scotland trip guide

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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

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

Best Times to Go to Scotland

Best things to do in scotland.

• Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Where to Stay in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

© Ibraheem5/Shutterstock

Scotland has many treasures crammed into its compact territory: big skies, ancient architecture, spectacular wildlife, superb seafood and hospitable, down-to-earth people.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Scotland. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle has played a pivotal role in Scottish history, both as a royal residence – King Malcolm Canmore (r 1058–93) and Queen Margaret first made…

Predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza, extraordinary Skara Brae is one of the world's most evocative prehistoric sites, and northern Europe’s best…

Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral has a rare timelessness. The dark, imposing interior conjures up medieval might and can send a shiver down the spine. It's a shining…

Rosslyn Chapel

Many years may have passed since Dan Brown's novel The Da Vinci Code and the subsequent film came out, but floods of visitors still descend on Scotland's…

Stirling Castle

Hold Stirling and you control Scotland. This maxim has ensured that a fortress of some kind has existed here since prehistoric times. You cannot help…

Constructed about 5000 years ago, Maeshowe is an extraordinary place, a Stone Age tomb built from enormous sandstone blocks, some of which weighed many…

Culzean Castle & Country Park

Southern Scotland

The Scottish National Trust's flagship property, magnificent Culzean (kull-ane) is one of the most impressive of Scotland's stately homes. On approach the…

Scone Palace

'So thanks to all at once and to each one, whom we invite to see us crowned at Scone.' This line from Macbeth indicates the importance of Scone …

Top picks from our travel experts

The 11 best things to do in scotland from festivals to puffins and peaks.

Three Chimneys

Halfway between Dunvegan and Waterstein, the Three Chimneys is a superb romantic retreat combining a gourmet restaurant in a candlelit crofter’s cottage…

Discovery Point

The three masts of Captain Robert Falcon Scott's famous polar expedition vessel the RRS Discovery provide a historic counterpoint to the modern…

Scottish Parliament Building

Holyrood & Arthur’s Seat

The Scottish Parliament Building, on the site of a former brewery and designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles (1955–2000), was opened by the Queen in…

Speyside Cooperage

Here you can watch the fascinating art of barrel-making during a 45-minute guided tour. It’s a mile south of Craigellachie on the Dufftown road.

National Museum of Scotland

Elegant Chambers St is dominated by the long facade of the National Museum of Scotland. Its extensive collections are spread between two buildings: one…

Scotland's most famous house club is still going strong several decades on. Saturday at the Sub Club is one of Glasgow's legendary nights, offering…

V&A Dundee

The centrepiece of Dundee's revitalised waterfront is this stunning building designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Opened in late 2018, it houses an…

Oban, Mull & Tiree

Iona's ancient but heavily reconstructed abbey is the spiritual heart of the island. The spectacular nave, dominated by Romanesque and early Gothic vaults…

Verdant Works

One of the fi­nest industrial museums in Europe, the Verdant Works explores the history of Dundee's jute industry. Housed in a restored jute mill,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

To explore Scotland away from the crowds, travel south to the Borders and start with these eight spectacular stops.

Things to Know

If you’re looking to get the lowdown before visiting Scotland, start with these insider local tips.

Transportation

Scotland isn't big but the scale of its mountains, valleys and lochs mean small distances equate to long journeys. Read our top tips for getting around.

Money and Costs

Maximize your budget while traveling around Scotland with these insider tips and travel hacks to make your money last that bit longer.

Traveling with Kids

Here's what you need to know about traveling with children in Scotland, and the best things to do for the perfect family day out.

Best Road Trips

Scotland's cities may be full of history but it's the countryside in between that captures the hearts of visitors. Here are Scotland's top road trips.

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Experience the real Scotland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Scotland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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Top 5 things to see and do in scotland.

1. Explore the Scottish Highlands

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

2. Visit Edinburgh

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

3. Celebrate Hogmanay

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

4. Drink whisky in Islay

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

5. Visit Inverness

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

Other Things to See and Do in Scotland

1. try to find nessie.

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

2. Wander around Glasgow

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

3. See the cathedrals

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

4. Puzzle over Rosslyn Chapel

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

5. Play golf

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

6. See the Cuillin

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

7. Visit Ruins of Melrose Abbey

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

8. Explore Dundee

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

9. Visit the Mystical Smoo Cave

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

10. Head to the Isle of Arran

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

11. Explore the Cairngorms

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

12. Attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

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

13. Tour the Isle of Skye

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

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

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Scotland Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Scotland

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

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

How to Get Around Scotland

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

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

Airport shuttles cost around 6-8 GBP each way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

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

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Rosslyn Chapel

Searching for the Perfect Dram on Islay

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Mull of Galloway Lighthouse

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Scotland trip itineraries

A wee country with a big personality, Scotland has bucket-loads of experiences to offer when it comes to holidays – so how will you know where to start?

Don’t fear – we’ve lined up an array of itineraries to help you get planning your ideal Scotland trip, be that a day in the capital, a week’s island-hopping, or a three-day tour of Highland castles.

Find your perfect itinerary

© E-City Chauffeur Ltd / Patrice Mestari

Explore Scotland responsibly

Soak up the incredible views from the most sustainable transports on your Scotland trip.

Electric vehicles, bus, train - there are a few simple ways to travel around Scotland responsibly.

Train itineraries

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4-Day West Highland Railway Line Itinerary

One of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.

Inverness to Thurso & Wick by Rail

Following the Far North Line from Inverness to Thurso and Wick, this rail itinerary will take you through the dramatic north Highlands of Scotland.

2-Day Kyle Line Itinerary

Have a day out by rail and visit Plockton, Attadale and Inverness, following the Kyle Line.

Visitors explore Findhorn beach in Moray Speyside

Slow travel suggestions

Travel slowly and give these special moments the time they deserve. We've got some top suggestions for areas well worth your time and energy.

Elie harbour in the East Neuk of Fife

Tour around Scotland

Take time to travel around an area of Scotland and discover the diversity of local communities.

Get involved in events, meet new people and experience what life in Scotland is really like.

Castles & history itineraries

Visit some of Scotland's most interesting historical sites to learn more.

Highland castles itinerary

See some of Scotland's most amazing castles as you tour the Highlands over four great days.

Scotland's Castle Trail

Discover the most famous and dramatic castles in the north east with our incredible 6-day itinerary.

Victorian Heritage Trail

A historic journey around Royal Deeside.

TV & Film itineraries

Scotland's has provided an incredible backdrop for many filmsets. Visit the locations yourself to go behind the scenes.

Tour Scotland with Outlander

See Outlander filming locations, book locations and attractions with real-life Jacobite connections.

Harry Potter Film and Book Locations Itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter with our 4-day itinerary travelling from Edinburgh to the Highlands.

Scottish Film & TV locations itinerary

See filming locations for Harry Potter, Skyfall, Outlander and many more great films and TV series on this 7-day tour.

Cairn Liath broch near Brora, Highlands

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Family itineraries

Plan a family holiday with these itineraries which are packed full of activities and attractions from science museums to animal centres.

The beach at Brodick Bay with a view beyond to Goat Fell, Isle Of Arran

Island itineraries

Check out these ideas for a small taste of island life in Scotland. Options include cycling along the west coast of the Outer Hebrides, or sailing around the whisky distilleries of the Inner Hebrides.

Mitchell Lane near The Lighthouse, Glasgow

© VisitScotland / Kate Abbey

Edinburgh & Glasgow

Get the most out of your time in Scotland's biggest cities with these suggestions. We'll show you the most popular attractions, hidden gems and more.

Try something different

Scotland's unique experiences include the world's only malt whisky trail.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

Discover Scotland's magnificent north east coastline on this four day trail in Aberdeenshire.

Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail

Follow this 3-day itinerary around some of Speyside's top whisky attractions in the north east of Scotland.

Find experiences

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Other things you might like

Castles to Visit in Scotland

The Highlands

Scotch Whisky

Best Road Trips in Scotland

Scottish Islands & Island Hopping

Holiday Ideas for Scotland

Travel in & Around Scotland

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Scotland Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Guides

• Things To Do in Edinburgh
• North Coast 500

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Scotland

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

Things to See and Do in Scotland

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

Scotland Travel Guides

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

Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Ways to Get Around Scotland

Getting to scotland:.

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

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

Transportation:

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

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

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

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

When to go To Scotland

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Scotland

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

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

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

Scotland Accommodation Guides

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

What to Pack for Scotland

Packing tips.

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: Related Articles

25 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland In 2024

26 Best Things to do in Scotland in 2024

15 Best Castles in Scotland to Visit in 2024

Scotland Travel Guide

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

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

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

Scotland Cheat Sheet

Population: 5.4 million

Size: 77,910 km²

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

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

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

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

How to plan a trip to Scotland

What to pack for a trip to Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland

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

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

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

Getting around

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

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

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

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

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

Stagecoach is another popular bus company in Scotland.

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

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

How to travel Scotland on a budget

How to spend 10 days in Scotland

Top 10 Must-Sees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Places I’ve been in Scotland

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

Join my Scotland Facebook Community

Join my amazing community and get help planning your dream trip to Scotland. It’s free to join!

SCOTLAND ESSENTIALS

✨ Want a shortcut to planning your Scotland trip? Grab my Ultimate Scotland Planning bundle

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

✨ Love podcasts? Listen to my Scotland podcast Life in Scotland

✨ Looking for hidden gems in Scotland? Visit my other website Secrets of Scotland

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Scotland Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Planning a Scotland Route

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

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

An Alternative 5 to 10 Days North Coast 500 Itinerary

The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

14 Best Stops on the Edinburgh to Inverness Drive

The Ultimate London-Scotland-Ireland Itinerary

Glasgow or Edinburgh: Which Scottish City to Visit?

10 Tips for Planning a Trip to Scotland and Ireland

Places to Visit in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

The Perfect 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Isle of Skye Itinerary

The Perfect One Day in Inverness Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Glasgow Itinerary

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

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

Day Trips in Scotland

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

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

The Perfect Isle of Mull Day Trip from Oban

The Perfect Loch Ness Day Trip from Edinburgh

9 Best Day Trips from Inverness

Planning a Loch Lomond Day Trip from Glasgow & Edinburgh

Best Time to Visit Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Jacket for Scotland & Ireland

The Best Shoes for Scotland & Ireland

Cost of Travelling to Scotland

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

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

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

Is Scotland Expensive? Trip To Scotland Cost Guide in 2024

Is Edinburgh Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Edinburgh

Transportation in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 days in Scotland - 5 travel itineraries

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Sure, five days might seem like a short stint to explore everything that Scotland has to offer — but this is still enough time to make for a fantastic trip. Here's our comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect 5 days itinerary in Scotland, complete with tips and example itineraries from our seasoned travel experts.

Is 5 days enough for Scotland?

Itinerary #1: scottish family adventure, itinerary #2: scotland city trail.

• Itinerary #3: Scotland's hidden gems

Itinerary #4: History of Scotland

• Itinerary #5: Scotland's creative trail

Prepare for your 5 days itinerary in Scotland

Tailor-made travel itineraries for scotland, created by local experts.

20 days  / from 2970 USD

The Great British Road Trip

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

6 days  / from 608 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

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

11 days  / from 1061 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

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

There's no denying that Scotland offers far more than what can be squeezed into five days. However, it's still ample time to have an incredible trip, particularly if you're incorporating Scotland into a broader itinerary spanning multiple countries.

Given the limited timeframe, precision is key when planning your itinerary. Are you eager to delve into the historic landmarks and lively pub scenes of Glasgow and Edinburgh ? Or does the allure of Scotland's natural landscapes call out to you? Whichever path you choose, remember to consider typical weather conditions during your stay and factor in travel times between destinations.

Feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of itinerary planning?  Leave the details to us. With our tailor-made trip service , you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey while we take care of all the planning and bookings on your behalf. Our trips, meticulously curated by local travel experts , can be customized to your exact preferences. 

Fingal's Cave, Sea cave in Staffa Island Scotland © Shutterstock

This 5 day itinerary in Scotland is perfect for those planning a family trip. Your journey kicks off on  day one in Edinburgh. First stop? The Edinburgh Zoo — hang out with creatures from all corners of the globe, saying hello to those famous pandas. Then, dive into the world of optical illusions and stunning city vistas at Camera Obscura.

On day two , hit the road or hop on a train to Stirling . Explore the majestic Stirling Castle, a true icon of Scottish history. Don't miss the Battle of Bannockburn Experience, where you'll step back in time to a pivotal moment in Scotland's past. 

On  day three you’ll head over to Loch Lomond for a nature-filled day. Trek around the stunning loch, soak in the scenery and enjoy a leisurely family picnic. Cap it off with a visit to SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium for a peek at the wonders of the deep. 

Day four brings you to Glasgow where you can get hands-on with science at the Science Centre and journey through transport history at the Riverside Museum.

Wrap up your adventure in Falkirk on  day five . Stand in awe of the magnificent Kelpies and take a spin on the Falkirk Wheel, a marvel of engineering. Finally, it's back to Edinburgh to bid farewell or squeeze in some last-minute city exploring before you head home. Book this trip .

Stirling Castle, Scotland  © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check out this 5 days itinerary in Scotland:

• Arrival and check-in at your accommodation in Edinburgh.
• Visit Edinburgh Zoo to see a variety of animals from around the world, including the famous pandas.
• Explore Camera Obscura for a fun and interactive experience with illusions and panoramic views of the city.
• Take the train or drive to Stirling.
• Tour Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant castles.
• Experience the Battle of Bannockburn at the interactive center, where you can learn about this pivotal moment in Scottish history through fun and engaging exhibits.
• Transfer to Loch Lomond.
• Enjoy a family-friendly hike around Loch Lomond, known for its natural beauty
• Go for a family picnic.
• Visit SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium with exhibits featuring marine life native to Scotland and beyond.
• Arrive in Glasgow.
• Explore Glasgow Science Centre, a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and live demonstrations.
• Discover the transport history of Glasgow at the Riverside Museum.
• Move on to Falkirk.
• Marvel at The Kelpies, colossal horse-head sculptures standing beside the Forth and Clyde Canal, representing Scotland's industrial and equine heritage.
• Visit the Falkirk Wheel, an infamous rotating boat lift connecting two canals.
• Return to Edinburgh for departure or spend additional time exploring the city's attractions, shops, and restaurants before departing.

Old Man of Storr, Scotland © Pixabay

On this five-day itinerary in Scotland, you’ll get the chance to explore Scotland’s vibrant cities. Your adventure begins  in Glasgow on  day one , where you’ll explore the exhibits of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum before moving on to the Glasgow Science Centre

Day two sees you in Edinburgh, the historic capital, where you'll be greeted by the imposing Edinburgh Castle and the winding streets of the Royal Mile. Here you’ll have the chance to learn about Scottish history at the National Museum of Scotland. 

Next, it's off to Dundee on  day three , where you can marvel at modern design at the V&A Dundee and delve into Antarctic exploration at Discovery Point. In Aberdeen on  day four , discover the city's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum and wander through the medieval charm of Old Aberdeen. 

Finally, on  day five , journey to Stirling to visit the imposing Stirling Castle and learn about Scottish hero William Wallace at the Wallace Monument. Conclude your Scottish city tour with a return to Glasgow. Book this trip .

Ashton Lane, a cobbled backstreet in Glasgow © DrimaFilm/Shutterstock

• Arrival in Glasgow.
• Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to explore its collection of art and artifacts.
• Explore the interactive exhibits at the Glasgow Science Centre.
• Arrival in Edinburgh.
• Tour the Edinburgh Castle for panoramic views of the city and to delve into Scotland's history.
• Wander along the historic Royal Mile, lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks.
• Visit the National Museum of Scotland to learn about Scotland's natural history, culture, and innovation.
• Transfer to Dundee.
• Explore the contemporary architecture and exhibitions at V&A Dundee, Scotland's largest design museum.
• Visit the historic RRS Discovery at Discovery Point, where you can learn about Antarctic exploration.
• Arrival in Aberdeen.
• Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about Aberdeen's maritime heritage.
• Explore the historic district of Old Aberdeen with cobbled streets and medieval architecture.
• Arrival in Stirling.
• Tour the Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most important historical sites.
• Visit the Wallace Monument to learn about Scottish hero William Wallace and enjoy panoramic views.
• Return to Glasgow for departure.

Aberdeen, Scotland  © Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: Scotland's hidden gems

On this 5 day trip, you’ll travel through the lesser-known natural sights of Scotland. Your trip starts in Peebles on the  first day , where you'll wander through the ancient halls of Neidpath Castle, perched majestically above the tranquil River Tweed. Take in the Tweed Valley with leisurely strolls or opt for more adventurous hikes along its scenic trails.

Day two welcomes you to the picturesque village of Plockton, nestled along Scotland's rugged coastline. Spend the day discovering the enchanting Coral Beaches, accessible by car or via scenic coastal paths, and keep an eye out for playful seals frolicking in the nearby waters. As the afternoon wanes, return to Plockton, soaking in the scenic route on the way back.

In Aberdeenshire on  day three , explore the Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically atop cliffs overlooking the North Sea and the rugged beauty of the Bullers of Buchan's coastal inlet.

Day four finds you in Moray , where you'll discover the quirky eco-community of Findhorn and see the natural wonder of Bow Fiddle Rock's striking sea arch. Finally, on  day five , you’ll explore the quaint fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife, including Anstruther, Pittenweem, and Crail, before bidding farewell to Scotland. Book this trip .

Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire, Scotland  © Shutterstock

• Arrival in Peebles.
• Explore the Neidpath Castle, a historic fortress overlooking the River Tweed.
• Enjoy walks in the Tweed Valley, with options for leisurely strolls or more adventurous hikes.
• Arrival in Plockton.
• Head to the Coral Beaches, located near Plockton. You can reach the beaches by car or by walking along the coastal paths, enjoying the scenery along the way.
• Seal-spotting adventure. Head to areas known for seal colonies, such as nearby rocky outcrops or islands.
• Return to Plockton village in the late afternoon, taking in the scenic views along the way.
• Transfer to Aberdeenshire.
• Tour the Dunnottar Castle, a cliff-top fortress with views of the North Sea.
• Explore the unique rock formations and seabird colonies at the Bullers of Buchan, a coastal inlet near Peterhead.
• Arrive in Moray.
• Discover the charming village of Findhorn, known for its eco-community and l coastal scenery.
• Visit Bow Fiddle Rock, a natural sea arch near Portknockie, which offers views and photo opportunities.
• Transfer to East Neuk of Fife.
• Explore the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife, such as Anstruther, Pittenweem, and Crail.
• Visit Kellie Castle, a historic mansion with gardens and views over the Firth of Forth
• Return to Peebles for your departure home.

Tweed Valley from Glentress Forest,  Peebles, Scottish Borders, Scotland  © Shutterstock

This 5-day itinerary is perfect for anyone who wants to dive deep into Scottish history.  Day one  kicks off in Edinburgh, where you'll stroll through the enchanting Old Town, taking in the sights of the Royal Mile and the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Don't miss the chance to uncover the secrets of The Real Mary King’s Close, delving into the city's hidden history. 

Day two brings you to Rosslyn, home to the famed Rosslyn Chapel adorned with intricate carvings and symbolism. Explore the historic abbeys of the Scottish Borders, steeped in architectural beauty and historical significance. 

On  day three , fly to Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands , where you'll step back in time to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae and marvel at the ancient stone circle of the Ring of Brodgar. Then, transfer to Fort William on  day four to soak up the area's history at the West Highland Museum before embarking on a scenic ride aboard the Jacobite Steam Train through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands .

Round off your adventure in Stirling on  day five , exploring Doune Castle and the Battle of Bannockburn site, before returning to Edinburgh for a well-deserved dinner and departure. Book this trip .

Eilean Castle, Scotland  © Shutterstock

• Explore the Old Town, including the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
• Take a tour of The Real Mary King’s Close to delve into the hidden history beneath the city's streets.
• Arrive in Rosslyn.
• Visit Rosslyn Chapel, famous for its intricate carvings. 
• Explore the historic abbeys of the Scottish Borders, such as Melrose Abbey and Jedburgh Abbey.
• Fly to Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands.
• Explore the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the ancient stone circle of the Ring of Brodgar, one of the largest in Scotland
• Return to the Mainland and overnight in Kirkwall.
• Transfer to Fort William.
• Visit the West Highland Museum in Fort William.
• Experience the Jacobite Steam Train on a scenic journey through the landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
• Overnight in Fort William.
• Transfer to  Stirling.
• Explore Doune Castle, a medieval fortress famous for its appearance in the TV series Outlander.
• Visit the Battle of Bannockburn site and learn about the pivotal moment in Scottish history.
• Return to Edinburgh for dinner and departure.

Dean village, Edinburgh, Scotland  © Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Scotland's creative trail

If you’re the type of traveler who likes to focus on a destination’s artistic culture, this 5 day itinerary is made for you. Your trip will begin in Glasgow on day one , where you'll delve into the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and uncover the creative legacy of the Glasgow School of Art.  Day two takes you to Alloway, where you'll pay homage to Scotland's national poet at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and explore the picturesque Brig O’Doon, steeped in literary history.

Arriving in Dundee on day three , you’ll have the chance to explore the innovative exhibitions at V&A Dundee and learn of fascinating tales of Antarctic exploration at Discovery Point. From there, you won’t want to miss the chance to soak up contemporary art and culture at the Dundee Contemporary Arts Museum. 

Day four brings you to Aberdeen, where you'll take in the impressive art collection at the Aberdeen Art Gallery and explore the local street art in the city's Old Town. Finally, on  day five , arrive in Edinburgh to enjoy masterpieces in the Scottish National Gallery and delve into the literary heritage at the Writers' Museum. You’ll wrap up your trip with a return to Glasgow. Book this trip .

Clyde Arc, Glasgow   © Shutterstock

• Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery to explore its collection of art and artifacts.
• Take a tour of the Glasgow School of Art to learn about its design and artistic heritage.
• Drive to Alloway.
• Explore the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, dedicated to Scotland's national poet.
• Visit the Brig O’Doon, a picturesque bridge immortalized in Burns' poetry.

Day 3: 

• Arrive in Dundee.
• Explore the exhibitions and contemporary design at V&A Dundee.
• Visit Discovery Point to learn about Captain Scott's Antarctic expedition aboard the RRS Discovery.
• Explore the Dundee Contemporary Arts Museum, featuring contemporary art exhibitions, independent cinema, and a cafe.
• Arrive in Aberdeen.
• Explore the Aberdeen Art Gallery to see its collection of art, including works by Scottish Colourists and contemporary artists.
• Take a street art tour of Aberdeen's Old Town to discover murals and graffiti art.
• Arrive to Edinburgh.
• Visit the Scottish National Gallery to see its collection of Scottish and international art, including works by artists such as Rembrandt and Monet.
• Explore the Writers' Museum to learn about Scotland's literary heritage and the lives of writers such as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
• Depart for home.

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

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

Ready to plan your own 5-day itinerary in Scotland? See our Rough Guide to Scotland for expert insights and plenty of planning tips to get started.

The Rough Guides to Scotland and related travel guides

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

Travel advice for Scotland

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

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

Find even more inspiration here

updated 29.03.2024

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Scotland Travel Guide

Scotland offers an unparalleled blend of stunning natural beauty, charming villages, bustling cities and a rich history.

This unique combination makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers, history buffs, whiskey enthusiasts and foodies alike. Whatever type of traveler you are, there’s something that’ll tickle your fancy in Scotland. (You can quote me on that!)

From fairytale Edinburgh to moss-covered glens in the Isle of Skye, and from buzzing Glasgow to colorful seaside villages, there are truly endless places to explore and things to do in Scotland.

We’ve got all sorts of resources and articles for you to help plan your dream Scotland trip!

Not sure where to start?

Read this article to find out the  best time to visit Scotland , and when you should avoid visiting

Find out all of the best places to visit in Scotland to help you plan your trip

Check out our campervan rental guide for everything you need to know about getting a campervan hire in Scotland

And… don’t miss your chance to download our ultimate Scotland road trip itinerary !

Scotland travel resources

Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit?

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24 Fun Things to do in Inverness, Scotland

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37 Unique Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland

If you’re traveling to Scotland, you don’t want to miss this list of things to do in Glasgow. Considered the gateway to many other incredible adventures in Scotland, it’s bound to be on your travel itinerary. In this guide, we’re sharing our top picks to help you plan your visit...

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16 Essential Tips for Driving in Scotland + How to choose the BEST Rental Car

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17 Dreamy Scotland Glamping Stays

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ULTIMATE Guide to Isle of Skye, Scotland: 29 Things to do + Essential Tips

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How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

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33 Unforgettable Things to do in Scotland

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Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Scotland makes a great place to travel for jaw-dropping scenery, interesting history and a lively, welcoming culture. We put together this overview to help you determine the best time to visit Scotland and what you can expect during each season.

North Coast 500: Guide to Scotland’s Most Scenic Road Trip Route

The North Coast 500 route is the best road trip in the UK. To make the most of your trip through Scotland, it is important to plan ahead. This guide to visiting the NC500 will ensure you have a smooth journey.

Land’s End to John o’ Groats: How to Travel the Length of the UK

Traversing the length of the UK is quite the feat and requires some preparation and planning—especially if you plan to travel from Land’s End to John o’ Groats on foot or bicycle. In this article we break down the highlights and different route options to help you plan your journey.

Inverness to Isle of Skye: How to Get There + Tips

Traveling from Inverness to Isle of Skye is doable, but requires some advanced planning with a few different transportation methods. In this guide, we’ve broken down all the best options for traveling between both can’t-miss destinations.

Edinburgh to Isle of Skye: How to Get There + Tips

Traveling from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye is doable, but requires some advanced planning with so many different transportation options. In this guide, we’ve broken down all the best options for traveling between both can’t-miss destinations.

Glasgow to Inverness: How to Get There + Tips

Getting from Glasgow to Inverness is straightforward with all of Scotland’s readily available transportation options. This guide breaks down all your options to get from one to the other.

Edinburgh to Inverness: How to Get There + Tips

Traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness is simple with so many different transportation options. In this guide, we cover all the different ways you can get from one city to the other to make the most out of your visit.

22 Scottish Foods to Try in Scotland

Scottish food is the epitome of comfort cuisine. From the infamous haggis to lesser-known dishes, like cullen skink, we’ve rounded up the best Scottish foods to try (plus, a couple to skip!).

How to Choose the Best Loch Ness Cruise or Boat Tour

With stunning Scotland Highlands scenery, ancient castles, and the elusive “Nessie,” visiting Loch Ness is a must! Specifically, a Loch Ness cruise allows you to experience all those quintessentially Scottish attractions. Read on for what to expect and which cruises are best.

21 Enchanting Scotland Castles You Can Visit

Whether you’re chasing fairytales or interested in history, you’re never too far from a castle in Scotland. In this guide, we dish out all the most enticing Scotland castles you can visit and actually tour or see up close!

The Old Man of Storr: Scotland’s Most Popular Hike

You’ve probably heard of the Old Man of Storr walk — it’s one of the most popular hikes in Scotland, and for good reason! We put together this guide with everything you need to know about how to do this iconic hike yourself and what to expect.

7 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh

When visiting Edinburgh, you must experience the beloved midday tradition of high tea. In this guide we uncover the best afternoon tea in Edinburgh and everything you need to know for planning and reserving your high tea experience.

Arthur’s Seat: Edinburgh’s Best Hike

Looking out over Edinburgh from the summit of Arthur’s Seat, it’s hard to believe you’re just a stones throw from the city center. Find out exactly how to do this popular hike, what you should know before you go and tips for the trail in this super detailed guide to...

Dean Village: Visit Edinburgh’s most Beautiful Neighborhood

With the river flowing through its center, cobblestone streets, and a distinct lack of crowds or traffic, it’s easy to see why locals and visitors alike love Dean Village. In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Edinburgh’s cutest neighborhood.

Isle of Skye Fairy Pools: ULTIMATE Hiking Guide (+ Tips!)

Exploring Scotland’s Isle of Skye Fairy Pools is an unforgettable, almost magical experience. We put together this guide with all you need to know about visiting the stunning natural wonder in Skye. 

Devil’s Pulpit: Scotland’s Most Mysterious Hike

Home to the famed Devil’s Pulpit rock formation, this unique and mysterious hike known as Finnich Glen is something you have to see to believe. We’ll show you exactly how to get to the hidden footpath leading down into the canyon, plus what to expect.

20 Best Airbnbs in Edinburgh, Scotland

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London to Edinburgh: How to Get There + Tips

Are you planning to travel from London to Edinburgh? There are multiple ways to reach the popular Scottish tourist hub. In this guide, we've detailed all the various transportation methods to help you plan your route.

Bunk Campers: Honest Review of Scotland’s Best Campervan Rental

Planning an epic Scotland road trip and looking for the best campervan rental in Scotland? We’re sharing why we chose Bunk Campers and our honest opinions about the campervan hire process. Plus, we’ll bring you on a tour of our rental motorhome!

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

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Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Scotland Road Trip Guide: Epic 7-Day Itinerary

10 January 2023 · In: Road Trip , Scotland , UK

Are you looking for an unforgettable road trip itinerary? You have come to the right place! Here is a complete guide to Scotland, including how to get around, when to visit and an incredible 7-day itinerary that ensures you see the best attractions and sights this magical country offers.

From mystical lochs to historic castles and breathtaking mountain scenery, this travel guide is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to get to know this country and its locals on a deeper level.

With its dramatic landscapes and vibrant culture, Scotland provides plenty of opportunities for a perfect road trip any time of the year. Travelling across the Highlands to the islands, you will uncover a unique culture, heritage and way of life. Explore weaving streets, sample local cuisine and go on an epic hike – it will be an adventure you will never forget.

So do not let this opportunity slip away. Come and discover all Scotland has to offer in one week by taking the most exciting road trip ever. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

Isle of Skye

Overview: 7-day scotland road trip.

• Day 1: Edinburgh
• Day 2: Edinburgh to Stirling to Pitlochry
• Day 3: Pitlochry to Cairngorms to Inverness
• Day 4: Inverness to the Isle of Skye
• Day 5: Tour the Isle of Skye
• Day 6: Skye to Fort William to Glencoe
• Day 7: Glencoe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

How many days for a road trip across Scotland

I suggest spending  at least seven days  on a road trip in Scotland, so you can enjoy every stunning spot along your route and appreciate all of the natural beauty of this country.

Of course, the time needed for your road trip will also depend on where you want to go and which sights you have in mind. In all cases, it is best to give yourself between five days and two weeks.

Travelling by car will be the easiest way to explore the country, but be realistic with how many miles you are willing to drive each day. Do not forget to consider travel distances and time for each stop, and make sure your car has good fuel economy – the remoteness of Scotland means gas stations can be few and far between. 

Budgeting for your trip is also essential – scoping out prices for accommodations around Scotland will help ensure a memorable and worry-free journey.

Finally, leave room for the unexpected and remember to throw in a few surprises along the way!

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How to get around Scotland

Scotland is an incredible place to explore, and a road trip is a way to do it. In whichever corner of the country you may be in, there are many options for getting around.

The best way to road trip across Scotland is by car. This way, you can go at your own pace and stop whenever and wherever you like. You will also have the freedom to change your plans on the go if you find something that looks interesting. Just be sure to research driving conditions in advance, as some roads can be narrow and winding, and the weather can be unpredictable.

You can bring your own car or rent one in Edinburgh. I recommend using  rentalcar.com  to search and compare which car is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.

2- By motorhome

Another great option for exploring Scotland is by motorhome. This way, you will have your accommodation with you at all times, so you will not have to worry about finding a place to stay each night. Plus, you will save money by reducing your expenses. Just be sure to book your campsites in advance, as they can fill up quickly during peak season.

You can rent your motorhome from Edinburgh or bring your own if you have one.

3- By public transport

If you want to sit back and relax whilst someone else does the driving, then taking public transport such as a train or bus is a great option. The rail network of Scotland is reliable and offers stunning scenery, especially if you take the route from Glasgow to Fort William. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance, as prices can increase closer to the travel date.

If you are feeling energetic and adventurous, why not road trip through Scotland by bike? It is a great way to see the country and is excellent for the environment. Plus, there are many routes to choose from, so you can easily find one that suits your fitness level and interests.

5- By guided tour

Finally, another great way to explore Scotland is by using a guided tour. If you are not comfortable driving or prefer someone to take you around, it is one of the best ways to experience the country and its hidden gem from a local perspective. You will find many small tours starting from Edinburgh. Check out  Happy Tours ,  Highland Explorer Tours  and  Rabbie’s .

7-day Scotland road trip – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Best 7-day Scotland road trip itinerary

This Scotland road trip is excellent for a 1-week vacation. From stunning oceans to soaring mountains, your journey will take you straight out of a storybook and offers a perfect taste of the unique Scottish culture.

On the other hand, this self-drive itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in one area or add other stops on your journey. Scotland has something for everyone: you will not run out of things to do and see!

Here is my suggestion for where to stop on a road trip across Scotland with an itinerary idea for 7 days.

Day 1 – Edinburgh

Your adventure in Scotland begins with the magical city of  Edinburgh . 

With an international airport connecting most big cities, Edinburgh is the perfect getaway and an excellent starting point for your road trip.

Whether you like exploring, shopping, relaxing or sampling delicious food, this city has it all. From its unique medieval architecture, quaint cobbled streets and magnificent perched castle, you will have no shortage of ideas for things to do and see. Plus, it is an ideal place for families with children or couples on a romantic holiday. 

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN EDINBURGH

• Visit Edinburgh Castle
• Walk the Royal Mile
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat
• Treat yourself to an afternoon tea at The Elephant House
• Watch the sunset from Calton Hill
• Take a tour of Holyrood Palace & Holyrood Abbey
• Savour a wee dram at the Scotch Whisky Experience
• Stroll through Victoria Street
• Enjoy the view from the Scott Monument
• Soak up the culture at the National Museum of Scotland

Day 2 – Edinburgh to Stirling to Pitlochry

Edinburgh – Pitlochry: 2 hours / 94 miles

Linlithgow Palace 

Edinburgh – Linlithgow Palace: 45 minutes / 20 miles

Here you go – your road trip across Scotland begins! 

Your first stop will be the  Linlithgow Palace , a magnificent 15th-century royal palace located in the historic town of Linlithgow, offering an incredible insight into Scottish history. Whether you travel alone with kids or friends, you can enjoy stunning views and explore the palace grounds. 

Once there, you can visit ancient bedrooms, drink rooms and courtyards whilst learning about the fascinating Scottish heritage. There are also plenty of activities at the palace, such as viewing exhibitions, attending concerts or simply taking a peaceful stroll. So do miss out on this unique place! 

The Kelpies

Linlithgow Palace – The Kelpies: 20 minutes / 9 miles

On the edge of the Falkirk district, you will come across the iconic  Kelpies , 30-metre-tall sculptures depicting two majestic horses. Visiting them can be an exciting stopover during a trip to the area or makes for a great day out.

Made with 10,000 individual pieces of steel, they are the largest equine sculptures in the world and a sight to behold, representing the strength and spirit of the main industry in Scotland: horses. They are certainly a memorable experience to share with your friends and family!

The Kelpies – Stirling: 30 minutes / 18 miles

Stirling  is a city in central Scotland located in the Stirlingshire district and has become a popular stopover for travellers and road trippers.

It is easily accessible and offers much to do with many attractions waiting to be discovered, such as visiting Stirling Castle or taking part in outdoor activities at the nearby lochs or the Ochil Hills. You can also learn about its history by visiting sites such as Bannockburn, before finishing your trip with a tasty scone and cup of tea from one of its many cafes. 

With so much to explore and experience, Stirling should not be missed during your Scottish adventure!

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN STIRLING 

• Visit Stirling Castle
• Explore the National Wallace Monument
• Stroll through the Stirling Smith Art Gallery
• Take a tour of the Old Town Jail
• Admire the Cambuskenneth Abbey 
• Enjoy a visit to Plean Country Park

Stirling – Pitlochry: 1 hour 10 minutes / 58 miles

Your first day in Scotland ends with  Pitlochry , known as the Jewel of Scotland, and it truly lives up to its name. 

Located in the Scottish Highlands, this charming town is an ideal last stopover for travellers exploring the country. Whether you look for stunning natural beauty, Highland hospitality or unique activities to enjoy, Pitlochry has something for everyone. 

Here you can try your hand at a honey tasting, admire the tallest treehouse in Britain and venture into the dramatic Ben Vrackie gorge for thrilling hikes. No matter how long your stay in Pitlochry lasts, do take time to soak up the beauty of Scotland that fills every corner of this enchanting place!

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN PITLOCHRY 

• Explore Blair Athol Distillery
• Head to the Queen’s View
• Venture to the summit of Ben Vrackie
• See the River Tummel
• Walk through the Hermitage

Day 3 – Pitlochry to Cairngorms to Inverness

Pitlochry – Inverness: 1 hour 40 minutes / 86 miles

Cairngorms National Park

Pitlochry – Cairngorms National Park: 1 hour 15 minutes / 58 miles

Your second day in Scotland continues with the stunning  Cairngorms National Park . Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this protected area encompasses mountains, lochs, rivers and traditional landscapes. Not only will you be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty: with vibrant towns, outdoor activities and plenty of wildlife, there are plenty of things to do within park boundaries. 

Take a gentle walk on a nature trail or challenge yourself with higher-adrenaline pursuits such as skiing or climbing – there are activities for all abilities and ages. Keep an eye out for native species ranging from wildcats to reindeer and red squirrels; whatever type of adventure you want to experience, you will find it in Cairngorms National Park!

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

THINGS TO DO & SEE CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK

• Drive on the Snowroads Scenic Route
• Go off the beaten track to explore Badenoch
• Enjoy the thrill of mountain biking
• Visit the Highland Wildlife Park 
• Take a tour of the Malt Whisky Trail
• Head to Ballindalloch Castle
• Admire the Old Pack Horse Bridge

Cairngorms National Park – Inverness: 50 minutes / 37 miles

Your second day of road-tripping across Scotland ends in  Inverness , a vibrant city located on the northeast coast of Scotland, offering spectacular views and a range of exciting things to do. 

Explore the renowned ruins of Inverness Castle, take in some local history at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery or wander through the winding streets and get lost in the vivid charm of the city. There is ample opportunity for shopping and satisfying your taste buds with delicious local cuisine. 

If nature is more your thing, adventure awaits you in ancient forests nearby – kayaking down rivers or scaling mountains as you embrace all that the outdoors has to offer. 

Day 4 – Inverness to the Isle of Skye

Inverness – Isle of Skye: 2 hours 30 minutes / 106 miles

Inverness – Loch Ness: 30 minutes / 14 miles

It is impossible not to mention the well-known  Loch Ness  on this Scotland road trip. Mystical and picturesque, this loch is steeped in history and is one of the most famous places in the world for its dramatic scenery, great adventure sports, nearby castles and isolated lighthouses. If you have ever wanted to meet Nessie, you have stopped at the right place! 

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN LOCH NESS

• Experience unique Loch Ness views
• Embark on a picturesque hike
• Discover Urquhart Castle
• Wander in Fort Augustus
• Stop by the waterfalls

Eilean Donan Castle

Loch Ness – Eilean Donan Castle: 1 hour 35 minutes / 66 miles

Eilean Donan Castle  is an iconic small island located in the western Highlands of Scotland, and it constantly tops the list of must-see stops for those travelling through the country. 

Even those who may not be avid sightseers can appreciate its magnificent features and the captivating history behind the walls. Set in a picturesque location surrounded by majestic mountains and clear waters, this castle is a thrilling destination that should be added to your road trip itinerary. 

There are also some great things to do around Eilean Donan, such as visiting other nearby castles, exploring shops and pubs in the village or taking on one of the challenging hikes across the sea lochs. Whether you are stopping over for an hour or a few hours, make it part of your trip.

Eilean Donan Castle – Portree: 1 hour / 43 miles

You have finally reached the fantastic  Isle of Skye ! Connected to the northwest coast of Scotland by a bridge, the island is known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles, boasting plenty of things to do for all ages.

You will find that the locals are friendly and welcoming, inviting you to experience their culture and learn more about the landscape that makes up their proud region. And as a popular destination for nature lovers and sight-seekers, the Isle offers breathtaking sceneries from its numerous cliffs, sweeping moorland and rugged coastline. 

For this fourth day of your road trip, head to Portree, the largest town and capital of the island, for a chill evening before a long day of exploration. 

Day 5 – Tour the Isle of Skye

You will devote your fifth day in Scotland to the incredible  Isle of Skye . Explore the island at your own pace and enjoy all the beauty it has to offer! Here are some of the best things to do and see:

1- Visit the Old Man of Storr 

The Old Man of Storr is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Isle of Skye. The towering rock formation, located north of the island, can easily be reached via a short hike. Once at the top, you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2- Explore the Fairy Pools 

The Fairy Pools are located in Glen Brittle and are one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Isle of Skye. The crystal-clear pools are fed by a series of waterfalls surrounded by towering mountains, and you can swim in them or enjoy taking in the natural beauty of the area.

3- Visit Dunvegan Castle 

Dunvegan Castle is a must-visit for anyone interested in Scottish history. The castle has been the home of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years and is filled with fascinating artefacts. Highlights of a visit to Dunvegan Castle include exploring the gardens, going on a boat tour of Loch Dunvegan and visiting the on-site museum.

4- Drive along the Trotternish Peninsula 

The Trotternish Peninsula is located north of the Isle of Skye and is home to some of the most dramatic scenery on the island. Highlights of a drive along the peninsula include stopping at Kilt Rock (a sea cliff that looks like a kilt), viewing the Old Man of Storr and admiring the Quiraing (a landslip that has created a phenomenal landscape).

5- Go wildlife watching 

The Isle of Skye is home to an abundance of wildlife, including red deer, otters, seals, eagles, and dolphins. Numerous companies offer wildlife tours, which provide an excellent opportunity to spot some of the resident animals of Skye in their natural habitat.

Day 6 – Skye to Fort William to Glencoe

Isle of Skye – Glencoe: 3 hours 20 minutes / 98 miles (with ferry)

After a magical day on Skye, you continue your Scotland road trip to Glencoe. Instead of taking the bridge to leave the island, take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig. If you are short on time, do not worry too much, but this road will provide superb scenery and landmarks in the Glenfinnan area.

The village of Mallaig is also an excellent spot for a stopover, with its fascinating local culture and various attractions such as Jacobite cruises. 

Isle of Skye – Glenfinnan: 2 hours 25 minutes / 65 miles (with ferry)

The main stopover on your way to Glencoe will be the  Glenfinnan area , located in the northwest Highlands, offering many great highlights and natural attractions. The lush greenery of the surrounding hills and waterways creates magnificent scenery at any time of year.

You will find plenty to do, including fishing, bird watching, boat tours, visiting nearby castles and standing stones or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll around one of the lochs. In addition, take a well-deserved break by  St Mary & St Finnan Church . And, of course, do not forget to stop by the famous  Glenfinnan Viaduct  (especially if you are a Harry Potter fan). It will provide unforgettable experiences for all the family!

Fort William

Glenfinnan – Fort William: 25 minutes / 17 miles

Fort William  is a town in the western Scottish Highlands, on the shores of Loch Linnhe, and a great place to visit. With its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, you can easily spend hours exploring what the area offers. From fishing by the lochs to mountain biking or hiking up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, there is plenty to do for all levels and ages. 

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN FORT WILLIAM

• Climb Ben Nevis
• Hike to Steall Falls
• Walk across Neptune’s Staircase
• Explore the Old Inverlochy Castle

Glenfinnan – Glencoe: 30 minutes / 16 miles

Your fifth day in Scotland ends in  Glencoe , a village in western Scotland, lying in the steep-sided Glencoe valley in the Scottish Highlands. The area is known for waterfalls and trails that climb impressive peaks, such as Buachaille Etive Mor and Bidean Nam Bian. 

Stroll among the Jacobite Mountains and take in their wild grandeur, explore the majestic ruins of medieval castles, or experience wildlife spotting on Loch Leven – the area has plenty to offer all types of travellers and the perfect way to end your day.

Day 7 – Glencoe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh 

Glencoe – Edinburgh: 2 hours 55 minutes / 119 miles

Loch Lomond

Glencoe – Loch Lomond: 1 hour 25 minutes / 61 miles

Get ready for your final day in Scotland! On your way back to Edinburgh, stop by  Loch Lomond , a lake in southern Scotland, part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. You will find a multitude of breathtaking scenery and wildlife – a perfect Scottish goodbye.

Here are the top things to do and see in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: 

1- Take a hike

One of the best ways to explore Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is on foot. There are a variety of hiking trails to suit all abilities, so take your pick. If you are feeling adventurous, why not try the West Highland Way, which runs 96 miles from Glasgow to Fort William? Or, if you are looking for something shorter, there are plenty of options for half-day or few hours hikes.

2- Go fishing

Loch Lomond is renowned for its fishing, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch a big one. Whether you are an experienced angler or a complete novice, you will find a spot perfect for your level. You can fish from the shore or a boat, with plenty of fishing guides available if you need help getting started.

3- Take a boat trip

There is no better way to appreciate the beauty of Loch Lomond than from the water. There are many boat trips available, but I recommend reading the website carefully and paying attention to green credentials. You can also hire your boat if you fancy taking things at your own pace – canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the loch.

4- Visit Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The castle has been home to the Duke of Argyll for centuries and is now open to the public. You can explore the castle grounds, gardens and museum or enjoy an afternoon tea in the cafe. 

Loch Lomond – Edinburgh: 2 hours 55 minutes / 119 miles

Your 7-day road trip through Scotland ends in Edinburgh. The journey can be long, so do not hesitate to stop and take a few detours on your way.

If you have the time, stroll around the city and do some final shopping, or relax in one of its cafes. 

I hope you enjoyed this road trip across Scotland, the Highlands and Skye! 

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Best time to road trip through Scotland

Scotland is a beautiful country filled with unique and fascinating sights to explore and a popular destination for travellers all year round. If you are looking for the best time to visit, it depends on what kind of experience you want. 

Overall, the best times for a road trip through Scotland are  between April and June or September and October . These months offer mild temperatures and relatively dry weather (although always bring a waterproof jacket), ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking. As a bonus, the colours will be lovely, with some snow on top of the mountains in the Highlands.

If you are looking for warmer weather and long days with plenty of sunshine,  summer  is an ideal time to travel to Scotland. Temperatures can reach up to 25°C, and the nights are longer, offering a perfect amount of daytime for exploration. However, the season also brings more tourists and crowds in certain areas. 

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more cultural (and unique) experience, the  winter  season is an excellent choice. Although temperatures may drop to 0°C or below and the weather can be unpredictable, there is no better way to get into the festive spirit than seeing beautiful Scotland glisten under snowfall. Plus, it is the ideal season if you love skiing! 

Either way, you will not regret visiting Scotland any time of year 🙂

Can I wild camp in Scotland?

Wild camping is legal in Scotland, making it a perfect road trip destination for outdoor adventures, alone or with friends. 

With breathtaking landscapes and plenty of natural spaces, you can immerse yourself in Scottish culture and explore a wide range of flora and fauna.

Whether it is up in the Highlands on the Isle of Skye or down by the coast at Loch Lomond, it is easy to find a proffered spot for wild camping during your Scottish adventure. So pack your tent, adventurous spirit and fortified scotch whiskey, and get closer to wildlife than ever before! 

However, remember that there are still some rules to follow when wild camping, such as respecting wildlife, local culture and the environment.

Tips for driving in Scotland

1- be prepared for the weather.

The weather in Scotland can be very unpredictable, so it is necessary to be prepared for all conditions when driving. Check the weather in advance, be ok to change your plan and make sure you have a good map of the area you want to explore, as well as a reliable GPS. It is also a good idea to pack some warm and waterproof clothes.

2- Drive on the left side of the road

In Scotland, as in the rest of the UK, cars drive on the left side of the road. It can take some getting used to if you are used to driving on the right, so it is essential to be extra careful when it is your first road trip in Scotland. Pay attention to signs and road markings, and take time to get used to the new traffic pattern.

3- Be aware of sheep on the road

Sheep are common on Scottish roads, so be aware of them when driving. If you see a flock of sheep on the road ahead, slow down and be prepared to stop. Plus, they can be unpredictable, so it is best not to take any chances.

4- Watch out for narrow roads

Many of the roads in Scotland are relatively narrow, so be careful when driving on them. Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for oncoming traffic. If possible, go slowly and avoid passing other cars on narrow roads, as it can be dangerous.

5- Enjoy the scenery!

One of the best things about driving in Scotland is that there is so much beautiful scenery to enjoy. So make sure you take some time to appreciate it! Pull over at picturesque panoramas when safe, and take in the view.

Essentials to pack for a road trip through Scotland

1- a good camera.

One of the essentials to pack for a road trip through Scotland is a camera. The country is stunning, and you will want to be able to capture all of the breathtaking landscapes. If you do not have a DSLR, do not worry – even a smartphone will do the trick. Just make sure to bring along a portable charger , so you do not run out of battery halfway through the day.

2- Comfortable shoes

Another essential to pack for a road trip through Scotland is a pair (or two) of comfortable shoes. You will likely be doing a lot of walking, whether you are exploring Edinburgh or hiking in the Highlands. So, make sure your shoes are up for the task. If you do not have any comfortable shoes, now is the time to invest in a (sustainable and durable) pair. Your feet will thank you later.

3- Warm clothes

Another essential for a road trip through Scotland is warm clothes. Even if you are visiting in the summer, it is always a good idea to pack a (waterproof) jacket or sweater as the weather can change quickly. And if you visit in the winter, you will need warm clothes as it can get quite cold. So, pack accordingly, and you will be all set.

4- An adapter

If you plan on using any electronic devices on your road trip through Scotland, you will need an adapter as the country uses different plugs than what you use in North America or the rest of Europe. You can easily find adapters at any electronics store or supermarket. Just remember to grab one before your trip, so you do not find yourself stuck without one when you need it most.

5- A road map

Last but not least, one of the essentials to pack for a road trip through Scotland is a road map (or GPS). Whilst most people rely on their phones these days, it is always good to have a backup just in case there is no cell service or your battery dies. Plus, there is something nostalgic about using an old-fashioned paper map when exploring a new place 🙂 

Other eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Eco-Travel
• 10 Best Zero-Waste & Reef-Safe Sunscreens
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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Prepare for your perfect outdoor adventure and explore responsibly.

Tips for reducing your eco-impact on a road trip

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit. And this applies to road trips!

Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move freely and discover so many incredible places at our own pace. However, they can also have negative environmental impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting  eco-responsible habits  is essential.

Here are some simple tips for creating an unforgettable adventure in Scotland with less impact.

1- Plan your route in advance

One of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact on a road trip is to plan your route in advance. I know getting lost on a road trip can feel fun and exciting, but when trying to minimise your footprint, planning your itinerary will help avoid making unnecessary stops or detours, wasting fuel and increasing your carbon footprint. 

Additionally, planning your route beforehand will help you avoid getting lost, and the shorter the distance you travel, the less fuel you will use and the less harmful emissions you will produce. Bonus tip: Get offline maps to stay on track even if you lose signal. 

2- Bring a reusable filtered water bottle & lunch boxes

Another way to reduce your environmental impact on a road trip is to bring a reusable filtered water bottle and lunch boxes. It will help avoid buying single-use items that will finish wasted in landfills. Instead, pack healthy, plastic-free snacks and refill your water bottle at each stop. It will also help you save money, as buying food and drinks at gas stations can be expensive.

3- Avoid idling your engine

When you stop on a road trip, avoid idling your engine. Idling wastes fuel and emits harmful pollutants into the environment. If you stop for more than a minute or two, it is best to turn off your engine. It will help to save fuel and money and reduce your emissions.

4- Keep your tires inflated

Another tip for reducing your environmental impact on a road trip is to keep your tires inflated. Properly inflated tires can improve your fuel economy by up to 3%. It means you will use less fuel throughout your trip, which will help reduce your emissions. Additionally, properly inflated tires can also improve the safety of your vehicle, as they provide better traction and handling.

5- Drive smoothly

Finally, one of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact on a road trip is to drive smoothly. It means avoiding sudden acceleration or braking, as they lead to wasted fuel and increased emissions. Additionally, travelling mindfully will help you conserve energy and improve the efficiency of your vehicle.

Want to know more?

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Scotland travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your road trip across Scotland stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Scotland. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Scotland is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Scotland is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable to luxury.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Scotland road trip – FAQ

I suggest spending at least five days   in Scotland, so you can enjoy every stunning spot along your route and appreciate all of the natural beauty of this country.

The best months to go to Scotland are April and June or September and October. These months offer mild temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking. As a bonus, the colours will be lovely, with some snow on top of the mountains in the Highlands.

Driving in Scotland is easy, but be mindful of the unpredictable weather, narrow roads and flocks of sheep. Make sure you have a good map of the area you want to explore and a reliable GPS.

And you, have you ever experienced a road trip across Scotland or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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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

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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 !

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The Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide

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Scroll to the bottom of the page for your Free PDF Download of The Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide

Welcome to the Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide, your comprehensive resource for exploring the captivating wonders of Scotland. Whether you’re drawn to the misty landscapes of the Highlands, the vibrant cities steeped in history or the enchanting islands scattered along the coast, this guide is designed to provide you with everything you need to make the most of your Scottish adventure. From ancient castles to picturesque lochs, from lively festivals to tranquil hiking trails, Scotland offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you awe-inspired. So, grab your tartan, prepare to delve into fascinating folklore and let us be your trusted companion as we embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Scotland.

Scotland Travel Guide

What you need to know before your visit to scotland.

Travel Documents 

Travel Insurance 

Money/Currency 

Facts about Scotland 

Scottish Customs 

Planning your trip 

When to visit 

What to pack .

Places to visit

Where to stay 

Airports in Scotland 

Getting there

Getting around in Scotland

Taxis 

Trains 

Buses 

Other 

Food and Drink 

Useful links and information 

Travel documents 

Passports .

To be safe, check with your travel agent or airline before travelling. 

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom and to enter the United Kingdom, foreign visitors need a passport. Irish citizens may continue to use their national ID card after 1 October 2021. 

Visas 

Some visitors to Scotland might need a visa to enter but this will depend on your Citizenship. If you’re a citizen of a European Economic Area (EEA) member state (27 countries of the European Union, together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and many other countries including the USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, you don’t need a visa to visit the United Kingdom or Scotland. 

You can check here if you need a UK Visa: https:// www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa 

You could also contact your local Scottish embassy/ consulate before you travel to find out your visa requirements. 

What goods can I bring into Scotland?

Most everyday items will be allowed but there are some such as firearms that would not be allowed. There are also restricted items with limits on the amount you can bring such as alcohol and tobacco. The rules are different depending on where you are travelling from. You can find out more from the UK Government’s advice on bringing in goods. https://www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods .

Your airline is always a good source of information in this regard. 

What about medicine?  

Personal medicine can be brought but you do need to declare it to UK Customs. Medicine should be carried in a labelled container as provided by your pharmacist and a letter from your doctor confirming the need for medication is a good idea. 

There might be restrictions on any medicine you bring, so before you travel, seek advice about the requirements from HM Customs and Exercise. https://www.gov.uk/travellingcontrolled-drugs

Currency in Scotland

Money in scotland .

Scotland’s official currency is the pound sterling, known as the pound (£, GBP) like in the rest of the United Kingdom. 

Banknotes and coins 

The most common banknotes are £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100. It is also possible to find £1 notes, although these are extremely rare. The coins in circulation are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p and £1 and £2. 

In Scotland you use both Sterling banknotes issued both by the Bank of England and Scottish banknotes. Scottish banknotes will always be accepted in Scotland, but in some parts of the UK they are not as easily accepted, so we recommend to use your Scottish banknotes as much as possible while in Scotland and reserve the Bank of England pounds if you’re planning to visit the rest of Britain. 

It is well advisable to change some currency in your home country where you can go to your local bank and get good exchange rates, well in advance of your visit.

Getting cash when travelling is as easy as going to your local ATM (automated teller machine), these machines are plentiful in most cities and work with most banks. Check your withdrawal limits with your bank before you leave your country and make sure that you remember your PIN. 

You should also be aware of the fees that might be levied for cash withdrawals. Another safe way to carry money is payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, travel cards etc. 

You should be able to pay at most restaurants and shops with your card. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Scotland.. American Express and Diners Club are accepted by most major hotels, but are less commonly accepted elsewhere. 

Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted. You’ll probably have to change the checks at a bank and pay a fee for the privilege, so this is not an option that we would recommend. 

Travel Insurance is a necessity for any overseas trip and the amount you require is related to the amount of risk that you are willing to take on. What Does Travel Insurance cover and what are the costs? 

A packaged policy solution could cost from 4-8% of your trip cost and would include coverage for delays or cancellation of trips, medical costs when on your trip, baggage claims etc. You could also add additional coverage like pandemic coverage, medical evacuations and more. The more options you add, the higher the cost of your policy. 

There is good news though, a lot of you might already have some coverage. If you are using a credit card for travel or have homeowners or renters insurance, travel insurance might be already included. 

Talk to your insurance company and credit card provider to find out what might already be covered. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for a vacation package.

If you ever purchase a vacation package or use a tour operator then you should definitely make sure that you have travel insurance. An unexpected closure of any travel company leaves many travelers high and dry. 

Where to buy Travel Insurance? 

Trip operators, airlines, cruise companies, even travel agents, offer travel insurance plans, however most of these policies have a mark-up, or the coverage isn’t as good as a third-party insurer. Compare policies before purchasing any insurance and make sure that you have read the contract including the fine print. 

When to buy Travel Insurance? 

You can buy travel insurance any time before you depart on your trip but it is best to buy travel insurance just after securing the flights, accommodation or other details of your trip. The reason being that if something happens to the airline or tour company making them go out of business most travel insurance policies cover pre-existing conditions.

Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain,[mainland Scotland has a 96-mile (154 km) border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, the North Sea to the northeast and the Irish Sea to the south. 

The country also contains more than 790 islands, principally in the archipelagos of the Hebrides and the Northern Isles. Most of the population, including the capital Edinburgh , is concentrated in the Central Belt – the plain between the Scottish Highlands and the Southern Uplands – in the Scottish Lowlands. Scotland is divided into 32 administrative subdivisions or local authorities, known as council areas. 

Glasgow City is the largest council area in terms of population, with Highland being the largest in terms of area. Limited self-governing power, covering matters such as education, social services and roads and transportation, is devolved from the Scottish Government to each subdivision. Scotland is the second largest country in the United Kingdom, and accounted for 8.3% of the population in 2012. 

• The official animal of Scotland is the Unicorn.

 • Scottish men wear kilts . The kilt is the traditional dress of Gaelic men and boys in the Scottish Highlands.

 • The bagpipe is Scotland’s national instrument. First traces of the bagpipe can be detected back to around 1400. 

• Scotland has approximately 790 islands, more than 600 are uninhabited. 

• Scotland is home to the oldest tree in Europe. It is a twisted yew, and it has been around for 3,000 years. 

• Scotland is home to the tallest waterfall in Britain, named Eas a’ Chual Aluinn . It is 658 feet, which is 3 times the height of Niagara Falls. 

• There are over 600 square miles of freshwater lakes or lochs in Scotland.

• The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the largest performing arts festivals in the world. The festival attracts over 400,000 people annually.

 • Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade. 

• St. Andrew’s Links is known as the “home of golf.” Golf was invented by the Scots.

• Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, not the capital, Edinburgh . 

• Charles Macintosh, who was born in Glasgow invented the raincoat, 

• You can take the shortest commercial flight in the world in Scotland. 

• The journey from Westray to Papa Westray in Orkney takes just 47 seconds. 

• The first-ever international association football game was played between Scotland and England in 1872 and was played at the West of Scotland Cricket ground in Partick. The match was watched by 4,000 spectators and ended as a 0–0 draw. 

• The Encyclopedia Britannica originated in Scotland. 

• It can be said that the Scots invented the modern world. Scotsman Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in February 1876 whereas, Scottish engineer John Logie Baird created the world’s first TV picture on October 2, 1925. 

• The world’s first colour photograph was taken in Scotland. The picture in question is a Tartan Ribbon. 

• There are as many people with Scottish heritage living in the US as there are in Scotland.

Scottish customs 

Tartan and Kilts

Scottish kilts are known as ‘The National Dress of Scotland’ and have deep cultural and historical roots. Kilts are a sacred symbol of patriotism and honour for a true Scotsman. Kilts are made of tartan, worn around the waist and accompanied by a sporran, which is a small bag worn over the kilt, a kilt pin which holds the two pieces of tartan together at the front, and a sgian dubh, a small dagger which sits in the sock. 

The kilt originated in the 16th century and the first kilts were thick, woollen full-length garments whose upper halves could be worn over the head as a hood, or as a cloak draped over the shoulder. It wasn’t until the late 17th or early 18th century that the knee-length kilt was developed and was worn throughout the Highlands and northern Lowlands.

The unique design of the kilt allowed for freedom of movement which is essential in the Highlands of Scotland where the weather can become very damp. Not only did the wool protect against the rain and skin but it could easily be removed and used as a blanket at night. 

When the Highland regiments of the British Army adopted the design it skyrocketed in popularity and over the centuries has developed to include pleats and brightly coloured tartan patterns, unique to the clan to which the wearer belongs. 

During the 19th century, Scottish kilts often used family tartan and were worn as a form of ceremonial dress at occasions such as weddings, sporting events and the Highland Games. Nowadays, the kilt is recognised the world over and is worn by many for both formal and informal occasions. 

To learn more about tartan and kilts 

Visit: 

• The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre in Inverness,  

• The Tartan Weaving Mill in Edinburgh  

• The Lochcarron Visitor Centre in Selkirk

Bagpipes 

There is no mistaking the iconic sound of traditional Scottish music , and of course, Scotland’s national instrument, the bagpipe when on a visit to Scotland. Although the instrument has its origins in the Middle East, it has travelled and evolved in Europe, and the Scottish people have long-since made the Great Highland Bagpipe an outstanding part of their culture. 

It is an unmistaken part of Scotland’s musical tradition. The unique, constant sound of the bag, usually made out of sheepskin, creates and stirs exhilarating emotions and can be heard from far away. More information and history: National Piping Centre in Glasgow. 

Hogmanay 

Hogmanay is an important part of the Scottish calendar being part of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Many of the old Hogmanay traditions have been carried through the generations and remain part of the celebrations today and are celebrated all over Scotland. 

The strike of midnight: As in many parts of the world, the main event of New Year is when the clock strikes midnight and thus the main custom of Hogmanay is partying with friends and family as soon as the clock strikes midnight; bells are rung, many towns and villages have street parties and fireworks are set off. 

Immediately after midnight, it is traditional for everyone to stand in a circle, cross over their arms and hold hands with people on either side singing Robert Burns’

  ‘Auld Lang Syne’.

“Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? 

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and auld lang syne 

For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne, 

We’ll take a cup o kindness yet, for auld lang syne.” 

First footing 

It is tradition and a bit of superstition that after midnight, to ensure good luck for a household, the ‘first foot’ over the threshold should be a dark male, taking with him symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and a wee dram of whisky. 

Gifts like these will ensure that the household will be safe, warm and have enough food for the year. People take his custom very seriously and blondes and redheads are considered to be bad luck. The dark-haired male bit is believed to be a throwback to the Viking days, when a big blonde stranger arriving on your door step with a big axe meant big trouble, and probably not a very happy New Year! 

Redding the house 

It was considered bad luck to go into the New Year with a dirty house and Redding the House is a New Year’s Eve spring clean. In particular all fireplaces needed to be cleaned. 

Burning the Clavie 

EACH YEAR ON JANUARY 11TH in the small village of Burghead on the coast of Scotland an ancient pagan ceremony, known as The Burning of the Clavie, roars through the streets to celebrate the date of a New Year’s Day that was erased by the Gregorian calendar. The tradition of fire festivals dates back to ancient pagan rituals that were practiced in many places across Scotland. 

While The Burning of the Clavie has its roots in these rituals, it celebrates a much more recent occurrence. A law was passed that outlawed the practice, calling it “superstitious, idolatrous and sinfule, an abominable heathenish practice,” but some villages still held the festival anyway. Whilst the rest of the UK rioted and demanded back their 11 days, the town of Burghead decided to celebrate New Year’s on both the 1st and the 11th of January, getting the best of both worlds. 

The Clavie is a half-barrel filled with wood shavings and tar, nailed onto a carrying post with, importantly, the same huge nail each year. This barrel is then lit and carried on the shoulders of a local through the village, a prized position handed down through the family, followed by a large crowd stopping at the houses of residents to present them with a smouldering ember from the barrel to bring the household good luck for the year ahead. 

The unique, constant sound of the bag, usually made out of sheepskin, creates and stirs exhilarating emotions and can be heard from far away. 

More information and history: National Piping Centre in Glasgow.   

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a unique and memorable celebration of music, dance and military pageantry which is held against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle , 

The Tattoo dates back to 1950 and has become a showcase of military talent of the British forces and their counterparts from around the world, attracting audiences of about 220,000 at the event and around 100 million on television.

Loch Ness monster 

The legend of the Loch Ness monster has been bringing people to the dark expanse of Loch Ness in the Highlands for centuries. There are over 1,000 documented eye witness accounts dating back to AD 565, and with a wealth of unexplained evidence, the famous mystery of Nessie lives on to this day. 

Scientists believe the monster to be a myth but really what do they know? This enormous creature is said to have a long, thin body, with one or more humps protruding from the water, and a snake-like head. 

She is shy though, so you need to be quick to snap a picture before she swiftly disappears into the depths of the loch.

Highland Games 

One of Scotland’s greatest sporting traditions is the Highland Games. Between May and September, watch this quintessentially Scottish custom across the country at over 80 different events and see competitors put their muscles to the test wearing their national dress, the Scottish kilt. 

Scotland’s Highland games are usually one-day events taking place in outdoor spaces across the country. Built around traditional Highland sports such as the caber toss , tug o’ war and the hammer throw, a Highland games event also includes Highland dancing and music, and lots of family fun such as food and craft stalls and games. 

Many events will also involve livestock events , parades and even best-dressed pet competitions. Some Highland games continue into the night with more music gigs, ceilidhs and discos. 

Amongst the games there are masses of bands, with pipers and drummers marching in unison, solo piping competitions and Highland dancers giving dazzling displays including the famous Highland fling.

Highland Fling 

The Highland Fling is a solo Highland dance that gained popularity in the early 19th century. The word ‘Fling’ means literally a movement in dancing. In John Jamieson’s Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language, 1808, the Highland Fling was defined as ‘one species of movement’ in dancing, not as one particular movement. 

This dance is now performed at dance competitions and events around the world. One goal of dancers today is to stay in the same spot throughout the dance. The Highland Fling is danced at almost all competition levels, from primary to premier. 

It is also performed for Highland and theory examinations. Dancers wear the standard kilt outfit to perform this dance.

Planning your trip to Scotland

The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 6°C-15°C, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms . 

The summer months (June through August) are the warmest of the year, with extensive daylight hours in July and August the further north you go. Summer is a very busy time but the crowds begin to disperse from the last two weeks in October. Autumn is a great time to see the spectacular seasonal foliage. 

Parts of Scotland have snow conditions in winter and this can make travel a bit more tricky but the winter scenery and atmosphere with roaring log fires is something to experience. 

• January : Pack for average highs of 5°C (41° F) and lows of 1°C (34°F). January averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 24 days of rain. 

• February: Pack for average highs of 6°C (43°F) and lows of 1°C (34°F). February averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain. 

• March : Pack for average highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). March averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 22 days of rain.

• April: Pack for average highs of 11°C (52°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). April averages 44 mm (1.57 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 22 days of rain. 

• May: Pack for average highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). May averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain. 

• June : Pack for average highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). June averages 60 mm (2.36 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain. 

• July: Pack for average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). July averages 70mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain.

 • August: Pack for average highs of 19°C (66° F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). August averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain. 

• September: Pack for average highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). September averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 19 days of rain. 

• October: Pack for average highs of 13°C (55°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). October averages 80 mm (3.15 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 23 days of rain. 

• November: Pack for average highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). November averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain. 

• December: Pack for average highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). December averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain. 

Layers are a good idea. In Scotland the weather could change every five minutes, so it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality. The best way to be prepared for all types of weather conditions is to layer. 

Pack an outer, waterproof shell jacket, a thick and warm inner layer, and a thinner inner layer. There Will Be Rain and Wind. 

In Scotland you know that at some stage, you will get wet. We suggest a pair of high-quality gumboots/rubber rain boots .

It is no coincidence that a Glasgow man invented the raincoat, so make sure you have one. When you’re packing for Scotland and looking at temperatures, you might be tricked into thinking Scotland has a temperate climate in the winter. Temperatures of 5 or 6˚C / 41 to 43˚F aren’t that uncommon through the winter. Temperature wise, you’re right that Scotland is relatively temperate. 

However, when you factor in the wind, everything feels that much colder. Plan to include wind-proof and wind-blocking items in your Scotland packing list.

Scotland Packing List

Travel coat and comfortable shoes.

What kind of coat you pack for Scotland depends on two things: when you plan to visit Scotland (the season), and what you plan on doing while you’re there.

If you’re planning a trip where you’ll spend most of your time in cities and towns, you’ll probably care a bit more about finding a travel coat that nails that difficult balance between stylish and functional . If you’re planning to be out of the cities more, exploring Scotland’s boundless nature and beautiful islands, style may take a backseat to function. 

You will need rubber boots, walking shoes and a pair of shoes should you wish to dress up in the evening.

What to Pack for Scotland in Winter

• Rain Jacket 

• Thin Base Layer – A relatively warm long sleeve shirt would work. 

• Socks – Make sure you have good wool socks 

• Insulated Rain Boots – 

• Walking Shoes 

• Hiking/rain pants 

• A thick scarf, gloves, and hat.  

• A couple of sweaters  

• A few shirts 

• Jeans , and warm leggings for the ladies. 

• Long underwear – This is really only necessary if you plan to do some outdoor activities, like hiking. If you’re mostly in the cities, skip this to save space. 

• Toiletries 

Packing List for Scotland in Summer

• Rain Jacket – Yes! 

• Thin Base Layer – Cotton T-shirts, or long sleeve shirts 

• Socks 

• Rain Boots 

• A light sweater or two. 

• Jeans , and leggings for the ladies. 

All Season Scotland Packing List 

Now that we’ve hopefully helped you to figure out what to wear in Scotland, it’s worth considering what else you may need. 

• An electrical adaptor (and possibly, converter). You will need an electrical adapter for the 230v three pronged outlets used in the UK.This will be the same for England, Ireland, and Northern Ireland, but different to the rest of Europe. 

• A travel umbrella. 

• Camera – be prepared to take lots of photos. 

• A travel hair dryer

Scotland’s biggest city has many excellent museums, art galleries, and festivals that attract tourists year-round. 

Situated on the River Clyde on Scotland’s west coast, the city of Glasgow has, in the last few decades, reimagined itself as a major European cultural center. 

On foot Glasgow is a joy to explore thanks to its many lovely parks and pedestrian-friendly streets, especially if you also take in Glasgow cathedral and the famous Glasgow School of Art . 

Be sure to explore the Riverside Museum, this superb modern facility focuses on the history of transportation in the city through its large collections of vintage steam engines, trams, buses, carriages, cars, and seafaring vessels. There’s even an authentic reproduction of 1930s shops and homes.

Glasgow has the reputation as the cultural capital of Scotland and any visitor should not miss a play at the King’s Theatre, partake in a little opera at the home of the Scottish Opera in the Theatre Royal, or a classical concert at the Royal Scottish Orchestra at the Concert Hall. 

Also visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , notable for its displays of local art, and the wonderful Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style Gallery with its diverse collection that includes works by Van Gogh and Salvador Dali. 

Scottish Ballet is the national ballet company of Scotland and one of the five leading ballet companies of the United Kingdom, alongside the Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Northern Ballet. 

Founded in 1969,the company is based in Glasgow, the resident ballet company at the Glasgow Theatre Royal and from 2009 in their purpose-built ballet centre in Tramway Arts Centre, Glasgow. 

Scottish Highlands 

The Highlands have managed to capture the imagination of not only travellers but also those watching movies and TV shows, the most well known of these would be the popular Outlander series. 

The Highlands is an area of outstanding natural beauty stretching from Inverness in the east to John O’Groats in the north.

Your trip to the Highlands should start in Inverness and Loch Ness where you might spot the famous monster. 

The nearby ruins of Urquhart Castle should also not be missed. Loch Ness is part if GlenMore and the Caledonian Canal, a feat of modern engineering. 

The coastal town of Dornoch should not be missed and Aviemore is a popular winter ski destination. In warmer weather, the region is popular for the hiking and biking adventures available in the Cairngorms National Park. 

This sparsely populated area is also great for other outdoor experiences, including sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, and fishing. A road trip along the North Coast 500 , a coastal route popular with tourists is a great idea.

St. Andrews

 Any golf lover knows that St. Andrews is the home of golf and an essential pilgrimage for the lover of the game.. 

Golfers from around the globe make the pilgrimage to St. Andrews’ seven classic links courses, drawn by the prestige of playing the world’s oldest golf course.

The nearby British Golf Museum is a modern facility and something of a shrine to the greats who’ve played the St. Andrews’ courses, as well as detailing the history of the sport over the centuries. 

St. Andrews is not only the home of golf but also a famous university town. The old buildings associated with the University of St. Andrews are worth exploring. The ruins of St. Andrews Castle and the town’s old cathedral are also worth exploring.

Loch Ness and Inverness 

There are so many things to enjoy in Inverness and surely you have heard of the Loch Ness Monster. Exploring Inverness should start at the grounds of Inverness Castle and you can then follow the river Ness towards Ness Islands. 

There are beautiful park areas to enjoy. Attractions in Inverness include St, Andrew’s Cathedral as well as the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery . Other sights include the Botanic Gardens, finishing up at Victorian Market for a spot of shopping. Loch Ness remains shrouded in myth and legend, 

No credible evidence has ever been found regarding the Loch Ness monster but hope for a sighting remains.

But even without a monster sighting, you won’t be disappointed. Thanks to its starring role in movies and on TV – most recently in the hit series, Outlander – places like Urquhart Castle are enough to make the journey to this Highland attraction worthwhile. Built in the 1100s, the castle now lies in ruins after being devastated by fire some 500 years ago. 

Loch Lomond 

Easy to get to from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, Loch Lomond is a great base from which to explore Scotland, Loch Lomond is the largest body of freshwater in the UK and the scenery is breathtaking . Boat tours are very popular and so is visiting the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre or SEA LIFE Aquarium. 

Stirling 

One of the best places to explore the Scottish countryside as it is situated almost half way between Glasgow and Edinburgh. 

Stirling Castle is famous for once being a royal palace where Mary Queen of Scots spent her childhood here. The Bannockburn Heritage centre commemorates the historic Battle of Bannockburn. It was here that Scottish king Robert the Bruce defeated the English army. 

You can also visit the nearby Wallace monument and learn a bit more about the legendary William Wallace.

A port city on the North Sea, Aberdeen should definitely be on your list. It is a great city to explore on foot, has fantastic architecture as well as many delightful parks and gardens. 

St. Machar’s Cathedral is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture construction in Scotland. It was built in the 1300’s and well worth a visit. Many of the old homes and merchant buildings made from the unique local granite that seems to sparkle in sunlight, gives Aberdeen its affectionate Silver City nickname. 

Aberdeen is also called “The Flower of Scotland.” because of all the lovely green spaces in the city, most notably the David Welch Winter Gardens at Duthie Park. Here, you can wander one of the biggest indoor gardens in all of Europe, Aberdeen also has more than two miles of beaches worth exploring. 

Isle of Arran 

The island is a tourist hotspot with many great restaurants, hotels and resorts. Located just off the mainland from Glasgow and reached via a scenic one-hour ferry ride, this 429-square-kilometer island is therefore perfect either for a day trip from Glasgow, a weekend break, or an extended vacation. 

You can tour the island by car, bike or use local bus services. There are many things to explore including historic castles, sand beaches and fishing villages. 

You can also climb the local 873-meter Goat Fell Mountain. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with magnificent views over Arran and the Firth of Clyde toward Glasgow, as well as northward toward Mull of Kintyre . Brodick Castle is another popular tourist attraction. 

Also spend time exploring Brodick Castle, a popular tourist attraction for its displays of period furniture and its grounds, which house an authentic iron age dwelling. There are also plenty of great restaurants on the island, as well as good hotels and resorts.

If you are looking to explore Ben Nevis , Scotland’s highest mountain and the unspoiled highlands then Fort William is the perfect starting point. 

Fort William is best known for the Glenfinnan Viaduct , often recognized from numerous Harry Potter movies (among other films) as the route the Hogwart Express took when whisking young wizards to school. Why not join one of the steam excursions?

Isle of Skye 

Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit . It is famous for its scenery and landscapes that will take your breath away. 

The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. The capital is Portree. The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: Dinosaur Fossils, Clan Warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ and the Jacobite Rebellion. 

Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan Castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit. Wildlife is plentiful on The Isle of Skye with the White Tailed Sea Eagle at the top of bird watchers lists. You can also see otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer amongst other things,

Skye is a world class destination for walkers and climbers. ‘The Cuillin Range’ and ‘The Trotternish Ridge’ offer challenging climbs and interesting scrambles. Man-made attractions include the attractive Armadale Castle. 

Located near the ferry port of Mallaig, this early 19th-century edifice is set in the heart of a huge country estate and features excellent displays and artifacts related to one of the most powerful of Scotland’s historic clans, the Donalds. 

Also worth a visit is Dunvegan Castle . Once the seat of the MacLeod clan, it’s located in the village of the same name and is a great place to embark on a boat tour or fishing excursion.

The Speyside Region – An introduction to Scottish Whisky

Over half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries can be found in Speyside , the northeast corner of the Scottish highlands. The lush, fertile valley of the River Spey is undoubtedly the heart of single malt whisky distilling in Scotland. 

In order for it to be classed as Scotch Whisky there are certain requirements. That’s why Speyside is known as a ‘protected region’ for Scotch Whisky distilling under UK Government legislation. King George IV was a fan of Scotch Whisky from Speyside and the royal association continued with Queen Victoria who gave a standing order that all royal coaches should carry a bottle of whisky under the coachman’s seat in case of an ‘emergency.’ 

For such a small sub-region of the Scottish Highlands, Speyside offers a wide range of stunning whiskies. The location is well suited for it attracting tourists from across the world to see for themselves where their favourite whiskies are made. 

William Grant & Sons is the most recognised brand yet they not only produce Scotch Whisky but also a few more brands we think you’ll know and love. The abundance and quality of its water is the principal reason why whisky distilleries have flocked to the Speyside region. 

The Speyside distilleries are often sorted by specifying the river they are near (Spey, Bogie, Deveron, Findhorn, etc.), or by the whisky-producing district where they are located: Bogie, Livet, Deveron, Dufftown, Fiddich, Findhorn Valley, Inverness, Isla, Lossie, Rothes, and Strathisla. A trip to Scotland would be incomplete without a visit to the Speyside. 

Getting to Scotland

Scotland is serviced by several international airports with connections to most major destinations around the world. Direct flights from North America will give you a choice:

 • If you are flying to Scotland from North America you will have a choice between Edinburgh airport and Glasgow airport , but you could first fly to London, Manchester or Dublin and purchase a connecting flight to Scotland. 

• If you are flying from the East coast of America expect a flight time between six to seven hours, from the west coast of America expect a flying time of nine to eleven hours flying time. 

From Asia or New Zealand / Australia the best is to get a connecting flight in the Middle East and connect to London, Glasgow or Edinburgh, Regular services run out of major business hubs like London and Frankfurt. 

With London only an hour away and Frankfurt only 90 minutes, Flying is also a great option if you are short on time, or heading to islands such as the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland .

Getting to Scotland by Train from London 

The cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are both served by frequent direct train services from London and other cities in England. Virgin Trains East Coast depart from London King’s Cross station and run up the east coast via Peterborough, York and Newcastle to Edinburgh. 

The travel time from London varies from 4.5 to 7 hours. There are a number of other services to various cities in Scotland. More information: https://www.scotrail.co.uk/

Getting around in Scotland 

Driving .

Renting a car and driving is a great way to see Scotland and the country has an extensive road network that makes it easy to get around. 

Please be aware that in Scotland, as in the rest of the UK, driving is on the left side of the road.

Train 

Scotland is home to some of the most scenic railway lines in the world and a train journey can be a great experience. The country is home to an extensive and well-developed rail network that not only serves cross-country links throughout Scotland but also regular connections to the rest of the UK as well. Most trains are also equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you stay connected when travelling, 

More information: https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ 

Bus and Coach 

Scotland has an extensive network of coach and bus routes all over the country and it is a great way to travel around. More information: https://www.transport.gov.scot/ Ferry 

There really is nothing quite like seeing your destination on the horizon, and approaching the spectacular island or tucked-away peninsula by ferry. 

Both passenger and car ferries operate in Scotland, and larger islands are often served by a number of routes.

What is the speed limit in Scotland? 

Speed limits are often signposted – look out for a circular sign, with a red border and number (in miles per hour). If there’s no signpost, national speed limits apply. 

These are: 

Motorways: • 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars. • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers. 

Dual Carriageways: • 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars. • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.

 Built-up areas: • 30 mph (48 km/h) • Be aware though, it’s quite common around residential areas and particularly near schools, for a clearly signposted 20 mph (32 km/h) maximum speed limit. 

Outside built-up areas: • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars • 50 mph (80 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers. 

What licence do I need to drive in Scotland? If you’re coming from a European Union country – as long as you have a valid licence, you can drive any type of vehicle listed on your license in Scotland.

 If you’re coming from outside the EU – as long as you have a valid licence from your own country, you can drive any small vehicle (eg car or motorcycle) in the UK for up to 12 months.

Scotland has numerous options for visitors with great quality hotels, resorts, bed and breakfast as well as self catering accommodation and camping options, 

What is the best area to stay in Scotland?  

• Edinburgh – best for short breaks. … 

• Loch Lomond – best for couples. … 

• Ullapool – best for explorers. … 

• Aberdeen – best for night owls. … 

• Dornoch – best for golfers. … 

• Inverness – best for history buffs. … 

• Cowal Peninsula – best for wildlife watching. … 

• Rannoch Moor – best for walkers. 

All major booking sites are operational in Scotland and the best option is to book online, We suggest Tripadvisor as a preferred option. 

Scotland has as well developed food culture more than just a night out, Scottish food and drink is the very lifeblood of Scotland’s culture and economy. 

With rolling, rural hillsides, clear coastal waters and lush, fertile lands, Scotland produces some of the best, and most sought after, natural produce in the world. 

From mouth-watering Aberdeen Angus steaks, to world-renowned seafood such as wild trout, salmon, oysters and langoustines, not to mention our water of life – whisky – the ‘Made in Scotland’ stamp has become synonymous with taste and quality. 

PRODUCE 

Traditional food & drink .

Hand-dived scallops, Aberdeen Angus beef, Ayrshire potatoes and the soft fruits of Fife are just some of the ingredients that Scottish chefs have to work with. Scotland has an abundance of local butchers and fishmongers, as well as farm shops, food festivals and farmers markets all of which are great places to go to pick up tasty treats so you can cook up your own dishes. 

The national dish of Scotland is haggis , a savoury meat pudding, and it’s traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes, turnips (known as ‘neeps’) and a whisky sauce. 

The national drink of Scotland is whisky which is produced in more than 100 distilleries. The Scottish love then sweets and nothing can be more traditional than shortbread or a Scottish tablet . Savoury dishes include Scotch broth and black pudding.

Places to eat 

There are plenty of options when it comes to eating out in Scotland. All manner of restaurants, traditional pubs, cosy cafés, elegant tearooms and down-to-earth takeaways can be found across the country. 

From Michelin-star restaurants to a foodie walking tour in Edinburgh or Glasgow or fresh seafood dishes in Scotland’s seaside towns, Scotland has it all. 

Interesting Food and Drink Facts 

• 40 bottles of Scotch Whisky are shipped overseas each second (yes, that’s right!) 

• More Scotch Whisky is sold in one month in France than cognac in a year 

• Over two thirds of the world’s langoustines are sourced in Scotland 

• Scottish Salmon was the first foreign product to gain France’s prestigious ‘Label Rouge’ quality mark 

• Scottish lobsters are on the menu in over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo alone

Edinburgh Travel Guide 

The ultimate guide for your visit to edinburgh.

About Edinburgh 

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas. Edinburgh is Scotland’s second-most populous city and the seventh-most populous city in the United Kingdom. 

Recognised as the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh is the seat of the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the highest courts in Scotland. The city’s Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. The city has long been a centre of education, particularly in the fields of medicine, Scots law, literature, philosophy, the sciences and engineering. 

It is the second-largest financial centre in the United Kingdom, and the city’s historical and cultural attractions have made it the UK’s second-most visited tourist destination attracting 4.9 million visits, including 2.4 million from overseas in 2018. 

Edinburgh’s official population estimates are 488,050 (mid-2016) for the Edinburgh locality,518,500 (mid-2019) for the City of Edinburgh council area, and 1,339,380 (2014) for the wider city region – Wikipedia

In this guide we will explore some of the best things that Edinburgh has to offer for the tourist.. 

When is the best time to go to Edinburgh?

SUMMER The best time to visit Edinburgh is the summer months, June through August when the weather is best. This is also the city’s busiest time for tourism, especially in August when festivals fill up the calendar.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

SUMMER EVENTS 

• Edinburgh International Science Festival 

• Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival 

• Edinburgh Art Festival 

• Edinburgh Festival Fringe 

• Edinburgh International Festival 

• Edinburgh International Book Festival 

• Edinburgh International Film Festival

 • Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August) 

WINTER 

In winter the crowds are less and accommodation is less expensive except during the city’s New Year’s celebration, 

Hogmanay. 

WINTER EVENTS 

• Edinburgh Christmas Market 

• Cocktails at Twenty Twenty 

• Waverley Festival Village The Dome Cocktails (George Street) 

• Christmas Lights Switch On 

• Ice Skating at George Street 

• Edinburgh Botanical Gardens Light Trail 

• Edinburgh Castle at Christmas 

• Edinburgh Castle at Christmas. 

• Hogmanay 

• Burns Night 

 SPRING / AUTUMN I

In Spring and early Autumn the weather is also fairly mild and you can still find some good hotel and travel deals. If you are in Edinburgh during autumn be sure to check out the International Storytelling Festival which is an autumnal celebration of storytelling – both traditional and contemporary. 

Autumn also means Bonfire Night on the 5th November, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, this is marked with fiery celebrations as hosted by Edinburgh Meadowbank Sports Centre. Spring is a great time to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. It is also a good time to visit with children as the Edinburgh Science Festival and Edinburgh Children’s Festival are on.

Things to know 

Language; The main language is English 

Electricity: The voltage in Britain is 220/240 AC, 50 Hz. Electrical plugs have three rectangular pins and take fuses of 3, 5 and 13 amps. Visitors from abroad will need an adaptor for appliances that have been brought from home, such as laptops, hairdryers and phone chargers. 

Most hotels will have twopronged European-style sockets for shavers only. 

Currency: The official currency of Scotland is the British Pound so you will need to exchange currency before your trip or at a local currency exchange. 

Most international bank cards will work everywhere in Edinburgh 

Travel Insurance. Make sure that you have the relevant travel insurance before travelling, check with your local travel agent what you will need. 

Note: Pack an umbrella! 

Getting to Edinburgh

Most international visitors will arrive in Edinburgh via Aeroplane 

ARRIVALS FROM AUSTRALIA 

Several Australian cities offer connecting flights to Edinburgh. One of the most popular airlines from Sydney (Sydney Kingsford Smith) to Edinburgh is British Airways. 

Other airlines include Etihad Airways, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Delta Airlines, Virgin Australia and American Airlines. 

ARRIVALS FROM NORTH AMERICA 

Visitors from the United States will find direct flights to Edinburgh from the following North American cities: New York – Delta Airlines provides direct flights between Edinburgh and New York JFK. United Airlines and Air Canada both offer direct flights from Edinburgh to Newark Airport Chicago – United Airlines provides direct flights between Edinburgh and Chicago O’Hare. Toronto (Toronto Pearson International Airport) to Edinburgh with Air Canada rouge. 

EUROPE 

There is a large range of low-cost airlines that fly from numerous destinations including Spain, France, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Belgium and many more countries. The most popular low-cost carriers include Easyjet, Jet2, Ryanair, FlyBe and Norwegian. 

TRAVELLING WITHIN BRITAIN

 A range of British cities offer direct flights to Edinburgh’s main airport including British Airways, EasyJet, Flybe and Ryanair. Travellers should search online booking platforms for the best airline deals. 

How to get around in Edinburgh 

Edinburgh is a compact city which is easy to find your way around although we would advise against driving yourself. 

Here are the best options for getting around Edinburgh: 

Walking or cycling .

Edinburgh is a fantastic city to discover on foot. You can cover most of the city with a 20 to 30 minute walk, The most important item to remember when walking is good umbrella as the weather can change very quickly, Edinburgh has good cycle routes and most major roads have marked bike lanes and traffic lights often have stopping boxes to allow cyclists to stop and start more safely. 

Edinburgh has extensive bus routes covering the entire city and its outskirts, Most festival venues are either on or nearby at least one main bus route, and the Night Bus services will help you get to your accommodation even in the wee small hours. Make sure that you have the right change when buying a ticket on the bus as buses don’t give change.

Edinburgh’s tram runs from Edinburgh Airport to its terminus at York Place in the east end of the city centre. There are regular stops on the line, The tram offers regular stops on its route including on Princes Street and at Haymarket Train Station in the West End. Tickets are available at ticket vending machines on all tram platforms as well as via the Transport for Edinburgh mobile app. 

Black cabs and other taxi services are available throughout the city. The traditional taxi (usually black, but not always) can be picked up at one of the ranks or flagged down in the street. Ride services like UBER are also available in Edinburgh. 

By Car 

If travelling in your own car, you’ll need to be aware of parking restrictions throughout the city. There are some pay and display car parks, as well as a number of short-term on-street ticketed parking areas.

Places to stay 

There are a huge variety of accommodation options in Edinburgh. Hotels of all varieties and quality, Bed and Breakfast as well as a range of self catering apartments. Your best option is to start planning well in advance via a good booking site such as Tripadvisor 

Whether you base yourself in the heart of the city, or go for a pad outside the centre, Edinburgh offers great transport links that will make it easy for you to get around the city or visit further afield.

Where to eat 

Scotland has a great food culture and a variety of unique dishes only made in Scotland. 

Some of its cooking is influenced by foreign cuisine, especially French cuisine. 

Scottish breakfast 

What constitutes a Full Scottish Breakfast is a little arguable. 

There is a standard list of items you can expect to find when you order your Scottish breakfast. 

• Eggs 

• Tattie Scones 

• Lorne/Square Sausage 

• Bacon 

• Link Sausage 

• Sliced Haggis 

• Toast 

• Grilled/Fried tomatoes 

• Baked Beans 

• Black Pudding 

• Mushrooms 

• Polony 

• Fried Slice 

• Fruit Pudding 

Definitely something you should try before starting your day exploring Edinburgh!

Traditional Scottish food you should try

Haggis .

Haggis is probably the most famous Scottish dish and the national dish of Scotland, Haggis is a kind of savoury pudding made of sheep’s heart and lungs mixed with onions and oatmeal. This is spices and then encased in the sheep’s stomach and cooked for several hours.

Neeps and Tatties 

Tatties are mashed potato and neeps are diced or mashed swede. This is normally served with Haggis. 

Haddock and Kippers

Both of these could be smoked or Haddock could be battered as in Fish and Chips. 

Scotch Broth

This meaty vegetable soup is perfect for a cold night in winter. Ingredients are lamb, carrots and swedes. 

Partan bree 

A crab based seafood soup.

Grouse 

This bird is very similar to partridge Desserts Shortbread: A buttery biscuit baked at a low temperature. 

Dundee Cake:

A rich flavoured fruit cake. Cranachan: A traditional Scottish dessert made from whipped cream, whisky and raspberries. 

When to have lunch and dinner in Edinburgh?

 In Edinburgh, the opening times of restaurants and fast-food places are very similar to other North European countries. 

Lunch is normally served between 12 noon and 2 pm and dinner begins at 6 pm and finishes at 8:30 – 9 pm. It can prove difficult to find a restaurant with an open kitchen after 9 pm. 

Best areas to eat in Edinburgh 

The most interesting areas to find restaurants or places to eat would be Princess Street and the Royal Mile as well as Rose Street.

Things to see and Do 

Edinburgh castle.

At One O’Clock every day, except Sundays you can set your watch when you hear the firing of the Gun from Edinburgh Castle 

Edinburgh Castle was recently voted the top UK Heritage attraction in the British Travel Awards and should be right at the top of your list of places to visit in Edinburgh, Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, Edinburgh Castle houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland, which are the oldest crown jewels in the UK, and The Stone of Destiny; an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy. For more information or to buy online tickets: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/ 

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park 

Holyrood Park is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city. It is a 640 acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace and is open all year round, 

Within the park you can visit St Anthony’s Chapel – a 15th century medieval chapel, Salisbury Crags – a series of 150 foot cliff faces dominating Edinburgh’s skyline as well as Duddingston Loch – a freshwater loch rich in birdlife. 

The highlight of your visit would be Arthur’s Seat , an ancient volcano, and sits 251m above sea level giving an excellent view of the city;. This is one of four hill forts dating from around 2000 years ago. With its diverse range of flora and geology it is also a site of Special Scientific Interest. It is also the site of a large and well preserved fort. Visit the official website for more details: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-aplace/places/holyrood-park/

Scott Monument 

Standing proudly in Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is one of the most iconic Edinburgh landmarks, a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, it is one of the largest monuments to a writer anywhere in the world. The tower is 200 feet 6 inches (61.11 m) high and has viewing platforms reached by a series of spiral staircases giving panoramic views of central Edinburgh and its surroundings. 

The highest platform is reached by a total of 287 steps. It is built from Binny sandstone quarried near Ecclesmachan in West Lothian. It is placed on axis with South St. David Street, the main street leading off St. Andrew Square to Princes Street, and is a focal point within that vista, its scale being large enough to screen the Old Town behind. Its location appears more random when seen from the south side and Princes Street Gardens, but it dominates the eastern section of the gardens through its scale and elevated position.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art 

Hosted in one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings, visit and come face to face with the people who shaped Scotland’s past, present and future, from Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, to contemporary figures such as Karen Gillan and Alan Cumming. 

Explore the outstanding National Collection in its bespoke 19th century home, from the suite of grand, top-lit galleries to smaller, intimate rooms, and discover the Photography Gallery and the atmospheric Victorian Library. 

The Gallery has new and featured exhibitions all the time and their website is the best source of information on what is currently on. 

Visit the Café Portrait for lunch or even just a coffee break, this family-friendly venue is one of the best cafés in Edinburgh. 

Admission is free  but tickets must be booked in advance. Official website: https://www.nationalgalleries.org/

Johnnie Walker Princess Street 

The flagship Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a must-visit destination on your city break to Edinburgh. The venue is spread over eight floors and has become a local hotspot with dining experiences, bars and a whisky retail area. 

You can also book a personalised whisky experience. Enjoy world-class cocktails and incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar. 

Official Website: https:// www.johnniewalker.com/en-gb/visit-us-princesstreet/

National Museum Scotland 

Visit the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh. And, best of all, entry is free. With over 20,000 unique artefacts to see, there’s something for everyone, and fun for all the family. 

Spend the day learning about the catacombs of Egypt, the wonders of nature and even modern-day technology. 

The National Museum of Scotland, is rated one of the UK’s top 10 visitor attractions. Official Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/scotland

Edinburgh Dungeon 

The Edinburgh Dungeon is an award-winning, 70- minute interactive and immersive, underground walk-through experience which brings 1000’s of years of Scottish history to life! 

Why not come and experience the ultimate underground journey where you can see, hear and smell Edinburgh’s murky past! From the dark shadows of the Black plague to Sawney Bean the cannibal. 

Come face the notorious characters from days gone by. Recommended for ages 8 and up, the Dungeon is located in the heart of Edinburgh minutes from Waverley Station. 

Official website: https://www.thedungeons.com/ edinburgh/

Festival Theatre 

The Festival Theatre is located centrally and stands on the site of the old Empire Theatre and opened in 1994, boasting the largest stage of any presenting house in Britain at the time. 

Today, at just over 2,500 square feet it is the largest performance area in Scotland, second only to the Royal Opera House in the UK, and is established as one of the country’s most prestigious venues. 

It is the home for Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera, and at the heart of the Edinburgh International Festival. Official website: www.capitaltheatres.com Scotch Whisky Experience Take a sensational journey through a replica distillery, before your expert guide imparts the secrets of the Whisky regions. 

Finally, you’ll choose your perfect ‘dram’, and taste it in The World’s Largest Whisky Collection. This is a great way to get a Scotch Whisky Experience if you do not have the time to visit the Speyside distilleries themselves. 

Official Website: https:// www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/

Useful websites and links 

When traveling to Scotland, there are several useful websites and links that can provide valuable information and assistance. Here are some recommendations:

• VisitScotland ( https://www.visitscotland.com/ ): The official website of Scotland’s national tourist board offers comprehensive information on destinations, attractions, accommodations, events, and travel tips.
• Historic Environment Scotland ( https://www.historicenvironment.scot/ ): This website provides information about Scotland’s historic sites, castles, and cultural heritage. You can find details about opening hours, admission fees, and special events.
• National Rail Enquiries ( https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ ): If you plan to explore Scotland by train, this website provides timetables, ticket information, and journey planning tools for trains across the country.
• CalMac Ferries ( https://www.calmac.co.uk/ ): If you’re considering traveling to the Scottish islands, CalMac Ferries operates services to various destinations. Their website offers route information, schedules, and booking options.
• Traffic Scotland ( https://trafficscotland.org/ ): For up-to-date information on road conditions, traffic updates, and planned roadworks, Traffic Scotland is an essential resource. It helps you plan your journeys and avoid potential delays.
• The Met Office ( https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ ): To check the weather forecast in Scotland, the Met Office provides detailed and reliable information, including temperature, rainfall, wind conditions, and severe weather warnings.
• Walkhighlands ( https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/ ): If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, Walkhighlands offers a wealth of information on walking routes, trail descriptions, maps, and tips for exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes.
• The Official Guide to the National Cycle Network ( https://www.sustrans.org.uk/national-cycle-network/ ): If you prefer cycling, this website by Sustrans provides maps, route suggestions, and practical advice for cycling adventures in Scotland.
• Traveline Scotland ( https://www.travelinescotland.com/ ): This website offers comprehensive public transportation information, including bus and coach timetables, routes, and journey planning tools to help you navigate Scotland’s transport network.
• ScotRail ( https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ ): If you’re specifically traveling by train within Scotland, ScotRail’s website provides train timetables, ticket information, and service updates.

Remember to consult official government websites or local authorities for the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and safety guidelines specific to Scotland.

For more information on Scotland and your Scotland trip visit www.lovetovisitscotland.com

Download your Ulitmate Scotland Travel Guide b y Clicking Here – or on the image below

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Scotland Road Trip Guide With Easy 7 Days Itinerary

• Updated 31st January 2024

Homepage » Interest » Scotland Road Trip Guide With Easy 7 Days Itinerary

Buckle up for an epic Scotland road trip, where breathtaking landscapes collide with charming villages and adventures unfold at every turn.

Ditch the tourist trail and embrace the freedom of the open road, scooting your way to Scotland’s most mesmerizing sights with your loved ones by your side.

Forget rigid schedules and crowded tourist traps. Start your road trip vacation on your own pace winding through rugged mountains and mirror-still lochs.

I’ll unveil the best driving routes, packed with unforgettable stops, must-see sights and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Everything you need to craft your dream Scotland road trip adventure.

Planning Your Scotland Road Trip

Scotland beckons with windswept castles, hidden lochs and endless horizons. But how long should you plan for it?

Weekend warriors yearning for a short burst of enchantment can embark on a two days packed itinerary with dramatic scenery, charming villages, and perhaps a tantalizing glimpse of Skye’s magic that will leave you yearning for more.

For those opting for seven days or more, venture into Scotland’s unique landscapes, discover ancient standing stones on forgotten islands, hike remote glens with the wind as your companion and lose yourself in the experience of local festivals.

Whether you choose a weekend whirlwind or a multi-week odyssey, let your Scottish road trip be a canvas for creating wonderful memories.

Head to the next section where we unveil the most breathtaking driving routes for your summer adventure!

Scotland Road Trip Best Routes

1. north coast 500.

Let’s start your driving adventure on the North Coast 500, a mesmerizing journey that unveils the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

As you navigate this scenic route, the landscapes shift dramatically from lush green valleys to dramatic coastal cliffs, offering a visual symphony of nature’s grandeur.

The North Coast 500, often referred to as “Scotland’s Route 66,” spans approximately 500 miles, encompassing an immersive tapestry of experiences. Along the way, quaint villages beckon with their historic charm, inviting you to explore their secrets.

The road itself is an adventure, winding through mountain passes and hugging the coastline, treating you to breathtaking vistas at every turn.

It’s not just a drive; it’s a voyage into the heart of Scotland’s hidden gems, where each mile reveals a new chapter in the country’s rich tapestry.

2. Bealach na Bà

Brave the twists and turns of the Bealach na Bà, a legendary mountain pass etched into the rugged terrain of the Applecross Peninsula. As your wheels navigate the hairpin bends and steep ascents, you’ll feel the pulse of adventure quicken.

Actually this winding road, aptly named the “Pass of the Cattle,” leads you to heights that promise not only an adrenaline-inducing drive but also unparalleled panoramic views.

Ascending the route unfolds like a magnificent tapestry, revealing the confluence of sea and mountains in a breathtaking symphony of nature.

Once at the summit, the world below transforms into a masterpiece—a canvas of azure waters merging with majestic peaks. The Bealach na Bà is a testament to the allure of Scotland’s untamed wilderness, a chapter in your road trip that will linger in memory like a vivid dream.

3. The Borders Abbeys Way

Embark on the lesser-known Borders Abbeys Way, a captivating route that winds through the serene landscapes of the Scottish Borders, linking historic abbeys and unveiling the region’s picturesque countryside.

This hidden gem provides a journey through time and tranquility, beckoning travelers to veer off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

The trail reads like a storybook, with each abbey revealing a chapter in the tale of Scotland’s religious and cultural heritage. Take a stroll through the remnants of Melrose Abbey, where medieval stonework whispers tales of centuries past.

Continue your journey to Jedburgh Abbey, standing proudly amidst its well-preserved ruins, and feel the echoes of ancient prayers in the quiet air.

The Borders Abbeys Way serves as an ode to the serenity of the countryside and the resilience of ancient structures, creating a harmonious blend of nature and history that is sure to leave an indelible mark on your Scottish road trip.

4. Glen Orchy and Loch Tulla

Traverse the hidden gem of Glen Orchy and Loch Tulla, a serene landscape nestled amidst the towering Scottish mountains.

This enchanting journey takes you through the heart of nature’s tranquility, where the winding glen and reflective waters of Loch Tulla create a symphony of untouched beauty.

As you scoot through the glen, surrounded by ancient woodlands and majestic peaks, the world outside your car window transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of undisturbed wilderness.

Pause your journey to savor the stillness and capture the breathtaking reflections in the crystal-clear waters of Loch Tulla.

The loch mirrors the surrounding peaks, creating a scene that seems almost surreal in its pristine beauty. Here, time slows, and the quietness allows you to connect with the untouched landscapes that define the essence of Scotland. 

5. Moray Firth Coastal Route

Check out the Moray Firth Coastal Route, a mesmerizing journey where dolphins frequently grace the waters with their playful presence.

As you follow this scenic route, be enchanted by coastal villages that echo with the charm of a bygone era, sandy beaches inviting you to unwind, and an overall serene ambiance that envelops the coastline.

The Moray Firth unfolds a captivating tapestry of natural beauty, where the dance of dolphins adds a magical touch to an already picturesque landscape.

It’s a road trip that immerses you in the tranquility of the seaside, offering a perfect blend of marine marvels and the coastal charisma that defines this enchanting stretch of Scotland.

6. Sandwood Bay's Remote Beauty

Go on an easy hike to the remote Sandwood Bay for an unparalleled, secluded beach experience. As you traverse the windswept landscapes to reach this hidden gem, the journey becomes as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself.

Upon arrival, admire the pristine expanse of sands stretching as far as you can see, framed by rugged cliffs and the untouched beauty of an isolated coastal haven.

Sandwood Bay captivates with its remote allure, a sanctuary where the crashing of waves and the untouched, windswept scenery combine to create a landscape that feels absolutely timeless.

7. Fairy Glen in Rosemarkie

Take a magical journey and visit the Fairy Glen in Rosemarkie, a lesser-known haven that unfolds like a fairy-tale landscape.

Explore the mystical gorges, where ancient stones seem to whisper secrets, and meandering waterfalls cascade through the lush greenery.

The Fairy Glen casts a spell with its secluded charm, inviting you to wander through a dreamscape of verdant landscapes and ethereal beauty.

This hidden gem in Rosemarkie is not just a pit stop; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the enchantment of nature’s wonders, where every corner reveals a new facet of the fairy-tale allure.

8. Clan Visits and Castles

Nothing like a captivating journey through Scotland’s rich history as you delve into ancestral clan sites and historic palaces and castles .

Each step takes you deeper into the tales of clans, their triumphs, and struggles, weaving a narrative that resonates with the spirit of the land.

Explore the grandeur of medieval architecture as ancient castles stand as silent witnesses to centuries gone by.

Whether wandering through the haunting corridors of Eilean Donan Castle or standing on the battlements of Stirling Castle, historical encounters become immersive experiences.

This exploration is pretty much a pilgrimage through time, where the echoes of Scotland’s storied past reverberate through the stone walls and across the landscapes that bear witness to the events that shaped a nation.

9. Jacobite Steam Train Journey

Park your car and stretch your legs with an enchanting adventure as you board the Jacobite Steam Train, a journey that transcends time through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, crowned by the awe-inspiring Glenfinnan Viaduct.

As the vintage locomotive chugs along historic routes, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere reminiscent of the Harry Potter films.

The rhythmic cadence of the steam engine becomes a soundtrack to the unfolding panorama, where lush valleys and rugged mountains provide a stunning backdrop to this nostalgic voyage.

Navigate over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously known as a symbol of cinematic wonder, and feel the connection between fiction and reality as you step into the enchanting world of Hogwarts.

The Jacobite Steam Train is a time-traveling journey that invites you to relive the charm of bygone eras while you journey through landscapes that seem touched by magic.

Scotland Road Trip 7 Day itinerary

• Day 1: Edinburgh

Get acquainted with the road trip route and stop at Edinburgh Castle, a 7 minutes drive from the city center. Highlights include the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny and the oldest building in Edinburgh, which is undoubtedly St. Margaret’s Chapel.  

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city. The Royal Mile’s cobblestone streets are lined with beautiful landmarks, including St. Giles’ Cathedral, the historic Heart of Midlothian, and numerous museums.

Royal Mile is also a hub of activities during the Edinburgh Festival and the annual Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations. This locale is a pretty cool place for making your dinner plans with tons of shops, cafes and restaurants. 

• Day 2: Stirling and Loch Lomond

Drive to Stirling and visit Stirling Castle, an iconic landmark in Scottish history. Backed in the 15th- 16th century, the Royal Palace within the castle was adorned with beautiful tapestries, lavish furnishings and vibrant decorations, making it a center of royalty life and cultural activity.

Fast forward to today, visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors including the beautifully recreated Renaissance-style Great Hall and startling Chapel Royal. The castle also houses several museums that display its history and artifacts.

Loch Lomond is a stunning freshwater lake located in the southern part of the Scottish Highlands, about 39 miles and around 56 minutes on cruising speed from Stirling.

If your kids have a keen eye for birds of prey, make a stop at the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre. You can observe magnificent birds up close, watch flying displays and even have the opportunity to handle these amazing hunters of the sky.

Family with kids will surely love the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail, an enchanting woodland walk where they can discover whimsical fairy houses and sculptures hidden among the trees.

Places to stay: Consider staying overnight in the charming town of Balloch, a 15 minutes drive along the banks of Loch Lomond. There are family-run lodges and hotels with full facilities including golf courses, spa and plenty of activities like watersports and clay pigeon shooting.

• Day 3: Isle of Skye

Have you rested enough? Because the next route will take you more than 4 hours to the Isle of Skye, surely one of Scotland’s most popular Pit stop on the road trip itinerary.

The island is the largest in the Inner Hebrides archipelago and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It’s pretty well-known for the iconic Cuillin mountain range, steep cliffs and beautiful long coastline.

Besides a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts like hiking, rock climbing and mountaineering in the Cuilin mountains, there are also interesting stuff for beachgoers such as sea kayaking, fishing and boat trips to spot wildlife.

If you are feeling peckish, don’t miss the chance to savor fresh seafood including the famous Scottish salmon, langoustines and scallops in the village’s relaxing restaurants.

• Day 4: Inverness and Loch Ness

Inverness is about 2 hours plus drive from Skype and the gateway to the Scottish highlands. The city is also famously known as the “capital of the Highlands” and a paradise for outdoor adventures.

Hike in the nearby Cairngorms National Park, explore the Great Glen Way or indulge in various water sports on the legendary Loch Ness lake, a stone’s throw away from Inverness.

Hoping to catch a glimpse of Nessie? The elusive or mystical Loch Ness Monster (depending on your imagination) is so popular that it has a “ visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition” and boat tours for visitors to explore the lake. 

Festivals and Events: Inverness hosts several cultural events the whole year round including the Inverness Highland Games, Inverness Music Festival and Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, a popular music event held on the outskirt of town.

• Day 5: Cairngorms National Park

Just 22 minutes away from Inverness lies the Cairngorms National Park located in the northeastern part of Scotland, and it’s the largest national park in the country.

The mountain range spans a breathtaking area of approximately 4,528 square kilometers and is home to 6 species of deer in the UK including red deer, roe deer, sika deer, and fallow deer.

There are tons of unique wildlife to this locale as well as Flora and Fauna. The town of Aviemore is a great vacation spot for winter sports, with ski resorts, tranquil lochs and lush forest for mountain biking.

• Day 6: Glasgow

An one and half hour road trip take you to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city known for its art and culture. The city center is packed with street stores, designer boutiques and bustling markets.

Buchanan Street, known as Glasgow’s main shopping thoroughfare, offers a variety of retail options complete with a wide range of bars, clubs and live music venues.

Perhaps, this a another cool spot for a Pit stop if you are a soccer fan. The top two major clubs, Celtic and Rangers are based here. Visit Hampden Park for a live game on weekend is a pretty fun experience.

• Day 7: Trossachs National Park

The Trossachs National Park is about a short 37 minutes drive from Glasgow on a picturesque route passing Loch Lomond and the last leg of your road trip journey.

If you love strolling along stunning landscapes which include forests, lochside (lakes) and hilltops, the Great Trossachs Path is your last stop to enrich your soul.

You can choose different trails (short, long, looping). The long walking trail stretches for 30 miles and can be connected to other paths as well.

If you wish to take in some fresh air and relax, Callander town is a gateway to the Trossachs and offers charming streets, shops and cafes.

Take a stroll along the River Teith, taste local crafts and enjoy a delightful meal or a cup of tea before ending your amazing and memorable road trip in Scotland. 

Must-Visit Destinations

Edinburgh , the capital city of Scotland, is a brilliant blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock to the picturesque cobbled streets of the Old Town, this city is rich in history and culture.

With its lively festivals, stunning views, and warm hospitality, Edinburgh truly has something enchanting for everyone to enjoy.

The Isle of Skye is a gem of rugged beauty nestled in Scotland’s mystical landscape. With its dramatic cliffs, enchanting waterfalls, and mystical mist, every corner of Skye offers a magical experience for the soul.

From the famed Old Man of Storr to the fairy pools that glisten in hues of blue, this island is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and folklore of Skye, and let its whispers of ancient tales and untamed landscapes captivate your spirit. 

Driving In Scotland

Forget about putting your foot down and racing through sweeping bends. When driving in Scotland winding roads, don’t picture yourself as a road warrior as it only happens in the movies. Remember, your companions in the vehicle is your total responsibility.

In Scotland, you need to drive on the left side of the road, and the legal driving age is 17. The speed limits is at 30 mph in the cities, 60 mph on single carriageways and 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.

Ensure you have a valid international driving permit , obey traffic signs and strap up just in case you suddenly encounter a Red deer crossing the road.

Road Traffic Scotland

Scotland Traffic Scene: ( trafficscotland.org ) This official website provides real-time traffic information, including live updates on road closures, delays, and incidents across Scotland. It also provides weather information, and travel bulletins.

Met Office: ( metoffice.gov.uk ) The Met Office is the UK’s national weather service. Their website provides detailed weather forecasts, severe weather warnings, and alerts for various regions, including Scotland. You can find information about road conditions, weather hazards, and travel advice.

Scottish Outdoor Access Code: ( outdooraccess-scotland.scot ) Its like a code of conduct for visitors looking to enjoy the great outdoors and advise on visiting places of interest.

Car Rental Edinburgh

Renting a car in Edinburgh might be a little tricky especially if you are going on a road trip. So what is your most ideal vehicle to consider?

•  Car hire in airport
• Car hire in city center
• Car hire with unlimited mileage
• Car hire with child seats
• Car hire with roof rack
• Car hire with snow tires

Evaluating different car rental companies to find the best deal that suits your needs, preferences and most of all, within your budget is your best option.

DiscoverCars is one rental company with a website and booking platform dedicated to rental rates, vehicle types, rental terms and conditions, additional fees and customer reviews across various car rental companies.

By comparing a all-in-one car rental booking platform, you can make the most appropriate decision, find the best rental deals and assure a smooth driving experience in Scotland.

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• Feb 25, 2023
• 10 min read

Scotland Travel Guide: 10 Amazing Places To Visit in Scotland

Updated: Jan 15

Scotland is the most northerly part of the four areas that make up the United Kingdom. It’s known for rugged landscapes defined by mysterious lochs, magical mountains, and gothic castles. Scotland also has a strong culture featuring Celtic music, traditional kilts, and sophisticated whiskies. It’s a true land of extremes, where the rainy and windy weather conditions pose challenges to live and explore, but the beautiful landscapes and friendly people make it a rewarding travel destination. In this Scotland travel guide, we highlight the 10 best places to visit, including things to do, places to stay, and places to eat for each destination. We also share some road trip itinerary suggestions at the end.

Check out our video about Scotland to see the best places to visit through our camera!

Table of Contents

Important Things To Know Before You Go

Best Places To Visit in Scotland (+ places to stay & eat)

Road trip itineraries and other places to visit.

Tips to save money and other resources

Important Things To Know

Best time to travel to scotland.

Scotland’s high season runs from July to mid-September . This is when you will find the best weather but also most crowds. Days are longer, the weather is warmer, and hotel and car rental prices are at their highest. That said, it can still rain any given day and time! So you should always be prepared and carry a rain jacket.

The shoulder season is from May-June and mid-September-October . We traveled to Scotland during November and wouldn't recommend that time of the year as it rained most of our time.

Getting To & Around Scotland

Most international flights arrive at the Edinburgh Airport (EDI) , though many European cities also connect to Aberdeen International Airport, Glasgow International Airport, and Glasgow Prestwick International Airport.

The best way to get around Scotland is by rental car , though keep in mind that they drive on the left side here, with the steering wheel on the right. There are also many roundabouts and with multiple lanes they can sometimes be very confusing! We found it particularly challenging driving around the busier cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Alternatively, you can take buses and trains between major cities and towns . However, it's difficult to get around the national parks and islands by public transportation. You can browse train routes and schedules at the official ScotRail website .

Cost and currency

Scotland is part of the UK, and uses the Pound Sterling (£) . We used our credit card all the time and never carried any cash. Credit cards seem to be accepted anywhere!

The cost of traveling around Scotland is high. Expect to pay between $80 and 250$ USD per person per day . The cost of food, transportation, accommodation, and activities is high, but you can easily reduce costs by spending some nights camping or cooking your own meals.

Safety in Scotland

Scotland is an incredibly safe place to visit. People are generally friendly and ready to help. As with most major cities, be careful at night as petty crime and pickpockets can be a problem.

Scotland uses the same plugs as the rest of the UK, which is the plug type G (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern). This is different from the standard plugs in Europe or the US. We recommend purchasing a travel adaptor before traveling to Scotland.

If you're traveling to Scotland and want to save time searching for directions to all of the places we mention in this article, then look no further than our custom map. Simply click on a point in the map below to get directions there for yourself!

10. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is located in the south-east and it’s Scotland’s most beautiful and interesting city. This is the place to take in the unique Scottish culture, with a vibrant pub scene and intriguing historic sites. Visit Edinburgh Castle to learn about its turbulent past, hike Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat to take in the beautiful scenery, or catch a live show at one of the many pubs along the Royal Mile . One thing is for sure: you won’t get bored here!

Where to eat & drink

Albanach : good pub food, try the " haggis " there.

BrewDog : go for live music

Jolly Judge : small but local pub (drinks only)

The Advocate : during the week they have great deals such as 2 meals for the price of 1

Scotsman's Lounge : pub with live music

Dishroom : the best Indian food in our opinion (though very expensive)

Union of Genius : if you're a soup lover just like us, you have to try this place

The Outsider Restaurant : great food, made from fresh local products

Where to stay

Straven Guesthouse : If you want to visit Edinburgh but don't want to stay in the city centre, this beautiful guesthouse is perfect for you. It is in Portobello, 50 meters from the beach and it is only a 15-minute drive by car or bike and 20 minutes by bus.

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile : With its perfect location in the old town, this hotel is a gem.

Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+): Excellent location in the old town, but more affordable double rooms and hostel rooms with bunk beds for solo travellers!

9. Stirling

Located about 40 miles or 64 kilometers to the west of Edinburgh, Stirling is known for its medieval castle. Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most important castles thanks to its strategic position guarding a crossing point on the River Forth. Two of the major battles in Scotland's struggle for Independence were fought nearby. It's also worth strolling around the city itself and exploring other attractions, such as the National Wallace Monument, the Stirling Smith Art Gallery, the Old Town Jail, and Cambuskenneth Abbey.

Brea - Scottish Restaurant: Scottish cuisine, burgers and vegan options.

Dempsey's Diner: great place for breakfast

Molly Malones: live music and beers

Lost Guest House Stirling : This is where we stayed, a budget option but decent rooms

The TollHouse: Another budget option with castle view

8. Loch Lomond & the Trassachs National Park

Situated approximately 60 miles or 96 kilometers to the west of Edinburgh, Loch Lomond & the Trassachs National Park is the oldest national park in Scotland. It’s one of the most popular places to visit thanks to its proximity to urban areas as well as a wide variety of activities. From taking a boat tour on Loch Lomond to hiking or biking one of the many trails, there’s a lot to do here. The West Highland Trail is a popular long-distance hike that crosses the entire park. Other beautiful but shorter hikes include Ben A’an in the Trossachs and Conic Hill on the east bank of Loch Lomond. We spotted many highland cows on the Conic Hill hike, making the trek extra rewarding!

Clachan Inn: Also has great pub food!

Perch Café Restaurant: high quality food and great wine

Oak Tree Inn: great for lunch

Loch Lomond is huge, so there are many different areas you can stay in! We recommend staying near Balmaha, as that's where most of the action takes place.

The Clachan Inn : A cozy, affordable place near Balmaha, Loch Lomond

Oak Tree Inn: Great location in Balmaha, next to the lake shore

7. Glencoe Valley

Glencoe Valley is located in the Scottish Highlands in western Scotland. The area is known for its impressive mountain scenery, beautiful waterfalls, and trails that climb steep peaks, such as the Pap of Glencoe or Aonach Eagach Ridge , which requires a bit of rock climbing and scrambling experience. The road through the Glencoe Valley takes you through the heart of an ancient volcano and the drive is spectacular. Beautiful stops include the Three Sisters Viewpoint and Glencoe waterfall .

Glencoe Gathering: Local Highland bistro & pub

The Laroch Restaurant and Bar: casual bistro & pub

Loch Leven & Distillery: Located in North Ballachulish, which is nearby Glencoe

The Corran Bunkhouse: Located in Onich, which is a 15 mins drive from Glencoe. This is where we stayed and found it great quality-value, with a fully-equipped shared kitchen and comfy beds!

Glencoe Youth Hostel: dormitory at cheaper price

6. Glen Nevis

Located right outside the town Fort William , Glen Nevis is one of the most spectacular and beautiful glens in the Highlands. Above all, it’s home to Britain’s highest mountain: Ben Nevis , which is an impressive day hike. But you can also take in this dramatic scenery via the public road or other shorter trails. We hiked to the impressive Steall Falls , one of the three highest waterfalls in Scotland. This 2.1 mi or 3.5 kms out-and-back trail only takes 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. It’s also a filming location for a number of Harry Potter films, serving as a stunning backdrop and the place where Harry takes on the Hungarian Horntail dragon in the Goblet of Fire.

Garrison West: Located in the Garrison Hotel, this pub has some great food and drink options

The Crofter Bar and Restaurant: pub/restaurant with simple comfort food

The Fort Coffee Collective: fantastic coffee and comfy sofas

The Garrison Hotel: Great hotel with comfy beds in the heart of Fort William (we stayed here!)

Roam West: budget option in Fort William

5. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Only a stone's throw away from Glen Nevis and Fort William, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-visit in Scotland! Made famous in the Harry Potter films, this 21-arched viaduct is set amongst some of Scotland’s finest scenery, overlooking Loch Shiel and the Jacobite Monument . One way of exploring this area is on foot and another way is by embarking the Jacobite Steam Train , also referred to as Hogwarts Express, which travels between Fort William and Mallaig! We did both and prefer walking the Glenfinnan Viaduct Circular Trail to really enjoy the beautiful scenery.

There isn't much out here besides a visitor center that offers coffee and tea. It's best to stay, eat, and drink in Fort William when visiting this area. Find our recommendations regarding accommodation options under Ben Nevis.

4. Inverness

Inverness is the northernmost city in the United Kingdom and is regarded as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. Similar to Edinburgh, the city has a fantastic pub scene with great live music in the evenings. Some of the main highlights of the city include the Inverness Cathedral , Leaky’s Bookshop , and a walk to the Ness Islands . But one of our favorite things to do there was actually taste Whisky from different areas around Scotland. Find more things to do in our Inverness Travel Guide .

The Mustard Seed Restaurant : this restaurant has one of the best steaks in the city!

River House : great local seafood

Cafe One : good local cuisine

Highlander: great live music, also serves food

Hootananny: great live music and food

Gellions Bar: oldest pub in Inverness

Roseneath Guest House : great location and comfy beds!

Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa : luxurious stay at a beautiful location

Alban & Abbey House: this is where we stayed, great price-value and good location

3. Loch Ness

Located only a short drive from Inverness, Loch Ness is one of Scotland's most famous places. This freshwater loch is home to the legendary monster called Nessie, which is said to live in the deep, murky waters. The visibility is exceptionally low due to a high peat content in the soil, but there have been various claimed Nessie sightings over the years. And although many of the encounters have been discredited over time, it’s still a thrill to head to the lake. Fort Augustus is situated on the southern tip of Loch Ness, offering boat tours and spectacular views. But if you want to learn more about this legend, head to the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition . Also make sure to check out the ruins of spectacular Urquhart Castle . This is one of the most picturesque scenes in Scotland and a must-visit in our opinion. There are many day tours from Inverness that cover both the castle and lakeshore.

Monster Fish & Chips Co: Located in Fort Augustus, this fish & chips place is great for a quick and cheap lunch

Papa G's: Another great, simple lunch spot in Fort Augustus

The Italian Job: Italian restaurant near the castle

It's best to stay in Inverness and explore Loch Ness for the day, as it's a lot more affordable.

2. Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed castles in the world for a good reason. It’s perfectly situated on a small island with a charming curved bridge connecting it to the mainland. It really looks like something straight out of a fairytale. The fortifications of the castle were first built in the middle of the 13th century and four different versions of the castle have been built since then. It’s a great stop on your way to the Isle of Skye, which we’ll get to next.

1. Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is located off the West Coast of mainland Scotland. It’s home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes shaped by jagged mountain peaks, towering sea cliffs, and large stretches of greenery. It’s no wonder that tourists have been drawn here for centuries. Some incredible sights include the Old Man of Storr , Quiraing , the Fairy Pools , Fairy Glen , and Kilt Rock . You can find more information about this magical island here.

The Caledonian Cafe: Located in Portree, this place offers great coffee and classic comfort food (like burgers!)

Fat Panda Takeaway: Chinese takeaway place

The Chippy Portree: Takeaway fish & chips

Sea Breezes: seafood restaurant but more pricey, located on the waterfront of Portree

Kinloch Ainort Apartments : this place is awesome. It had all we needed and was beautifully decorated. We loved the kitchen and comfy beds. The apartments also have Netflix which was a bonus as it was raining quite a bit when we were on the Isle of Skye!

Broadford Lodges Skye : this place has an amazing location. Price/quality is super good!

We also included a few itinerary options on the screen here in case you want to use them to guide your own trip. It’s best to rent a car to get to these places and you can find great car rental deals here .

7 Day Itinerary

2 days in Edinburgh

1 day in Glencoe Valley

1 day at Glenfinnan Viaduct & Eilean Donan Castle

3 days in Isle of Skye

If you have 10 Days, add:

1 day Glen Nevis

1 day Loch Ness

1 day Inverness

If you have 14 days, add:

2 days at Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park

Spend 1 more day in Edinburgh

Spend 1 more day in the Glencoe Valley

If you have more time in Scotland or you would like to see more castles, urban areas, or islands, it’s worth checking out other beautiful destinations that we didn’t mention. Some of these places include:

Isle of Islay

Cairngorms National Park

Dunnottar Castle & Aberdeen

More Scotland Resources

Scotland can be difficult to plan for. So we've pulled together a mix of resources we've created as well as other top Scotland resources from around the internet for you:

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Inverness Travel Guide

Isle Of Sky Travel Guide

10 days in Scotland Alternate Itinerary Ideas

Rick Steves Scotland Itinerary

Top things in Scotland as said by Scotland Tourism

Use These Websites To Save Money On Your Trip To Scotland

Booking.com for places to stay

Skyscanner for cheap flights

GetYourGuide for local tours

Rentalcars.com for affordable car rentals

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Hi! We are Ine & Zac. An international travel couple from Belgium and the US. We created World Wild Hearts to inspire life-changing travel experiences like we've had. Use these tips, stories, and guides to inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

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Edinburgh & Glasgow in 4 Days: A Cultural and Historic Journey

April 22, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day adventure through the heart of Scotland, exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Begin your journey at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an ancient volcano, offering a glimpse into Scotland's military past. Spend a leisurely 2 hours here before descending into the lush Princes Street Gardens for another 2 hours of serene exploration. Stroll along Princes Street, Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, and immerse yourself in the city's bustling atmosphere for an hour. Conclude your first day with a visit to the National Galleries of Scotland, indulging in an hour of artistic marvels. Day two invites you to delve into the National Museum of Scotland for an extensive 3-hour tour, followed by panoramic views from Calton Hill. Later, step into the royal residence at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, dedicating 2 hours to its regal splendor. The third day takes you to Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and site of a hill fort, for a brisk 1-hour hike with breathtaking views. Wander along the historic Royal Mile for an hour, and then reflect on the grandeur of St Giles' Cathedral with a 1-hour visit. Pay homage to the literary giant Sir Walter Scott at the Scott Monument, a quick but memorable 30-minute stop. Your final day transitions to Glasgow, starting with the tranquil Glasgow Botanic Gardens for an hour. Next, explore the prestigious University of Glasgow for 3 hours, soaking in the academic ambiance. Conclude your cultural journey at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, spending 2 hours amongst the masterpieces. This itinerary promises a blend of Scotland's finest attractions, ensuring a memorable trip filled with discovery and enchantment.

• Day 1: Enchanting Edinburgh - Castles, Gardens, and Galleries

Edinburgh Castle

Begin your Edinburgh adventure with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically atop Castle Rock. As you explore this historic fortress, which has dominated the city's skyline for centuries, allow yourself to be transported back in time. With a two-hour stay, you'll have ample opportunity to discover its military past, marvel at the Crown Jewels, and soak in panoramic views of the city.

Attraction Info

• Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 03/29-09/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 10/01-12/23,9:30am-5:00pm;Closed from 12/25-12/26;Open from 12/27-12/31,9:30am-5:00pm;Open 9:30am-4:00pm on 12/24;Open 11:00am-5:00pm on 01/01;Open from 01/02-03/28,9:30am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Princes Street Gardens

After delving into the depths of history, unwind in the serene Princes Street Gardens. Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. Spend a couple of hours meandering through the vibrant floral displays, or simply relax by the fountain and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

• Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG, United Kingdom
• Open from 7:00am-9:35pm

Princes Street

Continue your day by strolling down Princes Street, Edinburgh's most famous shopping thoroughfare. This characteristic neighborhood is not just a shopper's paradise but also a cultural hub. With an hour to explore, you can admire the street's historic architecture, indulge in some retail therapy, or savor a quick bite at one of the many cafes.

• Edinburgh, UK
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

National Galleries of Scotland: National

Conclude your first day's exploration at the National Galleries of Scotland. This prestigious art gallery and museum is a treasure trove of fine art, featuring works from the Renaissance to the present day. Spend an hour immersed in the masterpieces of both Scottish and international artists, rounding off a day filled with beauty and inspiration.

• The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 10:00am-5:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Destiny scotland hanover apartments, mercure edinburgh city - princes street hotel.

• Day 2: Cultural Treasures and Panoramic Views in Edinburgh

National Museum of Scotland

Begin your second day in Edinburgh with an intellectual feast at the National Museum of Scotland. Nestled on Chambers Street, this museum is a treasure trove of Scottish antiquities, culture, and natural history. Allocate around three hours to wander through its vast collections, which span from the age of dinosaurs to the present day, ensuring a deep dive into the heart of Scotland's heritage.

• Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 3 hour

Calton Hill

Next, ascend to the serene heights of Calton Hill, a mere stone's throw away from the bustling city center. This iconic landmark offers a tranquil respite and is the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours. Revel in the panoramic views of Edinburgh's skyline, capturing the essence of the city from this unique vantage point.

• Edinburgh EH7 5BN, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Open 24 hours

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Conclude your day's exploration at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Located at the end of the Royal Mile, this grand palace is steeped in royal history and political intrigue. Spend about two hours here, immersing yourself in the opulence and stories of past and present royals that echo through its halls and gardens.

• Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, United Kingdom
• Open from 11/01-03/31,Mon, Thu-Sun,9:30am-4:30pm;Closed from 09/30-03/31,Tue-Wed;Open from 04/01-05/15,Mon, Thu-Sun,9:30am-6:00pm;Closed from 04/01-05/15,Tue-Wed;Closed from 05/16-05/25;Open from 05/26-06/26,Mon, Thu-Sun,9:30am-6:00pm;Closed from 05/26-06/26,Tue-Wed;Closed from 06/27-07/05;Open from 07/06-09/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 10/01-10/31,Mon, Thu-Sun,9:30am-6:00pm

Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood

The park at holyrood.

• Day 3: Edinburgh's Historic Highlights

Arthur's Seat

Kick off your third day with a morning ascent to Arthur's Seat, the main peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh, offering panoramic views of the city. Allow yourself an hour to soak in the vistas from this ancient volcano and the tranquility of Holyrood Park. It's the perfect natural start before diving back into the urban charm of Edinburgh.

• Edinburgh EH15 3PY, United Kingdom

Next, meander down to the Royal Mile, the bustling, historic artery of Edinburgh's Old Town. Spend an hour exploring this characteristic neighborhood, which is a tapestry of Scottish history, vibrant culture, and lively street performances. Don't miss the chance to pop into the quaint shops and cafes that line this famous thoroughfare.

• Edinburgh EH1 1QS, United Kingdom

St Giles' Cathedral

A short stroll from the Royal Mile, allocate an hour to immerse yourself in the spiritual serenity of St Giles' Cathedral. This historic church, with its distinctive crown steeple, is a cornerstone of Scottish religious history and offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Admire the stained glass windows and intricate architecture as you reflect on the cathedral's storied past.

• High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, United Kingdom
• Open on Sun,1:00pm-5:00pm;Open on Mon-Fri,10:00am-6:00pm;Open on Sat,9:00am-5:00pm

Scott Monument

Conclude your day's exploration with a visit to the Scott Monument, a stunning Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. A brief half-hour stay will allow you to appreciate the intricate design and perhaps climb the 287 steps for one last sweeping view of Edinburgh's skyline.

• E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ, United Kingdom
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 10:00am-4:30pm

Old Waverley Hotel

• Day 4: Glasgow's Greenery, Academia, and Artistic Splendor

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Begin your final day with a serene stroll through the lush landscapes of Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Nestled at 730 Great Western Rd, this verdant oasis offers a tranquil retreat from the city's bustle. As you meander along the winding paths, you'll encounter a variety of plant species, each contributing to the garden's tapestry of greenery. The Kibble Palace, a large glasshouse filled with tropical plants, is a highlight not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty for an hour, and let the peaceful surroundings set a reflective tone for the day ahead.

• 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
• Open from 10:00am-4:15pm

University of Glasgow

Next, steep yourself in the rich academic heritage of the University of Glasgow. With its imposing Gothic architecture, the university stands as a testament to Scotland's educational legacy. Spend about three hours exploring the historic quadrangles, admiring the grandeur of the buildings, and perhaps even catching a glimpse of student life. The university's atmosphere is imbued with the spirit of centuries of scholars, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate the confluence of knowledge and architectural beauty.

• Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Conclude your cultural journey at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Located on Argyle St, this magnificent institution is a treasure trove of art and history. Allocate two hours to wander through the vast collections, where each gallery unfolds a new narrative. From Renaissance art to Scottish history, and from natural history to modern masterpieces, Kelvingrove offers a diverse array of exhibits that will captivate your curiosity and leave you with a profound appreciation for Glasgow's artistic heritage.

• Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom
• Open on Fri, Sun,11:00am-5:00pm;Open on Mon-Thu, Sat,10:00am-5:00pm

The Alamo Guest House

Boutique 50.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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10 Best Road Trips in Europe [2024 Europe Road Trips Guide]

F act: road trip destinations don’t get much better than Europe. From the winding alpine roads of Switzerland and France to the spectacular coastal routes in Italy and Ireland, there are more incredible road trips in Europe than you can shake a stick at!

Furthermore, there are road trips for all occasions and interests. The best road trips in Europe take you through wine country, around lakes, into ancient towns, and up sweeping mountain passes. Truly, whether you have an afternoon or an entire month available, if you’re looking for an epic adventure, a cultural experience, or a simple break from the city, there’s a European road trip that’s up to the task.

The tricky part’s deciding which one to do first! To help, we’re going to reveal 10 of the best Europe road trips available – whether you go in a car, a campervan , or on a motorbike. Let’s dive in.

The Best Road Trips in Europe

Wild atlantic way in ireland.

The Wild Atlantic Way is an epic road trip that runs 1600 miles (2600km) along the west coast of Ireland. One of the world’s longest-defined coastal routes, it starts from Derry in the north and ends at the pretty town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south.

Wild in both name and nature, driving the entire distance will reveal the very best of Ireland’s rugged, ancient, and weather-beaten coastline. You’ll pass through stunning countryside and picturesque villages, bearing witness to historic monuments, towering cliffs, and legendary landscapes at every turn.

A few highlights of the route include:

• The magical Cliffs of Moher
• Slieve League (a mountain in Country Donegal whose name in Irish means “mountain of stone pillars”)
• The lively and historic town of Galway, and
• The Ring of Kerry (another famous European road trip)

North Coast 500 in Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Widely regarded as the best road trip in Scotland, it brings together 500+ miles of the country’s most impressive scenery, sights, and attractions.

Passing through the notorious Highlands, your mind will boggle at the remote and unblemished beauty on display. Quaint fishing villages, sugar-soft white sand beaches, age-old lochs, rugged mountains, and sites of historical significance are just a few of the hidden gems you can expect to encounter.

Starting and finishing in Inverness – the UK’s northernmost city – you hug the coast of Scotland along a series of existing roads that form a loop around the top of the country. This road trip was actually only established in 2014 but quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike. A few highlights of the route include:

• The huge Smoo Cave, which was formed by both sea and rainwater (making it unique in the UK)
• The ruins of Ardvreck Castle at Loch Assynt
• The wildlife (especially the infamous highland deer!)
• The mile-long Corrieshallock Gorge, complete with a Victorian suspension bridge that crosses it

Check out our guide to things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland .

Atlantic Road in Norway

Often referred to as one of the most beautiful drives on the planet, the Atlantic Road in Norway is a real sight to behold. A unique route and remarkable feat of engineering, the road connects Averoy with the mainland, snaking out over the ocean in a series of small islands and bridges.

Proof that the best road trips in Europe aren’t always the longest, the Atlantic Road itself is only 5 miles (8km) long. Officially, it runs from Karvag to Vevang. However, it forms one section of a longer National Tourist Route between Bud and Kristiansund – the entirety of which is worth driving.

A phenomenal road trip, it’ll be a struggle to keep your eyes on the road as you gaze at the coastal scenery – views that chop and change depending on the weather conditions you happen to experience at the time.

Explore more of Norway! Here are the best things to do in Oslo , family-friendly things to do in Bergen , and our guide to exploring Norway’s fjords .

Almafi Coast in Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular travel destinations. And for a good reason! This 30-mile (50km) stretch of coastline is unlike any other on the planet.

Colorful old villages sit atop sheer cliffs, with cerulean waters below reflecting the blue skies and blazing sun above . Beautiful beaches and hikes litter the area, matched only by the mass of restaurants, bars, shopping opportunities…and tourists!

Trust us, a road trip along this inimitable coastline is hard to beat. Driving down the Amalfi Coast road, otherwise known as the SS163, will leave you speechless.

A staggering stretch of tarmac, it hugs the cliffs and winds through pristine, pastel-colored towns – starting in Sorrento and heading south past Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Vietri sul Mare. Take it slow, stop to explore each town, and fall in love with the aptly-named Divina Costiera (AKA the Divine Coast).

Arctic Coast Way in Iceland

You’ll find another of the best road trips in Europe in Iceland. One of the most picturesque countries on earth, it’s full of incredible sights and natural wonders – as well as infamous driving routes that take you past some of its most iconic attractions.

Chief among Iceland’s famous road trips is the Arctic Coast Way. This epic, 560-mile (900km) journey runs along the country’s northern coast, encompassing six peninsulas and just as many islands. The whole route takes anywhere from 3 to 12 days to drive, and a 4×4 is recommended for the trip.

This is nature at its finest, and you’ll pass a huge array of unforgettable attractions. Indeed, it’d require an entire article to provide a complete list of Arctic Coast highlights! To keep things short, here are a select few items to add to your Iceland road trip itinerary:

• The Hofsos swimming pool, with its mindblowing views over the ocean
• The Hofsos basalt columns that rival the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland
• Humpback whale watching
• The geothermal sea baths at Husavik
• The Arctic Henge in Raufarhofn

Transfagarasan Highway in Romania

Welcome to what’s arguably Romania’s best-known road – not to mention one of its most popular tourist attractions.

Over 93 miles (150km) in length and with countless twists and turns, the Transfagarasan Highway looks like it was built solely to please road trippers! Expect switchback after switchback through a stunning landscape , leading up to an impressive high point of 6500 feet and exceptional views over the surrounding area.

The road cuts a striking sight – especially from above. Another amazing feat of engineering, it winds back and forth up a beautiful natural gorge, passes through tunnels, and crosses the Vidraru Dam (offering a fantastic look at the eponymous lake in the process).

Be sure to take your time and stop at the viewing points as you go. This is partly to stay safe on the ascent! But, with so much beauty on display, it’s mainly so you can make the most of the Transfagarasan Highway’s unbelievable scenery.

Ready to explore the Romanian capitol? Here are 10 great activities in Bucharest, Romania to enjoy with kids .

Route Napoleon in France

Route Napoleon isn’t just one of the best road trips in Europe. It’s also one of the most famous.

Following an escape route that Napoleon Bonaparte took in the early 19 th Century, the journey takes you 200 miles (325km) from the coastal town of Golfe-Juan, in the French Riviera, all the way north to the city of Grenoble.

The route’s as scenic as it is historic, too, passing a wide range and ever-changing landscapes from sweet-smelling lavender fields and pine forests to rolling hills, rocky outcrops, gorges, and mountains. Get ready for stunning vistas and equally impressive roads at every turn.

Trekaroo Tip: You can stick with tradition and attempt this Europe road trip in the same direction as Napoleon (from south to north). Yet many people choose to do it from north to south instead. That way, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea when you approach the French Riviera at the end.

Romantic Road in Germany

Romantic in both name and nature, this wonderful road trip is one of the very best in Germany. The Romantische Straße , as it’s called there, is 285 miles (460km) long and takes you through a slew of charming towns and jaw-dropping countryside, complete with ancient castles that look like something straight out of a Disney movie!

As for how long this road trip takes, consider giving yourself between three and four days to go from the start, in Wurzburg, until the end in Fussen. To prolong your German adventure, we recommend spending another couple of days in Munich afterward. Located just over 1.5 hours away from Fussen, the Capital of Bavaria is a popular travel destination in its own right.

Oberalp Pass in Switzerland

Searching for another iconic European road to drive down? Look no further than Oberalp Pass (AKA Route 19) in Switzerland.

Located at over 6,719 feet (2,048m) above sea level, this high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps connects the Graubunden and Uri cantons. However, all you really need to know is that it’s utterly phenomenal! Just under 20 miles long, the pass runs from Disentis to Andermatt and provides unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains at every twist and turn in the road.

Steep and riddled with switchbacks, the pass is magnificent. Take note, though: Oberalp Pass is usually impassable between the end of October through April (although the final dates depend on how much snow and meltwater are present).

Read our full guide to visiting Switzerland with kids .

Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria

Last but not least on this list of the best road trips in Europe is the Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria – the highest paved mountain road in the country.

Popular with cyclists and sports car enthusiasts alike, this memorable toll route climbs up to an almighty 8215 feet (2504m) above sea level in a mere 30 miles (48km), with no fewer than 36 hairpin bends along the way. It runs from Fusch-Furleiten in Salzburg to Heiligenblut in Carinthia, taking you into the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park in the process.

Once again, this European road trip isn’t available all year round. It’s usually open from the start of May until the end of October, although inclement weather conditions can restrict access to the road at any time of year.

As you can tell, thanks to its countless scenic roads and awe-inspiring landscapes, this diverse continent across the pond is a haven for anyone with a penchant for road trips. In fact, there are so many routes available that picking one can feel impossible!

With any luck, the options in this post will have given you some useful inspiration for which European road trip to do first. From the stunning Swiss Alps to the rugged coastline of Ireland, any of them is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Danny Newman is a digital nomad and freelance writer with a deep passion for travel. He’s also mad about #vanlife and offers fellow enthusiasts wide-ranging advice and inspiration on the topic over at campervantips.com .

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An intro to mezcal, the centuries-old Mexican spirit that's having a moment

Tequila’s cousin has been made in Mexico for centuries — and, in its Oaxacan heartland, you can see it made the traditional way.

Agave, or maguey in the ancient Nahuatl language of the Aztecs, has been part of Mesoamerican culture for thousands of years. Throughout Mexican history, it’s been used as a source of food, clothing, medicine and, since the Spanish conquest in 1526, to make spirits such as tequila and mezcal.

The ancestor of tequila, mezcal — derived from the word mexicali , meaning ‘cooked agave’ in the ancient Nahuatl language — was born after the Spanish introduced distillation to Mexico. Today, most producers continue making mezcal using 16th-century methods: the heart of the plant is smoked underground for several days before being crushed by a millstone known as a tahona , usually drawn by a horse or ox. The pulp is then added to wooden vats for fermentation, followed by at least two distillations in copper or clay pots.

“The agave plant has been part of my family history since the 18th century, and my personal history since the moment I was born,” says Graciela Ángeles Carreño, a fourth-generation producer at artisanal mezcal brand Real Minero . “At Real Minero, we don’t just use agave varieties that grow on Oaxacan soil, we also use stills and clay pots that are made by hand, no more than an hour from here.”

These timeworn production methods combined with the Mexican terroir create a smooth, smoky and seriously punchy spirit, with 38% to 55% alcohol depending on the brand. “Good mezcal, like any good cheese or wine, should taste of where it comes from. It should also respect tradition,” says Graciela. “As for how to enjoy mezcal: always drink it neat, and in good company.” Traditionally, the spirit would be drunk from copitas (small cups) and often served with a slice of orange and sal de gusano , a mix of salt, chilli, and toasted and ground agave worms.

Unlike tequila, which can only be made from blue agave, mezcal can be made from any agave plant native to Mexico. Nine Mexican states can legally produce the spirit, but the largest producer in the country is Oaxaca. This southern Mexican state is home to hundreds of family-owned, artisanal distilleries and considered the heartland of mezcal. Here, mezcal-making traditions are deeply entwined with the lives of rural Oaxaqueños, and fiercely protected.

“We are constantly being told what mezcal should or could be by outsiders, but what people need to understand is that mezcal isn’t just a trend or something to be sold — it’s part of who we [Oaxacan mezcal producers] are,” says Graciela. “We make mezcal in clay pots and bury it underground not because it makes us more money (it doesn’t) or because it’s easy (it’s not), but because it’s how our fathers and grandfathers did it, and how we want our children to do it.”

You can try mezcal in almost every bar in Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca state, but the best way to understand this storied tipple is to head out into the countryside to visit one of its palenques , like Real Minero, which offers guided palenque tours and mezcal tastings by reservation.

These rustic distilleries are nestled among fields of corn and neatly planted rows of agave, a rosette plant with spiny, blue-green leaves that can grow up to 2.5-metres high. In this part of rural Oaxaca, where smoke rises constantly from bubbling clay and copper pots, fourth and fifth-generation mezcaleros and mezcaleras still produce the spirit as their ancestors did 500 years ago.

Three Oaxaca mezcal distilleries to visit

1. Mezcal FaneKantsini

Part of a mezcal cooperative called Tres Colibri, FaneKantsini is headed by master mezcalera   Sosima Olivera Aguilar — part of a growing community of female producers fighting for gender equality in Oaxaca’s male-dominated mezcal industry.  

2. La Candelaria

Located in Santa Catarina Minas, La Candelaria is where Eduardo ‘Lalo’ Angeles produces his acclaimed Mezcal Lalocura, distilled exclusively in clay pots. Espadin, tepeztate and pechuga — the latter a type of mezcal that’s distilled with a raw chicken breast inside it — are usually available for tastings.

3. Gracias a Dios

Santiago Matatlán, dubbed the world capital of mezcal, is where you’ll find Gracias a Dios , a sustainability focused palenque that uses recycled bottles and corks, irrigates 60% of its fields using rainwater, and plants about 5,000 trees a year.

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Episode 95: Scots Travel Guide to Euro 2024 and Lethal Steins?‪!‬ Sofamanager Scottish Football Podcast

We're back after a near 3 year hiatus! Not without purpose, John is off to the Euros! On this weeks show Paul gives some suggestions as to what to do including some train spotting and bobsledding. We also hear about Germany's beer culture and what Scotland fans shouldn't do if they get a little too carried away ... 0:00 Intro 1:55 Off To Germany! 10:00 Travel Tips 14:00 What To Do? 24:50 Civil Service Strollers 27:35 Beer History 36:15 Food For all the latest footballing news and in depth articles: http://www.sofamanager.co.uk/​ https://www.facebook.com/sofamanger/​ https://www.instagram.com/sofamanager/​ https://twitter.com/SofaManagerFC

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