrides feature scenic excursions, such as the Isle of Skye. It does not matter what area you visit. Scotland always sits close to a body of water.

For example, the North Sea in the East separates Scotland from the rest of Europe while the Atlantic Ocean in the north and west serves as a divider between Scotland and Iceland, the U.S., and Canada. The Irish Sea, to the Southwest, separates the country from Northern Ireland.

Each region of Scotland has a distinctive character and charm. Therefore, regardless of where your travel, Scotland is full of fun experiences, historic discoveries, and surprises.

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire represent one of Scotland’s most vibrant regions. The city of Aberdeen features pristine beaches, crumbling fortresses and landmarks, and cultural attractions that define the area’s maritime heritage. The bustling city of Aberdeen, located in the center of the region, is widely recognized as the Oil Capital of Europe. The city’s history as an oil and gas producer have given it widespread acclaim in the business community.

The Argyle and the Isles

Another Scottish destination, the Argyll and the Isles, displays rich coastal seascapes and Highland scenery. Located on Scotland’s west coast, the region charms visitors with its quaint seaside villages and towns, mouth-watering seafood, and rugged terrains.

The area is also is well-known for its world-renowned whiskey distilleries. Explore the drama that gives Skye its awesome beauty or take a ferry to the seaside town of Oban. You might also visit Helensburg, known for its architecture and history. The empty beaches and rolling hillsides of Argyll and The Isles offer nature scenes and discoveries for anyone who likes adventure.

Dumfries and Galloway

From babbling brooks to its dense woodlands, Dumfries and Galloway offers the ideal backdrop for adventurers. The area’s stunning scenery has inspired writers, artists, and poets for hundreds of years. Visitors to the region can learn more about the area’s history by traveling to Scotland’s National Book Town of Wigtown, or exploring the Artists’ Town, Kirkcudbright . You can also spot the region’s unique wildlife while exploring the valleys and trails of Galloway Forest Parl, a famous Scottish nature reserve in the region.

Dundee and Angus

You can unveil some of Scotland’s most precious nature scenes in the region of Dundee and Angus. The area provides travelers with pristine shores, world-class golfing, ancient woodlands, and long stretches of rugged hills. The fourth largest city in Scotland, Dundee guards the banks of the River Tay. Further up the coast, in Arbroath, locals serve Arbroath Smokies, a specialty in Angus.

Made from haddock, a mild saltwater fish from the North Atlantic, Arbroath Smokies need no further cooking and can be eaten after hot-smoking. By comparison kippers, another Scottish dish and a tradition of Scottish cuisine , are cold-smoked herring that must be cooked before being eaten. Both kippers and “smokies” are eaten for breakfast, or may be added to soups or chowders. Foodies eat the “smokies” cold, in a pate, or savor them grilled or poached. “Smokies” may also be added to omelets or pastas.

For history buffs, you can escape back in time to Arbroath Abbey. The Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320 at the Scottish historical site. Therefore, the landmark is well-recognized in this region of Scotland.

Edinburgh and the Lothians

Edinburgh and the Lothians serve as the home of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. Wherever your turn in this part of Scotland, you will be greeted by adventure. The area features UNESCO World Heritage sites, upscale shopping, and award-winning dining.

Memorable landscapes, charming towns, and the unforgettable peaks of the Pentland Hills, within the surrounding Lothians, makes this region the ideal place to explore. The Lothians refers, collectively, to 3 lowland counties, situated in the central belt of Scotland.

Other Notable Regions

Other Scottish regions of note include Glasgow ; the Kingdom of Fife; the Highlands (which is the home of breathtaking landscapes and Highland Clans); Loch Lomond, the Trossachs, Stirling, and the Forth Valley (known as the Gateway to the Highlands); the Shetland Islands (which lie about 100 miles off the northeast coast of Scotland); Perthshire; and the Scottish Borders.

Each part of Scotland offers visitors something unique – something that makes this UK country as magical and inviting as it is exciting and memorable.

Country Profile

Scotland is the second largest country in the United Kingdom and comprises about 33% of its total land area. It shares its southern border with England with the remainder of Scotland being surrounded by water including the North Sea, Irish Seas and the Atlantic Ocean. The country has 6170 (10,000km) miles of coastline. From north to south (vertical measurement), Scotland is about 280 miles in length and between 25 and 150 miles in width.

The country is comprised of 4 archipelagos (Hebrides, Orkney, Shetland, and Faroe Islands) and well as 796 islands with Lewis and Harris, Shetland, Orkney, and Skye the most populous of the ten largest islands. Many of hundreds of Scotland’s islands are either uninhabited or have a population of less than 200 residents with 125 islands inhabited.

The head of the Scottish Government is the First Minister and the country is represented in the United Kingdom and European Parliament and a member of the British-Irish Council. Scotland has limited self-government and is represented in the House of Lords by Scottish Members of Parliament. The country is divided into 32 limited, self-governing council areas (administrative subdivisions).

Below is our country profile containing facts and information to familiarize you with Scotland.

• Common English Country name: Scotland
• Official Name: Scotland
• Formation: Devolution (1998), Union with England (1707)
• Historical Nicknames: The Kingdom of Scotland, Scoti, Alba (the Scottish Gaelic name)
• Country Motto: “In My Defens God Me Defend” (“In my Defense God Me Defend”)
• Government: Devolved Parliamentary Legislature
• Capital: Edinburgh
• Largest City (Population): Glasgow
• Select Cities: Glasgow (largest), Aberdeen, Dundee, Paisley, East Kilbride
• Points of interest: Edinburgh, the Highlands, Glencoe, Shetland Islands, Isle of Sky
• Nationality: Scottish (preferable) or British
• Religion: Church of Scotland, Roman Catholic
• Population: 5,500,000 (2018)
• Life expectancy: 77 years for males and 81 years for females
• Primary ethnicity: White
• Languages: English. Scottish Gaelic and Scots are officially recognized as regional languages.
• National Anthem: Various national Anthems exist but “Flower of Scotland” is most common
• Area: 78,000 Km² (30,000 mi²)
• National Symbols: Thistle and its blue flag with Saltire (Saint Andrew’s Cross)
• Average temperature: 51°F (11 °C)
• Climate: Cool and Wet. July is the hottest month (11 °C), January is the coldest (4 °C)
• Highest elevation: Ben Nevis, elevation of 1,345 m (4,413 ft)
• Longest River: River Tay, length of 188 km (117 miles) long
• Deepest Lake (Loch): Loch Morar, depth of 309 metres (1,014 ft)
• Largest Lake: Loch Lomond (25 miles/40km in length)
• Location: United Kingdom, in Europe
• Calling code: +44 (same as England)
• Coordinates: GPS- 56° 29′ 26.416″ N 4° 12′ 9.525″ W (Center-point)
• Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP; £)
• Driving side: right
• Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (UTC); Summer Day Light Savings Time (DST) is UTC + 1
• Internet TLD: .scot (which is commonly known as a Geo top-level domain); otherwise “.uk”

Scotland Travel

What currency is used in scotland.

Scotland’s official currency is the Pound Sterling which is common represented by the symbols (GBP; £). If you are visiting Scotland from the United States, then type “USD to GBP” in your browser for the current exchange rate.

Where should I visit when in Scotland?

Scotland is known for its hundreds of iconic castles and is referred to as the “Home of Golf” with its world famous golf courses hosting the Ryder Cup, the British Open, and the PGA European Tour. While in Scotland consider visiting one of its National Parks or nature reserves or partake on a tour of the hundreds of historic churches and museums . For those interested in distillery tours be sure to explore the Scottish Whisky Trail .

When is the best time of year to travel to Scotland?

The temperature usually fluctuates between 3–7 °C (37–44 °F) and 15–17 °C (59–63 °F) but the weather can be very unpredictable. Many travel experts recommend planning your trip either in the springtime (between the months of March and May) or visiting Scotland in the autumn (September through mid-November). Summers are warm although rain showers are quite common but most notably in the North. Snow is common in the Highlands during the winter months. Be sure to bring the appropriate clothing and plan accordingly.

What are some of the “must see” destinations in Scotland?

Scotland has a diverse and fascinating attractions. From off the beaten path tours to exploring the countryside and cites you will find the Scottish countryside dotted with quaint towns, beautiful landscapes and historical treasures. In between its rugged coastline and snow-capped mountains, we recommend that you consider visiting Cairngorms National Part, the Isle of Sky, the and Trossachs National Park.

How expensive is Scotland?

Youth hostels and rooms are plentiful with season prices ranging between USD$20 and USD50 a night. Mid-range hotels in the larger cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow can cost upwards of USD225 to $450 a night. Be sure that your budget accounts for meals, ground transportation, entrance fees, and entertainment which can cost $100 a day per person. Transportation, day tours, and rental car costs will vary based on your travel itinerary.

Do I need a visa to visit Scotland?

Depending on your citizenship and country of origin, a visa and other travel documentation may be required to visit or study in Scotland. At present, no visa is currently required if you are British (or a part of the United Kingdom (UK) or if you are from within the EU. However, with the heightened possibility of the UK leaving the EU (Brexit) travelers from other countries should need to check with UK immigration.

Is Scotland a Country?

There is not a clear-cut answer. Scotland has a limited, self-government but is part of the United Kingdom which retains partial control over some of Scotland’s internal matters such as social security, defense, international relations and limited matters of taxation. The Scottish Government is headed by a First Minster who serves as the political leader of Scotland and is appointed by the Monarch. Scotland’s future status will be determined once the United Kingdom’s withdrawal (“Brexit”) from the European Union Brexit has been concluded.

In strict geographical terms, Scotland is about the size of South Carolina, but that comparison is deceptive. This country—the northernmost in the United Kingdom—is crisscrossed by impassable mountains, deep valleys, large lochs, and wide rivers, with very few roads actually running in a straight line. As such, distances are often misleading, and journey times need to be adjusted accordingly. Highlights of any visit include the two major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh (lively places with lots going on), plus the scenery and long history of rural Scotland (whether in the Highlands, the islands, or regions like the Borders).

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When’s the best time to go to Scotland?

Scotland is ideal for travel almost three-quarters of the year. The only time to avoid is the depth of winter—unless you enjoy dark nights, short days, and the occasional gale force wind. The best seasons are arguably spring and autumn, when crowds thin and you’ll get more of the country’s attractions to yourself. However, summer is also nice, with several festivals, moderate temperatures, and days that don’t end until well after 10 p.m., especially in the north. Regardless of when you visit, be sure to bring a waterproof jacket.

How to get around Scotland

Most people arrive in Scotland by air, landing at one of two major international airports on the outskirts of Glasgow and Edinburgh. The two cities are only about 50 miles apart and well connected by frequent express trains. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from London or a ferry from Ireland.

If you’re planning on spending time in the cities, you can rely on public transportation—Glasgow has an underground train, while Edinburgh has buses and a newish tram. If you’re heading to the countryside, however, you’ll want to rent a car for the most freedom. Trains and buses across Scotland don’t really compare with those in Europe; the nation’s public transportation system is generally extensive but is slower, costs more, and is less frequent than in, say, Germany.

Food and drink to try in Scotland

Cuisine in Scotland is no longer an afterthought or risky proposition. Sure, you can still find stodgy food and oddities like the deep-fried Mars bar, but the country’s natural resources are superb. Whether it’s heather-fed lamb or Galloway beef, smoked salmon or creel-caught lobster, craft beer or single-malt whisky, it’s all among the best in the world. Local dishes to try include the smoked haddock chowder known as Cullen skink, grilled langoustines, and pan-seared scallops served with Stornoway black pudding.

Culture in Scotland

Scotland has a long intellectual and literary history. Some of the most influential English-speaking leaders of the Enlightenment were Scots (David Hume, Adam Smith), as were famous writers like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson (plus Alasdair Grey and Ian Rankin, both still working today). Equally alive is the music scene—contemporary acts like Belle and Sebastian, Idlewild, and Withered Hand attract international attention, and there’s a prominent folk music scene with standouts like singer Karine Polwart and fiddle player Aly Bain. Scotland also has its own national art collection, jazz orchestra, and theater, ballet, and opera companies.

Can’t miss things to do in Scotland

Scotland’s two major cities are less than an hour’s train ride apart, but each has its own character and vibe. Edinburgh is the gem, with its royal palace and hilltop castle, though it can be gritty along the fringes. Glasgow, on the other hand, is contemporary in feel, with a gregarious nature—especially among its natives. Once you’ve done your urban duty, seek out the countryside, whether the rolling hillsides of the Lowlands or the majestic crags of the Highlands. In rural Scotland, you’ll find more evidence of the country’s long and sometimes violent history, with castle ruins that vividly evoke the past.

Practical Information

American travelers only need a valid passport to visit Scotland, but with the U.K. on the verge of exiting the European Union, more documentation may be required in the future. The main language is English, the currency is the British pound, the voltage is 240 volts, and the socket type is G.

Local Resources

For the basics: Visit Scotland

For weekly events: The List

For food news: 5pm Blog

For a more personal take on Scotland and the islands in particular: Stories My Suitcase Could Tell

Guide Editor

Barry Steven Shelby is a Berkeley, California–born journalist, author, broadcaster, crofter, environmentalist, and quite a bit else, who has lived in Scotland since 1997. After a decade in Glasgow, he moved to the Western Isles, where, in addition to writing and broadcasting, he weaves on a handloom, sketches, and regularly takes long walks across the hills and along the sea.

Scotland Guided Tours & Trips

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2-day Outlander Tour (Small Group)

5 day skye & highland fling, jacobite steam train & the great glen, 3 day isle of skye, isle of skye and the highlands, scotland by train 2025 - edinburgh start, country roads of scotland (classic, 9 days), best of scotland (winter, 7 days), outer hebrides & skye explorer - 6 days.

“All locations were fantastic to see. So glad we did this tour and highly recommend.” Catherine Jarrett, traveled in June 2024

• In-depth Cultural
• Midhope Castle: Admire the ruins of this 15th-century castle, better known as Lallybroch
• Doune Castle: Explore the historic castle, which you may know as Castle Leoch
• Clava Cairns & Culloden Battlefield: Walk the historic battlefield and learn more about the Jacobite Rebellion.

“The tour showed us the best of the best and our driver Neil was amazing. Would definitely recommend the tour.” Lachie Blair, traveled in August 2024

• Head to Isle of Skye and hike to amazing rock formations
• Learn all about the fight for independence
• Hunt for Nessie and get your first glance of Highland life

“The sites were excellent, the only issue was finding somewhere to eat in St Augustus after 9pm.” Susan Ord, traveled in August 2023

• Train & Rail
• Mallaig: Explore the coastal village with views to the Isle of Skye
• The Hogwarts Express: Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and join one of the world's most scenic railway journeys
• Glen Coe: Dramatic & wild landscape with history to match

“From start to finish, the tour was well-organized and packed with breathtaking sights and fascinating history.” jessa adloc, traveled in August 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Learn about the emotive history of the Culloden Battle
• View Ben Nevis and marvel Glencoe's haunting beauty
• Soak up the vibes, sights and sounds of Scotland

“The itinerary was varied and the weather played its part. We had a brilliant bus driver, Brendan who was very informative as well.” Julie Antony, traveled in May 2024

• Tour a famous whiskey distillery in Scotland
• Stroll through historic Inveraray by Loch Fyne
• Boat tour on Loch Ness and see Urquhart Castle

“An amazing experience, beautiful landscape and polite and nice guides.” Mariana Caires Nunes, traveled in April 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• View the picturesque Eilean Donan in the Highlands
• Hear the legends of the Isle of Skye and admire the views
• Enjoy the greatest railway journey in the world (Mid April – Mid Oct)

• Discover Inverness and its museum highlights
• Explore historic Edinburgh on your first day
• Tour Glasgow and taste whisky at Glengoyne

“It was really enjoyable.” Perry Villanueva, traveled in August 2023

• Visit the home of 'Chariots of Fire', West Sands Beach
• Spot the legendary monster at Loch Ness
• Wander through the ancient Edinburgh Castle

“Knowledgeable, personable and hard working. They made everyone feel welcome and safe.” Gregory Thompson, traveled in December 2023

• Tour Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
• See Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle
• Sample whisky at a traditional distillery

“A lovely trip which is well organized. Enjoyed the companionship of the friendly tour mates 😊” MUI KWAN CHEN, traveled in July 2024

• Sightseeing
• Isle of Skye - Take in the highlights of this beautiful island, with plenty of hiking and sightseeing to enjoy
• Loch Ness - Hunt for 'Nessie', the mythical beast believed to dwell in the dark waters of Scotland's most famous loch
• Glencoe - Soak up the stunning mountain views and learn about the tragic and famous massacre that took place here in 1692

More about Scotland

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Are we friends on Instagram? It's where I share some of my best tips, videos and day-to-day life in Scotland!

Scotland Travel Guide

Scotland is one of the most wildly romantic countries in the world, and it also happens to be the country I call home. There’s lots to love here: bagpipes, highland dancing, tartan, the Scottish Highlands, haggis, Irn Bru, the accent, and of course, kilts!

This Scotland travel guide is filled with all the basic information you need to know about Scotland before planning your trip. You’ll also find links to some of my most comprehensive guides, so make sure you read all of these too and you’ll be a planning pro in no time!

Just quickly, if you want to save yourself weeks and weeks of researching, I created the Planning a Trip To Scotland Course with fellow Scotland travel expert Kay from The Chaotic Scot. This course walks you through step-by-step- it also includes a workbook that will help you plan your perfect trip to Scotland!

Scotland Cheat Sheet

Population: 5.4 million

Size: 77,910 km²

Language: Scotland has three official languages: English, Gaelic and Scots. Gaelic and Scots are minority languages, while English is spoken throughout the country. You’ll most likely hear Gaelic spoken in the Outer Hebrides.

Currency: Pound Stirling [GBP]. Scotland accepts debit and Visa/Mastercard at most places and contactless payments are available. Carry cash, especially in the smaller towns where they may not accept card payments. I recommend carrying £100-£200 (a mixture of notes and coins).

Climate:   There is a saying in Scotland: if you don’t like the weather, just wait half an hour! The weather here is changeable, so packing layers is recommended. If you’re wondering if it rains all the time in Scotland, I recommend reading this article .

Best time to visit: Personally I think April/May [spring] or September/October [autumn] are the best months to visit Scotland . The weather is nice, the colours are beautiful and there are less tourists around.

How to plan a trip to Scotland

What to pack for a trip to Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland

I’ve stayed in some unique accommodations all around Scotland. There is a large variety of accommodation available- from bothies to castles, glamping to camping- there really is something to suit all tastes and budgets. 

When looking for accommodation in Scotland I use  Booking.com . Once I find a place I’m happy with, I’ll also compare prices by booking directly to see which has the most flexible cancellation policy and the best price.

For camping/glamping and quirky accommodation, I use  Canopy & Stars . For castles, cottages, and traditional Scottish accommodation, I also search   Cottages and Castles . I also use  Airbnb to search for quirky accommodations, self-catering accommodations, or accommodations for large groups.

Getting around

There are four main ways to travel throughout Scotland: by car, bus, train, and by ferry.

For car hire, I use  Auto Europe , a car rental comparison site (similar to Skyscanner). I have my own car in Scotland, however, I used Auto Europe to hire a car on my recent trip to Ireland and they were fantastic. I was able to secure a great rate that included insurance, so all I had to do was pick up my car from the airport when I arrived.

Travelling by train is my second favourite way to get around Scotland.

Scotrail  is the main railway in Scotland. Their website is very useful for researching train routes and prices.

For travel within the UK, I recommend first looking at Megabus . They have some fantastic fares- some for just £1!

Stagecoach is another popular bus company in Scotland.

For ferries to the islands,  Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac for short) is the major operator in Scotland. They also cater for vehicles and motorhomes. Check out their website for prices and special deals. 

Scotland also has its own regional airline Loganair . It can be useful for planning trips to some of the more distant islands in Scotland if you do not wish to drive and catch the ferry.

How to travel Scotland on a budget

How to spend 10 days in Scotland

Top 10 Must-Sees

There are SO many things to do in Scotland, but I won’t overwhelm you. Here are the top 10 attractions and things to do in Scotland. 

1.  Edinburgh Castle – Visit Scotland’s most popular castle [tip: book your tickets online here – it’s cheaper!]

2. Ride the Jacobite Steam Train – Ride the famous ”Harry Potter train” through the highlands.

3. Underground Vaults in Edinburgh – Explore Scotland’s haunted history in this amazing tour in Edinburgh.

4. Visit a whisky distillery – Learn how to taste Scottish whisky properly!

5. Visit the highlands – An absolute must-do when you visit Scotland.

6. Stirling Castle – Visit Scotland’s most sought after castle.

7. Visit an island – Try my Isle of Skye itinerary!

8. Drive the North Coast 500 – Explore Scotland’s version of Route 66.

9. Go hiking – Explore my Scotland hiking guides for inspiration.

10. Go to a traditional Scottish pub – Check out my blog post on my favourite Scottish pubs!

Places I’ve been in Scotland

Have you watched my Secrets of Scotland YouTube series?  Click here  to watch season 1 and feel inspired for your trip to Scotland!

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✨ Have a question about travelling around Scotland? Join my Facebook group Scotland Travel Tips

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The Best Scotland Travel Guide: A Must Read for All Travellers

Enchanting scotland: an introduction to scotland’s favourite destinations, captivating landscapes, seasons and how to travel around.

Scotland, United Kingdom is a great place to explore! The wide-open windswept landscapes are a masterpiece of nature and its simply breathtaking to witness it. The weather can change a lot here, and that’s pretty cool. This changing weather creates some of the most amazing rainbows and misty views you’ll ever see. I’ve been blessed to visit this awesome country several times over the years, both for work and on holidays. I try to return whenever I can. In this guide to Scotland, I share the best of the country as seen through my lens.

The wild Scottish Highlands , the rugged peaks of the Isle of Skye , and the untouched beauty of the Hebridean beaches are unique and I’m drawn to exploring deeper each time. The countless inviting lochs and glens tempt wanderers like me to pause, and enjoy the peaceful moments in their beauty. This old Celtic land has something special for everyone who likes exploring.

On this page, I am excited to share my knowledge, adventures and experienced tips about Scotland’s misty and magical landscapes. With this guide about Scotland , you’ll have the best tips and information that will make your trip to this land of stories and mysteries a seamless journey .

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

About Scotland

Step into the captivating world of Scotland, a land that weaves together history, culture, and natural beauty into a mesmerizing tapestry. Situated within the United Kingdom, and England ‘s northern neighbour, Scotland proudly stands on its own with a rich history and a vibrant cultural landscape.

People in Scotland love their heritage, and you can see this in their symbols like the thistle and the Saltire, the country’s blue-and-white flag. This feeling of identity fits right alongside their connections to the larger British and United Kingdom groups

While the Scottish Government handles the day-to-day affairs, the Scottish Parliament plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s future. Back in 2014, Scotland took a big step by holding a historic vote on whether to become an independent country. This lively political scene, along with the start of a new Scottish Parliament, shows how Scotland wants to make its own decisions while still being part of the United Kingdom.

Scotland’s Cultural Identity

From the timeless verses of Robert Burns to the eloquent writings of Sir Walter Scott , Scotland’s literary heritage is deeply woven into its identity.

As you explore this land, you’ll come across not only famous writers but also grand castles. Imagine Stirling Castle , majestically perched on a hill, and Eilean Donan Castle , a stunning fortress surrounded by the peaceful waters of Loch Duich. These castles are like living pages from history. And don’t miss Edinburgh Castle , a famous fortress that’s been standing tall for centuries, overlooking the vibrant city below.

Scotland’s Wild Landscape

As you explore Scotland’s diverse landscapes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sights. From the serene shores of Loch Lomond to the stunning views of Cairngorms National Park . Loch Ness, with its mystery and stories, draws visitors from all over. More about Scotland’s landscape a little further down this page.

Scotland is a land of dreamers, thinkers, and creators, a place where the past is alive, and the future is full of possibilities. In Scotland, every castle has tales to tell, every loch reflects the land’s spirit, and every step is an adventure into a world of wonder.

The Regions in Scotland

Explore the charms of Scotland, where each of the 15 regions brings its own distinct landscape and culture to the table. From the bustling city of Edinburgh to the serene beaches of the Hebrides and the rugged landscapes of the Highlands, every region has something special to offer. Uncover the diverse beauty and experiences that make each corner of Scotland a unique and unforgettable destination. Here are the regions of Scotland that are helpful to know when planning your travels.

ABERDEEN & ABERDEENSHIRE

ARGYLL & THE ISLES

AYRSHIRE & ARRAN

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

DUNDEE & ANGUS

EDINBURGH & THE LOTHIANS

THE KINGDOM OF FIFE

GREATER GLASGOW & THE CLYDE VALLEY

THE HIGHLANDS

LOCH LOMOND, THE TROSSACHS, STIRLING & THE FORTH VALLEY

OUTER HEBRIDES

SCOTTISH BORDERS

Best Destinations to Visit in Scotland

Embarking on a journey through Scotland is a remarkable experience to explore its diverse landscapes, rich history, and captivating culture. From the majestic Highlands to the bustling urban centers, Scotland’s best destinations promise a tapestry of experiences that cater to your heart. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient charm of castles, the untamed beauty of nature, or the vibrant pulse of cities, each destination offers a unique chapter in the story of this remarkable country.

What to Expect about this page on Scotland Travel Guide

In this extensive page, Scotland’s travel guide offers a plethora of articles awaiting your exploration. Delve into detailed destination guides, seasoned tips, and insider knowledge that will make your journey through Scotland truly unforgettable and the best.

Immerse yourself in synopses about the country’s geography , and find valuable insights on the weather and the best time to travel to Scotland . I have meticulously crafted comprehensive and complete guides to the most beautiful and amazing places you can’t miss in Scotland, and these are seamlessly appended via links which you can click-through for an in-depth exploration.

Learn about the people, their rich culture, and get ready to savour the finest of Scottish favourite foods and drinks that Scotland has to offer.

Let this be your go-to resource to unlock the hidden gems and must-see attractions that Scotland travel guide has in store.

Travel Quotes, Captions, and Sayings to Inspire Your Journey to Scotland

For travel inspiration, here are collections of quotes, and sayings by royals, famous writers, and actors:

93 Very Best Scotland Travel Quotes, Captions and Sayings to Inspire Your Journey;

18 Awesome Edinburgh City Quotes, Captions and Sayings to Accompany Your Travel Photos and Grow Your Instagram Presence.

Favourite Destinations in Scotland to Top Your Travel List

Scotland at a Glance

Highland Coos: Beyond Scotland Postcards

Top of Glenfinnan Monument: A Story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and The Highlander;

Meaning of Skye Boat Song in Scotland’s Cultural Tapestry;

Midge Free Areas in Scotland: 4 Places to Roam Freely All Year.

Here are some of Scotland’s finest gems, each waiting to leave a lasting impression on your adventure:

Edinburgh, the capital city, seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity, offering a diverse range of possibilities to explore. You can delve into the past with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, wander along the picturesque Royal Mile, and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the renowned Edinburgh Festival. With Edinburgh’s wealth of experiences, the city offers something for everyone. For those looking to explore this captivating city without breaking the bank, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in Edinburgh, from savouring street food to discovering free attractions.

Known for its vibrant arts scene, Glasgow offers world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. The Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery, and the vibrant West End are must-visit spots.

The Scottish Highlands

This stunning region is renowned for its rugged landscapes, including the famous Loch Ness. Hike in Glencoe, and drive the North Coast 500 route for breathtaking views.

Loch Ness: Aside from the legendary Loch Ness Monster, this area boasts deep lochs, serene beauty, and the ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Stirling: With its historic significance, Stirling features Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. Explore the history of William Wallace and the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

Inverness: Often considered the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is a charming city close to Loch Ness. Inverness is a great base to exploring the surrounds of Loch Ness.

Inverness: Best Guide to the Capital of The Highland.

Top 5 Hotels in Inverness City Centre

12 Best Things to Do in Cromarty, Scotland: Ross and Cromarty’s Hidden Gem;

Slow Travel Guide: Mastering Meaningful Travel Experiences;

Shieldaig, Scotland: Special Things to Do for Slow Travellers;

19 Unique Things to Do in Fort Augustus for Slow Travel;

Fort Augustus Millshop, Highland: From Sacred to Shopping Haven.

Things to Do in Loch Shiel, An Idyllic Paradise for Slow Travellers;

Prettiest Villages in the Scottish Highland: 21 Must-Visit Locales;

Keiss Village: Castles, Coastlines and, Caithness’ Charm;

21 BEST Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland for Every Traveller;

Dores Beach on Loch Ness: Activities in a Scottish Highland Haven;

Glenfinnan Viaduct: Best Viewpoints for a Hogwarts Express Spectacle;

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland: Why Is It so Famous and Worth Visiting?

Road to the Isles: 10 Stops from Fort William to Mallaig;

Falls of Foyers: Scotland’s Off-Beat Trail above Loch Ness.

Mallaig, Scotland: 12 Very Best Things to do in The Highland.

Eilean Donan Castle: The “Highlander or Outlander’ Conundrum;

Reasons to Ride the Harry Potter Train in The Highland.

Jacobite Steam Train Tours and the Latest Schedule

The History of Eilean Donan Castle to Enhance Your Visit;

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a scenic route that spans approximately 516 miles (830 kilometers) around the northern coast of Scotland. Officially launched in 2015, it has quickly gained popularity as one of the most stunning road trips in the world, often compared to the iconic Route 66 in the USA.

Starting and ending in the city of Inverness, the NC500 takes travellers through a breathtaking variety of landscapes, including rugged coastlines, majestic mountains, serene lochs, and charming villages. The route offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and road trip aficionados alike.

Here are some adventures and hidden gems along the North Coast 500 to discover:

14 Stunning Sandy Beaches on the North Coast 500 You Can’t Miss.

Is Smoo Cave Worth Visiting? 100% Yes! Here’s Why… An Essential Guide and Tips.

How to Get to Castle Sinclair and Girnigoe Walk + Tips.

7 Must-See Castle Ruins on the North Coast 500, Scotland.

Kylesku Boat Trips in Assynt, Scotland;

Keiss Castle Coastal Walk: Scotland’s NC500 Hidden Gem;

Dunnet Head Lighthouse: Exploring Scotland’s Northernmost Beacon;

How to Navigate the Duncansby Stacks Walk Without a Tour;

John O’Groat’s: 15 Reasons Why It’s Worth Visiting Scotland’s Far North;

Discover Why Ullapool is Worth Visiting on Scotland’s NC500;

Is Corrieshalloch Gorge Worth Visiting on a Scottish Road Trip?

Isle of Skye

An iconic destination with dramatic landscapes, the Isle of Skye is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Discover rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and the unique Fairy Pools.

The Best of Portree: 28 Best Things to Do in Skye’s Favourite City.

Best Time to Travel to the Isle of Skye: A Month-by-Month Weather Guide.

The Enchanting Sligachan Bridge on Isle of Skye.

Legends of the Old Man of Storr: Tales for Skye Travellers.

The Unique Collie-Mackenzie Monument at Skye’s Cuillin Mountains.

Located on the northeast coast, Aberdeen offers a mix of historic sites, a lively cultural scene, and access to beautiful coastal areas.

The Outer Hebrides

These islands offer pristine beaches, rugged landscapes, and a rich Gaelic culture. Harris, Lewis, and the Isle of Barra are some of the highlights.

Orkney Islands

With ancient archaeological sites like Skara Brae, beautiful landscapes, and a unique history, Orkney is a captivating destination.

The Cairngorms National Park

A playground for outdoor enthusiasts, this park boasts mountains, forests, and opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.

Known as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Perthshire offers picturesque villages, castles, and the stunning Tay Forest Park.

These are just a few of the many wonderful destinations in Scotland. Each one has its own charm and character, so whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Scotland has something to offer for every traveller.

About the Geography of Scotland

Scotland’s location and its borders.

Scotland shares its borders in the south with England , which runs for 154 kilometres (96 miles) between Marshall Meadows Bay on the east coast and the Solway Firth in the west. The west coast and northern Scotland looks out to the Atlantic Ocean while the east borders with the North Sea. Separated by the North Channel, the island of Ireland is 21 kilometres from mainland Scotland (Mull of Kintyre). To the northeast of Scotland, across the North Sea, is Norway at 310 kilometres (190 miles).

Scotland’s Landscape: An Overview

Scotland has a varied landscape — from rural lowlands to unspoilt uplands, and from large cities to sparsely inhabited islands.

The separation of the highlands and the lowlands are distinct, namely the highlands to the north and west and the lowlands to the east and south. These distinctively different physiographic regions is separated by the Highland Boundary Fault — a geological rock fracture that crosses the Scottish mainland from Helensburgh to Stonehaven.

The Highland, Scotland

The Highland of Scotland ‘s landscape is a symphony of breathtaking beauty and untamed wilderness. Stretching across vast expanses, it unveils an area of rugged mountains, serene lochs, and rolling glens. The Highlands captivate with their dramatic grandeur, where iconic peaks like Ben Nevis stand tall against the sky.

The highest peak in Britain. Ben Nevis stands at 1,345 m (4411 ft) above sea level and is one of the most iconic hills in the UK. The mountain attracts a lot of visitors annually and is a favourite for climbers each year.

As you explore the Highlands, don’t miss the opportunity to take on the challenge of climbing Ben Nevis. However, it’s important to note that conquering Ben Nevis requires reasonable fitness and good stamina, making it an adventure suited for those prepared for the ascent. Amidst the untamed beauty of the Highlands, the charm of this imposing peak beckons to those seeking both physical accomplishment and panoramic vistas. Go here for a good guide about climbing Ben Nevis that has lots of helpful information.

The Lowlands are found in the southern part of Scotland with a less elevated terrain. While the Lowlands are flatter, upland and mountainous terrain is located across the Southern Uplands.

The Central Belt

Between the Highlands and the Southern Uplands lies a strip called the Central Belt, popularly known as the “waist” of Scotland.

Stretching across the heart of Scotland, the Central Belt, often fondly referred to as the “waist” of the country, serves as a captivating nexus of urban vibrancy and cultural richness. Anchored by the major cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, this region pulses with historical significance, iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Glasgow Cathedral, and a myriad of museums and galleries.

The Central Belt is not only a treasure trove of architectural heritage but also a hub of festivals and events, epitomized by the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Beyond the urban landscape, the area offers picturesque escapes like the Pentland Hills for outdoor enthusiasts.

Conveniently connected by efficient road and rail networks, the Central Belt also showcases Scotland’s diverse culinary scene, shopping districts, and multicultural neighborhoods.

The Lowlands

The Lowlands, a significant region within Scotland, house a substantial portion of the country’s population, with a particular concentration along the Central Belt, spanning between the Firth of Clyde and the Firth of Forth.

This populous and culturally rich area, offers urban vibrancy, historical landmarks, and cultural diversity that define the Lowlands.

Scotland’s Islands, Lochs, and Glens

Scotland’s Islands, Lochs, and Glens embody the essence of natural beauty, making them essential destinations in your Scotland travel. The islands, scattered like gems along the coast, offer diverse experiences, from the rugged landscapes of the Isle of Skye to the rich history of the Orkney Islands.

Lochs, such as the mysterious Loch Ness, cradle tales of old while reflecting the tranquility of the landscape. Delve into the heart of Scotland’s Highlands through its glens—deep valleys carved by time, each with its own unique character. From the enchanting Isle of Mull to the iconic Glen Coe, these landscapes encapsulate Scotland’s wild and captivating spirit, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty that defines the country’s very soul.

The Islands of Scotland

Scotland has over 900 offshore islands – land surrounded by seawater. These offshore islands can be found in Orkney, Shetland and the Hebrides. The Hebrides are sub-divided to Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides. Along with these, there are clusters of islands in the Firth of Clyde, Firth of Forth and Solway Firth. There are many small islands within the bodies of freshwater in Scotland, such as Loch Lomond and Loch Maree. Lewis and Harris is the largest island. Staffa and Flannan Isle is well-known but these are smaller islands.

As for the terrain, the islands of Skye and Mull are mountainous while Sanday is relatively low. Many of the islands have bedrock formed from 3 billion years ago. The Orkney Islands are formed from Old Red Sandstone which is 400 million years old.

Lochs of Scotland

Scotland’s lochs are an integral part of the country’s natural beauty, a key element in your Scotland travel. With over 30,000 freshwater lochs and lochans gracing the landscape, they form a shimmering tapestry across the Scottish Highlands and beyond.

The Western Isles alone are home to around 7,500 of these serene water bodies, adding to the enchantment of the region. Among them, the five largest lochs – Loch Awe, Loch Lomond, Loch Morar, Loch Ness, and Loch Shiel – collectively cradle a significant portion of Scotland’s water.

Loch Lomond’s vast surface area spans 71 square kilometers, while Loch Morar boasts the title of the deepest loch, plunging an astounding 310 meters. Loch Ness, steeped in legends, not only captures imaginations but also holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. These lochs are more than just bodies of water; they’re repositories of history, myth, and the very essence of Scotland’s untamed spirit.

Whether it’s the tranquility of Loch Tay, the captivating vistas of Loch Fyne, or the scenic beauty of Loch Katrine nestled in the Trossachs National Park, each loch holds a unique charm waiting to be explored and cherished as a quintessential part of Scotland’s natural legacy.

The word “ Loch ” is Scottish Gaelic for a lake .

Glens of Scotland

Scotland’s myriad glens, each a captivating canvas of beauty, promise to steal your breath away. Among them, Glen Nevis stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur, gifting views of Britain’s loftiest peak, Ben Nevis. With individual personalities and untamed charm, these glens cast an irresistible spell, drawing you into the embrace of their mystifying mist that caresses the high hills with a whisper of secrets.

The Great Glen

Amid this tapestry, the Great Glen takes center stage as a highly recommended choice. Embarking on the Great Glen Way, a scenic route spanning from the untamed landscapes of Glencoe to the Highland hub of Inverness, is a journey that unveils Scotland’s untamed beauty. The path winds through jaw-dropping hills, tranquil lochs, and enchanting forests, presenting a natural masterpiece that captivates the senses.

I’d personally recommend a visit to the Falls of Foyer while exploring Loch Ness. The trail, although occasionally steep, is meticulously maintained, winding through captivating woodlands. Amidst this natural splendour, you’ll encounter rocks adorned with inscriptions of Burns’ poetry, a poetic touch adding to the unspoiled surroundings. As you wander, a quaint café at the trail’s summit offers a perfect spot for a coffee pause, enhancing your experience with delightful moments.

My personal journey through the Great Glen left me with timeless memories. Amid the journey, pausing to immerse in Fort Augustus’ charms and admiring boats gliding into the dock enriches the adventure. The iconic Caledonian Canal and the enigmatic Loch Ness further enhance the allure. The Great Glen is more than a route; it’s a captivating narrative woven into the very fabric of Scotland’s wild magnificence, leaving an impression that resonates, much like the whispers of its mist.

Castles in Scotland

As you explore the rugged mountains and reflect upon the mirror-like lochs that shape Scotland’s enchanting landscape, you’ll find that the castles that grace this nation are as much a part of the scenery as the natural wonders themselves.

While journeying across Scotland, the ubiquitous presence of castles and their haunting ruins becomes an unmistakable reminder of the country’s rich heritage and history. Each castle holds a story, waiting to be discovered, making every stop worthwhile.

Castles in Scotland to Visit

Scotland, peppered with remarkable examples of castle architecture, each bearing a unique tale of its own.

Take, for instance, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a moated triangular fortress that stands proudly against the dramatic backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. This awe-inspiring castle is steeped in history, representing the grandeur of Scottish castles that resonate through time.

Stirling Castle , another gem, echoes the legacy of centuries past. With its roots tracing back to the 15th century, it is no less than a witness to pivotal moments in Scottish history. The Scottish Crown Jewels have graced its halls, and its towering presence continues to exude a sense of regal magnificence.

Travel a little deeper into the Cairngorms National Park, and you’ll encounter tower houses that harken back to the 16th century. These sturdy fortresses tell tales of Scottish clans, battles, and the unyielding spirit of the people. The charm of history is woven into every stone, every timber.

In the heart of Edinburgh stands the indomitable Edinburgh Castle, a fortress that has stood firm for centuries. It’s the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, echoing with the footsteps of generations. Owned by the British royal family, it has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, and its walls have borne witness to both triumph and tribulation.

Further north, the splendour of Blair Castle beckons. With roots tracing back to the 13th century, this castle exudes Scottish baronial architecture at its finest. A home to historic figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie , the castle’s history is entwined with the tapestry of Scottish history.

Culzean Castle, Cawdor Castle , and countless others remain as testament to times long past. Their remains open a window to the past, inviting visitors to step into the grandeur and grace of bygone eras. As you wander through these storied halls, the whispers of Mary Queen of Scots and other historic figures become tangible, breathing life into Scotland’s past.

Venture to the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, and you’ll find castles that have become synonymous with the region’s majesty. Dunnottar Castle, perched on a clifftop, offers not only a glimpse into history but also unparalleled vistas of the North Sea.

With each castle, Scotland unravels its history like a well-worn scroll. These architectural marvels stand as guardians of time, transporting us to eras of chivalry, battles, and intrigue. As much as the mountains and lochs, the castles are the beating heart of Scotland’s timeless beauty, an unmissable part of any journey through this captivating land.

The Main Geographical Points of Mainland Scotland

When planning your trip to Scotland, get to know the country’s geographical points. These geographical landmarks like Easter Head, Aberdeenshire, Mull of Galloway, and Ardnamurchan not only define the cardinal directions but also serve as navigational anchors that guide your trip planning. These diverse points offer a roadmap to explore the richness of Scotland’s regions, helping travellers craft an unforgettable adventure that spans from the northernmost reaches to the captivating western shores.

• Easter Head;
• Dunnet Head ;
• Keith Inch;
• Aberdeenshire.
• Mull of Galloway;
• Dumfries and Galloway.
• Corrachadh Mor;
• Ardnamurchan;

These points provide a good overview of the various landmarks and regions that mark the geographical extent of mainland Scotland in each direction.

Dunnet Head

Dunnet Head, situated on the north coast of Scotland, is a captivating destination known for its iconic Dunnet Head Lighthouse . This lighthouse, overseen by the Northern Lighthouse Board, stands proudly as the northernmost point of the mainland of Britain, guiding ships through the challenging waters of the Pentland Firth.

The rugged cliffs, nesting sites for seabirds maintained by the RSPB, and the picturesque Dunnet Bay contribute to the area’s natural allure. Dunnet Head is historically significant which connects to World War II and the maritime heritage of Scapa Flow. Dunnet Head’s historical and maritime importance is accentuated by its proximity to Duncansby Head and the Orkney Islands.

The lighthouse, an engineering marvel attributed to Robert Stevenson, continues to play a vital role in modern navigation, aided by radar stations and advancements in technology. With ties to the Queen Mother and a legacy that spans generations, the lighthouse stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich maritime history.

For those seeking a blend of history, nature, and coastal beauty, Dunnet Head offers an unforgettable experience along the captivating north coast of Scotland. If you plan to explore this region, you’ll find comfortable accommodations at the Northern Sands Hotel.

Best time to Visit Scotland

When it comes to visiting Scotland, each season paints a distinct canvas of experiences, catering to a variety of interests. Having explored Scotland in spring, summer, and autumn, I’ve found that there isn’t a definitive “best” time to visit, as each season offers its own unique charm. Regardless of the weather, Scotland offers a wealth of attractions and activities across its diverse landscapes. However, for those seeking guidance on planning a visit, the following general insights can be useful.

Spring (May to June) and Autumn/Fall (September to October) stand out as prime months to explore this enchanting country. The weather during these times tends to be milder, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures, wildlife watching, and even catching a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

The high season takes center stage in the summer, particularly from July to August. During these vibrant months, Scotland comes alive with festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe , showcasing the country’s rich cultural tapestry. However, be prepared for larger crowds as tourists flock to the renowned Highland Games , the and various events taking place across the land.

Longer daylight hours and milder weather present perfect conditions for exploring the Cairngorms National Park or indulging in some island hopping in the stunning Outer Hebrides.

The high season is also midge season, so be prepared with midge repels and protection.

Embracing the quieter beauty of the low season , from November to April, offers a unique perspective of Scotland. Winter months bring their own charm, as celebrations like New Year’s and Burns Night bring warmth to the cold air. For those seeking a cozy retreat, the west coast and the Scottish Highlands present enticing options.

So, whether you’re planning a trip across Scotland, island hopping through the Outer Hebrides, or seeking trip ideas for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, this captivating country is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveller.

Getting to and around Scotland

There are several travel options to journey to and within Scotland that seamlessly merge modern convenience with breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re embarking on an international adventure or exploring the country’s corners, a diverse range of transportation modes and a well-connected infrastructure make your travel experience both accessible and enchanting.

Getting to Scotland

Air Travel: Scotland boasts major airports in cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen, served by renowned airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, and EasyJet. These gateways connect travellers from various international destinations, ensuring a convenient and well-served arrival experience. For a full list of airports in Scotland, go to this page on Airports in Scotland .

Train Travel: Well-established rail connections link neighboring countries like England to Scotland. Companies like Virgin Trains East Coast and ScotRail offer scenic journeys, making train travel an eco-friendly and comfortable option for travellers.

Ferry Services: For those journeying from Ireland or Northern Europe, ferry services provided by companies such as Stena Line and NorthLink Ferries offer captivating maritime experiences. Ports like Cairnryan, Aberdeen, and those serving the Orkney Islands welcome visitors with open arms.

Getting Around Scotland

Train and Bus: Scotland’s comprehensive train network, operated by ScotRail, provides extensive coverage across the country. Buses, managed by companies like Stagecoach and Citylink, complement the train services, ensuring seamless connectivity to towns and rural areas.

Bus/Coach — Using the bus/coach is an affordable way to travel across and around Scotland. It is easy to get to where you are going with Scotland’s extensive road network.

Car Rentals: The freedom of a car rental from reputable providers like Discover Cars allows you to explore remote landscapes at your own pace. Scotland’s well-maintained roads, including the iconic North Coast 500 route, promise memorable journeys.

Ferries and Islands: There is something special about going across waters and watching your destination get closer over the horizon as you approach it. Discover the charm of Scotland’s islands via ferry services by CalMac Ferries, Serco NorthLink Ferries, and other providers. Voyages to destinations like the Isle of Skye, the Orkney Islands, and the Outer Hebrides offer glimpses of coastal splendor.

PRO TIP: A point to note is that ferry journeys may be weather dependant in some instances especially across to the Orkney or the Shetlands. Always check before arriving at the ferry port.

Urban Transportation: Public transportation networks within cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow are managed by entities like Lothian Buses and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT). Buses, trams, and subways provide efficient means of navigating urban landscapes.

Embarking on your Scottish adventure, whether by air, rail, ferry, car, or public transportation, promises not only convenience but also a canvas of captivating landscapes and cultural treasures. As you immerse yourself in Scotland’s enchanting tapestry, the journey itself becomes an integral part of the unforgettable experience.

As a deliberate escapist and a mindful wanderer…

As I reflect on my numerous trips to Scotland, I’m reminded time and again of the exquisite beauty that graces this remarkable land. Each visit reignites the cherished memories of my journeys through Dumfries and Galloway, my explorations along Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish Border, the captivating dreamy charm of Fife and Edinburgh, and the unforgettable adventures on the NC500 along with the mystical charm of the Isle of Skye.

Among these treasured moments, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of riding the steam train, a long-held dream fulfilled. And who could forget the magical sight of the Harry Potter train gracefully traversing the Glenfinnan Viaduct , with a trail of smoke and the sound of ‘hoot’—a timeless experience etched in my heart.

Walking through the ancient walls of Eilean Donan Castle are time treasured. Basking in the serenity of Fort Augustus as the sun bids adieu over Loch Ness was a true moment of tranquility. The breathtaking spectacle of the Falls of Foyer remains vivid in my memory, a testament to Scotland’s captivating landscapes.

Yet, amidst all these treasures, the truth remains: there’s always more to discover. Scotland’s allure is never-ending, and I’m eagerly anticipating my return to explore the untamed corners I’ve yet to uncover. The allure of its castles, the echoes of its history, the splendour of its landscapes—all beckon me to return and continue this enchanting journey.

As you set foot on your own path through Scotland, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the articles that illuminate Scotland’s magic. Whether you’re seeking tales of history, the grandeur of landscapes, or the essence of its vibrant cities, this guide is designed to spark your curiosity and fuel your own Scottish odyssey.

By subscribing to timelesstravelsteps, you’ll stay connected as this guide evolves, with fresh articles that deepen your understanding of Scotland’s multifaceted allure.

Scotland so generously offers. So, let the adventure continue—there’s a world of Scotland waiting to be discovered.

Have a splendid time exploring Scotland!

Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You xx

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Scotland Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Scotland can be a bit of an overwhelming process, especially when one realises just how much there is to see and do in the incredible country. There is so much to Scotland beyond the cobbled streets of Edinburgh or the mystical shores of Loch Ness and this Scotland travel guide is designed to help you get the most out of any length of Scottish adventure.

Scotland has everything from historic islands to stunning mountain peaks to vibrant cities to charming small towns. It is a destination that appeals to both the outdoor adventurer and the most devout of city-slickers. Filled with history, beauty and incredibly warm and friendly people, Scotland is a destination that will continue to draw you back for years on end.

If you’re planning a trip to the wild north and are looking for the best tips, tricks and information to ensure that you have the best holiday possible, then this guide is for you!

Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our  privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Planning a Scotland Route

Mapping out the perfect route through Scotland can actually be a pretty difficult process, with so many different things to see and do in this seemingly small country. Do you want to concentrate on the major cities and their surrounding areas? Do you want to hit the road and take on the now-famous North Coast 500? Or do want to venture a bit off the beaten tourist trail, maybe exploring Scotland’s Highlands and islands?

Regardless of where and how you want to travel around this amazing country, we have a number of guides to help you along the way and ensure that you plan the best trip possible. Make sure to browse the itineraries and routes below in order to map out your perfect Scottish adventure!

An Alternative 5 to 10 Days North Coast 500 Itinerary

The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

14 Best Stops on the Edinburgh to Inverness Drive

The Ultimate London-Scotland-Ireland Itinerary

Glasgow or Edinburgh: Which Scottish City to Visit?

10 Tips for Planning a Trip to Scotland and Ireland

Places to Visit in Scotland

Though seemingly small in size, Scotland is packed with incredible places to visit and it is absolutely impossible to see everything in one trip — no matter how much time you have to play around with.

From historic sites to windswept islands to mountain peaks to the deepest lochs to dynamic cities, there are countless places to visit in the country that are worth spending your time in.

If you’re looking for some place-specific information about a number of different areas, cities and towns in Scotland, then make sure to browse through the guides below to ensure that you’re able to get the most out of your time in Scotland!

9 Things To Do In Oban: A One-Day Itinerary

16 Things To Do In Mull: A 2 to 3-Day Itinerary

The Perfect 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Isle of Skye Itinerary

The Perfect One Day in Inverness Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Glasgow Itinerary

The Perfect 1 or 2 Days in Fort William & Glencoe Itinerary

13 Things To Do In Orkney Islands: A 3-Day Itinerary

Day Trips in Scotland

If you’re planning on basing yourself in a major city like Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness and exploring the country from there during your trip, this is really a fantastic option. Visiting some highlights of the country as day trips is a great way to see as much as possible without having to move destinations every single night.

If you want to check out our guides to some of the top day trips in Scotland, make sure to browse the articles below!

The Perfect Isle of Mull Day Trip from Oban

The Perfect Loch Ness Day Trip from Edinburgh

9 Best Day Trips from Inverness

Planning a Loch Lomond Day Trip from Glasgow & Edinburgh

Best Time to Visit Scotland

Figuring out what time of year to visit Scotland can be a difficult task, especially considering the country is necessarily known for having the best weather in the world. In fact, because of the inclement weather you should expect when visiting Scotland, there are a few more considerations that one needs to keep in mind before heading to the country at any time of year.

The most popular time to visit Scotland is in the summer months of June-August. This is when you’re going to get the warmest average weather (don’t really expect any temperatures in excess of 20 ° C (68 ° F)) and the longest days — with sunlight lasting well past 10PM.

This is, however, where you will encounter the most tourist crowds and the highest prices for things like accommodation. Especially in the month of August, when Edinburgh hosts its world-famous Fringe Festival, the capital city can be absolutely packed and very expensive.

Conversely, visiting in the winter months is where you will experience the coolest temperatures (with highs hovering around freezing and plenty of snow to be expected in some places) and the shortest days. If you’re visiting in December or January, don’t be alarmed when it begins to get dark at around 3PM — winters are dark and dreary in Britain and Scotland gets the worst of it.

Autumn and spring can be great times to visit Scotland if you don’t mind chilly temperatures. These months aren’t nearly as cold and dark as the winter and you can expect the crowds in popular tourist areas to be far fewer than in the summer months.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, make sure that you come prepared with the right gear. Scotland is so impeccably green for a reason — it rains a lot!

No matter what time of year, you are going to need to pack a warm, waterproof jacket and adequate footwear because, as the saying goes: there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! Browse our guides below to find out our top picks no matter the season.

The Best Jacket for Scotland & Ireland

The Best Shoes for Scotland & Ireland

Cost of Travelling to Scotland

Scotland is not known to be the most budget-friendly destination in the world and these assumptions are true — costs can be quite high in the country.

That is not to say, however, that it is not possible to travel in Scotland on a tight budget. In fact, you don’t need to spend your entire life savings on a trip to Scotland. There are countless ways to cut costs in the country without sacrificing overall quality.

If you’re planning on visiting Scotland on a budget or just want to be aware of what kind of prices to expect in the country, we have written a couple of guides to help you plan in advance. Make sure to have a look at the articles below so you know how much to budget for your Scotland trip!

Is Scotland Expensive? Trip To Scotland Cost Guide in 2024

Is Edinburgh Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Edinburgh

Transportation in Scotland

How you plan to get around Scotland is a major consideration that needs to be taken into account when planning your trip as there are a number of options and your choices can have a big impact on the quality of your trip.

For instance, if you’re only really planning on visiting major cities (like Edinburgh or Glasgow) and their surrounding areas, it’s entirely possible to rely on public transport (like the bus or the train) for the majority of your trip, supplementing it with the occasional small group tour if you want to head out to some harder to reach areas.

Many visitors to Scotland will want to get around solely by using the rail or bus network and, as mentioned, this can work if your itinerary follows what I just outlined. However, if you’re at all interested in visiting the Highlands, islands or more rural destinations in Scotland, you are really going to want to hire a car.

Driving in Scotland is fairly straightforward and nothing to be worried about, you just need to be prepared that there are some narrow country roads in a lot of less densely populated areas and make sure to exercise caution when driving here.

Read More: Best Prepaid SIM Card for UK Travel with Data

Having your own car in Scotland will allow you to reach a number of otherwise difficult-to-reach destinations all while not having to be at the mercy of erratic or sparse bus timetables. It will also allow you to travel independently and only see the things that interest you, and give you all the time you want in certain destinations — an option not available if you’re travelling by organised tour.

If you want to hire a car in Scotland, we recommend booking through RentalCars.com . This platform aggregates all prices on car hire across major rental companies, ensuring you can get a great deal.

It can also very much be worth taking out a third-party excess insurance policy through iCarHireInsurance to ensure that you have peace of mind should anything happen to your vehicle.

Accommodation in Scotland

If you’re wondering about the accommodation options available in Scotland, you will be happy to know that you will be spoilt for choice in the vast majority of the country. Especially if you’re staying in more heavily touristed areas, there are always countless options available to suit all travel styles and budgets, so you don’t need to worry too much about finding accommodation here.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget, hostels are plentiful throughout Scotland , even in more rural areas as they are popular amongst trekkers and walkers along with you typical budget travellers.

If you don’t mind sacrificing a bit of comfort, wild camping is also an excellent option that is legal in many areas of the country — just make sure to be respectful of the place you choose to spend the night and completely clean up after yourself when you leave!

Bed & breakfasts and family-run guesthouses are also popular options amongst mid-range travellers. These can give you a homely, local experience and most will include a hearty breakfast in the price of the room, saving you money on a meal, as well!

You will find nicer, luxury hotels in most major tourist areas in Scotland and there is also even the option to stay the night in a castle if your budget allows for it!

There are also lots of options for private apartment stays or room rentals through platforms like Airbnb. A private room on Airbnb can a great option for those looking for a good budget option without sacrificing comfort and an entire flat rental can be a good option for those who are looking for a unique stay or just a comfortable, self-catering place to rest your head.

Scotland is packed with great accommodation options that are suitable for every breed of traveller, from your penny-pinching backpacker to those who like to travel at the height of luxury.

Read More: Where to Stay in Inverness, Loch Ness & Cairngorms, Scotland

Travelling in Scotland can be a truly unforgettable experience that will forge memories that will last a lifetime. Hopefully, this Scotland travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to this amazing country and leave you dreaming of many more to come!

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The 11 best places to visit in Scotland

From sky-high mountains to unspoiled beaches, the Land of Scots has plenty to offer

Vibrant historic cities, sandy unspoiled beaches, tiny characterful islands and mountains rising into the clouds – imagine a country that could give you it all, all in one trip? Well, in Scotland, you don’t have to imagine.  This compact country of a mere 30,000 square miles at the north-western corner of Europe has got the lot – with a dram or two of the world’s best whisky on the side.

B e it the capital city of Edinburgh’s crepuscular cobbled streets, Glen Coe’s ghostly landscape, the golden sands of Luskentyre on Harris or the fish and chips of the East Neuk of Fife, Scotland is full of incredible places to visit and things to enjoy from coast to coast. Here are the best place to visit in Scotland, by someone who grew up there. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏞️ The most beautiful places in Scotland 🎭 The best things to do in Edinburgh 🍻 The best things to do in Glasgow 🏩 The best  Airbnbs in the Scottish Highlands

Malcolm Jack  is a writer from Scotland . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Must-see places to visit in Scotland

1.  edinburgh.

In the Scottish capital, history looms above you at practically every turn. The city is built on and around seven hills, including extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat , and Castle Rock, where the mighty 900-year-old Edinburgh Castle clings improbably to the top. Below in the warren-like Old Town, discover the dense cobbled streets, closes and stairways of a centre of human habitation over a century in the making. In the New Town, admire grand neo-classical Georgian architecture. Every August, Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Fringe . 

Discover Edinburgh: 📍 The best things to do in Edinburgh 🍝 The best restaurants in Edinburgh 🏘️ Where to stay in Edinburgh

2.  Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris

300 miles from the bustling heart of Edinburgh lies a white sandy beach so peaceful and untouched you can barely believe you’re still in the same country. Resembling a tropical paradise with its azure blue seas, Luskentyre lies at the end of a long narrow track on the Hebridean isle of Harris’s Atlantic-facing west coast. Save for a few nearby houses there are few signs of human habitation. Come early enough in the morning and you might get the beach all to yourself.

🏖️ Discover more of the best beaches in Scotland

3.  Braemar

At 339 metres above sea level, it’s one of the coldest places in Britain. But for a slice of Scotland at its most dramatic and beautiful, not to mention luxurious, you can’t beat a bit of Braemar. The peaks of the Cairngorm National Park envelop the village, which has an almost Alpine feel thanks to its unusual colourful Victorian-era timber buildings. There’s a plush hotel with a huge art collection and a gourmet restaurant, and a boutique high street with all from cosy pubs to a patisserie. In winter you can ski nearby up at Glenshee.

4.  Mull of Kintyre

A corner of Scotland so entrancing that a Beatle was once inspired to write a song about it. Down at the far southwestern tip of the Kintyre peninsula lies headland with views all the way to Northern Ireland on a clear day. Paul McCartney owns a farm in the hills above nearby Campbeltown, where he spent many a happy time in the 1970s together with his late wife Linda McCartney and their young children. It was there that he wrote and recorded one of his most successful songs ‘Mull of Kintyre’ – a heartfelt ode to the mountains and the mist rolling in from the sea that’s as apt today as it ever was. 

5.  Glasgow

What it might lack in good looks compared to Edinburgh, Scotland’s biggest city more than makes up for in personality and passion. The former ship-building mecca on the River Clyde has remerged from late-20 th century industrial decline as a cultural powerhouse, famed for its music, clubbing and visual art scenes, and increasingly its wealth of wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants. The leafy green parks and top-class museums aren’t bad either. Glasgow ’s down-to-earth sense of humour enriches everything about the place, and makes great nights out a certainty. 

Discover Glasgow: 📍  T he best things to do in Glasgow 🍴 The best restaurants in Glasgow 🏨 The best hotels in Glasgow

6.  Lochranza Distillery, Isle of Arran

You’ll find amazing whisky distilleries all over Scotland from Speyside to Skye, but few are as fun and convenient to visit as Arran’s. Get a train from Glasgow direct to the Ardrossan ferry terminal and enjoy a swift hour’s sailing across to the largest island in the Firth of Clyde. From there you can take a bus or taxi up the coast to Lochranza for a whisky tour and a tasting. Once home to more than 50 distilleries (most of them illegal), Arran now has just a handful, of which this the oldest and most visited. Its water, sourced from Loch Na Davie, is said to be the purest in Scotland.

7.  Isle of Eigg

A tiny inner Hebridean island of legends, both ancient and modern. In centuries past Eigg, with its distinctive stump-like peak An Sgùrr, witnessed Viking conquests, warring clans, a brutal massacre and all but complete clearance of human habitation by its lairds in favour of farming sheep. But in 1997 it was given a new lease of life, after being bought over by islanders and reinvented as a bastion of off-grid, sustainable community ownership and living. Population today 100 plus and slowly rising, Eigg’s an inspiration, wrapped in magical seafront and nature, with its own microbrewery, music festival and miles of cliffs, crags and beaches to roam and explore.

8.  The Flow Country, Caithness and Sutherland

What does a giant, desolate peat bog in the far north of Scotland have in common with the Serengeti, the Galapagos Islands and the Great Barrier Reef? Answer: World Heritage Site status, which was granted to the 1,500 square mile Flow Country in 2024. One of the world’s largest carbon stores, vital to the future of mankind, its Scotland’s first World Heritage Site inscribed for purely natural criteria. As one of the most sparsely populated places in Britain, rich in flora and fauna, with great snow-capped mountains rising and falling across its horizon, it’s a breathtaking landscape to behold. Like journeying to the edge of the world.

📍 Discover the most beautiful places in the world

9.  Glen Coe

The sheer majesty of the Highlands unveils itself few places more powerfully than in this great valley formed by an ancient supervolcano. Glen Coe is synonymous with one of Scotland’s most notorious acts of violence, when around 30 men from Clan MacDonald were slain by government forces in the aftermath of the Jacobite uprising of 1689 in the Glencoe Massacre. Their ghosts are said to still linger in the landscape, but the only thing truly haunting about Glen Coe is its rugged beauty. The way the steep slopes of Buachaille Etive Mòr and Aonach Eagach rise up suddenly and mightily around you along the mountain pass is truly awe-inspiring.

👻 Discover the most haunted places in the world

10.  Dundee

Scotland’s fourth-largest city has enjoyed a new lease of life in recent years, in many ways thanks to the arrival of the V&A Dundee in 2018 – the first design museum in Scotland and the first Victoria and Albert museum outside of London . Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in a striking style evocative of Scotland’s coastal cliffs and Dundee’s nautical heritage, it has hosted fascinating exhibitions on all from tartan to video games and kimonos. Moreover, it has been a catalyst for a stylish regeneration of not just the city’s post-industrial waterfront, but its eating and drinking scene, its nightlife and its sense of cultural self-esteem. 

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Scotland’s North Highlands (Slow Travel)

Including Inverness

Publication Date:   07th Feb 2025

£ 16.99   £ 15.29

Northern Scotland Slow Travel guide. Expert local tips and holiday advice to the north Highlands, including Sutherland, Caithness and Ross-shire. Features Inverness, Easter Ross, the Black Isle, the east coast, Mackay Country, John O’Groats, Assynt, North Coast 500 (NC500) driving route and Wester Ross. Includes castles, lochs and mountains.

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Scotland’s North Highlands (Slow Travel) is the latest title in Bradt’s series of distinctive, widely acclaimed ‘Slow’ travel guides to local UK regions. Written by a northern Scotland specialist who edits the award-winning JRNY Travel Magazine, this guidebook provides greater detail than any other to the whole of northern Scotland – roaming far beyond the increasingly popular 516-mile North Coast 500 (NC500) driving route. Coupling a wide, personal selection of places to explore with focused advice on travel practicalities, Scotland’s North Highlands (Slow Travel) encourages visitors to adopt a leisurely approach designed to tease out the region’s many special qualities – and contribute positively to local communities.

In the far northern reaches of Scotland, Sutherland, Caithness and Ross-shire are regions that, by their very nature, demand to be taken slowly. Single-track roads dominate, skirting lochs and winding up and over moorland and mountains carpeted with blanket bog, settlements are few and far between, and you’ll often feel outnumbered by sheep as yet another flock ambles across a road leading to a crumbling castle, old fishing port or alluring ancient site. But biding your time is no inconvenience here, not when every corner reveals a yet more staggering view, when remote coastal cliffs throb with the cries of seabirds, or when following a sign down a potholed road leads to an empty cove of sand that shimmers pink and blue in the ever-changing Highlands light.

There are no large settlements here – the second-largest town has barely 1,500 inhabitants – so visitors focus very much on the outdoors. Getting into wilderness is joyously easy: within moments of parking your car or stepping out of your B&B, you’re striding among scenery so enchanting and dramatic it feels like it’s been conjured up by someone’s imagination. Whether you crave clambering over rocks to discover secret beaches, watching dolphins leap, kayaking to uninhabited islands or trekking to the UK’s highest waterfall, northern Scotland is the kind of place that gets its teeth into you – a place that people return to again and again. Just the place, indeed, for Bradt’s Scotland’s North Highlands to provide the perfect travelling companion.

About the Author

Emma Gibbs (emmagibbseditorial.com) is a freelance travel writer and editor, specialising in northern Scotland, and with a particular interest in Slow and sustainable travel. She is the author of North Coast 500: Britain’s Ultimate Road Trip (a best-selling, illustrated guide that identifies the 100 best places to visit along this touring route in northern Scotland) and i-SPY Scotland. She has written for The Guardian, The I, The Independent and Scotland Magazine, among others, for articles about northern Scotland that have seen her snorkelling in the North Sea, stargazing from a campervan, and (perhaps hardest of all) sampling local whisky and beer. Her first experience of the region was on the far north coast where – despite being repeatedly rained off the beaches and attempting a picnic during a sandstorm – the craggy coastline, quiet roads and brooding mountains led to her realising there was nowhere she’d rather be than the Scottish Highlands.

Additional Information

Chapter 1 Going Slow in Scotland’s North Highlands Chapter 2 Inverness, Easter Ross & the Black Isle Chapter 3 East Coast & Inland Sutherland Chapter 4 Caithness Chapter 5 Mackay Country Chapter 6 Assynt Chapter 7 North Wester Ross Chapter 8 South Wester Ross Appendix Accommodation Index