trip planner to scotland

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

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.

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.

Planning A Trip To Scotland – The Ultimate Guide

Categories Planning a trip to Scotland , Scotland , Scotland Guides

Are you planning a trip to Scotland for the first time? How exciting! My first trip to Scotland was so amazing, that I ended up moving to Edinburgh a few years later. I’ve combined my years of experience working as a travel agent, travelling the world, and living and exploring Scotland to put this guide together to help you plan your dream trip.

Table of Contents

In my Planning a Trip to Scotland Guide I’m spilling the beans on how I personally plan my trips around Scotland. I cover the best times to visit Scotland, the regions you can visit, how to book flights, accommodation and activities and what to pack.

I hope this guide is a great introduction to planning a trip to Scotland!

Planning a trip to Scotland

Hiking the Quiraing on Isle of Skye at sunrise

What is the best time to visit Scotland?

Anytime! It really just depends on what you want out of your trip to Scotland.

My favourite months for exploring Scotland are April and May . This is spring in Scotland when the weather is starting to get warmer and we have more daylight hours. Scotland’s nature is also in full bloom, and you can enjoy it with fewer tourists around before the busy summer months.

Scotland gets busier in June, July and August, and these are the busiest months for tourists. That being said, Edinburgh is really fun during August because five of the Edinburgh festivals are on. The streets are swarmed with people attending the festivities, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Bear in mind this may not be the best time for you to visit if you hate crowds, and accommodation prices also triple during August making Edinburgh an expensive option!

Kinlochbervie in the northwestern highlands in summer

I also love travelling around Scotland during September and October. The autumn colours are gorgeous and the weather is still warm (particularly in September). If you’re looking for autumn breaks in Scotland , I’ve written a guide on my favourite places to see the golden foliage.

Another thing to be aware of when you’re planning a trip to Scotland is that most attractions are only open from April to around mid-October. If you’re visiting outside this time, you may be unable to visit all the castles, palaces and other historical attractions you want to see. Make sure you check the opening dates on the websites of the places you’d like to visit. Historic Scotland and the National Trust For Scotland are two of the main organisations that look after Scotland’s ancient attractions and are a good place to check opening dates.

During winter in Scotland , there is very little daylight. The sun will usually rise at around 8.30am and it will be pitch black by 3-4 pm. Keep this in mind when planning your trip to Scotland- you will need to squeeze in a lot with short daylight hours.

Average temperature guide:

• Spring: 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F)
• Summer: 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F)
• Autumn/Fall: 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F)
• Winter: -5°C (23°F) to 11 °C (51.8°F)

Please note the above is a guide; Scotland has very changeable weather and we can sometimes get snow or 25°C (77°F) days in spring!

Times to avoid visiting Scotland

When planning a trip to Scotland it is best to visit outside our school holiday and public holiday periods. Scotland can be busy during these times! You can search school holiday dates for each region here and public and bank holidays here .

Read my complete guide: When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Plan a trip to Scotland in the spring or autumn for the pretty colours

Where should you visit in Scotland?

Are you a nature lover or city slicker? Are you adventurous or do you like a relaxing spa weekend? Do you prefer whisky distilleries and bustling pubs or going off the beaten path?

Scotland may be a small country, but each of her regions are unique and different. There is something for everyone in Scotland!

I’ve written an in-depth guide on the regions in Scotland – so make sure you give that a read. It will give you a good idea about what there is to do in each region, and what each region in Scotland is known for. I’ve also given my top accommodation recommendations for each region.

Here’s a brief overview of each region:

Join my Scotland Travel Tips Facebook group for help planning your trip -it’s free!

• Aberdeenshire & Moray – Aberdeenshire is home to some of Scotland’s most famous castles on The Castle Trail. Moray is also home to the Speyside whisky region and the Malt Whisky Trail. Read my posts on Aberdeenshire and Moray
• Argyll & the Isles – Known as ‘Scotland’s Adventure Coast’, this region is known for its cute seaside villages, delicious seafood, and the islands making up the Inner Hebrides. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in Scotland and a personal favourite! Read my posts on Argyll and the Isles
• Ayrshire & Arran – Ayrshire is home to rolling farmland and over 50 golf courses! Arran is known as ‘Scotland in miniature’ and is an island that offers a little bit of everything. Read my posts on Ayrshire and Arran.
• Dumfries & Galloway – D&G is home to Scotland’s largest Dark Sky Park, Scotland’s National Book Town and Gretna Green, the marriage capital of Scotland where English couples would elope during the 18th century. Read my posts on Dumfries and Galloway
• Dundee & Angus – Known for its outstanding glens, innovation in design, museums and Arbroath Smokies [smoked haddock].
• Edinburgh & the Lothians – Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and is known for its beautiful gothic architecture. This region is also home to Linlithgow in West Lothian, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots (I also call West Lothian home!) Read my posts on Edinburgh & the Lothians
• Fife – Nicknamed the ‘Kingdom of Fife’ by locals, Fife was once home to Scotland’s biggest cathedral, St Andrews Cathedral. Today it is known for its pretty fishing villages in the East Neuk of Fife and for being a popular Outlander filming location. Read my posts on Fife
• Glasgow & the Clyde Valley – Glasgow and The Clyde Valley is known for its parks and green spaces, colourful and quirky locals, entertaining nightlife and thriving music scene. Glasgow is a great city for foodies, shopping and a night out! Read my posts on Glasgow & the Clyde Valley
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park [and Stirlingshire] – Loch Lomond and The Trossachs is Scotland’s first national park and is the perfect place for a nature escape. Stirling is famous for the almost-impregnable Stirling Castle and the world’s largest equine sculpture, The Kelpies. Read my posts on Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
• Orkney & Shetland – Orkney is made up of more than 70 islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It’s home to a variety of 5000-year-old Neolithic sites, towering sandstone cliffs and seal colonies. Shetland is located even further north of Orkney and is known for its ancient standing stones, Iron Age brochs and Viking heritage. Read my posts on Orkney & Shetland
• Outer Hebrides – An archipelago chain of over 100 islands spanning 150 miles and surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, the Outer Hebrides are one of Europe’s last untouched natural habitats. It’s the perfect place in Scotland to get off the beaten path. Read my posts on the Outer Hebrides
• Perthshire – Perthshire is the colourful beating heart of Scotland made up of cosy villages, tranquil walking trails, and bubbling brooks. Perthshire is the best place to visit in Scotland during autumn! Read my posts on Perthshire
• Scottish Borders – In the Scottish Borders you will find rolling hills and farmland, ancient abbey ruins and Roman roads that were once walked regularly by Scottish and English armies. It’s a region filled with history, and is popular for hill walking and horse riding. Read my posts on the Scottish Borders
• Scottish Highlands – Home to misty mountains, enormous lochs, cosy cabins, craggy castles and rugged coastline- the Highlands is a playground for outdoor lovers. Combined with it’s romantic clan history, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Scotland. Read my posts on the Scottish Highlands
• Scottish Islands – The Scottish Islands are primarily located in the Western Isles, however, there are some located on the north and east coast of Scotland. Each island is special in its own way and you’ll find an abundance of unique culture, cuisine and friendly hospitality second to none. Read my posts on the Scottish Islands

Read more: 34 books about Scotland you’ll love

The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

Things to do in Scotland

There are SO many things to do in Scotland, but I won’t overwhelm you. If you have a week in Scotland, I recommend ticking the following off your bucket list:

• At least 1-2 castles
• A whisky distillery
• A traditional Scottish pub
• At least one city, one town and one village
• At least one island
• Go on 1-2 hikes
• Visit a loch
• Visit at least one place in Scotland off the beaten path

If you need inspiration or ideas on things to do in Scotland, you can read all my Scotland blog posts here .

I also recommend using the Historic Scotland and National Trust for Scotland websites to find interesting historic sites to visit!

Read more: 10 Must-Sees in Scotland You Can’t Miss

Hiking in the Northwestern Highlands

Booking flights to Scotland

The key to finding the cheapest and most direct flights is patience and knowing where to search. I predominantly use Skyscanner to search for flights, and I also check Google Flights .

This is my four step process for finding cheap flights:

First of all, I do a quick search in Skyscanner to get a rough idea of price and the different flight paths available.

I always search in Incognito mode. Most commercial websites use Cookies to keep track of what you are searching on their website. Let’s say you’re flying from San Francisco to Edinburgh and you search for these flights in Google Flights or Skyscanner; now that website knows you are planning a trip there. Do you think they’re going to show you the cheapest prices anymore? Nope!

If you search while in Incognito, however, you are able to browse the web without these Cookies tracking what flights you’re searching for, so you’ll always see the cheapest flights!

Once I have an idea of what airlines fly the route I am wanting to go, I get out a notepad and write down the different flight options I can think of. I will write down the closest airport to me, and any other large airports nearby. For example, if I’m searching for flights from California to Edinburgh the major airports I’d write down would be Los Angeles and San Francisco. I would then search flights departing Los Angeles to Edinburgh, and San Francisco to Edinburgh. I also do the same for my end destination. The major airports in Scotland are Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness- search for flights to all of these airports!

For example, the flights I would search would be something like this:

• Los Angeles to Edinburgh
• Los Angeles to Inverness
• Los Angeles to Glasgow
• San Francisco to Edinburgh
• San Francisco to Inverness
• San Francisco to Glasgow

If you do all of the above searches, you’ll eventually find the cheapest and most direct route. You could also try flying into an airport in London; flights to London are often cheaper than flying into Scotland. You could then spend a few days in London and catch the LNER train or fly to Edinburgh.

Please note you can only book trains 3 months in advance- but there are regular trains from London to Scotland.

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

Step 3 [optional]

You can even take the above a step further and add a stopover in halfway. Do a search and write down where airlines seem to stopover.

Most airlines tend to have stopovers in their ‘hub city’. For example, Air France’s hub city is- you guessed it, France. KLM is a Dutch airline so it will often stop in Amsterdam.

Using the KLM example, you could search for a flight from Los Angeles to Amsterdam, and then have a stopover here for a couple of nights, and then book a separate ticket from Amsterdam to Edinburgh. I did this when I moved to the UK from Canada, I booked two one-way tickets (Kelowna to Toronto with Canada Air, and Toronto to London with West Jet). Doing it this way saved me $300. Just ensure you allow plenty of layover time in between your flights [at least 8 hours or spend a couple of nights]. If your first flight is delayed and you miss your second flight, you may not get rebooked on another flight.

You will also need to weigh up the costs of accommodation and activities for your stopover too. When I fly long haul I like this process because it means I get to see another country and it’s cheaper than booking two separate trips!

Once I find a price I’m happy with, I search the exact flights directly with the airline. I always book direct with the airline now in case of any problems that arise. When you book via a third party, you have a whole other set of terms and conditions to adhere to. Cut out the middle man and book direct!

More helpful tips for booking flights

• Flights come out 9-10 months in advance. Flights are sometimes cheaper at this time.
• Sign up for airline email lists that fly to your destination so you are aware when they are having a sale.
• Aer Lingus is known for having cheap flights from America to Scotland (if that’s where you’re flying from).
• WestJet often has cheap flights from Canada to London.
• As soon as you book your flights, you should purchase your travel insurance in case the airline you are booking with collapses [for example when Thomas Cook went bankrupt in 2019, many people without travel insurance didn’t receive a refund- and don’t get me started on Covid!].
• For flights within Scotland [for example to the Orkney and Shetland] check the airline Loganair .

Read more: How to travel Scotland on a budget

Highlands dancers at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Edinburgh

Finding the best accommodation in Scotland

When looking for accommodation in Scotland I use Booking.com . I like Booking.com because they have a large range of accommodation and offer free cancellation. Once I find a place I’m happy with, I’ll also compare prices booking directly with the property to see which has the cheapest price.

If I’m looking for a self-catering property or a house, I use VRBO and Airbnb. When I’m travelling with a group, these websites are my go-tos.

In my experience, the cheapest and most reliable third-party platforms are Booking.com , VRBO and Airbnb.

For pods, eco-huts, glamping and luxury camping I recommend Canopy & Stars and Huts and Cabins .

Read more: The best hostels in Scotland

A Scottish mansion

Booking tours and attractions in Scotland

I book most of my tours and attractions with Get Your Guide .

Get Your Guide is great because once you’ve purchased your tickets and booked your tours you can download their app, and all your tickets are in one place. They have a QR code system in the app so when you arrive the tour operators just scan your phone. It’s also super easy to make bookings on your mobile phone via the app or on their website.

Read more: 50 Travel Tips For Scotland

They also have free cancellation up to 24 hours before your activity in case your plans change, and 24/7 customer service.

I also like Get Your Guide because ticket prices are the same as purchasing direct but you can keep all your tours and activities in one place on the app.

Passes that will save you money

If you’re planning on visiting castles, cathedrals, abbeys and other Scotland attractions you might save money with an Explorer Pass from Historic Scotland.

Historic Scotland has the 7-Day Explorer Pass . With this pass, you can visit over 70 attractions in Scotland! All days must be consecutive and the cost is £44 per adult.

Entry into Edinburgh Castle alone is £19.50 online (£22 at the gate) and Stirling Castle is £17.50 online (£19.50 at the gate)- so all you have to do is visit these two attractions, plus one other, to make it worth buying the Explorer Pass.

I have an annual Historic Scotland membership and I love it! With this pass, you can purchase it for an entire year or pay monthly. If you live overseas you can purchase this pass too- but you have to pay more for postage if you wish to receive the quarterly magazine.

👉 Buy the Explorer Pass

The National Trust for Scotland also has a similar annual membership, which I also have. It’s particularly useful if you’re visiting Aberdeenshire, as many of their castles are owned by the National Trust.

You can purchase this membership online . It’s important to note that they do not have a pass similar to the 7-day Explorer Pass, so you will have to purchase the annual membership.

You can also visit other National Trust sites nationwide – including the National Trust for England attractions, which has over 500 sites.

👉 Purchase a membership with the National Trust

Edinburgh Castle

Car hire in Scotland

It is worth hiring a car if you’re visiting Scotland- you’ll get to see so much more! There are over 2000 castles in Scotland, so you won’t need to drive far to discover ancient castle ruins (with many being free to visit).

There are also many scenic drives in Scotland, including the North Coast 500 – Scotland’s answer to Route 66!

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.

Read more: 11 tips for driving in Scotland for the first time

One thing to always check in the fine print is the excess. In the UK and Ireland, the excess can be expensive- so ensure you have that amount on your credit card, as it will be blocked off when you pick up your rental car.

Something else to consider is the cost of fuel. If you’re visiting Scotland from Canada or the USA, you may be disappointed with the fuel costs here. As I write this in 2024, the cost for petrol/gas is sitting at around £1.50 per litre ($1.89USD).

I’ve found fuel to be a little cheaper in the bigger cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. The cheapest place to buy fuel is usually at an ASDA or Morrisons supermarket (but please note not all stores have a fuelling station).

Other car hire companies in Scotland that I recommend include Celtic Legend and Arnold Clark Car Rental .

Don’t want to drive yourself around Scotland? My husband and I provide private driving tours in Scotland! We can take you on a day trip or multi-day tour departing Edinburgh. You can choose from our range of itineraries or we can take you wherever you want to go! Visit our website Kiwi and Haggis Tours for more information.

Motorhome hire in Scotland

Another popular way self-drive option is touring Scotland in a motorhome !

There are many fantastic campsites throughout Scotland, plus you can also wild camp in Scotland. Just be sure to follow the Outdoor Access Code , and dispose of your waste at a designated site if you plan on wild camping in a motorhome.

Driving the North Coast 500

Read more: The best bookshops in Scotland

Public transport in Scotland

Travel by train.

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

I always compare prices with Scotrail and Trainline to find the cheapest train tickets. For long journeys, I recommend purchasing your tickets online. For short train journeys (Edinburgh to Glasgow and travel within the central belt) you can purchase your tickets at the train station using the machines there.

Tickets for trains are available to book 12 weeks in advance.

Travel by Bus

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

Stagecoach and Scottish Citylink are other popular bus companies in Scotland.

Tickets for buses are available to book 12 weeks in advance.

Read more: 25 tips for sustainable travel in Scotland

Each region has their own local bus system. The bus companies in Edinburgh and Glasgow are fantastic- it’s my favourite way to travel around the cities. To explore Edinburgh by bus you can purchase an all-day ticket with Lothian Buses for £5. In Glasgow, you can get a day pass with First Buses for £5.60-£7.50.

Tickets can be purchased on board and most buses in cities accept contactless payments (tap or Apple Pay). In smaller towns and villages they may not accept contactless payments, so make sure you bring the correct change.

You can also explore Scotland’s cities on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus (HOHO). You can grab a 24-hour tour in Edinburgh , Glasgow and Inverness. These are useful because they usually stop outside the main attractions, so you can use it like a normal bus pass, plus you learn about the city’s history via the audio guide!

Get your tickets in advance 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Edinburgh 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Glasgow 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Inverness

The Hop-on, Hop-off bus is a great way to get to know Scotland’s cities

Packing for a trip to Scotland

I have written a complete blog post on what to pack for a trip to Scotland , so make sure you give that a read. Here are a few essentials I recommend you bring to Scotland:

• Shoes that are waterproof. I love my Timberlands ‘- they’re perfect for navigating cobblestone paths in small towns and cities.
• Rain jacket. My Rab rain jacket is a godsend- plus it’s flattering!
• A hat and gloves. I love my Barts beanie and these gloves .
• Lots of layers for the changeable weather.
• A warm-down jacket. I love my one from The North Face .
• For hiking, I recommend these Scarpa Terra hiking boots for women. They also have a men’s version .

You can find all of the above in my Amazon store. Here is my USA Amazon store and here is my UK Amazon store.

Packing for a hiking adventure in Scotland

Recommended Scotland itineraries

I’ve written several itineraries for travel in Scotland. My itineraries cover all the must-sees in Scotland, and I’ve also included many off-the-beaten-track experiences too!

If you’re planning on going to any of these areas, make sure you give these itineraries a try.

• How to spend 4 days in Scotland
• How to spend 10 days in Scotland
• How to spend 2 days in Edinburgh
• How to spend 2 days in Inverness
• How to spend 2 days on the Isle of Skye
• How to spend 1 day in St Andrews
• Things to do in Glencoe
• An itinerary for the North Coast 500

Everyone has a different travel style, so if you’d like a personalised itinerary made for you, I’d love to help! Just check out my itinerary planning services page for all the information.

Read more: Common questions about visiting Scotland answered

Exploring the castle ruin of Elcho Castle in Perthshire

Planning a trip to Scotland course

Need help planning your trip to Scotland?

I highly recommend signing up for my  Planning A Trip to Scotland Course . Created by myself and Lonely Planet writer Kay (The Chaotic Scot), the course includes 70+ short videos that walk you through planning your itinerary step-by-step!

This course will help you save time, stress, and money- and help you plan your perfect trip. Kay and I walk you through the exact process we use for planning our own trips around Scotland- including hiring a car and using public transport, finding things to do, travelling to the islands, the map-building technology that we use, travel etiquette, and SO much more.

👉 Get the Planning A Trip to Scotland Course

Helpful Links

Historic Scotland – to research any castles or historic spaces you’d like to visit, and to check opening dates National Trust For Scotland – to research any castles or historic spaces you’d like to visit, and to check opening dates Skyscanner – to find cheap flights and compare prices with different airlines Google Flights – another flight comparison website Booking.com – for booking accommodation VRBO – for booking accommodation Canopy & Stars – for glamping and luxury camping Huts and Cabins – pods, huts, glamping, and camping accommodation WalkHighlands – for information on hiking in Scotland with over 2000 hiking routes Auto Europe – car hire comparison website I use for hire in the UK Celtic Legend – car hire in Scotland Scotrail – main train network in Scotland and for checking train routes Trainline – it’s sometimes works out cheaper booking trains here Megabus UK – for cheap bus fares in Scotland and the UK

>> Did this guide help you? Don’t forget to sign up to my monthly newsletter about my adventures in Scotland!

PIN FOR LATER

Related posts

Saturday 30th of March 2024

Thank you for your blog post! Its been very helpful in planning my first solo trip. Visiting Scotland in June and coming from South Carolina in the U.S. It's VERY hot here in summer. Still going back and forth on what for June in Edinburgh. A good pair of sneakers or boots? Beanie and gloves? Rainjacket and light sweaters ordered?

Sunday 18th of February 2024

Fabulous email! Thanks for all the info!

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

Hi! I am planning a trip to Scotland in September. This will not only be my first time to Scotland, but also my first time out of the United States! Thank you so much for this; it has been so helpful! I did have a question as far as spending money there. I plan on paying ahead of time for some attractions with the links you provided. But as far as restaurants, bars, and shopping, do most places accept credit cards? Will I need a lot of cash on me, that I'll need to switch over from US dollars?

Friday 27th of January 2023

Great site, so useful! I'm combining this with London/SW England. Do you have a good blogger to suggest for that area? Thanks

Chuck Schall

Friday 11th of November 2022

My wife and I are planning a trip to Scotland in early June. We are interested in hiring a driver/guide instead of driving ourselves. Do you have any recommendations?

Yvette Webster

I highly recommend Tom from Photo Walk Scotland - I've been on a few tous with him and he is fantastic! He can do day tours and multi-day tours. He has a degree in Scottish History too, so a very interesting chap! Plus if you mention that I referred you, he will give you 15% off too. His website is https://www.photowalkscotland.com/

Planning A Trip To Scotland – The Ultimate Guide

Now you’re thinking of discovering Scotland – excellent idea! With its rugged landscapes, mystical castles, rich history and friendly people, Scotland is a destination that is attracting more and more travellers. But preparing for your Scottish adventure requires some key information, and our local advisors are here to guide you and answer any questions you may have! Off you go!

When should you leave for Scotland?

Inevitably, this is a question you ask yourself very quickly before booking your holiday… The best time to go to Scotland depends on your preferences:

-If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful countryside, spring and autumn are ideal.

-If you’re looking for cultural excitement and long days, opt for summer.

-If you enjoy winter landscapes and festivities, winter is the season for you.

For more details, read our articles When to go to Scotland and Climate in Scotland.

When should you plan your trip?

Plan ahead! That’s the key word here, because Scotland is a destination with the wind in its sails. Anticipating by booking early is the best way to get the best accommodation, the best rooms, the best rates on activities and to be sure of having availability for car hire.

-For a July or August departure, we recommend booking no later than March and ideally, where possible, from the previous September.

-For a departure in May or June , we recommend booking no later than March and ideally, where possible, as early as January.

-For a departure from January to April or from September to December , it is less important to plan ahead, and booking a month in advance is conceivable (except during the end-of-year festive period).

Should you organise your trip yourself or go through an agency?

It depends on your profile, your desires and your constraints. Here are some of the main reasons to use a local travel agency:

1. You don’t want to miss your trip

A local agency has intrinsic expertise in places, seasonal events and places less frequented by mass tourism. It will be able to guide you to hidden gems that most tourist guides don’t mention.

2. A tailor-made trip that’s just like you

Rather than following a standard itinerary, a local agency will listen to you to understand who you are, what you like and dislike, and what you are looking for in a trip, so as to create a tailor-made trip based on your interests.

3. You want to save time:

Organising a trip can be time-consuming. A local agency takes care of bookings, itineraries and logistics, so you can relax and look forward to your next adventure.

4. Access to exclusive activities/services

Local agencies like ours often have close relationships with hotels, restaurants and activity providers, which can result in exclusive experiences, upgrades or travel benefits.

5. Local assistance:

In the event of a problem, emergency or simply a question, it’s reassuring to know that you have a local contact you can rely on, who speaks the language and knows the particularities of the region.

6. Positive economic impact:

By choosing a local agency, you directly support the country’s economy, creating a more sustainable and responsible form of tourism.

Local agencies are often better informed about local conditions, whether it’s the weather, roads or events. They can therefore guide you safely throughout your trip.

8. Authenticity:

Instead of a standardised experience, a local travel agency immerses you in the heart of Scottish culture, allowing you to experience and feel Scotland authentically.

9. Practical advice:

From recommendations on the best times to visit certain sites, to tips on how to avoid crowds or take advantage of local festivities, a local agency is a mine of practical information.

10. Peace of mind:

Knowing that every detail of your trip has been meticulously planned by a local expert gives you invaluable peace of mind, allowing you to make the most of every moment.

How long should I allow for a trip to Scotland?

You’ve decided on the period of your trip, and now you’re wondering how long you should allow to discover Scotland. Once again, it all depends on what you want to discover. From a few days to several weeks, each duration has its own charm. But in our opinion, a trip worthy of the name requires at least 8 days.

For a quick overview: 3 to 5 days

If you don’t have much time, concentrate on a few highlights. Edinburgh, the capital, deserves at least two days for its iconic sights such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat. Add a day to escape into the countryside and discover the Borders or Loch Lomond and the Trossachs: a very short break, but one that will give you a tantalising glimpse of what Scotland has to offer. Another very interesting option is to head for the Isle of Arran, known for being a condensed version of what Scotland has to offer. Check out our 3 to 5-day tour ideas.

For longer exploration: 7 to 10 days

This length of time allows you to add destinations such as Glasgow, the Isle of Skye, Harris and Lewis, the Cairngorms and, of course, a few whisky distilleries. You’ll have time to experience Scotland in greater depth, visit less touristy sites and soak up the local culture. But that’s not enough to do the whole tour! Check out our ideas for 7- to 10-day tours.

For complete immersion: 2 to 3 weeks

If you’re lucky enough to have two to three weeks, Scotland is yours! In addition to the destinations mentioned above, explore the Orkney Islands, visit the deserted beaches of the Outer Hebrides and take in the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms. You’ll also have time to attend local festivals, discover Scottish cuisine and meet the locals. Check out our ideas for 2 to 3 week tours.

Follow the local rhythm: Scotland is a country where you can relax, take your time, enjoy the scenery and spend time with the locals. Don’t try to see everything, but rather live each experience to the full.

Classic itineraries:

-3 days: Edinburgh or Glasgow, and surrounding areas: Loch Lomond or the Borders region

-8 days: Edinburgh and/or Glasgow, Fort William and the Highlands.

-10 days: Add the Isle of Skye to the 8-day itinerary.

-15 days: Head for the Isle of Skye or Harris and Lewis, or explore the North Coast 500.

-21 days: Explore the Highlands, Orkney, Shetland and the Hebrides in depth.

How much should you budget?

Unless money isn’t an issue for you (which we hope it isn’t), preparing for a trip will require some financial planning. So how much should you budget for a Scottish holiday? Here’s an overview of the costs to anticipate.

Transport :

Plane: Depending on your point of departure and the season, a return flight to Scotland can vary greatly. To get the best rates, book in advance and be flexible about your dates. From Paris to Glasgow or Edinburgh, return flights in low season (October to April) average between £100 and £200. In high season (May to September), a return flight can cost up to £400.

Train: a return train ticket from Paris to Edinburgh will cost you on average between £100 and £400, depending on the season and how far in advance you travel.

Internal transport: If you plan to hire a car, expect to pay between £50 and £100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle. Don’t forget fuel and insurance. Otherwise, the train and bus network is excellent, although fares can rise during the high season.

Accommodation :

Youth hostels: Around £20 to £30 per night in a dormitory.

Comfortable Bed & Breakfasts: Between £100 and £140 per night for a double room, often with a full Scottish breakfast.

Hotels : Rates start at 80 euros and can reach several hundred euros for top-of-the-range establishments.

Meals: A meal in an average pub or restaurant costs between £25 and £35. Gourmet restaurants are obviously more expensive.

Drinks: A pint of beer costs an average of £5, and a whisky tasting starts at £10.

Activities :

Entrance to castles and attractions: Prices vary, but expect to pay between 10 and 20 euros for most sites. Consider the Explorer Pass if you plan to visit several historic sites.

Miscellaneous:

Souvenirs: Tartan, cashmere, whisky, shortbread and other typical souvenirs can add to your budget. Define how much you want to spend on these purchases to avoid impulse spending.

Gratuities: Gratuities are not compulsory in Scotland, but are appreciated for good service.

Tips for saving money :

Travel out of season: By avoiding the high season (summer), you can take advantage of reduced accommodation and transport fares.

Eat like a local: Pubs and fish and chips are often more affordable, but for gourmets, bear in mind that fish and seafood are delicious and that Scottish gastronomy is much richer and more surprising than you might think. For more information on local gastronomy, see our dedicated article.

Opt for free activities: access to nature is free, so make the most of it!

In conclusion, the question of budget for a trip to Scotland will depend on your choices and your style of travel. Whether it’s a budget trip or a luxury break, Scotland offers a range of options to suit all budgets. Plan ahead, set your priorities and make the most of every moment in this magical country!

How do I get there?

Most travellers arrive at Edinburgh or Glasgow airports. Ferries are also available from Ireland and mainland Europe. Trains have recently become popular, with journeys from Paris taking between 7.30 and 9.30 hours and tickets costing around £350. Once you’re in Scotland, there are a number of scenic train routes to take you to different parts of the country and enjoy the scenery. Discover our ideas for train holidays: the Highlands by train.

What should you pack?

Pack warm, waterproof clothing, a pair of good walking shoes and electrical adaptors. Here’s a list of 10 essentials to pack for a trip to Scotland, taking into account the country’s fickle weather and popular activities:

-Waterproof clothing: A waterproof jacket and trousers will be essential. Rain can come at any time of year in Scotland.

-A good pair of walking shoes: Whether you’re exploring the cities or hiking in the Highlands, comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must.

-Scarf, hat and gloves: Even in summer, the weather can be chilly, especially in the mountains or on the coast.

-Electrical adapter: Scotland uses UK-style plugs, so make sure you have an adapter to charge your devices.

-Bug spray: Particularly if you’re visiting during the summer months, these little insects can be a nuisance, especially in the Highlands. (How to avoid them)

-Layers of clothing: Given the changeable weather, favour the layering system to add or remove layers depending on the temperature.

-Daypack: To carry your essentials when out and about, whether in town or on a hike.

-Camera and binoculars: You’ll want to capture the stunning scenery and perhaps observe wildlife from a distance.

-Travel guide or map: Even in the digital age, having a physical guide or map can be useful, especially in areas where the signal is weak.

-Sun protection: Yes, even in Scotland! When the sun is shining, especially at high altitudes or near water, it’s important to protect yourself.

With these essentials in hand, you’ll be well prepared to make the most of your trip! And for a trouble-free trip, leave with peace of mind by entrusting the organisation of your trip to our specialist advisers.

How do I hire a car in Scotland?

It’s best to book in advance. Make sure you have an international permit if necessary. There are many car hire companies, the best known being Arnold Clark and Avis.

What are the different types of accommodation in Scotland?

B&Bs, hotels, hostels, gîtes, campsites and bothies.

The choice of accommodation plays a crucial role. Here’s an overview of the different options available to help you find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Hotels :

From luxury hotels to simple family-run establishments, Scotland offers a wide range of hotels. In major cities such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, you’ll find international chain hotels, as well as charming boutique hotels set in historic buildings.

2. Bed & Breakfast (B&B):

One of the most traditional forms of accommodation in Scotland, B&Bs offer a more personal experience. Often run by families, they offer comfortable rooms and a full Scottish breakfast to get the day off to a good start.

3. Youth hostels:

Perfect for travellers on a budget or those looking for a social atmosphere, youth hostels are plentiful, especially in tourist areas. They generally offer dormitories, but sometimes also private rooms.

4. Holiday rentals :

If you’re planning a longer stay or travelling in a group, renting a house or flat can be a sensible option. It also gives you the freedom to cook and live at your own pace.

5. Bothies :

These traditional mountain huts, often in remote locations, offer basic shelter for hikers. They are usually free, but expect very basic facilities and remember to respect the code of use for bothies.

6. Camping and caravanning:

For those who like to sleep under the stars, Scotland has many well-equipped campsites. What’s more, the “right to roam” often allows wild camping, as long as you follow the Scottish countryside code.

7. Unusual accommodation :

For a truly unique experience, why not sleep in a castle, an old prison, a lighthouse or even a tree house? Scotland is full of unusual accommodation to make your stay memorable.

8. Self-catering cottages:

Located in the countryside or small villages, these cottages offer a peaceful setting, often with a traditional touch. They’re the perfect option for a rural escape.

Tips for choosing your accommodation :

Plan ahead: popular accommodation, especially in high season, can be booked months in advance. Our advisors are in direct daily contact with hotels and B&Bs, so take advantage of their expertise!

Trust our local advisers: they travel the country all year round and know the best accommodation to recommend and the worst to avoid! 

[email protected]

1-888-810-0045

+44 (0)141 432 1770

How to Plan a Trip to Scotland: Advice from Local Travel Experts

19 Apr, 2021

If you’re reading this, you are probably ready to plan a trip to Scotland but still in your research phase to figure out where to go, what to do, what you shouldn’t miss, and so much more.

As experts in all things Scotland travel, we love to help visitors craft their dream itinerary. Maybe you love the history and heritage of Scotland. Perhaps it’s the natural, rugged beauty or our cultural charms. There is much to appreciate during a trip to Scotland.

While you’re likely already convinced that Scotland is the best destination for your next trip, we thought we’d share a few of our favourite reasons for visiting Scotland. Just in case you’re still thinking of other destinations instead!

Why Plan a Trip to Scotland

People from all over the globe visit Scotland for its incomparable natural beauty, its rich history, and its ancient castles and structures. In fact, Scotland is regularly voted the most beautiful country in the world , beating the likes of Iceland, New Zealand, and Canada to the top spot.

In a land where people have left their mark for thousands of years, history buffs and culture connoisseurs will adore Scotland.

Stand amidst the ruins of an ancient castle. Look up at the standing stones of a circle built millennia ago. You will feel the weight of time and admire the sheer scale of Scotland’s extraordinary past.

Of course, not all our castles are in ruins! In fact, you can explore countless beautiful structures today. Some are still personal homes that can only be appreciated from the outside. Meanwhile, others are open to the public to enjoy the wealth and beauty of such grandeur.

You can even stay in many castles dotted around the country! We’re quite fond of a few and recommend them to our guests.

Scotland is also known for golf, whisky, island hopping, the Scottish Highlands, and fantastic festivals and celebrations recognised around the world.

This bonnie country offers too many treasures to count, which makes it impossible to see everything in one trip to Scotland! But at Inspiring Travel Scotland, would like to at least help you begin to plan a dream trip to Scotland.

Let’s dive into some Scotland trip planning details.

Let an Expert Plan Your Trip to Scotland

You can, of course, plan a trip to Scotland on your own, using the wealth of information available online and ample tools and apps to guide your way. But there are many reasons why people prefer to rely on Inspiring Travel Scotland when it comes to planning that special dream trip.

As local experts who live in and love Scotland, we hold vast knowledge and unparalleled insight into the country and its offerings.

Whilst you could spend whole days and even weeks researching and planning, we already know it all. Our expertise can help you sort out where to go and what to do.

And we also how to get there with the best views or avoiding the rough roads…perhaps even helping you to spot some local wildlife!

Our insights can point you toward luxury, personalised service and the most exceptional Scottish handcrafted gifts for you to take home.

We know these places and people because these are our neighbours and our communities. For visitors to truly experience Scotland at her best, there is nothing that can compare to local insight and expertise in trip planning.

That’s why we offer customised Scotland tours that allow guests to tell us in advance exactly what they’re looking for from their big Scottish adventure. This allows us to create the perfect tailormade tour for each guest.

You simply can’t see everything there is to see in Scotland in 7, 14, or even 21 days. But, with help from the experts, you can certainly enjoy some of your bucket list spots plus plenty more you didn’t even know to add to your list!

When you let the local experts plan a trip to Scotland with your dreams and interests in mind, it will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.

Planning a road trip around Scotland?

Another reason why many people ask Inspiring Travel Scotland to plan their Scotland trip is that driving on the left side of the road feels confusing and intimidating for them.

If you allow us to take care of your tour, we will provide you with an expert tour guide who also serves as your personal driver, taking you everywhere you want to go!

Planning a Scotland road trip is iconic and highly recommended. But taking a trip that is stressful or challenging isn’t an ideal holiday. Let a local expert handle the navigation, narrow lanes, and left-side manual driving whilst you take in the vistas.

It’s especially helpful if you want to sample our local whisky en route, without worrying about being a designated driver. If this is your dream trip to Scotland, then it should be as easy and enjoyable as possible!

What to Pack for a Scotland Trip

Scotland might not be a huge country, but it has vastly different landscapes, cities, and towns to explore. Whilst there is no universal list of ideal items you should pack for your trip to Scotland, there are advisable items regardless of your travel style.

Although no two trips are the same, we recommend that most people visiting Scotland make sure to bring the following:

Good Walking Boots

Whether you intend to bag a munro or simply stroll around a glistening loch, good walking boots are usually a must for any Scotland trip.

So much of what makes Scotland special is its natural landscapes, so you’ll want to get out in nature and walk around. Good walking boots that have been worn in and are comfortable can make your trip so much more enjoyable. Keep your feet dry and your nice shoes clean!

Waterproof Clothing

Just as essential as walking boots is waterproof clothing. Scotland isn’t exactly known for its sunny weather. Scotland is just as rainy as you expect, but that adds to its sense of rugged charm.

However, despite the rain, our weather is only very rarely dangerous. We don’t get hurricanes, tornados, or other environmental disasters, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Having a good waterproof jacket will keep you dry and warm, regardless of the time of year you visit Scotland.

At Least One Fancy Outfit!

Scotland has many fine dining establishments, whisky bars, and sophisticated cocktail bars. There’s also a good chance you’ll attend a ceilidh (a Scottish dance) on your visit!

Packing at least one fancier outfit will serve you well and give you greater options for a special night out during your dream trip to Scotland.

Cell Phone (& Charger & Converter)

Do bring your phone for photos, memories, consulting a map, and everything else we use our phones for these days! But don’t forget your charger and a converter, if necessary.

It’s also a good idea to set up (if you don’t use it already) Apple Pay or Google Pay. This allows you to purchase items using a contactless method, which is prevalent in Scotland.

Warm and Cool Clothing

Scotland is not extremely warm nor cold in comparison to many other countries. But how cold or hot it feels completely depends on your own personal tolerances.

In Scotland, the average winter temperature is 32°F (0°C). The average summer temperature is 59°F (15°C), which isn’t as warm as many places in summer. Tank tops and sandals may feel like typical summer attire to you, but you’ll want a jumper and proper shoes at all times of year in Scotland.

The average spring temperature is 50°F (10°C) and the average autumn/fall temperature is 52°F (11°C). So you’ll see our climate stays quite mild year-round.

Layers are always a good idea when packing for a trip to Scotland.

You can take a look at our guide to seasons and weather in Scotland to get some additional insights.

Choosing Where to Go in Scotland

There is so much to see and do on a trip to Scotland! That’s why it’s important that you do a little research and think about which places you have to see. That will help ensure you fill your Scotland trip with all of the best bits!

If you love nature above everything else, then you should certainly plan a trip to the Scottish Highlands. Get inspired to plan your trip with our guide to the Scottish Highlands .

The Highlands are incredible, but so are many of the Scottish islands! You’ll also want to peruse our guide to the Scottish Islands to see if any of these destinations piques your interest.

Are whisky tastings and distillery tours number one on your list? Start with our guide to Scotland’s Whisky and Distilleries to get inspired!

Perhaps you care more about visiting cities to enjoy the history and architecture. Don’t worry…Scotland has so much to offer you!

You’ll surely enjoy visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Stirling, all of which can be found in the Scottish Lowlands. You can get some ideas from our suggestions of things to do in Edinburgh and things to do in Glasgow to get started with your planning.

Add Castles to Your Scotland Trip Planning!

In Scotland, you can expect to find some of the most impressive castles in the world. But there are also a lot of art galleries, museums, and historical walking tours to satisfy your appetite for grandeur!

From Edinburgh to Stirling, from the Borders to the Highlands, Scotland boasts castles of all shapes and sizes. You should take a look at our guide to castles in Scotland to get inspiration for which ones to visit during your trip to Scotland.

If you’re truly ready to plan a dream trip to Scotland, we would love to help you. Let’s craft it together based on your interests and preferences so you maximise your time whilst enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

Simply get in touch to get started. Scotland is an amazing country with so much to offer, and we can’t wait for you to visit!

This post was originally published in November 2019 and updated in April 2021.

Tailor Made Customised Tours

CONTACT US TO CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE TOUR OF SCOTLAND

• Essential Scotland – Highlands History, Scenery & Culture
• Scottish Outlander Tour
• Scottish North Coast 500 and Culloden Tour
• Scottish Whisky and Culture – The Exclusive Tour
• Two Cities & Outlander Tour
• Whisky Trail by Luxury Train
• The Outlaw King Tour
• Luxury Staycation – Scottish Highlands Tour
• Tailormade – Customized Tours
• Be Inspired
• Why book with us?
• How to Book
• Testimonials

Tell us a little about what you would like to do on your ideal tour:

Number of Adults 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Number of Seniors (over 60) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Number of Children 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Date you would like tour to begin

Tour Duration

Phone number (Including area codes)

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

One Week in Scotland

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

This seven-day Scotland touring itinerary has something for everyone, whether you're an urban connoisseur or a wilderness fan. Historic castles, legendary outlaws, and mythical sea monsters all vie for your attention. So does the seafood, fished from cold North Sea waters, as well as the water of life—more commonly known as Scotch whisky. Any short visit to Scotland is bound to leave you hungry for more.

This driving itinerary is organized day by day rather than hour by hour. It's meant to give you a good overview while providing enough freedom to allow you to pick and choose without losing the plot. As long as you end up in the suggested destination at the end of each day, you should have plenty of time to discover what makes Scotland special and especially loved by visitors.

Day 1: Edinburgh

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Morning: Start your day in Edinburgh early, with a hearty Scottish breakfast at your hotel. Edinburgh is a very hilly city and you want to stoke up on carbs for all the walking. Don't pass up the oatmeal that's usually included in a Scottish breakfast. The pinch of salt they add makes it very special.

Then head for the bottom of The Royal Mile ; starting at The Palace of Holyrood House, this street climbs through Old Town and ends at Edinburgh Castle. Though most people walk down the Royal Mile, we think it works better in the opposite direction when you still have lots of energy.

The Palace of Holyrood House , the Monarch's official residence when she is in Scotland, is only partially open to the public. The self-guided audio tour will take you an hour or less.

Across the street, you'll find the Scottish Parliament. Controversial (it cost more than $506 million after an original proposal of $12 million) and architecturally interesting, you can see the key areas in about 15 minutes.

Afternoon: The Inn on the Mile is a handy place to stop for lunch, and is about three-quarters of the way up the Royal Mile .

When you're done eating, climb up to Edinburgh Castle for the spectacular views at the top. Unless you are fascinated by military history, skip the museums and exhibits; instead, walk down through Princes Street Gardens to the Scottish National Gallery on the Mound.

Evening: Sample any one of more than 300 brands of scotch whisky at the Bow Bar on West Bow in the Old Town. Then head for an early supper at Edinburgh's famous Italian deli, Valvona & Crolla , or a casual pizza at the popular La Favorita. If jet lag is starting to set in, order online and they'll deliver to your hotel room.

Day 2: Scotts View, Abbotsford, and Traquair

 Michelle Kelley Photography/Getty Images

Morning: Head out of the city and south into the Borders, a county punctuated by the meandering River Tweed and rich in history and literary connections. On your way, take a few minutes to stop at Scott's View . A favorite of novelist, playwright, and poet Sir Walter Scott, this spot gives you stunning views of the Eildon Hills , three distinctive volcanic plugs, and the Tweed Valley. There's a small parking area with an orientation table a historic marker.

Afterwards, pay a visit to Melrose Abbey . Built in the 12 th century, the abbey is believed to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart . There is a memorial stone marking the spot.

Make your way to Abbotsford House next. Sir Walter Scott almost bankrupted himself building this remarkable faux-medieval fantasy palace surrounded by beautiful gardens on the Tweed. After his death in 1832, the house immediately became a place of literary pilgrimage. It has been open to the public since 1833. Stop for lunch at Abbotsford before moving on to Traquair.

Afternoon: Traquair House is the oldest continuously inhabited house in Scotland and has been in the same family for 900 years. It is a fascinating place, connected to stories of political intrigue, Jacobites, secret Catholics, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Mary Queen of Scots. You can even sample a bevy from Traquair's own brewery. The house and grounds can be visited daily between April and the end of October, and weekends only in November.

Evening: Return to Edinburgh and enjoy some fine dining in Leith, the city's waterfront district. Try The Kitchin or Restaurant Martin Wishart , both owned by celebrity chefs and spangled with Michelin stars. Book either online before you leave home.

Day 3: The Forth Bridges, Falkirk Wheel and Stirling Castle

Morning: It's just a 15-mile drive from Edinburgh to the Forth Bridges . When the first one opened at Queensferry in 1890, it was the world's biggest man-made steel structure and a marvel of Victorian engineering. About nine miles from Edinburgh, the historic railroad bridge is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, joined by two other remarkable bridges. When the Forth Road Bridge opened in 1964, it was the largest long-span suspension bridge outside the U.S. The Queensferry Crossing opened in 2017 and is the longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world. There's a terrific viewpoint to see all three at Hawes Pier in Queensferry.

The Falkirk Wheel is the world's only rotating boat lift. It raises and lowers boats and their passengers—to a height of 115 feet—between the Forth&Clyde and Union Canals. Book ahead on the website and you can take a 50-minute ride on it. Have some lunch at the visitor center before moving on.

Afternoon: Plan on spending the whole afternoon at and around Stirling Castle , about 13 miles away. Sitting on top of an impressive volcanic rock and protected on one side by dramatic cliffs, the castle has long remained a symbol of Scottish independence with its strong connections to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and Mary Queen of Scots. It was first mentioned in 1110 when King Alexander built a chapel there, but in all likelihood it is much older. There are a range of guided and self-guided audio tours you can take to see the royal palace's great halls and kitchens, chapel, and regimental museum. From the castle walls, you can see Stirling Bridge, the site of William Wallace's 13 th -century victory over the English.

Just below the castle is Stirling Old Town . It is a virtually intact Medieval town and you should plan on spending some daylight hours walking around it.

Evening: Have dinner and spend the night in Stirling. There's a good selection of hotels and plenty of casual bistros, cafés, and pubs.

Day 4: The Cairngorms, Urquhart Castle, and Loch Ness

Morning: Fill up on fuel and water before leaving Stirling; you'll be passing through some of the emptiest areas and highest plateaus of Cairngorm National Park . First stop: Balmoral , the Queen's private vacation home. Built by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, the Scottish Baronial estate is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and mountain views. You can only visit a small part of the house, but there is usually an interesting exhibition to see. The house is closed to the public when the Queen and the royals are in residence, from August through October. Tickets need to be booked in advance.

Note: If you're in the area when the Queen is in residence, visit Blair Castle on the Blair Atholl estate or Braemar Castle instead.

Afternoon: Heading north on a curving route from Balmoral, you'll enter an area that has recently been dubbed the SnowRoads . It includes the highest public road in Britain and the highest public road mountain pass. The scenery, though lonely and empty, is also spectacular. In the northwest corner of the Cairngorms is Speyside, one of Scotland's most important whisky-making areas. Stop in the little market town of Tomintoul to pick up a bottle or two for later.

Now's your chance to look for the Loch Ness Monster. Urquhart Castle offers a high vantage point over Loch Ness. Even though it's a ruin, the location makes this one of the best castles in Scotland.

Evening: End your day by driving to Invermoriston Falls, a spectacular series of rapids and waterfalls crossed via a historic, pedestrian-only 19 th -century bridge . The Glenmoriston Arms Hotel, across the parking lot for the falls, has decent food, traditional music, and comfortable beds.

Day 5: Eilean Donan and Glencoe

Morning: Leave Invermoriston for Eilean Donan Castle , probably the most quintessential image of an early medieval Scottish fortress. The drive there is unforgettable; you'll pass forbidding dark lochs through valleys of brooding mountains.

Originally built as a fortress to defend the mainland from the Vikings, Eilean Donan was destroyed in the  Jacobite rebellion of 1719 . It was rebuilt between 1911 and 1932 from surviving ground plans of earlier buildings. The castle occupies an island at the confluence of three great sea lochs, but you can reach it on foot via a stone bridge. Eilean Donan's re-enactors make this a fun visit.

Afterwards, drive over to Fort William , often called the gateway to the Highlands. The town—located underneath the shadow of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis—is a handy place to stop for lunch. There are plenty of quick food outlets and fish and chip shops, but if you're feeling adventurous, hop on a gondola for a mountain lunch at the Snowgoose Restaurant .

Afternoon: Glencoe is one of the most important landscapes in Britain and no visit to the Western Highlands would be complete without. Be sure to check out the  eco-friendly visitor center . Here you can start a short nature and wildlife walk on the edge of the glen, find out more about the epic adventure trails, and immerse yourself in the sad history of betrayal and murder that still haunts this valley.

Evening: In the nearby village of  Ballachulish , you'll find a range of accommodation, from hotels and guest houses to campsites. There are places to eat within a short distance of the visitor center as well.

Day 6: A Scenic Drive and a Loch Lomond Cruise

 Dennis Barnes/Getty Images

Morning: Take the short, scenic drive through Glencoe to the green, romantic hills of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park . It's an easy, quiet road, but take your time and stop whenever you see a place to pull over; the scenery is spectacular and the geology that formed it astonishing.

When you reach Loch Lomond, continue down its west bank to Tarbet or all the way to Balloch on the southern shore. Tarbet is a quiet village near a narrow part of the loch, with good tourist services and access to some fabulous cycling. Balloch is the main commercial tourism center for Loch Lomond. What you do for the rest of the day depends on how active you like to be.

Active Afternoon Itinerary: If you want to see as much as possible, head over to Tarbet and park in the public parking area near Tarbet Pier. After you explore the village, hire a bike from Cruise Loch Lomond . You can take the bike with you on the Waterbus to Inversnaid; from here, ride the four miles along the north shore of Loch Arklet to Stronachlachar.

At Stronachlachar Pier, board the Steamship Sir Walter Scott for a round trip cruise on Loch Katrine. When it's over, cycle back to Inversnaid and return to Tarbet Pier on the water taxi. Then make your way to Balloch for the night.

Relaxed Afternoon Itinerary: Want to take it much slower? Instead of going to Tarbet, drive to Balloch and climb aboard the " PS Maid of the Loch ," the last paddle steamer built in Britain. Afterwards, grab some souvenirs at Loch Lomond Shores, a nearby shopping center.

Take the Waterbus from Balloch Pier to Luss, a conservation village on the west bank of Loch Lomond. Most of the cottages in in this flower-bedecked village date from the 18 th and early 19 th centuries. There are several marked circuits ranging from an easy, 15-minute walk around the village to an hour-long Heritage trail.

Walk to the end of Luss Pier for good views of Ben Lomond. From Luss, you can take a short Waterbus trip to Inchcailloch, a secluded island just offshore with several good paths. Return to Luss, and from there, back to Balloch for the evening.

Day 7: Glasgow

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Morning: It's a mere 20 miles from Balloch to Glasgow, Scotland's liveliest city. When you reach the city, tour the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum . It's a huge late Victorian storehouse, featuring everything from Scottish and European paintings to dinosaur skeletons and stuffed animals. Don't miss Salvador Dali's remarkable "Christ of Saint John of the Cross," one of the museum's great treasures.

When you're done exploring the museum, check out Kelvinbridge. This part of Glasgow's already trendy "west end" (so hip the name is never capitalized) was recently voted one of the 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world. Shop for vintage and retro fashions, and buy a takeaway picnic at Roots, Fruits and Flowers —Glasgow's local answer to Whole Foods.

Afternoon: Climb the hill of Kelvingrove park—one of Glasgow's gorgeous green spaces—and enjoy your picnic there. Then check out the City Center Mural Trail . Made up of 25 murals, this trail of outrageous street art is all within an easy stroll of the city center.

Have your mind blown by an afternoon show at Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre . A permanent exhibition by a Russian emigré artist, this indescribable production combines kinetic sculpture, automata, music, and lighting effects.

Evening: Make your last meal in Scotland a good one. Dine in Finneston, the hub of Glasgow's somewhat macho foodie scene. Try The Finnieston , known for its top seafood and gin bar. Or chow down on amazing dry-aged beef and game at Porter & Rye.

Glasgow's nightlife is famous. For comedy, take your chances at The Stand . See new and emerging bands at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut or downstairs at Òran Mór, a multi-arts venue that also hosts comedy and theatre.

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

Top 10 Castles to Visit in Scotland

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park: The Complete Guide

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

48 Hours in Edinburgh: The Ultimate Itinerary

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

Top 10 Great Scenic Drives in Britain

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The Top 20 Things to Do in Edinburgh

A Complete Guide to Every National Park in the UK

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• National Parks
• Affording Travel
• Photography
• Responsible Travel
• Worldschool
• Wanderlust Guides
• Travel Planning
• Work with Us

Europe , Scotland , Travel

Perfect scotland itinerary.

Scotland is an Incredible, Wild, Historic, Mystical Country that Just Begs to be Visited. If Scotland is Calling you, I’ve got the Perfect Scotland Itinerary for You.

The perfect scotland itinerary – discover the best things to do in scotland on this incredible road trip.

This post contains affiliate links

You’re Going to Scotland!!!

So you’ve been bitten by the “Scotland Bug” and you’re ready to plan your trip! Great choice! Scotland is an incredible country with a deep, rich history, culture, and loads of whisky distilleries! You’ll be able to see hundreds of historic sites, abbeys , castles, sheep, highland cows, and even more stunning scenery. Although a relatively small country, there are so many places to see in Scotland, that it can seem overwhelming. But fear not, I have broken down this Scotland itinerary into seven days of pure Scottish awesomeness! If you’re wondering what to see in Scotland, but feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Half the fun of visiting somewhere new is planning what you’ll see, do, eat and wear. But it’s also overwhelming. Be sure to read through this itinerary and it’s accompanying posts on the Isle of Skye , Edinburgh , Inverness , and Glasgow to give you an idea of what you want to see, where your priorities are and a few options on what you want to include or exclude from your personal Scotland itinerary.

Scotland Itinerary – Wanderlust Guide

If you want to visit Scotland, but would rather take the work out of planning your trip, consider using my Wanderlust Guide Scotland Itinerary. It takes the stress out of planning and takes you day by day through the highlands and lowlands of Scotland, showing you as much of the country as possible while leaving plenty of time to enjoy your trip. 

Planning a Trip to Scotland

You’re ready to start planning your Scotland trip, great! Let’s talk about what to pack, where to go in Scotland, and where to stay. 

Packing for Scotland

Scotland is a gorgeous country…love it to death, but can we talk about the weather ? You’re not going to Hawaii ok, so plan accordingly!

The weather in Scotland can be…unpredictable, at best! I would pay no mind to any weather forecast you have previously looked at. The skies can change on a dime and surprise you for better or worse. Chances are, no matter what time of year you go to Scotland that you will have rain and it will be chilly during some part of your trip. Having layers and waterproof gear is essential.

Follow this   Scotland Packing List to be sure you have the best gear!

What to wear in Scotland:

• Waterproof Shoes
• Blanket Scarf

Planning Your Route

One of the best ways to see Scotland is by car or having your own vehicle. Taking a tour is great and stress-free, but Scotland self drive tours can be economical and a ton of fun. The country is easy to navigate, and it just takes a bit of planning and effort.  Try to stay organized when planning your Scotland Itinerary. I love using Google Maps, or Phone Apps like TripIt or Roadtrippers to plan out my itinerary and driving route before I leave. This is especially helpful if you won’t have cell service or have bad service, which is entirely likely in Scotland, especially as you get to the highlands. It’s great to have an offline option for keeping your trip organized. It helps to keep all your flight itineraries, rental car confirmation numbers, driving directions and hotel addresses all in one place and looking tidy. It’s great if you have to go back and log expenses as well!

Getting to Scotland

The cheapest flights into Scotland can usually be found to Edinburgh or Glasgow, but be sure to check other, smaller airports such as Aberdeen, where some budget airlines might fly into. Find out how I get insanely cheap flights to Europe ALL the time! 

Driving in Scotland

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

If you want to really see Scotland, you’ll have to rent a car. Coming from the US or mainland Europe, driving on the left can sound really scary, but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are a few tips:

• Think Left, Left, Left: Repeat the word “left” in your mind or out loud several times before you drive and while you’re starting out. Close your eyes and visualize yourself on the left. These seem kind of silly, but they will really help as you prepare to completely flip your usual driving autopilot brain backwards!
• When in doubt, follow the car in front of you.
• Roundabouts: Scotland and Europe, in general, is full of roundabouts. They are fantastic things that really help with the flow of traffic. In Scotland, they will curve to the left. Most of the time they consist of several lanes. be sure to follow the arrows or signs for which lane you need to be in. There can be anywhere from 2-6 or more exits on a roundabout and they can get pretty tricky. Just pay attention and you will be fine.
• Narrow Roads : Scotland is full of narrow roads with stone walls on either side. It’s an effort, but be sure to stay in your lane and not grazing the side of the wall or hedges.
• One Track Roads: You may come across quite a few one track roads, especially on the Isle of Skye. This means that there will be one lane shared by two directions of traffic. You will see “passing places” along all the roads where you must pull over and wait for cars to pass if you see them. Always pull over to the left. Never cross the road to pull into a passing place located on the right.
• Watch for animals: There’s nothing more magical than being in a sheep traffic jam! Just be sure to give them the right of way and pay attention. Also, look out for deer!
• Insurance: With all of the narrow roads, stone walls, hedges, small parking spaces and new left driving orientation, I always recommend that you get the full insurance on a rental car.Alternatively, look into your credit card as some cards, such as Chase Sapphire offer full rental car insurance in foreign countries. Be sure to bring along proof of this for the rental car company.

One Week in Scotland Itinerary

There’s never enough time to explore Scotland and it could honestly take you a lifetime, but most people who write to me asking for advice only have around one week in Scotland. I’ve configured this itinerary for you to be able to see the best of Scotland in a week. 

Now that you’ve done all you can to prepare for getting to, driving in and packing for Scotland, it’s time to talk about where you’ll be heading! I’ve arranged these 7 days in Scotland to begin and end in Edinburgh , where most flights will take you to in Scotland, but you can start this itinerary from anywhere on the map, or skip, add, change direction and alter to your heart’s content!

Map of the Perfect Scotland Itinerary for 7 days

I’ve created this interactive map of your 7 days in Scotland with directions between cities included.

Get your free Scotland Travel Planner

Day one: edinburgh.

Edinburgh will most likely be your starting point on your journey around Scotland, if it’s not, feel free to skip ahead! Edinburgh is a beautiful city full of rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food! What I think I love most about Edinburgh is that old-world feel mixed with a quirky vibe that’s hard to describe.

There are some amazing Airbnb apartments right in the historic center of Edinburgh. When we stayed there we booked a very affordable place which had a patio overlooking Edinburgh Castle. It was incredible and a highlight of our trip! My kids said they loved being able to look at “Hogwarts” haha! You can find that apartment here. 

Here is a list of affordable apartments in Edinburgh for families of 4-6! 

You could spend weeks wandering the streets of Edinburgh, but I’ve given you two days here, so get busy!

Here is a great detailed list of what to do in Edinburgh.   But here is a quick list to get you started:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Elephant House Cafe
• Victoria Street
• Calton Hill
• The Royal Mile
• St Giles Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Malt Whisky Trail

Day Two: Edinburgh & St. Andrews

Spend the night in Edinburgh, wake up and explore the city for about half a day. Finish up your Edinburgh list:

• Hike Arthur’s Seat for sunrise
• Holyrood Palace

Now that you’ve finished seeing Edinburgh, head to St. Andrews, it’s about an hour away from Edinburgh, known as a golf mecca and home to St. Andrews University which was founded in 1413, making it the 3rd oldest university in the UK, following only Oxford and Cambridge.

• St. Andrew’s Cathedral: Once the largest church in Scotland, St. Andrews Cathedral was a place of pilgrimage for Catholics during the medieval ages. It is in ruins now, but you can climb St. Rules tower and take in the views from the top.
• St. Andrews Links: Even if you’re not a golf enthusiast (I certainly am not), take a stroll along the cart paths and appreciate the famed course for its beauty and views.
• Blair Castle: This beautiful castle was just featured on an episode of Victoria and it’s right off the motorway, so stop if you have the time!

When you’ve had a taste for St. Andrews, begin your drive to Inverness. On your way, consider stopping at

Day Three: Inverness

Known as the capital of the highlands, Inverness is an ancient city with a long history. Home to Shakespeare’s infamous Macbeth and the stage for the Jacobite uprising and final defeat, Inverness will allow you to connect with the past like nowhere else.

I recommend stopping here for at least one night and giving yourself a full day to explore the surrounding areas. There are plenty of Airbnbs in the area, or you can even rent a camper van to hunt for Nessie yourself! 

Here is a list of affordable houses in the Inverness area

You should be able to see all of this in one day, but you can stay one more night here and finish in the morning, because you’ve got a big drive ahead of you tomorrow to the Isle of Skye . Read this in depth article about what to do in Inverness.   But here is a quick list:

• Culloden Battlefield
• Clava Cairns
• Urquhart Castle
• Cairngorms National Park

Day Four: Inverness and Drive to Isle of Skye

Finish up anything you missed in Inverness and begin the drive to the Isle of Skye . I prefer taking the northern route because it is the highest north that you will get in the highlands. If you’re there in the spring you will get a beautiful show from the purple heather blooming on the rolling hills. Just before you get to the Isle of Skye , stop at:

• Eilean Donan Castle

Take your time getting to Skye , but try to arrive before dark as you’ll be driving on one track roads at times, which can be tricky come nightfall, and riving over the Skye Bridge is something you’ll want to do in the daylight.

I recommend staying in Portree for the night as it is the capital of Skye and has great food and accommodations. This will be a great location for everything you’ll be doing tomorrow.

Day Five: Isle of Skye

Located on the west coast, The Isle of Skye, while becoming increasingly popular, is truly worth the drive! You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time once crossing the bridge onto the island life. While the island is small, there is much to see. I recommend staying here for at least two nights to give yourself a full day and maybe even two half days here. There are some fantastic Airbnbs on the Isle of Skye. Most of the homes are old shepherd cottages that are just adorable. We stayed in an old shepherd cottage near the Museum of Highland Life that had the most incredible sea view! I honestly didn’t want to leave. You can find our Airbnb here. 

Here is a list of affordable houses on the Isle of Skye

Wherever you stay, I HIGHLY recommend getting up at sunrise for your day on the Isle of Skye. The sunrise views just cannot be beat!  Read my Guide for Visiting the Isle of Skye . Here is a quick list of what to do:

• The Quiraing (catch the sunrise here!)
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Flora MacDonald Memorial Grave

You’ll probably want to spend another night on the Isle of Skye, since you’ll have a really full day and you don’t want to drive out of here at night!

Day Six: Isle of Skye and Drive to Glasgow

Wake up and finish anything on the Isle of Skye that you missed yesterday and start your journey to Glasgow. On your way there, stop at Glencoe and take in the beautiful scenery.

Day Seven: Glasgow

Spend half the day exploring Glawgow. Follow this Glasgow Local’s Guide . Then head to Stirling Castle and back to Edinburgh! I hope you fall in love with Scotland as much as I have and I hope this perfect Scotland itinerary will help you plan the perfect day trip! I’m always happy to help with trip planning. Connect with me on Facebook or Instagram if you need help! And check out The North Face on Zappos to get your Campshire gear ready for your trip of a lifetime to Scotland!

Scotland Itinerary FAQ

If you really want to explore Scotland, then anywhere between 7-10 days would be ideal. There are so many amazing places to visit and activities to do that you won’t want to miss out. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone looking for an amazing experience, Scotland has something for everyone.

7 days can give you enough time to see some of Scotland’s highlights, but if you have the opportunity to stay longer it is highly recommended. Some places in Scotland you may want to allocate more time for include: Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and Edinburgh.

Scotland offers something different all throughout the year. However, May is the best time to go in terms of weather. But if you’re looking to experience festivals, then August and September are great times to visit.

Wanderlust Crew

16 thoughts on “ perfect scotland itinerary ”.

Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She placed the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is totally off topic but I had to tell someone!

I am truly loving the theme/design of your website. Do you ever come across any internet browser compatibility situations? A lot of the site visitors have complained concerning my garageband free site not operating correctly in Explorer though seems fantastic in Opera. Do you have any kind of suggestions to assist repair this matter?

Hey, you are certainly correct. I frequently look over your content closely. I am likewise fascinated with wifi router settings, you might discuss this from time to time. I’ll be back.

Hello there, what do you think around wireless gaming headset? Very interesting subject, huh?

Hello! I recently came across this website and I honestly enjoy it. I always like to focus on router setup at times. Great to be here, bless you!

Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with a few pics to drive the message home a little bit, but other than that, this is wonderful blog. A great read. I’ll definitely be back.

Heya this is somewhat of off topic but I was wanting to know if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding know-how so I wanted to get guidance from someone with experience. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Skype has opened up its web-centered client beta towards the entire world, right after establishing it generally within the U.S. and U.K. before this 30 days. Skype for Online also now supports Linux and Chromebook for instant messaging communication (no voice and video however, individuals need a plug-in installment).

The increase of your beta brings assistance for a longer selection of different languages to assist bolster that overseas user friendliness

There’s awesome developments on the layout of the webpage, I really like this. My site is relating to upvc sliding sash windows and certainly, there are plenty of things to be done, I’m still a starter in website development. Take care!

Somebody essentially help to make seriously posts I would state. This is the first time I frequented your website page and thus far? I surprised with the research you made to make this particular publish incredible. Wonderful job!

Hello, Any accommodations you would recommend in Scotland? We are looking at a week in the summer and have just started looking. If we spend a few nights in Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Isle Of Skye, and Inverness, did you book Airbnb’s in each place? Thanks, Kate

Hey Kate! We mostly stayed in Airbnbs but we stayed in an amazing hotel in Edinburgh. Our room was bigger than my house! There were two big bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a huge kitchen and living room. I booked it with my hotel points but it was only about $175/night in downtown Edinburgh which I thought was awesome. You can find it here: https://booki.ng/2H9IOqH

When we went to Edinburgh again, the hotel was booked so we stayed in this Airbnb which was also awesome https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23706638 a lot smaller though!

On the Isle of Skye, Airbnbs will be your best bet. There are quite a few. I’ve stayed in several and also several hotels there, but this is by far my favorite airbnb. We didn’t want to leave. the views were incredible! https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21872504

We stayed here near Stirling Castle https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9815972

I hope this helps!

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

Pingback: Read These Before Visiting Scotland: Books Set In Scotland - TravelingMel

Pingback: The Travel Blogger's Guide to Scotland - The Travel Hack

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Scotland » Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide

Sharing is caring!

Dreaming of your first Scotland trip? Let me show you exactly how to plan a trip to Scotland like a pro!

This post about how to plan a trip to scotland for the first time was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Have you dreamed about visiting the land of tartan, shortbread, and Braveheart for years? It’s time to start planning a trip to Scotland to turn those dreams into a reality!

Whether you’re visiting on a city break in Edinburgh or a road trip through the Highlands, there’s so much to see. Scotland boasts over 1,500 castles, more than 30,000 lochs, and six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

So, figuring out how to plan a trip to Scotland can be challenging!

This easy guide will take you through where to go in Scotland, the top attractions and activities, and everything else you need to know for a smooth trip.

Once you’ve ticked off all the steps of this Scotland planning guide, you can relax and enjoy your trip. Ideally, with a wee dram of whisky or a piece of Scottish tablet fudge!

15-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Scotland

Step 1: check your passport and visa requirements for scotland.

The last thing you want to do is go to the effort of meticulously planning a Scotland trip and realizing too late that one of your kids’ passports has expired!

Scotland is a country in the United Kingdom, so it’s not part of the European Union or the Schengen Zone. The UK’s rules for entry for US and Canadian citizens are more lax than in the EU.

Most tourists will not need a Visa and you only need two months validity left on your passport.

Step 2: Figure out the Length of Your Scotland Trip

If you’re traveling long haul, you’re probably not looking for tips on how to visit Scotland for less than three days! Four nights is the minimum for a city break to Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh, for example.

One week is enough to visit Edinburgh plus a couple of places in the Highlands and islands. You could book a multi-day tour to the Isle of Skye or Fort William and Loch Ness or rent a car.

Two weeks or more is ideal if this is your first time in Scotland and you want to take an epic road trip. You will probably need to set aside at least two weeks if you want to figure out how to plan a trip to Scotland and Ireland without spending your whole trip in the car!

Step 3: Research the Best Time to Travel to Scotland

For the ideal balance between pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation, the best times to travel to Scotland are the shoulder seasons of April – May and September – October.

Scotland in summer has the warmest weather with average temperatures of 59-63 °F/15-17°C with heatwaves growing more common. 

August is the festival season in Edinburgh. Some travelers will love the cultural experience, but others won’t love the crowds and expensive accommodations.

New Year (named ‘Hogmanay’ in Scotland) is an important holiday. You can also ski in the Cairngorms in winter.

Step 4: Choose Where to Visit in Scotland

There are so many amazing places to go in Scotland! Here is a breakdown of all the top travel destinations:

• Big Cities: Edinburgh and Glasgow
• Small Cities: St Andrews and Stirling
• National Parks: Loch Lomond and The Trossachs and the Cairngorms
• Road Trip Routes: North Coast 500, Southwest Coast 300, and North East 250
• Popular Islands: The Isle of Skye, Mull, Arran, Iona, Lewis and Harris, and Islay
• Popular Highland Areas: Loch Ness, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Fort William

Looking for Scotland vacation ideas off the beaten path? Stick to the Scottish Borders region or visit an island or city not listed like Jura, Tiree, or Aberdeen.

Step 5: Create a Budget for Your Vacation in Scotland

Your budget for your trip to Scotland will depend on many factors. When you’re planning to travel, how many people you are traveling will, and your travel style will all play a role.

Budget Your Trip has determined that two people traveling in Scotland for one week spend, on average, around $2,613 per person.

Planning a trip to Scotland is usually less expensive than in other Western European countries like Switzerland or Germany. However, it can be more expensive than Portugal or Italy.

Step 6: Book Your Flights to Scotland

The best way to travel to Scotland for most North American travelers is, of course, by plane!

Approximately 10 cities across the US and Canada offer direct flights to Edinburgh, mostly from the East Coast. There are also tons of flights from various London airports to Edinburgh, so that might be a good layover option.

Step 7: Plan the Best Itinerary for Scotland

The best itinerary for your Scotland trip will depend on what you like to do and where you’re going! Here are some Scotland itineraries to suit different types of travelers:

• How to plan a golf trip to Scotland – Visit Edinburgh (plenty of golf courses in the city!) and St. Andrews for the oldest golf course in the world
• How to plan a trip to Scotland with kids – Visit Edinburgh, Loch Ness, and ride the Jacobite steam train from Harry Potter across Glenfinnan Viaduct
• How to plan a whisky trip to Scotland – Take a small group tour to the Isle of Islay from Edinburgh or hire a car and drive up to Speyside
• How to plan a first-time trip to Scotland – Visit Edinburgh for three days and then rent a car and drive up to Fort William and Glenfinnan through Glen Coe. Visit the Isle of Skye for two or three days and then drive across to Loch Ness. Drive back down to Edinburgh through Stirling

Step 8: Book Accommodation in Scotland

Currently, Scotland does not charge a tourist tax when you book accommodation like Italy or Spain. However, there is a Visitor Levy bill in parliament so that may have changed by the time you visit!

The best places to stay in Scotland vary between the cities and the countryside. Edinburgh and Glasgow have a range of boutique and branded hotels and hostels. 

Looking for where to stay in Scotland on the islands or Highlands? Guesthouses and cute Bed and Breakfasts are usually the best options for price and experience.

On road trips, you often need to stop overnight somewhere with no town nearby. Short-term rentals and glamping are great places to stay.

RVs can also be cost-effective on road trips. Just remember to book a small vehicle (Scotland’s roads are narrow!) and stay overnight in campsites to help the local economy.

Step 9: Book a Rental Car and Ferries

While visiting Scotland’s cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, you definitely won’t need a car! Buses (Glasgow also has a metro) are super easy to use. Just use a contactless credit or debit card to pay the driver.

You can use trains to travel between towns in Scotland’s Lowlands and buses between larger towns in the Highlands. 

However, if you are traveling for a week or longer in the Scottish Highlands, it makes sense to book a group tour or rent a car. 

Book a small car to navigate Scotland’s very narrow roads! And pay a little extra for an automatic car if you’re not used to manual. They are the standard in Scotland, so that’s what you’ll get if you don’t request an automatic.

Organize ferry tickets as far in advance as possible. Especially during busy seasons! Sometimes, only one or two ferries travel between ports every day.

Step 10: Purchase Attraction Tickets and Plan Activities

It’s better to purchase some more popular attraction tickets like those to Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness tours in advance. 

Consider an Edinburgh City Pass if you plan on visiting lots of ticketed attractions during your trip. But keep in mind that many Edinburgh museums and galleries, like the National Museum of Scotland, are free to visit.

Check out the Historic Scotland or National Trust for Scotland memberships if you plan on visiting lots of castles and other historic sites.

Want to travel on the Jacobite steam train in the summer? Book your tickets in January! That’s not an exaggeration – this is one of the most popular attractions in Scotland.

Step 11: Buy Travel Insurance for Your Vacation to Scotland

The best time to purchase travel insurance for your trip to Scotland is right after you book your flights. This will ensure every penny you spend on your trip is protected.

But as long as you buy travel insurance before you step foot in the airport, your health and belongings are protected.

Check with your credit card provider as they often include travel insurance as a benefit!

Step 12: Figure out Phone, Credit Card, and Currency

Speaking of credit cards, make sure you have a travel-friendly Mastercard or Visa payment card. American Express isn’t accepted in many places across Scotland, but credit cards in general are widely accepted.

Since Scotland is part of the UK, the currency is Great British Pound (£). Bring some cash to make purchases when making small purchases in more remote parts of Scotland.

Make sure you can use your phone abroad too! Check your phone plan before traveling and if it doesn’t include international coverage, get an eSIM for the UK.

Step 13: Watch Movies and Read Books Set in Scotland

Planning a trip to Scotland doesn’t stop once you’ve booked everything! Continue the excitement by watching movies or TV shows and reading books set in Scotland.

Of course, re-watching the Harry Potter movies with your kids is essential before a trip to Scotland. The book series or TV adaptation of Outlander is great for after they’ve gone to bed!

Step 14: Pack the Right Outfits for Traveling in Scotland

You should always prepare for rain no matter when you are visiting Scotland. Pack a light raincoat in summer and a warm parka in winter. 

Layers are a great idea because the weather can change dramatically from day to day.

Sturdy boots are essential for pounding the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. Hiking boots are a must in the Highlands or islands.

Step 15: Go To Scotland!

The only thing left to do is to board a plane and prepare yourself for a magical vacation in the lush, storied country of Scotland.

Save some space in your suitcase to pick up a wool sweater, tartan scarf, and lots of shortbread!

Planning a Trip to Scotland FAQs

What month is the best time to visit scotland.

The shoulder season is the best time to visit Scotland for the ideal balance of mild weather, cheaper accommodation, and fewer crowds. 

Winter nights are very long. Summer is extremely crowded, with roads in remote areas clogged with RVs and festivals in the cities.

How many days is enough for Scotland?

Three to four days is enough for Scotland if you just want to visit Edinburgh. This is enough time to explore the city and take a day trip.

If you want to explore parts of the Scottish countryside too, stay for at least one week. 10 days to two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit Edinburgh, Glasgow, the national parks, the Highlands near Fort William, and the Isle of Skye.

How far in advance should I book a trip to Scotland?

Three to four months is far enough in advance to plan a trip to Scotland if you are not visiting in the summer. If you are visiting in the summer, six to nine months is preferable.

Planning a Trip to Scotland Wrap-Up

This step-by-step guide to planning a trip to Scotland is foolproof. 

There’s no way you will accidentally skip one of the best destinations in Scotland or make a common travel mistake. 

Your Scotland trip planning efforts will all feel worth it looking up at Edinburgh Castle from the Royal Mile or driving through Glen Coe!

Looking for more Scotland travel resources? Check out 9 Best Edinburgh Hotels for Families Worth Booking , 13 Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train , and 13 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh by Train !

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Captivating landscapes, picturesque cities and a fascinating history make Scotland one of the top destinations in the world. With so much to choose from, creating the perfect itinerary for Scotland can be quite an undertaking. No need to worry, though. This 10 Day Scotland Itinerary – outlined in a simple, day-by-day format – features the best Scottish sights, attractions and experiences.

From ancient castles to buzzing cities to charming villages and rugged lands, we are outlining the Best Scotland Vacation Itinerary!

10 Day Scotland Itinerary: Trip Planning FAQs

Before we get to our outlined Scotland trip itinerary, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions, which will help you plan your adventure.

How Many Days in Scotland?

The first step in planning a Scotland trip is deciding how many days to spend in the country. That will depend on your interests, budget and overall travel timeframe. That said, we think visiting Scotland in 10 days is ideal.

Spending 10 days in Scotland allows visitors enough time to experience the best of Scotland, without feeling too rushed or overwhelmed.

We understand, however, that not all travelers plan on visiting Scotland in 10 days. To help sort out the best way to visit Scotland within shorter or longer timeframes, we share alternate Scotland itineraries at the end of the article.

Which Destinations are Included in this Scotland Travel Itinerary?

Although rather small in size, Scotland boasts a number of diverse and intriguing destinations that span the country. On a 10-Day Trip to Scotland, visitors need to pick and choose what to see in order to create their best Scotland itinerary. 

Our 10 Day Itinerary of Scotland features the top destinations in the country, including Edinburgh, Inverness, Isle of Skye and Glasgow.

The journey begins with 3 days in historic Edinburgh, a city that boasts grand architecture and a rich culture. Visitors then traverse north into the Highlands to the city of Inverness, where they have 2 days to explore the beautiful rolling hills of the region.

Next, navigate to the majestic Isle of Skye and spend 4 days discovering the enchanting landscapes. The trip ends in Glasgow, an often overlooked city with a vibrant atmosphere and buzzing entertainment venues.

This trip plan for Scotland appeals to a variety of travelers – including nature lovers, history buffs and whisky enthusiasts. We traveled as a couple, but you can easily make changes to create a special Scotland honeymoon itinerary, a family vacation or solo adventure.

Is this Sample Scotland Itinerary for Driving or Public Transit?

One of the biggest decisions when planning a Scotland 10 Day Itinerary is determining how to get around. Should you plan a Scotland self-drive tour or use public transport? Fortunately, our Scotland itinerary planner can be adapted to either driving or using trains and buses.

Driving a car does allow for the most freedom, but it comes with a bigger responsibility (and can be difficult for those not used to driving on the left). Scottish Public transport can be limiting but is typically more affordable and a more relaxing mode of transit.

We share tips for how drivers can expand the itinerary in the day-by-day guide – and offer hints for those traveling Scotland without a car, as well. We provide additional transit advice in the Travel Tips section at the end of the article.

Is the Suggested Itinerary for Scotland a Budget Trip Plan?

There is no doubt about it: Scotland is expensive. However, with a little effort, budget conscious travelers can plan an affordable vacation to Scotland.

On this 10 Day Scotland Itinerary we recommend sightseeing adventures and hotel accommodations in a range of prices – but, generally speaking, it is a mid-to-low range budget trip.

Those with a big travel budget can easily splash out on high-end hotels, private tours and fine dining. On the other hand, budget travelers may want to eliminate or substitute some of our recommendations for cheap or free things to do in Scotland.

Planning Tips for 10 Days in Scotland Itinerary

This overview of how to plan a trip to Scotland can be further enhanced with these articles:

• How To Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh
• What and Where to Eat in Edinburgh
• Things To Do in Inverness and the Highlands
• Spend a Day in Plockton, Scotland
• Visiting Portree, Scotland on Isle of Skye
• One Day in Glasgow
• Hiking the West Highland Way on Vacation

Travelers visiting Scotland from abroad will also find it useful to read our advice on How To Plan a Europe Vacation .

Organized Scotland Trip Planner

As you being to make your plans and reservations, organization is key! We recommend using a vacation planner – like our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all the details!

Day-by-Day Scotland Itinerary 10 Days

Now that we have covered the basics, it’s time to get to the detailed outline of the 10 Day Travel Itinerary Scotland.

 Save, Pin or Bookmark our Guide to the Best Scotland Itinerary to plan your vacation!

DAY 1: Essential Edinburgh

Kick off your 10-Day Trip to Scotland Itinerary with essential Edinburgh sightseeing. After getting settled into your hotel (we share recommendations later), head right for the heart of the city: The Royal Mile. See the highlights, then climb up Calton Hill – and end the day with whisky and a pub meal.

Sights on The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile links the mighty Edinburgh Castle to the grandiose Holyrood Palace – and marks the center of Edinburgh.

Visit the castle ( take a tour for a fantastic introduction) then walk the length of The Mile, stopping along the route to visit other popular sights. Top things to see are the St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Museum of Edinburgh, Canongate Kirk and the Scottish Parliament. Use our complete guide of Things To Do in Edinburgh for more details and additional attractions.

At the Palace of Holyroodhouse, buy a ticket to go inside to see the lavishly decorated British royal residence and The Queen’s Gallery.

Explore Calton Hill

In the afternoon, make the short climb up Calton Hill. In addition to offering one of the most spectacular views of Edinburgh, the area hosts a handful of sights – like the National Monument (resembling the Parthenon), the Nelson Monument and the City Observatory.

Whisky and Pub Dinner

Wind down after a full day of exploring historic and royal Edinburgh with a Scotch whisky. There are an ample variety of whisky tasting experiences offered – from a whirlwind intro at The Scotch Whisky Experience ( get tickets in advance ) to an intimate Whisky and Folklore Tasting ( booking is essential! ).

End your first day in Scotland with a classic Scottish meal at a traditional pub on The Royal Mile. Deacon Brodies Tavern or The World’s End are our top picks, but have a peek at more recommendations (and explanations) on our list of Edinburgh Eats !

DAY 2: Explore Edinburgh Beyond The Royal Mile

On Day 2 of this Scotland Highlights Itinerary, explore beyond The Royal Mile. Stroll through parks, visit the best museums, discover beautiful districts and smell the flowers at the Botanic Garden.

Edinburgh Parks, Museums and Monuments

Edinburgh is lush with vast green spaces, fantastic museums and ornate monuments – and seeing a few of the best is the perfect way to start Day 2 of your trip.

Spend the morning on a leisurely stroll through the landscaped Princes Street Gardens, which sit just beneath Edinburgh Castle. The National Gallery marks the east end of the park – and it’s well worth popping inside to see the collection of artworks (plus, it’s free!).

The nearby Scott Monument – dedicated to Sir Walter Scott and riddled with statues – is a must-see Edinburgh sight. Energized visitors can climb the 287 stairs to the top for panoramic views.

Discover New Town

New Town is the posh, planned neighborhood just north of the Royal Mile. Developed in the late 1700s, the district is marked by elegant architecture and grand Georgian homes.

Start your discovery of New Town at St. Andrew Square (the first section of New Town to be built in 1772) and then walk a block north to the fabulous National Portrait Gallery and step inside the lavish Grand Hall entryway.

Zigzag your way through New Town so that you walk along all three of the parallel streets – Rose, Thistle and George – and end in Charlotte Square at The Georgian House, a furnished 18th century home open to visitors (with a ticket).

Dean Village, Stockbridge and the Botanical Gardens

Just a short walk from Charlotte Square is quaint Dean Village, which boasts a handful of old cottages and fine stone dwellings. The bucolic village sits appealingly along a curve of the Water of Leith River, attracting visitors and locals alike.

From Dean Village, follow the Water of Leith Walkway Path north to Stockbridge (detour to Circus Lane for the best mews in the city) and then continue on the path to the Edinburgh Botanical Garden.

Encompassing 70 acres, the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh features planned gardens connected by intertwining paths.

Dinner and Drinks in New Town

On the second day of your Scotland trip, dine in New Town, where there are upscale pubs (try The Magnum), spicy Indian eats (like the ever-popular Dishoom) and loads of fun bars (The Black Cat often has live music).

For an entirely different scene, join the boisterous crowds at Edinburgh Street Food, where international fare and local eats are on offer from multiple vendors under one roof.

DAY 3: Unique Edinburgh, Scotland

Day 3 of our Best Itinerary for Scotland features some of the most interesting Edinburgh sights and attractions. Embark on a hike, visit a world-class museum, see an ancient cemetery and then go underground for an alternate perspective of the city.

Arthur’s Seat

Stretch your legs in the morning and hike to the 822-foot summit of Arthur’s Seat. The inclined trek is challenging, but the views are sublime.

Trekkers can opt to retrace their steps back into Edinburgh – or head down the backside of Arthur’s Seat to the Duddingston neighborhood, which boasts a historic pub and a lakeside walk.

University, Museum and Cemetery

Spend the better part of the day visiting top sights to the south of The Royal Mile: The University of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland and Greyfriars Cemetery.

Walk through The University of Edinburgh – often ranked as one of the prettiest campuses in the UK – to admire the Georgian Old College and McEwan Hall. 

Just north of campus is the National Museum of Scotland, a phenomenal museum with interactive displays and natural history exhibits (be sure to find Dolly, the first cloned sheep!). 

Greyfriars Cemetery is right next to the museum – and it’s one of the city’s best attractions. The old graveyard features elaborate tombstones, spooky corners and a memorial to Bobby, a legendary dog. Travelers can join a tour or visit the cemetery on their own.

Edinburgh Underground Tour

In the late afternoon, delve deep into the dark history of Edinburgh and go underground on a tour of the hidden Edinburgh Vaults.

The subterranean space is a labyrinth of dark passageways that played a big part in the history of the city. The vaults can only be reached on a guided tour – and it’s best to buy tickets in advance . 

Dinner and Drinks in Grassmarket

The lively and fun Grassmarket district is the perfect place to cap off the third day of your 10-Day Scotland Trip.

Head up to the Cold Town House Rooftop Bar for local craft beer and then indulge in a pub meal at The White Hart Inn – one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh and is also said to be haunted.  

DAY 4: Inverness and Scottish Highlands

Get an early start on Day 4 of your 10-Day Tour of Scotland Itinerary and transit from Edinburgh to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Once settled in your hotel, set off to explore the city.  

Car, Train or Bus from Edinburgh to Inverness

Driving the route to Inverness from Edinburgh allows the opportunity to see a few sights along the route. Drivers can stop to see The Kelpies (the famous Scotland horse statues), Stirling Castle and the Victorian town of Pitlochry. If time allows, visitors with a car can also stop in Aviemore and visit Cairngorms National Park in route to Inverness.

Both trains and buses transport passengers from Edinburgh to Inverness. Either way, the ride takes about 3.5 hours, but trains tend to be more expensive.

Inverness Sightseeing

A thriving city in the heart of the Highlands, Inverness features abundant nature, a handful of sights and a buzzing bar scene.

With a half day to explore, visitors can cover some ground. Start in the city center to see the castle, cathedral, Inverness Museum, The Victoria Market, Old High Church and the famous Leakey’s Bookshop. If time allows, discover even more by using our article, What To See in Inverness .

Before dinner, set off on foot along the banks of the River Ness, crossing the historic bridges along the way. South of the center, the top attractions are the Ness Islands and the Inverness Botanic Gardens. Alternatively, take a walk north to Carnarc Point in search of dolphins in the Beauly Firth!

Dinner and Drinks in Inverness

Make a dinner reservation at The Mustard Seed, one of the best restaurants in Inverness. Situated in an old church, the restaurant menu features Scottish Highland specialties – like Highland beef, Scottish salmon and venison dishes.

After your meal, head to one of the best Inverness bars. Gellions and MacGregor’s are our two favorite places for live music and a great atmosphere – but Johnny Foxes, Highlander and Hootananny have a solid line up of musical acts, as well. 

DAY 5: Tour the Highlands from Inverness

Inverness is an ideal jumping off point to see some of the best attractions in the Highlands! From historic sights to nature hikes or boat trips in search of mythical sea creatures, there are endless ways to plan Day 5 of your Itinerary for Scotland Trip.

Tour from Inverness

Travelers with a car can plan to see these sights of Scotland on their own, but there are top-rated tours that can save the hassle of planning and driving. Plus, the guides offer outstanding insight into the history and people of the region. We are highlighting a few of the best guided tours and DIY adventures from Inverness.

Highlands Highlights Tour

Featuring the natural beauty of the Highlands, this top rated, small group tour takes you to the historic Culloden Battlefield, the ancient stones of Clava Cairns and a distillery. Also included are seeing Highland cows at a local farm, the iconic Urquhart Castle and photo stops along Loch Ness. Check availability!  

Classic Nature and Whisky Highlands Tour

On this classic Highlands tour, participants spend a full day experiencing some of the best Highlands sights: Cairngorm National Park, Carrbridge Village and Aviemore – plus, a stop at a historic Highlands distillery for a tour and tasting. Get the details!

Falls of Foyers, Loch Ness Views and Highland Coos

Travelers can plan their own day trip from Inverness to the east side of Loch Ness. Attractions along the loch are the Falls of Foyers Forest Hike, The Camerons Tea Rooms and Hairy Coos. You can also add in a stop to see the Loch Ness Alpacas in Dores!

Visitors can self-drive or use public buses to complete this day trip from Inverness.

Great Glen Way, Fort Augustus and Caledonian Canal

The Great Glen Way is a multi-day hike that extends from Fort William to Inverness – but trekkers can easily complete just a portion of the route. We recommend taking the bus from Inverness to Invermoriston – and then hiking 7.5 miles to Fort Augustus (where you can take a bus back to Inverness).

The top thing to do in Fort Augustus is to marvel at the locks of the Caledonian Canal (which also stretches from Fort William to Inverness), but visitors can also set sail on a Loch Ness boat tour to track down that illusive Nessie!

Travelers can self-drive or use public transit to complete this day trip, but a bus is best if planning to walk a full section of the Great Glen Way.

Inverness Dinner and Drinks

After days of tucking into hearty Scottish cuisine, switch things up a little with pizza for dinner from Black Isle Bar. The short menu features wonderful wood-fired pizzas topped with local ingredients, which just happen to pair perfectly with a pint of excellent Scottish craft beer.

Stay local and grab a post-dinner drink at the riverside Uliebheist Distillery and Brewery, which boasts a contemporary bar as well as an outdoor beer garden.

DAY 6: Travel to Portree, Isle of Skye from Inverness

Continue your Scotland Highland Tour Itinerary and travel from Inverness to the incredible Isle of Skye. After settling in at your hotel, set off to see the lovely town and, if time allows, take a coastal hike.

Car or Bus from Inverness to Isle of Skye

Travelers can reach Isle of Skye from Inverness by car or bus – and both routes traverse some of the most stunning landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.

By car, we recommend driving on A832, passing through gorgeous valleys, along blue lochs and around striking mountains. Make a stop in Plockton, Scotland – a pretty west coast village – to eat lunch and have a walk around town. Before continuing to Isle of Skye, make a second stop at the famous Eilean Donan Castle.

Travelers without a car can take a bus from Inverness to Skye. The Eilean Donan Castle is on the route – and travelers who want to tour the castle can hop off the bus, store their luggage in lockers, check out the castle and then be on the next bus to continue the journey to Skye. Do note that individual bus tickets for each leg of the journey will need to be purchased (and they should be purchased in advance).

Note that there is a train from Inverness to Plockton, but there are no lockers at the train station and travelers will need to continue on by train to Kyle of Lochalsh to pick up a bus to get to Skye…and the train/bus times do not align very well.

The ride from Inverness to Skye – by car or bus – takes at least 3 hours without any stops.

Portree, Skye Sights

Once on Isle of Skye, make the most of what is left of the day. Use our tips to discover the Best Things To Do in Portree Town . 

See the colorful houses in the harbor, walk the Meall Walkway to the top of The Lump or spend a couple of hours hiking the coastline Scorrybreac Trail. If the weather is rainy (and it often is on the Misty Isle), spend the afternoon tasting local gin and whisky at the Isle of Skye Distillers.

Those who arrive early in the afternoon can opt to join one of the exceptional wildlife-watching boat trips that depart from Portree Harbour.

Dinner and Drinks in Portree

For dinner on your first night in Isle of Skye, feast on fresh caught seafood at Sea Breezes. The restaurant is situated in an old harborside building and the seafood offerings are spectacular (book ahead!).

After your meal, enjoy a drink (and maybe live Scottish music) at Merchant Bar, An Talla Mor 1820 Pub or West Highlands Bar.

DAY 7: See the Best of Isle of Skye, Scotland

On Day 7 of this Best of Scotland Itinerary, explore the magnificent and mystical landscapes of the Isle of Skye on the Trotternish Peninsula. Most of the day will be spent outdoors and on trails – so lace up your hiking shoes and bring a waterproof jacket!

Trotternish Peninsula Sights

The Trotternish Peninsula hosts some of the most iconic rock formations, vistas and waterfalls on the Isle of Skye.

Top attractions along the route are Old Man of Storr, Lealt Falls, dinosaur prints and viewpoints at Brother’s Point, Kilt Rock Cliff and Mealt Falls Viewpoint, The Quiraing escarpment and The Fairy Glen. We share detailed information about each sight and more in our Best Things To Do on Isle of Skye article.

Those interested in hiking in Scotland will find fabulous trails on Isle of Skye. Old Man of Storr, Brother’s Point, The Quiraing and Rubha Hunish are all rated moderate – and each takes about 2 hours to complete.

Trotternish sights are accessible via the A855/A87 road that encircles the northern peninsula – and travelers can use a car or bus to reach them all.

That said, visitors without a car will need to pick and choose which sights to see, as the limited number of buses makes it impossible to see them all in a single day. Use the current Skye bus schedule to plan your best route.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that, while the parking lots (and bus stops) for each sight are close to the road, walking and/or hiking is required to reach nearly all the points of interest on Skye.

Portree Pub for Dinner and Drinks

After a full day of hiking and sightseeing in Scotland, indulge in a hearty pub meal at The Isles Inn Pub in the heart of Portree. The casual restaurant serves classic Scottish meals alongside local craft beer and drams of whisky.

DAY 8: Isle of Skye Must See Sights

More dramatic landscapes await on Day 8 of our ultimate Scotland Itinerary – plus a few man-made marvels and can even include a whisky tasting.

Adventuring Around Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is the second-largest island in Scotland. Attractions and sights are flung from one end to the other. Therefore, travelers have two ways to adventure around Skye: Self-Drive or Organized Tour.

Self-Drive Tour on Isle of Skye

Visitors with a car who are comfortable driving on the single-track roads can cover quite a distance in a single day. The top sights to see on Day 8 include Dunvegan Castle, Neist Point Lighthouse, Dun Beag Broch, Talisker Distillery and the Fairy Pools. We share additional details on how to plan this day in our complete Isle of Skye Itinerary .

Isle of Skye Organized Tour

Scotland visitors without a car (and those who would just rather leave the driving to someone else for a day) can still see most of these sights on an organized tour.

We opted to join an active sightseeing tour that featured ample time for exploring top attractions (like Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Pools and The Fairy Glen), plus picturesque photo stops along the way. Find out more!  

Another popular Skye tour features stops at the Fairy Pools, Talisker Whisky Distillery and either Dunvegan Castle or Neist Point Lighthouse – and additional stops along the Trotternish Peninsula for photos. See if there is availability!  

Portree Dinner with a View

End Day 8 of your Scotland trip with an exceptional dinner at The View Restaurant in the Cuillin Hills Hotel. The menu features delectable meals made with locally sourced food – and the views across the bay are simply astounding. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, as they do book up – especially in the summertime.

DAY 9: Idyllic Island Landscapes

The landscapes of Isle of Skye are otherworldly – and sometimes it is best to see them from afar. On the morning of Day 9 of your 10-Day Itinerary Scotland, set sail to Isle of Raasay. Then, back on Skye in the afternoon, wander and gaze at the mountainous vistas in Sligachan.

Isle of Raasay

Sitting just a stone’s throw from Skye, Raasay Island is rustic, charming and far less crowded than Skye. Plus, the views of Skye from across the bay are utterly staggering!

Getting to Raasay is easy and inexpensive with the local ferry from the Sconser pier. The ferries accept passengers, bicycles and a limited number of cars.

On Raasay, the top things to do are hiking or biking the coastal trails and eating a picnic lunch from an epic viewpoint along the elevated shoreline. After touring the island, visit the Raasay Distillery, where they produce both Scotch whisky and gin on site.

Sligachan Trails

Ferry back to Skye and make your way to Sligachan, a historic Scottish settlement at an important crossroads on the island.

Trails extend from the Old Sligachan Bridge into the extraordinary Cuillin Mountain Range. A popular (but often soggy) footpath follows the riverside, offering sweeping views of the peaks in the distance. Another great trail is the short 1-mile hike to the flowing Sligachan Waterfall. Ambitious trekkers can continue an additional 5 miles to the Fairy Pools. 

Drinks and Dinner in Sligachan

Seumas’ Bar in Sligachan is a popular place to eat and imbibe on the Isle of Skye and is our recommended restaurant to end Day 9 of your trip. The fun eatery welcomes a lively crowd and serves satisfying pub grub – like burgers and fish-and-chips.

More than 400 Scottish whiskies are available at the bar and they offer tastings, too. Plus, they sell local craft beer from the Cuillin Brewery that is right next door.

DAY 10: The Best of Glasgow

On the final day of your Scotland trip, make your way from Isle of Skye to Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city. After a long day of travel, there will just be enough time to take in the top sights.

Car or Bus from Isle of Skye to Glasgow

The route to Glasgow from Isle of Skye along A87/A82 is incredibly scenic…and incredibly long, with a total distance of about 200 miles.

Travelers with a car can make the journey in about 5.5 hours. However, there are a few gorgeous places to stop along the way (like Glencoe and Loch Lomond) to stretch your legs and gawk at the wonderful Scottish scenery.

The bus trip from Portree to Glasgow takes 7 hours – and we recommend leaving bright and early on the first bus of the day. That said, travelers can break up the journey with a short stop in Fort William for lunch (although, this will severely limit the amount of time you have to explore Glasgow later in the day).

Glasgow Sightseeing

Although Glasgow Attractions span from east to west, most sights are located in or near the city center and can be seen in half a day. If you plan to visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery or Hunterian Museum in the Glasgow West End, we suggest you begin there and then go straight to the Cathedral and finish in downtown Glasgow.

Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis

The Cathedral and Necropolis are two Glasgow sights that are not to be missed! The stone cathedral dates to the year 1136 and features colorful stained-glass windows. Behind the church, ornate gravestones and mausoleums cover the hillside, which served as the burial place for prominent Glaswegians in the 1800s.

Glasgow Street Art  

The outstanding street art in Glasgow is impossible to miss. Large murals cover the sides of buildings all around the city. The most famous Glasgow street art mural is Saint Mungo – a painting by artist Smug, which is located at 287 High Street.

You can also find excellent murals on Mitchell Street, along with the architecturally unique ‘Lighthouse’ building that was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in the late 1800s.

George Square and Surrounding Streets

George Square marks the civic center of Glasgow. The green space is surrounded by elegantly designed buildings and is dotted with statues, monuments and memorials.

Nearby sights include the Gallery of Modern Art (free to visit) and the Duke of Wellington Statue that stands in front of the GoMa building (which will likely be topped with a traffic cone – a humorous Glasgow tradition).

Buchannan Street is a thriving shopping district – and even those with no ambition to shop should stroll the length of the wide pedestrian-only area and soak up the atmosphere of modern Scotland.

Eat and Drink in Merchant City

End your day in Merchant City, the go-to district for dining and entertainment in Glasgow. An absolute mecca of pubs and restaurants, there is certainly something to please every palate.

Merchant Square, with multiple restaurants under one roof, is a fun place for a meal – and Paesano Pizza around the corner is a popular choice for locals. That said, for a final Scottish meal, our top pick is The Piper Whisky Bar, where you can savor one last serving of haggis!

Scotland Itinerary Map

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Scotland map.

Alternate Scotland Itinerary Ideas

We shared our Best Scotland Vacation Itinerary for 10 days, but we have a few ideas for travelers with alternate trip plans.

Scotland Itinerary 5 Days

With just 5 short days in Scotland, you will need to create a very concise itinerary. There are a few different ways to plan a 5 Days in Scotland Itinerary – and we are sharing our two recommendations.

The simplest way to plan a Scotland 5 Day Itinerary is to limit yourself to visiting just Edinburgh and Glasgow. Spend 3 days in Edinburgh and 2 days in Glasgow.

Those who want to experience the Highlands, however, could plan a fast-paced 5 Day Scotland Itinerary that includes Edinburgh, Skye and Glasgow.

Spend the first two days in Edinburgh, drive to Skye on Day 3, spend the next full day in Skye and then return to Edinburgh or drive to (and depart from) Glasgow.

Travelers without a car can also complete this itinerary by joining an organized 3-Day Skye Tour from Edinburgh .

Scotland Itinerary 7 Days

One week in Scotland can be a fantastic vacation! Planning a 7 Days in Scotland Itinerary allows you to enjoy quite a bit of the country at a fairly enjoyable pace.

One way to plan a Scotland 7 Day Itinerary is to visit Edinburgh, Skye and Glasgow. Spend 3 days in Edinburgh, drive to Skye on Day 4, spend a full day in Skye (Day 5). Next, drive to Glasgow on Day 6 and spend the complete next day exploring the city.

Alternatively, visitors could create a 7 Day Scotland Itinerary that visits Edinburgh, Inverness and Skye. Start the trip with 2 days in Edinburgh, drive to Inverness on Day 3, explore the Highlands on Day 4, drive to Skye on Day 5. Spend Day 6 discovering Isle of Skye, then on Day 7, drive to Glasgow.

Scotland Itinerary 14 Days

Travelers who can swing a full two weeks in Scotland will not be disappointed – because there is still so much to see!

Scotland Hiking Itinerary

The best way to plan a 14 Day Scotland Itinerary is to use our 10-day trip plan as a base – but add an incredible hiking adventure into the mix!

Begin by following our Scotland 10-day plan exactly as it is written (3 days Edinburgh, 2 days Inverness, 4 days on Skye). Then, spend the next 3 or 4 days Hiking the West Highland Way – one of the most stunningly beautiful long-distance walks in the world. Finish your trip in Glasgow, perhaps celebrating with a wee dram of Scottish Whisky.

Scotland Leisurely Trip Plan

Those not inclined to take a multi-day hike through the Highlands can expand their trip into an ideal Scotland 14 Day Itinerary. Simply add one full day to each destination.

Start with 4 days in Edinburgh and make a day trip to St. Andrews or Dunbar, Scotland . Next, spend 3 days in Inverness, which allows time for two day trips in the Highlands. Then, explore Isle of Skye for 5 days, as there are still more sights to see on the south end of the island. The final 2 days of the trip are in Glasgow (allowing time to see top sights in the city’s vibrant West End).

Note that it is still possible to complete either 2-Week Scotland Itinerary by Train and Bus or by car.

Scotland and Ireland Itinerary 2 Weeks

Travelers often choose to create an itinerary for Scotland and Ireland – as there are numerous cheap flights between the two. We recommend planning a 2-Week Ireland and Scotland Itinerary that showcases the best of both countries.

To begin, use our above advice for 1 Week in Scotland, ending the trip in Glasgow. Fly from Glasgow to Dublin, Ireland – and use our 1 Week Ireland Itinerary to plan your perfect trip!

England, Scotland, Ireland 2 Week Itinerary

Planning a 2-Week England, Ireland, Scotland Itinerary? Fantastic! Our ideal 2-week trip includes 4 days in England, 5 days in Scotland and 5 days in Ireland.

Spend 3 Days in London exploring the top sights – and take one full day trip to either Windsor Castle  or Bath, England . Next, travel to Edinburgh for 2 days and then join this 3-Day Skye Highlands Tour .

From Edinburgh, fly to Shannon, Ireland. Spend 3 days exploring the Village of Doolin and Cliffs of Moher, along with the Aran Islands and Galway . Then, spend your last 2 days enjoying the Best Things To Do in Dublin . 

Travel Tips for Scotland

Now that you are well on your way to planning your best Scotland itinerary, we have some practical information and honest advice to share with you.

Best Time to Visit Scotland

Travelers should carefully consider when to visit Scotland. There are pros and cons to each season.

The weather in Scotland is notoriously unpredictable, but summer offers the best chance for sunshine – plus the days are long , which is ideal for sightseeing. On the downside, crowds can try your patience and prices are at their peak.

The shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can be even more hit and miss with weather. May is historically the driest month and autumn can be sublime. Of course, winter can come early and stay late, which could put a damper on your outdoor plans. The upside is that there are far fewer fellow tourists and prices are not so steep.

Winter is the least desirable time to visit Scotland for most people. The days are incredibly short and it rains…a lot. That said, Christmas in Edinburgh and the New Year Hogmanay celebration attract happy herds of revelers!

Getting To and From Scotland

In our outlined sample Scotland Itinerary for 10 Days, we recommend arriving in Edinburgh and departing from Glasgow. Travelers have a wide range of options to arrive and/or depart either by plane – and it is possible to take a train to both from London.

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow have international airports that are served by major air carriers, as well as regional UK flights.

Travelers who prefer to fly in and out of the same city can choose Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are numerous trains and buses that connect the two in less than 2 hours.

We recommend using Skyscanner to search for fares – but read our tips for Booking Flights for Cheap before booking!

Getting Around Scotland

As we have already mentioned, the outlined 10-Day Scotland Tour Itinerary can be completed with a car or with public transport. We shared bits of advice along the way, but we have a few more important things to consider.

Tips for Creating a 10-Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Travelers planning a Scotland driving itinerary can use this guide as is – but, with a car, it is possible to add a bit more sightseeing between destinations.

We do recommend taking a few tours in the outlined Itinerary for 10 Days in Scotland. We think tours can be a fun and stress-free way to sightsee, but travelers with a car can skip the tours and drive on their own.

Also, keep in mind that a car is not necessary in Edinburgh. Hold off renting a car until the fourth day of the trip. Find more rental car money-saving advice in our article, Rental Car Tips . 

Travel Tips for a Scotland Itinerary No Car

Scotland has an extensive network of trains and buses, making it possible for visitors to plan trips using only public transportation.

Planning a Scotland Itinerary by train and bus does require a bit more thought and attention to detail, but our outlined Scotland suggested itinerary is ideal for visitors without a car.

Travelers visiting Scotland during the busy summer months will want to buy tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased online – and we recommend buying directly from the company if possible.

Google Maps is generally accurate with train and bus schedules, but the official bus and train websites offer the most up-to-date info (especially in the case of Scottish transport strikes).

Where To Stay in Scotland

In our 10-Day Trip Plan for Scotland, we recommend staying in Edinburgh, Inverness, Portree and Glasgow. We are sharing our top hotel recommendations for each location.

Edinburgh Places To Stay

Hotels in Edinburgh fetch top dollar (especially in the summer) – and you should expect to pay around $300 USD per night…and even more at luxury hotels, like the posh 5-star Balmoral Hotel .

The centrally located Hotel Indigo on Princes Street offers a superb location, but more affordable accommodations – like the Elder York Guest House – are just a block away.

Budget travelers can find a dorm bed at Castle Rock Hostel for a comparable bargain.

Inverness Hotels

Accommodation in Inverness ranges from luxury stays to cozy B&Bs.

Ness Walk is the premier luxury hotel in Inverness and features an ideal location along the riverside. That said, Columba Hotel in the heart of the city offers nice rooms at more reasonable rates.

Visitors looking for a charming bed and breakfast should check availability at Drumdale B&B , which offers guests a warm welcome and an exceptional breakfast.

Portree, Isle of Skye Accommodations

While accommodations dot Skye Island, we think it is best to stay in Portree – where there’s the most restaurants, pubs, tours and transit options.

The Portree Cuillin Hills Hotel is a top-rated property that offers guest rooms with lovely bay views and excellent service – and is priced accordingly. The Royal Hotel is a more affordable option in the center of town.

Budget conscious travelers should check out Portree Youth Hostel , which has bunks in dorms, as well as private rooms.

Glasgow Places To Stay

Our top pick for a one-night stay in Glasgow is in the city center – and the boutique Carlton George Hotel is an ideal choice. Situated next to the Queen Street Rail Station, the hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms – plus complimentary drinks from the minibar!

What To Pack for your Scotland 10-Day Vacation

Our final tips are all about what to pack for your vacation to Scotland. You can find all of our packing advice on our Packing Tips Page . Need a checklist? Grab your FREE Packing Checklist here !

Comfortable Travel Shoes

Deciding what shoes to pack for a Scotland vacation is a big decision. You will need a pair of shoes that are comfortable for city walking, as well as hiking trails. It’s also best to wear quick-dry or waterproof shoes.

I typically travel wearing lightweight sneakers and Kris is always comfortable in these trail shoes . If you’re intending to take longer hikes in Scotland, consider also packing proper hiking boots .

We share more advice and reviews in our article, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Scottish Weather Gear

It’s often joked that while in Scotland, you can experience all four seasons in a single day. Therefore, you need to be prepared for the elements. A waterproof jacket is essential and a quality travel umbrella is also a good idea.

Of course, when the sun does come out, you will want to be prepared with sunscreen (or a travel hat that shades your face). It’s also smart to pack insect repellent that will keep away the midges (which are Scotland’s pesky, biting insects).

Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase on your 10-Day Scotland Itinerary – it’s best to also have a day bag where you can stow all your everyday items . We like to wear small backpacks when sightseeing, but there are many styles to choose from. Use our advice for the Best Day Packs for Travelers . 

Travel Camera

Scotland is magnificent – and you will want to upgrade to a real camera to capture the true beauty of the landscapes. We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens for our travels.

Not only does it take quality photos, it is easy to use and priced affordably – making it one of the best cameras for budget travelers .

UK Trip Insurance

Regardless of how well you plan your trip, things can go wrong. Lost luggage , canceled flights and getting sick abroad are just a few common trip mishaps. In many instances, a good travel insurance policy can help cover the costs incurred. If you don’t already have trip insurance, check the rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Travel Documents for Scotland

Of course, remember to pack all of your important travel documents – from your passport to printed confirmations to your Travel Planner ! We recommend tucking them into a zippered Travel Organizer . 

Start planning your trip to the United Kingdom ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

More Top European Vacation Destinations

• 2-Week London, Paris, Rome Trip Plan
• 1 Week in Spain
• Planning a Trip to Croatia
• What To See in Romania
• How To Plan a Trip to Greece
• 3 Days in Amsterdam
• One Week in Tuscany
• Best Lisbon Itinerary

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

• WATCH ME SEE | A SCOTLAND TRAVEL BLOG
• Privacy Policy

• Itinerary Review
• Ready-Made Itineraries
• Bespoke Itineraries
• Planning Your Trip
• Scottish Regions
• Free Checklist
• Scotland Itineraries
• All Blog Posts
• Where to go?
• Scotland Resource Library
• Scotland Travel Journal
• Meine Schottland Bücher
• About Watch Me See
• Work with Me
• In the Press

How to... , Scotland

How to plan a trip to scotland: everything you need to know to visit scotland.

On the map, Scotland looks like a tiny country, and indeed it measures just over 30,000 square miles and is just short of 5.5 million people. Yet when you plan a trip to Scotland, it can be an overwhelming challenge to figure out where to begin! Too many cities, islands, mountains, valleys, castles and lochs to choose from; all of them are worth a stop, but it’s impossible to see them all, no matter how much time you have. How on Earth are you going to plan the perfect trip to Scotland?

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Before you get stuck into comparing itineraries, researching off-beat destinations or must-have experiences in Scotland, let me run you through the basics of how to plan a trip to Scotland in the first place.

This guide will give you advice on the best time to visit Scotland, how much time you should plan to spend here, some suggested itineraries for your trip, advice on how to get around Scotland, some recommended bus tours, how to choose your perfect activities, a few hiking tips and finally, a selection of where to stay in Scotland.

By the end of the guide, you will have all the tools to plan an amazing trip to Scotland. And don’t forget, with my expertly designed Scotland itineraries you can hit the road running!

Dreaming of Scotland? Listen to my immersive travel podcast Wild for Scotland !

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

The impossible question – what is the best time of the year to visit Scotland? Fact is, that every season in Scotland has a different appeal and very often the weather does not actually differ that much from season to season.

Billy Connolly once said, there are only two seasons in Scotland, June and Winter. The weather is always unpredictable – even in June. No matter when you visit, you should be prepared to encounter all four seasons in one day.

That said there are other factors playing into this and give each season a different appeal. Certain animals can only be spotted during their active periods, such as whales or puffins, while some attractions close during certain months of the year.

It makes a difference whether you come for endless days, or to hunt the northern lights; want to see the Highland peaks covered in snow, or glistening in the sun. There are many festivals happening all over the country year-round.

If you are visiting Scotland with a purpose, make sure that the time of the year is right for you! My Scotland Travel Resource Library includes a month-by-month overview to help you decide.

Personally, I love travelling around Scotland in the spring and early summer (April to May) as well as autumn or fall (late August to November) . The offseason is a great time to visit for a number of reasons. In April and May, you already get the long summer days I love so much – and thus, more time to explore!

The dreaded Scottish midges haven’t hatched yet, and meadows and woodlands are springing to life with blooming flowers and baby animals! August no November can be great months for wildlife watching, witnessing the bloom of the purple heather and the turn of the seasons, as Scottish woodlands change colours. 

If Edinburgh is the main reason for your visit, make sure you are prepared to plan around big events in the city. Festival month in August can be super busy (and expensive) – but the city is bustling with life.

And the same counts for Christmas time and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) in December. Don’t forget to book your accommodation far in advance!

You might also like: 20 Tips for Winter Travel in Scotland

How much time should you spend in Scotland?

There is an easy answer to this question: as much time as you can. Yes, you could enter a tour de force through Scotland, spend a day or two in Edinburgh and then drive for hours to cover Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe over the weekend. But would you enjoy it? Probably not…

Spending at least one week or up to 10 days is the minimum to get a good overview of what Scotland has to offer. In that time you can easily fit a day or two exploring Edinburgh and then contrasting it with the more edgy city of Glasgow.

From there the Highlands are at your doorstep and you can spend a few days travelling around the mountains and islands. Or go off the beaten track to discover the northeast coast or southern Scotland -every region of the country offers plenty to do!

With fewer days, you will have to adjust your expectations accordingly and plan to cover less ground. I’ve made the mistake myself and tried to cover everything in a few days – and I failed; spending way too much time in the car and not enough exploring. Now I travel much slower and dedicate long weekends or full weeks to focus on different regions in Scotland.

There is so much to see, it would be a shame to rush through the country in pursuit of the far-flung tourist magnets of Scotland. Sometimes less (mileage) is more!

You might also like:  My Top 20 Places to Visit in Scotland

My Scotland itineraries

Check out my handy and easy-to-follow Scotland itineraries that will save you heaps of time on research, without compromising the quality of your trip!

If you’re travelling by bus & train, check out my Best of Scotland itinerary for public transport .

Find out how to choose the best Scotland itinerary for you!

How to Get around Scotland

These tips are all related to travelling IN Scotland. If you need help finding cheap airfare to Scotland, check out this post first!

Road trip, public transport or organised tours?

Once you have decided when to visit and how long to stay, the next question you should ask yourself is how to get around. Your mode of transport can have a huge impact on the most efficient route for your trip and how much is feasible in any given time frame. Your choices are to rent a car, utilise public transport or join an organised tour.

Do you feel comfortable enough with left-side traffic and narrow mountain roads that you can rent a car? Or would you rather travel eco-friendly and rely on public transport? On guided tours, transport is taken care of for the entire group and you don’t have to worry about anything – but is it enough flexibility?

You could even hitchhike, which I’m not going to recommend for obvious reasons – but it is a common practice especially among hikers and I’ve successfully done it myself. And then there is the option to simply use your feet and walk through Scotland on a long-distance hike.

Of course, whichever mode of transport through Scotland you chose will highly influence your experience in Scotland. Each option comes with advantages and disadvantages – here is a wee rundown of things to consider.

Hiring a Car in Scotland

The huge advantage of hiring a car in Scotland is that it offers maximum flexibility for your itinerary. However, you also have to bear the responsibility of driving and navigating yourself. Solo travellers, in particular, might find that driving takes away some of the joys of observing the scenery; or find it tiring.

Distances on the map of Scotland can be deceiving, particularly on smaller Highland roads where photo stops of campervans can slow down traffic. Don’t underestimate distances in Scotland, even if it looks small on the map.

In my experience, it is much better to plan shorter driving days and reduce mileage, than trying to cram in as many miles as possible.

Personally, I think hiring a car is the best way to get around Scotland because many of my favourite places can only be reached by car. Most of my itineraries are written with a rental car in mind and it is my preferred mode of transport when I travel myself.

However, remember that other feasible options do exist and a road trip is not the Holy Grail of planning a trip to Scotland.

I usually book my rental cars with Auto Europe , a platform that compares prices from several rental agencies and offers comprehensive and affordable insurance packages – much cheaper than getting it directly from the rental agency. That way I can ensure I definitely get the best deal!

Remember, you do not need an international driver’s license . Your license from home should be sufficient, but it is important to learn the local traffic rules. This online guide by Tripiamo can help you with that – it contains short and informative videos as well as guided drives with real footage from British roads.

Pros | Flexible itinerary and time management; That road trip feeling!

Cons |  Potentially more expensive; More responsibility; Distraction from the gorgeous views (at least for the driver)

TIPS FOR DRIVING Top Tips for Hiring a Car in Scotland 21 Driving Tips for Scotland How to Drive on Single-track Roads Tripiamo’s car & motorbike guide for the UK The Most Scenic Road Trips in Scotland

Scotland by Public Transport

Public transport in Scotland offers an extensive network of buses, trains and ferries, which is reliable and safe to use. Combining trains, buses and ferries you can travel the entire country – you might just need a bit more time and flexibility to reach every destination on my itineraries.

Scottish Trains & Buses

Journeys by train or bus through the Highlands can be super scenic, as they often travel down remote routes. Many of Scotland’s most popular destinations, like Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, Oban or Fort William can be easily reached from Glasgow or Edinburgh by public transport – but it will take longer than by car and you can’t stop along the way.

If you choose to travel around Scotland by public transport, I highly recommend reducing the number of destinations you’d like to cover and taking your time to explore slowly.

Most trains are operated by Scotrail – although there are other companies operating between England and Scotland. I usually buy tickets in advance – they’re typically released 90 days in advance.

There are many different bus operators in Scotland. Local buses are often operated by First or Stagecoach, but there are also cheap intercity bus connections with Megabus or Citylink. It’s best to bok popular routes in advance!

I usually use Google Maps to look up public transport connections, but it does not always list all local buses in remote areas. In those cases, I use Traveline Scotland instead.

Keep track of your travel memories with my Scotland Travel Journal !

Taking Scottish Ferries

Of course, Scotland is a also great destination for island hopping. There are two major ferry operators, Northlink Ferries (to Orkney & Shetland) and CalMac (to the Inner & Outer Hebrides), as well as a number of smaller private operators servicing islands up and down the coast of Scotland.

Many islands can easily be visited without a car, but public transport is not always available on the islands – that means walking, hiring bikes or a local taxi as a travel guide!

If you plan an island-hopping itinerary with a hire car, I highly recommend booking all ferry tickets in advance as there is limited capacity and some popular crossings (especially to Skye, Mull, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Arran).

If you travel by public transport and board ferries as a passenger without a car, booking in advance is not necessary, but can bring ease of mind. 

While sailing to the Outer Hebrides or Shetland takes several hours (overnight to Shetland), other islands, such as Arran, Mull or Skye are within much quicker reach. Major ferry ports you might consider as a starting point are Ardrossan, Oban , Mallaig or Ullapool. You can reach all of them by public transport, so car-free island-hopping is totally possible.

As you can imagine, each island has a different appeal and just because you’ve heard about one over and over again (Skye) does not mean it is necessarily the best island for you. There are many beautiful alternatives to the Isle of Skye . Check out my overview of Scottish islands to help you make an informed decision for your island itinerary!

Hooked on islands?  A Complete Guide to Using Ferries in Scotland

Public Transport Travel Passes

If you are looking for a simple solution to your public transport itinerary, travel passes by Scotrail might be the best solution. There are several options offering unlimited travel in certain regions or a set amount of travel days within a certain time frame. Most include trains, buses and ferries. Before you buy, look up individual ticket costs to make sure the travel pass is worth it!

Pros |  Environmentally friendly; Extensive network, easy to navigate; Time to focus on views

Cons |  Less flexible itinerary; More time-intense

Guided Tours of Scotland

Joining a guided tour of Scotland is the so-called “carefree” option. Everything is taken care of – transport, routes and in some cases even accommodation or meals.

There are many Scottish tour operators to choose from, and they can vary in group sizes, prices, itineraries and target demographics. I’d recommend to shop around and read reviews before you decide on a tour around Scotland.

I’ve done quite a few guided tours, with companies such as Rabbie’s, Timberbush Tours or Highland Explorer Tours – you can check out my reviews and find specific booking links below.

Generally, I would recommend doing multi-day tours rather than several individual day tours – mainly because it saves a lot of driving time and in my experience, the itinerary will be more relaxed.

Pros | Worry-free travel experience; Experienced tour guide on board

Cons | You’re “stuck” with the prescribed itinerary; Potentially too little time at each destination

Recommended Scotland Bus Tours

Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Timberbush (similar tour from Edinburgh here) – Read my REVIEW! Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Rabbie’s  – they also offer a 1-day Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh !  Read my REVIEW! Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Northumberland : 1-day tour from Edinburgh with Timberbush Tours – Read my REVIEW! Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Rabbie’s – a similar 1-day tour to Stirling Castle from Edinburgh also includes Loch Lomond and a stop at the Kelpies!  Read my REVIEW! Outlander Day Tour : 1-day Outlander tour from Edinburgh with Highland Explorer Tours – Timberbush Tours and Rabbie’s also offer Outlander day tours from Glasgow!  Read my REVIEW! Isle of Arran Adventure : 3-day tour from Glasgow  with Rabbie’s – but you can also book this tour from Edinburgh !  Read my REVIEW!

Decide what to Do & See in Scotland

It really is not hard to find things to do and see in Scotland – it really is more about making a feasible list of priorities.

Do you want to delve into the country’s rich history and see castles and museums – or rather immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscape? Are you a thrill-seeker in search for kayaking, mountaineering or skiing adventures – or do you prefer it more mellow with boat rides, leisurely walks and culinary delights?

From my Scotland regions page , you can click through to different areas to visit in Scotland .

I like to plan a good mix of things and activities when I visit a new country. For Scotland I suggest you see at least one castle , do at least one easy or intermediate hike , spend a day on the road/on the train/on the bus to see the landscape, take one ferry , spend one day in the city , go to the pub and see some live music , and visit a whisky (or gin) distillery .

I summed up these ideas and more in my post 20 Experiences for Scotland First Timers .

Need more advice? 50 practical travel tips for Scotland How to Save Money in Scotland – 50 Top Tips A Complete Packing List for Scotland 16+ Outdoor Activities in Scotland

Hiking Tips for Scotland

Although the mountains in the Highlands are not as tall as in the Alps or other popular mountain ranges, you need to be very careful when hiking in these hills.

The weather is unpredictable and fog can lock you in within minutes. Paths in the Highlands are rarely signposted and even if they are marked on the map, they could be barely visible in real life. Often sheep or deer trails look a lot like trails, but then, of course, they end nowhere – or worse, lead off a cliff…

A great introduction to hiking in Scotland is this video guide for bagging Munros ! 

If you plan to go hiking in Scotland, here are a few essential hiking tips for the Highlands:

• Bring a  map  and a compass , and know how to use them. If you’re not an experienced navigator, stick to very popular routes that are well signposted.
• Bring plenty of water for every hiker in your party – water might never be far in the Scottish Highlands, but sometimes accessing it is trickier than you’d think.
• Wear warm, wind- and waterproof clothes & sturdy shoes (ideally,  hiking boots that support your ankles). I talk about some of my essential hiking equipment and items I pack for every Scotland trip in this post .
• Don’t forget your  headtorch , just in case you lose your way and it falls dark.

My number 1 online resource for trail information and descriptions is Walk Highlands  which also has a great page on mountain safety in Scotland!

And if you fancy other outdoor activities, check out these activities for summer, winter and adrenaline junkies !

You might also like: The 20 Best Hikes in Scotland  – for Beginners and Munro-Baggers

Wonder how I plan my long-distance hikes? Check out my step-by-step guide for planning a self-guided walking holiday in Scotland  for more tips.

Where to stay in Scotland

In Scotland, there are many accommodation options you can choose from, ranging from top-notch luxury hotels and boutique B&Bs to more basic guest houses, inns or hostels.

If you are on a really tight budget, consider camping (during the summer months) or renting a campervan to have your home with you at all times. You can also go wild camping in Scotland .

Personally, I love renting out entire cottages to feel like I have a real home away from home.

Download my free Scotland Trip Planning Checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important !

Hotels in Edinburgh | Can be very expensive, especially during the summer and Christmas season. Here are some of my favourite options for all budgets.

Hotels in Glasgow | Are much easier to come by, more affordable but increasingly popular! Check out my favourites for all budgets .

Hotels & B&Bs in the Highlands | Range from basic to luxury. Highland and island accommodation should be booked in advance, as the houses often have fewer rooms. Usually, they are well located near public transport and in scenic spots. I find Booking.com  to be a great resource to find independent B&Bs, hotels or guesthouses.

Hostels | The Scottish Youth Hostel Association runs many hostels throughout the country, but I also love staying at one of the Scottish Independent Hostels.

Self-catering | As I mentioned above, I love renting out entire cottages, cabins or houses. It is a great way to find some incredibly unique accommodation in the Scottish countryside!

Looking for unique experiences?  Check out my Favourite  Unique Places to Stay in Scotland  – from hotels to B&Bs!

Should I book ahead?

This might just be the most asked question about accommodation (and ferries) in Scotland – should you book your accommodation ahead of time? The simple answer is YES!

Accommodation in Scotland is fairly easy to come by, but not everywhere has an endless capacity.

If you visit popular and potentially sparsely populated places, like the Isle of Skye, North Coast 500 , Orkney, the Hebrides or the Isle of Mull, you have to book accommodation in advance – unless you plan to wild camp. Even campsites can fill up quickly during the summer months!

I’d give similar advice for ferries. I understand that it’s nice to keep your itinerary flexible, especially if you travel with a camper and/or a tent, but except for Skye, ferries are the only way to get on and off the islands.

Capacity is limited and popular sailing times (usually the ones that allow you to maximise your days in the destination) can book up quickly in advance.

Book your ferry tickets as early as possible , or prepared to be flexible in case your preferred time is not available anymore. Foot passengers usually don’t have to worry, but can buy the ticket on arrival half an hour before the sailing time.

This guide should have given you a thorough idea of how to plan a trip to Scotland. The first decisions are often the hardest, but once you know when and how long you will visit Scotland, how you want to get around Scotland and what sort of activities you are interested in, it is time to plan your actual itinerary.

Are you ready to plan a trip to Scotland?

Need more advice?   I offer  travel planning services  that range from honest feedback on your planned itinerary to creating customised routes for you and your travel party!

Pin this post for later:

Planning a trip to Scotland?

Download my FREE Trip Planning Checklist

Join my Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures

Listen to my podcast Wild for Scotland for lots of travel inspiration

Use my Scotland Travel Journal to document your trip

Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library

Save time and get one of my pick-up-and-go Scotland itineraries

Beat the overwhelm and hire me to plan a bespoke itinerary for you

77 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Scotland: Everything you Need to Know to Visit Scotland ”

I believe you! I have been once in my life and my dream is to come back to Scotland again and again and again. I felt at home.

Hi Kathi. We’re beginning to plan our once in a lifetime trip to Scotland. It will be our 30th wedding anniversary this year. We definitely want to explore Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness and everything in between. Both of our heritages are from Scotland near the Inverness area. We are hoping to see as much as we can. We’re interested in landscape, history/heritage, castles/royalty, the highlands, local people and fantastic food. One of the things we want to see is the Military Tattoo so obviously we will need to go in August. We aren’t interested in guided tours because we’d rather do things at our own pace and not be “herded” about. We’re interested in a more relaxing vacation but yet we want to do and see as much as we can. We have many questions like, should we rent a car or go with public transport? Should we choose one place to stay the entire time or should we stay in different places? What days of the week are cheaper to fly and how far in advance should we purchase our flights to get the best deal? What itinerary would you suggest? So many questions! We’re hoping you can help. We only have one chance to get this right.

Hi Michele, thanks for your comment! Why don’t you send me an email to [email protected] and I’ll explain how I can help! Cheers, Kathi

Pingback: The Best Ways For You To Enjoy Scotland - Mercadosclasicos.com

Pingback: The Best Ways For You To Enjoy Scotland | Ticket Bucks

I’m a teacher and want to plan my month long DREAM vacation to Scotland. This trip will need to be either in the month of June or July. I could always shorten my trip and go in December for 3 weeks, but I think I would like the flexibility of my summer months off. I would love all suggestions and advice. I’m 47 and believe I will be exploring on my on, embracing the culture and the beauty that Scotland has to offer. All advice is much welcome!

Hi Tina, I’d be delighted to help you put together an itinerary for your trip. Going in June/July (peak season) you want to make sure you pick some less busy spots as the summer months get pretty crowded in the well-known beauty spots. Check out my itinerary planning services: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ For long trips I tend not to do a day-by-day itinerary, but rather help you find good places to base yourself and make suggestions for day trips from there. Happy to chat!

Hello, Thanks for a very nice blog. I am visiting Glasgow on an official trip and will have 1 Saturday to go around Scotland. I am thinking of visiting Oban, Glencoe, highlands on my own but the problem is, I can leave for the tour even at 6 AM but have to be back in Glasgow by 1700 hrs, to catch my flight back to my country. Do you think it is possible for me to do it on my own and if so, what public transport will be the best. I am unable to gather much information from internet so any help would he highly appreciated. Regards

Hi Sughanda, thanks for your question! Doing Oban and Glencoe by public transport in a day AND being back in Glasgow by 5 pm seems impossible to me – or rather, not really worth it. You’d be spending the majority of your time on the bus or train, and not very much actually seeing these places. I recommend checking time tables on Scotrail (for trains to Oban and then Traveline or Google Maps (for buses to Glencoe and back to Glasgow). I hope this helps! Alternatively, you could find a private driver to take you round the sites you want to see for the day – there are many you can find via Google or in Facebook groups for Scotland travel. Have you considered going to Loch Lomond for the day instead? It’s gorgeous and much easier to get to! All the best, Kathi

My family of three will be Edinburgh from 2 Sept. We plan to have a 6 day tour around Glasgow and surroundings. Will appreciate your recommendation on places, hotels and car renting.

Looking forward to your comments.

Hi Samuel, thanks for your comment! Have you had a look at my 7-day itinerary? You could easily adapt this to fit your requirements: https://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ I would normally suggest my travel consultation service for a customised itinerary, but I’m afraid I’m fully booked at the moment and can’t accept last-minute trips so soon. I hope you have a lovely trip ti Scotland! All the best, Kathi

Yeah, I’m planning a trip to Scotland not exactly I got a seat in Scotland University of Strathclyde located in Glasgow, Scotland…..I’m so excited to visit Scotland for my holidays as to explore many places meanwhile this blog has shared a wonderfully informative blog which is helpful for the travel guides!

Wow, I love this! my husband and I are planning on jumping across the pond to visit Scotland! It is my number one Bucket List location

Amazing, I hope you get to go and will have an awesome time! Thanks for taking a moment to leave a comment 🙂

Hi Kathi,, My wife and I are planning to do some time in Scotland while we still have time, she’s 70, I’m 78. We’re not too concerned about the cities, we did Edinburgh some years ago, and would prefer now to see the scenic side of the country. Ideally we want to see Skye, Shetland, or other Isles you may recommend, and take a leisurely look at what we believe to be the most beautiful end of our island.. We anticipate travelling from home, in Bedfordshire, to Scotland, either by train or plane, and then hiring a car to help us get around. I feel it may be better to chat with you rather than spend all the time I could spend and only get a small proportion of the benefit we hoped to get. If you could open the doors for us by giving us an idea of cost for a 10 day itinery from you, and maybe we could make a start.

Pete and Carolyn O’Meara

Hello Pete & Carolyn, many thanks for reading my blog and for taking the time to comment! I’d be delighted to help you with your itinerary and put something special together for you! Take a look at my consultation page which lists my prices and get in touch to discuss details! https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ I hope to hear from you soon! Kathi

Hi Kathi, thank you for the great & informative post. I am based in Milton Keynes. I intend to travel to Scotland in May 2019 with my family. I have been to Edinburgh & Glasgow few times but nothing apart from that in Scotland. If I have to get a glimpse/feel of the highlands in 3-4 days, what would you recommend? Based in which city (preferably city to fly into) to plan the itinerary?? I would really appreciate your guidance. Thank you.

Hi Nitin, thanks for taking the time to comment and your question! If you want to fly into a city in the Highlands, your best option is probably Inverness! It’s a good base for do trips in the area, to see the scenery and avoid long drives from Edinburgh. I hope that helps!

What a great resource you have! Thinking of visiting in the fall. How are midges in that season? I’d like to surprise my wife with horseback riding on a beach. Is that possible?

Hi Bill, midges usually hatch towards the end of May and stick around until it gets cooler at the end of September. That said, they are not necessarily such a big issue unless you camp and can’t escape from them. They mostly come out in the morning and early evening, so it’s not like they’d bother you all day.

There are a few places for horseback riding around the country. I recently came across a riding centre near Glasgow that can arrange a hack on the beach not too far from the city – might be a nice option!

I’d be delighted to help you plan a unique surprise trip and itinerary – check out my services here: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/

Nice blog post . Thank you.

I really appreciate your tip to choose a guided tour that has all of the proper transportation that you will need. That way, you can keep your worries at home when you go on your guided tour. My wife and I have been thinking of taking an anniversary trip to a new country, and I know that my wife would love to have no stress on our trip!

Totally agree – a guided tour can take away so much stress and pressure. Especially in the UK – I feel everybody’s anxiety about driving on the left side of the road 😀 Maybe Scotland will be your next trip?

Thanks! I plan on reading all of your posts on Scotland. I am heading there this June (2019) with my mother and my 3 children (boys ages at time of trip 13, 12, & 7). We will be in Scotland for one whole month (all of June), and plan on renting a car. Do you have any advice for travel with kids, or major points we should during a month long trip.

WOW what a trip! You’ll be able to fit a lot in 😉 Want to send me an email? I offer trip planning services and well as itinerary reviews ( https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ ) and would love to help! Kathi x

Hi Kathi, What a great post (and all the others linked in). I am planning to visit Scotland in 2019 as a solo female traveller. I’m looking to hire a vehicle for maximum flexibility as I’m looking to base myself out of three or four different bases during the 2 weeks. I’m worried that on my own, I won’t get to experience ‘authentic’ Scotland, and some of the activities/experiences that you may get with a tour group. I really want to get an appreciation for the towns/areas that I visit, and the people that live there – do you have any recommendations of how I can achieve this? I don’t want to travel all that way and end up just wandering around by myself the entire time! Thanks for your help.

Thanks for your question!! It really depends on where you’re going… my top advice would be, don’t be shy – just start talking to people in pubs or in shops etc. I just spent 2 weeks alone in the Hebrides, and had lots of nice experiences just because I started chatting. Scottish people are super friendly and always up for a chat! This might be a bit harder in Edinburgh, since there are many more tourists there, but everywhere else you’ll meet loads of people just like that! In smaller communities there might be community activities you could join – especially now in the summer. I’d check local council websites and ask at the places you’re staying at. If you find a ceilidh, go for it!!

Thanks for your advice – appreciate it.

Pingback: The Travel Blogger's Guide to Scotland - The Travel Hack

I like that you said that guided tours give you a “care-free” travel experience. I usually start to stress out whenever I plan something and this would really help me out. I think that this would be a great option for our extended family vacation this summer.

Thanks for the informative post! My husband and I are hoping to go to Scotland in October. From what I’ve read that’s a good time for colors. Is this true? Also, do the ferries run in October?

Hi Deb, you can check ferry timetables here: https://www.calmac.co.uk/summer-timetables – switch to winter time tables is on Oct 22. There is also NorthLink Ferries, but they only service Orkney and Shetland, while Calmac goes to all the other islands. The colours in Fall are indeed beautiful, but if you’re looking for foliage, you obvs. need to go to areas with lots of woodlands. Perth or the Trossachs are good for that! The Highlands have less woodlands, but the bracken on the hills turns all orange and is also very pretty! Have a lovely trip!

I have dropped you an email. Kindly revert on it

Hey, I chanced upon this website while planning my Scotland trip and found it very informative. I am planning a 5 day trip to Scotland in the first week of July with my husband and 20 month old. We are majorly interested in exploring the natural beauty, some places of historical significance(castles etc) and maybe a tour to a distillery. We plan to come from London by flight and would then rent a car, It would be great if you could suggest a five day itinerary keeping in mind that hiking would not be possible with the toddler.

Hello Surabhi, thanks for your comment and question! Have you seen my 7-day itinerary ( https://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ )? You could use this as a basis and cut things out to make it shorter – I would suggest to probably not go further north than Fort William if you only have 5 days and focus on shorter drives with your toddler instead. If you’d like more help with your itinerary, please consider booking travel consultation with me – I’d be happy to make you a detailed suggestion for a 5-day itinerary with a toddler and including the things you mentioned (best for views, castles, whisky distillery, no hiking): https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ I look forward to hear from you! Cheers, Kathi

Love this site and all the advice! I’m planning a week trip to scotland with my mom and sister from Sweden. I love the best of scotland one week itinerary but want to spend potentially an extra day exploring glencoe, loch lomond and fort william. Only problem is we won’t be driving so all travel has to be by public transport, ferries etc. Is it possible to do the one week best of scotland itinerary without a car? if we were to cut out loch ness and inverness and make our way to edinburgh and then finally glascow (as thatswe’re we are flying to and from) would we be able to make it in 8 days, having spent that extra time in glencoe and loch lomond?

All the best,

Hi Isra, Thanks for your question! The public transport system in Scotland is great and covers all of the areas that I mention in my 7-day itinerary, however not all of the stops I write about will be possible – either because the bus-/train-route doesn’t pass there or there is no option/time to get off. Honestly, instead of cutting Loch Ness and Inverness, I would cut Skye, because going from Skye to Edinburgh by public transport you have to go past Loch Ness and Inverness either way. Instead of spending 8-9 hours on transport between Portree and Edinburgh without stops (~ Day 6), you could make your journey more leisurely by cutting Skye and exploring along the route you have to go anyways.

If you want any help with route planning or alternative suggestions, you can have a look at my travel consultation page and send me an email! https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/

I hope this if helpful for now, but I’d also be happy to plan an itinerary for you 😉 Cheers, Kathi

Pingback: North East Scotland Itinerary: One Week in Scotland

Wonderful advice! So helpful! Thanks a million! Travelling in May!

I’m happy you find it useful! May is a lovely time in Scotland – have a fab trip!

Wow! I love how comprehensive this guide is…it really answers so many questions and provides so much information!

I’m glad you enjoyed it! Do you have a trip to Scotland coming up?

Oh wow, such an amazing guide. I have always wanted to visit Scotland, and I will definitely bookmark this for when I get back to Europe! Thanks for sharing!

Such a thorough guide, thanks for sharing! I’ve lived in London for 5 years and never made it up to Scotland, I think it’s time for a trip! I also love your photos 🙂

Hi Greta, oh wow – you really should come up here! It’s such a beautiful country! Have you been able to travel much around England though?

Pingback: 50 Useful Travel Tips for Scotland | Watch Me See

Pingback: 5 Reasons not go to the Isle of Skye and where to head instead

Hi Kathi, So happy to stumble upon found you – my daughter and I are planning a trip to Scotland June 2018 – both of us single (19 and 52) and happy to hear your comments being on the safe side to travel. Just trying to narrow down all we want to do in 17 days!

Hi Lisa, happy you found me! 17 days is a great amount of time to see a lot of different sides of Scotland. You could take my one week itinerary as a starting point http://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ , and add a few days here and there, maybe some time in the Cairngorms or Fife, some more time on the islands, more time in Glasgow & Edinburgh – opportunities are endless! Let me know if you need any help planning – I’m offering travel planning services for Scotland! (Just not on the website yet…)

Kathi thank you so much for your blog I’m rtravelling on my own in Scotland this sept and the info here is priceless you don’t give day tours by any chance? I have made copious notes and I’ve a tons of planning to do. You blog link booked marked thank you again ! Carolyne

Hi Carolyne, I’ve actually just created a profile on Showaround to give offering tours a shot ( https://www.showaround.com/locals/9723790 ). It should let you book me as a tour guide for Glasgow – but I could also show you around Edinburgh! I don’t have a car, so cities are my stomping ground at the moment 😉 I also help people plan their itineraries for a small fee – I don’t have this up on the website yet, as I’ve been test-running it for a few months so far. Drop me an email if you’re interested!

your blog is really interesting. I will be coming on September and i would like to explore Scotland! how i can be in touch with you to offer me a tour guide. thank you

Heya, I see you’ve already found me on Instagram 😉 I also signed up with Showaround, so you could book me for a day tour of Glasgow or in the surrounding area! This is my profile: https://www.showaround.com/locals/9723790 You’d have to sign up, add your travel dates and I can send you an offer if I’m available! Cheers, Kathi

Kathi, so glad I found your page. The wealth of information is helpful. I’m attempting to plan our first 10 day trip to Scotland in October 2018 and I look forward to find out more info from you. I’m in my 40’s and likely the lovely lady above put it fluffy but adventurous with by best friend who’s in the same boat. I assertain that you think public transit and day trips are a more cost affective way to see the area without the tour congestion?

I’m glad you find my content useful 🙂 In October there are definitely fewer tourists, nothing compared to the summer months. Public transport is not necessarily cheaper than renting a car, but a great way to travel without having to figure out driving on the left. Busses are certainly cheaper and the network is very useful. Many train lines also offer great views. So there are many advantages of taking public transport!!

Pingback: 8 Reasons why Scotland is Perfect for Female Solo Travellers

Kathi, your post, which I read on Pintrest, is very helpful! I am going to Scotland for 10 days in May, 2017 to visit my granddaughter who is a college student in Edinburgh. One big concern: I am a lady in my 70’s and am rather “fluffy” in stature but a little adventurous! I am worried about accessibility for older people with some physical limitations. A 5 day bus trip to Skye with Rabbe is planned and the other days will be in Edinburgh and Glasgow on our own. Do you think I will need trekking poles? Waterproof shoes?? I plan to bring along my sense of humor and optimism!

Hi Sharon, thanks for commenting and your question! With Rabbie’s you’re in good hands – their tour guides are really nice and considerate! I just had a quick look at that particular tour to see what stops are included. I would most definitely bring waterproof shoes no matter what you do in Scotland, but they don’t necessarily have to be hiking boots. Trekking shoes should be enough. May is the driest month, but if it only rains once, you’ll be happy you brought them. Make sure you have a good waterproof jacket though that also keeps the wind out! Trekking poles can be very helpful, it really depends on what activities you chose to do on Skye. For the hike in the Quiraing and the visit at the Neist Point lighthouse, I’d take them, just to be sure. The garden of Dunvegan Castle or the area of Kilt Rock are really just leisurely strolls on gravel paths. I think Scotland is a great place for seniors to visit – the natural beauty is overwhelming, but it’s not hidden away so only highly adventurous outdoors folk can see it! A lot of the most beautiful viewpoints are accessible by car! You’ll see 🙂

I hope you have a fantastic trip!! Have you had a look at my Skye post yet? http://watchmesee.com/blog/things-to-do-isle-of-skye/

I’m visiting Scotland again this late winter and am looking forward to exploring more of the islands as I’ve always stuck to the cities in the past. Glad I found this blog 🙂

Well, welcome to the family 🙂 Let me know if you have any questions for places to go, or things to do. Where are you heading in the islands?

Pingback: The Classic Scotland Itinerary for One Week | Watch Me See

Hello! So glad I bumped into your blog! I’m planning my first solo travel next month, 12 days of Scotland, and this really really helps me! Looking forward to it. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Yasmin, oh I’m so glad you found my blog – I hope it gives you loads of inspiration and ideas for your trip! 12 days is a great amount of time as well for a first trip here – do you already know where you want to go? x

Hi Katie – I just came back from Scotland and I fell in love with it. I did 14 days and it was not nearly enough to see and do all I wanted. I did post my quite aggressive itinerary on my blog if you wish to see what my family and I did. Scotland is so incredibly beautiful and you are so right it seems like a small country but the winding roads that are sometimes single track make for a longer than expected road trip. But the visit is definitely worth it and I think everyone should experience Scotland.

Thanks for your comment – I’m so glad you had a great trip and it sounds like you will need to return as well! I love your blogposts and will share them on my networks as well! Need to find the PUFFINS!!! 😀

So glad you loved my blog posts. Looking forward to reading more of yours. Going to go find you on instagram also 🙂 Happy Roving!!!

Hi Kathi, loved reading your blog and subscribed to get more. My husband & I are going for a week in September for our 45th anniversary. Can’t wait to see the beautiful country and meet the people. We’re actually spending our 1st week in Ireland and the 2nd week in Scotland. Looking forward to reading more of your blog!

Thanks for your comment! That sounds like a fantastic trip! I’ve never been to Ireland sadly, but I’ll definitely write loads about the best places to go in Scotland by then 😀 Are you flying between Ireland and Scotland or taking the ferry?

I recently returned from an incredible 10 day trip to Scotland! Be sure and take an umbrella and rain boots, to be covered for the occasional drizzle, which for the most part will not impede your plans. Plan a day or two in both Glasgow and Edinburgh, a day at Luss and on Loch Lomond, few days in the highlands; both West and North, and time in Skye. Hit at least one “local” (non-franchised) pub, where the locals gather, in order to get the real flavour of song, conversation, and entertainment. Tour one castle still in authentic ruins, one cathedral, one museum, on distillery, one football (soccer) game, and then most importantly, interact with the Scots . . . It’s the only way to really step into the wonders of the country. Ask for directions, chat, get lost, and do it all over again if you have to, just so you can engage and beg upon their incredible warmth and hospitality. “They,” and my incredible Rabbies tour guide, John Mc Dermott, MADE me fall in love with Scotland! Believe it or not, confused and a bit lost as I attempted to leave Glasgow on the train back to our hotel in Clydebank, one evening, the kindest, most fun couple literally “picked me up” while on the train. They got off at my same stop, and ended up taking me to their house, feeding me, treating me to lovely drinks and desserts, and then drove me back to my hotel where we all socialised into the wee hours of the night. It was amazing, and I’m quite sure such an event would never happen in the states! They’ve become friends for life, and will be traveling to the states next year, where we will meet up again. I’ve become fb friends with several native Scot, including John, who continues to treat me to travels by his incredible photography on the Internet. Scotland is magical when you gather the perfect ingredients: the people, the music, the food, the legends, the natural scenery, and being open to every oppotunity that comes your way, planned or not. I held back the tears when I left . . . it was just that wonderful, and I can’t wait to go back!

Thank you so much for your comment Mary! I’m so happy to hear you had such a fantastic time in Scotland and with Rabbies – and indeed the people make the entire country so special! I think John might have been my tour guide too, but I’m not 100% sure as I only did a day trip and it’s been a few months since then.

I’m usually not one for the umbrella but prefer a rain coat so I still have my hands free and because of the wind – but I’ll make sure to talk about Scottish weather on the blog at some point soon. It’s something to get used to…

Thanks again, and I hope Scotland sees you again soon! 🙂

It’s just what that place does to you!! Thanks for your comment!

Pingback: A Perfect Day Hike: Ben A'an | WatchMeSee.com

Scotland is one of the countries I wanted to visit. This is a great post! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks for your comment! I can’t recommend visiting Scotland enough 😀

I’ve been all over Europe and somehow haven’t made it to Scotland yet, after reading your post and looking at your pictures it is definitely on my list. Thanks for sharing on the Girls V. Globe linkup! It would be interesting to see what it’s like “walking” your way through Scotland.

Hi Katie, thanks for your comment! I will be writing about the walking bit later on. There are several long-distance walks criss-crossing the country, and I’m planning to walk the most popular one this summer. It’s called the West Highland Way 🙂 Scotland is definitely worth a trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scotland by Train Itinerary (with Scenic Rail Journeys)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Are you planning to visit Scotland? Have you considered a Scottish road trip but decided that’s not for you and would rather travel Scotland by train?

Over the years we have explored Scotland by both train and by car and as an alternative to our Scottish road trip itinerary, we decided to put together a detailed itinerary for those of you who would prefer to take the train.

You will be pleased to hear that travelling around Scotland by train is fairly easy as the railways operate on a route map that is not difficult to navigate in a generally circular direction (with a bus/car/taxi link in between as there are no trains on the Isle of Skye)

Our Scotland by rail itinerary also includes some of the most scenic rail journeys Scotland has to offer with breathtaking scenery and a welcoming rich history and heritage. 

Add this Scotland train itinerary to our best of Britain by rail itinerary for the holiday of a lifetime. Perfect for train lovers and those who like to sit back and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Map of the route

Edinburgh – day 1, edinburgh days 2 – 3, accommodation options in edinburgh (near waverley train station), accommodation options in glasgow, accommodation options in oban, day 6 – oban, accommodation options in fort william, day 8 – fort william, accommodation options in portree on the isle of skye, day 10 to 11 – isle of skye, accommodation options in inverness, day 13 – inverness, day 14 – inverness to edinburgh.

• Train Passes

More UK rail travel tips and inspiration

Overview of the scotland by rail itinerary.

✅ The itinerary starts in the beautiful Scottish capital city of Edinburgh before you set off west towards Glasgow.

✅ After a day in Glasgow head to Oban to explore the islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa before a train ride to Fort William (the gateway to the Scottish Highlands).

✅ Embark on a short ferry ride from Mallaig to Armadale and onto the stunning Isle of Skye (this bit of the itinerary has to be taken by bus, taxi or tour) .

✅ A bus from Skye over the bridge will take you back to rejoin the train line at the Kyle of Lochalsh and a scenic ride to Inverness.

✅ The final train journey to Edinburgh through the beautiful Cairngorms National Park completes the journey.

For each destination included in this Scotland by train itinerary, we have included recommendations of what to see and do, accommodation options plus practical tips and details to help you on your way.

We have also included the distances between destinations and the estimated time it will take you to travel each leg of the journey.

Scotland by train itinerary

Days 1-3  edinburgh.

Perhaps you are planning to fly into Edinburgh or take the train to Edinburgh from London (or another UK destination)?

If you arrive by plane it is good to know that the connection from Edinburgh airport to the city centre is served by a frequent tram service that takes around 30 mins. A single ticket is around £6.50 and a return is £9.  The return ticket is open for a return journey at any time (even months later).

If you arrive by train you will alight the train at Edinburgh Waverley Station which is located on Princes Street in the centre of the city.

There is much to see and do in Edinburgh. The city caters to all interests, including history, walking, royal and military fans as well as whisky fans.

It really is impossible to visit everything the city has to offer in 2 days so we recommend prioritising your must-see items when planning your itinerary.

Highlights of Edinburgh include

• Historic Edinburgh Castle
• The Royal Mile
• Climb Arthur’s Seat and look at the Views
• The Port of Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia
• The Palace of Holyrood House. 
• Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Taking a ghost tour
• Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

Read – 27 things to do in Edinburgh

If this isn’t your first visit to Edinburgh (or you prefer to explore further afield and can base yourself in the city for a few more days) why not take a day trip by train? Destinations within easy reach of Edinburgh include

• Leuchars (for St Andrews golf course)

All are approx 1 hour from Edinburgh except Aberdeen which takes around 2.5 hours)

Read – Best day trips by train from Edinburgh

Alternatively, join an organised day tour from Edinburgh. Popular choices include this Outlander

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Edinburgh –  The Balmoral
• 🛌  Best B&B in Edinburgh –  The Elder York Guest House
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Edinburgh –  Holiday Inn Express Royal Mile

Day 4 – Edinburgh to Glasgow

📍 On Day 4 it’s time to depart from Edinburgh and head to Scotland’s most populous city – Glasgow.  

🕘 This is a short train journey and only takes around 50 minutes.

✅ There are multiple services available daily.

🔎 During the train journey look out for the Kelpies in Falkirk. These are the 30-metre-high equine sculptures in Helix Park, visible from the train on the right-hand side from Edinburgh. Look carefully, they are easily missed.

Highlights of Glasgow include

• The Kelvingrove Museum & Art Gallery
• Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis
• Glasgow Street Art

Read more – One-day itinerary for Glasgow

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Glasgow – Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel 
• 🛌  Best B&B in Glasgow – The Alamo
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Glasgow – Ibis Styles George Square

Day 5 – Glasgow to Oban

📍 From the Queens Street station catch the train on the West Highland line which is THE number one scenic Scottish train journey (and one of our top 10 UK train trips ).  

🕘 Check your train times as there are only a few trains daily in each direction. The journey to Oban is around 3 hours.

The train heads north out of Glasgow. If possible try to sit on the left side of the train in the direction of travel as the train heads north for the best loch views.

The station at Balloch about 50 mins outside Glasgow is a change station for Loch Lomond if this is an area you want to explore further.

The train divides or splits at Crianlarich, about 90 minutes from Glasgow, with one portion of the train heading to Oban. The other portion of the train heads north to Fort William across the famous Rannock Moor. 

You will be told which part of the train to sit in to ensure you are heading in the correct direction.

On the train journey to Oban from Crianlarich enjoy spectacular views of Loch Lomond, Glen Lochy, Loch Awe and then the shores of Loch Etive.

Highlights of Oban include

• McCaig’s Tower and battery on the hill overlooking Oban.
• Oban is known as the seafood capital of Scotland
• Oban Distillery
• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Oban – No17 The Promenade
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Oban – Glenmoore Guest House

One Day 6 take a tour from Oban to some of Scotland’s most stunning islands – Iona, Staffa, and Mull.

There are a number of tours available from Oban – most last all day. Also worth noting that these may not suit if you suffer from sea sickness! Check out Staffa Tours for more info

Day 7 – Oban to Fort William

Day 7 catch the train from Oban back to Crianlarich and change there for the train to Fort William.

🕘 Journey time is dependent on the service caught from Oban and the time to wait for the connecting service at Crianlarich. Overall time travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

The train journey from Crianlarich will take you across Rannock Moor on the West Highland train line. 

The next train station stop is at Corrour which is the highest mainline UK train station at 1339 feet.  Here many walkers end/start their hikes over this amazing landscape.

After Corrour the train travels on to Fort William. Look out for the peak of Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest peak at 4,411 feet.

Highlights of Fort William include

• Neptune’s staircase
• Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
• Glenfinnan Visitor centre and monument
• Glenfinnan Viaduct

Read more – Best things to do and see in Fort William

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Fort William – Inverlochy Castle Hotel   (this is a taxi ride* from the train station)
• 🛌  Best B&B in Fort William – Glentower Lower Observatory
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Fort William – Culacrick Guest House 

*Note that there are taxis generally available outside Fort William train station.

If you are completing this Scotland by rail itinerary between April and October we recommend booking tickets on the world-famous Jacobite Express steam train to Mallaig (aka the Harry Potter train).

The train departs once a day in the morning from early April until late October. From May to September, an additional train service also runs every afternoon. The Jacobite train is operated by West Coast Railways.

Tip – Arrive at the train station in Fort William in plenty of time to soak up the fantastic atmosphere of the Harry Potter train and take plenty of photos and videos.

❗️Remember to book your tickets early as this sells out very quickly.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

Good to know – If you are unable to book tickets for the Jacobite (or are travelling out of season) the normal service train travels over the same train line.  This means you will still travel over the Glenfinnan viaduct and see the same spectacular views along the way to Mallaig.

🕘 The train ride between Fort William and Mallaig takes around 1 hour and 25 mins from Fort William to Mallaig.

What to do and see in Mallaig

The endpoint of the West Highland Train line is Mallaig. Look out for the beautiful views of the islands of Eigg and Rum and the white sands of Morar as the train line hugs the coastline on its way to Mallaig.

In Mallaig explore the beautiful restaurants and try some local seafood and wander around the harbour. For Harry Potter fans there is a dedicated shop also worth exploring.

Day 9 – Fort William (Mallaig) to Armadale (Isle of Skye)

Mallaig is the ferry terminal for the crossing to the truly breathtaking Isle of Skye.

The ferry carries road vehicles and foot passengers and is currently operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). CalMac also provides ferry services to the Western Isles including Barra, Bute, Arran, Harris, Iona and Eriskey from Mallaig.

🕘 The ferry journey takes 25 minutes before arriving at the ferry port at Armadale which is located in the southern part of the Sleat Peninsula on Skye. 

Whilst there is a road bridge to Skye via the Kyle of Lochalsh the ferry is the best option from Fort William for this rail trip.

How to travel from Armadale to your accommodation on Skye

On arrival at Armadale, you have a few options to get around the island. There are no trains on Skye so you will need to make alternative transport arrangements.

• Taxi to Portree* – takes 1 hour and costs £60+
• Rent a car – There is a small family-run car rental company located in Armadale. Organise a car pick here for the Skye leg of your trip before returning (for an additional fee) to the Kyle of Lochalsh.
• Bus –

*Public transport and tour options are easier from Portree so for this reason (if you do not hire a car from Armadale) we recommend basing yourself in Portree for the duration of your stay on Skye.

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel on Skye – Cuillin Hills Hotel
• 🛌  Best B&B in on Skye – Canowindra B&B
• 💰  Best budget accommodation on Skye – Tianavaig View Apartments

Read – Complete guide to where to stay on Skye (area and accommodation)

With so much to see on Skye and places to visit visitors are often left thinking they might have wanted more time here (including us in 2022!)

For this reason, it is best to prioritise your must-see places and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you have not hired a car at Armadale your options to explore the island are the following:

• Catch local buses around the island
• Take a tour from Portree
• Hire a private driver tour guide to show you the highlights of the island

Highlights on the Isle of Skye include

• Fairy Pools
• Dunvegan Castle and gardens
• The Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt falls
• Talisker Distillery
• Armadale Castle Gardens and museum.

Day 12 – Isle of Skye to Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness

Leaving Skye over the bridge to the Kyle of Lochalsh is possible by taxi or by bus.  From Portree (Square) the 917 Citylink Service costs around £9 for one adult fare. 

The bus stops at Kyle of Lochalsh Old Slipway bus stop and takes around 1 hour. The bus stop is a few minutes walk to the train station.

What to see around the Kyle of Lochalsh

If you are dropping off the hire car you picked up at Armadale at the Kyle of Lochalsh consider exploring a little of the area before you do so.

• Eilean Donan Castle is 9 miles (about 15 mins drive away) along the coast of Loch Alsh.
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery

Train to Inverness

🛤 This is the beautifully scenic Kyle line.

🕘 The train to Inverness takes around 2.5 hours.

What to see on the train journey to Inverness

From Kyle, the train line hugs the coastline of Loch Carron and at the station of Plockton is the location setting of the popular UK TV program Hamish Macbeth (from the 1990s).

Look out for the Torridon Hills on the left-hand side of the train just after the station at Achnashellach. The line then rises and falls en route to Dingwall past Loch Garve, Loch Luichart and Loch a’Chuilinn with constantly stunning views. Dingwall is at the end of the Cromarty Firth. From here the line heads the 20 minutes journey south to Inverness.  

From Dingwall a change of train on the Far North Line would take you to the north tip of Scotland at Thurso and Wick train stations. From here if you wish to visit the John O’Groats or the Orkney Islands .

• ⭐️  Best hotel in Inverness near the train station – River Ness Hotel
• 🛌  Best B&B in Inverness – Moyness House
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Inverness – Inverness Youth Hostel

Highlights of Inverness – including easy day trip ideas

• Loch Ness and Castle Urquhart
• Culloden battlefield
• Clava Cairns – Bronze Age Cairn
• Fort George- Artillery fortification
• I nverness to Thurso and Wick (Far North Line)

Good to know – the hop-on hop-off bus from Inverness has stops at Culloden and Loch Ness

Read more – Best day trips from Inverness

✅ On day 14 catch the train back to Edinburgh Waverley from Inverness. 

🔀 There is a choice of train routes to take – the coastal route that takes in Aberdeen and Dundee or the central route that passes through Aviemore, Pitlochry and Perth.

🕘 The coastal route takes around 5 hours while the central route to Edinburgh takes between 3 hours 30 mins – 4 hours.

Both routes are scenic and have contrasting landscapes. There are merits to both depending on timescales or your specific interests such as the Whisky Trail from the station of Keith north of Aberdeen.

Both routes take in the iconic Forth Rail Bridge which is about 12 minutes away from Edinburgh.

The bridge was completed in December 1889 and spans over the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Train ticket and passes – options for your Scotland rail itinerary

There are a number of options open to you when it comes to buying tickets for the Scotland by rail itinerary detailed above. The most cost-effective option for train tickets may be to compare the cost of a train pass or ticket discounts with a railcard.

Train Pass es

The two passes available are the BritRail Pass or the Global Eurail Pass (or Global Interail pass if you live in Europe).

Note – Unfortunately, the Scottish Highlands BritRail Pass and the Spirit of Scotland BritRail Pass are unavailable at the moment due to Covid – hopefully, they will be available again soon.

This means that you would need to buy a regular BritRail Pass for travel by trail in Scotland. The following types are available:

Flexible – 2 Day, 3 Day, 4 Day, 8 Day (valid within 1 month) and 15 Day (valid within 2 months)

Consecutive – 2 Day, 3 Day, 4 Day, 8 Day, 15 Day, 22 Day, 1 Month

The other alternative is a Global Eurail Pass . It offers consecutive travel for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or buy a pass valid for 1, 2 or 3 months. Or a flexible pass for 4, 5 or 7 non-consecutive days spread over a month; or for 10 or 15 days during a two month period. 

With 6 days of train travel (excluding the Jacobite which is not covered by either pass) a 7 day Global Eurail flexipass may be the most cost-effective for this itinerary.

Read – Global Eurail Pass versus BritRail Pass

Another option would be to purchase a d i g i t a l railcard and compare the cost of tickets with discounts from the railcard applied.

Examples of railcards include:

• Two Together Railcard – Costs £30 for the year. Two travellers are named on the same card and you must always travel together to get one-third off the normal ticket price.
• Senior Railcard – For the over 60s. Costs £30 for the year and offers one-third off rail fares.
• UK Train Travel Guide ebook
• Tips to save money on UK train travel
• Britrail vs Gobal Eurail Pass
• Best day trips from Glasgow by train
• Guide to the Caledonian Sleeper (and podcast episode)
• 9 Tips for travelling the UK by train
• Introduction to UK train travel podcast episode #2
• Best day trips from Edinburgh

VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

Get started

VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

Scotland Trip Planner How to Leverage Triplay for Your Ultimate Scottish Adventure

When you're gearing up for an adventure, especially in a place as breathtaking as Scotland, you want to make every minute count. That's where a Scotland Trip Planner comes in handy. Just imagine—rolling hills, historic castles, and lush landscapes all await your discovery. But how can you fit all that beauty and history into one trip? You don't want to miss a thing!

Enter your friendly Scotland Trip Planner! Picture this tool as your personal guidebook and your best buddy for organizing your journey. It's like having a wise local friend who knows the lay of the land and wants you to have the time of your life. But this isn't a storybook; it's your real upcoming adventure!

Say goodbye to the days of fumbling with paper maps and tour booklets. A Scotland Trip Planner will sort it all out digitally. Whether you're into discovering ancient ruins, taking long walks through scenic trails, or sampling the best local foods, your tailored plan will have it all. It's like a digital treasure map, pointing you toward the gems you might otherwise miss!

But what really sets a Scotland Trip Planner apart is its adaptability. Let's say the weather turns rainy—you can easily shuffle your plans, so you're visiting a cozy, history-packed museum instead of getting soaked on a mountain trail. Or maybe you learn about a local festival happening nearby. Update your planner, and boom—you're ready to experience something truly unique.

Worried about getting lost? Fear not! Your Scotland Trip Planner will give you easy-to-follow directions. It's a breeze, really, like having a magical compass that leads you exactly where you want to go. Plus, it helps you manage your time, so you can fit in all the fun activities you're eager to try. Want to squeeze in a tour of a whisky distillery, a round of golf, and a visit to the iconic Loch Ness—all in one day? Your planner makes it possible.

Maybe you're thinking that all this planning takes the spontaneity out of your trip. But that's not true! Your Scotland Trip Planner leaves room for unexpected joys and surprises. It's flexible and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but instead of flipping pages, you’re living the story in real time!

In short, a Scotland Trip Planner doesn’t just prepare you for a trip; it amplifies the joy and wonder of each moment. So, as you look forward to your Scottish escapade, remember to lean on your planner. It's the best tool to help you fully immerse yourself in everything this remarkable land has to offer.

With a Scotland Travel Planner , you're not just a tourist; you're an explorer, a discoverer, and a storymaker. So go ahead, let your Scotland Trip Planner pave the way for the adventure of a lifetime. Time flies, yes, but with a well-organized plan, you'll capture every magical moment of your journey.

Dive into the Beauty of Scotland

Imagine you're flipping through a picture book, and every page showcases a different, colorful part of the world. Scotland could very well be the most captivating chapter of that book. Just like a beautiful quilt with each patch telling its own unique story, Scotland unfurls a panorama of varied landscapes. And to explore all these wonders, you'd need a great companion - your Scotland Trip Planner!

With the help of a Scotland Trip Planner, you can embark on a journey across its rugged coastlines. Feel the misty breeze on your face and listen to the whispering waves. You might even spot a playful seal or a flock of birds diving for their next meal. But coastlines are just one page of this magical storybook.

Turn to the next chapter, and the Scotland Trip Planner will guide you to the serene lochs. These are large lakes, so still that they mirror the sky, making you wonder where the heavens end and the earth begins. Loch Ness, ever heard of it? It's the famous one where a mysterious creature named Nessie is said to swim. Your planner might not promise a Nessie sighting, but it'll ensure you have the best view by the loch's edge.

Next, with your trusty Scotland Trip Planner in hand, you'll venture to the towering highlands. Here, mountains stand tall, their peaks often hidden in mist. It's like stepping into a world where giants might roam. The views? Simply breathtaking. It’s not a fairy tale; it’s the majestic Scottish Highlands!

But Scotland isn't just nature's playground. The Scotland Trip Planner also leads explorers to bustling cities. Edinburgh , for instance, is a city of festivals, history, and art. Streets paved with stories of kings, queens, and legendary creatures. And then there's Glasgow, known for its vibrant music scene and friendly locals.

While using the Scotland Travel Planner , you'll also discover tiny villages where traditions come alive, and people greet you with a warmth that feels like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Places where time seems to have paused, allowing you to breathe, relax, and soak in the charm.

Think of your Scotland Trip Planner as a magical map, highlighting secret spots and forgotten trails. Maybe it'll lead you to a hidden waterfall, or an ancient stone circle. The surprises? Endless!

For every traveler eager to dive into Scotland's beauty, the Scotland Trip Planner is a must-have companion. It whispers secrets of the land, ensuring you don't miss out on anything. After all, in a place as mesmerizing as Scotland, every corner, every stone, and every ripple in the water has a tale to tell.

In conclusion, just as a quilt is stitched together with love and memories, Scotland is a land woven with history, nature, and tales of yesteryears. And guiding you through this enchanting journey is none other than the Scotland Trip Planner. Dive in, let curiosity be your compass, and let the planner be your guide. The beauty of Scotland awaits!

Culture and Heritage: Scotland's Heart and Soul

Scotland, with its majestic landscapes and spirited cities, is like an old storybook that you'd find tucked away in a dusty corner of a library. But once opened, the pages overflow with tales so rich and vibrant that they leap out at you. Imagine wanting to dive deep into these tales. Where would you start? That's where your Scotland Trip Planner steps in, acting as your guide to this captivating story.

The Scotland Trip Planner doesn't just show you places; it takes you back in time. You'll hear about brave warriors who fought legendary battles, their tales echoing through the hills and glens. With the Scotland Trip Planner, you might stumble upon stone circles that whisper ancient secrets or learn about mythical creatures like the Loch Ness Monster. But these tales aren't confined to pages; they live on in the heartbeats of the people.

Picture this: a village square where folks gather, the melodious sound of bagpipes filling the air. These aren't just instruments; as the Scotland Trip Planner will tell you, they're voices of ancestors, sharing stories of old. Every note holds emotion – joy, sorrow, love, and longing. And if you listen closely, your Scotland Trip Planner might just guide you to a spot where you can learn to play one!

Then there are the kilts. Not just fabric, but a tapestry of history. Each pattern, or tartan as it's called, tells a story of a clan or family. Ask your Scotland Trip Planner, and it will surely recommend places where you can see kilt-making in action, or perhaps even try one on! Feel the weight and texture, and you'll be connecting with centuries of tradition.

Ah, and the dances! With your Scotland Travel Planner , you can locate a local ceilidh – a traditional Scottish dance event. It's a whirlwind of fun, where stories aren't just told; they're danced! Every spin, leap, and twirl carries the joy and spirit of the Scottish people. It's infectious, and before you know it, you'll be joining in, laughing and dancing the night away.

But the beauty of using a Scotland Trip Planner is that it lets you delve deeper. Beyond the music, kilts, and dance, you’ll discover ancient castles with walls that have witnessed centuries. You’ll learn of poets and writers who have captured Scotland’s essence in words, like Robert Burns, whose poems still touch hearts worldwide.

Culture is also in the food – haggis, neeps, and tatties! A dish that may sound peculiar but holds the flavors of the land. Ask your Scotland Trip Planner where to get the best haggis, and it will lead you straight to a local eatery where traditions simmer in pots and pans.

In essence, Scotland isn’t just a place; it’s an emotion, a tapestry of tales, traditions, and tunes. And while one can read about it or hear stories, to truly experience it, you need a companion. The Scotland Trip Planner is that trusted friend, ensuring you don’t just visit Scotland, but you feel it, breathe it, and live its stories.

So, as you flip through the enchanting storybook of Scotland, let your Scotland Trip Planner illuminate the magic on every page. The culture, the heritage, the very soul of the nation awaits your discovery.

Why Opt for a Scotland Trip Planner?

Imagine preparing for a grand adventure, a voyage to the magical land of Scotland. The excitement bubbles up, but with it comes the weighty task of planning. And here, our tale of the Scotland Trip Planner begins.

Traditional Planning vs. AI-powered Planning

Remember the time you tried to bake a cake for the first time? Perhaps you were courageous enough to do it without a recipe. Maybe you added a little too much flour or not enough sugar. The result? Well, let's just say it wasn't the delightful treat you envisioned. Planning a trip the traditional way feels a bit like this: uncertain, a bit messy, and sometimes downright frustrating.

Now, let’s spice things up a bit. Enter the Scotland Trip Planner, your AI-powered smart assistant, much like Triplay.ai. Using this is akin to having a secret cake recipe passed down through generations. A recipe that promises perfection each time. No more guesswork. Every ingredient, which in our analogy represents a part of your trip, finds its exact spot, ensuring you have a memorable experience.

Analogies to Understand AI’s Role

Ever tackled a jigsaw puzzle? Those with a thousand tiny pieces depicting a castle or a beautiful Scottish glen? If you've tried solving one, you know the thrill of finding the right piece and the frustration when things don't fit. Planning a trip using traditional methods feels just like this – exhilarating when things align but exasperating when they don’t.

Now, imagine a world where your jigsaw puzzle is enchanted. A realm where each piece has a tiny magnet, guiding it to its rightful place. This is what the Scotland Trip Planner brings to the table. Instead of spending endless hours fitting pieces of your trip together, the Scotland Trip Planner ensures each part of your journey, from accommodations to activities, magnetically snaps into place. It’s like magic, but it’s not – it’s the power of AI.

With the Scotland Trip Planner, no more sifting through heaps of information or getting lost in the maze of options. Just like how the right piece in a jigsaw puzzle gives clarity to the whole picture, this planner illuminates the best choices for your Scottish adventure. It understands your desires and crafts an itinerary tailored just for you.

But why choose the Scotland Travel Planner over other tools? Well, every child knows the value of a magical guide in enchanted tales. In the saga of your Scotland journey, the Scotland Trip Planner plays this pivotal role. It's not just about organizing; it's about optimizing. Ensuring that every sunrise, every experience, every memory is nothing short of spellbinding.

In conclusion, embarking on a Scottish journey without the Scotland Trip Planner is like diving into a fairytale without a map. You might encounter wonders, but also get lost in the woods. With the Scotland Trip Planner guiding your steps, the narrative changes. It's the tale of a traveler who, with a bit of magic (and AI), lived the Scottish dream to its fullest.

So, the next time you're ready to weave your own Scottish story, remember the enchanted tool in your arsenal – the Scotland Trip Planner. For in the world of travel, it’s the sprinkle of fairy dust that transforms a journey from ordinary to extraordinary.

Introducing Triplay: Your AI-Powered Scotland Trip Guide

How the Magic of Triplay.ai Unfolds Every storybook hero embarks on a grand journey. But imagine if, besides courage and charm, they had a magical gadget that whispered secrets of the lands they ventured into. That's Triplay.ai for modern explorers. And if you're looking to embark on a Scottish saga, consider it your indispensable Scotland Trip Planner.

No more poring over confusing maps or getting swayed by too many opinions. The Scotland Trip Planner feature in Triplay.ai is like your pocket-sized Merlin, using its magic (read: algorithms) to sift through layers of data and weave a travel tale perfectly suited for you.

The Enchanting Benefits of Triplay.ai Why should you opt for Triplay.ai as your Scotland Trip Planner? Remember those magical mirrors and carpets in fairy tales that showed hidden realms and took people on swift journeys? That's the aura Triplay.ai brings to your travel. With the prowess of AI, this Scotland Trip Planner tailors your journey, ensuring every castle, glen, and festival aligns with what fascinates you.

And as every seasoned traveler knows, things change – weather patterns shift, events pop up, and sometimes, a hidden gem suddenly gains popularity. The Scotland Travel Planner within Triplay isn’t just about initial planning; it constantly updates you, making sure you're always in the right place at the right time.

Now, imagine having a local Scottish guide with you, sharing folklore, pointing out the best eateries, and suggesting the perfect spots for those Instagram-worthy shots. That's the essence of Triplay.ai. It encapsulates the wisdom of locals, offering insights that no ordinary guidebook can. And the most magical part? You can dive into this world of enhanced travel planning with a FREE trial. It's like getting a free ticket to a magical realm, thanks to your Scotland Trip Planner, Triplay.ai!

Triplay.ai in Action: A Tale from Scotland Let’s bring this to life with Sarah’s tale. Sarah, much like any of us, dreamt of an enchanting trip to Scotland. But she wasn't just content visiting the usual touristy spots. She longed for an authentic Scottish experience.

Enter Triplay.ai, her chosen Scotland Trip Planner. Through its AI magic, Sarah was introduced to the heartbeats of Scotland. The planner directed her to quaint villages where time seemed to have paused, letting her mingle with locals and savor traditional dishes. She danced at local festivals, the kind not splashed all over travel brochures, but ones that offered genuine joy.

And those hidden gems? With her Scotland Trip Planner, Sarah found spots even some Scots hadn’t ventured to. Her journey, thanks to Triplay.ai, was not just a trip, but an artful masterpiece of experiences.

Essential Tips for Traveling in Scotland: Dive Into the Heartbeat of the Highlands

Tuning into Local Etiquettes Before we embark on our journey through the wonders of Scotland, let's get one thing straight - when you're in Scotland, embrace the Scottish spirit! Greet the locals with a heartfelt “Aye,” indulge in the rich taste of their native brews, and let the allure of the Gaelic culture sweep you off your feet. Remember, Scotland is not just a destination; it's an experience.

Must-Visit Places with Your Scotland Trip Planner Setting foot in Scotland feels like stepping into a captivating novel filled with tales of knights, mystical creatures, and ancient castles. But to truly appreciate its beauty, you'll need a guiding hand - or rather, a guiding tool. Enter the Scotland Trip Planner, your compass to the hidden treasures of this land.

Edinburgh: Not just a city but a living, breathing tale of history and culture. Through the cobbled streets of the Old Town to the regal splendor of the Edinburgh Castle, this city is a treasure trove. But it's not just about famous landmarks. With the Scotland Trip Planner by your side, you'll discover cafes, bookshops, and nooks that make you feel like you've traveled back in time.

Isle of Skye: Described as a slice of heaven on Earth, the Isle of Skye is a mesmerizing blend of landscapes - from rugged terrains to serene beaches. Let the Scotland Trip Planner navigate you through its intricacies. Maybe you'll find a hidden waterfall, or perhaps a hill that offers views so enchanting, they'll stay with you forever.

Loch Ness: Beyond the myths and legends of the famous Nessie, Loch Ness is a spectacle in itself. But it's not just about trying to spot the elusive creature; it's about the tranquility, the nearby villages, and the stories that seep from its depths. Rely on your Scotland Trip Planner to guide you to the best vantage points and local experiences.

Turn Every Journey into a Masterpiece Scotland is not just a series of destinations. It's a canvas, and every traveler paints their unique story on it. While the landmarks and the traditional experiences form the base layer, it's the nuances, the hidden gems, and the interactions that add vibrant strokes to this painting. That's where Triplay.ai comes in, acting as your trusted Scotland Trip Planner. It ensures that your Scottish saga is not just about places but moments that leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Wondering how to set this magical journey in motion? Experience next-gen trip planning with a FREE trial of the Scotland Trip Planner in Triplay.ai. It's like holding a map that has been charmed to show not just roads, but dreams.

Wrapping Up Your Scottish Adventure Scotland is not just about the places but the tales you weave around them. As you wander through its highlands and valleys, make sure you've got your Scotland Trip Planner, a digital companion ensuring every chapter of your Scottish story is nothing short of spellbinding.

Kick-starting Your AI-Enhanced Scottish Adventure with the Ultimate Scotland Trip Planner

The First Steps with Triplay Remember when we were kids, and every story began with “Once upon a time”? In the digital age, your own Scottish fairy tale begins with Triplay.ai, the quintessential Scotland Trip Planner. But unlike old storybooks, you won't need a magical key to dive in. Starting with this Scotland Trip Planner is a breeze, almost as easy as flipping open the pages of your favorite children's book.

To set your Scottish journey in motion, you just need to sign up on Triplay.ai. Remember how you'd tell a storyteller the kind of stories you liked? It’s the same here. Share your interests, your dreams, maybe even the fairy tales you loved, and let this Scotland Trip Planner, with its impressive AI, weave together the chapters of your very own Scottish tale.

Your Scottish Adventure Awaits Now, what would you like your Scottish story to be? A mystical chase after the Loch Ness Monster? A romantic stroll through the streets of Edinburgh? Or perhaps, a thrilling quest to discover the hidden castles and glens? Whatever your heart desires, the Scotland Trip Planner is here to make it come alive.

As you embark, imagine Triplay.ai as a magical scroll. It unfurls, showcasing enchanting Scottish landscapes, guiding you to places both famed and hidden, based on the tale you want to live. With the Scotland Trip Planner, your adventure is not just about destinations; it's about crafting moments that would make even storybook heroes envious.

Guidance at Every Turn But wait, a quest isn’t all about the big moments. It’s also about the little wonders, the unplanned delights. The Scotland Trip Planner ensures you encounter these too. Maybe it'll guide you to a quaint café where locals share stories of old, or a hidden trail that leads to breathtaking views.

Every adventurer needs a reliable compass. In this digital age, let Triplay.ai be yours. With the Scotland Trip Planner feature, not only will you know where to go, but also when to visit, how to get there, and the legends that surround each place.

Effortless Exploration with Triplay.ai For every traveler, there's always a moment of uncertainty. A crossroad where we wonder which path to choose. But with this Scotland Trip Planner, those moments of doubt are banished. Just like a guiding star, Triplay.ai shines a light on the best routes, making your journey smooth and memorable.

Keen to witness this magic firsthand? Why wait? Start your seamless Scottish exploration with a FREE trial of the Scotland Trip Planner on Triplay.ai. Think of it as a sneak peek into a magical realm, waiting for you to dive in.

In Conclusion

Every fairy tale has a beginning, middle, and a happily ever after. As you dream of your Scottish adventure, remember the Scotland Trip Planner, ready to craft every chapter, ensuring your story is one for the ages.

• Photo points

Related posts:

Australia Trip Planner: Your Ultimate Guide to Seamless Adventures

Dive into the beauty of Australia! Get personalized itineraries and travel tips with our AI-driven trip planner.

New York Trip Planner: An Ultimate Guide with Triplay

Craft your dream NYC itinerary with Triplay.ai, the ultimate New York Trip Planner. Dive into the city's wonders with our AI-driven, personalized plans.

• Scotland Tourism
• Scotland Hotels
• Scotland Bed and Breakfast
• Scotland Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Scotland
• Scotland Restaurants
• Things to Do in Scotland
• Scotland Travel Forum
• Scotland Photos
• All Scotland Hotels
• Scotland Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Scotland
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Trip Report: Oban & Isle of Mull March/April 2024 - Scotland Forum

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• Scotland    

Trip Report: Oban & Isle of Mull March/April 2024

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• United Kingdom forums
• Scotland forum

Warning: Long Post!

Day 1: London - Glasgow via train; Glasgow-Oban (by rental car ); Drove via A82-A83-A819-A85; Stopped at Luss (Loch Lomond); Arrived in Oban late PM; 3 nights in Oban

Day 2: Oban to Glencoe; drove all around the region & Loch Etive (A828 then A82)

Day 3: Oban & surrounding areas: Ganavan sands, Oban town, Pulpit Hill etc

Day 4: Oban to Isle of Mull (Tobermory) via 11 am Craignure CalMac Ferry; On reaching Craignure, stopped at Duart Castle & then headed into Tobermory then further on to Calgary beach & back to Tobermory by 6pm; 2 nights in Tobermory

Day 5: Tobermory to Fionnphort; then ferry to Iona; Return to Tobermory late evening

Day 6: Tobermory to Craignure to Oban to Inverary; overnight in Inverary

Day 7: Inverary to Glasgow ( rental car drop off); Glasgow-London by train

Driving & related notes

- Picked up rental car from Arnold Clark on South Street (to avoid driving through Glasgow city centre); extremely nice & helpful people here who picked us up from the Glasgow Central Train station

- Driving times: Note that google maps & the Sat Nav on rental cars give an estimate based on driving the speed limits (which were 60 mph in most areas with some even at 70mph). However, due to reasons mentioned below, we, as North American drivers (new to London), could not drive at those speeds. Add 1.5 hours easily to your driving time if you are like us plus some time for stops.

- We didn’t find too many pull out points for scenic look outs. Only passing lanes on most roads. I wish there were more look out scenic stops along the roads to admire the beauty of the place because it is absolutely stunning!

- Driving: As a N.American driver (with ample prior experience driving on opposite/ left side) it was extremely challenging to drive for the following reasons:

- extremely narrow lanes

- small/ lower cars preferred but takes time getting used to

- Driving on opposite side than we are used to

- single lane roads on most A roads i.e. one lane on each direction only

- Single-track roads in most of Isle of Mull & some parts of mainland around Oban as well with plenty passing lanes

- no shoulders on the side of most roads

- speed limits high for such kind of roads (60/70 mph)- we could only drive a max of 30mph on single-track roads & sometimes 40/50 mph on regular roads due to winding roads

- Extremely winding roads

- The drives overall were more tiring & stressful for the small distances we covered

- Tip: Try & always have an active co-passenger as a navigator + look out person; we felt this especially for the drive on single track roads esp from Tobermory to Calgary Beach.

- Tip: do let trucks, locals etc pass by giving an indicator/ signal earlier than you think is required since they are driving fast & close. There were sufficient “Passing Places” on most roads & I have to say they were much kinder to us as tourists than drivers are in the US.

This is not a list of negatives, but just our personal experience & opinion based on driving here especially as North American drivers who are used to bigger cars + bigger roads so hoping to set expectations of fellow travellers. Locals were of course able to drive at higher speeds. UK drivers are excellent & were very understanding of us as rental car drivers (thanks Arnold Clark stickers on back of rentals!).

Route & misc notes

- Glasgow-Oban: Based on suggestions we drove A82-A83-A819-A85 & it was perfect since A83 & A819 were welcome breaks from high speed + high traffic areas

- Luss: do stop at this charming village on Loch Lomond on your way from Glasgow-Oban. Lovely little shops, places to eat & gorgeous views. We spent about 1-1.5 hours here.

- Rest & Be Thankful View point on A83: This seemed closed as there was construction around it.

- Oban-Glencoe Day trip: Took A828 then A82 all the way to Kingshouse & back. We also took a detour to drive along the Loch Etive road for about 1/2 hr & the views were worth it! Ideally spend the entire day leisurely (yet cautiously) driving & stopping around the Glencoe area & pack a picnic.

- Tobermory to Fionnphort: We drove the coastal road from Tobermory-Salen-Gruline-Pennyghael-Bunessan- Fionnphort (A848-B8035-A849) & it was extremely long, winding, slow & tiring but absolutely worth the effort. If you can you must take this route. It’s rugged, beautiful, lots of cattle & sheep to see & say hello to along the way! On return, we drove back via Craignure.

- Personal opinion: We didn’t enjoy staying at Tobermory as much as we had hoped, maybe because it was the Easter weekend. We would have still preferred to stay around there but maybe a little off the town.

- Must go: Isle of Mull Cheese and Spirit- absolutely devious baked goods + cheese with a gorgeous cafe & some sheep & goat around!

Hope this is helpful!

15 replies to this topic

Indeed we do in Somerset too. But it's a limit, not a necessity.

Some idiot planner recently put a 50mph sign on a twisty road with no visibility. Can't see cyclists, horse riders or ramblers.

Thankfully most people have used common sense just like Addy and drive at the speed suitable for the conditions.

Yes locals can drive faster because they know the roads throughly, when they can speed up and in advance when they can slow down.

Very good and useful trip report. Glad you enjoyed yourselves.

Thanks for your trip report. Enjoyed reading.

What a lovely report! Glad you enjoyed Luss, despite it getting very busy with day trippers.I always enjoy a stop there and the big shop on the corner is a must for me….such lovely things.

Haste ye back!

It may be worth spelling out that the speed limits are Miles, not kilometres per hour. It didnt occur to me to do this until I realised an American driver thought people were speeding madly when most were close to the speed limit.

Yes we have idiots on winding rural roads who think they can do 50 or 60 when anyone with sense is doing 30 or less. The Highway code may have speed limits but it also has a guide to stopping distances https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65f97642aa9b760011fbda4e/the-highway-code-stopping-distances.pdf If you cant see more than 75 feet in front of you then driving over 30 is for idiots.

@john m- we did go to McCaigs Tower & aimlessly strolled all around town & it was a great day well spent. We also went to Ganavan sands a couple of times & just loved it.

• Edinburgh hotel/apartment prices 7:16 pm
• Day visit advice 7:06 pm
• Edinburgh - self drive 7:00 pm
• Wheelchair Accessible Activities - In and around Inverness 6:34 pm
• Dinner in Glasgow 3:38 pm
• New to Mull - recommendations requested 2:47 pm
• Grant Arms Argyle St 2:20 pm
• One day in Invergordon 1:19 pm
• Parking in Oban for 5 days 1:00 pm
• This Weekend 12:34 pm
• Car rental outside of city center 12:28 pm
• One day off cruise ship 11:19 am
• Royal Highland Show 8:02 am
• Hiring a car 7:58 am
• What are the most beautiful places to go in Scotland ? 14 replies
• Most Scenic Drives In Scotland 15 replies
• Tipping in Scotland 70 replies
• Scotland for 9 or 10 days 9 replies
• Train Travel from St. Andrews (Leuchars) to Glasgow Airport 9 replies
• winter in scotland 21 replies
• 7 days in Scotland where to go? HELP!!!!!!! 11 replies
• Car rental liability insurance question 12 replies
• Must pack items for Mid-September to early October trip? 16 replies
• When does heather bloom? What are the Fall length of days? 5 replies

Scotland Hotels and Places to Stay

• Warning!! Read this before you hire a car
• Trip Reports
• Driving in Scotland
• One foreign visitor's perception of Scottish Roads
• Scottish top 5
• What can I do in 'wild' Scotland?
• The forgotten corner of Scotland which everyone passes by..?