prettiest places to visit scotland

20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

It's easy to find beautiful places to visit in Scotland. With our wild beaches, sparkling lochs and romantic castles, we're often referred to as one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Dunnottar Castle Aberdeenshire

A couple at Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

Dunnottar is one of the most recognisable castles in Scotland. Perched on the cliff edge of the North Sea, it boasts a dramatic and evocative atmosphere with centuries of history. Marvel at the intricate details and amazing condition of the castle, alongside the incredible panoramic views out to sea.

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Bow Fiddle Rock Moray

Bow Fiddle Rock, Portknockie

Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie is a stunning sight to admire as the sun shoots its last rays over the coastline. Hike the trails around the area, find your own secret slice of paradise and keep an eye out for the nesting seabirds, such as herring gulls, great black-backed and lesser black-backed gulls.

Isle of Iona Isle of Iona

Looking across the coast to the jetty on Iona

The Isle of Iona is a small, picturesque island just off the south west coast of Mull. Known for its strong, historic connections to Christianity, explore Iona Abbey or head to the northern coast which has beautiful bays and beaches, boasting the best views out to sea.

Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands North Uist

Camping at Clachan Sands

The Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands on  North Uist  is an impressive stretch of pristine white sands, perfect for a scenic stroll or a picnic on the beach. The crystal-clear waters and shallow bay give the perfect opportunity for snorkelling and swimming. Head for a wander at dusk to enjoy an immaculate sunset.

Bealach na Ba Wester Ross

Bealach na Ba

© @wills_onthehills

The Bealach na Ba is one of the most famous driving routes in Scotland. Known as the Road to Applecross, the route offers epic views out across the whole of Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. With its tight bends and single track, this road isn't for the faint hearted but the views from the top are astonishing.

Loch Ken Galloway Forest Park

Loch Ken, Galloway Forest Park

© VisitScotland / Damian Shields

Located in the south east corner of the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Ken offers walking, cycling, watersports and fishing. Take a stroll around the banks of the loch at sunset and you'll be mesmerised by the landscapes.

Glenfinnan Fort William

Glenfinnan Monument

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Glenfinnan Monument is a striking tribute to those who fought in the Jacobite Risings. Set amid superb Highland scenery at the head of Loch Shiel, it sits opposite the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. A must-see for any amateur photographer or Instagram enthusiast.

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Eoligarry Beach Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach, Isle of Barra

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Eoligarry Beach is an unspoiled white sand beach on the Isle of Barra, the most southerly of the Outer Hebridean islands. Land on the island by plane along the famous Traigh Mhor beach and begin your adventure north to Eoligarry, featuring incredible views out to the islands of Orosay, Fuday and Fiaraidh around you.

An Lochan Uaine Cairngorms National Park

An Lochan Uaine

Legend says that this mysterious loch is green because the local fairies used to wash their clothes in the waters. It might just be due to the trees lying along the loch floor but either way, we think there is something pretty magical about the Green Loch in Glenmore Forest Park, situated in the heart of Cairngorms National Park .

Mealt Falls Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls on the north of Skye is an incredible sight. Partnered with the popular Kilt Rock, together they create a fantastic viewpoint. Take a wander around Mealt Loch, or along the coast and take in the jaw-dropping views for miles around you.

Rannoch Moor Perthshire

A frozen Lochan na h-Achlaise with a snow-capped Black Mount in the background, Rannoch Moor.

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved.

Rannoch Moor is one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe. You'll find grassy moorland, peat bogs, lochs and heather hillocks which all make for striking scenery.

National Wallace Monument Stirling

The Wallace Monument in autumn

Admire the famous National Wallace Monument in Stirling, and the incredible hills behind. Follow the story of Scottish patriot and martyr, Sir William Wallace at this national landmark where you can learn about centuries of history.

Ullapool Wester Ross

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Head to the north west coast of Scotland where you'll come across the quaint fishing village of Ullapool. The town boasts a variety of things to see and do, as well as being a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset or two over the pretty harbour.

St Abb's Scottish Borders

St Abb's is a small fishing village sitting on the Berwickshire coast only an hour south east of Edinburgh. You might recognise the jagged cliffs and old fishermen's cottages from the big screen - Marvel filmed here for the blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame . The town has even been twinned with New Asgard, the fictional village in the movie.

Glen Clova Angus Glens

Corrie Fee, Glen Clova

Glen Clova is a valley with superb views and an abundance of flora and wildlife. It's one of the Angus Glens, a series of tranquil valleys split by single-track roads, offering some of the most majestic landscapes of north east Scotland. It sits between Angus, Perthshire and Aberdeenshire and makes up part of the Cairngorms National Park.

Fingal's Cave Isle of Staffa

Fingals Cave on Staffa Island

This awe-inspiring natural formation will take your breath away. Marvel at the towering basalt columns and intricate rock details of Fingal's Cave as you take a boat tour out to the island and explore the enticing atmosphere of the cave itself. You'll find it off the west coast of Scotland.

Corryvreckan Whirlpool Isle of Jura

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

The Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of the largest permanent whirlpools in the world and one of the most dangerous stretches of water around the British Isles. Take a boat ride out around the islands with a bumpy ride through the whirlpool itself, all in the hands of a very capable and experienced captain. It's located on the Gulf of Corryvreckan, between the isles of Jura and Scarba.

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Walkers on Conic Hill

Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland. Experience peace and quiet, whilst spotting wildlife and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Relax amongst the natural beauty of the lochs and breathe in the air of the hills and awe-inspiring views from each of these summits.

Yesnaby Castle sea stack Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

You can't help but admire the beauty around the Yesnaby Castle sea stacks. Sitting off the west coast of Orkney, this impressive rock formation is a great place to see various sea birds including the oyster catcher.

Tobermory Isle of Mull

A sea plane glides over the multicoloured houses along the pier at Tobermory, with the hills of North Mull over the water in the distance

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

Tobermory is one of the most easily recognisable towns in Scotland, thanks to the brightly coloured houses along the harbour-front. Head to the Isle of Mull where you can experience the magic of this quaint fishing port, which was used as inspiration for the popular children's TV show, Balamory .

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

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

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

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

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

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

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

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

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

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

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

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

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

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

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

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

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

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

Best place for live music and pub culture

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

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

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

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

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

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

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

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

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

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

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

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

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

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

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

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

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

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

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

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

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

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

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

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

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

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

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

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

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

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

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

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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The 10 most beautiful places in Scotland

From dolphin sightings off rugged coasts to glimpses of medieval and modern cities, these are the most dazzling destinations in Scotland

Growing up in Scotland , incredible beauty was so close at hand that I almost took it for granted. It was only when I hit my teens and twenties and started travelling that I began to truly understand why so many tourists – around three million a year – flock to my homeland from all over the world and are endlessly enraptured. It’s pretty uncommon, it turns out, to find a country where you can wake up in an ancient capital city, walk rugged coastline and admire historic engineering wonders, plunge into a misty Highland glen or climb a snow-flecked mountain all in the space of about 24 hours. Capped with a whisky, of course.

Scotland’s finest attractions both natural and manmade are not only abundant and extraordinary but amazingly accessible. At less than 31,000 square miles, Scotland is smaller than most American states and you can drive coast to coast in less than a day. And yet it packs in so much, from sweeping lochs and peatlands to sleepy fishing villages, cities steeped in culture, mountains stacked on mountains and castles enough to give you castle fatigue. Finding beauty in Scotland isn’t a case of where to look, so much as where to start. Here’s my pick of the most beautiful places in Scotland. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏩The best Airbnbs in the Scottish Highlands 🎭The best things to do in Glasgow 🌲The best road trips in the UK 🏞️The most breathtaking hikes in the UK 🌤️The best places to visit in the UK

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

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The most beautiful places in Scotland

1.  Edinburgh Old Town

Best for: Getting to the heart of Scottish urban history

Scotland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe , but for centuries people have clustered themselves so tightly into the medieval heart of Edinburgh that they literally built things on top of one another. Hugging a sloping slab of craggy volcanic rock, Edinburgh’s Old Town is a magical mystery tour through Scottish urban history, stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile down to Holyrood Palace at its foot. Among its warren of cobbled streets and narrow closes, wynds and terraces, you’ll discover traces of a subterranean city beneath a city, sudden sweeping views of the Auld Reekie skyline, and some classic hidden pubs . 

📍 Need more reasons to go to Edinburgh? Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Edinburgh Fringe . 

2.  Fingal’s Cave

Best for: Marvelling at the raw power of nature

‘The mighty surge that ebbs and swells,’ runs a line of a poem by Sir Walter Scott inspired by an 1810 visit to Fingal’s Cave on the Inner Hebridean island of Staffa, and the roar of the sea amplified by the cathedral-like enclosure. The 60-million-year-old geological wonder has inspired centuries of poetry, music, writing, painting and filmmaking. Accessible on foot over broken pillars of rock, or by boat when conditions are a bit fairer, Fingal’s Cave is an assault on the senses. Deep darkness is hit by shards of light from the sea,  kaleidoscopic colours surround you and  sound reverberates around the walls and ceiling. Nature’s symphony, you could say, happens here, when air is sucked in and blasted out of the cave by the wind and the waves, creating rumbles and booms. Yes, it’s as poetic as it sounds. 

3.  Crail Harbour

Best for: Grabbing some fresh crab

Among a string of sleepy old fishing villages and towns along the coast of Fife’s East Neuk, Crail has to be the prettiest. Thanks not least to its picture-postcard perfect harbour – a crescent of time-and-tide washed sandstone set beneath steep cliffs, sheltering a small fleet of boats and weathered fishing creels stacked along the piers. Gorgeous old stepped-gabled cottages jut out of the hillside above at severe angles. While the harbour is nowhere near as active as it was in its late 19 th century Herring boom heyday, a handful of fishing vessels still operate, landing live lobster and crab which you can buy fresh off the boat from an iconic old harbourside shack, Reilly Shellfish . 

4.  The Cairnwell Pass

Best for: Taking the high road

Stretching from Glen Shee, Perthshire past the mountain ski resort of the same name to the enchanting Victorian village of Braemar, Aberdeenshire, The Cairnwell Pass is the highest main road in the UK and the southern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park. The drive up – which can also be walked or cycled if you’re feeling fit enough – is literally breathtaking; the land suddenly sweeps sharply upward, and before you know it, you’re hundreds of metres above sea level gazing back down at the glen below. The sudden feeling of transition is profound and overwhelming – a true moment of arrival to the Scottish Highlands. Coming back down at speed makes your ears pop. Truly invigorating stuff. 

5.  V&A Dundee

Best for: A glimpse of modern Scotland

The first design museum in Scotland and the first Victoria and Albert museum outside of London has brought fascinating exhibitions on everything from video games to tartan to the City of Discovery. But you don’t even need to enter Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s dramatic jagged building, inspired by the cliff edges of eastern Scotland, to experience its impact. Juxtaposed with the famous Dundee-built arctic explorer steamship RRS Discovery moored on the Tay next door, the V&A has helped re-shape and revitalise the entire city’s entire waterfront and provides an inspiring glimpse of a Scotland that seizes its future as well as celebrates its past. Sip a summertime beer by the sea at the pop-up outdoor café and you could be anywhere from Copenhagen to New York .

6.  The Small Isles

Best for: Dolphin spotting

Almost as famous as its Highlands are Scotland’s islands , many of the most beautiful of which are to be found off the west coast among the Hebridean Archipelago. While the larger islands of Harris and Lewis, Skye and Mull might attract the most tourists, the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides – Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum – offer up something different. Our favourite? The most populous small Isle, Eigg. H ome to only around 100 people, Eigg is a fascinating experiment in community ownership and sustainable living, and it’s got a stunning beach in the Singing Sands. Rum is a National Nature Reserve, while Canna (with a population only 15) has spectacular cliffs and archaeological sites. If you’re lucky, you can spot seals, dolphins and even whales onboard the ferry there. 

7.  Loch Katrine

Best for: A legendary cruise

It might be dwarfed by the far larger Loch Ness and nearby Loch Lomond, but for an unforgettable experience on and around one of Scotland’s countless famous bodies of inland water, the legendary Loch Katrine in the Trossachs can’t be beaten. This is a mystical, atmospheric spot, completely removed from the outside world and surrounded by huge mountains. So beautiful, in fact, it inspired  Sir Walter Scott’s poem ‘The Lady of the Lake’ and Gioachino Rossini’s opera ‘ La donna del lago’ . 

Badboy hero of Scots folklore Rob Roy MacGregor was born on the loch’s northern shore, and it’s served as as reservoir to the city of Glasgow 30 miles to the south for over 150 years (the still functioning Victorian waterworks are an engineering masterpiece) . There’s still functioning Victorian waterworks to admire, and you can you can hop on a cruise ship adjacent to the  SS Sir Walter Scott steamboat (yes, there’s a bar on board). Or simply walk or cycle a paved path along the northern shore.

8.  Dunnottar Castle

Best for: The crown jewel of Scottish castles

Big ones, small ones, ruined ones, living ones – Scotland has castles to suit every requirement. More than 1,500 in total, spanning over a thousand years in age. Of course, the most beautiful is a matter of taste, but Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire near Stonehaven has to be up there. Built in the 15 th and 16 th centuries, the ruins gaze out at the North Sea from a 160-foot rocky outcrop ringed by cliffs, once the stronghold for one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Earls Marischal, until they lost their titles in the failed 1715 Jacobite rebellion. The Scottish crown jewels were famously hidden here from Oliver Cromwell's invading army in the 17 th century, and exploring Dunnottar’s remains with panoramic sea views is a seriously romantic experience.

9.  Ben Nevis

Best for: The highest of Highland highs

If you’re going to climb a Scottish mountain, might as well make it the biggest of the lot, right? And at 4,411 feet, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in Britain, and is always to be taken seriously – check the weather forecast well in advance before setting out, pack sensibly and wear strong footwear. But know that you don’t have to be a highly seasoned mountaineer to bag this Munro (as Scotland’s 282 mountains over 3,000 feet are known). It’s a relatively straightforward climb if you’re quite fit. Budget for about six to nine hours in all and set off nice and early to give yourself plenty of good daylight at the rocky summit. On a clear day, you’ll get 360° panoramic vistas stretching as far as Northern Ireland. In other words, it’s worth it. 

10.  The Flow Country

Best for: Splendid isolation

You can travel for miles across the barren far north of Scotland in Caithness and Sutherland and scarcely see another living soul or a trace of human habitation. The feeling of isolation is awe-inspiring, like a private audience with vast mountains and plains. A nd yet, the Flow Country as it’s known – the most extensive bog in the world, stretching over 1,500 square miles – will play a crucial role in the future of mankind. The soggy peatlands, formed of the remains of plants, store enormous quantities of carbon for thousands of years. Keeping them alive and healthy is essential in the fight against global warming. A decades-long quest for UNESCO World Heritage status and protection is hoped to be completed in 2024.

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27 Most Beautiful Places in Scotland For Your Bucket List

Scotland is a country that boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From rugged mountains to pristine beaches, there is no shortage of stunning scenery to explore. If you’re planning a trip, make sure you don’t miss out on visiting some of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

We’ve travelled extensively around the country, so here are our tips for the top spots to visit.

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Scotland

Scotland is one of the most scenic places on earth. Make time to visit some of the highlands and islands as well as the cities during your Scottish trip. You’ll be rewarded with some breathtakingly beautiful views and fantastic travel experiences.

One of the most iconic destinations in Scotland is the Isle of Skye. This rugged island is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, including the famous Cuillin mountain range and the stunning Fairy Pools. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to take in some stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye is not to be missed.

Another must-see destination in Scotland is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This expansive park is home to some of the most beautiful lakes and forests in the country, as well as a wealth of wildlife. Whether you’re looking to hike, cycle, or simply take a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of trails to explore in this stunning national park.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a beautiful city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. There are many things to see and do in Edinburgh , from visiting historic landmarks to exploring the city’s many museums and galleries. You’ll also find fun floating hotels such as Fingal and the Four Sisters Boatel .

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to explore the city’s many attractions, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh. Read our suggestions of where to eat in Edinburgh if you’re planning a trip there.

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. The castle sits atop a hill in the heart of the city, and it has been a royal residence for centuries. Today, it is home to museums, exhibitions, and events, and it offers stunning views of the city below.

2. Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a historic street that runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It is lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, and it is a great place to explore on foot.

The street is home to many historic landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

3. Dean Village

Dean Village is a picturesque neighborhood located just a short walk from Edinburgh city center. The area is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and stunning views of the Water of Leith. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Fort William, Scottish Highlands

If you’re looking for stunning natural beauty, the Highlands of Scotland are an absolute must-visit. From towering mountains to serene lochs, this region is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. For hikers, nature lovers and photographers this stunning Scottish region is a must-visit.

Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, Fort William is a charming town that serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding area. With its picturesque streets and stunning views of the mountains, it’s easy to see why this town is a popular destination for visitors to the Highlands.

5. Ben Nevis

Standing at 1,345 meters (4,411 feet) tall, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. Hiking to this West Higland summit is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Without a doubt, Ben Nevis is one of the best places to visit in Scotland.

6. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Fans of the Harry Potter films will recognize the Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct as the location of the Hogwarts Express train journey. The Jacobite steam train travels over the scenic Scottish landmark and the journey finishes in the small harbour town of Mallaig.

Even if you’re not a Potterhead, this iconic railway bridge is worth a visit for its stunning scenery.

7. Loch Ness

No trip to the Highlands would be complete without a visit to Loch Ness, home of the legendary Nessie. Whether or not you believe in the Loch Ness Monster, the lake itself is a beautiful sight to behold.

Some of the best views of Loch Ness are from Suidhe Viewpoint, Urquhart Castle and Dores Beach. If you’re feeling energetic, the Loch Ness 360° Trail spans 80 miles and covers the entire circumference of the lake.

8. Glen Coe

Also known as Glencoe, this valley in Western Scotland is surrounded by towering mountains that has been featured in many films, including Skyfall and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. It’s a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in the Highlands.

Bidean Nam Bian is a mountain range located in Glen Coe. With its jagged peaks and rugged terrain, it’s a challenging but rewarding destination for experienced hikers.

9. Isle of Skye

Scotland is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Each island has its own unique charm, making them all worth visiting.

The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular destinations in Scotland. Known for its rugged landscapes and stunning scenery, the island is a must-visit for anyone interested in nature.

The island is home to many beautiful sights, including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Fairy Pools, and the Cuillin Mountains. There are also some great whisky distilleries including Talisker, the only single malt distillery on the island.

10. Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides

The Isle of Mull is located in the Inner Hebrides, a group of islands located off the west coast of Scotland. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture.

Mull is one of the most popular islands in Scotland, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Some of the most interesting sights on the island include the Isle of Mull Railway, the Tobermory Distillery, and the beautiful beaches of Calgary Bay.

11. Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona is a small island located off the west coast of Scotland. The island is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular sights on the island include Iona Abbey, St. Oran’s Chapel, and the white sandy beaches.

12. Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands are a group of islands located off the north coast of Scotland. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Some of the most popular islands in the Orkney Islands include Mainland, Hoy, and Rousay.

13. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Scotland is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and its national parks are no exception. Located just a short drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Scotland.

The park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including the famous Loch Lomond, which is the largest freshwater lake in the UK. There is also a wide range of wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and ospreys.

You’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy at this scenic spot in Scotland, including hiking, cycling, and water sports.

14. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, covering an area of over 4,500 square kilometers. It boasts some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Scotland, including the Cairngorms mountain range, which is the highest in the UK.

Visitors can spot wildlife such as red squirrels, pine martens and golden eagles. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the park, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

15. Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene. It is home to many beautiful places that are worth visiting.

Glasgow Cathedral, also known as St. Mungo’s Cathedral, is a medieval church located in the heart of Glasgow. It is one of the oldest buildings in Glasgow, with parts of it dating back to the 12th century.

This beautiful Scottish landmark is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, with soaring arches, intricate stonework, and stunning stained glass windows.

One of the highlights of Glasgow Cathedral is the crypt, which houses the tomb of St. Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow. The crypt is a peaceful and serene space that provides a glimpse into the cathedral’s rich history.

16. Kelvingrove Art Gallery

Kelvingrove Art Gallery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Glasgow. It is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by some of the most famous artists in history.

The gallery is housed in a stunning Victorian building that was opened in 1901. It features an impressive array of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

One of the most famous works on display at Kelvingrove is “Christ of St. John of the Cross” by iconic painter Salvador Dali. This is considered one of the greatest religious paintings of the 20th century.

In addition to its art collection, Kelvingrove also features a natural history section, which includes exhibits on animals, plants, and geology. The museum is a great place to learn about the natural world and the history of Glasgow.

17. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is a historic fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the city of Stirling. The castle has played an important role in Scottish history, and it was the site of several important battles, including the Battle of Stirling Bridge and the Battle of Bannockburn.

Today, visitors can tour the ancient castle and learn about its history. Stay nearby at stunning Cromlix House Hotel for a relaxing getaway.

18. St Andrews

St Andrews is a charming coastal town that is famous for its golf courses and its university. The town is also home to several historic sites, including the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and St Andrews Castle.

Take time to explore the town’s narrow streets and enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea.

19. Bow Fiddle Rock

Bow Fiddle Rock is a natural rock formation that is located on the coast of Moray , and one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. The rock gets its name from its shape, which resembles a violin bow. Visitors can enjoy the sweeping views of the rock and the surrounding coastline.

20. Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined fortress that sits atop a cliff overlooking the North Sea. The castle has a rich history and was the site of several important events, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots.

A tour of the castle will give you insights into its fascinating history. From the top, you have the most stunning coastline views.

21. River Clyde

The River Clyde is a major river that flows through Glasgow and into the Firth of Clyde. The river is an important part of Glasgow’s history, and visitors can take a boat tour to learn about the city’s industrial past.

22. Loch Ken

Loch Ken is a freshwater loch that is located in Dumfries and Galloway. The loch is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

23. Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides

The Isle of Lewis is the largest island in the Outer Hebrides and is home to many beautiful sights, including the Callanish Stones, the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, and the beautiful beaches of Uig.

Eoligarry Beach is a beautiful white sand beach that is located on the Isle of Barra. The beach is surrounded by stunning scenery, and visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including swimming, surfing, and kayaking.

24. Isle of Harris

The Isle of Harris is known for its stunning beaches and rugged landscapes. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland, including Luskentyre Beach, Scarista Beach and Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands.

The latter is known for its crystal-clear waters and its stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including swimming, surfing, and kayaking.

25. Rannoch Moor

Rannoch Moor is an expanse of around 50 square miles of moorland in the Highlands of Scotland. It is located to the west of Loch Rannoch.

The moor has a bleak, remote beauty and is popular with hikers and climbers, especially in summer. Virtually uninhabited, it provides an important habitat for wildlife including red deer, grouse, golden eagles and hen harriers.

Rannoch Moor featured in the Harry Potter film Deathly Hallows Part 1 as the location where the Death Eaters board the Hogwarts Express. The moor has also inspired many artists and writers with its wild, melancholy landscape.

26. Loch Shiel

Another Harry Potter filming location is Loch Shiel, which features as the Black Lake in the Prisoner of Azkaban. With its glistening waters reflecting the rugged mountains around it, this unspoiled beauty is a picture-perfect Highland loch.

This beautiful loch stretches over 20 miles, ringed by scenic woodlands and the imposing peaks of Glenfinnan to the east. The striking sight of the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the loch’s head has made it a great place to visit

27. Eilean Donan Castle

This picturesque castle is located on a small tidal island where three lochs meet – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh – in the western Highlands of Scotland. An iconic Scottish landmark, Eilean Donan was established in the 13th century as a defensive stronghold for the Mackenzies and other clans.

Today Eilean Donan is one of the most recognized castles in Scotland and a hugely popular tourist attraction, drawing over 300,000 visitors a year.

It is renowned for its picturesque location on an island linked to the mainland by a stone arched bridge. The castle has featured in several films including Highlander and James Bond: The World is Not Enough.

Final Thoughts on the Most Beautiful Places in Scotland

Overall, Scotland is home to many beautiful locations that are worth visiting. In addition to the popular tourist destinations, there are also some lesser-known areas that are equally stunning. You’ll be spoilt for choice when planning a trip to Scotland.

• Edinburgh Boatel – A Floating Scottish Hotel

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

The 25 Prettiest Villages in Scotland You Must Visit + Map

From Isle of Harris and Lewis to Dumfries and Galloway, Perthshire to Isle of Skye , Scotland has a variety of scenic villages dotted all around the country.

Although Scotland is probably best known for its dramatic  castles , serene lochs, rugged mountains and whisky, there are also some insanely charming villages in Scotland to visit. 

These villages are perfect for escaping the urban chaos and embracing a slower pace of life, where locals gather in traditional pubs and cosy cafes. 

Small villages are always a great choice if you want to get a real taste of a country and experience it more like a local.

Each of them is unique on its own.  St Abbs   in Scottish Borders draws film crews from Hollywood, while  Braemar   in Aberdeenshire has royal connections. 

Many of the villages are in the most beautiful parts of Scotland . So there will be plenty of things to do in the local area. They also make a perfect base for exploring the Scottish countryside. 

A few of the villages mentioned in this article are easily accessible on a day trip from  Edinburgh  and  Glasgow .

We’ve rounded up the 25 prettiest villages in Scotland with dreamy views. This article talks about what’s unique about them, things to see and do, how to reach there by public transport and driving distance and time.

📖 Read More: 25 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland You Must Visit

Best Fishing Villages in Scotland

1. plockton, wester ross.

Close your eyes and picture the perfect Scottish village in your mind. Chances are it will most likely look like Plockton .

Tucked away on the pristine coastline of Loch Carron in North West Scotland, Plockton is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind .

Known as The Jewel of the Highlands, this small village is famous for its awe-inspiring landscapes, milder climate and appearance in the Scottish drama series – Hamish Macbeth.

📖 Read More: One Day in Plockton, 16 Amazing Things to Do

Also, Plockton is just a few miles away from the famous Isle of Skye , one of the most visited places in Scotland.  

In its heydays, in the era of ‘The Herring Boom’, Plockton was a major haven for sourcing herring, which made it rise to its prosperity.

The main village street is lined with traditional whitewashed houses and the prettiest gardens against the spectacular backdrop of the loch and the mountains from the Applecross peninsula.

You can take a wildlife boat tour to spot seals, otters, dolphins, porpoises and numerous sea birds. There are a few pubs and restaurants along the promenade.

How to Reach : 🚂 Plockton train station sits on the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway line.

🚗 From Portree, 1 hour / 40 miles.

2. Cullen, Moray Firth

Once a bustling fishing port, Cullen is renowned as the birthplace of the famous traditional Scottish dish, Cullen Skink – a delicious thick soup made of smoked haddock, potato and milk.  

Nestled on a sheltered bay on the coast of Moray Firth, this idyllic village has a dramatic coastline, stunning sandy beach, an imposing victorian railway viaduct and a cosy small harbour.  

You could easily visit Cullen on a day trip from Inverness and Aberdeen.

📖 Read More: 17 Incredible Things to Do in Cullen, Moray Firth

The lovely Cullen Beach attracts a lot of visitors during the summer months. Moray Firth is famous for the bottle-nosed dolphins. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the dolphins jumping and playing in the sea.  

The bustling main street has a few antique shops, a busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants. Taste a bowl of delicious Cullen Skink at Rockpool Café and the Cullen Bay Hotel.

You can hike to the neighbouring village Portknockie to see the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock – one of the most dramatic rock formations in Northeast Scotland.

How to Reach : 🚌 Ride Stagecoach bus service 35 from Aberdeen and Elgin.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 25 minutes / 55 miles.

From Inverness, 1 hour 30 minutes / 59 miles

3. St Abbs, Scottish Borders

Recently featured in the superhero movie Avengers: Endgame, as the fictional place of New Asgard, this sleepy village is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

St Abbs is a picturesque small fishing village on the Berwickshire Coast in East Scotland.

It is well-known for its rugged coastline and rich wildlife and is one of Scotland’s best scuba diving places.

📖 Read More: 12 Best Things to Do in St Abbs, Scottish Borders

The walking trail to the St Abb’s Head Nature Reserve is quite popular with hikers. Around 60,000 birds nest in the high cliffs here.  

The volcanic clifftops, scenic sea stacks, abundance of wildflowers and butterflies, a photogenic lighthouse and the uninterrupted view over to the North Sea will completely blow your mind away.

One of the main highlights of this village is the small harbour. You would see local fishing and tour boats carrying tourists and divers. The nearby rocky shores are great for rock pooling. Devour some delicious crab sandwiches from the cafe on the harbour.

How to Reach : 🚂 Ride a train to Berwick upon Tweed from Edinburgh and then catch a bus 235 from there.  

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour / 47 miles.

4. Crail, Fife

Nestled in East Neuk of Fife, Crail is one of the loveliest fishing villages in Scotland, with an eye-catching harbour and charming houses with pantile roofs. 

Crail falls on the famous Fife Coastal Path, a long-distance walking route of 116 miles that runs from Kincardine on the River Forth Estuary to Newburgh on the River Tay Estuary along the coast of Fife.

From the centre of the village, take a ramble down the cobbled streets to reach the harbour. You will find many creel boats moored there. If you fancy feasting on freshly caught lobsters and dressed crabs, pop by at Lobster Hut on the harbour. They are usually open every day in summer.

Also, stop by Crail Harbour Gallery & Tea Room and enjoy beautiful paintings by a local artist. You will also get a stunning view out to the Firth of Forth. They serve hot beverages and light bites.

At the centre of the village, step inside the family-run Crail Pottery. You will find a wide variety of beautifully decorated handmade earthenware to buy.

How to Reach: Catch Stagecoach bus services 95 from Leven to St Andrews.

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour 30 min / 54 miles.

5. Crovie, Aberdeenshire

With a neatly arranged single row of houses on the North Sea coast underneath an imposing cliff, Crovie has one of the most dramatic settings among the villages in Scotland .

The history of this tiny well-preserved fishing hamlet dates back to the 18th century.

Very frequently, the sea sprays lash against the narrow ledge in front of the whitewashed houses. Some of those cottages offer holiday accommodation if you fancy a stay.

This village is only accessible via steep steps that descend the cliff to the seafront. So, if you are coming by car, you cannot simply drive through the village. You will have to leave your vehicle at the clifftop car park and walk down the wooden stairs.

Ony 10 minutes’ walk from Crovie is Gardenstown, another picturesque fishing settlement. Also, Troup Head in the east is a popular place for birdwatching. It has the largest gannet colony on mainland Scotland.

How to reach : Catch bus service 273 from Banff.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 5 minutes/ 45 miles.

6. St Monans, East Neuk

St Monans is a stunning traditional fishing village in East Neuk of Fife and a jewel on the jagged coastline of the Firth of Forth in Scotland. This pretty harbour-front village is the smallest of the series of fishing ports dotted along the coast of East Neuk.

Around the cosy harbour huddle a charming blend of whitewashed and colourful houses with crow-stepped gables – possibly a Dutch influence.  

It gets very photogenic at high tide with the wild churning waves pounding on the breakwater – super atmospheric!  

Don’t miss a visit to the photogenic St Monans Windmill and St Monans Parish Church. The church is one of the oldest medieval churches in Scotland.

Being on the Fife coastal path, this former fishing and boat-building village is very popular with walkers. Along the coast, you would find the ruins of Newark Castle, a beehive dovecot, a seaside church, salt pans – a reminder of its salt-producing past, and a windmill spinning its arms in an idyllic setting.

How to Reach : 🚌 You can catch a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven.

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour 15 min / 48 miles.  

From St Andrews, 20 min / 13 miles.

Best Coastal and Lochside Villages in Scotland

7. luss, loch lomond.

Perfectly positioned on the western shore of bonnie Loch Lomond , Luss is often regarded as one of the prettiest Scottish villages.

Just 45 minutes drive from Glasgow , this place is an ideal day-trip destination from there.

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Luss to make you fall in love with this village.

📖 Read More: 10 Epic Things to Do in Luss, Loch Lomond

Admire the row of quaint stone cottages lined with beautiful small gardens and floral displays. They look gorgeous in full bloom during the summer months.

The small beach near the pier is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming in summer.

Take a stroll along the wooden pier to get a stunning view of the loch and the towering Ben Lomond on the other side of the loch.

You can take a relaxing boat tour to get a chance to see the numerous tiny islands on the Loch Lomond closely. Also, you can visit other villages on the banks of Loch Lomond – Balloch, Balmaha, Tarbet and Rowerdennan.

How to Reach : Hop on a Citylink bus service from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station.

🚗 From Glasgow, 45 minutes / 26 miles.

8. Elgol, Isle of Skye

With only a few clusters of whitewashed cottages on the shore of Loch Scavaig on the Isle of Skye , Elgol is a remote Scottish village offering one of the best views of the magnificent Cuillin ranges.

A hidden gem on Skye, Elgol has some great walking opportunities, including the coastal walk to Loch Coruisk. Also, you can explore Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Cave, where he hid after the defeat of the Jacobites in the mid-18th century.  

📖 Read More: How to Spend a Day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk

The boat services to Loch Coruisk and the wildlife trips depart from the village harbour.

Lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin, Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking freshwater loch on the Isle of Skye. The loch is also accessible by a long and strenuous walk from Sligachan and Elgol.  

Legend has it that it was once the home to the Kelpies – mythical water horses in Scottish folklore.

The famous Scottish folk song ‘The Skye Boat Song’ originated in Loch Coruisk, getting inspired by a Gaelic version sung by the local rowers.

📖 Read More: 25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye: Detailed Guide+ Map

How to Reach : 🚎 Stagecoach runs bus service 55 from Broadford to Elgol a few times a day on weekdays and Schooldays.

🚗 From Broadford, 30 min/ 14 miles.

9. Fort Augustus, Scottish Highlands

Just an hour’s drive from the Scottish city of Inverness, you will find the tiny hamlet of Fort Augustus on the impressive Caledonian Canal.

Halfway between two large settlements of Scotland – Fort William and Inverness, this village lies at the southern end of Loch Ness, the largest freshwater lake by volume in the UK and home to the celebrity monster, Nessie.  

📖 Read More: Epic Things to do in Fort William

This small village has many beautiful things to do and explore for all. You can pop inside the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre and learn local history, cruise into Loch Ness, walk or cycle around the area and enjoy the breathtaking view of Loch Ness.

The magnificent Urquhart Castle is not too far from here. It is one of the largest ruined castles in Scotland and holds thousands of years of history.

If you are a serious hiker, you might be interested in the Great Glen Way, a long-distance walking trail between Fort William and Inverness, which runs through this Scottish village.

How to Reach : 🚎 Citylink bus from Inverness to Fort William stops here.

🚗 From Inverness, 55 min / 34 miles.

From Four William, 45 min / 32 miles.

10. Applecross, Wester Ross

Applecross is an incredibly stunning small village in a peninsula with the same name in the Wester Ross part of Scotland . It is a must-visit place on the North Coast 500 route, one of Scotland’s most scenic driving routes.

Take a walk to the Applecross Bay near Applecross Heritage Centre. You will get a stunning view over to the Isle of Raasay, Rona and the Isle of Skye . You might spot a herd of red deer strolling on the beach.

Also, step inside the heritage centre and discover the local history.

Applecross Inn on the village seafront is an excellent place to tuck into locally sourced delicious seafood. If you are in a hurry, grab some food from the takeaway truck opposite the inn.

If you came to Applecross via the road that runs along the shore of Loch Torridon, then make sure you head back through Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle) – one of the highest and most picturesque mountain-passes in the whole of Britain.

How to Reach: From Inverness, 2 hours / 80 miles.

11. Lochranza, Isle of Arran

Lochranza sits in the northernmost part of the beautiful Isle of Arran. The village is named after a sea loch called Loch Ranza.

This cute village has a ruined lochside castle, a distillery, and a field centre for the Geology enthusiasts.

The incredible scenic beauty of Lochranza has inspired one of Scotland’s renowned novelists Sir Walter Scott in the poem The Lord of the Isles.

You might spot a herd of red deers roaming freely around the village. It is a perfect blissful spot to commune with nature. There are a few hiking trails nearby.  

Also, pop inside The Sandwich Station near the ferry terminal for some delicious freshly baked artisan sourdough bread sandwiches and cakes.

Another thing we really like about Lochranza is that it is less touristy than other areas in Arran.  

How to Reach : 🚎 The Stagecoach bus service 324 from Brodick to Blackwaterfoot stops here.

🚗 From Brodick, 30 min / 14 miles.

12. Shieldaig, Wester Ross

Shieldaig is a hidden gem tucked away on the shore of Loch Torridon in Northwest Scottish Highlands. Mostly whitewashed cottages along the shore of the loch make this coastal village very photogenic. 

You will find a rocky outcrop just about a quarter-mile off the coast. That’s Shielding Island with a dense population of Scots Pine.

Shieldaig was established in 1800 to train local people ready for battle in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars. Later it turned into a fishing hamlet. 

In Gaelic, Shieldaig means ‘Herring Bay’. Now, this village largely relies on tourism. It has a small population of about 100 permanent residents.

Shieldaig is one of those places where you don’t have much to do apart from soaking up the breathtaking view. There are a couple of hotels, pubs and restaurants here.

Also, explore the nearby Torridon at the foothill of Torridon Hills. It’s just 15 minutes drive from Shieldaig.

How to Reach:   From Inverness, 1 hour 30 min / 68 miles.

13. Portpatrick, Dumfries and Galloway

Located on the Irish Sea coast of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland, the village of Portpatrick was once the main port for bringing goods to Ireland, which is only 21 miles from here.

Once compared with Gretna Green, many young couples from Northern Ireland would come here to get hitched.

There are quite a few restaurants, shops and pubs along the seafront. Take a ramble around the village. Take a look inside the historic ruins of the old parish church.

Follow the coastal path to visit the nearby picturesque ruins of Dunskey Castle. The hike offers a gorgeous view of the sea, beaches and clifftops. You can also walk to the north to see the Killantringan Lighthouse.

If you are in this part of Scotland, don’t miss a visit to the Mull of Galloway, the southernmost point of Scotland.

Also, the long-distance walking trail Southern Upland Way starts from here.

How to Reach : 🚎 Catch bus services 367 and 411 from Stranraer.

🚗 From Dumfries, 1 hour 40 min / 76 miles.

14. Dornie, Kintail

Located within a short walking distance from Eilean Donan Castle – one of the most famous castles in Scotland, Dornie is often overlooked by tourists visiting the castle. The village is only a few minutes by car from Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to the Isle of Skye . 

Nestled in the meeting point of Loch Long, Loch Duich and Loch Alsh, the village has a natural scenic setting.

Aside from exploring the castle, this former fishing village is a great place to roam around. You will find a row of houses, whitewashed and some with colours creating a nice contrast. 

Don’t miss the viewpoint near the Dornie Community Hall on the other side of the road bridge over Loch Long. You will have a fabulous view of the castle with the impressive mountains of Kintail in the backdrop.

How to Reach:  🚎 The Scottish Citylink bus from Portree to Glasgow or Inverness stops near Dornie.

🚗 From Kyle of Lochalsh, 15 min / 9 miles.

Best Villages in Scotland for Mountains and Hikes

15. braemar, aberdeenshire.

Located deep in the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is truly a beautiful village in Scotland, where you can immerse in the wilderness, escaping the hustle-bustle of city life.

Surrounded by the Grampian Mountains and the River Dee, Braemar is one of the coldest places in Scotland and sits at an elevation of 339 metres above sea level.

It hosts the famous Braemar Gathering and Highland Games every year, which is attended frequently by Her Majesty the Queen and the other members of the British Royal Family.

📖 Read More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Braemar, Cairngorms National Park

The rustic charm of this scenic Scottish village has attracted visitors over the centuries.  

There are plenty of walking, hiking and fishing opportunities around this area.

Aside from the majestic scenery, it has an abundance of wildlife, especially red deer and red squirrels. Just keep your eyes peeled out.

Constructed in the 17th century by the Earl of Mar as a hunting lodge, Braemar Castle has a turbulent highland history of over 400 years.

Balmoral Castle, the Royal Residence in the Scottish countryside, lies about 9 miles east of Braemar.  

How to Reach : 🚎 Stagecoach Bus service 201 runs daily between Aberdeen and Braemar.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 25 minutes/ 56 miles.

From Dundee, 1 hour 25 minutes / 52 miles.

16. Glencoe, Lochaber

With a population of just around four hundred people, Glencoe is a little village on the shore of Loch Leven in the Scottish Highlands. It is only 25 minutes drive from Fort William .

Visit the Massacre of Glencoe Monument – a memorial erected to the infamous Massacre of Glencoe. It took place on the night of 12th February in 1692.  

Almost 40 members of Clan MacDonald of Glencoe were murdered by the government forces under the command of Archibald Campbell, 10th Earl and 1st Duke of Argyll, for failing to meet the deadline of swearing allegiance to King William III.

Take a look inside the thatched roof Glencoe Folk Museum. This village has rich wildlife as well. Watch out for red deer and golden eagles. They are seen here frequently.

Glencoe Lochan, an idyllic place for a family-friendly walk, lies within a short walk from this village.

Keen hikers can climb the Pap of Glencoe, which looms large over this village. This 742-metre high mountain has a strikingly conical shape.

How to Reach : 🚎 Citylink and local Shield Buses N44 give a stop in Glencoe.

🚗 From Fort William, 25 min / 16 miles.

17. Killin, Perthshire

Located at the western end of Loch Tay, Killin is a stunningly attractive Scottish village in Perthshire. This charming settlement at the foothill of Breadalbane mountains is one of the best villages in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts. 

It offers plenty of scenic walking opportunities. Wander around the magnificent Falls of Dochart and visit the burial place of Clan Macnab. 

One of the most scenic walks around Killin is Sròn a’Chlachain. It is a steep hill walk of about 2 miles with an ascent of around 400 metres. From the summit, the view is absolutely breathtaking. You can admire the stunning panoramic views of Loch Tay and the surrounding mountains.

Loch Tay is famous for salmon fishing. You can hire a fishing boat or take a guided fishing adventure tour from Loch Tay Fish ‘n’ Trips. 

If you are a fan of water sports, you will enjoy high-speed rib boat tours over the lake. Afterwards, visit the ruins of Finlarig Castle nearby. It was once a stronghold of Clan Campbell.

This village has quite a few nice cafes and restaurants. Falls of Dochart Inn is a lovely dog-friendly place to eat and drink with a beautiful view.

How to Reach:  From Callander, catch the C60 bus.

🚗 From Glasgow, 1 hour 20 min/ 62 miles.

18. Comrie, Perthshire

Winner of the Britain in Bloom Award in previous years, Comrie lies in the West Strathearn part of Perthshire. Comrie offers fabulous walking opportunities, having an abundance of big trees and woodlands in and around.

The Deil’s Cauldron and the Melville Monument Trail is a quite popular nature trail that starts at the centre of this Scottish village. This circular walk takes about 2 – 3 hours. We did this in autumn, and it was stunningly beautiful with a dazzling display of colours. The water of Ruchill and Cultybraggan is another scenic walk in Comrie.

If you are into geology, you would be interested to know that Comrie has more earth tremors than anywhere else in the UK due to its location on the Highland Boundary Fault. Actually, one of the first seismometers in the world was installed in Comrie around the mid-19th century.

This picturesque village of Scotland hosts a few cosy events like Comrie Fortnight in Summer and Flambeaux – torchlight parade during the Hogmanay celebration on New Year’s Eve.

Lastly, don’t miss Drummond Castle, famous for its enchanting garden. You can reach here just in 20 minutes by car from Comrie. The castle garden is usually open to visitors from June to October. 

How to Reach:  Ride Stagecoach bus number 15 from Perth.

🚗 From Perth 50 min / 25 miles.

Best Historical and Cultural Villages in Scotland

19. culross, fife.

Have you ever been to a place where you feel like you have stepped back in time? Nestled on the coast of the Firth of Forth, the Royal Burgh of Culross is one of those places.  

Founded in the 6th century by Saint Serf, it is one of the best-preserved historic villages in Scotland.

Wander around the cobbled streets lined with the 16th and 17th century whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs. Take a tour of the brightly yellow-orange coloured Culross Palace.  

Established in the 17th century by a wealthy merchant, the house has painted ceilings and passageways connecting the small rooms.

You will get a lovely panoramic view from the top of the palace garden. Also, explore the nearby ruins of Culross Abbey.

In recent years, the popular TV series, Outlander has brought this village on the tourist map. You can easily visit Culross on a day trip from Glasgow and Edinburgh .

How to Reach : From Edinburgh, catch a bus or train to Dunfermline. Next, jump onto the Stagecoach bus 8, 8A to Culross.

🚗 From Edinburgh 40 minutes/ 24 miles.

20. Wanlockhead, Dumfries and Galloway

The former mining village of Wanlockhead sits high in the Lowther Hills at an elevation of around 1,531 ft. It is the highest village in Scotland.  

The main tourist attraction of Wanlockhead is The Museum of Lead Mining. Take a guided tour to learn about this area’s industrial past. Also, you can go down to take a look inside a former working mine.  

Meander around the village to admire the stunning scenery of the cottages and the surrounding mountains. You will find several pieces of machinery used in mining scattered around Wanlock Water.

You can also go panning for gold at Mennock Water, a little stream near Wanlockhead. Gold panning has been quite popular in this area for centuries.

The gorgeous Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens is only 25 minutes from here by car.

If you are travelling with kids, you can hop on board a heritage diesel train between Leadhills and Wanlockhead. It runs only on weekends during the summer months.

Scotland’s long-distance coast-to-coast walking trail, The Southern Upland Way, goes through this village.  

How to Reach : Catch a local bus service operated by Stuarts of Carluke from Lanark Bus Station.

🚗 From Dumfries, 50 min / 32 miles.

21. Falkland, Fife

A former royal burgh of Stuart Kings and Queens of Fife, Falkland is a living time capsule of the past. It is the first conservation village in Scotland.

With the Lomond Hills looming over, Falkland is home to honeycomb houses, pretty cobbled lanes, Falkland Palace and Gardens, and Bruce Fountain.

The 16th-century royal residence boasts of having the oldest tennis court in the World. It was once a country residence for Scottish Kings. Mary, Queen of Scots, frequently visited this palace and enjoyed falconry and hunting.

Not only that, Falkland has a few local boutique shops, cosy cafes, tearooms, and restaurants. It is also one of the filming locations for the famous time-travelling historic TV Series, Outlander.

For nature lovers, there are some great walks around the village. The nearby Maspie Den walk is popular with walkers. Fit hikers would love to explore the full East Lomond Circuit.

How to Reach : Hop on board a train to Ladybank and catch a local bus from there.

🚗 From Edinburgh 1 hour/ 39 miles

22. New Lanark, Lanarkshire

New Lanark is one of the six  UNESCO World Heritage Sites  in Scotland. This charming historical small village was founded in 1786 by David Dale, who built cotton mills and housing by the River Clyde. 

Later under the pioneering industrialist and philanthropist Robert Owen, the mills flourished. He implemented many revolutionary ideas that were way ahead of his time. 

Today visitors can explore and learn about the history of these 200-year-old restored mills and houses. You can see recreated school rooms, village stores and mill workers’ homes.

While here, take a short woodland walk to see the nearby Falls of Clyde.

How to Reach : Catch a bus or train from Glasgow to Lanark. 

🚗 From Glasgow, 50 min / 28 miles.

23. Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Isle of Lewis

The remotest place on our list, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village is a former crofting village on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It’s a must-see attraction on the island because of its unique cluster of thatched stone cottages.  

You can get a really nice insight into the Hebridean life of the past centuries, like how they used to weave the world-renowned Harris Tweed and survived in the wild North Atlantic weather. There is a cafe and a small shop selling local souvenirs.

You can either day-trip to Gearrannan or spend the night at their holiday accommodations in the thatched cottages. There are walking, cycling and fishing opportunities here. 

Also, the renowned Calanais Standing Stones and the Iron Age Broch are close to this place. You can easily combine them in a single visit.

How to Reach:   From Stornoway, 33 min / 18 miles.

24. Dysart, Fife

Dysart has turned into a photogenic village, with picturesque old buildings and narrow alleys leading to the seafront. It sits on the Fife Coastal Path and is a hidden gem.

Once a prosperous bustling industrial town, Dysart today is a suburb in the northeast of Kirkcaldy.  

Crow-stepped gabbles on the historic building are stark reminders of its trading past with Holland. On the High street, a tolbooth stands tall with a clocktower as a prominent landmark of this former fishing village.

The lovely little Dysart Harbour is one of the Outlander filming locations in Scotland. There is an excellent view of the harbour with St Serf’s old Parish Church from the Sailor’s walk, which continues to the Ravenscraig Park.  

How to Reach : Hop on a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh or Dunfermline.  

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour / 30 miles.

25. East Linton, East Lothian

East Linton lies about 20 miles east of the capital city of Edinburgh . Locals consider this village a gem of the East Lothian county in Scotland.  

In past centuries, this farming settlement on the River Tyne had a number of working watermills dotted on its bank. However, the only remaining one now is the picturesque Preston Mill, which has a unique shape with its conical roof.

After Preston Mill’s feature in the TV Series, Outlander, this village started gaining popularity in the last few years. They have guided tours to tell interesting stories about the mill’s grinding past.  

Another must-see attraction in East Linton is Phantassie Doocot, a 16th-century beehive-shaped dovecot.  

You would also love to explore Preston Kirk and the village square that has a small fountain. Also, walk to the nearby Linton Linn, a lovely waterfall on the River Tyne.

How to Reach : Get the X7 East Coast Buses from Edinburgh.

🚗 From Edinburgh 40 min/ 24 miles.

Map of the Villages in Scotland

Here is a map of all the villages mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. You can also use it offline.

We hope this guide to the most striking villages in Scotland has inspired you!  

After visiting these places over the years, we have had many fond memories of them.  

Sometimes overlooked by tourists, they are perfect for a tranquil holiday in nature. So, definitely add a few of them to your Scotland travel itinerary.

Let us know whether you have any favourites among the Scottish villages.

To fuel your travel inspiration further, check out some of our other Scotland travel guides .

Love, Moumita & Sankha

7 thoughts on “The 25 Prettiest Villages in Scotland You Must Visit + Map”

Thankyou for inviting me to your travels of Scotland. These photos have brought back hundreds of happy memories of holidays my late husband Geoff and I shared. We both loved Scotland and rain never stopped us from enjoying our visits. Yes we had rain and sunshine in equal measure and enjoyed every minute. Thankyou.

I would Dervaig village as a village hardly changed with pencil tower on church. It is on Isle of Mull

Bob Scott, Due to my age also a full time carera to my wife, not knowing at the time looking into my ancestery that I have Scottish history going way – way back in and around the areras you have covered. So when people like your good selves post your reports of your time spent in these wonderfull places, it brings to life of where my ancestors live. So thank you so much for sharing your experiences, Gratefully Sharde. Bob Scott.

considering a move to Scotland, so just starting research

Aberlady in East Lothian is absolutely gorgeous.. 2 great pubs of excellent standards and the people are like family .. we have the walks of gosford house and also the beaches of Longniddry and Aberlady along to Gullen which holds a gorgeous golf course and another white sandy beaches.. never lived in such a Bonnie Bonnie Villiage . Thankyou

I enjoyed your exploration of the Isle of Skye here! I visited there in 2017, staying in Sligachan, and did some hiking of the Cuillens. Nice picture of Eilean Donan Castle, near the entrance to Skye. I took a similar shot and it’s a favorite. I stumbled across your site because I’m going back to Skye next month, and will stay 3 nights at the Uig Hotel, Uig. I had also read about Elgol and will do some hiking there also while on Skye. I’m a retired police Lt., and still an avid hiker at 73 (did Ben Nevis last trip to Scotland). Your photos were excellent! Thanks, Terry (Wisconsin, USA)

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The most beautiful places in Scotland

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• the-most-beautiful-places-in-scotland-as-voted-by-you

written by Joanne Owen

updated 14.02.2024

Awe-inspiring glens, castle-topped crags, and culture-rich cities — it’s clear why Scotland  is considered one of the most beautiful places in the world. But with such variety, deciding where to go in Scotland isn’t easy. So we asked you to share your insights in our “where's the most beautiful place in Scotland?” survey.

• 10. Orkney - one of the northeastern coast's most beautiful places in Scotland

9. Pitlochry – in the heart of Scotland

• 8. Bealach na Bà – in Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands
• 7. Glen Coe – a village in western Scotland

6. Isle of Iona – a small island in the inner Hebrides

• 5. Loch Lomond – a lake in southern Scotland
• 4. Glenfinnan – a hamlet in the Lochaber area of the Highlands
• 3. Isle of Harris – the southern part of a Scottish Hebridean island
• 2. Edinburgh – Scotland's compact, hilly capital
• 1. Isle of Skye – our readers' most beautiful place in Scotland

With the results now in, read on to discover the ten most beautiful places in Scotland, as voted by Rough Guides readers in 2022. It'll also arm you with tips on where to find the best accommodation, whether you're looking to discover  7 must-visit places in Scotland you've probably never heard of or are in the market for 7 uniquely Scottish experiences . There's a reason Scotland was included in our round-up of amazing traditional dress around the world.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Scotland, created by local experts

20 days  / from 2994 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 613 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 1070 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.

10. Orkney - one of the northeastern coast's most beautiful places in Scotland

What you love:  “the lovely beaches and open scenery” .

Rich in mystery-shrouded Stone Age sites,  Orkney  is a veritable living museum. The four sites that make up the Heart of Neolithic Orkney near Stromness were awarded World Heritage status in 1999. Stromness also happens to be one of the  30 best seaside towns UK . 

The ancient settlement of Skara Brae is a must-visit. Stunningly sited by the sweeping curve of the Bay of Skaill, the remains of this 5000-year-old fishing and farming village are astoundingly well-preserved, and especially beautiful on bright days.

Then there’s the Ring of Brodgar, the monumental Stones of Stenness, and the nearby  Maes Howe burial site . Arguably Europe’s most impressive burial chamber complex, Maes Howe’s most extraordinary feature is the way the tomb aligns with the winter solstice sun. That and the runic graffiti left by the Vikings back in the 12th century.  

Alongside loving Orkney’s spectacular scenery and historic attractions, you also mentioned its excellent opportunities for outdoor adventuring, with one respondent declaring Orkney to have “some of Scotland's best walking routes”. If hikes are your thing, you’ll want to discover  10 great places to go walking in Scotland . 

Where to stay in Orkney

• For cosy stays : The Stromness Hotel by Paymán Club is a comfortable 3-star hotel only a short drive from the Ring of Brogdar and Standing Stones of Stenness.
• For scenic stays : Merkister Hotel sit on the shores of Harray Loch. Family-run for over 30 years it's home to an award winning restaurant and guests can fish off the hotel pier.
• For family stays : Standing Stones Hotel in Stromness features a restaurant, bar and large, scenic garden. Good sized family rooms are available as well as a range of spacious doubles.

Find more accommodation options in Orkney

What to do in Orkney

If you're staying in Inverness a  3-day guided tour to Orkney is one of the best ways to explore this fascinating and mysterious area of Scotland.  

Orkney's spectacular Skara Brae settlement © LouieLea/Shutterstock

What you love:  “the wild forests and rivers” 

Located in the spectacular Highlands of  Perthshire , it’s clear to see why the peaceful, picturesque town of Pitlochry made it into your top ten most beautiful places in Scotland.

Pitlochry is certainly one the best places in Scotland for foodies — think distilleries, pubs, restaurants and tearooms — with easy access to a host of rewarding walks and  exhilarating outdoor activities . 

After visiting and sampling the wares of one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, Blair Athol Distillery, head to Queen’s View for a variety of woodland walks and (you guessed it) excellent views over Loch Tummel. 

Lovers of the glorious outdoors will also want to explore Ben Vrackie (“speckled mountain”), with its 841m summit providing a splendid backdrop to town, and its peak offering fine views of the Beinn a Ghlo range to the north. 

Looking for more pulse-quickening experiences? Go gorge-jumping at Killiecrankie Gorge, which also happens to be the site of one of the bloodiest battles of Jacobean history. Meanwhile, mountain biking, canyoning, quad-biking and white-water rafting adventures await in the countryside around nearby Aberfeldy. 

Considering a holiday in the  Highlands  with kids? Read about 7 things every family must do in the Scottish Highlands . 

Where to stay in Pitlochry

• For secluded stays :  Pine Trees is a 4-star Victorian mansion set in 10 acres of lush gardens and woodland, it also specialises in Scottish cuisine and features log fires.
• For luxury stays : Fonab Castle Hotel is a refurbished Highland castle offering luxurious rooms with large bathrooms, as well as scenic views, mature gardens and two restaurants.
• For budget stays : Pitlochry Backpackers is based in a former hotel and offers dorms, twin and double rooms, a self-catering kitchen, communal lounge, bike storage and a drying room.

Find more places to stay in Perthshire .

What to do in Pitlochry

To make the most of your journey, try a  Highlands tour from Edinburgh  that takes in Fort William and Loch Ness en route to pretty Pitlochry.

Loch Tummel and Tay Forest Park as seen from Queen's View © grafxart/Shutterstock

8. Bealach na Bà – in Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands

What you love:  “the rustic, remote beauty” .

Bealach na Bà ("Pass of the Cattle") is a bona fide bucket-list beauty spot. An exhilarating rollercoaster of a road that connects Torridon to Applecross. In fact, its epic nature earned it a spot in our feature on the  world’s most extreme drives , and our overview of the  best road-trips in the UK .  

While Applecross may sound like a  pretty Cotswold village , its name is a corruption of the Gaelic for “estuary”— Apor Crosan. What’s more, driving Bealach na Bà is certainly no walk in an English country garden.

This former drovers’ route has a 20 percent gradient and countless hair-raising hairpins that make for a thrilling ride while offering jaw-dropping views over to Skye (more on that later). 

If that’s sparked your interest in finding the freedom of the open road, discover more  fantastic Scottish road-trips , and read the  Rough Guide to the North Coast 500.  Bealach na Bà is part of this 516-mile route that takes in everything from stunning coastal scenery and expansive sandy beaches, to rugged mountains and remote villages. 

Talking of which, if it’s seclusion you’re after, check out our guide to the  most spectacular remote places in Scotland . Alternatively, if adventure is on your mind, Scotland happens to feature in our overview of where to go for a serious adventure in some of the world’s wildest places. 

Where to stay in Wester Ross

• For active stays :  Hartfield House Hostel offers pet-friendly accommodation in Applecross with extensive grounds and covered space for bikes, ideal for cyclists and walkers.
• For budget stays : The Bunkhouse in Applecross offers a choice of single rooms and small dorms and features a shared kitchen and lounge in a scenic, rural location.
• For scenic stays : Applecross B&B features a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace all rooms have private bathrooms with shower and breakfast is full English/Irish or vegetarian.

Explore more places to stay in the Highlands .

What to do in Wester Ross

If you're in Inverness and short on time, take an  Inverness day trip  to discover the wonderful wildness of Torridon, Bealach na Bà, Applecross and Eilean Donan Castle.

The breathtaking hairpin bends of Bealach na Bà, Scotland © Jaroslav Sekeres/Shutterstock

7. Glen Coe – a village in western Scotland

What you love:  “the scenery is spectacular and it feels like home” .

Quite simply,  Glen Coe  is “just magnificent”, as one of our respondents enthused, while another of you celebrated its capacity to “take you back to times gone by”. 

Sixteen miles south of  Fort William, Glen Coe (“Valley of Weeping”) serves up breathtakingly beautiful views of a mountain valley tucked between cloud-shrouded, conical peaks. The epic nature of the landscape also matches its dramatic clan history.

This is the perfect destination for ramblers and hikers of all abilities, with the half-day hike over the Devil’s Staircase especially recommended. Part of the West Highland Way, this spectacular trail starts in the village of Kinlochleven. Follow the thistle signs up to the 1804ft pass before ambling down into Glen Coe. 

The awe-inspiring Allt Coire Gabhail hike also affords plenty of opportunities to see exactly why Rough Guides readers voted Glen Coe one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

The hiking route begins opposite the Three Sisters massif and leads walkers into the Lost Valley. Prepared to be stirred by views of the upper slopes of Bidean nan Bian, Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada.

Where to stay in Glen Coe

• For grand stays : near Fort William,  Glencoe House offers suites in a stately mansion house where you occupy your own wing and enjoy panoramic loch and mountain vistas.
• For authentic stays : Clachaig Inn is the liveliest and best known hotel in Glen Coe, expect cask-conditioned ales and heaped platefuls of food and comfy en-suite rooms.
• For lochside stays : The Isles of Glencoe Hotel sits on a peninsula in Loch Leven at the foot of Glencoe. The hotel offers spacious rooms with breathtaking loch and mountain views.

Find more accommodation near Glen Coe .

What to do in Glen Coe

If you're based in Edinburgh and want to explore this world famous area of Scotland, book a  day trip that takes-in Loch Ness and Glen Coe .

The brooding River Etive in Rannoch Moor near Glen Coe © Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

What you love:  “it talks to the soul” 

Located less than a mile off the  Isle of Mull , with a population of 177, if there’s one word that sums up your feelings about the  Isle of Iona , that word is “soulfulness”.  

At just three miles long and a little over a mile wide, it’s been a petite pocket of pilgrimage for centuries. As one of you remarked, the island’s “rich spiritual history set amongst such wild natural beauty leads to a visit that speaks to all five senses on a soul-level”. 

While most visitors come for a day-trip, to truly experience the tranquillity of the Isle of Iona, consider overnighting. It’s home to a host of historic sites, among them Iona Abbey and Dunbhuirg Iron Age fort.

Iona is also blessed with beautiful walks and a stunning coastline, with one of our respondents waxing lyrical about the “turquoise sea and white beaches”. 

Interested in other destinations with spiritual depth? Read our run-down of places to experience  awe-inspiring religious ceremonies . And, if you’re seeking the ultimate secluded experience, arm yourselves with our  tips for surviving solo travel .

Where to stay in Iona 

• For scenic stays :  Iona Pods feature mountain views, 10-minute walk to beaches. The pods are set on a working croft and complimentary WiFi is provided throughout.
• For family stays : St Columba Hotel is set in large gardens in Iona, it offers a restaurant and bar, as well as a range of family rooms and concierge service for guests.
• For cosy stays : Ardoran House is close to Iona Ferry Terminal and features a sun terrace and a private beach area. Iona Abbey is a pretty and easy walk from the guest house.

Discover more places to stay in the Inner Hebrides .

What to do in Iona 

Spend some dedicated time exploring the best of Scotland’s West Highlands with local guides on a  four-day tour of Mull and Iona . 

The Isle of Iona is a calm and colourful charmer © yvonnestewarthenderson/Shutterstock

5. Loch Lomond – a lake in southern Scotland

What you love:  “the combination of water, mountains, islands and woodland”.

At 23 miles long and up to five miles wide,  Loch Lomond  is Britain’s largest stretch of water. It also presents the very epitome of Scotland’s scenic majesty, as immortalised in the ballad that describes its “bonnie, bonnie banks”. In fact, one of you pointed out that “its banks are called bonnie for a reason”. 

Designated Scotland’s first national park back in 2002, the  Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park  stretch from the lochs of the Clyde Estuary to Loch Tay in Perthshire, with Loch Lomond at its heart. 

While the western edge of the loch can become packed with day-tripping coach tours from  Glasgow , the eastern side has an altogether more pastoral feel — think wooden ferryboats, and tree-shrouded islands, with excellent opportunities to walk or take a serene boat trip. 

That said, since you happen to be in the general neighbourhoon, a visit to Loch Lomond is a good excuse to discover Scotland's city of cool: why Glasgow should be your next weekend break with more travel tips from our  insider’s guide to Glasgow . 

Where to stay in Loch Lomond

• For luxury stays : five-star Cameron House in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park offers luxurious en suite bedrooms, a golf course, rooftop infinity pool and four restaurants.
• For independent stays : The Coachouse is close to Balloch Castle Country Park and features fully-equipped self-catering units with kitchens, lounge areas and private bathrooms.
• For family stays : Loch Lomond Luxury Lodges in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park offers 1,2 or 3 bedroom lodges with hot tubs, saunas and spa baths.

Find more places to stay near Loch Lomond .

What to do in Loch Lomond

One of the most magical ways to explore Loch Lomond is to take a cruise with views set sail on an island discovery tour around Scotland's most famous loch.

Lovely Loch Lomond, Scotland © Shutterstock

4. Glenfinnan – a hamlet in the Lochaber area of the Highlands

What you love:  “i'm not sure i have the words, it's just so beautiful".

Spectacularly sited at the head of Loch Shiel, respondents praised the sleepy village of Glenfinnan for its “peace, beauty, landscape and diversity”, with many of you highlighting the viaduct and steam train.  

Traversed by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, travellers of all ages will delight in taking a trip across the elegant, multi-arched bridge. 

During the summer, a Jacobite steam train runs from Glenfinnan to Fort William and Mallaig, with conventional trains running the rest of the year. There’s a reason this route was included in our round-up of  unforgettable train journeys . If it’s old-world charm you’re after, discover more Britain's top five steam railways .

Alongside the viaduct, visitors are drawn to Glenfinnan for the walks and history. It was here in 1745 that Bonnie Prince Charlie rallied forces before the ill-fated march on London, with the Glenfinnan Monument marking the exact spot he raised his battle standard. 

One of Scotland’s most iconic structures, this 60ft column crowned with a Highland clansman in full battle dress occupies a beautiful, brooding spot at the head of the loch, best appreciated from a viewpoint behind the Visitor Centre.  

Where to stay in Glenfinnan

• For family stays : Prince’s House offers spacious rooms with en suite bathroom, as well as family rooms. The hotel restaurant is excellent and several rooms enjoy mountain views.
• Best for walkers: The Armoury villa .

Find more places to stay in the Highlands .

The Rough Guides to Scotland and related travel guides

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

What to do in Glenfinnan

While you won’t want to miss  boarding the Hogwarts Express , history buffs might want to consider booking a  4-day Outlander Trail from Edinburgh .

Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct — one of your deserving most beautiful places in Scotland © Nick Fox/Shutterstock

3. Isle of Harris – the southern part of a Scottish Hebridean island

What you love:  “atmospheric and wonderfully restoring, it’s a total balm”.

Part of the  Western Isles , you adored the Isle of Harris (Na Hearadh, from the old Norse for “high land”) for being “tranquil, beautiful, and full of fond memories”, and for its “beyond spectacular” beaches.

In actual fact, the Isle of Harris is connected to Lewis, with the “division” deriving from a historical split in the MacLeod clan. Harris is hillier than low-lying Lewis, with boulder-dappled slopes descending to dazzling white sands and azure waters that make it one of the best islands in Scotland .

Sheltered in a green valley on the narrow isthmus, charming Tarbet is Harris’ largest settlement. The port’s mountainous backdrop is breathtaking, with the town itself attractively laid out on steep terraces. North Harris is especially spectacular, with bulging, pyramidal mountains of gneiss looming over fjord-like Loch Seaforth.

Meanwhile, though the scenery of South Harris is less dramatic, it’s another stunning area, with its west coast boasting some of the finest stretches of golden sand in the Western Isles, which is really saying something. It's also a big reason Harris was one of your most beautiful places in Scotland.

Where to stay: 

• Best for loch views:   Ceol na Mara Guest House . 
• Best for scenic seclusion: Finsbay Lodges .

Find more places to stay on the Isle of Harris .

What to do:

Want to blend a city break with exploring the best of the Western Isles? Take a  multi-day trip from Edinburgh  or  Inverness .

Beautiful beaches abound on the Isle of Harris, bagging it a spot in your most beautiful places in Scotland © Shutterstock

2. Edinburgh – Scotland's compact, hilly capital

What you love: “the craggy castle looming over the city, the sweeping views from arthur's seat, the heritage and culture".

Robert Burns described  Edinburgh  as “Scotia’s darling seat”, Walter Scott called it “mine own romantic town”, and you hailed it "an absolute stunner”. 

Part-built on Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano with a jawbone of crags so striking it almost puts  Edinburgh’s showpiece castle  in the shade, Scotland’s capital is something of a living fairy-tale. Its cobbled wynds wind from the Royal Mile in the  Old Town  into an old New Town that served as the grid blueprint for Manhattan.

But it’s not all about the past, Edinburgh is a hotbed of art and culture, with a thriving food scene that showcases Scotland’s best  eating and drinking  options. It's one of our  30 best places to go with kids as well, and one of the best UK city break destinations .

Where to stay:

• Best for atmospheric indulgence: The Witchery by the Castle .
• Best for boutique beauty: Tigerlily .

Read our guide to Edinburgh accommodation and find more places to stay in Edinburgh .

From going underground in  Old Town’s spooky vaults , to heading off on a  Harry Potter tour , Edinburgh isn’t short of rewarding activities for all ages and tastes. Talking of which, this  History of Whiskey storytelling and tasting tour  comes highly recommended.

Edinburgh's stunning cityscape from Arthur's Seat © S-F/Shutterstock

1. Isle of Skye – our readers' most beautiful place in Scotland

What you love:  “fabulous scenery, hidden lochs, rugged coastline, gorgeous towns, beautiful people” .

With over 18% of votes, the  Isle of Skye  is your number one most beautiful place in Scotland, drawing enthusiasm for its “vast wilderness and scenery”, and for being so darn “beautiful and wild”. What’s more, our experts selected the Isle of Skye as one of the best places on earth for 2022. 

Though featured in our round-up of the  best UK places to visit in spring  due to this being the perfect time to appreciate its budding natural beauty, the Isle of Skye is a divine year-round destination. Indeed, a number of you remarked on its varied “scenery and changing weather” throughout the year. 

With its mysterious moors, mountains, cliffs and lochs, Skye is the perfect place to be astounded by nature — there’s a reason it earned a place in our gallery of the world’s best sunset spots . 

It’s a place of enchantment, too, as seen in the Fairy Glen’s landscape of emerald valleys, miniature mountains and babbling brooks, and at the Fairy Pools. Not only are these breathtakingly beautiful, but they’re also one of the  best places in Britain for wild swimming

If you fancy exploring the isle of Skye alongside visiting Loch Ness and Edinburgh, our  tailor-made Highland Tour  might be of interest. Curated by a local expert, it can be fully customised. 

For more information, see our comprehensive guidebook to the  Scottish highlands and islands . You might also want to look at a guide to the best Scottish islands . 

• Best for beach lovers: The Beach House .
• Best for family comfort: self-catering Rowan Cottage .

Find more places to stay on the Isle of Skye.

Book a full-day Best of Skye tour  from Portree to explore the Fairy Pools, Talisker Distillery, Dunvegan Castle, the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Glen.  

The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye - your vote for the most beautiful place in Scotland - © orxy/Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to Scotland ? Check out the Rough Guide to Scotland . If you travel further in Portugal read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit . For inspiration speak to our local experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there. And don't forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland » 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

We’ve put together this guide of the best places to visit in Scotland so you can plan the perfect itinerary. From the medieval castles to cosmopolitan cities, this list covers all interests to make your Scottish holiday a trip to remember.

With rolling hills, quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and rugged coastline, there are so many incredible places to visit in Scotland that will make you fall in love. 

And the really wonderful thing about Scotland is that most places are very close together, meaning you can see a lot of the country in one visit and you won’t have to drive very far.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best places in Scotland to put on your itinerary and bring you one step closer to planning the perfect trip.

For each place, we’re going to share the best things to do and where to stay, so grab a mug of coffee (or a glass of Scotch) and get your pen and paper ready to create a plan!

Scotland Travel Guide

We’ve also included some helpful resources for planning your trip to Scotland…

Scotland itinerary

• What to pack for Scotland

Top places to visit in Scotland

If you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Scotland, here are our top recommendations. 

• Isle of Skye

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these cities and more ideas for cool places to visit in Scotland. 

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

1. Edinburgh

History, iconic sights and stunning architecture

Scotland’s capital city may be the second largest by population, but there’s no denying that the cultural experience in Edinburgh is second to none. Hundreds of thousands of people flock from all over the world to visit this city for plenty of reasons.

After all, this city inspired J.K. Rowling’s enchanting world in the Harry Potter books! Which isn’t at all surprising when you take in the cobblestone streets, charming small town feel and Gothic and Medieval architecture abound.

Head into the medieval old town to learn about the interesting history and see some of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. 

The new town is filled with more modern Georgian architecture, tons of restaurants and Princes Street, the main shopping street that is overlooked by the castle.

Fun fact: The city even boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in the UK! 

The best part about Edinburgh is that most of the historical tourist attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. You could spend days here and still not run out of things to do. It’s easy to see why Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in Scotland.

• Things to do in Edinburgh

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , but here are some highlights:

• You can’t visit Edinburgh and not take a wander around Edinburgh Castle.
• Wander up Calton Hill just at the top of Princes Street and take in beautiful views over the city and beyond.
• Visit Mary Kings Close, a hidden street underneath the city that allows you to experience what life was like back in the 16th and 17th century in Edinburgh.
• Hike to Arthur’s Seat atop an extinct volcano.
• Visit the Elephant House and see where J.K. Rowling penned the Harry Potter books. (Oh and visit the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard and see how many character names you can find amongst the headstones.)
• Pop around to local pubs and try some typical Scottish foods like haggis, black pudding, and sticky toffee pudding!
• Indulge in afternoon tea , a time honored tradition in the UK. 
• Explore Dean Village , Edinburgh’s cutest neighborhood.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Linton Collection – Blackfriars Lofts : Constructed in a former church dating back to 1871, this unique accommodation comes well-equipped with everything you need including a kitchenette, dining area and high speed wifi. 

This is where we stayed and we HIGHLY recommend it. Perfect location. Super cute and comfortable.

The Dunstane Houses : Nestled in the vibrant West End, this hotel is actually made up of two 1852 Victorian townhouses. It’s in a highly walkable area and offers upscale amenities, plus free parking (not common in the city!). The onsite bar has a fantastic selection of whiskey and gin, and offers tastings of both.

Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel : Situated in the heart of the old town on Cockburn Street, you couldn’t get any closer to the city center if you tried. With plenty of things to see, do and places to eat nearby it’s a great affordable option for exploring this magical city.

Psst! If hotel stays aren’t your thing, we have a curated list of the  best Edinburgh Airbnbs  for you to browse!

Music, culture, shopping and university vibes

Just 50 miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow feels a world different.

A little grittier than Edinburgh at first glance, Glasgow isn’t as storybook-pretty as its neighbor to the east; but it makes up for it in other ways. 

Glasgow has the largest population of any city in Scotland, and most Scottish people we’ve spoken to claim it’s their favorite.

Perhaps it’s the fact that it doesn’t feel as saturated with tourists as Edinburgh. Or maybe it’s the enchanting combination of art, music and food. Perhaps it’s the vibe of a cool university city that’s hard to put into words…

Whatever the allure for you, we think Glasgow is definitely worth a gander. For us, it took a bit longer to really get it (whereas with Edinburgh, we fell in love immediately). But now we’re already itching to get back and explore more.

• Things to do in Glasgow

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Glasgow , but here are some highlights:

• Take a Scottish food tour – we loved ours!
• Walk through the cloisters on the University of Glasgow campus.
• Indulge in a doughnut (or three!) at Tantrum Doughnuts .
• Walk through Kelvingrove Park.
• Bonus: it’s free to explore!
• Share several dishes in a family-style meal at Ubiquitous Chip , located on the charming Ashton Lane in the trendy West End neighborhood.
• If you’re visiting on a weekend, head to The Barras and browse the hundreds of stalls where merchants and artisans sell their wares.
• FYI: The trail is 96 miles and takes roughly 7 days, but if you don’t have the time (or stamina!), just hike as long as you’d like before turning around.
• Hike Finnich Glen to the Devil’s Pulpit rock , through a lush green gorge with otherworldly crimson red, swift-moving water, just north of Glasgow.

Where to stay in Glasgow

CitizenM : If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Glasgow that’s completely different to anywhere else in the city, then definitely check out this digitally advanced, space-saving hotel. (The beds literally go from wall to wall.) It’s located right in the city center and just minutes walk from the bus station and main shopping.

voco Grand Central : In the heart of the city’s shopping district at Glasgow Central Station, the main transportation hub, this grand hotel is a local icon. The historic 1880s building is a sight to behold in its own right, and the convenient location makes it an easy choice. 

Euro Hotel Glasgow : A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Glasgow, including surprising perks such as free wi-fi, a view overlooking the River Clyde, a game room with pool tables, and an onsite restaurant and bike rental shop. There’s a variety of room types to choose from, including private rooms and dormitories.

3. Isle of Skye

Rugged natural landscapes, picturesque hikes, and medieval castles

Renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic scenery, Isle of Skye is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

As the northernmost major island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, Skye embodies everything Scotland is so famous for. You’ll encounter rugged coastline dotted with quaint fishing villages, sprawling medieval castles, and lush green hills and cliffs in every direction. 

Needless to say, Isle of Skye is a bucket list-worthy destination, especially for nature lovers. The hiking here is straight out of a fairytale. You’ll find endless places to explore and there are also plenty of unique places to eat and stay.

We put together the ultimate guide to the Isle of Skye , which includes everything you need to know about planning your visit from essential tips to all the top attractions and fun things to do. Be sure to check out our guide and bookmark it to save for your travel planning!

To give you a little taste, here are some of the highlights…

Things to do in the Isle of Skye

• Start your day with a caffeine kick at Lean To Coffee .
• Hike the Old Man of Storr trail .
• Make the walk to the iconic Skye Fairy Pools .
• Wander Fairy Glen at sunset.
• See the Quiraing viewpoint and take the hike, if your heart desires.
• Peep Dunvegan Castle from afar, or take a tour inside.
• Walk up to the Duirinish Stone and pretend you’re in Outlander.
• See Scottish Highland cows at this viewpoint .

Where to stay in Isle of Skye

Viewfield House : Located in Portree, this lovely B&B makes a great homebase. In addition to a full Scottish breakfast, guests can enjoy the onsite bar, large fireplace in the common area, and fast wi-fi. The property sits on 20 acres, so it feels secluded, yet it’s within easy walking distance of Portree proper. 

Sligachan Hotel : Tucked into rural farmland on a scenic loch in Sconser, this hotel is in one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re hoping to spot Highland cows. The property is right next to the iconic Sligachan Old Bridge and less than 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools, plus it has its own micro-brewery and whiskey bar onsite. 

Kinloch Campsite : If you are planning to go camping in Scotland , it doesn’t get much better than this small campground overlooking Loch Dunvegan (yep — Dunvegan Castle is just minutes away!). Campsites can accommodate tents, campervans, or motorhomes, and they’re thoughtfully tiered so everyone has a great view. Amenities include free hot showers and free wi-fi.

Looking for a way to fit all of this in one trip?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

4. Inverness

Cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands

As the northernmost city in Scotland, Inverness offers a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of The Highlands with a modern city. In fact, more than one-third of The Highlands’ entire population lives in the Inverness metro area. The city is small, but rapidly changing as it’s one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. 

Inverness has all the modern amenities one could possibly need, while still providing easy access to Scotland’s beautiful mountains, lochs, and scenery of The Highlands. There is no shortage of castles, churches and cathedrals, distilleries, and historical sites to explore.

This beautiful city is also one of the best places to visit in Scotland because it’s the place where the North Coast 500 begins. (More on that in #12!)

Things to do in Inverness

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Inverness , but here are some highlights:

• Enjoy a 3-course lunch at The Mustard Seed .
• Get lost in Leakey’s Bookshop .
• Walk the path around Ness Islands.
• Grab a coffee and breakfast at Velocity Cafe & Bicycle Workshop .
• See live music at Hootenanny .
• Indulge in a doughnut and cappuccino by day or an espresso martini by night at Perk Cafe .
• Glimpse Inverness Castle from the outside (it’s currently undergoing renovations, and closed to the public).
• If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Culloden Battlefield will likely be something you won’t want to miss.
• Outlander fans will recognize the stones at Clara Cairns

Where to stay in Inverness

Inverness Student Hotel : Tucked into the city center, this riverside hostel is both cozy and affordable. Dormitory-style rooms have 5-10 beds and the common area features a huge fireplace, river views, a shared kitchen, and complimentary coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. 

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel : Sitting right on the banks of the River Ness and just steps from the heart of the city, this chic hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for several places to visit in Scotland. The fast wi-fi and free parking are nice, but the real attraction is the extensive whisky bar, with nearly 300 varieties.

Camping Pod Heaven : For truly unique accommodation in Inverness, Camping Pod Heaven combines all the best aspects of camping and more luxurious “glamping.” The pods each sleep four and include mattresses, heat, electrical sockets, and wi-fi. Just bring bedding and cooking supplies!

Psst! Read up on our guide to glamping in Scotland if you want more information on this unique style accommodation that’s become super popular.

5. Loch Ness

Home of the folklore, the Loch Ness Monster (or “Nessie” for short)

It’s impossible to list the best places to visit in Scotland without mentioning Loch Ness. The storied home of the Loch Ness Monster, the world’s most famous mythical creature, this gorgeous loch near Inverness is full of intrigue. 

Although local folklore about Nessie dates back to the year 565 AD, it’s so elusive that the first real sighting (and photograph) wasn’t until 1933. Since then, there have been countless reports of something lurking in the water, but only a handful accompanied by photo or video proof. 

Needless to say, the “monster” is a theme woven into many attractions and even aspects of day-to-day life in Loch Ness, but even if you’re not necessarily a believer, there are plenty of other reasons to visit. 

The town is home to spectacular Urquhart Castle and several other historical sites, Loch Ness itself is jaw-dropping (it’s enormous — the deepest in Scotland and larger than all the lakes in England and Wales combined!), and it’s an easy side trip if you’re visiting Inverness. 

Things to do at Loch Ness

• Enjoy the sunset on Dores Beach.
• Grab a pint and pub food at The Dores Inn .
• Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness and stop to explore Urquhart Castle.
• Rent a bicycle to explore the Loch Ness 360 bike path.
• The water averages just 41℉ year-round, but “wild swimming” is incredibly popular here!

Epic hiking and adventures

Nestled in Scotland’s Western Highlands, Glencoe sits in a valley formed by glaciers and volcanoes. Today, the dramatic, rugged landscape dotted with lochs and mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures, including some of the best hikes in Scotland. 

It’s no wonder that Glencoe has served as the filming location for several iconic movies, including Braveheart , James Bond , and Harry Potter .

Glencoe itself is actually an officially-designated National Nature Reserve, but it’s also a quaint historic village with quick access to scenic drives, epic hiking trails, and one of only five ski resorts in all of Scotland. It also plays host to some serious gems in the form of traditional Scottish pubs.

Things to do in Glencoe

• Grab a mushroom roll (trust us!) and some sweet treats at Stiff Peaks Patisserie .
• Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Laroch Restaurant & Bar .
• Indulge in the seafood platter at Lochleven Seafood Cafe .
• Take in the epic views at Three Sisters Car Park.
• Do the Hidden Valley hike! (Just do it!)
• Snap a shot on the road from James Bond’s Skyfall . 
• Head to these coordinates for an epic shot of a small waterfall and the peak of Buachaille Etive Mòr in the distance.
• Hike to Steall Waterfall.
• If you’re feeling very ambitious, summit Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Scotland.

Where to stay in Glencoe

Clachaig Inn : Nestled in the valley and ideally located for exploring Steall Waterfall or visiting the Ben Nevis distillery, this inn is a great option. Rooms are private, there’s an onsite pub and restaurant, and the inn even has a children’s playground. 

Kingshouse Hotel : Part hostel and part traditional hotel, the Kingshouse offers classic guest rooms as well as a hostel-style bunkhouse, geared toward hikers. Linens are provided, breakfast is offered at an affordable rate, and laundry and gear storage services are available.

Bridge of Orchy Hotel : Offering traditional rooms in the main building and suites in the annexes, Bridge of Orchy is situated right along the A82, the major thoroughfare into the Highlands. The train station is also within walking distance. Every room has spectacular views, and a full Scottish breakfast and parking are complimentary.

Wondering how to fit this all in one trip? Use our guide to planning the ultimate Scotland road trip , which covers everything from vehicle rentals to budget tips and itineraries. 

The bustling hub of the Isle of Skye

The colorful and lively hub of activity on Skye, Portee offers an abundance of services and amenities for travelers. It serves as an excellent homebase for exploring the Isle of Skye , with quick access to boat tours and countless day trips. With plenty of charm, it’s also well worth a visit in its own right. 

You could easily spend several days just strolling around Portree, chasing waterfalls and snapping photos from different viewpoints. The town has several world-class dining options as well. 

One thing to keep in mind is that because Portree is Skye’s main hub, everything books up well in advance for peak season (summer). You’ll want to book your accommodation, tours, and even restaurant reservations as far in advance as possible.  

Things to do in Portree

• Get a view above the colorful town at this viewpoint .
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at Sea Breezes . We recommend ordering the hand-dived scallops!
• Make a dinner reservation ( at least a week early!) at The View , in the Cuillin Hills Hotel.  
• Take a pony ride with Isle of Skye Trekking & Therapy Centre for some of the best views on the island. 
• Take a whale- or dolphin-watching boat tour (the best time is between May and October).

Where to stay in Portree

Marmalade Hotel : Housed in an early 1800s Georgian-style home, this beautiful hotel overlooks Portree Bay and well-manicured gardens. Dine in the onsite restaurant or garden, enjoy a cocktail in the heated courtyard, and take advantage of the boat and distillery tours that depart just minutes away.

Tianavaig View Apartments : If a vacation rental is more your style, these apartments offer a perfect middle-ground. The self-contained, modern apartments are centrally located and well-equipped, but come with hotel-like amenities and services such as housekeeping. 

Portree Independent Hostel : This hostel is ideally located right on Portree Bay. The shared kitchen, dining, and living rooms have fantastic views and great wi-fi connection, and dormitory-style rooms are spacious and comfy. 

8. Applecross

Remote peninsula in the Western Highlands known for its seafood and rugged scenery

Known by locals as “The Street,” tiny, remote Applecross is where you go to have an authentic Scottish experience. 

There’s little, if any, nightlife, and few restaurants and accommodations to choose from, but the outdoor adventure and scenery more than makes up for it. Plus, the village’s restaurants and pubs are shockingly good (like, Michelin-star good!).

The small fishing village overlooks the Sound of Raasay and offers views of several nearby islands. There are also small beaches and proper sand dunes in Applecross. It goes without saying that hiking, driving, and even just strolling through town are all accompanied by incredible views!

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for slowing down and truly taking in your surroundings. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Try local fish n’ chips and freshly-ground coffee from Applecross Inn-Side Out , a converted 1950s Airstream trailer. 
• Stroll from Sand Bay to Applecross Bay, taking in coastal views of the isles of Skye and Raasay.  
• Go sea kayaking with Mountain and Sea Guides .
• Drive the winding Bealach na Ba (the Pass of the Cattle), the highest road in all of Great Britain at 2,053 feet above sea level. 
• Treat yourself to dinner at Michelin-starred Applecross Inn . 

9. Cairngorms National Park

Largest national park in the UK, nestled in the Highlands

If you have limited time and have to decide on just one or two places to visit in Scotland, Cairngorms National Park should absolutely be one of them. National Geographic Traveller Magazine even named it one of the top 20 places to visit in the entire world!

Situated in the famed Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms has epic hiking and bicycling routes, castles, amazing wildlife, family-friendly attractions, museums, and even distilleries. 

The national park is also home to five of the six tallest mountains in the UK, plus a whopping 55 “Munros,” mountains taller than 3,000 feet (914.4m). And at 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles), it’s the largest national park in the UK.

You could easily spend your entire visit here and still have a great time! 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park

• Trek to a reindeer herd in the mountains.
• Do the epic Meall a’ Bhuachaille hike.
• Wander the small town of Aviemore.
• Catch live music at The Old Bridge Inn .
• Take a tour of Balmoral Castle , a summer residence of the Royal family.
• See the pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert , a strange sight to behold in the middle of a Scottish forest.

Where to stay in Cairngorms National Park

Blair Castle Caravan Park (glamping): Situated at the park entrance in Blair Atholl, this spectacular glamping site offers a range of accommodations. Stay in a unique riverside camping pod, self-catering tiny homes, or wood cabins, or pitch your own tent in the campsite.

Cairngorm Hotel : Ideally located on the main drag in Aviemore, the Cairngorm Hotel is the perfect basecamp for exploring the park and surrounding Highlands. Views, service, and dining options are all top-notch, and you’ll be within walking distance of shopping, hikes, and pubs. 

10. Outer Hebrides

Unique culture and remote, pristine beaches that rival those of the Caribbean 

Off Scotland’s rugged northwest coast, the Outer Hebrides is an archipelago comprised of 70 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited.

Each is a fascinating combination of quaint fishing villages, mountains, sand dunes, proper beaches, epic scenery, and diverse food scenes. 

There are many hidden gems in the Outer Hebrides , meaning you’ll get off the typical tourist path and have a very special experience.

Good to know: Scotland has both the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides archipelagos. The Inner Hebrides are located closer to mainland Scotland and are comprised of 79 islands, including the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Mull, Jura and Islay, to name just a few of the more well-known isles.

The Outer Hebrides have been consistently occupied by various cultures since the Mesolithic period, so it comes as no surprise that the islands have a distinct culture all their own. Thanks to the different influences, you’ll experience bits of Gaelic, Norse, and Celtic culture, as well as warm, welcoming hospitality. 

Getting to the Outer Hebrides

If you have a bit more time in Scotland (or this is not your first trip to the country), we’d recommend adding this unique region to your list of places to visit in Scotland.

The reason we don’t necessarily recommend the Outer Hebrides as part of a shorter Scotland trip is that getting there does require a bit of time, making it difficult to squeeze into a limited itinerary (especially when you want to see many other places).

That said, there are multiple flights and ferries to the Outer Hebrides every day from mainland Scotland. In most cases, you can be in the isles in under two hours. 

Things to do in the Outer Hebrides

• See the Black Houses in Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Visit the Standing Stones from 2,000 years ago
• Rent a bike and cycle from Lewis to Harris on the Hebridean Way
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the beaches
• Be sure to try the local delicacy: Charles MacLeod Black Pudding
• Book an overnight stay at Amhuinnsuidhe Castle (which includes meals)

Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides

Hotel Hebrides : Conveniently located in Tarbert near some of the best beaches in the Outer Hebrides, this boutique hotel is a great choice. The rooms are comfortable, the restaurant and bar are exceptional, and it’s right at the ferry port. 

Ravenspoint Hostel : In the Gaelic-speaking farming (“crofting” in Scotland) community of South Loch on the Isle of Lewis, this hostel offers ultra-affordable, comfy accommodation with a view. There are various room types, plus shared kitchen and laundry facilities.

11. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Scotland’s first national park and one of the country’s most popular destinations

Considered one of the most scenic parts of the country, The Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond are some of the most popular places to visit in Scotland. (Many Scots take “staycations” here, which is really saying something!)

Loch Lomond is the park’s crown jewel, sitting right on a fault line that serves as the natural boundary between the Highlands and the lowlands. Its geographical diversity is truly a sight to behold, with different formations and terrain even from one end to the other. 

Best of all, The Trossachs is just 30 miles from Glasgow, making it easily accessible even if you only have time for a quick day trip. 

Things to do near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• Hike to Conic Hill at sunset.
• Get a taste of Scottish folklore by exploring the mysteries of Rob Roy’s Cave. 
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the 22+ islands of Loch Lomond (look out for wild wallabies!)
• Tour the Glengoyne or Loch Lomond distilleries.
• Explore the cozy pubs and funky boutiques in the quaint village of Luss.  

12. North Coast 500 Highway

One of the most iconic and scenic driving routes in Europe

The North Coast 500 or NC500 as it’s often called, is Scotland’s version of the iconic American Route 66. Driving this road takes you through 516 miles of the most incredible Scottish landscapes with stops along the way in many little villages and sights with plenty of things to see and do.

The NC500 loop starts and ends at Inverness Castle, although many people choose to drive shorter sections of it, mostly for the sake of time. Whether you have a day or two weeks, you’ll be wowed by the scenery, impressive castles, hikes, Highland cow sightings, national parks, and random roadside pubs. 

No matter how much time you have and whether you’re driving the entire loop or just a section, here’s one important piece of advice: don’t over schedule yourself and build in (lots of!) time for detours. 

Things to do along the North Coast 500

This is by no means a complete list. We have an entire guide to driving the North Coast 500 with much more detailed information if you’re interested in planning a road trip.

• Stroll the beaches of Black Isle.
• Tour the Glenmorangie Distillery (feel free to request your “wee dram” tasting to go if you’re hopping right back in the car!). 
• Stop at Falls of Shin , where you can watch salmon leaping out of the water. Grab some locally-made souvenirs and a slice of cake from the cafe before leaving.
• Take a picture with the iconic sign in John O’Groats , considered the northernmost point on mainland Scotland. 
• Explore Ugly Hollow, an impressive box canyon, on a kayaking or canyoneering tour. 

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

Old Drynie House, Black Isle : A true B&B with stunning water views, spacious private rooms, and a traditional, formal Scottish breakfast served in a group setting. 

Natural Retreats, John O’Groats : Luxury, self-catering eco-cottages with spectacular views of the ocean and Orkney Islands. Locally-sourced, sustainable materials are used throughout each cottage, alongside modern amenities including large flat-screen TVs with PS3 video game consoles. Onsite bicycle rentals are available. 

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite : A former historic shooting lodge turned hostel, this is a fantastic affordable accommodation option with both private and shared rooms, plus a campsite. 

The “Gateway to the Isles” and the seafood capital of Scotland

A quaint seaside town on Scotland’s west coast, Oban is considered the “Gateway to the Isles” but well worth a visit in its own right. It’s a quick (and very scenic!) detour if you’re traveling from Glasgow to the central Highlands, and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for island-hopping.

Offering a little something for everyone, Oban is renowned for its fresh-from-the-source seafood, variety of outdoor adventures, and unique cultural attractions. The fishing community is also home to one of the country’s oldest (and smallest!) distilleries — that in itself makes Oban one of the best places to visit in Scotland!

Things to do in Oban

• Pick up fresh seafood from the famous Green Shack , aka the Oban Seafood Hut. Bring it back to your vacation rental or request the local fishermen prepare it fresh onsite.
• Climb up to McCaig’s Tower, also known as McCaig’s Folly, a huge unfinished replica of the Colosseum perched on a hill overlooking the town and Oban Bay. 
• Tour the Oban Distillery , where you’ll get two tastings. 
• Go island-hopping through the Inner Hebrides — the isles of Barra, Coll, Iona, Kerrera, Lismore, and Mull are all easily accessible with a short ferry ride from Oban’s ferry port (and you can visit multiple islands in one day!).
• Book a puffin or other wildlife-watching tour with Basking Shark Scotland . 

Where to stay in Oban

The Perle Oban : This stylish waterfront hotel adds a touch of luxury to your Oban visit, but at a very reasonable pricepoint. The 1800s building is a local icon and guests can indulge at the spa or onsite Michelin-starred restaurant. The Oban Distillery is right next door!

The Kilchrenan Inn : A cozy inn in a picturesque, somewhat secluded location with well-equipped rooms, strong wi-fi, free parking, and an elaborate daily Scottish breakfast. 

Oban Youth Hostel : For travelers on a budget, this hostel is fantastic. It’s waterfront along Oban’s popular esplanade and within easy walking distance of the town center, rail station, and ferry port. Private and shared rooms are available, and perks include free parking and bicycle storage. 

14. Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebrides’ second-largest island

Largely considered something of a hidden gem because of the wild popularity of the slightly larger Isle of Skye, Mull definitely deserves a spot on your Scotland itinerary. Skye is the only isle larger than Mull in the Inner Hebrides, and it’s the fourth-largest Scottish island overall. 

You’ll find a great variety of shops and services in Tobermory, the capital town, but people primarily visit the Isle of Mull to enjoy slow living and take in the unique scenery, culture, and wildlife of the Inner Hebrides. 

Best of all, visiting Mull is as easy as taking a ferry ride from the mainland. Multiple daily trips are offered from Oban, Kilchoan, and Lochaline, and all three trips are under one hour. 

Insider tip: You can bring a vehicle over to the island on the ferry, but if you’re driving a rental car , be sure to check company policy to ensure doing that is permitted. 

Things to do in Isle of Mull

• Rent an e-bike from one of the local shops to explore the island on two wheels. 
• Tour and enjoy samples of Scotch at Tobermory Distillery , the only one on the island. 
• Take the ferry to the nearby Isle of Lunga, where puffins reside from April through August.
• Visit the Duart Castle, which has been continuously occupied by the prominent Clan MacLean for over 700 years. 
• Make the short hike to Aros Waterfall, starting from Tobermory.

Where to stay in Isle of Mull

Glengorm Castle : If you’ve always wanted to stay in a real castle (who doesn’t?!), here’s your chance. Set up as individual self-catering apartments within the castle, there’s a variety of rooms available ranging from studios to family-style flats with kitchens. Best feature: the library always has complimentary whiskey available!

Western Isles Hotel : Overlooking Tobermory Bay, this is one of the best locations for exploring Mull. Views are fantastic and guests rave about the food — full Scottish breakfast is included!

Salen Bay Campsite : To truly immerse yourself in the Isle of Mull, consider camping for a night or two. This secluded campground feels as if it’s on an island of its own, but is just walking distance from the town center. Elevated sites have 360-degree views, and you can rent kayaks or SUPs onsite. 

15. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK

With a nickname like the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” it goes without saying that there’s no shortage of epic adventure in Fort William. The area’s abundance of rivers and lochs position the town as a fantastic spot for water sports, and the surrounding mountains lend themselves to plenty of other outdoor recreation. 

That’s only the tip of the iceberg, though. Fort William has all the quintessentially Scottish elements as well, including historic castles, distilleries, and dramatic scenery. In fact, many scenes from Braveheart were filmed here!

Fort William is right next to the smaller village of Glencoe and both towns are easily accessible via train or car from Glasgow — just one more thing making it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

Things to do in Fort William

• Climb Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK (pack layers — there’s typically snow at the summit all year!). 
• Visit the West Highland Museum, with elements of quintessential Highlands culture on display, including weapons and bagpipes. 
• Check out the impressive architecture of St. Andrews church
• Watch boats navigate Neptune’s Staircase, a series of unique staircase locks. 
• Order a pint and pizza at Black Isle Bar .
• See the statue that marks the official end to the West Highland Way .
• Take a day trip from Fort William to the near by Glenfinnan Viaduct (see #16 on this list for more info!).

Where to stay in Fort William

The Garrison : One of the most unique (and dog-friendly!) accommodations in Fort William, this stylish hotel is a former police station. There are traditional hotel rooms, but guests can also book compact rooms that are converted jail cells!

Myrtle Bank Guest House : This 1890s Victorian villa offers B&B-style guest rooms in a gorgeous waterfront setting on Loch Linnhe. Views are fantastic, it’s just a five-minute walk from the center of town, and parking and wi-fi are included. 

Ben Nevis Inn (bunkhouse) : Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this hostel caters primarily to hikers. Ultra-affordable accommodation includes dormitory-style shared rooms or private rooms, and there’s a lively pub and restaurant upstairs. 

16. Glenfinnan

A popular stop on the Road to the Isles and the home of the famous “Harry Potter bridge”

Glenfinnan is an easy stop along the picturesque Road to the Isles , A830, which connects Fort William to the port of Mallaig. The town itself is small but mighty, offering an impressive punch combining history and scenery, but the 43-mile scenic drive is worth the trip in itself. 

Of course, there’s another major reason people make the trip to Glenfinnan, Potterheads will recognize this one! The Glenfinnan Viaduct, a raised railway 100 feet off the ground, served as the Hogwarts Express train in the second and third movies. 

Unsurprisingly, today the viaduct is widely known as the “Harry Potter bridge.”

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Photograph the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct train bridge (aka the “Harry Potter bridge”).
• Grab a sandwich and soup inside an old railroad car . 
• Visit the 60-foot Glenfinnan Monument, or the “Leaning Tower of Glenfinnan,” as the locals know it.
• Take a day trip to Old Forge Pub , named the world’s most remote bar by the Guinness Book of World Records (fair warning: there’s literally no actual road to the pub, so this is more of an adventure than it initially seems!). 

17. Stirling

Gateway to the Highlands

It may be a rather small city, but Stirling packs a serious punch. The city is located about one hour from Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Glasgow, situated right where the Scottish Lowlands meet the Highlands. 

Without a doubt, the main reason to visit Stirling is that it’s a passage on the journey to The Highlands. 

Outside of being a major thoroughfare for the Highlands, Stirling itself is actually a college town—and the entertainment and restaurant scenes reflect that. The younger, livelier population lends itself to buzzy bars and great nightlife, lots of great shopping, and events happening seemingly non-stop, year-round. 

Of course, if you’re looking for a quieter respite away from the rowdy party scene, there are also plenty of traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants. 

Things to do in Stirling

• Explore the cobblestone streets of Stirling’s Old Town 
• Head up to Stirling Castle for some panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands
• Visit the National Wallace Monument in honor of Scottish warrior William Wallace, i.e.; Braveheart.
• Briarlands Farm is especially family-friendly, offering a petting zoo, seasonal berry picking, go-karting and other activities.

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling Highland Hotel : Occupying a historic 1854 building, this former high school turned hotel is in one of the best parts of the city. The rail station and famed Stirling Castle are both within walking distance, and there’s a cheekily-named, school-themed restaurant and pub onsite (Scholars Restaurant and Headmaster’s Study Bar, respectively).

Friars Wynd Hotel : In the city center, this boutique hotel is well-equipped and extremely affordable. There’s a bar and lovely garden onsite, and guests rave about the hotel breakfast. 

Stirling Youth Hostel : Set on the grounds of a beautiful church perched above town and within walking distance of the Castle, this is an excellent affordable option for exploring Stirling. Choose from private en suite or shared rooms, and use the self-catering kitchen or order an inexpensive continental breakfast. 

18. Ullapool

Gateway to the Northern Highlands and a popular stop on the North Coast 500

A sleepy fishing village in far northern Scotland on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool is widely considered one of the most unspoiled places in the UK. If you’re looking to enjoy the country’s iconic rolling green landscape dotted with bodies of water at a slow pace, Ullapool belongs near the top of your list of places to visit in Scotland. 

Don’t let the quiet pace fool you, though — Ullapool is frequently named to lists of the best outdoor destinations in the UK and has a strong sense of adventure. The small town boasts a combination of rocky coastline, mountains, excellent hiking, and unique wildlife and photography opportunities. 

Inverness is just an hour away by car and there are ferries to the Outer Hebrides close by, plus, of course, it’s right along the North Coast 500, making Ullapool the perfect basecamp for exploring northern Scotland.

Things to do in Ullapool

• Rent a kayak or canoe from the Ullapool Pier and paddle Loch Broom. 
• Catch sunset over the loch from Rhue Lighthouse.
• Go tidepooling, crabbing, or skip rocks at Ardmair Beach. 
• Enjoy langoustines and other seafood fare at the iconic Seafood Shack .
• Grab a strong coffee and pastry at Cult Cafe .

Where to stay in Ullapool

The Arch Inn : Family-friendly beachfront accommodation with an onsite bar, restaurant, and open-air terrace offering stunning views. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the inn has direct access to popular hiking and cycling trails. 

Riverside Guest House : Laid-back, inn-style accommodations within walking distance of the ferry port and harbor. Guests receive complimentary access to the Lochbroom Leisure Centre, with a swimming pool and gym facilities. 

Ullapool Youth Hostel : A lovely waterfront option providing a fantastic value in the heart of Ullapool overlooking the harbor. Choose from private or shared rooms and enjoy communal kitchen and lounge facilities, plus wi-fi and bike storage. 

19. St. Andrews

An ancient seaside community known as the birthplace of golf

History buffs, architecture lovers, and fans of golf will all eagerly shout from the rooftops that St. Andrews is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. It was here that the game of golf was invented, way back in the 15th century. 

St. Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest and most prominent university — and the third-oldest in the modern world! The University of St. Andrews was established in the early 1400s, and many visitors call it a real-life Hogwarts. 

It should come as no surprise that there are a number of well-preserved medieval ruins in St. Andrews. What is a bit surprising, however, are the buzzy restaurants, pubs, and independent shopping boutiques in a town this tiny.

Things to do in St. Andrews

• Play a round of golf at the Old Course , the oldest golf course in the entire world (you must enter a ballot-style lottery to try and get a tee time). Guided walks are also available April through October. 
• If you can’t get a tee time at the Old Course, play at one of the city’s 10 other courses.
• Visit the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158 and at one time the country’s largest cathedral. 
• Indulge in a scoop at Jannetta’s Gelateria , a fourth-generation shop dishing out over 100 flavors. 
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the University of St. Andrews. 
• Tip a few back at Eden Mill , part gin distillery, part brewery, entirely unique.  

Where to stay in St. Andrews

Drumoig Golf Hotel : If golf is on your St. Andrews agenda, book a stay at the Drumoig, home to its very own 18-hole golf course. The onsite restaurant overlooks the 18th green, so you can get your golf fix even when you aren’t playing. 

The Spindle Guest Rooms : Best described as an upscale, adults-only hostel, The Spindle offers private rooms with shared common areas, like the lounge and terrace. The university is literally feet away and the entire area is very walkable. 

Rufflets : If you have a bit of wiggle room in your budget, Rufflets is a bit pricier than the other options but well worth the splurge. Set on a private 10 acres in a 1924 turreted mansion, everything about Rufflets is plush. If the weather is favorable, don’t miss an opportunity to dine in the award-winning gardens. 

A major hub of architecture and visual arts

Dundee is a perfect example of history seamlessly combined with contemporary living. Situated on Scotland’s east coast, the city itself is pretty compact and very walkable. Plus, it’s an absolute dream for lovers of architecture. 

The city boasts tons of architectural landmarks, museums, and galleries. And in 2015, Dundee was named a UNESCO City of Design, the very first in the UK. Another fun tidbit: Grand Theft Auto, the video game with a longtime, cult-like following, was created here in Dundee.

Like Edinburgh, Dundee also hosts numerous festivals every year. They play host to a fantastic Jazz festival each November, as well as one of the biggest food festivals in Scotland. Speaking of which—Dundee’s food and bar scenes are also quite trendy with plenty of options to keep you satisfied. 

Things to do in Dundee

• Visit the Dundee V&A Museum, dedicated entirely to design, also the first of its kind in Scotland. 
• Peruse the McManus Galleries.
• Check out the architecture at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Hike or drive to the top of Dundee Law, a long-dormant volcano, for an elevated 360-degree view of the city and river.
• Go whitewater rafting in nearby Angus

Where to stay in Dundee

Hotel Indigo : Overlooking the River Tay and close to the center of town, this chic hotel is in a building that was once a textile mill. It’s in a very walkable location and every room has a dedicated workstation. 

The Shaftesbury Hotel : To really immerse yourself in the architecture Dundee is so famous for, choose this hotel. In the vibrant West End, the 19th century hotel has several original features including arched windows, stone fireplaces, and high ceilings. 

Dundee Backpackers Hostel : Housed in a group of five well-preserved 16th century buildings with many period furnishings intact, this hostel has an elevated feel and is situated on bustling High Street. There are both private and shared rooms, plus communal dining room, kitchen, lounge, and game room. 

21. Aberdeen

One of the sunniest places in the UK and considered Scotland’s “castle capital”

Located near the coast in the northeastern part of the country, Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. Fun fact: It’s considered the sunniest city in all of the UK, getting up to 195 hours of sunshine in May alone! 

The city’s favorable weather is the cherry on top as Aberdeen is one of the only places in the UK that has a proper sandy beach. Steady winds make Aberdeen a great spot for surfing, kitesurfing, or sailing. 

There’s also an amusement park at the beach and, in true Scottish fashion, an ice skating rink. 

Nightlife is surprisingly lively for a laid-back beach town, and the restaurant scene is robust as well. There are golf courses everywhere you look (did you know golf was invented in Scotland?!), cool museums (many of which are totally free!), nice public parks, and lots of history to enjoy in Aberdeen. 

Things to do in Aberdeen

• Visit at least a couple of Scotland’s castles ! Start with Dunnottar Castle, one of the oldest and most formidable in the country, and the distinct pink Craigievar Castle.  
• Grab a beer from the wildly popular BrewDog’s main brewery DogTap in Ellon. 
• Visit Newburgh Beach to run up and down the sand dunes and check out the colony of hundreds of seals. 
• Stroll through Old Aberdeen for eye-popping old architecture (it was founded in the 1400s!).  
• Make a day trip to Cairngorms National Park (#9 on this list!). 

Where to stay in Aberdeen

Jurys Inn Aberdeen (Union Square) : In a fantastic, highly walkable location adjacent to the train station, tons of shopping, and a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes. The hotel also has signature Jurys Inn DREAM beds and deep soaking tubs. 

Malmaison Aberdeen : Set in a stately granite building that looks like a Victorian mansion, this posh hotel feels like an absolute steal. The rooms are plush and well-outfitted, and recent upgrades include a gym, wine tasting cellar, and Whiskey Snug bar. 

Deeside Holiday Park : If camping or glamping is more your style as you tour the Castle Capital or visit Cairngorms National Park, Deeside is perfect. Choose from tent or campervan sites, or book a glamping pod or traditional cabin-style holiday home. 

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you  like  the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our city guides for ideas of things to do (we’ve got a bunch of them!):

• Things to Do in Isle of Skye
• Things to Do in Inverness

But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually being  in  Scotland and taking our very own dream road trip!

We’ve curated what we think is the  perfect Scotland road trip , and we want you to be able to copy our route! 

In this 2-week itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique guesthouses along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $17 for an entire 2-week itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

With variable weather conditions, excellent hiking opportunities, and plenty of city life, there are a few things you definitely don’t want to forget when you’re packing for a trip to Scotland.

Check out the  exact items we recommend  for traveling in Scotland. 

• rain jacket (make sure it’s waterproof, not just water resistant)
• travel umbrella
• dry bag : to keep your valuables from getting wet on a hike
• Hiking backpack
• Hiking boots
• Lots of layers
• A couple nicer outfits for eating out
• Bug repellent: midges are common in Scotland, especially during the summer months
• Camera and  lightweight tripod  (optional)

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!?

Round up of the top places to visit in Scotland

Here’s a roundup of all the best places to visit in Scotland so you can see everything in one place.

• Cairngorms National Park
• Outer Hebrides
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
• North Coast 500
• Isle of Mull
• Fort William
• St. Andrews

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Dreamy Scotland Glamping Stays
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• How to Get from London to Edinburgh
• How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these places to visit in Scotland are going straight to the top of your list? Are you planning a trip to Scotland and have more questions? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (10) on “ 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland ”

Thank you. Very helpful

You are very welcome!

Hmm, finally something worth reading about Scotland ! Thanks for all the tips. I really should visit Scotland more-it looks just beautiful.

It’s so magical! Let us know if you are planning a trip!

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

We’re so happy to hear we inspired you to visit!

Pics are beautiful! Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

Thank you so much!

Where is the best place to go for food?

Oh, wow! There are so many good places. We are actually creating an article about Scottish foods and where to get order them. Check back soon!

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Think of Scotland, and you'll likely conjure up images of tartan-kilted Highlanders, skirling bagpipes, the Loch Ness Monster, lonely castles, golf, magnificent scenery, and shaggy Highland cattle. All of these are part of the mystique of this unique country, but also (apart from Nessie), a very real preview of what tourists can expect to see here.

You can explore Scotland by boat, on foot along its trails, on scenic train rides, or touring by car, and each experience will lead to unforgettable memories. History is everywhere as your sightseeing adventures take you to the impressive castles and fabled battlefields where clans fought, see you trace the footsteps of legendary kings and queens, or follow literary trails blazed by Robbie Burns and Sir Walter Scott .

Another of Scotland's great attractions is its solitude, with its remote stretches of heather-covered moors, secluded beaches , and wild, romantic mountains with their deep glens and lochs.

Whatever time of year you visit and wherever you choose to go, whether Scotland's vibrant cities , historic towns, or remote moors and islands, you'll find they are all filled with memorable things to see and do.

Plan your trip to some of the best places to visit in the UK with our list of the top attractions in Scotland.

1. Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile

2. loch lomond, 3. cruising loch ness and the caledonian canal, 4. the royal yacht britannia, edinburgh, 5. isle of skye and the inner hebrides, 6. stirling castle, 7. kelvingrove art gallery and museum, glasgow, 8. golf at st. andrews, 9. fort william & ben nevis, 10. riverside museum and tall ship, glasgow, 11. the scottish highlands, 12. isle of arran, 13. visit the site of the battle of culloden, 14. robbie burns country: the burns heritage trail, ayr, 15. the kelpies and the falkirk wheel, best time to visit scotland, more must-see destinations in scotland.

The stone towers and walls of Edinburgh Castle have dominated the Edinburgh skyline since the 13th century. Perched atop black basalt rock, it offers magnificent views of the city and a trip through Scotland's tumultuous history.

Highlights of Edinburgh Castle are the spectacular Crown Jewels, the famous Stone of Destiny (the Stone of Scone), and St. Margaret's Chapel, built in 1130 and the oldest building in Edinburgh. You'll enter the castle over a drawbridge across an old moat from the broad Esplanade , where the famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held every August. Bronze statues of legendary heroes William Wallace and Robert the Bruce seem to keep watch over the castle gates.

Below, a stroll along the Royal Mile remains one of the top free things to do in Edinburgh . Stretching down the steep escarpment, the Royal Mile leads to the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, another of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks. Be sure to allow some time in your Edinburgh itinerary to visit neighboring Holyrood Park, undoubtedly one of the city's top parks and green spaces to explore.

Lined by brick townhouses and historic landmarks, the Royal Mile is another highlight of a visit. Filled with small shops, kilt makers, tearooms, museums, and cafés, between its tall buildings, some reaching more than 10 stories on the downhill side, are narrow little alleys waiting to be explored. Called "winds," they weave between tiny hidden closes and are no end of fun.

Be sure to also include the National Museum of Scotland in your Edinburgh itinerary, too. One of Scotland's top attractions, this fun, free museum includes everything from medieval artifacts to displays relating to art and science.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Edinburgh

Idyllic Loch Lomond, just a short drive northwest of Glasgow, is Britain's largest lake. According to Scots author Walter Scott, it's also "The Queen of Scottish Lakes." With an abundance of trout, salmon, and whitefish as a lure for anglers; water sports adventures; and plenty of open space for hikers, this beautiful corner of Scotland is also a favorite day trip from the city .

Boat trips and cruises are popular things to do in Loch Lomond, as are lakeside rambles and longer treks up majestic Ben Lomond (3,192 feet). From here you'll enjoy spectacular views across the Trossachs National Park .

The latest attraction to be added here is Loch Lomond Shores , home to a great shopping mall selling local crafts, a farmers market, restaurants, and bike and boat rentals. A major draw here is the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium . In addition to its displays of native marine life, this family-friendly attraction houses Scotland's biggest shark tank. Weather permitting, be sure to pay a visit to the rooftop.

Loch Lomond is a good first stop on a tour from Glasgow along the Western Highland Way through the Argyll countryside to Fort William . Savor the romance of a Scottish country estate at Cameron House at the south end of the loch, where you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities that include its lakeshore golf course.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

Think of Loch Ness and you'll probably picture the mythical monster that, according to legend, has made this 23-mile-long loch home for countless centuries. The largest body of water in Scotland's Great Glen , Loch Ness is part of a waterway connecting the east and west coasts of Scotland.

It and three other lochs are joined together by the Caledonian Canal, which you can cruise on short excursions from, or on a six-hour voyage from one end to the other. These fun canal cruises from Dochgarroch take you through the canal locks that adjust the varying water levels.

The canal and each of the lochs is surrounded by some of the most beautiful Highland scenery, but no part is more scenic than Loch Ness itself, with the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle on its hillside above the water. The center of many ancient myths, the 12th-century castle fell victim to a fire some 500 years later.

The best views of the castle are from the water, and you can arrive by boat or drift past on a Loch Ness cruise. Fueling the Nessie legend with exhibits and accounts of sightings, Loch Ness Exhibition at Drumnadrochit Hotel also has interesting information on the geological formation of Loch Ness and the surrounding area. The castle, the canal, and Loch Ness are easily accessible from Inverness .

While getting to Loch Ness from Edinburgh or Glasgow can take a few hours, it's certainly worth the effort, especially if you plan on making a fun Scottish weekend break of it.

• Read More: Visiting Loch Ness: Top Attractions & Tours

For more than 40 years, the Royal Yacht Britannia was a floating royal residence, traveling more than 1,000,000 miles around the world. Glimpse the life of the royal family, their guests, and the crew as you explore Britannia's five main decks with an audio tour, visiting the Bridge, State Apartments and Royal Bedrooms, Crew's Quarters, and Engine Room.

You can also see the Rolls-Royce Phantom V that used to travel onboard, and stop for afternoon tea and cakes in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Newly added to the attraction in 2019 is the Fingal Hotel , offering luxury accommodations set in a former lighthouse tender berthed next to the royal yacht.

Address: Ocean Drive, Edinburgh

The largest of Scotland's inner isles, Skye is especially popular with birders, ramblers, and nature lovers. Its wild, romantic mountain scenery is marked by green valleys, caves, lonely glens, some of Scotland's best sandy beaches , and rushing waterfalls. It's a quite remarkable variety of beautiful scenery for an island that's just 50 miles long and never more than 15 miles wide.

The island also has the remains of primeval oak forests, as well as an abundance of wildlife that includes otters, seals, and at least 200 species of birds. Getting to Skye is easy, as it's connected to the mainland via a bridge. For added fun, you can also get here by ferry.

The other islands in the Inner Hebrides include, among others, Islay, Jura, Mull, Raasay, Staffa, and Iona. Getting to Iona is a bit more complicated, requiring two ferry rides but is tremendously rewarding. This is considered Scotland's "Cradle of Christianity" as it was here that St. Columba arrived from Ireland in the 6th century to spread the gospel.

A 12th-century church, atmospheric ruins of an abbey, and a carved stone memorial from the 10th century are among its attractions. It's also home to Scotland's oldest Christian cemetery , with graves of more than 60 Scottish kings, including Macbeth.

Make sure you allocate a little time to explore Portree, too. One of the prettiest small towns in Scotland , Portree's charming natural harbor is the place to buy some fresh seafood or simply watch the world go by. Better still, from here you can join a fun fishing trip to catch some fish of your own.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Isle of Skye

The palace of James V and childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots , Stirling Castle is one of the best-preserved Renaissance buildings in the UK. It's also an excellent day trip destination from Edinburgh , just an hour to the east, or from Glasgow , 45 minutes to the south.

While some earlier structures still stand, the castle's grand halls and rooms are carefully restored and furnished to their 1500s appearance, even to painstaking reproductions of its tapestries. Costumed interpreters interact with visitors to bring the castle and its history to life, and History Hunter programs on weekends are designed for young explorers.

Situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Stirling is famous for the Battle of Bannockburn , which saw Robert the Bruce defeat the English invaders in 1314, as well as the Battle of Stirling Bridge , a victory for Scottish independence secured by the legendary William Wallace. The splendid Bannockburn Heritage Centre offers excellent displays and exhibits regarding this important era.

Between Stirling and Bridge of Allan stands the majestic Wallace Monument , a spectacular 246-step tower with incredible views of the area. You'll also see a number of artifacts said to have belonged to the great Wallace himself.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Stirling

Since a fire devastated much of the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh at the Glasgow School of Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has become the primary destination for admirers of the Glasgow Style, a distinctive part of the Arts & Crafts movement and Art Nouveau styles of the early 20th century.

Created and opened shortly before the fire, the Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style Gallery includes several entire Mackintosh rooms, as well as works by other prominent artists of the movement.

Along with other notable treasures-a Van Gogh portrait, Bronze Age tools and jewelry from Arran and Kintyre, a 1944 Mark 21 Spitfire is also on display. You'll also want to see the magnificent 1901 organ used for daily free concerts -one of the museum's most popular exhibits is Salvador Dali's Christ of St. John of the Cross .

Visiting off-season? Glasgow's also one of the top places to visit in Scotland in winter , with its many museums and cultural attractions hosting special seasonal events and programs. Some of the city's parks and public spaces take on new life as skating rinks and Christmas markets, too.

Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

The Scots lay claim to many inventions, including the bicycle, postage stamps, telephones, and steam engines. But perhaps their most enduring invention is the game of golf. One of the lifetime dreams of dedicated golfers is to play the much-revered The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews .

Just 12 miles southeast of Dundee , it was founded in 1750 and recognized internationally as golf's ruling body. Today, St. Andrews regularly hosts the famous British Open at one of its many 18-hole courses, the most famous of which is the par-72 Old Course running alongside the rugged coast.

Although tee times are often reserved six months in advance, some are kept available by lottery two days in advance for those who don't have reservations. Worth visiting are the majestic old Clubhouse and the British Golf Museum , which documents the history of the "home of golf" from the Middle Ages to the present day.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in St. Andrews

The best place to explore Ben Nevis, Britain's tallest mountain, is from the picturesque town of Fort William.

Situated at the southeastern end of the Caledonian Canal, this coastal town can trace its roots back to the original fort built here in the 17th century. Although since long gone, the history of the fort can be explored in the West Highland Museum , along with sizable collections of paintings, Highland costumes, and weaponry.

A must-do is hop aboard The Jacobite steam train . Made famous by the Harry Potter movie franchise, the train follows the West Highland Line over the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Then, there's Ben Nevis. Easy to discern from Fort William on a clear day, it's an impressive sight, and one that draws many a-hiker, both amateur and hardcore alike. Despite its elevation, the ascent can be achieved in around 2.5 hours. And it's well worth it for the spectacular views, extending as far as 150 miles across the Scottish Highlands and as far as Ireland .

• Read More: Attractions & Things to Do in Fort William

One of Scotland's most visited attractions, the free Riverside Museum in Glasgow gathers together the history of transportation by land and water in an eye-catching new venue. During the course of a visit, you'll see trams, locomotives, buses, horse-drawn carriages, and vintage cars, along with ships and other models.

A highlight is the authentic reconstruction of 1938 Glasgow streets , with shops you can enter, and platforms leading up to all the locomotives on display. In all, more than 20 interactive displays and 90 large touch screens add images, recollections, and films that bring added meaning to the collections.

Outside on the River Clyde, you can board the S. S. Glenlee , a tall ship built in 1896 . It has the distinction of being the only Clyde-built ship still sailing in Britain.

Address: 100 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow

The Scottish Highlands have a mystique born of rugged, untamed landscapes and a long history, at once violent yet romantic. Sparsely inhabited, these mountains and rocky shores are loved equally by hikers and bikers and by those who enjoy fishing, golf, sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, and other outdoor adventures in Britain's largest area of outstanding natural beauty.

Sprinkled through it are lovely little villages and towns with lodging and eating places. Stop in the tiny coastal village of Dornoch to see its cathedral and castle ruins, and in John o'Groats, overlooking the Pentland Firth, where a much-photographed sign proclaims it the northernmost point of Britain . From here, you're 874 miles from the country's southernmost point at Land's End in Cornwall.

If you've rented a car and have plenty of time on your hands, you can explore the Scottish Highlands via a fun new tourist route, the North Coast 500 . While you could do it faster, we'd advise you spend at least five days to a week to see everything there is to see along this spectacular driving route.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Inverness & the Scottish Highlands

The lovely Isle of Arran is called "Scotland in Miniature" for good reason. This picture-perfect island off the country's west coast mirrors the landscapes of the entire country in an area of scarcely 166 square miles.

Here, you can find rolling moors, rugged mountains, sandy beaches, fishing harbors, castles, and golf courses, all less than an hour's ferry ride from Glasgow. While you could see some of the best bits of Arran as a day trip, you'd do better to allow a day or two's sightseeing to make sure you get the most from your visit.

Best of all, there's no need for a car because buses run regularly around the island, connecting its main attractions. Although its highlights—including Brodick Castle and Goat Fell Mountain (2,866 feet)—can be visited in a day, including the ferry ride, you could easily spend a few days exploring this little sampler of Scotland. And you really, really should.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on the Isle of Arran

Few tourist attractions in Scotland yank the heartstrings in quite the same way as the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was here in April 1746 that Scotland's last attempt at attaining its independence from England by force was quashed in what came to be known as the Battle of Culloden, although many consider it a massacre.

The state-of-the-art visitor's center is where you should begin your visit. In addition to its excellent displays offering perspective along with first-hand accounts of this fateful day in Scottish history, there's a superb immersive film that outlines the key events as they unfolded. There's also a rooftop viewing platform overlooking the battlefield itself.

Be sure to spend some time wandering these grounds themselves. Highlights include a number of Scottish clan gravestones; a Memorial Cairn; as well as the Cumberland Stone, which marks the place from which the English commanded the battlefield. There are also a few surviving buildings, including the Old Leanach Cottage.

While the site is easy enough to get to from Inverness—it's less than 15 minutes east by car—those who prefer letting someone else do the heavy lifting may wish to combine the attraction as part of an organized tour.

One of the best, especially for fans of the hit TV show, is Diana Gabledon's Outlander Experience Tour. In addition to Culloden, these fun Scottish tours take in other major attractions including Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.

Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness

No visit to Scotland is complete without visiting at least one or two sites associated with the country's most famous son: poet Robbie Burns. A great way to experience a little of Burns' life and times—as well as see some of the most beautiful parts of the country—is along the Burns Heritage Trail.

Start at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr. Here you'll find the perfectly preserved thatched house where the poet was born and spent much of his childhood.

Other Burns-related landmarks to visit include a monument and gardens created to commemorate his life and time in Ayr, a collection of his most important writing, and the 16th-century Auld Kirk where his father is buried.

From Ayr this circular tour heads south to Dumfries . Here, you can see the excellent Robert Burns House where the celebrated poet spent the last four years of his life and where he died in 1796, aged just 36. Now a museum displaying Burns-related memorabilia, this attraction portrays a vivid portrait of his life, and his final resting place is just a short distance away in St. Michael's Churchyard.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ayr

An easy 25-minute drive south of Stirling, you'll find yourself staring at two of the most incredible artworks in the UK: the Kelpies. Standing over 100 ft high, these two water horse statues are the centerpiece of a massive public park in Falkirk called The Helix . Built in 2013, the park and its twin kelpies are must-photograph landmarks for those who enjoy a good selfie.

Be sure to also visit the Falkirk Wheel. Just 15 minutes' drive west of the kelpies, this impressive 115-foot structure was built to connect the Clyde, Forth, and Union canals. As much fun as it is to watch it in action from the ground, hop aboard one of the regular one-hour boat rides that will take you up and down this remarkable feat of engineering.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Falkirk

No matter when you visit Scotland, prepare to get wet. It rains a LOT here! The upside of all this moisture can be found in the lush and vibrant hills, bright green grasses, and beautiful spring blossoms.

If you're hoping to enjoy more comfortable temperatures and a little break in all that precipitation, the best time of year to visit Scotland is during the s pring (late March through June) or Autumn (September through November) . April is the driest month, so keep that in mind if you're hoping to explore without having to change shoes and socks.

Visiting during this time ensures you won't shiver as much as you would during frigid December and January. It also helps you avoid the busier (and much pricier) high season (a.k.a. June, July, and August), with its tour buses crowding the most charming small towns and inns that are packed to capacity.

You'll miss the jam-packed summer festivals like the Edinburgh International Festival , the Edinburgh Fringe Festival , and the Highland Games . And you won't be able to watch the whales migrate, but you will be mesmerized by Scotland's natural beauty bursting onto the scene in the form of buds, blossoms, and fall foliage. Plus, you'll be able to experience it all in a quieter, more tranquil setting.

Another bonus: attractions that close mid-October have reopened by late-March, and those that enforced reduced hours during the colder, darker months are back up and running at full throttle.

If you're worried about hitting cooler temperatures by avoiding summer travel, keep in mind that July and August only reach highs of 66 degrees Fahrenheit, so it's not like you're going to be sweating it out on a beach.

Scotland's Cities: As you tour around Scotland, you'll inevitably find places you'll want to spend more time, digging deeper into the country's fascinating culture and seeing more of its top attractions. For example, you could easily spend an entire vacation exploring the sites in Edinburgh without seeing everything. In Glasgow , enjoying the city's many art treasures and its vibrant cultural and entertainment scene could also take a few days.

Rural Scotland: Both lovely Loch Lomond and fabled Loch Ness have more things to do around their shores, and the Scottish Highlands are filled with places to pursue outdoor sports. There's more than golf around St. Andrews , and you can island-hop through the Hebrides by ferry and bus.

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The 20 most beautiful islands to visit in Scotland

By Kimberly Grant

Scattered off the coast of mainland Scotland are hundreds of diverse islands with remote stretches of white sands, towering mountains, charming blackhouse villages and incredible wildlife. Kimberley Grant, co-author of Wild Guide Scotland, uncovers some of the most beautiful places in Scotland .

The most southerly inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides, Vatersay is a small peaceful island linked to Barra by a causeway. It is an unusual shape, deeply indented by the sea on both sides with only a slender strip of land keeping the island together, and boasts a series of amazing beaches, backed by undulating dunes and colourful machair grasses and flowers. Vatersay Bay in particular is a great spot for picnicking and wild swimming on calm days.

Pictured: Vatersay Bay, Vatersay

The most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides is one of the windiest yet sunniest places in Scotland, due to the moderating influence of the warm Gulf Stream. Tiree is known for its pristine beaches, popular with windsurfers, and its fertile machair land with many crofts. The island’s architecture includes traditional blackhouses and white houses, many retaining their charming thatched roofs, as well as unique ‘pudding houses’ where white mortar contrasts with dark stone.

This sub-arctic archipelago is so far north that during summer it is bathed in near-perpetual sunlight, a phenomenon that blankets the islands in a silver sheen at midnight - the ‘simmer dim’. The islands’ long, snaking coastlines have towering sea cliffs, unspoilt beaches and an abundance of wildlife including puffins, otters and orcas. Their vast, barren landscapes and narrow voes (sea lochs) make it ideal for long walks, sailing and fishing. Read more about visiting Shetland.

Pictured: Muckle Roe, Shetland

The isle’s rugged coastline is characterised by dramatic cliffs, natural arches and sandy bays facing scattered rocky outcrops and small islands. Most visitors sail into the colourful harbour village of Tobermory to sample fresh seafood and visit local shops before heading north to Glengorm Castle or one of the island’s beaches. Inland, Mull’s highest peak Ben More overlooks sea lochs where white-tailed sea eagles can be seen. The south-east holds more white beaches, famous for their pink granite skerries and stunning sunsets, that are also perfect for kayaking.

Pictured: Fionnphort quarry, Mull

A scattered archipelago of around 70 islands, Orkney encompasses both ancient wonders and natural beauty. On the main island, lovers of archaeology can visit the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ – a group of 5,000-year-old sites that include the preserved village of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar stone circle. Another of the island’s unique spots is Hoy, with its scattered woodland, steep valleys, high cliffs and the famous Old Man, a withered red sandstone sea stack.

Pictured: Rackwick Bay, Orkney

The second-largest island in the Small Isles has a thriving green community that generates almost 95 per cent of its electricity from renewables. There are lots of sites to explore, from the Singing Sands beach that looks out to Rùm to the dark Cathedral and Massacre caves, the abandoned village of Grulin or the island’s most distinctive sight, the near vertically-sided volcanic plug of An Sgurr that looms high above the southern end of the island.

Eilean Shona

This tranquil, private tidal island in the calm waters of Loch Moidart is thought to be where JM Barrie wrote the screenplay for a film adaptation of Peter Pan. There are a number of holiday cottages to rent, including the Old Schoolhouse and Sawmill cottage. The island has plenty of varied walking paths that lead through tranquil woodlands, up hills and to secluded beaches for picnics and swimming.

Pictured: Eilean Shona

This is a delightful little island with its own castle and beach airport where you can watch planes take off and land on the sand between tides. Inland, it is barren and mountainous – on the highest hill is a statue of the Madonna and child, known locally as ‘Our Lady Star of the Sea’. Additionally, there are high cliffs in the east and lovely beaches and bays in the west for swimming and surfing.

Pictured: Barra Airport, Barra

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

This is one of Scotland’s most recognisable islands, with sun, cloud and mist shrouding its magnificent mountains and extraordinary landslips, The Quiraing and The Storr. With its pretty pastel-coloured houses, glittering ‘Fairy Pools’ and miles of coastline, the island is a photographer’s dream. To glimpse Scotland at its most atmospheric, visit the headlands with lonely lighthouses such as Neist Point, or the majestic Loch Coruisk which sits at the foot of the towering Black Cuillin mountains. Read about the best things to do on Skye .

Pictured: The Quiraing, Skye

This small, isolated archipelago of Hebridean islands, now a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, rises dramatically from the storm-tossed North Atlantic. Its largest island Hirta was permanently inhabited until 1930 and the ghostly remains of the old village can still be seen down by the bay. Hirta also has the highest sea cliffs in the UK which, along with the other magnificent jagged sea stacks, are home to one of the world’s largest colonies of gannets.

Pictured: Sea Stacks, St Kilda

Mainly a National Nature Reserve with a mountainous landscape, Rùm is perfect for ramblers and animal lovers. Visitors arrive by passenger ferry at the small community-run hamlet of Kinloch and its eccentric castle before making their way out into the wilderness. There is a wide variety of habitats to explore — the volcanic peaks of the Cuillin, grasslands and lochans peppered with rare plants, sea cliffs and hidden bays with bothies from which stags and otters can be spotted.

Pictured: Bloodstone Hill, Rum

Long and thin, Jura has only one main road that runs from the ferry port to the main settlement of Craighouse, then continues along the east of the island. The rest of the island is largely untouched, except by deer which greatly outnumber people, and the distinctive Paps of Jura rise above miles of blanket bog and freshwater lochans. Along the coast, you can visit remote bays and bothies or join a skipper on a boat trip to the Corryvreckan whirlpool.

Pictured: Paps of Jura, Jura

Lewis and Harris

The largest of the Outer Hebrides , Lewis and Harris are two parts of the same island. Lewis’s peaty lands in the north have a rich history with interesting sites including old blackhouse villages, brochs and standing stones. To the south, Harris is more mountainous, rugged and almost lunar-like. Some of the most spectacular machair plains and the best beaches in the UK can be found here, among them the pristine Luskentyre sands which stretch out for miles.

Pictured: Luskentyre, Harris

This uninhabited island is best known for its unique geological features and birdlife. The most magical spot on the island is Fingal’s Cave, a large sea cave flanked by hundreds of hexagonal basalt columns. The eerie sounds created by the waves under the arched roof earned it the Gaelic name Uamh-Binn, the ‘cave of melody’. Elsewhere on the island, the cliffs and grassy slopes provide nesting sites for puffins, razorbills and guillemots during spring and early summer.

Pictured: Fingals Cave, Staffa

Widely referred to as ‘Scotland in miniature’, Arran is rugged in the north, with a softer landscape to the south. Inland there are dramatic peaks, sweeping glens and verdant forests to explore, where you might spot red squirrels or golden eagles. The island’s northernmost village Lochranza is backed by hills and set on the shore of a small sea loch. There’s a ruined castle and golf course, often populated by red deer, and along the coastline are cliffs, caves and beaches where otters and seals can be seen.

Pictured: Glen Sannox, Arran

With its high hills, peat bogs, beaches and vast numbers of fresh and saltwater lochs, North Uist is a place of contrasts. From Eaval, the highest hill on the island, there are views over the maze of lochans which dominate the landscape and the other islands in the ‘Long Chain’. On the west coast are stunning crescents of white sands, high dunes and machair plains that burst with flowers in summer.

Ulva and Gometra

Separated from Mull by a narrow inlet, Ulva’s varied landscape takes in peaceful woodlands, open moors, coastal cliffs and cleared villages. Ulva is home to the Boathouse seafood restaurant, which specialises in local shellfish, and the restored thatched Sheila’s Cottage. From here, visitors can pick up several waymarked walking trails, one of which leads to the remote island of Gometra. Linked by a small bridge, and in low tide by a beach, it has spectacular scenery with views across to the Treshnish Isles.

Pictured: Ulva

With its famous abbey and peaceful atmosphere, this small but beautiful island is a popular place for spiritual retreats, attracting people from all over the world. The many different habitats, including sandy beaches, cliffs, rocks, fields and bogs, mean there is a wealth of flora and fauna. The island is rich in wildflowers and birds such as the rare corncrake and puffins. Off the coast, an abundance of sea life including three different species of dolphin can be viewed from one of the many accessible inlets.

The smallest of the four inhabited Small Isles, Muck has a low-lying, fertile landscape. Much of the island is used for livestock and creative locals use wool and other materials for traditional crafts, to make rugs and clothing. Along the coastline, there are incredible white-sand beaches for watching the sunset, visiting the small Muck ponies or keeping an eye out for whales and porpoises.

This is one of the most charming islands in the Slate Islands group lying off the west coast of mainland Scotland. It is the smallest permanently inhabited island in the Inner Hebrides and to get there, visitors need to request the short ferry by pressing a switch that sounds a klaxon at day or turns a light on after dark. Easdale is home to traditional white-washed cottages, a small pub and disused slate quarries, now full of clear blue water and perfect for wild swimming.

Pictured: Slate Quarries, Easdale

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17 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on February 8, 2024

At first glance, the Scottish landscape is harsh: foreboding fortresses atop hills and cliffs, the desolate moors… But spend some time here and you’ll quickly realize Scotland has its own unique beauty: breathtaking highlands, craggy coastlines, and blue lakes and rivers just made for fishing.

Among the otherworldly peaks, the deep valleys, and the sprawling lochs are ancient castles, Neolithic ruins, and the footprints of Vikings. Between them all are adventures that come in droves, some on foot and some with your foot on the gas pedal.

Map of Scotland

Among the best places to visit in Scotland are major cities such Edinburgh and Glasgow which still evoke that Scottish charm. They tell tales of the years gone, of struggle and the joys that come as the underdog. Ferries take you to surrounding islands where rugged coastlines look like works of art. So too do the charming towns filled with welcoming smiles and cozy pubs.

17. Isle of Arran

Catch a short ferry from Ardrossan, near Glasgow, to discover one of Scotland’s best islands . The Isle of Arran encompasses much of what makes Scotland such a magical destination. You’ll find eye-catching coastlines, lush open fields, craggy peaks, and towns that immediately feel like home.

The best way to see the island’s coast is to walk along the Coastal Way. It’s an epic multi-day trek, but travelers can also enjoy a bite-sized piece. On the journey, you’ll wander through fishing villages, over cliffs, and down to caves. Then there are several ancient sites and wide open beaches.

Without having to raise a sweat, driving around the island is relatively pain-free. You’ll get from end to end fairly quickly, leaving ample time to experience the best spots. These include the Brodick and Lochranza castles. The former is in the town of Brodick, a charming enclave with pubs and cafes that serve up the beloved treat called tablet.

16. Ben Nevis

Every 12 months, over 100,000 hikers make their way to Ben Nevis. As they approach the trailhead, they take their last steps before beginning their climb to the top of the UK’s tallest mountain.

In the summer months, the climb up Ben Nevis is achievable for many travelers. But once that snow falls it can turn into a treacherous, high alpine climb that requires mountaineering experience.

Alas, there’s more to this area than just climbing to the peak. Alongside Ben Nevis are Càrn Mòr Dearg and Aonach Beag, which complete the Three Peaks. Those not interested in a climb can instead settle for the amazing, rocky, and wild path that takes you through Steall Gorge on your way to the 120m Steall Ban waterfall.

15. Shetland Islands

Straddling the North Atlantic and the North Sea, the Shetland Islands are a wild archipelago embellished with dramatic scenery. There are around 100 islands all up, with the vast majority uninhabited. That leaves a classic rugged Scottish landscape to explore.

As you’d expect, not every isle is the same. Some have marvelous white sand beaches, such as Yell, Unst, and the South Mainland. Others feel tremendously wild, with soaring cliffs that suggest no man or woman is welcome here.

The Vikings didn’t seem to mind, however. The Shetland Islands have some spectacular archaeological sites that take you back to the Middle Ages and even the Neolithic era. Lerwick, the Shetland’s major town, harbors much of this past while being the kind of maritime town that quickly steals your heart.

14. Aberdeen

The granite nature of Aberdeen becomes immediately obvious as you wander down her old streets. Often grey and gothic, these grandiose public buildings are a poignant reminder of Aberdeen’s past as the granite capital of the world. Some of the best examples are Music Hall and Marischal College. The latter being a striking gothic revival construction with towering spires.

Along these very streets, you’ll take in the aromas floating out of some of Scotland’s best eateries. For genuine Scottish cuisine, it’s hard to pass up Aberdeen. Its mix of rich farmlands and coastline provides a mouthwatering mix of Angus beef and seafood.

Now well-fed, take in the lively museum scene that includes the Maritime Museum and the Aberdeen Art Gallery. But don’t depart before checking out the Balmoral Castle, the old hangout for the British Royal Family.

13. Outer Hebrides

If it wasn’t for the icy wintry winds that whip through the Outer Hebrides, we’d forgive you for thinking you were far away from Scotland. Eye-catching emerald waters lap the ivory beaches here, much like they do in the Caribbean.

Off the northwest coast of Scotland, the Outer Hebrides are roughly a dozen islands all close together. Inhabited in Mesolithic times, there are some remarkable archaeological sites here, including the Calanais Standing Stones. These are similar to the younger, more famous Stonehenge.

Medieval churches and clan roadhouses are remnants of a former era. But the Outer Hebrides is a place that holds tight to its Gaelic roots. The language rings through the local tunes, craftwork, and jewelry.

Getting here is an adventure, with several ferries, or a prop plane needed. But the journey is worth it to discover an unexpected beauty and ample Gaelic culture.

12. Cairngorms National Park

Scotland’s largest national park, Cairngorms National Park, encompasses all that is great about the Highlands. Yes, as a national park, you can expect pristine, untouched wilderness. It ticks that box. But it wouldn’t be the Highlands without a touch of history and the former footprints of ancient clans.

Lochs and rivers combine to be the lifeblood of the park, enriching the dense, old-growth forest that surrounds them. Some of Scotland’s biggest mountains, including Ben Bacdui and Braeriach rise up out of the valley. With miles of trails throughout, it’s an easy, yet adventurous, park to explore.

But you won’t always have to walk. In fact, one of the best experiences here is the 145km road that snakes through landscapes shaped by glaciers, across valleys, and over peaks. It’s the highest public road in Scotland.

11. Fort William

Deep in the Scottish Highlands, Fort William provides the sort of access to this region that few towns could only dream of. The location allows Fort William to be a fantastic base for outdoor adventures. Something that should pique the interest of active travelers.

Embellished with lush windswept fields and sporadic ridgelines, Fort Williams is always fun to come home to. Cute cafes dot the cobbled streets that are encased by old townhouses. Between them lie the warmth of the town pub, historic hotels, and restaurants. Its location on Loch Linnhe also lends a hand to some later afternoon boat rides.

After waking up refreshed, you’ll have a full slate of adventures ahead of you. The big one, of course, is Ben Nevis. As the tallest peak in the United Kingdom, it forms the central part of the Three Peaks. It’s a challenge that brings folks from all over and is a peak travelers with decent fitness can attain.

10. St Andrews

The motherland of golf, St Andrews, has a history in sport, culture, and education. Set in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews stands along the edge of the North Sea. Its coastline rises out of the bristling waters, providing some of the country’s best coastline.

Golf fan or not, it’s easy to appreciate the sport’s legendary connection to St Andrews. Play here dates back to the 16th century and there remain seven courses in town. The most famous is the Old Course, known to be the first of its kind in the world.

Non-golf fans can still explore the historic course. It’s all the more reason to see the Swilcan Bridge, which is an incredible 700 years old. You’ll find even more amazing history throughout St Andrews, from its celebrated university to the cathedral. The latter lying in ruins with what’s left approaching its 900th birthday.

9. Inverness

As the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is the perfect base from which to explore. But while you’ll spend plenty of time outside of the city, there’s ample reason to spend a few days close by.

It wouldn’t be a Scottish city without a bit of history and you’ll find plenty here. You could easily spend a day wandering the Old Town. Many buildings date back to the 1700s. The Old High Church, Inverness Cathedral, and the lively Victorian Market will capture your imagination. To dive further into the past, visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

The nearby Eden Court is laden with great galleries and theater venues. You won’t have a shortage of distilleries either, including Speyside, home to Glenfiddich. Afterwards, balance the whiskey with some local cuisine. Inverness is a great place to experience the classic Scottish fry-up.

8. Orkney Islands

Epic Scottish coastlines, 5000-year-old historic sites, and old-time whiskeys can be found on the Orkney Islands. Just off the tip of Scotland, this collection of 70 isles quickly captures your attention. Most are uninhabited, worn away by the restless wind. Those that evoke a mystical charm and a connection to the Stone Age.

The journey here isn’t quick. But it’s instantly rewarded by a smattering of islands that are quiet and mostly untouched by the tourist path. On the main island, you’ll find dozens of paths that lead to ancient Neolithic sites that have come under the umbrella of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most prominent is the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle from around 2,500 BC.

Away from those sites, you have a stunning coastline to explore. Thankfully, a 16km path carries you along the western coast, teetering on the edge as you go. Travelers can also complete the world’s shortest flight by flying 2 minutes from Westray to Papa Westray.

7. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

The largest of the Scottish lochs , Loch Lomond is a stunning blue lake surrounded by dense forests. This greenery is only interrupted by equally charming towns, such as Balloch, Drymen, and Arrochar.

After taking a morning break at either of the three towns, continue to the water’s edge, where another world begins. Loch Lomond is a part of the Trossachs National Park that boasts some of Scotland’s best, untouched scenery. Such is the size of the park most Scottish folks live within an hour’s drive.

The breathtaking scenery combines with great access to provide a must-do experience for travelers. Start off with a swim in the famous loch, or stay a bit drier on a kayak or scenic cruise. Afterward, hike along a section of the West Highland Way or wander through the oaky paths of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

6. Stirling

It may be small, but Stirling has a history that punches above its weight. Once the home of Renaissance kings and queens, Stirling has maintained that illustrious status. It’s done so through the preservation of its charming streets and eye-catching architecture.

In central Scotland, Stirling is littered with prominent landmarks. Here, the Stirling Castle from the 1100s stands ever proudly atop the craggy hill looking down on its loyal community. Once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, the tales of Scottish rebellion ring throughout its hallowed halls.

Add on some time spent at the Chapel Royal, The Royal Palace, and the Great Hall to decipher centuries of clan and British conflict. Then complete the journey with a visit to the National Wallace Monument, which stands on the victorious grounds of the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

As you venture further out, you’ll cross paths with charming old villages before eventually reaching the beautiful Trossachs National Park.

Befitting its name, which translates to “dear green place”, Glasgow boasts dozens of public parks and gardens. They are spread throughout the city, connecting you with the other highlights, such as Glasgow’s epic music scene and a love for museums.

Some of the best parks provide lively views of Glasgow, or maybe even a close-up glance of highland cattle. As it is Pollok Country Park. In between is a city with plenty of character. It mixes poignant history, with a touch of working-class ethic and subculture.

A UNESCO City of Music, travelers will never be short of a live event to enjoy. This love for creativity and expression has fed into the city’s breadth of galleries and museums. Highlights include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the Riverside Museum.

You can also add an equally vibrant dining scene into the mix. Modern creations mix in with old Scottish cuisine to provide a cuisine that matches Glasgow’s personality.

4. Glencoe Valley

The dramatic scenery of Glencoe showcases some of the best landscapes that the Highlands has to offer. History, tales of triumph and defeat lie in every blade of grass that dances with the cold Scottish wind. The resounding beauty that seeps into your core is a stark contrast to the 17th-century massacres that occurred right here.

The spectacular Highlands scenery poses a powerful presence. There’s such a deep green to every rolling hill that soars into the low-hanging clouds. Rods course through them like a hot knife, leading you to feel small among the buttressed peaks.

Depart your vehicle and embark on the Lost Valley walk, a 4-kilometer out-and-back trek that puts you in the footsteps of ancient clans people from the era’s past. For something equally scenic but more relaxing, head to Glencoe Lochan, a sprawling lake at the base of the towering Pap of Glencoe Peak. Finish off by the fire at Clachaig Inn and watch the clouds slowly swallow the valley.

3. Isle of Skye

Like Glencoe Valley, the Isle of Skye is a conglomerate of some of Scotland’s most captivating landscapes. Rugged, moss-covered peaks rise out of ancient valleys fed by icy, tumbling waterfalls. In the early hours mists rise, revealing a new day, while at night the stars sparkle with aplomb.

You don’t have to go search for any of this when on the Isle of Skye. It’s all around you as you make your way between traditional fishing villages. Where you’ll cross paths with Highland cows and search for archaeological sites.

The Isle of Skye is the second-largest Scottish island. Its rich history runs deep from clan warfare and historic rebellions that changed the course of national history. Castles lie in wait, small towns dot the coastline like breadcrumbs and the windswept beaches are great for families.

Top of off by bagging an epic viewpoint of the Old Man of Storr, one of the world’s more unique rock formations.

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh , reflects the changing seasons. In the spring, the rise of daffodils coat the parks and fields in a blaze of yellow. Summer soaks the city in blue skies and the old sandstone buildings glimmer in the low-hanging sun. Come the winter, fog wafts above the Royal Mile and candle-like light of cozy pubs provides residents with a welcome escape.

Edinburgh is a magical place to visit. One that has kept its remarkable aura amid these changing times. The cobbled inner-city streets disperse into narrow laneways called winds. Follow these to take a trip back to the 1700s and beyond to the Middle Ages.

Highlights of the capital include the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Grassmarket sqaure, and masterful Edinburgh Castle. From the castle you’ll bask in some of Edinburgh’s best views.

If you’re traveling in summer, you can expect a full slate of events and festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

See also: Where to Stay in Edinburgh

1. Loch Ness

Scotland is the land of lochs, and none is more famous than Loch Ness. It’s here that the legend of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, was born. Could it be you who finally spots the beast after so many years?

Behind Loch Lomond, Loch Ness is the largest inland body of water in Scotland. The water runs for miles while being completely enveloped by lush, green rolling hills. As majestic as the loch is, it’s the gems along the banks that flesh out the experience.

Spanning from Fort Augustus to Inverness, a drive along the western shores is impeccably scenic. About halfway along, you’ll arrive at Urquhart Castle, one of the most memorable in Scotland. With the Loch Ness as a stunning backdrop, you can wander this 13th-century castle, and discover rooms and the towers from which you have the best spot to see Nessie.

If you want to get really close, Loch Ness has several points from which you can take a (very) refreshing dip.

Scotland Travel Video

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27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Scotland

12 Most Beautiful Scottish Islands

10 Most Beautiful National Parks and Reserves in Scotland

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

23 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland

8 Most Beautiful Regions of Scotland

15 Most Charming Small Towns In Scotland

10 Most Scenic Lakes in Scotland

Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland

15 Best Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland

Reader interactions.

December 23, 2020 at 2:38 pm

I spent the academic year 1996-1997 in Aberdeen at the university. It was love at first sight. Besutiful scenery, wonderful seafront, grey buildings glittering after rain, charming old town… Sometimes at nights I return and re-live some of the magic.

January 9, 2020 at 10:45 pm

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

July 13, 2019 at 7:24 pm

I had the pleasure of visiting Scotland from England in 1956 when I was just 15 years old with my parents and we stayed in Dalkeith but visited Edinburgh and furthest north we went was a Brechin ; It was in the summertime and was one of the hottest summers at the time I can remember. I now live in Australia and would love to revisit this beautiful country.

July 13, 2019 at 3:42 am

Ice lived in scotland all my life. Inverness is NOT the gateway to the Highlands, it’s actually Perth, which is about 100 miles south of Inverness. Scotlands highest mountains are all between Perth and Inverness, not after Inverness.

January 9, 2019 at 2:30 pm

I like Glencoe. Was lucky enough to spend a week in a caravan at Black Corries car park. This leads to the Lairig Gartain and stunning views of Glen Etive. There is also the Aonach Egich ridge walk. Kinlochleven shelters behind. Visitors can feel the history of the McDonald’s and the Campbell’s. The most famous film depicting their epics struggle, being Braveheart.

March 6, 2017 at 10:02 am

Hello, I live in Scotland since 12 years, and I think you may add Pitlochry, Dundee, Gairloch and some beaches in North of the country like Oldshomore one.

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20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your life

Posted: January 30, 2024 | Last updated: January 30, 2024

Home to enigmatic valleys, mountainside castles, and wild beaches, Scotland is a breathtaking destination rich in history and intrigue. From the Highlands and Edinburgh to Loch Ness, discover 20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your lifetime.

Discover Edinburgh

It’ll be love at first sight with Edinburgh’s romantic architecture and beautiful cobblestone streets. From climbing Arthur’s Seat to strolling through Dean’s Village, you’ll never be bored in Scotland’s capital. A visit to Edinburgh Castle and a stroll along the Royal Mile are a must for those wishing to learn more about the country’s fascinating past. Finally, be sure to enjoy a picnic and breathtaking view of the city on Calton Hill.

Dive into the world of Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans are in for a treat when they visit Scotland as J.K. Rowling drew inspiration from numerous legendary sites. Start by climbing aboard the Hogwarts Express (actually called the Jacobite Steam Train) and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Highlands. From there, you’ll see Loch Shiel and the mountains over which Buckbeak and Harry Potter flew in the third film of the series. Then, for a stroll along Diagon Alley, head to Victoria Street in Edinburgh.

Explore the Highlands on the North Coast 500

A destination par excellence for a Scottish road trip, the North Coast travels through the Highlands for over 800 kilometres (500 miles). Discover incomparable landscapes and enjoy many outdoor activities along the way. We recommend spreading your getaway over five to seven days. Take this extraordinary route to quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches, and stunning mountains in six Scottish regions.

Admire beautiful Glencoe

Glencoe’s lush valleys will surely amaze you, while also revealing more about Scotland’s tumultuous history. Famous for its scenic beauty, Glencoe is also known for the MacDonald clan massacre of 1692. While some believe the place is haunted, its mountains and invigoratingly fresh air manifest an undeniable Zen. The popular An Torr and Glencoe Lochan trails make it a must stop for hikers as well.

Taste the best Scotch

Scotch, the country’s national drink, is a type of malt or grain whisky made only in Scotland. From Campbeltown to Islay, you’ll find many distilleries in whatever region you visit. Each locale offers its own version of Scotch, and you may notice some differences, such as woody versus fruity notes or a unique aging process. Edinburgh offers several exclusive tastings, including the Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street.

Visit medieval castles

From Dunvegan to Kilchurn , Scotland has no shortage of mythical castles. Among the most fascinating and famous for its epic setting, Eilean Donan is surrounded by nature and three large lochs. Former home of the Mackenzie and Macrae clans, it also played an important role in the Jacobite rebellions. Stirling Castle , located between Glasgow and Edinburgh, has also witnessed several bloody battles, including the defeat of the English by the celebrated Robert the Bruce and William Wallace during the Middle Ages.

Meet Highlands cows

Affectionately known as “ hairy coos ,” these beautiful, shaggy cows are easy to spot when travelling the roads of their native region, the Highlands. Animal lovers with be happy to know that many farms will let you feed and pet them.

Climb the Cuillin Hills

Mountain climbing adepts may be interested in scaling the Cuillin Hills while in Scotland. Separated by the Sligachan Valley, these two mountain ranges are located on the Isle of Skye . While a long, rugged ridge makes ascending the Black Cuillin more difficult, the gentler, rounder Red Cuillin remains challenging. The Black Cuillin leads climbers across several Munros, mountains rising nearly one thousand metres (over 3,000 feet) high.

Sail on the mysterious Loch Ness

Loch Ness is famous for more than its legendary underwater monster. It’s also the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdom, stretching for over 37 kilometers (29 miles). While there, make your way to the lakeshore to visit the abandoned Urquhart Castle , one of the few to successfully repel British forces after the death of King Robert the Bruce in 1332.

Visit Inverness

Fans of the series Outlander are likely to put Inverness on their Scottish itineraries. Indeed, the city has inspired many travellers. The Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last hand-to-hand combat in the United Kingdom, is just a quick drive away. Sitting on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness also features tours of a castle and its botanical garden. It’s also an excellent entry point for exploring the Highlands or venturing onto Loch Ness.

Explore Cairngorms National Park

Covering more than 4,500 km 2 (1,700 mi 2 ), Cairngorms is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. You’ll find some of Scotland’s highest peaks, numerous sparkling lochs, and vast forests of native Caledonian pine. An ideal playground for water sports, cycling, and hiking, Cairngorms National Park is also home to Balmoral , the late Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite castle.

Discover the Isle of Skye

Skye is not only the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, it’s also an incredible destination for enjoying some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery. Among its most enchanting stops you’ll find breathtaking landscapes at Kilt Rock , feel like you’ve reached the end of the world at Neist Point Lighthouse, and enjoy tasty fish and chips in the colourful town of Portree.

Explore the Quiraing

Scotland has no shortage of impressive hiking spots, and the Quiraing is probably its most magnificent. Located on the Isle of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula, the site provides visitors with access to the Old Man of Storr , a mythical rock formation adding a bit drama to the surroundings.

Relax on the Isle of Harris

In the heart of the Outer Hebrides , the Isle of Harris is home to spectacular scenery bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Among its many white sandy beaches, Luskentyre and Seilebost offer splendid mountain views, turquoise waters, and green pastures. This island paradise is perfect for windsurfing.

Enter the world of fairies

The Isle of Skye is full of legends and places said to have magical properties. The Sligachan River , for instance, supposedly grants eternal beauty to those who rinse their faces in its bewitched waters. Near the village of Glenbrittle, Fairy Glen lies in a lush valley where wishes are granted amid the enchanting, crystal-clear waters of the Fairy Pools .

Visit Glasgow

Meaning “ dear green place ” in Gaelic, the aptly named Glasgow is home to 90 parks and natural areas along the Clyde River. In addition to its superb university and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , music lovers can visit the Scottish Opera and Royal Scottish National Orchestra. For those who prefer sports, Glasgow boasts two soccer teams and one rugby team.

Visit St Andrews

St Andrews is the perfect Scottish destination for golf enthusiasts. Founded in 1754, the town’s famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club hosts the British Open every other year. About an hour and 15 minutes by car from Edinburgh, St Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest university , the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, and beautiful beaches like West Sands .

Explore Aberdeen

Also known as the Silver City, Aberdeen is sure to please culture lovers. The summer months feature numerous plays at His Majesty’s Theatre and symphony concerts at the Music Hall. More intrepid visitors may dare to visit the Tolbooth Museum, Aberdeen’s most haunted locale. Those with a taste for castles will find nearby Dunnottar and Craigievar make easy day trips.

Visit Shetland

Located in the north of Scotland, Shetland borders the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea. Geographically closer to Norway than to Scotland, the island culture incorporates Scandinavian traditions. In January, for example, Viking structures are burned and locals dress up during the fire festival commemorating the sun’s return following the winter solstice. Winter also offers glimpses of the northern lights, while puffins and Shetland ponies take centre stage during the rest of the year.

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture

Enjoy several important cultural events when visiting Scotland between May and September. More than 60 Highlands Games are held across the country, giving locals and tourists alike a chance to show off their clan colours in a series of fun, sporting, and traditional events. In August, both the Fringe Festival and events surrounding the bagpipes and kilts of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo take Edinburgh by storm.

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Politics latest: Key voter on Humza Yousaf's future will make proposals to 'help him out of a tight corner'

Ash Regan, who is the Alba Party's sole MSP and potentially the deciding vote in a no-confidence motion in Mr Yousaf, is expected to meet with the first minister. Listen to this week's Politics at Jack and Sam's as you scroll.

Sunday 28 April 2024 11:15, UK

• Sunak refuses to rule out July general election
• Watch in full: Trevor Phillips interviews the prime minister
• Key voter on Yousaf's future will make proposals to 'help him out of a tight corner'
• Connor Gillies:  First minister must reset relations with very people he's burned bridges with
• Salmond asked Alastair Campbell to negotiate on behalf of Scotland if it gained independence
• Explained: How did we get here - and what happens next?
• Tap here to follow Politics at Jack and Sam's
• Sam Coates explains why the local elections matter
• Live reporting by Brad Young

By Trevor Phillips, presenter

I've known Rishi Sunak slightly for almost a decade, having first met him after he penned a thoughtful, comprehensive, well-received report on Britain's minority communities, which I'd say is still the best of its kind.

Sitting down to interview him in a state-of-the-art defence facility this week, I could still see the same energetic, likeable problem solver that I met back then, even if he's now surrounded by the prime ministerial cavalcade of aides, security and media.

That Peloton and fasting regime are clearly doing their job. He's keen to show his detailed grasp of the situation, whether that's welfare reform, defence or migration. It's easy to see why he shone in Silicon Valley and thrived in the Treasury.

However, in the political world he chose, there's a downside to being highly intelligent, disciplined, and super-focused on delivery, as they might say in California.

He betrays frustration with what he - not wholly unjustifiably - sees as a media obsession with polls and presentation.

Unfortunately, as Enoch Powell once pointed out, a politician who complains about journalists is like a sailor who doesn't much fancy being at sea.

He rightly points out that it's his job to make hard choices - for example, funding the defence budget even if it's at the expense of schools and hospitals.

But a political leader should also know that what follows is an even harder job: to cajole the electorate into supporting that choice - and the voters aren't always governed by the logic of the computer.

Read on here...

Lorna Slater, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, has said her party will not be changing its mind about supporting the upcoming motion of no confidence in First Minister Humza Yousaf.

Ms Slater said they would vote in favour of the motion on BBC Scotland's Sunday Show,

"I cannot imagine anything at this point that could change that position.

"This was a spectacular breach of trust."

She was asked if policy offers from Mr Yousaf ahead of the vote could persuade them to abstain.

“[The Bute House Agreement] was based on mutual trust and respect. I do have trust and respect for many of my SNP colleagues," she said.

"But Humza Yousaf himself has broken that and he needs to face the consequences."

Policing minister Chris Philp said he was posing a "rhetorical question" after he appeared to ask whether Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were different countries.

The MP for Croydon South said he was struggling to hear when he was asked about the government's new law on deporting some asylum seekers to Rwanda by a Question Time audience member.

He told the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg: "I was struggling a little bit to hear the question.

"When I put that point to him I was asking that as a clearly rhetorical question rather than a substantive question, as I think any fair-minded listener would conclude."

What did he say on Question Time?

The audience member, from Congo, pointed out there has been a long history of violent conflict with neighbouring country Rwanda.

He asked Mr Philp: "Had my family members come from Goma [a city on the country's border] on a crossing right now, would they then be sent back to the country they are supposedly warring – Rwanda? Does that make any sense to you?"

Mr Philp replied: "No, I think there's an exclusion on people from Rwanda being sent to Rwanda."

After the audience member objected that his parents were not from Rwanda, the Conservative MP appeared to ask: "Well, I mean, Rwanda is a different country to Congo, isn't it?

"It's a different country?" he said, followed by laughter from some audience members.

Rishi Sunak was quizzed over the local and general elections, the Rwanda Scheme and defence spending today on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips.

If you missed it, here's your chance to catch up on all the key moments - or watch the interview in full.

• The prime minister tried to manage expectations for Thursday, saying: "Local elections are always difficult for incumbent parties";
• Asylum seekers travelling across the land border to Ireland was a sign the Rwanda scheme was working as a deterrent, he said;
• Despite being asked several times, Mr Sunak refused to rule out a July general election;
• He declined to comment on polling and, when asked if he would have any regrets should the Conservative Party lose, Mr Sunak said: "You're again focused on all this personality stuff."

A little earlier this morning, Rishi Sunak told Sky News that the movement of migrants from Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland showed his Rwanda scheme was working as a deterrent.

But the Irish government is to consider legislative proposals next week on returning asylum seekers back to the UK who have travelled across the land border.

Justice minister Helen McEntee will also meet Home Secretary James Cleverly next week, after saying the number of migrants crossing the border was now "higher than 80%".

"I'll have emergency legislation at cabinet this week to make sure that we can effectively return people to the UK," she told RTE.

Ms McEntee added Brexit was responsible for the UK seeing an increase in people seeking asylum.

A spokesman for Irish premier Simon Harris said he is "very clear about the importance of protecting the integrity" of Ireland's migration system.

"Ireland has a rules-based system that must always be applied firmly and fairly.

"In that context, the Taoiseach has asked the minister for justice to bring proposals to Cabinet next week to amend existing law regarding the designation of safe 'third countries' and allowing the return of inadmissible international protection applicants to the UK."

Alex Salmond asked Alastair Campbell to negotiate on behalf of Scotland with the UK government in the event it voted for independence in 2014, Mr Campbell tells Sky News.

The proposal was made when the pair were in Scotland ahead of the referendum, making tributes to Tony Benn, the former Number 10 communications director says.

"If Scotland had become independent, then that would have been a massive, massive thing for the country, so I would have been very happy to do that.

"I would want people who weren't necessarily pro-indpendence to be part of that team."

As Humza Yousaf fights to maintain leadership of Scotland, the Alba Party's Alex Salmond joins Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips.

Meanwhile, Ash Regan, the Alba Party's sole MP and potentially the deciding vote in a no-confidence motion in Mr Yousaf, is expected to meet with the first minister.

Ms Regan will "make a set of reasonable proposals to help him out of a very tight corner", says Mr Salmond.

"Scotland is lucky that somebody like Ash Regan is in that position."

Independence forces should be "cooperating together to try and get independence back as a priority in Scottish society".

Asked if an agreement can be reached with the SNP, Mr Salmond says Mr Yousaf is "in a very difficult position" but he will be in a "listening mode".

"He wouldn't have sacked the Greens from his administration unless he wanted a significant change in direction," says Mr Salmond.

"One possible outcome of this political crisis is there might be a Scottish election."

Earlier this week, Labour pledged to nationalise the railway system.

Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting says the plan is a "reflection of the failure of privatised rail and the absence of competition".

If you bring the franchises back into public ownership as they come up, the profits can be reinvested into better services and fairs, argues Mr Streeting.

"There is already enormous public ownership of our railways, but they are owned by French, German, Dutch and Italian taxpayers, and our profits go into their countries."

"It's time that we had public ownership of our railways so we can reinvest."

Trevor Phillips continues to put questions to shadow health secretary Wes Streeting.

He is about Keir Starmer's pledge to maintain the triple lock, with Phillips raising statistics showing median wealth for those in their early 60s was nearly nine times higher than those in their early 30s.

"I don't buy into that intergenerational conflict argument. We need to give pensioners the reassurance to know that as they have planned for retirement... that Labour will protect the triple lock."

Wes Streeting is asked about the possibility of a July election, which the prime minister has refused to rule out.

The shadow health secretary says: "He should get on with it. We are not just ready, we are, as with the rest of the country, fed up of waiting."

People are "crying out for an opportunity to deliver their verdict on this government and vote for change", he says.

"That's why the prime minister bottled an election earlier this year, that's why he's bottled it now, and that's why he will have to be taken out of Downing Street by his fingernails."

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