top 20 places to visit in scotland

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25 Best Things to Do in Scotland

Consider Scotland, if just for a moment, and it’s more than likely you’ll conjure up images of the Loch Ness Monster, tartan kilted Highlanders, blaring bagpipes, magnificent scenery, shaggy Highland cattle, ghostly castles, and of course, the birthplace of golf.

All together, these things are part and parcel of the fabric that makes Scotland so unique. The country lends itself to travel and explore in many different ways.

You can walk around the castles and the fabled battlefields where the ferocious clans fought against the English. You can follow in the footsteps of illustrious kings and queens. Or you can track the literary trails which were trodden by the likes of Sir Walter Scot and Robbie Burns.

A further great attraction of Scotland is its solitude, together with its remote stretches of purple, heather-laden moors, secluded expanses of beaches, and wildly romantic mountains with their lochs and deeply-set glens, all waiting to be explored. Here are the best things to do in Scotland !

1. Castle Rock, Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle

The most famous fortress in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle has played a dominant role in the city’s skyline since the reign of King David I during the 12th Century. For good reason, it is the most popular national monument in the country.

Perched atop the plug of an extinct volcano, the spectacular castle offers terrific views over city landmarks, including Princes Street, the Royal Mile, and Holyroodhouse Palace, which lies at the far end of the Royal Mile.

Also see: Best things to do in Edinburgh .

To gain entrance to the castle, a drawbridge spans over an old moat which has its entryway from the broad Esplanade, the location for the much-famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which is held as an annual event in August. As you walk along the Esplanade, you’ll witness bronze statues of two Scottish heroes – Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, both of whom fought and defeated the English during the late 13th and early 14th centuries.

2. Inverness: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

If you think of Loch Ness, near the small city of Inverness, you’ll likely picture the mythical monster, which, according to legend, has made a home of the loch for countless centuries. For a thoroughly detailed portrayal of the monster, there’s no place that does a better task of fueling the legend than that of Drumnadrochit Hotel’s Loch Ness Exhibition.

To add further allure to the loch, the much-photographed Urquhart Castle stands over the water as it sits on a strip of land which juts out into the loch. Irrespective the castle is now a ruin, it, together with the loch, remains among the most popular of tourist attractions within the country.

3. St. Andrews: The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews

The Scots are responsible for many inventions, including the postage stamp, tarmacadam, the steam engine, the bicycle, and not least, the telephone. Arguably one of their most abiding inventions is the game of golf. Among the country’s biggest visitor draws is that of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. Recognized as golf’s ruling body and founded in 1750, St. Andrews frequently plays host to the famed British Open. Worth a look is the British Golf Museum which relays the history of the “home of golf”, beginning in the Middle Ages and progressing to the present day.

4. Trossachs National Park: Loch Lomond

Situated about 14 miles (23 km) north of Glasgow, and part of the Trossachs National Park, lies Britain’s largest lake – Loch Lomond. With its plentiful supplies of salmon, trout, and whitefish, it serves as an extremely popular locale for anglers the world over. And surrounded by spectacular mountain slopes and streams, it’s also celebrated by hikers, day-trippers, and water sports enthusiasts.

For those with boundless amounts of energy, a stiff hike up Ben Lomond, the tallest peak in the area, which stands at 3,192 ft. (973 m), is well and truly worth it merely to take in the spectacular surrounding views. At the southern end of the loch, Cameron House makes for an excellent place to experience the wonders of a Scottish castle, take in the fresh loch air, and savor the expansive range of outdoor activities.

5. Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye, known as “Cloud Island” on account of the heavy mists that often blanket the isle, and also by the Viking name “Sküyo”, is the largest of the country’s inner isles. It’s an extremely popular destination among nature lovers, and the wild, amorous mountain scenery together with the lush green glens and caves, beautiful waterfalls, and sandy beaches, which are all packed into an island that is merely 50 miles (80.5 km) in length and 15 miles (24 km) in width (at the center), serve to add to the overall appeal.

Add to this the quaint little villages and the deep inlets, the island still offers some remnants of primeval oak forests, in addition to a variety of wildlife species, including seals, otters, and over 200 species of birds. Visiting the island can be achieved either by passenger ferry or by taking a short drive across the bridge that connects to the mainland.

6. The Northern Highlands

Stretching from the city of Inverness up to Thurso at the northern peak of the Scottish mainland are the magnificent Northern Highlands. The ancient fault line gave rise to the creation of the Caledonian Canal, which extends from Inverness on the east coast over to the Corpach near Fort William on the west coast.

Though much of the mountainous region is entirely uninhabited, making it an ideal location for biking and hiking adventures, the area is dotted with many beautiful small towns and villages. Perhaps the most charming is the little coastal town of Dornoch, which is noted for its castle and cathedral ruins.

7. Ayrshire: The Burns Heritage Trail

A super way to experience a little insight into the life and times of Robbie Burns’ – Scotland’s favorite poet – is to take the Burns Heritage Trail. Starting in Alloway on the outskirts of Ayr, at the Robert Burns Museum, you’ll witness a wonderfully preserved thatched cottage where the poet was born and where he remained for most of his childhood years.

Upon visiting other related landmarks, the tour heads to the town of Dumfries in the south and to Robert Burns House, where he remained for the final four years of his life until he died at a young age of 36, in 1796. His final resting place is a short walk away at St. Michael’s Churchyard.

8. Aberdeenshire: The Castle Trail

The Castle Trail mainly focuses on castles located in Aberdeenshire, where 17 of Scotland’s most dramatic and best preserved castles remain. The itinerary, which utilizes the city of Aberdeen as a base, is anything from a single day up to four days in duration. You’ll be treated to such marvels as the 13th century Drum Castle, the fairy-tale looking 16th century Crathes Castle, as well as the 15th century Craigievar Castle, together with its round oriental windows, delightful towers and gables, and its quaint conical roof tops.

The tour is also a magnificent way to enjoy the dramatic coastlines and majestic mountains within the Grampian Region.

9. Stirling: The Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle

Perfectly situated between Glasgow in the west and Edinburgh to the east, Stirling is famed for a number of bloody historic battles, including the Battle of Bannockburn which witnessed Robert the Bruce’s defeat of the English in 1314, and the Battle of Stirling Bridge, whereby the legendary William Wallace helped to secure Scottish independence from the English King Edward I.

Just outside Stirling at Abbey Craig stands the courtly Wallace Monument, a splendid 246-step tower, which offers sumptuous views over the entire area, in addition to being the home to a number of artifacts which are claimed to have belonged to Wallace. Then, there’s the 12th century Stirling Castle, which is reminiscent of Edinburgh Castle, sitting atop a volcanic crag close to the center of the city.

10. Isle of Mull: Reside in Glengorm Castle

Occupying a wonderful position and surrounded by the cobalt blue ocean and ruined stone circles, together with white sandy beaches with a dramatic backdrop of the dark rocks on Mull’s northern coastline, stands Glengorm Castle.

The castle was built in 1860 and offers the perfect location for patrons to the island whereby they can book a room and enjoy their stay under the auspices of the castle’s owner Mr. Tom Nelson. The castle sits within the heart of its 5,000 acre estate, making it the ideal location to marvel at the surrounding views during an energetic hike, or sit back and relax while enjoying a dram of the local whisky.

11. Orkney: Skara Brae

Skara Brae, a semi-subterranean village which is situated on the island of Orkney, is among the very best preserved villages from the Stone Age within Europe, and is estimated to have been built over 5,000 years ago. For centuries, it was completely covered by a sand dune, until, in 1850, a great storm revealed the site.

Almost immediately upon the site being abandoned, the dwellings were suffused by sand, thereby preserving the stone walls and ensuring their currently relatively unmarred appearance. Older than the Great Pyramids and Stonehenge, Skara Brae has been given the title of the “Scottish Pompeii” due to the outstanding preservation.

12. Loch Duich, Western Highlands of Scotland: Eilean Donan Castle

Connected to the mainland by way of a simple footbridge which was created during the castle’s restoration during the early part of the 20th century, Eilean Donan, which is situated in the western Highlands of Scotland, is a small tidal island perched where three lochs meet – Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long. The castle, which takes the same name as the island, was originally established in the early 13th century, and served as a defensive port against marauding Vikings.

Today, the castle is a popular venue for both film and weddings, and is one of the most photographed structures in Scotland. It has appeared in films such as James Bond (The World is Not Enough), Bonnie Prince Charlie, The New Avengers, and Highlander.

13. Princes Street Gardens/ Edinburgh Castle: Festival Finale Fireworks

Edinburgh’s Festival fireworks display takes place at the culmination of the Festival, on the 31st of August each year. It represents the world’s largest annual pyrotechnic display which is accompanied by live music, and is watched by around 250,000 revelers, which represents almost half the entire population of Edinburgh.

Among the best vantage points are Princes Street Gardens, Carlton Hill, Arthur’s Seat, and Inverleith Park, unless you have a room with a view up to Edinburgh Castle, in which case you’re in luck. The sight of 100,000 fireworks being set off by four metric tons of explosives is one not to be missed.

14. Loch Garten near Aviemore: Watch Ospreys in Close Proximity

At Loch Garten, about 10 miles (16 km) north west of Aviemore, you’ll have the opportunity to watch nesting ospreys in their natural habitat. Other than the fact that these are very beautiful birds, it’s estimated that there are less than 150 breeding pairs within the UK. Watching from a hide offers the very best opportunity of witnessing these white-bellied fish-eaters.

Besides the ospreys, the forest at Loch Garten is inundated with red squirrels, crested tits, and red deer, so it really is a nature lover’s paradise. Do note that the hide is open from April to August.

15. North West Highlands: Bag Seven Munros in a Single Day

Arguably, there are some 284 ‘Munros’ peaks that rise above 3,000 ft. or 915 m in Scotland. No less than seven of those are located on a single long ridge in Kintail, North West Highlands, above Glen Shiel. As such, for those with a passion for bagging Munros, this is indeed the Munro-baggers cricket score! The first Munro, Creag a’ Mhaim, which is the easternmost of the Munros located on Cluanie Ridge, is 3,107 ft. (947 m), makes for a stiff climb, even for an experienced hiker. Once the first has been victoriously ascended, the final six await!

All seven Munros can easily be completed in a day, albeit a long day, and the Cluanie Inn makes for a good starting point, as well as the ideal finishing point to rest those weary legs and enjoy some fine Scot’s ale.

16. Isle of Arran

Only 166 square miles (267 sq. km) in size, and being a mirror image of the mainland’s rugged landscapes, it’s for obvious reason why the little Isle of Arran is recognized as “Scotland in Miniature”. Just like the mainland, Arran boasts sandy beaches, majestic mountains, castles, moorland, a diverse array of wildlife, beautiful little fishing harbors, and extremely friendly people.

Even though the isle’s highlights, among them being Goat Fell Mountain and Brodick Castle, can be visited within a single day, it’s best to allow for a few days in order to explore this wonderful wee Scottish island.

17. Gairloch, Wester Ross: Live in a Lighthouse

If you’ve ever fancied staying in a lighthouse, now’s your chance. Rua Reidh lighthouse, not far from Gairloch in Wester Ross, is located at the very end of a single-track road which stretches 11.8 miles (19 km) and is merely used as an ambling pathway for sheep and deer. The lighthouse is perched atop the black rocks overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean and over to the Outer Hebrides.

Like all lighthouses in the UK, Rua Reidh is now fully automated and thus the keepers’ quarters have been transformed into en-suite bedrooms, bunkrooms, and a cosy living room together with a wood-burning stove. For more information, contact the lighthouse owner at www. ruareidh.co.uk

18. Outer Hebrides: Sea Kayaking Around an Archipelago

Paddling to an island that is entirely deserted and then having a BBQ on the beach might seem like something you can only achieve in a dream, but it’s perfectly possible to achieve in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland where almost all of the 200 plus islands are uninhabited. And the best way to experience the archipelago is to do so by boat. The surrounding waters are crystal-clear and the destination is prime territory for sea kayaking.

Fortunately, for those with little to no experience of kayaking, there are local professionals who will take you out. And if you are seriously committed, you can turn the adventure into a week-long camping expedition. To get started and pick up your kayak, visit the isles of Harris, Lewis, Barra, or Uist.

19. Pollok Country Park, Glasgow: The Burrell Collection

The Burrell Collection in Glasgow’s Pollok Country Park hosts everything from Rodin sculptures, ancient tapestries, Chinese ceramics, to Impressionist works by Cézanne and Degas. The collection, which was donated by Glaswegian shipping magnate and art collector Sir William Burrell, is open daily and entry is free of charge. Art lovers who have already witnessed the treasures on offer claim that the museum’s milieu and variety of art is almost beyond comparison.

20. Islay and Jura: Whisky at its Finest

The islands of Islay and Jura, both situated on the west coast of Scotland, play host to some of Scotland’s very best whisky distilleries, including Ardbeg, Jura, Bowmore, Kilchoman, Laphroig, and Lagavulin.

Although the distilleries can be visited at any time of year, for the whisky aficionado, the best time to go is during the weeklong whisky festival which occurs every summer. Besides the gargantuan quantity of whisky to be had, the festival includes ceilidhs (traditional Scottish dance), cooking-with-whisky evenings, Celtic music concerts, in addition to a charity whisky barrel ‘push’ across Islay. And on the final day, festival revelers are treated to a carnival held on Port Ellen Green.

21. Melrose: Melrose Abbey

Founded back in 1136 by Cistercian monks, Melrose Abbey was built on the behest of King David I of Scotland. Although it is now a ruin, you can still witness the lavish masonic décor which is considered to maintain the embalmed heart of David I’s great-great grandson, Robert the Bruce. The abbey represents one of Scotland’s most historically significant structural remnants.

22. Grampian Mountains: Climb Britain’s Highest Peak

If you have at least some hill-walking experience, don’t be tempted to take the Tourist Path in order to reach the summit of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, which stands at 4,409 ft. (1,344 m) above sea level. Instead, follow the far more adventurous and spectacular Carn Mór Dearg Arête, which is one of the finest ridges in the country, as it sweeps in an almost perfect arc over to the North Face. Once you reach the top, you’re welcome to join the masses of tourists as they make their descent along the main route, and at the bottom, take pleasure from a pint of real ale served at the Ben Nevis Inn.

23. South Harris, Outer Hebrides: Luskentyre Beach

Located on the breathtaking west coast of South Harris overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the Outer Hebrides, Luskentryre Beach offers a peaceful and timeless getaway for the intrepid visitor to the islands of Scotland. The beach is among the most beautiful coastal areas in Scotland, together with its creamy, white sands, blue-green seas, and vibrant green hillside which makes for the perfect backdrop.

24. Laggan, Kingussie: Go Mountain Biking

Scotland has the reputation as one of the world’s best destinations for those who like to partake in the sport of downhill mountain biking. And that’s a reputation that is well deserved as a plethora of dedicated downhill tracks now dot every part of the country. One that stands above the crowd is Laggan Wolftrax, located 1.25 miles (2 km) from Laggan, which is near Kingussie in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

If you’re a teenage thrill seeker, there are a number of black runs (the most severe) available for you. For those who prefer a gentler jaunt around the woods, there are easier-going blue runs (moderate) as well as flat trails, and tea and cake await you in the caféteria at the end.

25. Aviemore, Cairngorms: Rothiemurchus Forest

The largest tract of ancient forest that remains in Britain is located about 2 miles (3.2 km) from Aviemore in the Cairngorms. The Caledonian pine forest provides a good way to escape from it all and enter a world that’s akin to a Lewis Carroll novel, as the pine trees twist and turn and spread their woody fingers over the surrounding juniper and heather.

For the best chance to witness capercaille, badgers, and pine martens, pay a visit to the hide which is heated and provides night-vision cameras.

25 Best Things to Do in Scotland:

• Castle Rock, Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle
• Inverness: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
• St. Andrews: The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews
• Trossachs National Park: Loch Lomond
• Isle of Skye
• The Northern Highlands
• Ayrshire: The Burns Heritage Trail
• Aberdeenshire: The Castle Trail
• Stirling: The Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle
• Isle of Mull: Reside in Glengorm Castle
• Orkney: Skara Brae
• Loch Duich, Western Highlands of Scotland: Eilean Donan Castle
• Princes Street Gardens/ Edinburgh Castle: Festival Finale Fireworks
• Loch Garten near Aviemore: Watch Ospreys in Close Proximity
• North West Highlands: Bag Seven Munros in a Single Day
• Isle of Arran
• Gairloch, Wester Ross: Live in a Lighthouse
• Outer Hebrides: Sea Kayaking Around an Archipelago
• Pollok Country Park, Glasgow: The Burrell Collection
• Islay and Jura: Whisky at its Finest
• Melrose: Melrose Abbey
• Grampian Mountains: Climb Britain’s Highest Peak
• South Harris, Outer Hebrides: Luskentyre Beach
• Laggan, Kingussie: Go Mountain Biking
• Aviemore, Cairngorms: Rothiemurchus Forest

21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland + Map

We might be biased, but only a few places in the world can claim such a wide range of natural beauty as Scotland – from the dramatic craggy coastlines to mist-shrouded majestic mountain peaks, stunning lochs to lush forests, white sandy beaches to rolling countryside. The list goes on. 

And, honestly, what are we missing? Scotland has plenty of lively towns and cities where the fun never ends, small villages so charming that they seem straight out of storybooks and castles with hundreds of years of fascinating tales. Attractions in Scotland are as diverse as they are alluring.

Over the years, we have travelled around this country a lot and fell head over heels with its staggering beauty. It is not an easy task to list the best destinations in Scotland.

So, whether you are drawn to the mystical beauty of the Isle of Skye , the riveting medieval history of Edinburgh , or the wildlife of St Abbs , this guide made by two locals is sure to inspire your next adventure in this incredibly beautiful country, we call it home.

Along with the famous touristy attractions, we have included a few hidden gems to add to your Scotland itinerary, as this country richly rewards those who dare to deviate from the well-trodden path.

Best Places to Visit in Scotland

1. isle of skye.

It’s easy to see why the Isle of Skye, located in the Inner Hebrides, is considered one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. 

The majestic mountain ranges, dramatic cliffs, dinky villages and fascinating Scottish history are bound to cast a spell on travellers. From hiking to distillery tours – there is an array of marvellous things to do on the Isle of Skye .

One of the most magical places here is Fairy Pool, which showcases a series of gorgeous waterfalls with turquoise clear water against the backdrop of the imposing Black Cuillin mountain ranges.

Visitors who love outdoor pursuits can hike to the iconic Old Man of Storr on the Trotternish Ridge. It is one of the most popular hiking trails in Scotland. The view from the top is breathtaking and is worth the effort.

Another rewarding hike on the Isle of Skye is at Quiraing, which is famous for its dramatic landscape, unique landforms and rugged charm.

One of our favourite places on Skye is Elgol , a tiny village on Loch Scavaig. You can catch a boat from there to the incredibly beautiful Loch Coruisk .

Additionally, Portree is the main town of Skye and a great base to explore the island.

2. Edinburgh

Wandering along the winding cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town is like stepping back into medieval times. The Scottish capital city is easily one of the best destinations in Scotland.

The list of things to see and do in Edinburgh is extensive. The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are together a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The magnificent Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline. Perched over an ancient volcanic rock, this castle was once the home of kings and queens of Scotland. Inside the sprawling complex, there are various historic buildings and museums.

Make sure to add Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat , two of the city’s best viewpoints to your itinerary. We would recommend visiting them at sunset.

For an extra dose of charm, ramble along Victoria Street . This colourful street is believed to be the inspiration behind the fictional Diagon Alley and is one of the best Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh .

Curious travellers would love to venture out of the city centre to explore Dean Village . With a single-arched stone bridge, colourful houses, conical turrets and crow-stepped gables, this place is simply magical.

From Dean Village, follow the water of Leith to visit the Stockbridge neighbourhood – brimming with cosy cafes, shops and traditional pubs.

While here, don’t forget to roam around the extremely picturesque Circus Lane .

Visitors can also enjoy some of Edinburgh’s famous historical sites, such as the Scott Monument, Holyrood Palace and Royal Mile.

3. Loch Lomond

From exploring the picturesque villages along the shore to discovering the wee islands – there are many places to visit in Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond is surely one of the best tourist attractions in Scotland. It is the largest freshwater lake by area in Britain.

The Highland Boundary Fault Line runs through this loch. Therefore, you can see very diverse landscapes around this area.

Nestled on the western bank of Loch Lomond, the quaint village of Luss is an absolute delight to explore. The main road is lined with traditional houses adorning beautiful seasonal floral displays. 

Luss is rightfully one of the prettiest villages in Scotland . Also, the mighty Ben Lomond looks magnificent from the village pier.

Outdoor enthusiasts might enjoy some of the popular hiking trails in this area, including Ben Lomond, Conic Hill and West Highland Way.

Take a scenic boat tour to see the rich wildlife of this area.

Loch Lomond is well connected by public transport and is a popular day trip destination from Glasgow .

Plan a trip to Scotland’s largest city if you enjoy visiting destinations with stunning architecture, vibrant street arts, numerous avant-garde museums, lively nightlife and loads of chic restaurants. 

Named European Capitals of Culture for 1990, this is a place that celebrates creativity. There are a plethora of tourist attractions in Glasgow to make you fall in love with this city.

Located in the buzzing West End, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the best museums in Glasgow . Also, it is one of the most popular free attractions in Scotland.

It houses an extensive collection of priceless paintings by renowned European and Scottish artists.

Culture vultures should add Riverside Museum, Burrell Collection and Hunterian Museum & Art Gallery to their Glasgow itinerary .

Those looking to take in some history can visit the Glasgow Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in mainland Scotland. For an elevated view over the cityscape, climb the nearby Necropolis, a Victorian garden cemetery and a hidden gem of Glasgow .

Lastly, while you are gallivanting around the city, peel your eyes out for some colourful street art. If you have time, follow the dedicated Glasgow Mural Trail to admire them.

This city has one of the best nightlife in Scotland. So, once the sun sets, dive into Glasgow’s dynamic nightlife scene, which includes everything from traditional pubs to live music concerts.

5. Fort William and Glenfinnan Viaduct

Nestled at the bank of Loch Linnhe in the West Highlands of Scotland, Fort William is known as the outdoor capital of the UK. It sits in the shadow of the Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain.

From adventure thrill seekers to budding photographers – here are loads of tourist attractions in Fort William for everyone.

The Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, departs from Fort William to Mallaig. You might recognise it from the Harry Potter movies.

This journey is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. One of the highlights is when the train passes through the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, an architectural landmark in Scotland.

There are many incredible hiking trails around this area suitable for all different fitness levels. Avid hikers will be tempted to conquer the mighty Ben Nevis.

Add Nevis Range Mountain Resort to your travel itinerary if you want to enjoy a stunning panoramic view over Fort William and the surrounding landscapes without hiking.

Whiskey connoisseurs can take a guided tour of the Ben Nevis Distillery. Plus, while you are in this area, stroll around the Old Inverlochy Castle.

6. Inverness and Loch Ness

Sprawling around River Ness, the city of Inverness is known as the capital of the Highlands. Despite being the largest settlement in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness possesses a market town feel.

From checking out Leakey’s Bookshop, the largest second-hand bookstore in Scotland, to enjoying a relaxing nature walk around the Ness Islands – the tourist attractions in Inverness will keep visitors busy.

Travellers can visit Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairn and Cawdor Castle as a day trip from Inverness.

No visit to Inverness would be complete without visiting Loch Ness, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland.

Take a boat cruise to admire the wild natural beauty of this area. Also, don’t forget to look out for the infamous Loch Ness monster, Nessie.

Travellers interested in history will find Urquhart Castle very intriguing. It harbours thousands of years of Highland history and is one of the most visited castles in Scotland .

Plan to spend some time in the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, located at the end of Loch Ness. 

Scotland is home to many incredible sights, but none so famous and majestic as the Valley of Glen Coe.

This valley is an ideal place for incredible hiking, epic mountain views, scenic drives and endless outdoor activities.

It’s easy to see why Glen Coe is considered one of the most popular tourist spots in Scotland.

The wildly rugged and strikingly beautiful landscapes of Glen Coe were formed millions of years ago due to volcanic eruptions and glacier movement. This dramatic valley gets its name from River Coe, which flows across this area.

Glen Coe has appeared in many movies and television series, including the famous Harry Potter and James Bond movies.

The drive on A82 to Fort William via Glen Coe passes through some of the finest sceneries of Scotland and should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Pro hikers would enjoy hiking the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor. Also, plan to spend some time at Glencoe Village, located at the foot of the valley. One of the most gruesome chapters of Scottish history, the Massacre of Glencoe, took place here in 1692.

While here, visitors can visit the Glencoe Folk Museum, walk around the tranquil Glencoe Lochan or hike to the Pap of Glencoe.

8. Stirling

Teeming with history and surrounded by gorgeous scenery, Stirling is one of the most historic cities in Scotland .

A popular day trip destination from Edinburgh , Stirling stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions.

Perched over a volcanic crag, the magnificent Stirling Castle is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Stirling . It is one of the largest and most famous castles in Scotland .

Take a tour of the Great Hall, the Royal Palace and the lovely Queen Anne Garden to learn about its intriguing past. This castle played a prominent role in the history of Scotland. 

Another unmissable attraction in Stirling is the iconic National Wallace Monument. It commemorates the life of Sir William Wallace, one of the greatest national heroes of Scotland.

For the best views, climb some steep steps to reach the top of Wallace Monument, where you will find an observation deck boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Visitors can also enjoy other famous historical sites of Stirling, such as Cambuskenneth Abbey, Old Town Cemetery, Old Bridge, The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre and The Church of the Holy Rude.

We would highly recommend walking the Back Walk, a winding walkway around the old town walls of Stirling.

9. The Cairngorms National Park and Braemar

Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the Cairngorms National Park is one of the most alluring wildernesses of Scotland.

Cairngorms is famous for its wild wind-swept landscapes, scenic lochs, sky-hugging mountains, cosy towns, diverse wildlife and thrilling outdoor activities. It is indeed one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland and is the largest one in the UK. 

Experienced hikers can go Munro bagging, while there are numerous hiking trails suitable for novice walkers. Cairngorms is an adventure enthusiast’s paradise.

If you are not too keen on hiking, hop onboard the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, which will bring you over 1,097m above sea level in no time. The uninterrupted view over the national park will surely take your breath away.

Surrounded by the Grampian Mountains in the Cairngorms, Braemar is one of the most charming villages in Scotland . From history lovers to golfers, hikers to anglers – it has something for all.

Built by the Earl of Mar, Braemar Castle houses 400 years of riveting highland history. Every year, this village hosts the famous Braemar Gathering, which is frequently attended by the British Royal family. Balmoral Castle, one of the royal residences in Britain, lies very close to Braemar.

10. Plockton

Tucked away on the sheltered banks of beautiful Loch Carron in Wester Ross, Plockton is famous for its breathtaking scenery and mild climate. 

From local hikes with scenic views to wildlife boat tours, there are loads of amazing things to do in Plockton for all travellers.

This pretty fishing village is one of the most scenic places in Scotland and is known as The Jewel of the Highlands. Life moves at a more leisurely pace in Plockton.

It is located only a few miles from the famous Isle of Skye .

Plockton was originally built as a planned village in the early 19th century, and thanks to the booming fishing industry, it gained prosperity.

Visitors can admire the neatly lined traditional whitewashed houses and the charming gardens adorning the promenade. It is a perfect place for travellers to get lost in the scenic streets.

To admire a stunning panoramic view over this village and the surrounding mountains of the Scottish Highlands, take a short stroll to the Carn an Frith-aird viewpoint. Also, the nearby coral beach is a great spot to relax and unwind.

11. Eilean Donan Castle

No visit to Scotland is ever complete without seeing one of its many historic castles. Perched on a small island at the confluence of three sea lochs, Eilean Donan is one of the must-visit castles in Scotland . 

Surrounded by a tranquil loch and magnificent mountains, its jaw-dropping setting has drawn visitors from all over the world. A small stone bridge, which was added in the 20th century, connects the castle to the mainland.

Eilean Donan was originally built in the 13th century. During the Jacobite Rising, the British troops destroyed this castle. The structure that we see today, was reconstructed in the 20th century.

This iconic landmark has frequently appeared in various movies and TV shows, including the Bond film ‘The World is Not Enough’. No wonder, it is one of the most photographed places in Scotland.

History buffs can take a tour to discover the riveting past of this castle. For some of the best views of Eilean Donan, walk down to the nearby road bridge.

12. St Andrews

This seaside town on the east coast of Scotland is famous for being the birthplace of golf, which was first played here in the early 15th century. The Old Course in St Andrews is one of the oldest golf courses in the world and a heaven for golf enthusiasts.

Apart from golf, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do in St Andrews . 

Beach bums and culture hounds will enjoy the town’s sandy beaches, historic ruins, captivating museums and boutique shops.

One of the town’s most famous landmarks is St Andrews Cathedral. It was built in 1158 and was once the largest cathedral in Scotland. Visitors can explore the medieval ruins and learn about its colourful history.

History buffs would love to explore the ruins of St Andrews Castle. It sits atop a cliff and provides a breathtaking view of the North Sea.

After soaking up all the history, taking a leisurely beach walk might be just what you need.

The vast West Sands beach is the largest one in St Andrews. It is perfect for a long walk, swimming and many water sports.

13. Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris

The island of Harris and Lewis in the Outer Hebrides offers miles of unspoilt Caribbean-style white sand beaches, rich history and culture. It has long been one of the most loved places in Scotland.

One of our favourite places on the island is the Luskentyre Beach on South Harris. It is heaven on earth! With its vast stretch of crystal clear turquoise water and stunning vistas, Luskentyre is one of the most spectacular beaches in Scotland.

Beach lovers can also explore some of the other beaches on the island, including Seilebost, Horgabost and Scarasta.

While you are exploring the coast of this beautiful island, don’t forget to make a brief stop at the rugged Butt of Lewis, the most northerly point in the Western Isles.

Another must-visit attraction on this island is the Standing Callanish Stones, erected about 5000 years ago. While the exact purpose of this Neolithic monument remains unknown, historians believe these mystical stones might have been used as an astronomical observatory or performing ritual activity.

History buffs should also add the Dun Carloway, an Iron Age broch and Lews castle in Stornaway to their Scotland itinerary.

Photographers and culture lovers would love exploring the atmospheric Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Some of the recreated traditional thatched cottages are available as holiday accommodation, while others are open to visitors.

14. The Kelpies

You won’t want to skip this iconic architectural marvel about 26 miles northwest of Edinburgh on your next trip to Scotland. 

A great day trip option from Edinburgh , The Kelpies proudly stand at Helix Park in Falkirk. 

Named after a mythological creature from Scottish folklore, these two gigantic horse-heads are the largest equine sculptures in the world. They stand around 100ft tall and weigh more than 300 tonnes each. It is truly a sight to behold!

These magical structures were built by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, who modelled them after real-life Clydesdale horses Duke and Baron.

These enormous stainless-steel sculptures pay homage to horses, who played a pivotal role in the industrial and agricultural development in this part of Scotland. You can even take a tour to access the inside of these imposing sculptures.

The nearby Helix Park is perfect for walking and cycling. Also, there is an adventure zone for kids to enjoy.

We would also recommend exploring the nearby Falkirk Wheel, the only rotating boat lift in the world and the Callendar House, a French chateau-styled historic house.

15. North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a scenic route of over 500 miles, encompassing the north coast of Scotland. This scenic route starts and ends at the city of Inverness. 

NC500 offers breathtaking coastal sceneries, rugged mountains, deserted sandy beaches, charming small villages, friendly locals and atmospheric castles. It is one of the most popular road trip experiences in Scotland.

It usually takes 5-6 days to complete the loop. From foodies to adventure lovers, this coastal touring route has something for everyone.

From Inverness, you will be driving through the famous Bealach na Ba, a steep winding mountain road, to get to the Applecross Peninsula and then venture towards the small villages of Torridon and Ullapool. After that, continue driving to John o’Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain, before heading back to Inverness through Dingwall. 

As NC500 is a loop, you have the option of driving it either clockwise or anticlockwise.

There are many places of interest along the route to immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Scotland. Plan to visit Smoo Cave, Dunrobin Castle, Duncansby Stacks, Ardvreck Castle and many other incredible places.

For nature lovers, there are plenty of hiking opportunities in Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, Torridon and Sandwood Bay.

Leaving its glorious industrial past behind, Dundee is gradually emerging as a cultural leader of Scotland. 

If you are looking for a city break, Dundee won’t disappoint you. From exploring museums and art galleries to dining in trendy restaurants – this city has something for everyone.

It is the fourth largest  city in Scotland  and the first city in the UK to be honoured as a UNESCO City of Design.

One of the main tourist attractions in Dundee is the V&A Museum, the first design museum in Scotland. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the exterior of this building was inspired by the rugged cliffs of the east coast of Scotland. 

Inside their permanent collection, you will find various historical objects reflecting on fashion, architecture, textiles, comic books and theatre.

Right next to the V&A museum stands RRS Discovery, a historic Dundee-built ship used for Antarctic expeditions. Adjacent to it is a museum showcasing the gripping tales of Captain Scott and his brave crew members.

Other unmissable attractions include the McManus Art Gallery and Museum, Dundee Law and HMS Unicorn.

If you have time, make a short visit to Broughty Ferry, a small but charming seaside suburb close to Dundee.

17. Iona and Staffa

Located off the West Coast of Scotland, Iona and Staffa are two small islands in the Inner Hebrides.

Pristine white beaches, ancient history, dramatic coastal sceneries and abundance of rich marine life – the islands of Iona and Staffa are some of the best places to travel in Scotland.

To reach here, board a ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull, another beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides, and then catch another ferry from there. The journey takes you through some of the most spectacular sceneries of Scotland.

Iona is the most important religious site in the UK and is believed to be the birthplace of Christianity in this country.

Iona Abbey is the main tourist attraction here. Also, there are various short walking routes around the island, with peaceful hidden beaches waiting to be discovered.

After exploring Iona, hop on a boat to visit the Isle of Staffa, a tiny uninhabited island with a large seabird population.

One of the most unique features of Staffa is the hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed millions of years ago by volcanic activities. And, of course, listen to the atmospheric sounds of Fingal’s Cave, one of the most spectacular sea caves in the whole of Scotland.

This area is a heaven for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. In the summer months, you can spot puffins here.

18. Isle of Arran

If you think you’ve seen all of the most beautiful places in Scotland, rest assured there are plenty of off-the-beaten paths left to explore.

Popularly known as Scotland in Miniature, Isle of Arran is the largest island on the Firth of Clyde. Situated on the west coast of Scotland, Arran is connected to the mainland through ferry services.

Arran is one of the best day trip destinations from Glasgow due to easy access by public transport.

From historic castles to towering mountains, Arran showcases all the best things in Scotland.

Keen walkers might be interested in hiking Goatfell, the highest point on Arran. From the summit, you will get a breathtaking view of the island.

Another popular family-friendly walk in Arran is to the Machrie Moor stone circles. Our personal favourite is the Glen Rosa circuit.

Drive along the coast to visit some of the small villages, including Lochranza, Lamlash and Blackwaterfoot.

Brodick is the main village of Arran. History lovers can take a tour of the nearby Brodick Castle, which was once the seat of the Dukes of Hamilton.

19. Border Abbeys and St Abbs

Often overlooked by visitors in favour of popular sites, the border area in Scotland is filled with many historic ruins and stately homes, rolling hills and charming towns .

Scottish Borders is home to four magnificent abbey ruins – Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh Abbey, all not too far from each other. Exploring these abbeys and learning their intriguing past makes up for an excellent day trip from Edinburgh .

They were all founded around the 12th century under the patronage of King David I of Scotland. Among them, Melrose Abbey is the best preserved and most popular one.

Another unmissable place in the Scottish Borders is our personal favourite, St Abbs, a wee seaside village famous for its rich wildlife, rugged coastline and delicious locally caught seafood.

For such a small place, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in St Abbs .

The walk to the nearby St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve is a must for all visitors and boasts spectacular views. It is a heaven for birdwatchers. During spring and summer months, this place is home to thousands of seabirds.

20. Skara Brae

Step inside one of the perfectly preserved Stone Age villages in Europe.

Located on the island of Orkney, about 10 miles off the north coast of Scotland, Skara Brae is much older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids. The five-thousand-year-old village was hidden under a sand dune until it was discovered in 1850 after a storm.

Skara Brae is one of the four Neolithic sites in Orkney that have been designated World Heritage Sites status by UNESCO. Together, they are known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. 

Visiting Skara Brae gives travellers a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into the lives of our Neolithic ancestors and uncover the ancient past of Scotland. 

It is a remarkable experience to stroll around the Neolithic houses and learn their stories. You can find several artefacts used by the villagers.

If you have time, we recommend exploring the other prehistoric sites in Orkney, such as the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe and Stones of Stenness.

21. Dunnottar Castle

Scotland has no shortage of historic castles. But our list of the most spectacular sights in Scotland will be incomplete without mentioning the magnificent Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire. 

Sitting proudly over a 160-foot-high rugged headland and enclosed by the North Sea on three sides, Dunnottar Castle has an enviable setting. You have to climb a narrow winding path to visit it.

It is surely one of the most striking castles in Scotland .

This medieval fortress was once a stronghold of the Clan Keith. The Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden here when Oliver Cromwell’s army attacked Scotland in the 17th century.

Aberdeenshire is famous for its numerous castles and stately houses. So, while you are in this area, be sure to check out Castle Fraser, Craigievar Castle and Balmoral Castle as well.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Scotland 

Our favourite places to visit in Scotland are spread around the country. To help you plan your next holiday, we have added them to this map. Click here to open the Google Maps. You can save it to use later.

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The best places to visit in Scotland

By Mike MacEacheran

When it comes to travel-bragging,  Scotland has it all: outstanding castles, clan history and just-caught crustaceans; misty mountains, moorland and an almost make-believe atlas of islands ; brain-hurting whisky, bronze beaches and waggly bums under kilts.

Before travelling though, the hardest part is finding answers to the most commonly asked questions: what are the best places to visit in Scotland? where are  the most beautiful places in Scotland ? What extraordinary sights shouldn’t be missed? And where are the most memorable places to stay ? To help you get to grips with the spirit of this wild, wonderful and, often, wet country, here’s our pick of the best places to visit in Scotland.

When is the best month to visit Scotland?

Scotland is beautiful at all times during the year, but we recommend visiting between May and September for the sunniest and warmest weather. You'll also get the most daylight during these months - perfect for exploring. However, if you're interested in seeing the dreamy, snow-capped mountains , then a winter trip is for you.

These are the best places to visit in Scotland

1. edinburgh.

This heart-thumping  capital was built out of fire and stone: around the geological drama of panoramic Arthur’s Seat and the volcanic plug of  Castle Rock , where the mightiest fortification in Britain looms like a medieval fantasy. Between the two runs the fabulous-but-frenzied Royal Mile, a raked boulevard of lopsided tollbooths, wizard hat spires, quality knitwear shops, pavement artists and hidden corners that’ll have you ferreting from townhouse museum to historic pub . At all times, there’s a sense of theatre.

This sets the scene for Edinburgh’s Old Town, but beyond its cobblestoned wynds you could easily spend up to a week plotting trips to its terrific neighbourhoods: the love of good food , drink, and culture shines out strongest in the New Town, West End, Stockbridge, Bruntsfield, Morningside and Leith. Elsewhere, museums are rarely as uplifting as the  National Museum of Scotland or  Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ,  and there is a greatest hits of unforgettable places to stay. Two highlights are refreshed classic  The Balmoral , or burlesque-meets-rockstar hotel  House of Gods .

There used to be a slightly off-putting industrial swagger to  Scotland’s largest city , but it’s now the country’s walloping cultural heart and its creative side transcends its reputation for hard drinking, rain and sectarianism — nowadays, you’re more likely to experience  Michelin-star cuisine in the West End, a  Zaha Hadid-designed museum , or master works from the likes of Rembrandt and Van Gogh at the  Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum . Perhaps though, it’s the day-go orange traffic cone that’s repeatedly placed on the Duke of Wellington statue outside the  Gallery of Modern Art that best sums up the city; Glasgow is funny, friendly and nothing without its people.

Everyone should visit the Glasgow-meets-Gotham hilltop  Necropolis and mosh at a gig at the  Barrowland Ballroom — hands-down the country’s best live music venue — while there’s no better place to go gourmet than in Finnieston (rejoice while eating at  The Gannet or,  UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers ). For a showstopper of a hotel, the address you’re after is  Kimpton Blythswood Square , now how to a game-changing rooftop spa.

Packed with coastal treasures, castles and creel pot fishermen, yet ignored by most tourists (with the exception of holy grail-chasing golfers en route to  St Andrews ), this former Pictish kingdom pulls off one of the greatest tricks in the country. There are no myth-making lochs or mist-wrapped glens, yet the peninsula’s coastal paths and pastel-coloured harbour towns leave as much of an impression as anywhere.

Highlights abound, but favourites include:  Dunfermline Abbey and Palace , to see the ancient resting place of Scotland’s kings and queen; the terrific time-warp villages of the  East Neuk , including Elie, Crail and Anstruther; and St Andrews, the high altar of  championship golf , where the soft thwack of dimpled balls can be best heard from the fairway-view rooms of  Rusacks St Andrews . It’s worth the trip for the food alone too: particularly at beloved restaurant with rooms  The Peat Inn .

4. Borders Abbey Towns

María Casbas

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Preposterously beautiful, this is where Sir Walter Scott — Scotland’s man of letters and author of Rob Roy and Ivanhoe — waxed lyrical. From west to east, it’s worth coming for the country’s grandest estate ( Floors Castle , near Kelso); the most suspenseful Neo-medieval home ( Abbotsford House , where Scott quilled his most famous works); and a succession of handsome, if near-derelict, stone abbeys that run from  Melrose to  Dryburgh — here the dead are never far from the living. In particular,  Jedburgh ’s bone-relic masterpiece is where the Romanesque runs riot.

There is quiet ambition here, especially at  SCHLOSS Roxburghe , the Borders’ flagship country house hotel with perfume-scented new spa, but drill down and it’s clear this is a swathe of Scotland that’s waiting to be rediscovered all over again. Summing it all up is  The Great Tapestry of Scotland , the brainchild of Edinburgh-based author  Alexander McCall Smith and a masterpiece of artistry in Galashiels that weaves together the country’s 420-million year history, from the prehistoric to the devolved  Scottish Parliament .

5. Glen Coe

Rain or shine, the slow tick of tourists along the deer-stalked A82 road is evidence that this  steep-sided valley , with mountains brimming with lost valleys and stories of Scottish clans, will never fall out of popularity. And it is not just the box-office movies shot here ( Harry Potter , Skyfall , Braveheart , Highlander ) that encourage impulses of adventure. It is also the craggy-faced Munros (hills over 3,000ft), of which there are more than a score, and the adjoining valleys — few come close to Glen Etive for centrefold beauty. For a hotel of some stature,  Glencoe House Hotel is wrapped up in period treasures, while  The Pierhouse in nearby Port Appin is perfection; the most joyous moment being the menu of shellfish wizardry.

6. Braemar & the Cairngorms

A village of steadings,  Braemar is the gateway to both  Cairngorms National Park and the Caledonian pine estate and castle of  Balmoral , the Scottish residence of the Royals since it was snapped up by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852. There’s a nature is king vibe throughout — days are spent in muddy boots on hiking trails, or wader-deep in the salmon-stocked River Dee — but that’s not to say the area doesn’t keep everyone happy. There’s  Braemar Castle for history; nearby  Glenshee Snowsports Centre for winter pursuits;  Mar Lodge Estate for red deer, red squirrels and golden eagle sightings; September’s  The Braemar Gathering for kilted men tossing cabers; and  The Fife Arms for unflappable service and understated luxury. Clever Swiss art dealers Ivan and Manuela Wirth clocked that the former coaching inn could be a real asset and now they’ve turned it into a Brigadoon fantasy of modern art, Victoriana and country sports lifestyle. There’s no other hotel in Scotland with a Picasso hung next to the fireplace, that’s for sure.

7. Loch Ness

The original Highland must-do, where tourists cruise under bruise-purple skies to catch a glimpse of the water’s mythic long-necked cryptid Nessie,  Loch Ness remains a place of good-natured, family-friendly fun. Days are changing though, and while a boat trip from contrived monster HQ  Drumnadrochit and tumble through time at toothy  Urquhart Castle on the loch’s banks are prerequisites, extra dimensions are now being added.

Tackle the  Loch Ness 360° Trail , an 80-mile activity trail for hikers, trail runners and riders made up of two separate trails, or venture west into elemental Glens  Affric , Cannich and Moriston, where the story of rewilding (where ecological restoration marries conservation) is at its most remarkable. In 2023, look out for the world’s first rewilding centre on eco-charity  Trees for Life ’s  Dundreggan Estate . The area makes for several scenic stays, too: consider one of  Eagle Brae ’s ten luxury log cabins above Carnoch, or  Foyers Lodge , a Victorian-era retreat on Loch Ness’ eastern shores.

8. Northwest Highlands

Rippling mountains and moors, lochs that’ll have you believing in fairies and monsters, and a geological timeline older than all life itself are just a handful of lures that define a visit to the areas of  Wester Ross and  Sutherland . This is the Highlands of the imagination and you quickly get a taste for life in coastal towns like tiny Torridon, Kinlochewe and Ullapool. For beaches, put Clachtoll and Achmelvich at the top of your list, while for sumptuous stays it’s  The Torridon , with a spine-straightening view of Beinn Alligin and the  Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve from its whisky bar, or  Shieldaig Lodge , a spruced-up grouse shooting estate with 26,000-acres to yomp across. The rush around the ludicrously-popular  North Coast 500 circuit bypasses many of the finest nooks in this part of Scotland — one such triumph is the Wee Mad Road, a stretch of hairpin-bend heaven between Lochinver and Kylesku.

9. Isle of Skye

Skye ’s blessing is also its curse. Its Mordor-like mountains, dragon-scale pinnacles and Jurassic-era landslips — chiefly, the Cuillins, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing — are now Instagram stars thanks to sheer good looks,  Hollywood movies and a Harry Styles’ pop video. That makes it insanely popular, but there are still plenty of low-key destinations where you can escape the phone-touting crowds. The day-long hike to Sgùrr na Strì delivers on the promise of the most spectacular sea-to-sky viewpoint in Britain, while the Elgol and  Sleat peninsulas to the southwest are pared-back compared to Portree and  Staffin . Hotel-wise, the best place to be is either  Kinloch Lodge , for belt-loosening cuisine and sing-worthy service, or  Flodigarry Hotel , an off-compass outpost with a fancy-pants design bar and suites that wouldn’t look out of place in the  Maldives .

10. South Harris

Much as on a Pacific Ocean atoll, you start to notice how the combination of fudgy sand, sea mist and sun on this  Outer Hebridean island is utterly hypnotic.  Luskentyre Sands and those scalloped along the western coast of this so-called island (it’s attached to North Harris by a spit of land) instil a sense of life worth living away from the rest of the world and, should the weather hold, this is Scotland worth the T-shirt tan.

Beyond the machair, Harris is imbued with craftsmanship and community and that’s best discovered on a visit to a  Harris Tweed weaver or wool fabric showroom in Tarbert, or indeed at the  Isle of Harris Distillery , where sugar kelp and botanicals marry to create a gin that turns steel-grey water into something extraordinary. There is one road around the island and if anywhere was made for a camper van trip it’s the Outer Hebrides — continue south via the Uists through the croft-dotted landscape of naked hills and empty beaches to  Barra and Vatersay . Oh, what a privilege.

Orkney is a North Sea archipelago with a story that no one fully understands. It showcases a different strata of history at every turn, from the Mesolithic and Neolithic to the Pictish and Viking, and it’s hard to imagine anywhere on Earth with more archaeological treasures in such a small area — hardly a week goes by when a tomb, cairn, or artefact isn’t unearthed from its soil or along a beach. There are 70 islands in total, but for those short on time Mainland and  Hoy are the main draws, with the Unesco-worthy sights of  Skara Brae , the  Ring of Brodgar and  St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall the best-preserved storehouses of Orcadian history.

Did someone mention whisky? Life might not always have been easy on this  Southern Hebridean island , but islanders have certainly begun to reap the rewards. Currently, there are nine single malt distilleries on Islay (soon to be 10 with Port Ellen) and, from old-timers  Lagavulin and  Laphroaig in the south to jazzed-up  Caol Ila and newcomer  Ardnahoe overlooking island neighbour  Jura , it’s unashamedly a whisky drinker’s kind of place.

But while it provides a haven for barley growers and peat smokers (tobacco is the main flavour profile of many of the Islay malts), the island is changing focus to cater for all. Many distilleries now operate family-friendly tours and cafes, the Atlantic beaches dazzle and trains of seabirds and dolphins linger around the coast. For a slice of self-contained bliss,  The Machrie is marooned on The Big Strand beach and is as close as Islay gets to Hebridean seventh heaven.

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25 Best Things to Do in Scotland, According to Local Experts

Local experts share their favorite things to do in Scotland — from hiking in the Highlands to enjoying the country’s classic dishes.

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If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, there’s a good chance your to-do list is already extensive. Walking the picturesque streets of Edinburgh, heading to the Highlands, buying a tartan accessory or two, and attending a whisky tasting are likely strong contenders. If that’s the case, you’re not alone. “Many visitors come to Scotland for a week for their first visit trying to see it all, and end up realizing that it’s a country of many contrasts,” says Katy Fennema, whisky ambassador for The Fife Arms , a boutique five-star hotel in Braemar. “The wise ones then plan their second, third, and fourth trips at a more leisurely pace.”

To help curate your itinerary — whether it’s for your initial visit or one of the slower-paced return trips — we tapped a few of the country’s most knowledgeable residents, Fennema included, for their best tips. Read on to discover the 25 best things to do in Scotland.

Explore the Hebrides.

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An archipelago off the west coast of Scotland, the Hebrides are made of 40 islands and numerous islets, all divided into the Inner and Outer Hebrides. “The Gulf Stream dominates here, allowing palm trees (somewhat incongruously) to grow in Scotland and plants from South America to thrive. It’s not unusual to discover a white-sand beach all to yourself, and whether the weather is tropical or otherwise, I defy anyone to not fall in love with this special part of Scotland,” says Fennema.

Play a round or two at the “home of golf.”

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The game of golf goes back 600 years, with its origins in St. Andrews, a seaside town in northwest Scotland. St Andrews Links has seven public courses, including the “oldest course in the world,” aptly named Old Course.

Eat Scottish tablet.

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“If you are traveling to Scotland, you must try the traditional Scottish tablet, which is a centuries-old recipe. Historians believe that the first tablet recipe was recorded in 1700, and it’s still a much-loved and enjoyed sweet treat,” says David Musk, head concierge at The Balmoral , one of Edinburgh’s top hotels. It’s a bit like fudge, but grainier and more brittle; Musk recommends this recipe if you want to make it yourself.

Look out for the northern lights.

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When the right conditions are met — no clouds, increased solar activity, and limited pollution — there’s a chance you’ll see the northern lights in Scotland. Aim to visit between September through March, and head north to the places best known for their vantage points: the Shetland Islands, the Outer Hebrides, and the Isle of Skye.

Hike up a hill.

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“Our remote glens, or valleys, are best viewed from above. It’s here that you can really appreciate their remoteness and extraordinary beauty,” says Fennema. For a casual hike, she suggests Ben Lomond ; more adventurous explorers can try Bealach na Bà , “a formidable single-track road through the mountains on the Applecross Peninsula that gives wonderful views from a car or bike (if you’re feeling brave!).”

Walk the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

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One of the best ways to see Edinburgh’s Old Town is to walk the Royal Mile, a cobblestoned stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll find shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes, and various attractions, including The Scotch Whisky Experience , which Musk recommends. “Visitors can take a tour of the virtual distillery and learn about the distilling process, then discover the art of whisky blending in a guided sensory presentation,” he says.

Eat a Scottish breakfast.

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“Different from an English, Welsh, or Irish Breakfast, a Scottish Breakfast, or ‘fry up,’ serves up two different Scottish delicacies, haggis and black pudding. And, not forgetting the important addition of a potato, or tattie, scone or two, and a Lorne, or square, sausage,” says Lucy Paul, marketing executive at the National Trust for Scotland .

Cozy up by a fireplace at one of Scotland’s best hotels.

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After a chilly day trekking through the rugged Scottish landscape, there’s nothing better than settling down by a roaring fire with a warm drink in hand. Guests at Gleneagles , a five-star hotel renowned for its country pursuits, can sip fireside cocktails at The American Bar, and those staying at The Fife Arms can enjoy a whisky in the Drawing Room. 

Attend the Highland games.

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For hundreds of years, Highland games have been an important part of Scottish culture. The tradition continues today, with sports like tug of war, the hammer throw, and the caber toss — as well as dancing, music, parades, and food — populating the schedule. Highland games take place across the country from May through September, but the Braemar Gathering is one of the most well-known, as it’s regularly attended by the Royal Family.

Visit a castle.

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“Scotland is renowned across the world for its beautiful castles , and with hundreds to visit, it can be difficult to decide where to go,” says Musk. He recommends taking a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle , which he describes as “an icon of Scotland,” driving out to Eilean Donan Castle , “one of the most photographed castles in the country,” and stopping at Fyvie Castle , an 800-year-old fortress “filled with legends, folklore, and even many ghost stories.”

Ski in the Cairngorms.

In the colder months, winter sports take center stage at Cairngorm Mountain . Located in Cairngorms National Park, the ski area has 30 kilometers of runs and 12 surface lifts. The mountain is known to accommodate skiers of all levels, from first-timers to experts.

Taste a few whiskies.

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One thing’s for sure: There’s plenty of whisky in Scotland. You’ll have your pick of distilleries to visit as you explore each region of the country. Glenfiddich Distillery is one of the most famous, The Glenmorangie Distillery Co has the tallest stills in Scotland, and Royal Lochnagar Distillery is just a mile from the Royal Family’s Scottish castle, Balmoral. For a more intimate experience, try Bertie’s Whisky Bar at The Fife Arms. The extensive collection — over 400 whiskies — is arranged by flavor profile, from light to dark. “Our tastings include four whiskies, one from each flavor profile, and are a great route to experience the breadth of flavors from Scotland’s (inter)national drink,” says Fennema.

Step back in time at the Highland Folk Museum.

Courtesy of the Highland Folk Museum

The title of Britain’s first open-air museum goes to the Highland Folk Museum , which showcases life in the Highlands from the 1700s to the 1950s. Open from April through October, the museum’s 35 historical buildings and live actors demonstrate how people worked, lived, and spent their free time in the past.

Take a day trip to Glasgow.

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The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is known for its art and diverse architecture, but its people are also an important part of the experience; Fennema notes that “Glaswegian hospitality is legendary. “You arrive as a stranger, and leave as a friend.” While there, Paul recommends visiting the Tenement House , an “authentic time capsule of life.” “Open the door to early 20th-century Glasgow life and discover quirky items, including a ball of soap, turned jet black from years of handling, and a jar of plum jam made in 1929,” she says.

Try haggis, the national dish of Scotland.

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Haggis is made of the liver, lungs, and heart of a sheep, beef or mutton suet, oatmeal, onion, and spices. It’s boiled in a bag — although, traditionally, it’s a bag made from the animal’s stomach. Don’t let that scare you off, though; depending on how it’s cooked, haggis is peppery and almost sausage-like.  “For the less intrepid, and those who don’t eat meat, vegetarian haggis is a delicious alternative and a firm favorite in our omnivorous household,” says Fennema.

Get into the holiday spirit at the Edinburgh Winter Festival.

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The beginning of the holiday season also marks the opening of the Edinburgh Winter Festival . From late November to early January, the city hosts a variety of festivities and Christmas markets . Head to Princes Street Gardens for a true holiday wonderland; the traditional Christmas market is filled with vendors offering mulled wine, sausages, gifts, and more.

Drive to the village of Glencoe.

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“No description can recreate the impact of seeing Glencoe for the first time. It has long been one of the most loved places in Scotland,” says Paul. Located in the Scottish Highlands, it’s an amazing spot for hillwalking, mountaineering, and waterfall spotting. “It’s known equally for its awe-inspiring views and sorrowful past – it is a place of history, wildlife, adventure, and myth. The mountains were formed through violent volcanic eruptions and then sculpted by massive glaciers. Also, don’t miss the reconstruction of a 300-year-old turf and creel house ,” says Paul.

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train.

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Harry Potter enthusiasts will immediately recognize the arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct as part of the Hogwarts Express route in the movies. While you can visit the iconic site by foot, you can also ride the Jacobite Steam Train across the viaduct; the 84-mile round trip starts in Fort William and ends in Mallaig.

Take a dip in one of Scotland’s many lochs.

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Scotland boasts thousands of freshwater lochs, many of which welcome wild swimming. The gorgeous Loch Lomond serves as a gateway to the Highlands and the Lowlands, Loch Duntelchaig is great for snorkeling, and there are lots of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals around Loch Awe. “ Loch Awe is filled with history and culture and… [it] supports an enormous and diverse range of wildlife including golden eagles, ospreys, and pine marten,” says Musk. 

Walk the West Highland Way.

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You’re guaranteed to get your steps in along the 96-mile West Highland Way, one of the best walking paths in the United Kingdom . The route is typically completed from South to North — Milngavie to Fort William — and the terrain gets trickier the further you go.

Immerse yourself in the Edinburgh Art Festival.

Every year, the U.K.'s largest annual festival of visual arts, the Edinburgh Art Festival , comes to Scotland. During the month of August, the festival hosts exhibitions, projects, and events across the city and features both established artists as well as up-and-comers. 

Tour Culloden Battlefield.

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Those interested in Scottish history will have no shortage of things to do and see around the country.  “If you want to experience the site of one of Scotland’s most famous battles, this is a must-see in the Highlands, especially if you are a fan of Outlander . A powerfully emotive and atmospheric place, the battlefield is where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end – and you can discover the true story in the museum ,” says Paul.

Come aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

“The Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-visit tourist attraction in Edinburgh,” says Musk. Five decks on Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's former floating palace are open to visitors, who can explore the engine room, the crew’s quarters, and the state apartments, among others. Pre-booking tickets is highly recommended. 

Drive the North Coast 500.

Chris J/500px/Getty Images

The only way to truly immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking scenery is to circumnavigate the 516 miles of the North Coast 500 . There are a variety of exact itineraries to use as inspiration, but for the most part, you’ll need between seven and nine days to complete the circuit.

Celebrate Hogmanay on December 31.

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Hogmanay festivities occur across the country as Scottish residents and visitors say goodbye to the past year and ring in the new one. Edinburgh is particularly known for its celebrations, with fireworks, concerts, parades, and parties marking the occasion. 

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20 best places to visit in scotland [2024 travel guide].

Scotland is packed with beautiful places to visit.

You could honestly spend months and months exploring everything this wonderful country has to offer.

Which is exactly what we have done!

We have returned for five extensive trips since we converted our camper back in 2020.

And have spent more than 9 months combined, living and traveling through this absolutely breathtaking country.

Below I want to help you save time planning your own trip to Scotland, by taking you through what we believe to be the absolute best places to visit there this year.

ALL based on where we have personally visited.

Let's get straight into it ...

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Scotland is the sort of place that offers something all year round, but different seasons have their perks. 

For example, if you visit in summer, you’ll have a higher chance of great sunshine, but you’ll be surrounded by midges.

If you don’t know what midges are, they’re the most annoying little mite/fly ever.

We first encountered them at the famous Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, and have feared them ever since!

We get them in Ireland in the summer too and they love blood, so they lovvvee to bite, and honestly, despite attempts at creams and sprays, they still bite! 

Scotland travel stats show that summer is, of course, the busiest season to visit. So it’ll be busy at most of the attractions, despite the highest chance of warm weather.

We have visited a few times in the autumn months (September to November) and I can honestly say it was perfect. 

Some days you will get lucky with the weather and on our first Autumn visit, we only experienced around a week's worth of rain in the six weeks we were there. 

It was cold but bearable, and I absolutely love being surrounded by autumn colours.

Plus there are two more benefits of visiting in Autumn: no midges AND a lot fewer tourists!

Getting around Scotland: What’s the best option?

• Drive : We 100% recommend driving around Scotland if you get the chance. It was easy for us because we toured Scotland in our self-converted campervan, but it’s super easy to rent a campervan / motorhome in Scotland . There are also plenty of car rentals available if campers aren't your kind of thing. When you drive you gain the ability to explore much more, discover unknown places and even experience wild camping in Scotland .
• ‍ Train : Scotland has a pretty decent train network and you can make it all the major sights in Scotland via train, plus the views on the trains are going to be spectacular. So if you don’t have a driving license, or simply don’t want to drive, then this is a good option. 

20 Best Places to Visit in Scotland 

1. glen coe (my favourite place in scotland).

If you asked me where my favourite place to visit in all of Scotland is….I would say, Glen Coe .

The whole area of Glen Coe constantly had my face in shock due to the beauty that I was witnessing.

I swear it felt like I was transported to another country .

It’s just a stream of dramatic mountains, lakes, rugged beauty and more. It was honestly such a magical place to visit and if you only have time to visit one place make it Glen Coe, it’s truly one of the most magical places in Scotland. 

Things to do in Glen Coe 

• Visit the Famous James Bond picture point (Co-ordinates here) 
• Check out the Glencoe mountain resort (if it’s in season, then ski or snowboard!) 
• Check out Rannoch Moor viewpoint 

2. Fort William

Fort William is probably one of the most well-known places to visit in Scotland.

It’s one of the first big towns in the Scottish Highlands and a popular tourist destination thanks to being home to the UK’s tallest mountain: Ben Nevis.

It’s also home to a ski centre so is a popular place for families to visit! 

We really liked Fort William and if the season was right we would have attempted to climb Ben Nevis, but even if you’re not there for the mountain itself, there are still lots of beautiful walks and views in this area to experience. 

Fort William is also the starting point for one of the world's most famous train rides: The Jacobite .

Harry Potter fans will recognise it as the Hogwarts Express, and this train ride will take you through the beautiful countryside, crossing some iconic Harry Potter filming locations such as the Dumbledore's Grave and the Glenfinnan Viaduct!

Things to do in Fort William 

• Climb Ben Nevis 
• Visit the Ben Nevis Ski Centre (go up the cable car to the mountain restaurant!) 
• Ride the Jacobite steam train 

Where to stay in Fort William

There are lots of great hotels in Fort William, but the Ben Nevis Hotel & Leisure Club has a heated indoor pool, perfect after hiking Ben Nevis!

For more ideas, check out my guide on the best Airbnbs Fort William has to offer.

3. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs national park

Loch Lomond has so much to offer every type of traveller visiting Scotland.

We loved spending time in this park, and when we visited in October, the season had finished for camping permits so we were able to wild camp in some beautiful spots! 

Loch Lomond is packed with amazing views, wonderful waterfalls, gorgeous hikes and abandoned castles.

There is something for everyone.

We loved the Three Lochs Forest drive located within the Trossachs National Park.

It was amazing and we got to wild camp in an amazing spot with no one else around! 

The Ben Lomond peak is the highest in the area, so it’s worth a hike! Bradley did this and found it really enjoyable! 

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Scotland for families! 

Things to do in Loch Lomond 

• Climb Ben Lomond
• Take a boat cruise across Loch Lomond 
• Take the Three Lochs Forest Drive

Where to stay in Loch Lomond

Balloch is a great central town to stay in and the Queen on the Loch offers stylish rooms. For more inspiration, check out our guide on the best places to stay in Loch Lomond .

4. Cairngorms National park

We visited the Cairngorms National Park in December so some of the mountains were beginning to showcase snow, which was super exciting.

This is the largest national park in the UK so it’s another popular place to visit in Scotland and it’s no surprise why.

It’s absolutely beautiful and there’s so much happening at the Cairngorms National Park!

From skiing or meeting local reindeers, you’ll not go bored and you’ll be surrounded by beauty the entire time. 

There are lots of cute towns in this area too, but Aviemore is a good hot spot to visit stock up on snacks, petrol, and rent ski gear, or hiking gear if you need it! 

But my all-time favourite place to visit within the Cairngorms National Park area is the quaint town of Braemar. 

This is everything I wanted from a Scottish town, it’s adorable and oozes charm.

Go to the coffee shop called “The Wee Bothy” for amazing coffee, shortbread and lovely staff! 

I could live there! 

Braemar is also home to Braemar Castle which is super cool!

Visit at night time when it’s lit up for a unique experience. 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park 

• Visit the Cairngorm Mountain for skiing (or get the funicular to the top for epic views!)-- It's due to reopen in late 2022, which means it's been closed for like 4 years. It was closed when we visited too, but the locals working there said the views are great!)
• Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre (this area has the highest proportion of reindeer in Scotland) 
• Check out the Queen's Scottish residence at Balmoral Castle

5. Isle of Skye

We’ve only visited one island off Scotland so far, and that’s the Isle of Skye, but it lived up to our expectations and more!

The Isle of Skye is connected via the “Skye Bridge”, so it’s super convenient to get too. 

This island feels totally different from other parts of Scotland and is truly rugged and ready!

We spent almost a week on the Isle of Skye visiting all the hot spots including the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Glen and so much more.

We even got to stay on a private island with its very own lighthouse, which was one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited and one of the most romantic places stay in Scotland (especially if you’re celebrating something!)

Read more in our Eilean Sionnach Lighthouse Cottage review .

Simply put, the Isle of Skye should be top of your Scotland itinerary! 

When you visit via the Skye bridge, you should definitely make a stop at the Eilean Donan Castle- it’s seriously cool and was free to walk around when we went.

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

• Stay on your own private island 
• Hike the Old Man of Storr 
• Discover Kilt Falls and dinosaur prints

Read More: 3 Day Isle of Skye itinerary

Where to stay on the Isle Of Skye

Check out my in-depth guide on the best places to stay on Skye .

6. The North Coast 

If you’ve decided to road trip the iconic NC500 , which is Scotland’s answer to route 66, then you’ll find yourself passing the North Coast of Scotland! 

We loved the North Coast because again, it offers something unique to other parts of Scotland.

There are lots of great towns along the way, and we can recommend a stop at BettyHill for cute coffee shops and friendly locals. 

When you visit the North Coast you’ll have to stop at John O Groats since it’s the furthest point on mainland UK.

Visit the colourful houses, grab a coffee and then go searching for dolphins, sharks and seals! (We saw seals) 

Things to do on the North Coast of Scotland 

• Visit Smoo Cave (a free, but REALLY cool cave - one of the more unique attractions in Scotland!)
• Visit Duncansby head and stacks (be prepared for wind!)
• Visit the John O Groats beer distillery 

Read More: The Best Road Trips in Scotland

We’ve visited Glasgow twice now, and it will always make my list of the best places to visit in Scotland!

I may struggle with the accent, but the people, the sights, the atmosphere is all worth it. 

Glasgow is an awesome place to have a city break.

The university grounds are beautiful in Autumn, the Kelvin grove Art Gallery & Museum is amazing and there are so many great pubs and bars for buzzing nightlife. 

Things to do in Glasgow

• Check out the Riverside Museum 
• Relax at St George's Square 
• Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum 

Where to stay in Glasgow

There are so many amazing hotels in Glasgow, you can search for them all right here .

8. Galloways (SW Coastal route)

If you want to visit an area of Scotland that’s not overly touristy, then a road trip to the South West Coast should be top of your list.

The Scottish tourism board actually created a road trip called the Southwest Coastal 300 , which you can probably guess is a 300-mile road trip of the south west Coast!

Bradley and I did it and we loved this area of Scotland.

The hub of the area is the Galloways National Park (where you can actually go searching for stars at night), but this area of Scotland is breathtaking but didn’t feel overly busy to me.

There are so many castles and tea rooms here- I LOVED it!

I’d say this is one of the more unique places to visit in Scotland in comparison to everywhere else we visited. 

Things to do on the Southwest Coastal route

• Visit the Galloway Lighthouse (It’s the most south-westerly point in Scotland and you can see 3 other countries from here!) 
• Visit the beautiful Culzean Castle (one of my favourite castles in Scotland)
• Visit Caerlaverock Castle (awh-mazing!)

Where to stay near Galloways National Park

Check out my guide on the best hotels on the west coast of Scotland .

9. Inverness 

Inverness is probably my favourite city in Scotland (that I’ve been too so far). 

I love that it’s a city, but it’s small.

It’s basically the capital of the Scottish Highlands but it’s charming and quaint .

You could easily see all the best sights in Inverness in a day if you’re short for time, but what’s nice about this city is that you can just wander around and explore without the worry of getting lost. 

I also love that Inverness isn’t overpriced, so if you’re looking for one of the more cheap places to visit in Scotland, then Inverness won’t break the bank!

Things to do in Inverness 

• Check out Inverness Castle at sunset 
• Visit the largest second-hand bookstore in Scotland (really cool attraction in Inverness!) 
• Shop at the Victorian Market 

Where to stay in Inverness

There are some great hotel deals in Inverness that you can book right here .

10. Loch Ness

You can’t go to Scotland and NOT go in search of Nessie!

Before we visited Scotland this was definitely one of my bucket list places to visit.

Just because I’ve heard so much about it.

I really wanted to do a Loch Ness cruise and learn more about the myth of Nessie , but we visited during Covid times and they weren’t running due to low visitors! 

But it’s still a cool place to visit in Scotland and we even got to wild camp right on the Loch Ness lake, which was pretty cool.

Since this is only a short drive from Inverness, it’s often a popular day trip for visitors. 

Things to do in Loch Ness

• Take a loch cruise and search for Nessie ( Book your tour right here! )
• Check out Urquhart Castle
• Walk around the loch (there are various small walking trails) 

Where to stay in Loch Ness

Lots of great Airbnbs available, and this Luxury Croft overlooks Loch Ness on it's own private deck, amazing! Book it here .

11. Stirling 

Stirling is a really cool city in Scotland since it’s sort of created around this awesome castle.

It’s a charming city full of character, and I’m pretty sure I counted like 16 coffee shops on my visit.

We wandered the old town, grabbed some lunch and just took in the sights.

We also did a walk just outside the city centre and got epic views from Sterling from above.

I think this is a beautiful place to visit in Scotland if you’re looking for a romantic city break! 

Things to do in Stirling

• Visit Stirling Castle (it’s not cheap though!)
• Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town
• Visit the National Wallace Monument 

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling has a wide range of hotels available that you can book here.

Bradley and I sort of stumbled across Oban because we needed to get a replacement on our van tyre, but it was definitely worth the drive.

Known as the seafood capital of Scotland, this town is a tourist hot spot in the summer months.

It’s small but mighty! 

We wandered around the town, checking out the shops and views of Ballimore and the Isle of Mull.

We also checked out the McCaig's Tower which was really unique and felt like I’d been transported to Rome! 

Things to do in Oban 

• Catch an awesome view at the McCaig's Tower
• Eat seafood at one of the seat front restaurants
• Visit the Oban Distillery 

You may also like: Best dog friendly hotels in Scotland

Where to stay in Oban

Since it's a popular tourist town, there are lots of hotels to choose from.

‍ Check them out here.

13. Glenfinnan 

Glenfinnan is 100% one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland.

Not only can you go to the Glenfinnan Viaduct and catch a view of the Harry Potter train coming across the tracks, but there are so many beautiful walks and sights in this area.

Just across the road from the Viaduct, you’ve got the Glenfinnan Monument with simply amazing views across Loch Shiel and if you drive a little further down the area you’ll come to Loch Eilt which was used a lot in the Harry Potter movies. 

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Catch a view of the Jacobite Express crossing the viaduct 
• Visit the Glenfinnan Station Museum 
• Taking a cruise on Loch Shiel 

Where to stay in Glenfinnan

Cabin Camas Tana is the ultimate place to stay in Glenfinnan; pure Scottish vibes!

‍ Book it here.

14. Mallaig 

Mallaig is a port town in the Scottish Highlands that is significant due to the workings of the town.

You can either drive there or visit as part of a ride on the Jacobite Express , but it’s worth visiting this small area.

It's a one way in, one way out sort of road, but you can get ferries to other islands in Scotland from here, including the Isle of Skye.

This small town is now home to tourism, but once was thriving fishing, working village.

Now you can visit one of the coffee shops, grab a bite to eat, take a walk around the harbour and pick up some souvenirs! 

Things to do in Mallaig

• Visit the Mallaigh Visitor centre 
• Take a walk around the Pier 
• Grab some fish & chips 

Where to stay in Mallaig

Glenwood glamping pods are a great choice!

Book your stay here.

15. Applecross 

Applecross is one of the towns made famous by the NC500 , but what’s really unique about this pace is that it’s literally in the middle of nowhere.

You drive across an epic mountain pass and eventually, you’ll come to the very small town of Applecross.

It’s raw, it’s beautiful and randomly, it’s home to a hotel, Michelin guide restaurant and lots of deer.

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland by car and you can’t get there via public transport. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Drive the epic mountain pass known as Bealach na Bà
• Dine at the Applecross inn
• Take one of the many walking trails on offer 

Where to stay in Applecross

The Applecross Inn of course! Book your stay here.

If that's sold out, Fearnmore House not far from Applecross. Book this Airbnb here.

16. Edinburgh

Last but not least on our Scotland travel guide is to visit the capital city of Edinburgh.

We visited over my birthday and it was fantastic.

Edinburgh was everything I'd hoped it would be and more.

Cute cobblestone streets, a ridiculous amount of cute coffee shops, amazing vibes and much more.

I'd say it's one of the best places to visit in Scotland and makes for a perfect Scottish city break. Better yet, you can always hire a car in Edinburgh and then head out to explore the surrounding area.

Things to do in Edinburgh

• Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle
• Shop at the historical Victoria Street
• Check out the National Museum of Scotland

Where to stay in Edinburgh

It's a capital city so there is lots of choice for accommodation. Including some lovely hotels with pools !

17. Falkirk

Wedged between Glasgow and Edinburgh, Falkirk was an unexpected place to visit, but left a lasting impression!

This is a really cool place to visit in Scotland and is home to some super unique sights. 

Firstly, you’ve got the Falkirk Wheel, which is truly random as it’s the ONLY rotating boat lift in the world. 

This is run by the Scottish Canals and a visit here will allow you to not only take a boat cruise but there is so much to see and do on-site, including, crazy golf, waterpark for kids, segway safari, canoeing, and so much more! 

It’s a perfect place to visit in Scotland if you’ve got children, but both Brad and I enjoyed it as adults! 

Falkirk is also home to “The Kelpies” which are truly epic.

They are 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures depicting kelpies and based on legend.

They are a sight to behold and you should 100% visit at nightfall when they light up. It was a fantastic sight to see, very unusual and one of my favourite things to do in Scotland!

Also, if you’re visiting a campervan or motorhome, you can stay at the Helix Carpark (which is where the Kelpies are” for £5 a night which is perfect if you want to see them lit up in the evening! 

Things to do in Falkirk 

• Ride the Falkirk Wheel 
• Admire the Kelpies at night 
• Check out the Torwood Blue Pool

Where to stay in Falkirk 

If you’re not wild camping, then there are a range of hotels in Falkirk to suit you, and you can even rent out boats on the Scottish canals! 

18. Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a coastal city in Scotland located on the east coast.

It’s a typical port city and offers ample opportunities for shopping.

But when visiting here, I suggest you head to the beach, park up, take a stroll along the promenade, and perhaps grab a bite to eat at one of the many on-beach restaurants and cafes.

Then, you should visit Codona's amusement park, which again is perfect for kids, or just big kids like Brad and I. 

We had a wander and played some crazy golf, but there’s also really cool go-kart racing, roller coasters, general amusement games, and much more! 

Things to do in Aberdeen 

• Go on a shopping spree
• Have fun at Codona’s amusement park
• Take a day trip to Craigievar Castle (the pink castle of Scotland!)

Where to stay in Aberdeen 

Being a very popular coastal city, there's lots of choice for accommodation that you can check out here.

19. St Andrews 

Golf enthusiasts will want to visit St Andrews for the fact that it’s home to one of the world’s most famous and oldest golf courses!

‍ That’s partly why Bradley wanted to visit, and we managed to visit on a day where the sun was shining, so we strolled alongside the golf courses and the beautiful beach. 

But, even if you’re not interested in golf, St Andrews should still be on your list of places to visit in Scotland because it’s a super cute and beautiful town!

Lots of sweet shops, cafes, and much more.

We situated ourselves in the British Golf Museums restaurants because they offered amazing views of the beach and golf courses and a range of great food- so we can recommend there! 

Things to do in St Andrews 

• Walk beside the golf courses of St Andrews 
• Stroll along the beach and if you’re brave, try surfing 
• Check out St Andrews cathedral and St Andrews Castle 

Where to stay in St Andrews 

Find all the best accommodation in St Andrews right here.

20. Portknockie

This is a cute little village on the Northeast coast of Scotland and if you’re driving the North East 250 Scotland road trip , then you’ll come across it.

I signify this as a point of interest because it’s got a couple of good sites around it.

Firstly, you’ll have to visit Bow Fiddle Rock which is truly an amazing natural rock formation, and worth visiting, and secondly, there is also Findlater Castle not far down the road. 

Things to do in Portknockie (The North East of Scotland) 

• Grab fish and chips in the village town 
• Take photos of the epic Bow Fiddle Rock 
• Check out the remains of Findlater Castle 

Where to stay in the North East of Scotland

There are lots of places to choose from when it comes to hotels in the North East of Scotland, and Portknockie is home to selection too.

Over to you

‍ So there you have it, my guide to the best places to visit in Scotland.

I hope you’ve found this guide helpful or inspirational in planning your next Scottish adventure.

Which one are you most excited to visit?

Drop me a comment below.

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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 . 

An email you’ll actually love

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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The 25 Best Things to do in Scotland (From a Local!)

From soaring mountain peaks to glorious glens and beautiful lochs, Scotland is a country that’s bursting with spectacular scenery and fantastic places to visit. Scotland is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and you can spend weeks at a time hiking long-distance trails, bagging Munros, and camping out in the wilderness. 

You can delve into the folklore on the Isle of Skye, go birdwatching on St Kilda, or spot wildlife in the Shetlands. There are monsters to be searched for at Loch Ness, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom (Ben Nevis) is waiting to be climbed, and the Isle of Lewis and Harris is the perfect destination for beachgoers. 

In the Orkney Islands, you’ll find ancient stone circles and Neolithic settlements, while museums and galleries are on every street in Edinburgh and Glasgow . And across Scotland, there are medieval castles and country estates waiting to be explored. 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Scotland for you. Stick to these fun and unique Scotland bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this beautiful part of the world!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to do in Scotland

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The 25 Best Things to do in Scotland

1. climb ben nevis – scotland’s highest mountain.

Rising to an altitude of 1,345 meters, Ben Nevis has the lofty distinction of being the highest mountain in Scotland. But it’s more than this because Ben Nevis, which sits in the midst of the Scottish Highlands, is the tallest mountain to be found anywhere in the United Kingdom! 

Ben Nevis is part of the Grampian Mountains, and it’s located close to the town of Fort William, which is generally considered to be Scotland’s adventure capital. Ben Nevis can be climbed in one day, but you do need to be physically fit and have some experience hiking up mountains if you decide to tackle the summit on your own. 

Starting at the Visitors Centre at the base of the mountain, most travelers will take the Mountain Track, which is the easiest route to the top. We say easy, but it’s still going to take you at least 6 hours to get there and back again!

Now, 1,345 meters might not seem that tall either, especially if you’re from or have visited other more mountainous parts of the world. While you won’t get altitude sickness climbing Ben Nevis, you do still need to be prepared for the weather to turn. 

The Scottish Highlands have notoriously poor weather conditions, and even in the summer, you need to be ready to navigate through thick fog and deal with torrential rain, wind, or even snow. With a bit of planning and a little training, though, Ben Nevis can be conquered, making this one of the best things to do in Scotland! 

2. Road trip the North Coast 500

One of the coolest things to do in Scotland is the North Coast 500, or NC500, a spectacular self-driving route that takes you through Northern Scotland’s most beautiful scenery. The NC500 is 516 miles long (hence the name!), and it was designed to link up the best outdoor, cultural, and historical attractions to the north of Inverness.

You can rent a car – or better yet, a campervan – and take it slow as you road trip the NC500. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even cycle the route. Your road trip begins (and ends) in Inverness, and you can start by heading west to meet the coast at Applecross. 

From Applecross, you’ll head north. Sort of. The road here starts to get bendy as you weave your way along the rocky western shores, driving around long peninsulas and crossing dramatic bridges that span the lochs and estuaries. 

When you make it to the north coast, you can stop off at John O’groats, the most northerly point in mainland Britain. From there, it’s back south, following the eastern shore as you weave your way down to finish the road trip in Inverness. 

This is one of the best Scottish activities, and you’ll be awed by the sheer beauty of the Highlands and the coastal scenery. Although the weather is best in the summer, it can get spectacularly busy, too. If you can, we recommend trying to tackle the NC500 outside of peak holidays. We also recommend camping out to escape the crowds. 

3. Ride the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig

Have you ever seen the Harry Potter movies? If the answer is “yes,” you’ll have seen the Hogwarts Express as it steams its way through dramatic mountain scenery. That’s not CGI because it was the historic Jacobite Steam Train that stood in for the Hogwarts Express in many of the external shots. 

The Jacobite runs on the West Highland Line, a 42-mile railway track that connects Fort William to Mallaig. The journey takes around 2 hours to complete. During the trip, you’ll be enjoying the comforts of a vintage railway carriage (you can order cream teas on board!) as the steam train whistles and chugs its way across the Highlands to the most westerly train station in Britain.

Along the way, you’ll have unreal views of the Scottish Highlands as you leave Fort William in a cloud of smoke before rushing headlong over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. You’ll see mountains, lakes, and rivers before alighting the train next to the banks of the deepest loch in Europe. 

You can hang around in Mallaig – which sits perfectly on the western coast of Scotland – or head off to explore the islands of the Hebrides. Alternately, you can jump back on board in the afternoon and head back to Fort William if you’re in a hurry. The Jacobite Steam Train runs twice a day in both directions from April through the end of October. 

4. Walk along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

Edinburgh is Scotland’s lofty capital city, and it’s a capital that’s packed with regal history and royal charm. A trip to Edinburgh is a must when you visit Scotland, especially if it’s your first time in the country, and a walk along Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile should be at the top of your Scotland bucket list!

This is the most iconic street in Scotland, and it runs for one “Scottish Mile” (which is longer than your average mile!) from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle . Along the way, you can stop off at some of the capital’s most historic attractions, starting with the British monarchy’s official Scottish residence at Holyrood. 

After gazing at stately halls and lavish regalia, continue along the Royal Mile, passing the Scottish Parliament and important locations such as Canongate. You can stop off at the National Museum of Edinburgh or take a break for a refreshing pint of beer in one of the many pubs along the route. 

Edinburgh Castle sits at the top of a craggy, volcanic rock at the far end of the Royal Mile. As you near the castle’s imposing medieval gates, you might find bagpipers playing tunes for the tourists. 

Stroll through the gates, and you’ll find yourself inside the walls of Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll be surrounded by centuries of Scottish history. The castle dates back to at least the 11th century AD, but the volcanic rock that it sits upon has been a fortress for millennia. You can walk the castle’s walls, enjoy glorious views over the city from the towers, and learn about the local history in the castle’s museums. 

5. Delve into the National Museum of Scotland

You can’t escape the history when you visit Scotland, so dig in and learn more about the nation’s rich heritage with a visit to the National Museum of Scotland !

This is the nation’s number one museum, and it’s devoted to uncovering, exploring, and displaying Scotland’s past, present, and future for all to see. You’ll find the museum in Edinburgh, set back a few streets from the Royal Mile, and what better setting could there be than the capital for a national museum?

Be prepared for a deep dive because the National Museum of Scotland offers a wealth of displays and exhibitions delving back as far as the county’s prehistoric era. You’ll move swiftly through history as you learn about the Scots who shaped Scotland and how Scotland helped shape the world. 

Save a few hours for this museum when you are in Edinburgh because you’re going to need all the time in the world to see everything that’s on display. There are exhibits on fashion, transport, medicine, conflict, politics, and so much more, making this one of the best places to visit in Scotland!

6. Hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat (Edinburgh’s extinct volcano)

If you’re exploring Edinburgh, then the hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat is one of the most unique things to do in Scotland. Arthur’s Seat is the best viewpoint in the city, but it’s more than this because Arthur’s Seat is also an ancient, extinct volcano. 

This unusual natural feature is a symbol of the Scottish capital. It rises high above the Parliament building and Holyrood Palace, standing guard over Scotland’s institutions and people. The volcano is located at the end of the Royal Mile, and despite being a wild and natural place to explore, it’s so very close to the city. 

You can start your hike at Holyrood Palace before walking through Holyrood Park and then following the trail to the top of Arthur’s Seat. The top of the extinct volcano is some 250 meters above sea level, but the hike is fairly gentle and should take no more than 30 minutes each way. If you’re down for some exercise, though, you can join the many trail-running locals who use Arthur’s Seat for training!

From the top, you’ll have spectacular views across to the Firth of Forth in one direction and down to Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh in the other.

7. Follow the ‘Castle Trail’ in Aberdeenshire

Visit Aberdeenshire, and you’ll find that the county has more castles than anywhere else in Scotland, with a grand total of 260 fortifications, ruins, and country estates dotted across the region. 

That’s more castles than you could ever hope to see in one trip to Scotland, but you can enjoy a whistle-stop tour of the best when you follow the “Castle Trail.” This 300-mile road trip route starts in Stonehaven, on Aberdeen’s coast, where you’ll visit the famous Dunnottar Castle before heading inland to explore stately homes.

You’ll continue across Aberdeenshire, visiting three or four castles per day and enjoying the scenery as you explore both coastline and countryside. You can end the tour in Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s most underrated cities, where you can visit museums, galleries, and distilleries before heading off on your next adventure. 

8. Follow in the footsteps of royalty at Stirling Castle

If you only have time to visit one castle when you’re in Scotland, then make it Stirling Castle . This is one of the country’s most important strongholds, and you’ll be awed by the sight of tall towers and medieval walls standing tall on top of the craggy hilltop. 

Stirling Castle is located next to a vital crossing of the River Forth, and it’s thought to date back to at least the 12th century, if not earlier. The castle remained strategically important for many centuries, and the vast majority of defensive structures that remain today were added in the 15th and 16th centuries.

This was the scene of bloody battles and sieges between the Scots and the English throughout history. So it makes sense that the castle came to symbolize the idea of Scottish independence. Many of Scotland’s kings and queens were even crowned here, including Mary, Queen of Scots. 

9. Delve into the depths of Glasgow’s many, many museums

Glasgow is often overshadowed by its neighbor, the Scottish capital Edinburgh. But you should know that there’s just as much history and culture to be found in Glasgow as there is in Edinburgh! 

Glasgow is a literal treasure trove of museums, and whether it’s history, art, or science that excites you, you’ll find it here in the city. We recommend that you start at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , a grand Victorian-era museum that’s home to dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, World War II fighter planes, and archaeological finds gathered from across the world. 

Next, visit the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens , a unique museum and botanic garden that tells the story of the people of Glasgow. The Riverside Museum is home to tall ships and transport exhibitions, while Glasgow Science Centre needs little introduction. 

Once you’ve exhausted all of the top museums, you can move on to the more niche favorites, including the Hunterian Museum , the Hunterian Art Gallery , the Scottish Football Museum , and even the Glasgow Police Museum . If you love museums, then it’s safe to say you’ve landed in the right city!

10. Adventure around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

If you’re staying in Glasgow, then you don’t need to travel far to escape the city and lose yourself in Scotland’s beautiful and vibrant natural scenery. Just north of the suburbs, you can find Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park , which is less than an hour’s drive from Glasgow city center. 

This is where the Scottish Highlands begin, and you’ll find a large freshwater loch (Loch Lomond) that forms the basis for the national park. Loch Lomond is one of the largest bodies of fresh water in the UK, and you’ll have ample opportunity to explore the loch and get out and enjoy some watersports. 

If you’re up for some hill walking or mountaineering, you’ve come to the right place because you can find many of Scotland’s tallest Munros in the national park. One of the most popular mountains to climb is Ben Lomond, which sits at an altitude of 974 meters. It’s a great warmup if you’re planning to tackle Ben Nevis later on in your trip to Scotland. 

11. Hike the West Highland Way

If you’re looking to travel slowly, and experience the great outdoors, one of the best Scotland activities is hiking the West Highland Way. There are many long-distance hiking routes in Scotland, but this is the classic walking trail. It’s the oldest long-distance route in Scotland, and we know that hikers are going to love it!

The West Highland Way is 96 miles long, and it starts just north of Glasgow and ends in Fort William. The official starting point is Milngavie, which is a Glaswegian suburb, but you’ll soon find yourself immersed in nature just a few miles into the trail. 

From Milngavie, the West Highland Way takes you north, running parallel to Scotland’s West Coast as you head toward Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. You’ll walk through beautiful glens and valleys, alongside locks and rivers, and through quaint highland towns and villages as you edge ever closer to the endpoint at Fort William. 

When you reach Fort William, you can try to summit Ben Nevis. But only if you’ve still got any energy left in you after a multi-day hike through the mountains! 

The West Highland Way is well marked along its entire length, but it’s always a good idea to have a map just in case you want to take a detour. There are lots of campsites and bed and breakfasts along the way, and in Scotland, it’s also legal to wild camp when you’re out on the trail. 

12. Explore Glencoe’s beauty and history

The Scottish Highlands is a place of both heartbreak and beauty, and you can learn all about the region’s tumultuous history and explore its natural beauty with a visit to Glencoe.

You’ll find the village of Glencoe sitting on the banks of Loch Leven and the River Coe, and it’s a charming base for a Highland excursion. The village itself has several hotels and bed and breakfasts catering to tourists, as well as a folk museum and plenty of opportunities for kayaking or canoeing on the loch. 

The real reason to visit the village, though, isn’t for the loch, but for the glen. A glen is a type of narrow valley, and the village of Glencoe sits at the end of this valley. Glencoe was made for hiking, and you can spend days walking along the valley, hiking the loch-side trails, and delving deeper into the Highlands. 

But there’s a darker side to Glencoe, which you’ll unearth if you hike along the valley to the Glencoe Visitors Centre . Here you’ll learn how Glencoe was the site of an infamous massacre. In 1692, government troops massacred the local highland clans on this very spot after a failed uprising. 

This marked the beginning of the end for the Highland clan system, and the massacre was followed by mass clearances that changed the demographic makeup of the region forever. It was a turning point in Scottish history, and you can find out more about the historical and political consequences of the event during your stay in Glencoe. 

13. Search Loch Ness for its fabled monster

We’ve all heard the legendary rumors of the Loch Ness Monster. This fabled beast is said to inhabit the cold waters of Loch Ness, and tales of its exploits have abounded for centuries. While the rumors are just that (rumors!), don’t let that distract you from embracing this mythical, beautiful, and scenic Scottish destination.

The myth itself is entrenched in the wild nature of Loch Ness. This is one of Scotland’s largest lochs, and it’s located in the far north of the Highlands, just below Inverness. Loch Ness is the second-deepest freshwater loch in Scotland, and the waters are notoriously dark with extremely poor visibility – a condition that only adds fuel to the monster fire. 

Visit Loch Ness, and you can join a monster searching tour of the loch if you so desire, where tourists are even encouraged to throw in bait to attract the monster to the surface. If that’s not your thing, then don’t worry because you can also enjoy a more peaceful cruise of the loch without having to keep your eyes out for Nessie.

There are several villages spaced around the loch, which is around 22 miles long. You can visit Urquhart Castle , a 13th-century fortress that crumbles dramatically next to the loch, or you can learn more about the area by popping into the Loch Ness Visitors Centre in the village of Drumnadrochit. 

Loch Ness is the perfect place to escape to the outdoors, and you’ll find an impressive array of hiking trails, biking trails, and outdoor opportunities such as kayaking, sailing, and boating to enjoy during your stay. 

14. Explore the ruins of the Antonine Wall

Have you heard of Hadrian’s Wall? Well, the famous Roman wall, built by Emperor Hadrian to mark the border between the Roman Empire and the rest of Britain, is many miles to the south of Scotland, in England.

But have you heard of the Antonine Wall? This is the lesser-known Roman fortification that is found in Scotland, running from east to west across the Scottish Highlands, just north of both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Antonine Wall was built around 142 AD by another Roman emperor, and it marked the most northerly expansion of the Roman Empire (yes, much further north than Hadrian’s Wall!).

Much of the Antonine Wall was built of wood, though, not stone like Hadrian’s Wall, so very little survived. Modern archaeological excavation has provided us with an insight into the Roman world as it was in Scotland, and you can explore many of the excavated remains on a journey along the Antonine Wall. 

Visit Glasgow, and you can start by delving into the artifacts that are held at the Hunterian Museum . The wall begins on the River Clyde, by Old Kilpatrick, then runs east until it hits the River Forth close to Edinburgh. There are impressive remains of an old bathhouse to see at Bearsden. Plus, the remains of the largest fort are found at Castlecary, while the ditches and ramparts at Rough Castle are said to be the best spot along the whole Antonine Wall. 

15. Explore Dundee’s maritime history

You’ll find Dundee on the banks of the River Tay, just where the river meets the North Sea. While Dundee hasn’t always been a popular place to visit, the city has had a recent facelift and now boasts a beautifully regenerated waterfront alongside some exciting museums.

We recommend arriving by train, so you can cross the magnificent Tay Bridge on your way over the river and into Dundee. You’ll love the city’s quirky architecture, which mixes modern design with Dundee’s traditional, industrial heritage. Dundee is also home to a branch of the V&A ( Victoria & Albert Museum ), which showcases more of the city’s contribution to both industry and design. 

The highlight of any trip to Dundee, though, is a visit to the RRS Discovery . The ship was built in Dundee before making its famous voyage to Antarctica in 1923. It’s now returned home and is berthed along the waterfront. You can learn all about the ship, its crew, and the discoveries they made at the museum. 

16. Go skiing in Scotland

If you’re visiting in the winter, skiing is one of the coolest things to do in Scotland. We’ll be the first to admit, though, that Scotland might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of winter sports. That’s just fine because while everyone else heads off to the Alps or the Pyrenees, you can make the most of the Scottish ski slopes in all their wintery glory! 

Scotland’s ski season is short but sweet, and you have several key destinations to choose from. One of the best is Cairngorm Mountain . This is one of the highest mountains in Scotland, and it rises to just over 1,000 meters in height. 

The ski area is within Cairngorms National Park, making this an exceptionally beautiful place to ski. Plus, you’ll love how there’s a mixture of downhill runs and cross-country routes for you to tackle.

Another Scottish favorite is the Glencoe Mountain Resort , which is supremely located in the Glencoe area, right in the shadow of Ben Nevis. This is where you’ll find Scotland’s tallest mountains and Munros, and in winter, they make for some excellent skiing! 

17. Sip Scotch in Scotland

Scotland’s most famous export is its whisky, and rest assured, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample a wee dram or two of the hard stuff during your travels!

If you’re in Edinburgh, then you should always start with a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience , where you’ll not only be taken on a journey through the production process and history of whisky, but you’ll have the chance to see the world’s largest collection of whisky in all its glory (followed by many tastings, of course!).

Across Scotland, there are many whisky distilleries offering tours and tastings. Plus, with six distinct whisky-producing regions, alongside over 100 individual producers, you’re going to be hardpressed to visit them all!

A few of the best whisky distilleries in Scotland include Glengoyne , which is just outside of Glasgow, Highland Park Distillery , which is all the way up in the Orkney Islands, and the world-famous Glenlivet , which is found in Cairngorms National Park. 

If that’s not enough whisky for one trip, then we recommend heading over to the Hebridean island of Islay, where you’ll find the highest concentration of distillers, including the likes of Laphroaig , Bowmore , and Lagavulin . 

18. Uncover folklore on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most unique places to visit in Scotland, and you’ll soon fall in love with the island’s breathtaking natural beauty and fairytale-esque folklore. 

This is Scotland’s second-largest island, and it’s connected to the island of Eilean Bàn by the dramatic Skye Bridge. Eilean Bàn is then connected to the mainland by another bridge, ensuring that any journey to Skye is going to be an epic one!

There’s a lot to do on the Isle of Skye, but most of the activities revolve around the island’s great outdoors. First, hike the trail to Fairy Pools, where you can wild swim in a natural pool that’s steeped in local legend and lore. 

The hike to the Old Man of Storr, a dramatic, rocky outcrop, is just as enthralling, while the tough Quiraing Loop will take your breath away both physically and imaginatively. There are stone circles, medieval castles, and whisky distilleries to uncover on land, there’s dramatic coastal scenery to explore by boat, and there’s wildlife to be encountered around every turn on the Isle of Skye! 

19. Marvel at the white sand beaches on the Isle of Lewis and Harris

Scotland isn’t the first country that comes to mind when you think of white sand beaches, but visit the Isle of Lewis and Harris, and your perception of Scotland as a beach holiday destination will change forever. 

The Isle of Lewis and Harris is located in the Outer Hebrides, off the west coast of mainland Scotland. The island is home to a few small communities, plenty of ruins and nature, and arguably the best beaches in Scotland. 

The most well-known beach on the island is Luskentyre, which in the summer, with its turquoise water and bright white sand, would look more at home in Australia than it does in Scotland. Other beautiful beaches include Borve, Horgabost, and Seilebost, all of which offer white sands and beautiful natural surroundings.

20. Go birdwatching in St Kilda

Many destinations in Scotland can be considered “remote,” but few places can match St Kilda for its distance and lack of population. St Kilda is a small archipelago that’s located in the north sea, and no one has lived here since the last community left in the 1930s. 

For nature lovers, St Kilda’s isolation and lack of people is perfect because it has become a birdwatching paradise. St Kilda is the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s home to at least 1 million seabirds, including an enormous population of puffins. 

The St Kilda archipelago contains the most outermost of the islands in the Outer Hebrides, and this is one of the most distant places in the United Kingdom. It’s managed by the National Trust for Scotland, and in the summer, you can visit on a boat tour from the Isle of Lewis Harris or from the Isle of Skye. 

It’s a 2.5-hour journey to St Kilda from the Isle of Lewis and Harris, and when you arrive, you’ll be greeted by dramatic, rugged, and rocky scenery. You can hike across the main island of St Kilda, cruise around the smaller islands and islets, and visit the abandoned remains of the last human settlements. And, of course, you’ll see thousands and thousands of birds!

21. Unearth Scotland’s Norse history in the Orkney Islands

You’ll find the Orkney Islands sitting just off the most northerly tip of Scotland. This might be one of the most distant places in the United Kingdom, but the Orkney Islands are also one of the most historic. 

On these rugged and windswept isles on the northern edge of Britain, you can unearth an ancient history stretching back 5,000 years. The Orkney Islands are home to one of the densest concentrations of archaeological sites in Europe, including Skara Brae, a Neolithic settlement that is thought to date back to at least 3000 BC. 

There are Neolithic tombs to visit, ancient stone circles dot the landscapes, and Viking ruins from a more modern era are begging to be explored. But the Orkney Islands aren’t just for history buffs because the archipelago is also home to an impressive array of birdlife and marine life, making this a fantastic place for nature lovers, too!

22. Go wildlife spotting in the Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands are the most northerly point in the United Kingdom, and you’ll need to take a ferry or a flight from the mainland to reach this remote archipelago. The Shetland Islands are just about as rugged and windswept as it gets in Scotland, but you might just find yourself falling in love with the unique culture, scenery, and wildlife that’s found here. 

The Shetland Islands have a distinct Norse history that’s very different from the rest of Scotland. There’s still a local dialect descended from Old Norse, there are Viking-inspired festivals throughout the year, and there are Norse archaeological sites all over the islands. 

The distance of the Shetlands from the mainland has cultivated this unique culture, and distance has also allowed the islands to become a haven for wildlife. The Shetland Islands teem with birdlife, while across the landscapes, you’ll spot Shetland ponies, Shetland sheep, and Shetland sheepdogs. 

There are dolphins, seals, otters, and porpoises to be spotted along the coast, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a few puffins!

23. Sample all the local Scottish delicacies

Scotland is a unique destination for foodies, and you’ll come to love (or hate) some of the country’s quirkier delicacies during your trip. 

There are several Scottish classics you have to try during your vacation, including the infamous haggis and neeps. Haggis is prepared from all the “worst” parts of a sheep, including the stomach, and it’s served up with a side of turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties). 

Then you’ve got your deep-fried Mars bars and your Irn-Bru (a Scottish carbonated soft drink), as well as the fish and chips and kebabs. But there’s also much more to Scottish cuisine than deep-fried fast food and haggis. Delve a little deeper, and you’ll find that there’s a vibrant, multicultural dining scene in the cities and in the Highlands.

In Glasgow, try the city’s best tikka masala dishes at the Indian restaurants. In Edinburgh, you can find Michelin-starred restaurants serving up fusion food, while at Highland hotels, sustainably sourced Scottish salmon, local game, and homegrown vegetables are always on the menu.  

24. Spend the night in a Scottish castle

One of the best things to do in Scotland is to spend the night in an authentic Scottish castle . Scotland’s tumultuous history ensures that the landscapes are dotted with historic castles, many of them dating back to the medieval era. 

Many of them have also been repurposed into beautiful boutique hotels. These incredible properties are guaranteed to capture the imagination through their character and history.

There are castle hotels to be found in the remote Western Isles, including Glengorm Castle on the Isle of Mull. There are wonderful castles, like Inverlochy Castle or Glengarry Castle , which overlook the waters of Scotland’s lochs, and there are many more castles dotted through the Highlands.

Uncover tales of warring kings and queens, and enjoy a luxurious stay and excellent dining in Scotland’s best castle hotels !

Check Prices on Booking.com

25. Celebrate Hogmanay in Scotland

Hogmanay is Scotland’s New Year celebration (Hogmanay means New Year in the Scots language), and it’s one of the best times to be in the country. The celebration typically takes place on December 31. However, the more raucous Scots often extend this well into the New Year, with celebrations sometimes continuing until January 2, if not beyond!

Be prepared not just for beer and whisky drinking and renditions of Auld Lang Syne to welcome in the New Year, but for a cultural feast of Scottish history and heritage, too. Hogmanay celebrations are varied across the country, with each region having its own distinct customs, but many of those customs are drawn from old Gaelic and Norse traditions that have been passed down through the generations.

Across Scotland, the tradition of “first-footing,” or being the first person to enter a friend or family member’s household in the New Year, is one of the most popular events. In Stonehaven, large fireballs are swung in a procession through the streets, while in certain places, replica Viking longships are burned in a huge pyre. 

In Glasgow and Edinburgh, the celebrations have become multicultural, without losing sight of their traditions, while you’ll also find that in the cities, there are late-night parties and events taking place in pubs and venues that carry on well into the New Year!

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Scotland. What’s your favorite thing to do in Scotland?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever seen the Harry Potter movies? If the answer is “yes,” you’ll have seen the Hogwarts Express as it steams its way through dramatic mountain scenery. That’s not CGI because it was the historic Jacobite Steam Train that stood in for the Hogwarts Express in many of the external shots. The Jacobite runs on the West Highland Line, a 42-mile railway track that connects Fort William to Mallaig. The journey takes around 2 hours to complete.

If you’re exploring Edinburgh, then the hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat is one of the most unique things to do in Scotland. Arthur’s Seat is the best viewpoint in the city, but it’s more than this because Arthur’s Seat is also an ancient, extinct volcano. This unusual natural feature is a symbol of the Scottish capital. It rises high above the Parliament building and Holyrood Palace, standing guard over Scotland’s institutions and people.

If you only have time to visit one castle when you’re in Scotland, then make it Stirling Castle. This is one of the country’s most important strongholds, and you’ll be awed by the sight of tall towers and medieval walls standing tall on top of the craggy hilltop. Stirling Castle is located next to a vital crossing of the River Forth, and it’s thought to date back to at least the 12th century, if not earlier.

The Isle of Skye is one of the most unique places to visit in Scotland, and you’ll soon fall in love with the island’s breathtaking natural beauty and fairytale-esque folklore. This is Scotland’s second-largest island, and it’s connected to the island of Eilean Bàn by the dramatic Skye Bridge. Eilean Bàn is then connected to the mainland by another bridge, ensuring that any journey to Skye is going to be an epic one!

Scotland is a unique destination for foodies, and you’ll come to love (or hate) some of the country’s quirkier delicacies during your trip. There are several Scottish classics you have to try during your vacation, including the infamous haggis and neeps. Haggis is prepared from all the “worst” parts of a sheep, including the stomach, and it’s served up with a side of turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties). Then you’ve got your deep-fried Mars bars and your Irn-Bru (a Scottish carbonated soft drink), as well as the fish and chips and kebabs.

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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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.

More on Scotland

One Week in Scotland

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

 Daryl Benson/Getty Images

Visit some of these 15 top destinations in Scotland and you will quickly understand how exciting and different this country is from the other nations in the United Kingdom. Its landscapes are wilder, its mountains more dramatic, its islands more mystical and each of its cities unique. This quick guide should give you a flavor of what to expect.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, in the country's southeast near the Firth of Forth is a buzzy university city, and a cultural feast with one of the world's greatest open access performing arts festivals - The Edinburgh Fringe. Spread around an extinct volcanic plug, its character is diverse. A medieval old town perches across the Princes Street gardens from the 18th century, Georgian new town. The famous Royal Mile climbs from a historic palace past the architectural marvel of the Scottish Parliament to the spectacular castle fortress that is Edinburgh Castle . Museums are world class, the seafood is amazing and from every angle it is truly lovely.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Scotland's most populous city, this port on the Firth of Clyde was once a shipbuilding powerhouse. These days its Clydeside waterfront is the newest cultural district, with the distinctive Riverside Museum of Transport , the new Glasgow Science Center - like a giant silver beetle - and the SSE Hydro, a sports and concert venue, joining the nearby Kelvingrove Museum as architectural landmarks. Glasgow is a youthful, forward looking place with a contemporary art scene spurred on by its famous art school, alternative music and theatre. And Billy Connolly's hometown continues to produce a steady stream of edgy comedy talent. 

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Ferne Arfin

Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater body in the UK, straddles the the Highland Fault Line that separates the Highlands from the Lowlands.The National Park that surrounds it is equally divided between soft, rolling heather covered hills and higher peaks that are shrouded in deep evergreen forests below before breaking through the treeline and into the clouds. This is romantic Rob Roy country and you can visit the atmospheric churchyard in Balquhidder where the Robin Hood of the Highlands and his family are buried. It's a terrific area for family camping , boating and fishing, gentle cycling or hiking on well groomed trails around the loch and mountain biking a bit higher up. And it's all less than an hour from Glasgow so very easy to reach.

St Andrews - The Home of Golf

If you love a good game of golf and you enjoy having golfers' bragging rights in the clubhouse, visiting St. Andrews, the birthplace of the game , should be high on your bucket list. It's easy to reach by road, about 13.5 miles southeast of Dundee on the North Sea coast.

There are seven golf courses in St Andrews but St Andrews Old Course is the one golfers with a taste for history aim for. Golf was first played on this course 600 years ago. Despite its pedigree, the course is on public land and anyone with an appropriate handicap (24 for men, 36 for women) can apply to pay the moderate greens fee and book the course . There's also a ballot for last minute bookings and a generous policy of trying to accommodate single golfers on the day of play.

Dundee - UNESCO City of Design

 Iain Masterton/Getty Images

If you expect to find Dundee Marmalade in Dundee you're about 100 years too late. Today, this small city on the River Tay estuary near the east coast of Scotland, is the UK's only UNESCO City of Design, renowned for its creativity and contribution to sustainable development through design. As a visitor, you can enjoy this at the stunning new V&A Museum - the first branch of the museum outside of London and Scotland's first and only design museum. While there, visit the RRS Discovery , the research ship that took Scott of the Antarctic and fellow explorer Ernest Shackleton on their first successful expedition, and the HMS Frigate Unicorn, is the oldest British-built warship still afloat and one of the six oldest ships in the world.

The Scottish Borders

The area known as the Scottish Borders, between Lothian and Edinburgh to the north and the English border at Northumberland to the south, is packed with things to do. From mountain biking and hiking adventures for softies to salmon fishing in the Tweed and connections to the most important historic, literary and royal figures of Alba. Some say that Robert the Bruce's heart is buried in a lead casket at Melrose Abbey. Mary Queen of Scots took refuge at Traquair House , the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. And Sir Walter Scott's home, Abbotsford House , is the Medieval fantasy of the creator of Ivanhoe . Stop to admire Scott's View, his favorite vista, near Dryburgh Abbey where the famous author is buried.

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms is one of the UK's wildest and emptiest regions. It has hundreds of footpaths, cycle trails and mountain biking trails to explore, 50 of Scotland's Munros (mountains of more than 3,000 feet), and fabulous opportunities for wildlife spotting. The 90-mile Snow Road Scenic Route is the highest public road in the UK, a hair-raising drive lined with incredible views, atmospheric villages and local attractions. Winter sports enthusiasts head for the Cairngorms in Scotland's central highlands for skiing and snowboarding. The year round resort of Aviemore is a good base for snow sports, watersports on several lochs and access to deep romantic forests. And the Queen loves the Cairngorms. Her Scottish estate, Balmoral , is right in the middle of the park.

The Great Glen

Massimiliano Broggi/Getty Images

The Great Glen is a natural geological fault that crosses Scotland diagonally from Fort William at the top of the sea loch, Loch Linnhe, to Inverness on the Moray Firth. It separates the Grampian Mountains from the North West Highlands. Several lochs lie along it. The most famous is Loch Ness, but the Great Glen also includes the smaller Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. In the early 19th century, the Caledonian Canal was created to connect the lochs and provide water route across the country from the North Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea. It was quickly too small to be of any commercial use. But it has become a natural playground - a place for boating, cycling and hiking the canal paths, visiting the castles and historic sites along the route, camping and wildlife watching. The 117-mile Great Glen Way is a popular, village to village walking route through the Glen.

Visitors have voted Glencoe Scotland's most romantic glen. And that's only partly because of its tragic history of betrayal and murder . Today, the 12-mile long glen, lined with eight high Scottish mountains, is a beautiful setting for extraordinary mountain walks - from gentle wildflower meadow walks along the base of the glen to exciting winter hikes and climbs with mountaineering guides. One of Scotland's most ancient landscapes - the remnant of a volcanic caldera formed 450 million years ago - it is photographers' heaven with the sky and mountains forming dramatic images at every turn. If you are not into mountaineering, you can still enjoy a superb view from the Three Sisters Car Park on the A82 . And if you like to dip into local history, visit the family friendly Glencoe and North Lorn Folk Museum set out in two original 18th century thatched crofters cottages.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle was already a formidable fortress when William Wallace defeated the English at Stirling Bridge. The castle, the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, stands on a volcanic rock on the border between the Highlands and the Lowlands and seems almost indestructible. After Robert the Bruce's victory at nearby Bannockburn, he had the walls destroyed to prevent it falling into English hands. But they were rebuilt more than once on the castle's strong foundations. It was at the center of Scotland's wars of independence in the 13th and early 14th century and still becomes a rallying symbol whenever talk of Scottish independence is in the air. Find out more about what makes Stirling Castle one of Scotland's top 10 Castles

Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan - the Hollow Mountain

At certain times of day the waters of beautiful Loch Awe in Argyll seem mirror still. At other times they are choppy enough to capsize the unwary in small boats. That's because the loch is part of an amazing hydroelectric generating plant one kilometer deep in the adjacent Munro, Ben Cruachan. At time of low demand, water is pumped up to a reservoir at the top of the mountain. Later, is pours down through turbines within the mountain, generating electricity. Don slickers and wellies and join a minibus tour that takes visitors deep into the mountain to see the cavernous turbine hall and exhibitions. Adventurous walkers can also hike up the mountain to see the massive dam and reservoir that are the other end of the hydroelectric circuit.

The Isle of Skye

Some of Scotland's most rugged, dramatic landscapes and natural wonders - like the Old Man of Storr, and the Fairy Pools pictured here - are on the Isle of Skye, the biggest of the Inner Hebrides. Its wildlife spotting opportunities include colonies of sea otters, seals and birds of prey. Visit its tiny, colorful villages, like Portree, the island capital, and see the oldest continually occupied castle in Scotland, Dunvegan , ancestral home of the clan Macleod. Get there by ferry from Mallaig near Fort William or by bridge from the Kyle of Lochalsh on the west coast. The drive along the A87 to the Skye Bridge , especially along the shores of Loch Cluanie and past Eilean Donan Castle , (pictured at the top of this story) deserves the description of awesome. Find out what makes iconic Eilean Donan one of Scotland's top castles.

The Shetlands

Michael Nolan/robert harding/Getty Images

Shetland is an archipelago of islands about 50 miles northeast of Orkney and about 105 miles from the Scottish mainland. There are at least 100 islands in the group but only 16 of them are inhabited. The islands lie at the mid-point between the North Sea and the Norwegian Sea. Get there by ferry or plane .

These are the ancient, subarctic landscapes where Scandinavia meets Britain. The largest settlement and capital of the islands is Lerwick. It's home to one of the UK's most colorful fire festivals - Up Helly Aa - a midwinter Viking themed event that ends with the launch of a burning Viking ship into the sea. You've no doubt heard of Fair Isle sweaters - named for one of the islands - and Shetland ponies. Yes, Shetland has both of those. But it also has some of the wildest, most dramatic landscapes marked by bizarre rock formations, crystal clear pools and spring fed waterfalls. It's a great place for wildlife watching - otters, seals, huge puffin colonies and all kinds of sea birds, walking, cycling, fishing and photography. And, if you are lucky, you may get to see the Northern Lights.

 Argalis/Getty Images

Orkney is an archipelago off the northeast coast of Scotland. The main island, alternatively called Orkney or Mainland, is about 45 miles from the ferry port on the Scottish mainland at Scrabster.

The islands are washed by the Gulf stream so milder in winter than you might expect for a place so far north. They are popular for hiking, shipwreck diving in Scapa Flow and wildlife watching.

But the main attraction for most visitors in the UNESCO World Heritage site, The Heart of Neolithic Orkney . It's a remarkable collection of monuments - standing stones, stone circles and chambered tombs and even a village, Skara Brae, uncovered from beneath the sand during a 19th century storm. The ruins on Orkney are more than 5,000 years old - older than the Pyramids - and their level of sophistication is shedding new light on how the British Isles were populated and civilized.

David Lefranc/Getty Images 

Islay (pronounced AYE-la) Is the home of one Scotland's distinctive whisky types - peaty, smoky flavored single malts. There are eight working distilleries currently on the 25-mile-long island, each with their own secret springs and peat supplies. The oldest, Bowmore, founded in 1779, is open to visitors. Others on the island that you can visit include Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Kilchoman, Bunnahabhain, and Lagavulin.

The distilleries are the main reason for visiting this Hebridean island, a short flight from Glasgow or a slightly longer ferry trip off the West Coast of Scotland. Besides tours, and tastings, visitors are encouraged to approach whisky tastings like wine tasting, learning about all the qualities to look for. Depending upon how deep your pockets are, you might have a chance to dig peat, learn about whisky making or have your own privately labeled bottling. There is nothing quite like watching a sunset from an Islay beach while sipping whisky accompanied by shortbread and chocolate.

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The Best Things to do in Scotland: City-Sights, Mountain Hikes and the Northern Lights

Scotland is a place of mystery and legend, historic battles and rolling highlands. Add these brilliant things to do in Scotland to your bucket list and prepare for an epic trip.

Is there anywhere quite as beautiful as Scotland? I’m not sure.

From charming medieval villages to the (many) mountains that dot the rugged landscape, this country – or, mainly, the Highlands region – is like something straight out of a movie. 

But don’t let this stop you from delving into less rural places like Edinburgh and Glasgow – Scotland has a wealth of culture (need I remind you about the many incredible Scottish writers, musicians, and artists?) to explore.

Read on to discover the lochs, the Harry Potter-inspired places, the must-see cities and panoramic vistas you can’t miss in Scotland. 

Looking for somewhere to stay? Read my review of Knockinaam Lodge and see why you need to head there for the ultimate luxe break.

Top 5 Things to Do in Scotland

Take a trip to glasgow.

Rich in Victorian and art nouveau architecture, Glasgow is a gem of a city. It’s home to many famed institutions, such as the Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera, and the National Theatre of Scotland. 

Visit the medieval Glasgow Cathedral with its ornate windows or the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (which is staggeringly beautiful, just FYI). Oh, and the Pollok Country Park and Glasgow Botanic Gardens could put Versailles to shame with their structured elegance. 

Shopping on Buchanan Street or settling down for a sensational meal at Bread Meats Bread is a must for trendy tourists. While the Riverside Museum is a contemporary standout in this country of antiquities, both inside and out — I mean, it even has an actual Stormtrooper, for Yoda’s sake! 

Spend a Weekend in Edinburgh  

Visiting the country’s capital is one of the top things to do in Scotland. I mean, how can you not? 

Great news – you can squeeze a lot into a short time; take a look at my fabulous 36-hour itinerary in Edinburgh for inspo.

You can see the Scottish Parliament or take a ghost tour (if you’re brave enough to face the ghoulies). 

Expect to walk… a lot! Whether that’s just along the Royal Mile and the rainbow-hued Victoria Street, or if you fancy putting on your hiking boots and climbing Arthur’s Seat for incredible vistas of the city below.

Of course, there are plenty of fun tours available in this pretty city, such as a royalty-themed bus tour or a Harry Potter walking guide .  

Wander Around the Isle of Skye 

Known for its quaint fishing villages, medieval castles, and rugged landscape, is it any wonder that the Isle of Skye is one of my favourite places in Scotland? 

It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge and its main draw is its Fairy Pools with their impossibly-aqua waters, as well as the mighty Storr on the Trotternish Peninsula.

Dunvegan Castle is another obvious choice when it comes to Isle of Skye activities, but don’t let Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint slip off your to-do list. It’s fairytale-gorgeous, with a huge waterfall cascading over the cliffs into the sea far below. 

Oh, and while we’re on the subject of views, the Quiraing landslip also has particularly fantastic vistas. 

Depending on the time of year, if you’re lucky, you can even stick around to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Scotland (more on that later). 

Go Hiking in Arran 

You know me — I love a good hike and will often dive in with the most challenging hike first — the Arran Coastal Way. 

It takes multiple days to finish this 65-mile bad boy that skirts the island’s coast almost the entire loop. You’ll pass charming villages, craggy cliffs, and sandy beaches – it’s pure hiking heaven.

If that sounds a bit intense, here’s another couple of options…

The Fairy Dell trail is a moderate 4.5 miles long and so utterly picturesque you won’t believe it’s real. You start heading towards an uber-photogenic castle where wild deer roam, then follow the eastern shore where you might see some seals.

The Glen Rosa Circuit is an easy trek offering fantastic Goatfell Range views, boggy moors, and open plains. It’s only 5 miles, so it won’t tax you too much. 

Take On Scotland’s Route 66 – The NC500 

The North Coast 500 is an epic stretch over 500 miles long, often called Scotland’s Route 66. It starts and ends in Inverness, giving way to picturesque country bliss with rustic lanes and Highland hills. 

You can stop for some stellar hikes at Big Burn Falls or Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Or spread your toes in the sand at some beaches like Sandwood Bay or Sango Sands. 

Go on a waterfall-hunting escapade at Fairy Glen or the Ugly Hollow, or stop and stroll about some historical sites at Culloden Battlefield or Old Keiss Castle. Don’t forget to visit the towns of Helmsdale and Torridon, at the very least. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Scotland 

Spot nessie at loch ness .

You can’t go to Scotland and not try to spot Nessie popping out of the waters. I mean, you can, but where’s the fun in that? 

And going on a Loch Ness cruise is one of the most fun things to do in Scotland, if you ask me. 

There are also Urquhart Castle ruins to gaze at and a café and gift shop to peruse. Check out Fort Augustus; it’s a tourist fave for its gorgeous architecture and selfie ops. 

Feeling adventurous? Tackle the 80-mile Loch Ness 360º Trail for some insane Scottish beauty, stopping at charming inns and B&Bs as you go.  

Book a Two-Hour Loch Ness Cruise Here

Visit the Castles of the Highlands

There’s nothing more romantic than a castle set against a lush green wonderland, and Scotland boasts plenty. 

From the pale fairytale turrets of Dunrobin Castle , home to Sutherland’s Earls and Dukes for 700 years, to Dunvegan Castle, the residence of the MacLeod Clan Chiefs for 800 years. 

Inverness Castle is also a memory-maker with its red sandstone beside the River Ness. Climb the north tower for gorgeous views over the city. Armadale Castle is also an impressive clan home, with a museum and empty rooms you can stroll through. 

Old Inverlochy Castle is a crumbly ruin now from 1280, but it has survived nonetheless where others have melted back into the landscape. 

Drink Whisky on the Isle of Islay

Islay isn’t called “Whisky Isle ” for nothing. And I just so happen to love a punchy whisky with a peaty taste.

This island has plenty of stellar distilleries choices, from Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and Laphroaig in the south, all whitewashed and straightforward in their no-nonsense approach to a stiff drink. 

They offer tastings and tours, but if you want to enjoy the natural beauty, head for the 7.45-mile stroll along Big Strand. Push further to see the Soldier’s Rock, glorious craggy cliffs, and rolling highlands. 

Potter Around Glencoe

The village of Glencoe is tiny but mighty – boasting little cafes, a small museum, and plenty of quaint accommodation. 

That said, it’s mainly the landscapes and trails in Glencoe, which includes a 15-mile-long valley and rugged peaks, that capture people’s attention. 

Glencoe is technically a National Nature Reserve, and whether you hike, mountain bike, or simply stroll through its famously beautiful valley, you just have to see it for yourself. 

Fun Fact : This was a filming location for many scenes in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – check out the background of Hagrid’s hut!

Ski or Hike in the Cairngorms

Let me loop you in on a secret – Cairngorms National Park has some of the best ski trails in the UK, with a rugged powder-covered landscape throughout most of the year. 

The Glenmore and Braemar areas are more scenic for snow sports, though you can also walk through the snow along the Queen’s Drive trail for stunning winter views before descending into pine forests. 

Combine the short Uath Lochans and Farleitter Crag trails for a breathtaking (and easy) 4-mile scenic experience. Feeling adventurous? Tackle the 18-mile hike up to Ben Macdui, the second-highest mountain in the UK. 

Hiking the 3-mile Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail is a must, though. 

Explore Aviemore

Aviemore is an adorable town set within Cairngorms National Park and close to secluded lochs, mountain trails, and ancient forests. If you want to return to nature, this is the place to do it. 

Hang out at the woodland estate, Rothiemurchus, with its plethora of wildlife, or visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre. 

You can even take a nighttime zipline through a floodlit psychedelic forest or settle down for a picnic at Loch an Eilean for lunch with a stellar view of the island castle. The Aviemore Kart Raceway is also a popular attraction if you can get yourself into gear (wink wink). 

Visit Balmoral

You must know about Balmoral Castle, the beloved summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II in Aberdeenshire . Its grounds cover 50,000 acres of verdant nature with happy colonies of red squirrels that you can even watch on squirrel cams .

Stroll about the spectacular castle grounds, or head inside the castle (it’s open from 1 April 2023). There are plenty of events to attend, like the Wednesday Walks led by the Ranger Service through the gardens and grounds, passing monuments and cairns. 

Visit the Star-Studded Eilean Donan Castle

Three lochs come together at the tidal island of Eilean Donan, but a sturdy bridge leads to its sole property — the Eilean Donan Castle. It’s so utterly picturesque that it’s no wonder it’s featured in James Bond movies as MI6’s Headquarters. 

Put aside an hour to wander through the castle, see the historical artefacts, and explore the gift shop and cafe. Then take your camera and get all the photos of this stunning architectural exploit from the outside. 

Book An Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip Here

Admire the Stunning Scenery Around Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park go hand in hand. But I’m not complaining because… wow . The scenery is incredible, and the park is perfect for long walks. 

The Loch is a popular attraction known for its emerald green vistas and status as the largest inland lake in Britain. Hop on a kayak or canoe or go paddleboarding while you’re there. 

Try the West Highland Way, one of National Geographic’s top 10 trails across the world at 95.7 miles long. Stop by Balmaha Village and divert to Inchcailloch, or continue to Killin and the famous Falls of Dochart. 

Across the way, there’s Luss Village with pretty stone cottages and the Luss Heritage Path. 

Unique Things to See & Do in Scotland: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Spot the hogwarts express at glenfinnan viaduct.

What’s so special about a railway viaduct from 1901 in Inverness-shire? Potterheads will be happy to tell you. 

The Glenfinnan Viaduct nestles between the rolling Highland hills and has featured as one of the famous railways that the Hogwarts Express frequents. But you’ll have to take a 20-minute trek from the nearby car parks to get a good view. 

If this won’t do, though, take a magical tour and hop on the cherry-red Hogwarts Express in Fort William to experience the location differently. Even if you’re not a Harry Potter superfan, it’s still one of the most unique things to do in Scotland. 

Book Your Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour Here

Head to Skara Brae

Skara Brae is a semi-subterranean village on the island of Orkney. It’s estimated to be over 5,000 years old and is Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age village. 

A dune completely covered it until a mighty storm in 1850 revealed what lay beneath – which means that Skara Brae is perfectly preserved by the sand that hid it for so long. 

For some perspective, it’s older than the Great Pyramids and Stonehenge. 

Spend Some Time on the Beaches of the West Coast

Beach bumming isn’t what you’d call a typical Scottish activity, but why not? If the sun is warm and the shimmering waters are calling, who are you to ignore them? 

Camusdarach beach in Silver Sands is as tropical as they come, with white sands and turquoise waters. You can see all the way to the mountains of Skye from its shores, so you can imagine the sunsets are phenomenal. 

Big Sand Beach in Gairloch is the perfect picnic beach, sheltered from the winds by Longa Island. Sandwood Bay is also a treasured strand with giant breakers smashing onto its shores. 

Stroll Through Ballater & Royal Deeside

Ballater is a top spot for visitors thanks to its location and heritage. It sits snugly in the heart of Royal Deeside , so named because Queen Victoria visited in 1848 and enjoyed the area tremendously. Having Balmoral Castle nearby doesn’t hurt, either. 

This picturesque Victorian village is by the eastern gate to Cairngorms National Park, so it’s a favourite with hikers. But its cosy cafes, fantastic shopping opportunities, and quality restaurants will entertain any tourist.

Hiking, climbing, and skiing are popular pastimes in Ballater, as well as a castle safari to spot Crathes, Braemer, and Craigievar Castle. 

(Try to) Spot the Northern Lights

Sorry to break it to you but, although it’s possible, this one’s not a given. However, it would be cruel of me not to suggest you at least try to see the Northern Lights on your Highland adventure.

So – where can you see them? Your best bet is on the Shetland Islands or in the Outer Hebrides. Though, if conditions are just right, you can sometimes spot them from the Isle of Skye, too.

That said, there have been plenty of occasions in recent years where people near Edinburgh and Glasgow have been able to see them – you’ll need to get yourselves out of the city for a chance at that, though.

Read Next: Where to See the Northern Lights in Scotland

Things to Do in Scotland: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit scotland .

You’ll want to put aside at least seven to ten days to get decent sightseeing into your trip. Extend it to 14 days if you’re more of a leisurely tourist or have a bigger itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Scotland?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Scotland. Temperatures are a little warmer in spring, but there’ll still be snow on the mountains. 

Where Should I Stay in Scotland? 

Ac hotel by marriott inverness (mid-range) .

This AC Hotel in Inverness is modern and comfy, with warm woods offset by clean neutrals. There’s a rooftop terrace and restaurant to spend your evenings and panoramic river views from the rooms to delight. 

This is a great place to base a Highlands trip from.

Check Rates and Availability

The Balmoral Hotel (Luxury) 

Luxury at its finest lies behind the opulent doors of The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. Decked out with plush furniture, and a mix of Victorian and modern decor, you’ll feel as though you’re staying in the castle itself. 

Relax in the Turkish steam room or indulge your palate with fine dining at Number One Restaurant. 

Recommended Tours in Scotland

• Loch Ness, Glencoe, & the Highlands Day Trip
• Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip  
• Jacobite Steam Train Tour from Inverness
• Loch Ness 2-Hour Cruise
• Loch Lomond Sightseeing Cruise

Things to Do in Scotland: Map 

Things to do in Scotland: Read Next

• When to See the Northern Lights in Scotland
• An Epic 36 Hours in Edinburgh
• Luxury Escape: Knockinaam Lodge Review
• Discover Royal Deeside – Scotland’s Rugged Riverside Retreat

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

A grand UNESCO Heritage trail, an island of whisky, a pagan fire festival—these are some of the experiences visitors shouldn’t miss.

Scotland’s deep glens and dramatic coastline have long been a fixture of the silver screen. But nothing compares to discovering the place in real life: the endemic wildlife, the family-owned distilleries, the native writers who tell its tales. Here are the top 10 ways to experience this windswept country.

Cross a sandbar to Shetland Island beaches

On the Shetland Islands , a hundred miles north of the Scottish mainland, a 550-yard-long sand causeway connects two postcard-perfect beaches: one on the main southern island, and the other on the tiny St. Ninian’s Isle . On St. Ninian’s, the ruined chapel was the site of a large excavation of Pictish silver (now in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh). The coast wends its way around deep inlets, home to birds including skerries, gannets, and puffins.

Time travel to Scotland’s ancient past

Near the town of Oban in the West Highlands, Kilmartin Glen comprises around 350 archaeological sites that span 5,000 years of history. Many of these date from the Bronze and Neolithic Ages and include stone circles, cairns, and rock art. Learn more on a guided walk from Kilmartin Museum (booking essential). The museum has recently undergone extensive refurbishment and houses ancient ceramics and weapons, many of which were excavated just outside.

See all of Scotland’s UNESCO sites in one trail

Scotland’s UNESCO Trail , launched in 2021, is the world’s first tourist path linking all of a country’s UNESCO-designated sites. As well as the six World Heritage sites—including the Roman Antonine Wall and the far-flung island of St. Kilda —the route includes two global geoparks and two biospheres, and the UNESCO cities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee. The full trail takes around 40 days to complete, but can also be done in part: a suggested six- or eight-day Northern Isles route , for instance, takes in the Shetland Global Geopark and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney .

Journey to “Whisky Island”

Plentiful peat gives Islay’s whiskies their distinct smoky character, says Anthony Wills, founder of Islay’s Kilchoman Distillery . Though only 25 miles long, this Hebridean island has nine working distilleries, making it ideal for whisky tours. “The small-town feel and incredible location, the rugged coastlines and wild landscapes become a key part of the tour experience,” says Wills. He suggests visiting for the Fèis Ìle festival in May, when the island comes alive with folk music and dance.

Visit the world’s first rewilding center

Scotland is leading the world in rewilding efforts , which aim to restore landscapes to their original, uncultivated state. Central to this movement is the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre near Loch Ness. Visitors can take guided walks of the area and tour the tree nursery, which grows 100,000 rare and native specimens annually. There are also self-guided paths up to 2.5 miles long, passing by heather-covered moorland and pine forests both new and ancient.

Party like a pagan

Pagan Scots marked the beginning and the end of summer with fire festivals: Beltane on April 30 and Samhuinn on October 31. In 1988, a group of enthusiasts in Edinburgh formed the Beltane Fire Society and reimagined both festivals for the modern era, with drumming, costumed dancing, and pyrotechnic displays. Shetland’s Up Helly Aa   festival in January—which started as a rowdy New Year celebration in the 19th century—sees torchlight processions through Lerwick, culminating in the burning of a Viking-style longship.

Spot breaching whales from a Hebridean island

The Hebridean Whale Trail , launched in 2019, brings together 30 wildlife-watching spots from Cape Wrath to the Isle of Arran. In most cases, you can see marine creatures from land rather than from a boat, minimizing environmental impact. Bottlenose dolphins, orcas, and humpback whales are among the species that can be spotted all year; basking sharks and minke whales join them in summer. Perhaps the finest site of all is Tiumpan Head Lighthouse   on the Isle of Lewis, known for its population of blunt-nosed Risso’s dolphins. Check Whale Track for news of the latest sightings.

Feast on fine food in Fife

“Fife is lucky to have some of Scotland’s best farmland while also being surrounded on three sides by a bountiful coastline—it’s a chef’s dream,” says Rosie Jack, who runs the Bowhouse   weekend market at the Balcaskie organic farming estate near Anstruther. Tuck into farm-to-table steaks at the Balgove Larder in St. Andrews, or mackerel and lobster at the East Pier Smokehouse , which overlooks St. Monans Harbour. Jack also recommends her local greengrocer Greens of Crail for its cheeses, preserves, and homemade gin.

Take a city tour for social good

Invisible Cities is a social enterprise that trains unhoused people to become tour guides in Edinburgh and Glasgow. “Having a guide is like having a friend who already knows everything about the place and is willing to share its secrets,” says founder Zakia Moulaoui, one of National Geographic’s Travelers of the Year 2024 . The guides’ knowledge extends far beyond the main sights: Edinburgh tour themes range from witchcraft to queer history . The Alternative Glasgow tour runs from the 19th-century People’s Palace museum to George Square, the site of both pro- and anti-independence rallies .

Delve into Edinburgh’s literary history

Edinburgh became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature in 2004; most of its bookish attractions are in the walkable city center. Scale the 200-foot-high Scott Monument , dedicated to Sir Walter Scott; view first drafts by Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson at the Writers’ Museum ;   stroll through the graveyard at Greyfriars Kirk , where J.K. Rowling found inspiration for Harry Potter characters. The three-week Edinburgh International Book Festival takes place every August, part of the world famous Edinburgh festivals .

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

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

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

May 17, 2023 • 8 min read

Edinburgh's famous festival will always be top of the list for Scotland's best things to do © Dan Smith Photography / Shutterstock

Scotland often feels bigger than it is. That’s in part because of its impact on the world – think Edinburgh’s cultural clout and or Speyside’s famous whiskies – but it’s also because of the sheer range of things to do here.

Two fascinating but very different cities dominate Scotland’s central belt, the expansive Highlands feature some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, while islands pack in wildlife and strange echoes of the past. There are fine sights all over the country , but these are some of the top experiences in Scotland.

1. Experience the creativity of the Edinburgh Festival

The world’s largest arts festival transforms Scotland’s capital in August. Everywhere turns into a venue (literally: swimming pools, fudge shops and public toilets have featured in recent years), the streets throb with performers and festival-goers and pubs are packed until the small hours. 

The Fringe , International Festival and Tattoo are the biggest events. If you want to see the biggest shows, booking early is essential, but there’s plenty of diversity beneath the headlines – seek out small venues and strange shows for a unique experience that will make you feel you’ve been in a different city to the crowds.

Local tip: Missed out on tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo? Head to the top of Royal Mile and watch the troops parade down Castlehill, with bagpipes, brass sections, and colorful costumes, after the main performance at 10.30pm each night. 

2. Get swept away by the music in Glasgow

By day, Glasgow ’s grand architecture and resurgent museums are more than worth your time. But you may have the most fun at night, when glorious local scenes come alive and visitors to the city are treated with warm curiosity. Pubs host folk gigs, clubs judder to house and techno and the alt-rock scene bulges with talent. You can check out indie acts at King Tut’s , bounce on a historic ballroom floor at the Barrowland  (named the best venue in the UK in 2023), check out a folk session at the Ben Nevis or get a sweat on at the Sub Club , which has been a temple to electronic music for over 30 years.

3. Find your own highlights on Skye

With its grand peaks, Gaelic culture and windswept beauty, Skye is the main draw in the Highlands. Rather than trying to cram its many highlights into a single itinerary – and risking getting stuck in a tourist traffic jam as you do so – it can be worth getting your perspective on this special island by choosing the part that most suits you and staying for a few days. 

That might mean climbing the knife-edge ridges of the Cuillin Hills, exploring basalt sea stacks on the Trotternish Peninsula , eating roasted hake or devilled pigeon at the Michelin-starred Three Chimneys , or sipping ale at sunset on the little-visited Waternish Peninsula.

Planning tip:  Stagecoach operates the main bus routes on the island, linking all the main villages and towns, but you'll need your walking shoes if you want to go further afield. 

4. Take in the lonely peaks of Assynt

Assynt, in the far northwest of Scotland, feels like a land apart. Here, isolated sandstone peaks rise like great monuments from the boggy moorland, giving the landscape an epic eeriness, and meaning the views from the top can – weather, of course, permitting – stretch for miles. 

There are some excellent scrambling routes for which you’ll need some experience and a head for heights. An Teallach (1063m/3486ft) has a top-of-the-world traverse, Suilven (723m, 2,372ft) is a long, remote, broken-backed ridge, while Stac Pollaidh (612m/2008 ft) reaches up like a ruined crown. It's also the most accessible of the three. The coast here is also great for sea kayaking.

Local tip:  The views from the roads that wind through this wilderness can be almost as good as the ones from the summits.

Read more : How to get around in Scotland

5. Soak up the culture on Dundee’s waterfront 

Dundee ’s docks once exported jute (a fiber used in textiles) around the world, but industrial decline in the 1980s hit the area hard. Regeneration came first in the form of the restored 1901 ship Discovery , which explored the Antarctic under legendary captain Robert Falcon Scott and was built to withstand being frozen into the icepack. 

In 2018 it was joined by V&A Dundee , a state-of-the-art museum whose slatted exterior looks like a spaceship crossed with a sea cliff. In between checking out top-notch visiting exhibitions at the V&A and stepping aboard Discovery, you can explore the city’s textile traditions at the Verdant Works or steer your own course through Dundee’s nautical heritage by going paddleboarding on the Tay.

6. Taste whisky in Speyside

Speyside, in Northeast Scotland , isn’t just about booze: there’s salmon fishing, historic railways and golf courses to experience in these parts. But most visitors are here for the region’s sweet and fragrant whiskies. 

Marvel at the vast modern vats that make the stuff, the pleasingly battered casks (often previously used for sherry) that help give batches their unique flavor, and the streams and rivers that run down from the hills and into the distilleries, bringing a touch of local terroir. 

There are plenty of great things to do here: you can stay overnight in classic lodges and sup your drinks in hushed, book-lined lounges, or stay at homely B&Bs where the morning smells of kippers and black pudding should add zest to any hangover you might somehow have developed.

Local tip: Speyside is home to the highest number of distilleries in Scotland, the most famous of which is Glenfiddich.

7. Learn about Stone Age Orkney

The archipelago of Orkney , an hour’s ferry ride from Scotland’s northeast tip, has farmland, fishing villages and some of Europe’s greatest Stone Age remains. Skara Brae , a 5000-year-old settlement that lay preserved under sand dunes till 1850, brings the day-to-day world of Neolithic people to brilliant life. 

Houses are connected by tunnels and filled with furniture – beds, fireplaces, dressers and cupboards. The stunning nearby tunnel tomb of Maeshowe , meanwhile, reveals this ancient people’s spiritual side. With its standing stones, giant flocks of seabirds and the mighty sea all around, modern Orkney remains a wild, evocative place.

8. Join the island adventures on Mull

Visiting the Hebrides is high recommended . The islands are scattered off the west coast, one foot in Scotland, the other in the Atlantic. Mull is one of the finest of these islands, and once you get past its appealing towns (capital Tobermory’s chocolate-box harbor is something else), you can use it as a base for the wonderfully accessible outdoors. There are mountains, cliffs and achingly beautiful beaches, but a boat trip offers the greatest pleasures. 

Nearby isles include Iona (whose abbey was a vital staging post in Christianity’s advance through Britain), Staffa (home to surreal pillars that inspired Felix Mendelssohn and Pink Floyd) and Lunga (where thousands of impossibly appealing puffins nest in spring and summer). It’s an especially fun thing to do for families – kids will love the excitement of the short boat trips.

Detour: There are dozens of operators around the coast offering whale-watching boat trips lasting from a couple of hours to all day; some have sighting success rates of 95% in summer.

9. Drive the North Coast 500

Scotland’s most famous driving route starts in Inverness , the Highlands’ likeable capital, and makes a great loop around the dramatic west coast and the wild, remote top of Scotland. You’ll pass superb seafood restaurants, distilleries (not all for whisky), villages, farmhouses and pubs. 

But the star here is the scenery: lochs that look like they go on forever, huge sea cliffs, rugged mountains, lonely beaches, machair grassland and hills topped with heather. It gets busy in summer: the best time to go is the shoulder season, and a week will allow you to take decent pit stops, breathe in the sea air and treasure the shifting light and the contours of the land. If this doesn't appeal, Scotland has other amazing road trips to get you exploring.

10. Hike the West Highland Way

The West Highland Way takes you from the Lowlands to the Highlands, from the outskirts of Scotland’s biggest city to the base of Britain’s highest mountain. It passes rivers, lochs, mountains and moorland, traveling on old cattle roads and railway lines – meaning that this is one epic journey on which it's hard to get lost. 

The 96-mile (155km) route takes most hikers around a week, although it’s possible to just take on parts of it. You can make it easier by asking a tour company to drop your baggage at your hotel each night, or harder by camping all the way and rounding it off with the climb up Ben Nevis (4413ft/1345m).

Local tip: Pre-book accommodation or campsites during the European summer as this is a popular through-hike. Some pubs and inns will only serve food to guests who are staying there, so if you are wild camping make sure you carry enough food for meals between major towns.

11. Explore historic Edinburgh

Outside of festival time, Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most spectacular cities with plenty of things to do , and its Old and New towns provide a luminous history lesson. The Old Town is crowned by a mighty castle, from where the cobblestoned Royal Mile descends past tangled medieval wynds (alleys) and cozy pubs to the Scottish Parliament . 

The neighboring New Town is a mere 200 years old, its Neoclassical streets arranged into an elegant pattern of squares, crescents and boulevards. The city’s hilly nature means that wherever you go, a new view can surprise you. The National Museum is the best of many, but you can get a vivid sense of Edinburgh’s rich history just by strolling its streets.

This article was first published Oct 5, 2021 and updated May 17, 2023.

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25 Spectacular Places to Visit in Scotland: “Best sights for tourists” by Scotsman readers

Scotland subjugates a lot of travellers’ bucket lists and if that includes you then these are the breathtaking Scottish locations you have to check out as recommended by our Scotsman readers.

For the most popular Scottish tourist attractions you can easily find suggestions like Edinburgh or the Scottish Highlands with a quick online search, but of course there is much more on offer in this bonnie wee country of ours.

Majestic castles , UNESCO heritage sites , and tropical-style beaches are only some of the sights that make Scotland such an unforgettable place to visit. This list includes attractions that are free to visit , some famous and others considered to be ‘hidden gems’.

So, here are twenty-five of the most spectacular places to visit in Scotland according to our Scotsman readers.

We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

8 Places You Must-Visit in 2024

If you’ve ever wondered what the best places are to visit in Scotland each season, you’re in the right place. These Scottish gems have huge amounts to offer and several of them have exciting things to shout about across the year in 2024.

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, Caithness

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Tobermory on the Isle of Mull

Weather: June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15-17°C (or 59-63 °F).

Tiree Wave Classic Windsurfing Competition, The Isle Of Tiree

Argyll & The Isles

Location: West coast of central Scotland with islands lying off the coast.

As summer and the warmer weather arrives it’s the perfect time to explore Scotland’s magical islands. Head to the west coast where Argyll & The Isles awaits with an enticing range of things to see and do, family-friendly activities, attractions, watersports and more.

Explore from the Isle of Tiree  renowned for its surfing and the Isle of Jura known for its mountains and wild deer, to a wealth of whisky and distilleries on Islay  and the Isle of Mull with the famous town of Tobermory lined with colourful houses and shops.

Start your journey on the mainland where you’ll be greeted by friendly locals, Scottish culture, the sunny outdoors and delectable seafood to sink your teeth into. Perch yourself on a bench or grassy spot overlooking the sea to enjoy your seafood of choice whilst you soak in the sun.

Oban is an ideal harbour to base yourself if you’re looking to explore the local islands. The summer months see a range of wildlife and boat tours leaving from the port, so you’ve got plenty on your doorstep. Hop on a ferry to the surrounding islands of Lismore, Kerrera and Mull for an exciting day trip, or to extend your trip further with a stay on some of the islands.

Explore Argyll & The Isles

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Got time for two destinations?

Aberdeenshire

Location: North coast of eastern Scotland.

If you’re a fan of castles a sunny day is the perfect time to see them in all their glory, and if it rains it creates a dramatic atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere. Home to more than 260 castles, stately homes and ruins Aberdeenshire really is a playground for exploring the history of the region, and of Scotland as a whole. Scotland’s Castle Trail takes you around 19 of the most famous castles in Aberdeenshire, from the coastal Dunnottar Castle and the fairytale Crathes Castle , to the grand Castle Fraser and the picturesque Tolquhon Castle .

Elsewhere, head off on an adventure to see what else the region has in store. From walking trails and driving routes with magnificent scenic views, to heritage trails, Munro bagging and wildlife spotting, you’ve got plenty of choice to keep the whole family entertained.

Visit Aberdeenshire

The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry

Weather: In the autumn, Scotland is likely to experience temperatures ranging from around 8-15°C (46-59°F) from September to November.

River Garry

Location: Southern areas of the Highlands.

Autumn is arguably one of the most beautiful times of the year in Scotland thanks to our abundance of lush forests, woodlands and mountains. There are plenty of places to see the stunning colours of the leaves change throughout the season, but Perthshire is often picked as a special spot.

Also known as ‘Big Tree Country’, it is home to countless forests where you can soak up the autumnal atmosphere on a woodland wander. A great way to experience Perthshire is at night. Book tickets for the Enchanted Forest which takes places throughout October in Pitlochry with illuminated trails, light displays and installations.

If that’s not enough, autumn is the perfect time to pick your own pumpkins. Whether you’re a budding chef and love to cook up a storm with seasonal produce, a young artist that loves pumpkin carving, or if you’re looking for an extra addition your autumnal décor, head to a local farm to pick your own pumpkins. Broadslap Fruit Farm and South Ardbennie Farm & Pumpkin Patch offer a great family day out.

Why not take that farm experience a step further with a farm stay? Get back to nature and make friends with all the local farm animals with cosy self-catering cottages, rustic accommodation and more. Guardswell Farm offers an eco-friendly getaway with a chance to properly switch off, Blairmore Farm is a working farm with a range of cottages to choose from, and Springfield Farm Bothies gives you that rural escape with a touch of luxury. Explore more farm stays in Perthshire .

Visit Perthshire

Professional mountain biker Ruaridh Cunningham at 7stanes, Innerleithen

Scottish Borders

Location: South east of central Scotland.

The Scottish Borders also boasts family-friendly farm experiences. Head to Jacksons at Jedburgh where you can meet the hairy Highland cows, help to feed the newborn lambs, enjoy self-guided walks, and the wee ones can let off energy in the play areas too. Elsewhere, Hillhouse Farm Escapes in Lauder is a quaint and peaceful location offering welcoming self-catering cottages to cosy into surrounded by rolling hills, walking trails and cycle paths.

Why not get outdoors on two wheels this autumn? This corner of Scotland is a haven for cyclists, with miles of cycle trails and paths that loop their way around the vast countryside. Explore the hidden spots of the area, as well as soaking up the stunning views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

If you prefer something at a faster pace, there are plenty of mountain biking opportunities here too. Head to one of three 7Stanes Mountain Biking Centres in the Scottish Borders - Newcastleton, Innerleithen and Glentress - where you can test your skills on the range of routes, or if you’re a newbie there’s plenty of beginner trails too.

Explore the Scottish Borders

Skiing on Cairngorm Mountain

© VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Weather: December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 5°C (41°F).

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

The Highlands

Location: Mountainous area in the north west.

Nothing says Scotland more than a snowy winter escape in the Highlands. An area that’s on almost every Scottish explorer’s must-visit list is the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Highlands. Whether it’s the iconic Isle of Skye, the magnificent Cairngorms National Park , or admiring the whales and dolphins playing in the waters off the Moray Speyside coast, you’ve got plenty to choose from for a winter getaway in the Highlands.

The Highlands offer up the perfect playground for every outdoor enthusiast. With all types of terrain and weather conditions there’s a wealth of activities you can get involved in. There’s skiing and snowboarding paradise here with 5 resorts close by and plenty of snowfall if the temperature is right. Munro baggers will be in their element with hundreds of peaks to choose from. Just make sure you’ve got all the right equipment with you. If scaling a peak isn’t for you then there are plenty of low level woodland walks and trails you can follow that look magical in the snow.

After a day in the outdoors, treat yourself to a slow and relaxing festive period with a luxury or spa stay in the Highlands. With spectacular views everywhere you look and the chance of snow dancing outside your window, you’re in for a tranquil time before the new year starts.

Make sure you add a few hidden gems to your itinerary too. Badenoch is a trip into the history and heritage of the region with fascinating stories of the land and people to uncover. Near Inverness you’ll find Nairn . Did you know this seaside town is one of the sunniest and driest places in Scotland? Don’t forget the West Highland Peninsula - full of rugged, untouched landscapes and the perfect conditions for stargazing in the night sky, it’s a must-do!

Explore more in the Scottish Highlands

Stargazing in the Mull of Galloway

Dumfries & Galloway

Location: South west of central Scotland.

Speaking of stargazing , Dumfries & Galloway is one of the best places in Scotland to see the twinkling night sky in action. With rural locations away from the light pollution of cities, people often spot shooting stars, constellations and other planets here. If you’re looking for a winter getaway, you’re spoilt for choice on places to stay, from family-run B&Bs, quaint cottages, glamping treehouses and more.

The area is a great place for walking too, with the Southern Upland Way and dozens of locals walks on your doorstep, you can choose from lots of short and sweet strolls, or challenge yourself with the longer walking routes. If you want to see the sights but don’t fancy the walk, explore the South West Coastal 300 driving route which takes you on a loop around the regions starting and finishing in Dumfries, or head along the Galloway Tourist Route from Gretna to Ayr. You’ll pass ancient abbeys, coastal lighthouses, grand castles and more along the way.

Visit Dumfries & Galloway

Of course that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Scotland’s must-visit destinations. These were just a few of the best places to visit across the seasons but the adventures don’t stop here. Where will you go next?

Weather: you can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7-13°C (or 45°-55°F) during the months of March, April and May.

Leven Links Golf Course in the Kingdom of Fife.

© Fife Council / Airborne Lens

Location: East of Scotland, across the Firth of Forth north of Edinburgh.

As spring comes into full bloom it’s the perfect time to admire Scotland’s blossoming outdoors and dig your teeth into the natural larder which is now becoming ready for harvest.

In Fife you can visit a variety of farms that offer a family-friendly ‘pick your own’ experience, with a range of produce to choose from as well as farm shops with homemade goods, freshly grown fruits and vegetables and more to buy and take home. It’s a great way to get back to nature with the wee ones.  Pittormie Fruit Farm , Cairnie Fruit Farm , and Pillars of Hercules are just a few of the farms you can head out to visit. Make sure to check ahead for what produce is available at each farm before you head off.

Fife also boasts the perfect landscape for seaside and beach activities . With miles of coastline, sandy beaches, hidden bays and more, you can put the spring weather to the test with a cool dip in the sea, or relax on the shores with an afternoon of making sandcastles. Leven East Beach , Elie Harbour , and Aberdour Silversands are just a few beaches that are worth a visit.

Alongside stunning coastal locations, you can find a range of pretty fishing towns and villages that are full of character and are home to many cafés, restaurants and eateries to enjoy too. Why not explore Crail , Anstruther or Burntisland ?

Fife is also the place to be if you’re a golfing enthusiast. Home to more golf courses than anywhere else in Scotland, it’s the perfect destination for the beginners and pros alike. From the iconic Old Course in St Andrews and Kingsbarns Golf Links to Aberdour Golf Club and Leven Links Golf Course , you’ve got plenty of choice, all of which boast incredible views to admire whilst you tee off.

Plan your trip to the Kingdom of Fife

Duncansby Stacks, Wick

© markmcgeephotos

Caithness & Sutherland

Location: Furthest north area of mainland Scotland.

If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures and rustic towns and villages, why not explore Caithness & Sutherland? The far north of the Highlands calls to the avid explorers and hikers as the spring weather and warm sun brings the landscape to life after the winter.

This vast area of beautiful Scottish scenery offers a trip back in time with a history lesson or two about the land and people. Visit the most northern point, John O’Groats, as well as a number of ancient sites and attractions, such as Dunrobin Castle , Smoo Cave , The Castle & Gardens of Mey , and Wick Heritage Museum .

This region recently won an award in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Destinations of 2024 and once you’re here, you’ll easily see why! If you head north by train, the scenic route winds its way through the Flow Country – the most extensive blanket bog system in the world.

This incredible area stretches across Caithness and Sutherland, comprising an array of ecosystems, flora, fauna, and plays a vital part in the fight against climate change.

Learn more about travelling to Caithness & Sutherland

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