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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

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

Best Times to Go to Scotland

Best things to do in scotland.

• Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Where to Stay in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

One Week in Scotland

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

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

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

Day 1: Edinburgh

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Scotts View, Abbotsford, and Traquair

 Michelle Kelley Photography/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Eilean Donan and Glencoe

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: A Scenic Drive and a Loch Lomond Cruise

 Dennis Barnes/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Glasgow

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

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

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

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

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

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

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

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

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

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

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

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

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

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

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

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

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

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

Best place for live music and pub culture

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

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

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

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

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

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

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

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

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

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

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

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

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

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

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

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

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

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

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

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

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

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

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

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

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

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

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

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

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

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

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

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

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37 Scotland Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: October 19, 2023

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Scotland is one of those countries that has the world in a permanent chokehold. With idyllic lochs and glens, soaring Munros, vibrant cities, and absurdly charming accents… it’s hard to believe sometimes that this country is real.

But real it is my friends, and somehow, it’s even better when you get to see it all in person.

Unlike other places in the world where reality pales in comparison to the filtered photos, Scotland is somehow more magical, more captivating, and more charming than photos can convey… so long as you prepare properly.

I recently spent a month in Scotland, mainly for festival season in Edinburgh and there were a lot of silly things I had to learn the hard way. Turns out Scotland, while amazing, can have a few traps and easy mistakes that first timers fall into.

So, in this post, I’ll be sharing the Scotland travel tips I wish I had before my first visit. I hope you find them helpful! 

Save this list of Scotland Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Know the difference between Scotland, England, the UK & Great Britain

Alright, let’s kickstart this list of Scotland travel tips with a simple but very important distinction: the difference between Scotland, England, the UK & Great Britain.

While I’d like to think not too many people use them interchangeably, here’s what you need to know: Scotland is located in the northern portion of the island of Great Britain .

It is part of the United Kingdom but it’s culturally very distinct from other parts of the UK, like England, Wales & Northern Ireland.

So, keep in mind that when you go to Scotland, you’re experiencing Scottish culture and hearing Scottish accents – don’t call them English or refer to their accents as “British”. 

2. Familiarize yourself with Scotland’s airports

When planning your grand arrival into bonny Scotland, you should know that there are five international airports in Scotland:

• Aberdeen International Airport
• Edinburgh Airport
• Glasgow International Airport
• Glasgow Prestwick Airport (AKA just Prestwick Airport)
• Inverness Airport

For most visitors from overseas, Edinburgh Airport is the most common point of entry and is well connected to the city by public transport like buses and trams.

NOTE: While its flights are limited, Glasgow Prestwick is the only airport in Scotland that’s directly connected to the country’s rail network, but all the other airports are well served by other forms of public transport like buses and trams.

3. Create a mixed itinerary to make the most of all Scotland has to offer

Now in terms of where to go, believe me when I say that there is SO much to see in Scotland that one trip, even fifty trips, wouldn’t be enough.

So, to make the most of your time, I’d suggest mixing things up and combining both city and nature travel, as well as famous and offbeat sights to get a varied taste of what makes Scotland so special.

While most first time visitors will usually visit some combination of Edinburgh, Glasgow & the Highlands, that’s just a tiny portion of the country, which the official tourism authority divides into over a dozen different regions.

So, be sure to look beyond the most famous areas to create a well-rounded trip you’ll never forget. Ever.

… So how can you find places more off the beaten path? Well, here are some ideas…

4. Prioritize exploring one area thoroughly vs. trying to cover too much ground

If your goal is to combine both iconic sights with more offbeat finds, then I would recommend picking a smaller area of Scotland to cover for your trip, rather than trying to cover too much ground.

The truth is there are loads of ultra famous places in Scotland like the Isle of Skye or Loch Ness, but if you do your research, you’ll likely be able to find many alternatives for famous islands, lochs or castles closer to your chosen base.  Loch Ness for instance is literally only one of over 30,000 lochs. 

So sticking to a small area will not only save money but also help you find hidden gems of your own.

5. Get inspiration from local Scottish content creators

I would also recommend consuming content from creators based in Scotland because they’re way more likely to have covered offbeat places compared to bloggers who come for a week or two, or even a month like me.

(I mean give me time to catch up… I’m working on it!)

In the meantime, until I can empty my savings and drool reservoir in the foolish pursuit of ‘completing Scotland’, here are some Scotland-based creators I can recommend:

• Watch Me See 
• Wayfaring Kiwi 

6. Rent a car if you want to explore in-depth

While public transport with trains and buses is pretty good between and within cities in Scotland, you will definitely need a car if you want to explore Scotland’s nature & countryside in-depth.

There are some seriously gorgeous road trips in Scotland like the…

• North Coast 500
• The North East 250 
• And many many more

Plus having a car will just allow you to see a lot more on your own schedule, so if independence is important to you, then car rental is a must.

And I say this from experience! My boyfriend and I didn’t have a car during our month in Scotland because we stayed primarily in Edinburgh, and while we were still able to see a lot through booking day tours, this of course restricted us to some of the best known and most visited places in Scotland.

Granted, we still had a wonderful time, but there was no shaking the shameless tourist vibe, so if you’re someone who likes to explore more offbeat places, then you’ll definitely need a car for that.

If you do rent a car though…

7. Prepare yourself for driving in Scotland

Apart from driving on the left side, roads can be quite narrow and regulations may be different to what you’re used to at home.

The legal alcohol limit for instance is stricter than elsewhere in the UK, which catches a lot of people off guard if they just want to have a beer with lunch, so be sure to read up on all the rules before you go rather than assuming.

8. Plan for (or around) Scotland’s peak seasons

In terms of when to go, know that peak season is definitely summer, especially August in and around Edinburgh, when the entire city come alive with festival season. ( Read my Edinburgh travel tips too if you’re headed that way!)

There’s also other fun summer events like Highland Games across the country, as well as some very popular winter festivals as well, including Hogmanay, the country’s very famous New Year’s celebrations.

This is why you should book as far in advance as possible for peak periods like summer and Christmas if you want to experience some of these cultural events… or plan to visit in off/shoulder seasons if you want to get away from the crowds. 

9. Book ahead whenever possible

In any case, booking ahead for accommodation is always a good idea in Scotland.

A lot of popular tourist places like Inverness are relatively small and don’t have that many hotels compared to larger cities, so booking in advance is your best defense against eye-gouging prices.

10. Take note that there’s freedom to roam 

Now, this is a Scotland travel tip that you’re not likely to use as an average tourist, but just to throw this out there, if you enjoy camping or just wandering out to new places with reckless abandon, Scotland is an excellent place for it thanks to their rules around ‘freedom to roam’ (AKA right to roam).

Thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act of 2003, Scotland has this principle known as freedom to roam, which gives people the right to access most land and inland water for (non-motorised) recreational activities, with main exceptions being common sense areas like private gardens and fields with crops.

So, if you want to get out there and really experience Scotland’s nature, go for it!

11. Get a travel-friendly credit card before your trip

As I mentioned in my England travel tips post, these days, contactless card payments are increasingly common across the UK, with many public transport systems relying on them, and even some establishments becoming card-only.

The same is true in Scotland, so if you don’t have a travel-friendly credit card already (meaning one that minimizes fees abroad) then I’d recommend getting one.

I used my Wise card pretty much everyday and never had any issues. They’re my go-to for simple travel-friendly cards, plus your card is sent to you for free so there’s really no downsides.

12. Be sure to try local Scottish delicacies

Alright, with that shiny new card in hand, it’s time to spend it on some tasty Scottish fare.

Here are some iconic Scottish dishes to fuel you through your sightseeing rampage through Scotland:

• Haggis: A famous dish that requires no introduction – keep an open mind and try it before you Google it. I actually think it’s pretty good! It’s usually served with neeps and tatties, which are mashed turnip and mashed potato
• Cullen skink: A creamy fish soup, usually served with some bread
• Chicken tikka masala : Marinated chicken in a spiced tomato-based sauce. Fun fact, it’s considered a national dish of the UK, which some credit to a chef in Glasgow 
• Shortbread: THE buttery cookie beloved across the world!

And if you want to try something more gluttonous, Scottish chippies are pretty famous for their ability to fry anything , from pizza to Mars Bars. 

Many takeaway places also do munchie boxes which involve tons of (usually deep fried) fast food thrown into a box. Maybe good to try just once, for the sake of your arteries.

13. Make food bookings in advance

Now, in terms of restaurants, it might be smart to book in advance, especially during peak season.

This is especially true in smaller places like Inverness where there aren’t a ton of options. Luckily, these days, most food spots have fairly simple booking systems online when you search them up on Google Maps. For more old school restaurants, email or phone bookings also work well.

In any case, if you have your heart set on a particular place, make sure to book ahead whenever you’re able to.

14. Try whisky, but know the ground rules

Now another important tip when in Scotland is to try whisky.

… I mean duh. Of course you will! In the name of culture.

I do have to share some ground rules I learned the hard way though, so remember the following:

• Call it a whisky not a scotch
• Be sure to order it as a dram of whiskey, not a shot
• Remember whisky should be sipped slowly and savoured, not just quickly knocked back 

And if you’re overwhelmed with the selection which is inevitable, a good trick is to just ask the bartender for a recommendation… BUT do give them some general guidance on your preferences otherwise it’s as ridiculous a question as asking “can you recommend me a food?”

Generally, some taste profiles that go into whisky include smokiness, fruitiness, nuttiness, peatiness and how floral it is. So be prepared with your preferences so they can guide you to the right recommendation.

NOTE: It goes without saying, only ask for recommendations when it’s not super busy. If you’re at a pub and they’re up to their eyeballs in orders, that’s generally not the time to ask for their whisky insights.

Lastly, this is unlikely to come up as a tourist, but be mindful that whisky in Scotland is spelled without the e. This is a mistake I made a lot! Whiskey with an e is more often used to describe Irish whiskey and we don’t talk about her here.

15. Book a whisky experience if you can

Now if you’re into whisky or new to it, one fun Scotland tip is touring a distillery or doing a whisky experience at some point.

Whisky is a drink that’s easier to appreciate when you know more about it, which is why I’d recommend booking some kind of tour or experience that teaches you about whisky and how to appreciate it, rather than just a standard tasting.

There’s over 100 whisky distilleries to choose from, many of which offer tours. It’s shamelessly touristy but one of the best things to do in Edinburgh (IMO) is the new Johnnie Walker experience in Edinburgh . I thought it was SO much fun, and super informative for a newbie.

Just be warned: you will definitely walk out of there a brainwashed Johnnie Walker convert. I definitely hoarded a few bottles at Duty-Free…

That said, be sure to…

16. Try gin and other tipples in Scotland too

I was really pleasantly surprised during my month in Scotland to see that gin is a pretty big deal, with 70% of the UK’s gin produced here.

The craft beer scene is also growing rapidly, so be sure to diversify your booze portfolio beyond just whisky.

… All in the name of culture, of course.

17. Be sure to try a glug of IRN BRU

One of my favourite fun facts is that Scotland is one of the very few places in the world where Coca Cola isn’t the best selling soft drink. The unlikely national hero? IRN BRU – a bright orange soda with a flavour that’s really hard to describe… 

It is considered one of THE most quintessentially Scottish things though so be sure to try it while you’re in Scotland!

18. Take advantage of meal deals for budget-friendly feeds

Now, dining out all the time in Scotland can quickly add up to budget-destroying levels, so a good solution if you’re just on the go is heading to a supermarket to get some picnic foods, or in a pinch, trying an almighty Meal Deal.

Meal Deals are a staple of UK chains that allows you to grab a main, a snack and a drink for less than £5. Some chains now require you to sign up for a free loyalty card (eg Tesco Clubcard) to unlock the best deals though, so be mindful of that and do it in advance if you think the savings would be worth it.

19. Beware of seagulls 

Random but wildly important Scotland tip: if you find yourself dining outdoors at any point, DO be mindful that sneaky seagulls may be lurking nearby, ready to snap your food away in seconds.

… You’ve been warned.

20. Don’t assume that all of Scotland is kilts and bagpipes

Now, moving over to Scotland culture & etiquette tips, I want to remind you that Scotland is more than just its stereotypes.

… Which can be hard to believe, because in touristy areas, they really do ham things up for tourists, so you’ll see a ton of tartan, endless kilts, and plenty of bagpipes, but Scotland is a modern country with plenty to offer beyond its more traditional draws, so be sure to experience that side of Scotland too in addition to the fun touristy stuff.

NOTE: Please also refrain from asking weird questions based on stereotypes. I overheard a tourist ask a man if he wears anything under his kilt. Whether a misguided tourist question or bad flirting, I’d advise against it.

21. Be prepared to hear some Scots & Gaelic

Language-wise when travelling around Scotland, you will be 100% fine with English, but do know that depending on where you are, you may encounter Scots or Gaelic (which you’ll see a lot on road signs).

Now take note that while they’re spelled the same, Scottish Gaelic (pronounced Gah-lick) is not the same as Irish Gaelic (pronounced Gay-lick). They both descended from the same source but are now two very distinct languages.

And while as a tourist, you won’t need to learn Scots or Gaelic to get by, there are some pieces of vocabulary used in place names so it’s worth knowing them.

For instance…

• Loch = lake 
• Ben = peaks or mountains
• Glen = valleys
• Alba = the Gaelic name for Scotland, seen quite a lot, like in the localized channels for BBC, which is known in Scotland as BBC Alba

22. Know what it means to “bag a Munro”

Another piece of vocabulary to know is Munro, which refers to mountains in Scotland over 3000 ft. This doesn’t come from Scots or Gaelic though, they’re named for Sir Hugh Munro, who famously published a list of Scotland’s highest mountains. 

Hardcore people today make a hobby out of “bagging Munros” which means reaching the top of these mega-mountains. There’s 282 of them, and the current record is held by a badass woman known as Jamie Aarons , who bagged all 282 Munros in 31 days.

31. DAYS. That’s an average of over 9 Munros a day.

Meanwhile, here’s me:

Now if you’re not up for bagging Munros, a more feasible challenge might simply be to…

23. Learn to pronounce Scottish place names somewhat correctly 

One of the most common tourist mistakes you encounter in Scotland is first time visitors pronouncing words/names wrong, which is fair because not all names are pronounced like how they’re spelled in English.

So, here are some common ones to take note of:

• Edinburgh is pronounced Ed-in-bruh, not Eden-Borrow, Edin-borrow, or Edin-berg 
• Glasgow is pronounced Glaz-go, not not Glass-G’ow
• Culross is pronounced Coo-Riss, not Cull-Ross

… and many, many more.

The key is to listen out for how locals are pronouncing it whether that be your taxi driver, your guide or even the automated announcements the train station.

That said, there’s obviously slight differences depending on accents, and Scottish people tend to be really nice and forgiving so don’t stress too much.

24. Beware of sightseeing passes

Unfortunately, paid attractions in Scotland can be quite pricey, and while sightseeing passes (e.g. ones where you pay a set fee for many different attractions at once) do exist, many of them aren’t worth it unless you’ll be visiting a wide range of sights across the country.

Some common ones include…

• City-specific passes like the Edinburgh City Pass
• Historic Scotland
• National Trust for Scotland
• The Explorer Pass

So, before blindly purchasing one of these passes, I would make sure to first total up the cost of the attractions you actually want to see, then comparing it to the pass cost. Often you’ll find it’s not worth it unless you’re staying for a long time and visiting many attractions during your visit.

25. Take advantage of all the free attractions

One of my favourite things about Scotland is just how many free museums and attractions there are to visit.

In pretty much every destination, you’ll find free things to do, so before you spend all your money on attraction tickets, be sure to search up free things to do in your destination of choice. Odds are, you’ll find plenty!

26. Get familiar with Scottish accents before your trip

Now, another tricky thing for first time visitors in Scotland is if you’re not used to it, understanding the Scottish accent may be a challenge, especially once you leave big cities and start venturing farther out.

But a fun Scotland tip for getting used to the accent is simply watching movies and TV shows set in Scotland. This will also help you adjust to some vocabulary differences, as well as just get you excited for your trip.

Some recommendations include (obviously) Outlander if you’re into that kind of show, or Mary Queen of Scots and Outlaw King for some handy historical context and beautiful backdrops. 

PS: This might be a good time to mention that Braveheart is wildly inaccurate but entertaining nonetheless.

27. Carry a bit of cash, especially coins

While paid toilets aren’t a universal thing in Scotland like in other countries (e.g. Germany ), apparently 18 councils across the country do charge a small fee for using the toilet (usually 30p or less).

I noticed this when I was in Inverness and the surrounding area, with many public toilets (even in train and bus stations) charging a small amount like 10 or 20p for the facilities, so it’s not enough to just bring some cash, coins are a must.

28. Scottish money is different, but English bills are welcome too

Plus beware that while Scotland does use the pound just like the rest of the UK, there are specific Scottish bills/notes that are unique.

This shouldn’t be too big of a deal since English pounds are accepted everywhere as well, and technically speaking these Scottish bills are legal tender throughout the UK, but do withdraw your cash sparingly as sometimes places elsewhere in the UK can be a bit funny about accepting Scottish banknotes.

29. Tip around 10% for good service

Now in terms of tipping in Scotland, tips aren’t mandatory in all settings but usually when it comes to sit-down table service, 10% ish is common for good service.

30. Don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk (AKA pavement) for photos

Having experienced this too many times during my month in Edinburgh, I now completely understand the local rage against it.

Scotland is beautiful and you will be compelled to take photos every three seconds, but before you do so, make sure you pull over to the side and not block anyone’s way. 

31. Be prepared for all kinds of weather

Scottish weather is notoriously gloomy and random. So even if you are coming in the summer, don’t expect summer weather all the time…

Instead, be prepared for all kinds of potential weather at all times by packing layers that are versatile for different conditions.

I would definitely prioritize a good waterproof or windproof jacket over an umbrella because with Scottish rain comes Scottish wind which makes many umbrellas quite useless.

32. Prioritize comfortable walking shoes

And, unless you have a specific event you know you’ll be going to, no need to bring heels or fancy footwear. Comfort is key!

Which is how I ended up with silly outfits like this:

33. Beware of midges and ticks

If you plan to do any hiking in Scotland, be sure to prepare against the notorious Scottish midges and ticks. Bring insect repellant and lots of it!

34. Make sure you go to a place with some live music

There’s honestly no better way to finish off a day of sightseeing in Scotland than with a cold beer and live music. Be sure to add this into your itinerary at some point! It’s so much fun.

35. Avoid cheap souvenir shops and outfits in busy tourist areas

Lastly, a few Scotland tips for buying souvenirs: the first one being to avoid the tacky souvenir shops you see in busy touristy areas.

Sadly, these shops aren’t necessarily selling you the best quality stuff and if you’re looking for wearable souvenirs like a Tartan scarf that will actually last, then getting one from a pricier but more reputable brand might be a good idea. A lot of the souvenir shops sell polyester replicas which aren’t the best quality. 

The same idea goes for other souvenir items – finding an independent shop stocked with local makers might mean more unique and better quality gifts to bring home.

36. Avoid buying the cheap souvenir shop tartan berets & kilts

On a similar note, I would also personally avoid buying & wearing cheap souvenir shop accessories, like tartan berets, especially the ones with red hair attached to them, just because people in Scotland really don’t wear those in their day to day lives and they look a bit silly. 

The same applies for buying souvenir shop kilts. I honestly can’t imagine a scenario where it would make sense for a tourist to buy and wear a kilt while they’re just out exploring… especially because they don’t tend to be day to day attire for Scottish people anyway.

At the end of the day though, wear whatever makes you happy!

37. Be sure to leave space in your luggage

Last but not least, remember to pack light when you come to Scotland so you have room for goodies to bring home!

There are many excellent potential souvenirs in Scotland, but they tend to be bulkier items like wooly goods, so make sure you have the space for it.

PRO TIP: You can always pack a second bag (or nest a small suitcase within a larger one) so you only have to check a second bag on the way home.

Did I Forget Any of Your Favourite Scottish Travel Tips?

Let me know in the comments! Safe and happy travels 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

2 thoughts on “37 Scotland Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

Christina. A good fair and accurate assessment of Scotland.

Allan( a Scot from Kirkcaldy)

Thanks so much, Allan! 🙂

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The Northern Lights viewed from Oban

© VisitScotland / Oban and Lorn Tourism Alliance / Sheila McIntyre

The Ultimate Scotland Itinerary

Venture across Scotland, exploring some of the most popular attractions and locations in this 14 day Ultimate Scotland Itinerary.

From the well-known scenic landscapes, famed attractions, iconic monuments, and breathtaking locations that have made cameo appearances in TV and Films - Scotland is a must-visit destination. Come and uncover the best of Scotland, which will leave you in awe and itching to come back to explore everything else on the map.

• Distance 543 Miles 869 km
• Transport Bus
• Main theme Sightseeing

Day 1 Edinburgh

Where better to start off your journey than in the Scottish capital?  Edinburgh  is one of Scotland's much loved cities and is home to world-renowned summer festivals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as bags of  history  to uncover.

Explore historic monuments, lovely green spaces, top-class dining experiences, fantastic shopping locations and much more in all the nooks and crannies across the city.

Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh - City Centre

Edinburgh Castle in the sunshine

Time your visit just right so you're there to witness the firing of the famous One o'Clock Gun. 

Just walking up the esplanade on approach, you know you're about to step into one of Scotland's most special historic buildings. Take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls as you explore great halls, royal chambers, monuments and dungeons. To avoid disappointment, make sure to book your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry.

• On Public Transport Route
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Level Access
• Cafe or Restaurant

Arthur's Seat Edinburgh - City Centre

Salisbury Crags by Arthur's Seat

Why not take a picnic to enjoy whilst you soak up the views of the city from the top of Arthur's Seat?

Probably not many city getaways involve climbing an extinct volcano, but we think the more adventurous of you are going to love it, especially on a clear day! Head to Holyrood Park, located near the bottom of the Royal Mile, and take in the best views of the city from the top of Arthur's Seat. You'll get incredible panoramas over Edinburgh and beyond, across the Firth of Forth to the majestic Kingdom of Fife.

Calton Hill Edinburgh

Scottish National Monument.

© Kenny Lam, VisitScotland. All rights reserved.

The short walk up Calton Hill is a great place to begin and get your bearings. The whole city can be admired in all directions from the top of this hill, including key landmarks - Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh Castle and the Three Bridges. There are views across the Firth of Forth in one direction and the Pentland Hills in the other. The good news is, it's a really quick wander, so you can have the rest of the day to explore the city.

Day 2 Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway

Journey southwards from Edinburgh to the glorious  Scottish Borders  and picturesque  Dumfries & Galloway . From the rolling hills and moorlands that inspired Sir Walter Scott, to the friendly towns and glorious green countryside of Dumfries & Galloway - there are miles upon miles of  landscapes  in  southern Scotland  to explore.

Melrose Abbey Melrose

Melrose Abbey

We're very lucky to share with you wonderful stories of Scotland's historic past, and Melrose Abbey is no exception. Originally founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, the abbey is believed to be the final resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. Although largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385, you can take an audio tour around the site and see its striking architectural details up close. A few significant features to spot include hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and even a bagpipe playing pig. The question is, can you find them all?

Why visit one Borders abbey when you can visit another three, you're on holiday after all! Discover the magnificent ruined abbeys of Dryburgh, Jedburgh and Kelso along  The Borders Abbeys Way . This 103 km walk takes you on a colourful journey through history dating back to the 12th century. Admire the picturesque scenery as you stop off to explore the pretty towns and villages or if you're looking to catch a bite, head to the River Tweed and River Teviot for a bit of morning fishing.

Caerlaverock Castle Glencaple

Caerlaverock Castle

Surrounded by its own moat and built in an unusual triangular shape, kids and adults alike will have a blast exploring the ruins of Caerlaverock Castle. There are multiple levels within the castle to explore as well as a short nature walk through the woods to the site of the old castle.

Day 3 Glasgow

The day starts bright and early as you travel north west to the cultural hub of  Glasgow . Here you can explore a whole host of attractions and gems that capture the true personality of the city.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum Glasgow West End

Exterior of the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Glasgow's trendy West End is home to Kelvingrove, a free museum packed with over 8,000 intriguing objects and artefacts. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of art, from the Dutch Old Masters and the French Impressionists, to perhaps its most famous piece, Christ of St John of the Cross by Salvador Dali.

• Hearing Loop
• Accessible toilets

Riverside Museum and Tall Ship Glasgow City Centre

Riverside Museum

The Riverside Museum is a visual feast - the building itself is one of the most striking modern buildings in Scotland. Inside, the museum houses all kinds of exhibits related to transport. Vehicles, bikes, and locomotives dating from different periods can be found. In addition, you can also explore the Clyde-built Tall Ship, which is berthed alongside the museum.

Day 4 Falkirk

Up next is  Falkirk . Head north east from Glasgow to experience outstanding attractions, modern wonders, and historical treasures, as well as great shopping centres, award-winning boutiques,  restaurants  and more.

The Falkirk Wheel Falkirk

The Falkirk Wheel

The Forth & Clyde and Union canals are linked together by The Falkirk Wheel, an impressive piece of engineering, which opened in 2002. Learn about and ride a canal boat on the world’s only rotating boat lift and enjoy activities by the canal, such as cycling, walking, canoeing, segway rides and playing in the water park. You can hire canoes, bikes and electric boats, so there’s no excuse for not taking to the water! Here you’ll also find a walk to see the remains of the Antonine Wall, which was created from earthen mounds in Roman times.

• Pets Welcome

Stirling Castle Stirling

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most historically important sites and was once a favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations at the castle. Meticulously restored, today you can meet costumed characters in the roles of bodyguards, court officials, maids of honour and servants who will bring the world of Scotland's 16th century court to life.

Day 5 Stirling

Stay in the area a while longer and explore the gems of  Stirling . It's a wee city with a big history, fascinating attractions and spectacular scenery to enjoy. Don't forget to explore the many places to shop, eat and drink as well as experience lively events throughout the year.

National Wallace Monument Stirling

The National Wallace Monument

An outstanding landmark and one of Stirling’s most striking visits - commemorating the life of Sir William Wallace.

Bannockburn Stirling

Robert the Bruce Statue at the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre

The Battle of Bannockburn changed Scotland's history forever in 1314. Scotland's great warrior king, Robert the Bruce, led Scotland to victory against King Edward II and the English army. The visitor experience puts you at the heart of the action with cutting-edge 3D technology.

Day 6 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

This extraordinary national park is home to wild scenery, thrilling history and superb local  food and drink .  Loch Lomond  is one of our most beautiful and iconic locations that has inspired love songs, as well as tales and stories throughout the years. At the heart of the park you can find Loch Lomond itself.

Did you know, the park is home to 21 Munros, 19 Corbetts and 22 large lochs?

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Loch Lomond Area

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a hiker's paradise, with stunning vistas in every direction. Lace up your boots and explore the  Luss Heritage Trail , a lovely short walk around a quaint loch-side village. Or, why not spend another day here and challenge yourself to something a little more strenuous? The most southerly Munro  Ben Lomond ,  Ben A'an , and  The Cobbler  are all rewarding climbs nearby.

Inveraray Castle Inveraray

A view of the Castle from the South-West.

Feel like you're in a fairytale and visit one of Scotland's most romantic castles. Visitors will be able to view historic pieces of armoury, a fine collection of china, silver, tapestries and much more. If you fancy staying longer, the expansive estate offers first-class holiday accommodation to help you get a good night's rest.

Day 7 Fort William

Start your day bright and early with a scenic journey northwards to  Fort William . Here you can conquer  Munros , taste some of the finest Scotch  whisky , enjoy loch-side wanders, take a trip aboard the steam train that took Harry Potter to Hogwarts and much more.

Ben Nevis Fort William

The River Lochy with Ben Nevis

You’ve arrived at Fort William, part of the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, so it’s time to get active! Keen hillwalkers will relish the challenge of scaling Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland, which stands at 4,406 ft (1,343 m). Make sure to visit  Walk Highlands  for detailed maps, difficulty levels and walking advice before you climb.

Day 8 Glenfinnan

From Fort William, make your way along to  Glenfinnan  at the head of Loch Shiel to see stunning scenery and experience the magical atmosphere for yourself. Here you can see the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct up close, which also transports the famous  Jacobite Steam Train  from Fort William to Mallaig. Glenfinnan has also been the scenic backdrop for many scenes in the famous  Harry Potter  films and you can even hop aboard the real Hogwarts Express that was used in the films for an atmospheric journey across the viaduct.

Glenfinnan Monument Glenfinnan

Glenfinnan Monument & Visitor Centre

While you’re here, make sure to snap some pictures of the nearby Glenfinnan Viaduct – it’s a famous filming location from the  Harry Potter  movies.

Stretch your legs and breathe in fresh Highland air as you visit the Glenfinnan Monument on the banks of Loch Shiel. Bonnie Prince Charlie raised the Jacobite flag here in August 1745 (beginning the final Jacobite Rising), after arriving on the mainland from the  Outer Hebrides .

Climb the monument for views out across Loch Shiel and pop into the visitor centre to learn more about the 1745 Rising.

Day 9 Loch Ness

Shrouded in mystery, myths and legends,  Loch Ness  is home to the famed creature that is the Loch Ness Monster. The loch is the UK's largest body of water and is around 700 ft. deep, so finding Nessie herself may take a while. Loch Ness is the perfect place for quiet, scenic walks, afternoon picnics and taking in the natural beauty around you.

Urquhart Castle Loch Ness

Urquhart Castle viewed from Loch Ness

St Columba is said to have worked miracles here in the sixth century.

The magnificent Urquhart Castle is located on the banks of the famous Loch Ness. Stand and soak in a thousand years of history - it has witnessed some of the most dramatic chapters in Scotland's past where clan rivalries saw bloody raids carried out in the 15th and 16th centuries. You might even witness a historic event yourself, should you spot the elusive Nessie, Loch Ness's most famous resident.

The Loch Ness Centre Drumnadrochit

View of Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle

In Drumnadrochit, find out more about the legends of Nessie, all the sightings - real or not - and find out where the stories and tales stemmed from all those years ago, at the Loch Ness Centre.

Stay in one of the local cottages, B&Bs or hostels and complete your stay by enjoying some delicious local food, and even try a dram or pint of some traditional Scottish drinks.

Day 10 Sutherland

It's an early start as you set off to Sutherland, near Lairg, for spectacular, sweeping landscapes, fantastic attractions, stunning  gardens , scenic views, and traditional Scottish  wildlife  in every corner. 

Dunrobin Castle Golspie

Dunrobin Castle

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Dunrobin Castle is also one of Britain's oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s, and was home to the Earls and, later, the Dukes of Sutherland. 

The magnificent Dunrobin Castle is the largest house in the Highlands. Crowned with a myriad of fairytale towers and turrets, Dunrobin is unique for resembling a vast French château rather than the baronial stronghold typical of the Highlands. It has a whopping 189 rooms, making it one of the biggest homes in the country. In fact, it's one of Britain's oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s, and was home to the Earls and, later, the Dukes of Sutherland. 

Its lavishly furnished interior, sprawling formal gardens, and grounds which stretch as far as the sea, are nothing short of breathtaking. It's even said to have a ghost...

Aviemore Aviemore

Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel

© Hostelling Scotland

Spend time in the picturesque town of Aviemore set in the north west corner of the park. Surrounded by spellbinding scenery, it makes an excellent base for exploring the park and offers easy access to an incredible range of outdoor activities. Nearby is the  Highland Wildlife Park  where you can get tantalisingly close to Scotland’s rarest indigenous species including the Scottish wildcat and elusive capercaillie. 

Day 11 Cairngorms National Park

The  Cairngorms National Park  is a haven for wildlife, dense woodland, picturesque lochs and miles upon miles of forest trails to explore. Twice the size of the Lake District, this national park has more mountains, forest paths, rivers, lochs, wildlife hotspots, friendly villages, and distilleries than you can possibly imagine.

Did you know that the Cairngorms is where the majority of Scotland's wildcats call home? So make sure you keep your eyes peeled!

Day 12 Aberdeen

Aberdeen  is shrouded in fascinating history, boasts streets lined with astounding architecture, all while featuring a picturesque coastline and harbour. Explore rolling hills, open farmland and towering mountains in the splendour of  Aberdeenshire .

Balmoral Castle Ballater

Balmoral Castle

You'll recognise this iconic castle which featured in the Oscar-winning film  The Queen , a 2006 portrayal of HM The Queen, Elizabeth II.

Royal Deeside is home to the famous Balmoral Castle, a firm favourite with the Royal Family. The estate has been in the family since 1848, after it was purchased by Queen Victoria. Enjoy a stroll around castle gardens, visit the ballroom and special exhibitions or relax with a drink in the coffee and gift shop.

Day 13 Perth

Head south to the wonderful city of  Perth . Here you can explore fabulous city gems, glorious parks and green spaces, historically-significant attractions and much more, all with bustling markets and quirky shops to browse too.

Scone Palace Perth

Scone Palace, Scottish Visitor Attraction, Historic House, Palace, Castle

© Scone Palace

Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were once crowned.

Scone breathes history like nowhere else in Scotland. It is the family home of the Earls of Mansfield and the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings on the stone of Scone. See where the Stone of Scone, known as the Stone of Destiny, once stood. It now resides in Edinburgh Castle.

Day 14 Dundee & Fife

The east of Scotland is a gem in itself, featuring picturesque coastline trails, world-renowned city hotspots, scenic hills and glens to explore and much more. Get ready to uncover the unique city of  Dundee  and the glorious region of  Fife  in the final stop of your tour.

RRS Discovery Dundee City

Purple sunset over Discovery Point and RRS Discovery in Dundee. Reflection of RRS Discovery on the water.

Hop on board the ship which has travelled to the ends of the earth and back! Captain Scott and his hardy crew reached the then undiscovered polar region of Antarctica in the early 1900s in one of the most significant expeditions to have ever been undertaken. Wander through the ship, see objects that belonged to Scott and his men, and discover their brave tales of seafaring and difficulties in the Antarctic. At this family attraction, there's plenty of engaging things to see and do that kids will really enjoy.

St Andrews Cathedral St Andrews

St Andrews Cathedral

A ‘must-see’ for any visitor, explore the remains of St Andrews Cathedral, which was once the largest church in Scotland. The cathedral’s museum houses an outstanding collection of medieval sculptures and relics which were found on the site. Make sure to climb St Rule’s Tower, which dates from the 12th century, to see amazing views across St Andrews and Fife.

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Scotland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in scotland.

1. Explore the Scottish Highlands

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

2. Visit Edinburgh

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

3. Celebrate Hogmanay

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

4. Drink whisky in Islay

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

5. Visit Inverness

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

Other Things to See and Do in Scotland

1. try to find nessie.

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

2. Wander around Glasgow

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

3. See the cathedrals

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

4. Puzzle over Rosslyn Chapel

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

5. Play golf

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

6. See the Cuillin

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

7. Visit Ruins of Melrose Abbey

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

8. Explore Dundee

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

9. Visit the Mystical Smoo Cave

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

10. Head to the Isle of Arran

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

11. Explore the Cairngorms

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

12. Attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

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

13. Tour the Isle of Skye

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

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

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Scotland Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Scotland

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

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

How to Get Around Scotland

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

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

Airport shuttles cost around 6-8 GBP each way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

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

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Rosslyn Chapel

Searching for the Perfect Dram on Islay

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

50 Scotland Travel Tips For Travel In 2024

Categories Planning a trip to Scotland , Scotland , Scotland Guides

One of the things I love about travelling to another country is discovering the different ways they do things. Scotland is no exception, and after living here for almost six years, there are still things that surprise me when travelling this bonnie country. In this guide, I’m sharing 50 Scotland travel tips that will save you time, money, stress, and embarrassment- and help you have the best trip ever.

Table of Contents

Scotland is an old country with a plethora of history – this is one of the very reasons it attracts travellers from countries like New Zealand, Australia, the USA, and Canada, who live in relatively younger countries. As a Kiwi myself, I was drawn to Scotland because there were many things I couldn’t experience in New Zealand, such as castles built in the Middle Ages, Roman forts and ancient battlegrounds, and narrow country lanes that lead to tiny cottages built from horse hair and stone.

In my Facebook group, Scotland Travel Tips , many of the same questions about planning a trip to Scotland are asked. This inspired me to answer all of these questions, and offer other advice I think will be helpful to you when travelling to Scotland.

If you find this blog post helpful – make sure you share it!

This is the seventh article in my Planning A Trip to Scotland series . To read the first article in the series, click here . To receive all the articles in this series by email, you can sign up here .

My name is Yvette Webster – I chased my ancestry to Scotland, ended up meeting a Scot and falling in love, and now I live here with my husband, our son, and our dog, Angus. I’m a full-time Travel Writer, and I travel Scotland for a living, writing helpful guides and helping people plan their trips to Scotland via my blog and travel consultation service .

My favourite type of travel in Scotland is discovering the hidden gems and visiting the more off-beat places. In 2018, I was the first solo female to thru-hike the Scottish National Trail , an 874-kilometer / 536-mile hike that runs the length of Scotland. I got to know Scotland on such an intimate level and visited many places that tourists and locals never see – and I love encouraging people to get off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known places!

I have a degree in journalism and used to work as a travel agent. I combined my two passions and created my blog, Wayfaring Kiwi . I also run the popular Facebook group Scotland Travel Tips .

Need help planning your dream trip to Scotland? Sign up to our Planning A Trip To Scotland course which will walk you through planning your itinerary and booking your trip step by step!

50 Scotland Travel Tips You Need To Know

Planning your trip.

The Machrie Moor Standing Stones

1. If you are in the stages of planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to read my blog post on planning a trip to Scotland . It gives you a great introduction to planning your trip, including things to do, car hire, using public transport, how to book accommodation and activities, and more!

Read it once you’ve finished this article.

2. Be sure to include at least ONE hidden gem in your itinerary. Some of my suggestions include South-West Scotland , the Scottish Borders , the Cowal Peninsula, an island that isn’t the Isle of Skye, the Moray coast , and Aberdeenshire .

The Peebles Cross Kirk in the Scottish Borders

3. Slow down! One of the most common mistakes people make when visiting Scotland is that they try to attempt too much in their itineraries.

Choose 2-3 main activities per day, and have backup activities in mind in case you have some extra time. Scotland is a country to be experienced at a slow pace – and remember, you can always come back someday to check everything off your bucket list!

4. Tipping isn’t compulsory in Scotland, however, it is common practice. Wait staff are paid much better wages than you’d get in the USA and Canada , hence why tipping isn’t expected, however, I always leave a 10% tip or round the bill up to the nearest 5 or 0.

I also tip taxi drivers and Uber Eats/Just Eat drivers £1. You don’t need to tip every time you get a drink in a pub, just leave a tip of a few pounds when you leave.

5. Are you wondering when is the best time to visit Scotland? This varies from person to person, however, I personally love travelling around Scotland in April and May . It’s spring and Scotland is colourful, there are fewer crowds, there aren’t many midges around, and accommodation isn’t as expensive as it is during the summer months. The daylight hours are also better balanced.

I’ve written an in-depth blog post about the pros and cons of visiting Scotland each month , which will help you decide when is the best time to visit for you.

Edinburgh in spring

6. Terrified of the Highland midge? You really don’t need to be! But it’s a good idea to be prepared.

• Midges start appearing in late June and die out with the colder weather (usually around the end of September ).
• They hang around bodies of water, and usually appear in the morning and early evening when it’s cooler. If there is a slight breeze, this will blow the midges away so they won’t bother you.
• Only the females bite, and you’ll notice itchy bumps on your skin (similar to mosquito bites) if you’ve been bitten.
• You’re most likely to encounter midges if you are hiking or walking near rivers or lochs.
• You won’t generally encounter them in the cities, unless you’re near a river or canal.
• I recommend buying a few cans of Smidge to keep the midges at bay if you think you might encounter them on your travels. You can buy this in most grocery stores and outdoor shops.

My husband, the Haggis, wrote a great guide on how to avoid midges .

The Grassmarket in Edinburgh

7. Scotland has a large tick population, and to be honest, ticks worry me more than midges! Ticks can cause Lyme disease, but don’t panic because less than 10% of these beasties actually carry the disease. It’s still important to take steps to avoid a tick bite, however.

• You’ll encounter ticks in many parts of Scotland from March to October .
• They cannot jump, but will attach themselves to your clothing if you are walking through long grass. They will climb up your body until they find a warm, damp spot (for example, an armpit or belly button) and burrow into your skin for dinner!
• Smidge will also repel ticks – be sure to reapply it every couple of hours.
• Be sure to do a tick check when you get home if you’ve been in an area known to be rife with ticks, or you’ve been hiking.
• Some good news – I’ve been bitten by ticks many times while hiking in Scotland and I’ve been fine. Don’t let the fear of ticks stop you from hiking! Just use a good bug spray, and wear long pants when hiking in Scotland.

8. The Isle is Skye is a lovely island but it suffers from over-tourism. Personally, I wouldn’t visit Skye during the busy summer months. My favourite time to visit Skye is in April or November when it’s quieter. If you’re visiting during the summer, I recommend pre-booking your accommodation, restaurants, tours and activities that require a booking as soon as you know what dates you’ll be there . All of these things, especially accommodation, get booked up months in advance.

As a general guide, book your accommodation and tours 8-12 months in advance, and make restaurant reservations 1-3 months in advance. Not all restaurants will take bookings three months in advance- but some of the popular ones do. It’s better to be over-prepared when planning a trip to Skye so you don’t miss out!

9. Many people think that in Scotland we still live in the dark ages, due to its long history and the pretty medieval-looking photos that marketing and tour companies love to share. Scotland is an advanced country, and we have everything that most Western countries have – including pharmacies where you can purchase most medicines that don’t require a prescription. Don’t worry, you’re not travelling back in time when you visit Scotland, even if the buildings do look old!

Exploring the Christmas Markets in Glasgow

10. If you want to use your phone in Scotland, first, check with the phone provider you’re with to see what they can offer you.

If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a sim card when you arrive in Scotland. The main sim cards you can purchase in Scotland are Vodafone , Three , and EE . You can purchase these from a phone store (such as Carphone Warehouse ), a grocery store, corner shops – many places around Scotland.

For around £20, you can purchase a sim card on a 1-month plan that will give you around 4GB of data and unlimited texts and calls in the UK. If you’d like to keep in contact with your family back home, I recommend using the apps WhatsApp or Telegram to make texts and calls – these apps are free to use and all you need is data or a Wi-Fi connection!

If you purchase your sim card in England or Wales, it WILL work in Scotland, and vice versa.

Stirling Old Bridge and the Wallace Monument

11. If you are a tourist visiting Scotland on holiday and you require medical treatment, you will most likely have to pay for it. This is why I ALWAYS recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip.

Residents in Scotland receive most medical treatment for free, because the National Health System (NHS) is funded by the taxes we pay.

So how much medical cover should you get through your travel insurance? Usually, 1 million + will give you enough cover.

12. Did you know there are 15 regions in Scotland? While it’s difficult to visit every region on one trip to Scotland, you can learn what each region has to offer and which ones you should visit in my guide to the regions in Scotland .

13. The most typical itinerary in Scotland (the most touristy one) is Edinburgh – Isle of Skye – Inverness and back to Edinburgh or Glasgow. I jokingly call it the ‘tourist triangle’!

This itinerary is absolutely fine if you want to hit all the tourist hotspots – but believe me when I say there is SO much more to Scotland than just this route. I always recommend getting off the beaten track at least ONCE during your trip to Scotland – because (trust me on this one) these areas are the ones that will be most memorable.

During my first trip to Scotland (you can see the itinerary right here ) my favourite memory was driving to Lochaber to see my ancestor’s castle, Achnacarry .

Packing For Your Scotland Trip

14. Are you wondering what to pack for your trip to Scotland? I’ve written a comprehensive guide on what to pack and wear in Scotland . I include recommendations on what I wear day to day for each season. Give it a read as I cover virtually every topic in this guide!

15. You do NOT need to pack waterproof pants unless you’re planning a multi-day hike or if you’re going hiking in the pouring rain. A rain jacket that covers your bum will be absolutely fine. I’ve written a short guide on the weather in Scotland that discusses how to dress for the rain in Scotland. I also debunk a few Scottish weather myths.

16. Facecloths/washcloths/flannels aren’t something that accommodations provide in Scotland, so if you like to use them be sure to bring some from home. Do not pack disposable washcloths – think of the environment!

Currency and Money In Scotland

17. How much cash should you bring to Scotland? Most places in Scotland accept major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard . American Express isn’t often accepted due to the high fees carriers have to pay.

Contactless payments are the preferred choice in Scotland, and Apple Pay is accepted almost everywhere. It is still worth carrying some cash with you, as there are still some places that accept cash only – usually small, independent shops that are located in remote areas.

It’s also useful to have some cash for tipping or paying for the bus (although contactless is now accepted on many buses in Scotland). I recommend carrying £200 cash at a time, and topping this up whenever you need to by withdrawing money from an ATM.

A note: Always check with your bank to see what they will charge you for withdrawing cash from an ATM in Scotland.

18. Money changers don’t give you a good exchange rate (they have to make money somehow!). If you would like to bring cash with you to Scotland, I recommend going to your bank and purchasing currency there.

Whenever I travel overseas, I just use my credit card and withdraw cash from the first free cash withdrawal ATM I find. There are many free cash withdrawal machines throughout Scotland that will give you a much better exchange rate than a money exchanger or bank.

19. A note on Scottish and English money. You can spend English pounds in Scotland – but you may not be able to spend Scottish pounds in England.

It’s a complicated issue – albeit a stupid one, seeing as both Scotland and England are part of the United Kingdom where the currency is the ‘Great British Pound’ (GBP). Basically, there are three banks that print money in Scotland – the Bank of Scotland, Royal Bank of Scotland and Clydesdale Bank – and England has its own printers.

To save yourself the stress, you can use English pounds everywhere in the UK, but try to only spend Scottish bank notes in Scotland.

You cannot use Euros or USD in either England or Scotland.

Flying To Scotland

20. Book your flights directly with the airline. I use Skyscanner to see which routes are available and which airlines have the better/cheaper deal. Then I go to the airline’s website to book directly. This means that if there are any changes or cancellations to your booking, you can contact the airline directly for a solution, rather than going through third parties.

You can also book flights through a travel agent (they usually book directly through the airline too). Travel agents usually charge a fee to do the booking on your behalf, but they will also deal with the airline on your behalf if there are any issues.

21. Search for flights into Glasgow , Edinburgh , and Inverness . These are the main international airports in Scotland. You can also search for flights into London, and catch the train to Edinburgh, or book an internal flight to one of the Scottish airports. I recommend catching the LNER train and travelling First Class between London and Edinburgh/Glasgow- I love the journey!

Culzean Castle in South West Scotland

22. I recommend booking your travel with the same ticket or airline all the way to your final destination. That way, if there’s a delay and you miss your next flight, the airline will bump you onto the next flight.

Delays and flight cancellations are unfortunately pretty common now, so be prepared if something like this should happen.

23. Pack your valuables and essentials in your carry-on, just in case your luggage is delayed. Be sure to take a photo of the inside of your checked luggage too – in case you need to do an insurance claim for lost luggage.

Finlarig Castle in Killin

24. Try not to stress or worry too much about travelling to Scotland – worry is one of the most pointless emotions because we can never predict the future. To help curb the worry, be as prepared as possible. I believe things happen for a reason – especially delays.

Whenever I’ve experienced a delay in life, it has always been for a reason – delays have allowed me to capture the most beautiful sunsets, meet lifelong friends, and have even better experiences. My first trip to Scotland was cancelled – if this hadn’t happened, I would have never met my husband!

Accommodation in Scotland

25. Should you book your accommodation in advance or wing it? My advice is to always book your accommodation in advance . Covid-19 has changed the way we travel in Scotland, and there is a lot of pent-up demand to travel here. As soon as you know where you’re going, book your accommodation. There are limited choices even when booking 3 months in advance!

26. I use Booking.com to search for accommodation in Scotland. This website has the largest range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering accommodations for Scotland. I will always compare the price on Booking with the accommodation direct and book the better deal/price.

The Border Hotel in the Scottish Borders

27. If booking your accommodation with Booking.com – make the booking on your mobile. They sometimes have mobile-only specials that will save you more money!

28. Top sheets aren’t really a thing in Scotland. A bed usually has a fitted sheet, with the duvet on top, and sometimes an extra blanket for extra warmth. Just go with it.

Food and Drink

A fish supper/fish and chips in Scotland

29. Should you book all your restaurants in advance? In some places – yes. Here are the areas I recommend you pre-book:

• Most restaurants on Friday and Saturday night from May- September (book a couple of weeks or several days in advance)
• Edinburgh (on weekends in the summer in particular) at least 1-2 weeks in advance
• The Witchery By The Castle. This restaurant in Edinburgh is hugely popular with tourists, so I recommend you make a booking one month in advance or earlier to ensure you get a table for dinner. You can make a booking via their website .
• The Isle of Skye during the tourist season (May – September) at least 2 weeks in advance
• Small villages that only have a few restaurants

Don’t go overboard with booking everything – my advice is to book the restaurants that are must-visits for you, and leave some time for you to discover hidden gems on your travels. If you spot somewhere you might like to have dinner during your wanderings, pop in and see if there’s a table available for that night or the following night.

The Witchery By The Castle in Edinburgh

30. Haven’t got a restaurant booking? Try to eat outside the peak times. I’ve secured tables without having a booking at some of Scotland’s most popular restaurants by eating outside the peak times in summer:

• 10am -11.30am for brunch/lunch
• 2.30pm – 4pm for lunch
• 4pm – 6pm for dinner

31. A nice backup plan to have is to visit a local grocery store and pick up some local food from there. Enjoy a picnic in a scenic spot, or take it back to your accommodation (this is when self-catering accommodation comes in handy!).

Kilchoman beach whisky tasting

32. Try the following local Scottish food and drink:

• Full Scottish Breakfast (tattie scones will change your life)
• Steak Pie with Roast Tatties
• Cullen Skink
• Scotch Pies
• Scottish seafood from one of the many seafood restaurants on the coast or the islands
• Fish and Chips
• Scone with jam and clotted cream (in that order)
• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Porridge with whisky (popular on Islay)
• Whisky (try a whisky from each whisky region – Lowland, Highland, Speyside, Islay and Campbeltown).
• Irn Bru (fizzy drink/pop)

A traditional Scottish steak pie is something you must try in Scotland

33. The most common grocery stores you’ll find in Scotland are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Marks and Spencer (M&S) , and Waitrose . Co-op stores (similar to a 7/11, dairy, or corner store) have a good range of basic groceries, and you’ll find these in most towns and villages. Spar is another brand that carries basic groceries.

34. Most of the grocery stores above will have a £3 meal deal, which includes a sandwich, snack and a drink. These are very popular, and great to pick up if you have a long drive or hike planned. Look out for these meal deals in a refrigerated section.

35. The vast majority of pubs and restaurants in Scotland cater to all dietary requirements and will have gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. There are some fantastic vegan restaurants in Scotland – use the Happy Cow app to find vegan-friendly restaurants.

Driving and Transport In Scotland

One of Scotland’s steepest roads – Bealach na Ba

36. Fuel (petrol) is currently priced from £1.55 per litre. Yes, it’s expensive at the moment!

37. If you hold a full driving license from your country of residence you can hire a small vehicle and drive with that license in Scotland. You generally do not need an international driver’s license . If your driver’s license is not in English, you may have to apply for an international driver’s license or have an English translation available.

You can take this quiz you can take to determine if you can drive in Scotland on your current license.

38. I recommend driving for a maximum of three hours a day . Any more than that, and you’ll get bored of being in the car and you won’t see much!

The famous Kylesku Bridge on the North Coast 500

39. Waze and Google Maps are popular driving apps to help you navigate Scotland. They will give you a general idea of how long it takes to get from A to B, but I recommend always giving yourself extra time to reach your destination.

For example, it takes around 3 hours to drive from Edinburgh Airport to Inverness without stopping. If you’d like to stop and see the sights along the way, I would recommend allowing yourself 5-6 hours for the drive and sightseeing along the way. As a general rule, double your driving time if you plan on stopping along your driving route.

If you don’t plan on making any stops, add an extra 15 minutes to every hour it says it will take you to reach your destination. This will allow for traffic, road works and other common delays.

Travel by train in Scotland

40. The roads in Scotland are typically narrower than roads in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Many roads in the countryside or more remote areas are single-lane, and some of the roads are made of shingle!

There are passing places on these single roads – and the rule of thumb is that you should pull into a passing place if it’s on your left. If its located on your right – stop next to it and let the other car pass by driving around you.

A quick wave of thanks is always appreciated if someone stops to let you pass by.

You will have to drive more slowly on these roads, so when looking at a map of Scotland, even though she looks like a small country, it does take you longer to drive to your destination than you’d assume!

For more tips, read this guide on driving in Scotland for the first time .

Did you know that we provide private driving tours in Scotland ? We can organise a day trip or multi-day tour for you and take you wherever you want to go! Visit our website  Kiwi and Haggis Tours  for more information.

The Hop On, Hop Off bus in Edinburgh

41. Car hire gets booked up very quickly due to the high demand for travel to Scotland. The price of car hire has also increased drastically since the pandemic. Be sure to book your car hire well in advance. I recommend Celtic Legend or Auto Europe (a car rental comparison site) for booking your car hire.

42. If you’re using public transport, you can purchase train tickets and bus tickets 3 months in advance.

How To Not Look Like A Tourist In Scotland

43. A note on your Scottish ancestry – some Scots will roll their eyes if you bring up that you’re related to Mary Queen of Scots or Robert the Bruce *.

Some Scots also don’t like it if you claim you’re Scottish, but were born and raised in another country. I’m telling you this so you can be prepared if, in the middle of a conversation, you proudly announce your Scottish heritage and you get a muted response. This has happened to me plenty of times! I don’t take it to heart – I’m proud of my Scottish ancestry, and it’s the reason I became so interested in visiting Scotland in the first place.

I think it’s great that so many people feel passionate about their Scottish heritage and want to visit their ancestral home. This has done wonders for Scottish tourism – and has kept the history and culture alive all around the world. Just don’t expect others to be as excited as you are!

*Fun fact: I actually am related to Robert the Bruce! He’s my 23x great-grandfather and I love visiting areas in Scotland where he once visited.

Sitting next to my 5x great grandfather’s grave in Scotland

44. Don’t make assumptions about the Scots – they don’t all drink whisky, play the bagpipes down at the local pub, speak Gaelic, eat haggis, and travel via standing stones.

Think of it this way – what’s an annoying stereotype from your country? What annoys you about tourists when they visit your country?

Modern Scotland is different from what is marketed around the world. Most Scots will choose beer or wine over whisky, go out for dinner at an Indian/Italian/Chinese restaurant, and jet off to Europe for a sunny holiday.

On the flipside, many Scots are proud of their history, and love to chat about it too – especially those who work in the tourism industry.

Be open-minded when you visit Scotland – learn about modern Scotland too – it’s pretty interesting!

Hanging out on the Isle of Islay

45. I don’t want the above two points to make you feel uneasy about visiting Scotland, because the Scots are some of the kindest, most hospitable people on earth! They have amazing wit, are generous, and love to have a good time.

Try staying in a bed and breakfast, to experience Scottish hospitality at its finest!

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

46. The Scots are passionate about sustainability and looking after the environment – so my advice is to think carefully about what you pack and use during your trip to Scotland. Do not pack or use single-use products, such as make-up wipes, cotton buds, and plastic bottles.

Instead, pack reusable facecloths, a water bottle, reusable shopping bags, and washcloths (or just use your hands!). Please recycle when in Scotland – if you can’t find a recycling bin, just ask a shop, pub, or restaurant if you can use theirs!

For more helpful hints, check out my blog post on tips for sustainable travel in Scotland .

Important, Final Scotland Travel Tips

47. Join my Facebook group, Scotland Travel Tips , if you haven’t already. There is plenty of helpful information to help you plan your trip in this group – be sure to use the search function to find information on the area you want to visit.

48. If you’d like a shortcut to planning your Scotland trip, I created the Ultimate Scotland Travel Bundle which contains an eBook, 70-page printable planner, and 7 must-see Scotland travel planners which list all the must-sees in Scotland’s major tourist destinations. It will save you hours and hours of searching the internet (and wading through misinformation!).

49. My most comprehensive product for Scotland planning is my Planning A Trip To Scotland course . This course features over 70 videos and covers every aspect of planning your trip- from creating your itinerary, to booking your trip, learning how to get around using public transport, money saving tips, travel inspiration and so much more! I created it with my friend and Lonely Planet Scotland writer, Kay from The Chaotic Scot. Between us, there is nothing we don’t know about Scotland travel!

👉 Buy the Planning A Trip To Scotland course

Carrick Castle, a hidden gem in the Cowal Peninsula

50. And finally – have a great time in Scotland! I have a saying, and that is it’s impossible to plan a bad trip to Scotland .

After reading this article, you now know the most common questions that travellers ask – so you are already equipped with some solid knowledge on travelling to Scotland!

Try not to stress if you don’t get everything ticked off your bucket list, or if your flight is delayed – Scotland has a magical way of bringing you into the present moment and enjoying what’s in front of you.

Have an amazing time in Scotland, and please share this article if you found it useful!

Are there any tips you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below and help out your fellow travellers!

This is the seventh and final article in my Planning A Trip to Scotland series . Sign up here to have the whole series emailed to you.

Related posts

Vickie Wyatt

Saturday 16th of March 2024

Congratulations on new baby, seeing Scotland has been a life long dream, I’ve never traveled except neighboring states and we drove, it is a gift from my nephew and we are traveling together. And driving in Scotland. I too have Scott ancestry paternal 2 x great grandfather James Bankhead. During my travel research I was surprised at how many places and areas called Bankhead,the only thing I know is most family were miners including my dad Roy Bankhead was a coal miner, but I’m not doing any ancestry research I just want to see Scotland, I’m so happy to have this opportunity I don’t care if we have any hiccups. We have a few places I want to see but the rest is whatever we decide to see.

Wednesday 18th of October 2023

Thanks for the tips........these will come in handy when make plans.

Frenney Olivia Lobo

Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Hi Yvette, very informative article and Scotland is a very welcoming and beautiful country - greenery, clean air, clean roads, clean everything. I would like to add a point here as I am guessing this article is from covid times. I travelled to Scotland in Sep. 2023 from Dubai, UAE to Aberdeen airport.

My friends in Scotland told me that Scottish currency notes are accepted in England too now (worth a check). I was skeptical of bringing Scottish currency to UAE for exchange however I was also able to exchange it at the exchange house (though not at the Dubai airport) and got the same exchange rate as GBP sterling.

To travel by train and book tickets I used the "train app" and it came very handy, hassle free and paper free.

To the edible must try list you could also add the fruit jams with whisky, gin or champagne and the fruit flavoured delectable homemade gins from the distillery (I got from Stirling Distillery)

Scotland is very beautiful and anyone who loves nature, tranquility and the countryside would quickly fall in love with this place. Hope to visit again - “Haste ye back”

Warm regards,

Saturday 14th of January 2023

Hi I'm coming over this April I want to see as much as I can in the month I'm there

Laura Weems (Clan Wemyss)

Thursday 1st of September 2022

I absolutely love your blog! Is there a way to follow it, get email updates, etc? Thank you!

Yvette Webster

Monday 5th of September 2022

Aww thank you- you certainly can, the best thing to do is sign up to my newsletter: wayfaringkiwi.com/sign-up/ xx

Hi Laura, I give regular updates on my Facebook page and Instagram account (instagram.com/wayfaringkiwi11) and I also send out regular Scotland newsletters! You can sign up for that here: wayfaringkiwi.com/sign-up/

Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

One Week in Scotland | Travel Itinerary and Guide

7-Day Scotland Travel Itinerary and Travel Guide

Isolated. Rugged. Beautiful. The vast and barren landscape of Scotland is famous throughout the world for its incredible, natural beauty. If you are taking a trip to Scotland and are wanting to experience the solitude of the highlands, as well as learn the fascinating history and culture of the locals, then this is the perfect 7-day itinerary to Scotland.

Starting the journey off in the vibrant capital of Edinburgh, this Scotland road trip takes you north through the ancient forests of the Cairngorms, along the still waters of Loch Ness and onwards to the dramatic skyline of the Isle of Skye, which is also one of the Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe . From here, we head south along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and finish off the trip in Scotland’s cultural capital, the city of Glasgow.

An adventure filled with learning the history and mythology of the land, tasting a few drams of Scotland’s whisky and marvelling at the dramatic and ancient landscape of the highlands. This 7 Day trip to Scotland is going to be a trip to remember, so let’s go!

PS – Before you head to Scotland and discover the beauty of the Top Sights and Attractions in Scotland,  during your 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary , as  listed below, check out these 20+ Travel Hacks and Resources , that will elevate your Travel experience to a different level all together.

Edinburgh Castle

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What better place is there to start this road trip than a day out in Edinburgh ,  Scotland’s capital city. Filled with some of Scotland’s most significant, historical buildings and stories, the capital is a buzzing metropolis that will leave you begging for more.

Kicking off our epic Scotland road trip in the vibrant, buzzing and historical city of Edinburgh, let’s begin with a sunrise at one of the Most Famous Landmarks in Edinburgh – the Edinburgh Castle. If you walk along the Royal Mile to the foreground of the castle you will be treated to magnificent views over the surrounding city and countryside. 

The castle itself is open from 9.30am on most days, so if you are an early bird you might want to head back into town to grab a bite to eat before returning to learn the fascinating history of the castle. We recommend the Hula Juice Bar, which can be found just 5-minutes away at the bottom of Victoria Street.

Once the castle is open you can take a full tour of the fascinating history and the stories it has to tell. Entrance will cost a fee and includes a free, 30-minute guided tour of the castle and the grounds. We recommend that you buy tickets online, as they are a couple of pounds cheaper than at the gates.

The next stop from the castle is just a 5-minute walk away and is one that you may have already visited. Incredibly photogenic and lined with quirky and interesting shops to browse, the sloping road of Victoria Street is actually the most photographed street in Scotland. Featured in movies such as The Avengers, this street is constantly bustling with tourists browsing the shops and attempting to get a photo. 

If you do wish to get an isolated photo on this street, your best bet is to head here first thing in the morning, otherwise, you can visit at any time of the day and check out the shops. It is believed that this street and the tiny, quirky shops are the main inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. 

It may be for this reason then that there is a full shop dedicated to the magical world, selling a huge range of HP souvenirs and trinkets. Browse the shop and decide which magic wand is the best fit for you before we move onto our next stop. 

Head back to the top of Victoria Street and take the quick walk along to the statue of Grefriar’s Bobby. This small statue is dedicated to the memory of the fiercely loyal Skye Terrier, whose partner was a man named John Gray. The story of this small dog is a real tear-jerker and is the inspiration of many children’s movies across the world.

When John Gray passed away in 1858, it is said that his faithful companion spent the next 14 years of its life guarding his grave. This little dog then sadly passed away in 1872 at the old age of 16 and was forever cemented in history with the story of this love and dedication.

It is believed that if you give the dog’s nose a gentle tap it will bring you good luck, however, due to people rubbing too hard the statue is losing its coating on the nose. When you visit the Greyfriar’s Bobby be sure to protect the statue by only touching the nose lightly.

It is time to finish off your first day in Edinburgh at the city’s most stunning sunset point, Calton Hill. Situated right in the centre of Edinburgh, Calton Hill is a UNESCO Heritage Sight , complete with museums and monuments to Edinburgh’s rich history. 

The panoramic view from the top of Calton Hill provides a fantastic view of the city centre of Edinburgh, as well as a view reaching as far as the sea on the eastern coast of Scotland. This is a very popular sunset spot in Edinburgh and is a fantastic way to rub shoulders with tourists and locals alike. 

Relax at the top of Calton Hill and enjoy a sunset to remember to finish off your first day of this Scotland road trip. Don’t stay up too late, however, as we have another long day tomorrow!

There is a huge range of accommodation choices in Edinburgh, so no matter what your taste of comfort is there will be something for you. Our top recommendation, in this Scotland Travel Guide , for a mid-range and comfortable place to stay will be the Haymarket Hub Hotel , which is located just a 15-minute walk west of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.

Day Two – Stirling 

Heading north from Edinburgh across the famous Forth Road Bridge, our next stop, in this 7 Day Scotland Itinerary, will be the heartland capital of Stirling. This historical city was once the main trading point between the northern hills of the highlands and the lowlands of Scotland. 

Visit the historical Stirling Castle and enjoy the stunning views of the town centre of Stirling and the surrounding countryside. Entry to the castle will cost a fee, which allows you to explore the internal structure of the castle walls and learn about the many kings and queens that once lived here. 

From Stirling Castle, head to the outskirts of Stirling town centre and visit the towering Wallace Monument. This beautiful structure was built in the 19th century in memory of the historically significant figure, William Wallace. 

This 11th-century soldier played a huge part in the Wars of Scottish Independence and was responsible for the huge victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where he used tactics and wit to defeat a much larger English army.

You can enter the monument itself and climb to the top, visiting the multiple exhibitions along the way, and enjoy the best view of Stirling from the top. If you do not wish to pay another entrance fee, the walk to the top of the hill is completely free and has information points along the way as well. 

Next, it is time to head back into the town centre of Stirling and visit the ancient Church of Holy Rude. Dating back 900 years, this is one of the oldest buildings in Scotland, however, we are here to enjoy the view that lies behind the church in the graveyard. 

As you walk through the peace and quiet of the graveyard, head to the highest point and discover the best sunset spot in Stirling. There is a bench here for you to sit and enjoy the stunning view of Stirling Castle and the distant mountains of the Scottish highlands. That is tomorrow’s destination, but for tonight it is time to relax and get some rest.

The best place to rest your head in Stirling that is both affordable and comfortable is at the Lost Guest House in Stirling’s town centre. This is just a short walk from the bars and restaurants of this vibrant and student orientated town.

Day Three – Cairngorms National Park

Continuing our journey north, we enter the mountainous region of the Scottish highlands and the ancient forests of the Cairngorms National Park, which is also one of the Best National Parks in the UK . The main point that we will be basing our day’s adventures from will be the central hub of Aveimore. 

This small village has expanded rapidly over the last few years as it is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to base themselves and explore the surrounding countryside. 

Driving 30-minutes out of Aviemore towards the Cairngorm mountains, you will reach the large body of water known as Loch Morlich. This is a hugely popular spot for all kinds of watersports, from kayaking to sailing, to simply going for a swim (if you are brave enough). 

It is up to you if you wish to brave the cold, fresh waters of the loch, or if you simply want to enjoy a walk along its peaceful shoreline. There is a watersports hub that lies on the beach at the far end of the loch from Aveimore, which rents out watersport equipment and even has a cafe with a view. 

Continuing past Loch Morlich away from Aviemore, you will eventually begin the climb up the winding road to the Cairngorm Ski Centre. In the winter, this is the perfect spot to come and enjoy a range of snowsports, from skiing and snowboarding, to wild ice climbing and even sledging. 

The view from the car park is the main reason we are visiting today, sitting high above the ancient Rothiemurchus forest below. Park up here and you can either sit and admire the view, or if you have the appropriate hiking equipment (map, compass, and experience using them), you can head to the hills and enjoy a walk. 

Once you have finished in the great outdoors of the Cairngorm mountains, head back into the village of Aviemore for your next stop, the Cairngorm Brewery. Situated at the northern side of Aviemore, we recommend you drop your vehicle off at your accommodation and walk to the brewery. This will allow you to enjoy the tasting sessions that are included in the tour. 

The brewery tour is a paid experience that must be booked in advance. It involves a guided tour of the brewery process, as well as an in-depth tale of the brewery’s history and story by an experienced and passionate worker. The tour then finishes with a tasting session, where you can try all of the different ales and lagers that are made and bottled fresh in the brewery.

Once you have tasted the local produce, we recommend you head to the nearest pub and have a couple more of your favourite bottles of beer at the Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore’s centre. This is also our top recommendation, in this Scotland Travel Blog, for accommodation in Aviemore, being comfortable, central and not overly expensive.

Day Four – Inverness and the North

Continuing north from Aviemore, our next destination, on this 7 day Scotland Itinerary, is the city of Inverness , the final frontier before the remote highlands of North Scotland. Its a day of whisky tasting and monster hunting for us.

No trip to Scotland is complete without trying its world-famous produce, Scotch Whisky. As you head north from Aviemore, the first distillery you encounter is the remote and rugged Tomatin Distillery.

Out of all the whisky tours we have done, it is here that our favourite has been. This is partly due to the raw and unaltered process tour you receive, unpolished and more realistic compared with others, but also because of the history and remoteness that the distillery enjoys. 

As you walk around the dusty and rugged process, smell the ingredients and imagine what life would have been like working here in the 19th-century.

The tour finishes as per usual on distillery tours, with a tasting sample of the finished product of the distillery. If you are driving you should obviously not taste it, however, if you bring a hip flask you can decant it to try later. 

Upon reaching the small city of Inverness, the most prominent feature you will see is the red-stone Inverness Castle that sits on the banks of the River Ness. This castle is not open for public admission, however, there is a viewing platform at the top that is accessible to the public. 

With increasing pressure from the public to open the castle to visitors, this may well change in the coming years. 

As we swing west and begin our journey along the banks of Loch Ness, now is the perfect time to keep your eyes peeled for this mystical beast. In case you haven’t heard, the Loch Ness Monster is a fabled sea monster that is believed to hide in the depths of this sea loch. With many reported (yet mostly all debunked) sightings over the years, no one truly knows if this giant exists. Maybe you can catch a glimpse of the monster and go down in history?

The most photographed castle in Scotland is our next stopping point on this Scotland road trip. The castle of Eilean Donan sits at the meeting point of Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long, and has been the set of multiple Hollywood movies , such as James Bond. 

The history of the castle stems back to the times of the Vikings when this area was used as a stronghold to defend against Viking invasions. Today, it is a very popular tourist attraction and can be rented out for special occasions such as weddings. 

You can explore the grounds and internals of the castle with a paid admission, or you can admire the view of the castle and the surroundings for free from the car park at the “All the Goodness” coffee shop that lies on the other side of the bridge.

For tonight we will be heading on to the small harbour town of Portree on the Isle of Skye, ready for a bright and early start tomorrow. We recommend the cheap, cosy, and central accommodation of the Portree Hotel.  

Day Five – Isle of Skye 

As the small town of Portree comes to life, we recommend you pack a hot drink and head down to the colourful harbour to watch the world come to life. Fishing boats will begin to head in and out and the morning sun will slowly bring the world to life. A very peaceful spot to start off an exciting and busy day.

Driving north onto the Trotternish Peninsula of Skye , our first stop is just outside the small village of Uig at the mystical Fairy Glen, which is one of the best things to do in Isle of Skye . We recommend driving along the northern coast of the island and admiring the coastal views all along this route. The roads are small and winding, so take your time and enjoy the view. 

The Fairy Glen is situated just outside Uig and can be reached by either driving or catching a local bus. There is limited parking, so you may need to catch the bus if you are not early. 

The Fairy Glen is named after the magical and other-worldly landscape that it has and not to do with any fairy folklore. This dramatic and sweeping glen is actually the result of an ancient landslide that happened here thousands of years ago. 

When you visit the Fairy Glen we ask that you are conscious of where you walk and do not venture from the path. The footsteps of the thousands of tourists that visit this beautiful part of Skye every year has had a devastating effect on the natural landscape. In order to prevent further erosion, it is important to stick to the path and DO NOT move rocks or stones. 

Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories.

As you drive back towards the eastern coast of the Trotternish Peninsula, there is a shorter route that takes you across the mountains instead of around the coast. This route is only open during good weather conditions and is not suitable for large vehicles. 

The Quiraing is another example of an ancient landslide shaping the dramatic landscape of Skye. Once you reach the sharp drop of the Quiraing pass, park up your car ad take the quick walk across to the viewpoint. Take care here as the path is slippery and the drop is steep with no safety barriers. 

Our last stop on the Trotternish Peninsula and the Isle of Skye , is the hike to see the Old Man of Storr . This pretty trek, although only 45-minutes to an hour-long, is pretty demanding, as it ascends steeply up the mountainside. 

The car park for the Old Man of Storr is the noticeable area on your right-hand side as you head south to Portree. From here, there are two viewpoints for the Old Man of Storr, one around 45-minutes from the car park and a higher up one around 1 ½ hrs from the car park. If the weather is good, the view from the upper platform is simply spectacular, spanning all the way across to mainland Scotland.

The Old Man of Storr is once again the result of an ancient landslide that shaped the mountainous region of Skye. Over thousands of years, the harsh climate of Skye has shaped and moulded the mountainside to form a collection the standing stones that you see today. The Old Man is the largest of the stones and gets its name from the face-like features it has that are said to resemble an old man’s.

Heading south from the Old Man of Storr, the best place to spend tonight is once again in the small harbour town of Portree. We recommend spending another night at the Portree Hotel before we begin our journey south tomorrow morning. 

Day Six – Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

We begin our journey south by passing through one of our favourite places in the world: the isolated wilderness of Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. As you drive through these deserted glens you are truly in the presence of giants, with towering mountains all around and a sense of real mythology about the area. 

Our first stop is at the Three Sisters viewpoint, where you can get out and stretch your legs. As you walk from the car park and down the steep hill into the glen, think about how the surrounding beauty came to be millions of years ago. 

The Three Sisters are the trio of mountains that lie before you on the right as you drive through Glen Coe. These are three extinct volcanoes that played a massive role in how the landscape of today was formed.

Pulling in on the left towards the grand outline of the Kingshouse Hotel, it is time to introduce yourself to some of the locals in this region. One of the most unique experiences, that you will have in your Scotland road trip awaits!

The Kingshouse Hotel is a popular stopping off point due to the herd of friendly deer that tends to spend time in this area. These deer are so accustomed to human contact that they will come right up to you to say hello. 

Sadly, this comfort comes from the years of humans interfering with wildlife and feeding the deer of this area. This has happened so much that these deer are now completely reliant on humans for survival and depend on us feeding them and their fawn.

It is too late for these deer, however, please let this be a reminder as to why we should not interfere with wildlife and why we should not feed wild animals.

As you reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, our first stop is roughly halfway down its western coast so admire the view and take care of the winding roads. At the Inveruglus Visitor Centre , just before the hydro station on your right, pull in and get out to stretch your legs. This is the spot of Loch Lomond’s most epic viewpoint, the Inveruglus Pyramid, which is also known as An Ceann Mor.

This 8-metre tall viewing platform was installed in 2015 and offers the finest view of Loch Lomond from the top. The platform has a free-to-use telescope at the top and custom fitted seats for people to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Scotland’s largest loch.

As the sun begins to set, it is up to you whether you wish to relax on the banks of Loch Lomond or continue down to Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow. It is here we will be spending the night, ready to get up nice and early for our final day in Scotland. 

For your first night in Glasgow, you are once again spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. For a reliable, cheap and comfortable stay, we recommend Motel One , which is located right beside Glasgow Central Station and is perfect for getting around the city.

Day Seven – Glasgow

It’s our last day of this Scotland road trip and we are back to the buzz of the big city. Not to worry, this final day in Glasgow’s city centre is sure to be one to remember, so let’s get going!

Kicking the last day off, of this 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary, with our last sunrise in Scotland, it is time to discover Glasgow’s best sunrise spot: the Queen’s Park Flagpole. You can easily reach here by either catching the first train from Glasgow Central to Queens Park, or by making the 45-minute walk south from the centre.

As the smoking chimneys and towering abbeys of the city slowly come into view, the city begins to buzz into life. Chill out here for a little while and enjoy the view over Glasgow and prepare yourself for the final day of this epic one week trip to Scotland.

Once the day has well and truly began, it is time to head back into the city centre and discover the many beautiful street art murals that are spread around the city. In total, there are currently 29 different murals across the centre of Glasgow , a list that is constantly changing and growing. 

If you wish, it is possible to pay for a guided tour of the city’s street art , or you can simply follow the official map of the current mural trails and discover them for yourself.  

Rounding off our Scotland road trip with a bang, it is time to check out Glasgow’s best panoramic viewpoint , which is situated right in the centre of the city. Just off Buchannan Street is a small exhibition centre known as The Lighthouse. Mainly featuring the work of Scotland’s best architects, The Lighthouse has an ever-changing exhibit of different pieces of work. 

Once you have browsed the multiple exhibitions, head to the Charles Rennie Mackintosh exhibit and climb the spiralling staircase to the top of the tower. Here you can head outside into the narrow balcony and walk around the circular tower to admire the beauty of the city centre from all directions. 

This is our favourite place to admire the sunset or late evening in Glasgow and is the best place not only to finish off your final day in Scotland, but also be the last destination on this One Week Scotland Travel Itinerary.

Day 1 – Trip Starts in Edinburgh | Edinburgh City Tour

Day 2 – Edinburgh – Stirling | Stirling Castle | Wallace Monument

Day 3 – Stirling – Aveimore | Cairngorms National Park

Day 4 – Aveimore – Inverness | Castle of Inverness | Scotch Whiskey Distillery Tour

Day 5 – Isle of Sky | Old Man of Storr

Day 6 – Three Sisters Viewpoint | Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Day 7 – Trip Ends in Glasgow

Tips and Recommendations for Your Scotland Road Trip

Before you set off on your Scotland adventure, following this 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary , here are some  tips and Travel Hacks that you should know to make your One Week Trip to Scotland a little smoother. 

Scotland is a country that is famous for its weather (or more specifically, lack of GOOD weather). As you head north to the mountainous region of Scotland, the humid Atlantic winds precipitate easily over the highlands and rain is a very common occurence. On average, it rains in Scotland 250 days of the year. 

That being said, the period of time when it is LEAST likely to rain is during the late Spring months of May and June. During this time, the warmer weather begins to show and the native bugs have not quite come out to bite yet. It is for this reason that we suggest that Spring is the best time to visit Scotland .

As mentioned before, Scotland is famous for its rain, so the most important item of clothing you pack is a good waterproof jacket (and possibly trousers). As for temperatures in Scotland, it rarely ever reaches above 25 degrees Centigrade, so warm clothes are recommended. The average seasonal temperatures can be found below:

Spring (March, April, May) – 5-10 degrees C

Summer (June, July, August) – 15 degrees C

Autumn (September, October, November) – 5-10 degrees C

Winter (December, January, February) – 0-5 degrees C

The best way to pack for this variation of temperatures is by packing plenty of light clothing that can be worn as layers. This will allow you to layer up or strip off as necessary.

If you are touring the highlands of Scotland and plan on sticking to this One Week Scotland Travel Itinerary, then the only real way to navigate these remote regions is in a private vehicle. The best part is that you can rent a car very easily, as all you need to do is check out the best rental car suitable for you on Discover Cars , or RentalCars.com . There are transport links connecting most of Scotland, however, these will not be adequate for reaching remote locations and will take much longer than by private vehicle.

Renting a Car 

The first and cheapest method of transport we recommend is to rent a car for the duration of your trip. Cars can be rented from a number of different UK based car rental companies, such as Hertz or Europcar. A car rental will cost you roughly £10-30 per day , depending on the cover and vehicle you choose. 

If you wish to be a little more adventurous and save money on accommodation then a motorhome might be the best choice for you. Motorhomes are hugely popular when exploring the highlands and there are therefore plenty of companies to choose from. 

We have personally used the motorhome rental company Bunk Campers and can recommend them as friendly, cheap and reliable. A campervan will cost you from £45 a day and will vary depending on your choice of van and the season in which you book it.

If you are visiting Scotland and only have limited time to explore its amazing history and scenery then this 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary is perfect for you. There is so much more to see and do in Scotland and you could spend months exploring the bonnie lands, yet still have room for more. 

There is no doubt that once you set foot in the highlands of Scotland and feel the fresh breeze, you are going to fall in love with the beauty of Scotland. It will only be a matter of time before you are back again for more, and when you do, you will be welcomed back with open arms. 

We hope you found this 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary , to be of help to you, as a reliable Travel Resource for planning your Trip to Scotland . Don’t forget to Pin these images, and save this One Week Scotland Travel Itinerary, for future travel planning.

If you enjoyed reading this 7 Day Scotland Itinerary and Travel Guide , you might want to check out some other 7 Day Travel Guides and Itineraries , as well.

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• One Week in Crete | Greece – Travel Itinerary and Travel Guide
• 7 Days in Israel – A Detailed Travel Itinerary
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Gemma and Campbell are two Scots on the run from a 9-5 lifestyle.   After years of planning, they finally quit their jobs and set out to find their place in this beautiful world.

Currently in Australia, they are living in a camper van and touring the epic Australian coastlines , which shows just how much they love adventure travel. They love promoting this kind of travel to their fellow wanderlusters on their blog.

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19 Essential Scotland Travel Tips to Read Before Your First Visit

If you are a frequent traveler and an English speaker, visiting Scotland is pretty easy (although driving in Scotland can still be a little hair-raising.) However, if you are a bit nervous about your trip and want to make sure you have all your ducks in a row, be sure to read these Scotland travel tips before you go!

I have visited Scotland twice, once on a solo trip to Edinburgh and another as a Scotland road trip with friends (thank you Keryn for being an awesome driver!) and I’ve learned and experienced so much that I want to share with anyone planning their first trip to Scotland. 

My Top Scotland Travel Tips

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Language 

English is the official language in the United Kingdom and the dominant language in Scotland. There are still those that speak Scots in the Lowlands or Scottish Gaelic in the Highlands, but getting around Scotland is no problem for English speakers — although you may need to listen closely to understand those with a heavy Scottish accent.

As part of the United Kingdom, Scotland uses the British Pound (£). Scotland actually has its own pound notes but you can use English bills as well.

Almost all restaurants, shops, and parking machines take chip-enabled credit cards and/or digital payments such as Apple Pay. However, you will need coins for some parking machines and coins or small bills for tips or small purchases. I’d recommend either requesting small bills from your local bank before you leave or visiting an ATM when you arrive.

If you are wondering how much money you need, be sure to read my post on how much a Scotland trip costs .

Tipping is not the same as in the U.S.. In many instances, service is included at restaurants. If you are paying by card and want to leave a tip, you need to let the server know to add it before you tap your card. For sit-down restaurants, a 10-15 percent gratuity is appropriate but not necessary. At casual cafes, you can leave a few coins or round up your bill.

Scotland uses 230 voltage and you will need a three-pronged adapter with a G-type plug, which is different from most of Europe. If your appliance or device has a dual voltage power supply (which you can usually check by looking on the label or manual), you only need a plug adapter. Dual voltage devices can automatically switch between 120V and 230V.

However, if your device does not have a dual voltage power supply, you will need a voltage converter. It’s important to choose a voltage converter that is powerful enough for your device. The wattage of your device will be listed on the label.

Car Rentals

If you plan on renting a car, be sure to book months or weeks in advance for better pricing and availability, especially if you want a car with an automatic transmission. Try to book the smallest car that will fit your luggage and one that has a back up camera. I’d also suggest getting full insurance. I typically use Auto Europe to compare rates from different vendors. International driving permits are NOT required in Scotland. You can drive on your domestic license for up to one year.

Driving in Scotland

In the United Kingdom, including Scotland, cars drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you are not familiar with driving on the left, it takes close concentration and focus, especially when navigating the country’s many rotaries. Remember to “stay left, look right.” Traffic already on the roundabout has priority, so give way to vehicles approaching from your right. Enter when there’s a safe gap, and indicate your intended exit as you approach it.

Outside of the highways, many interior roads in the Highlands or islands are single lane roads. When you encounter a car coming the other way, one of you needs to pull into the closest pull out designed for passing. This may require backing up to the closest pull out. 

Remember to keep an eye out for wildlife, especially sheep, that tend to wander into the roads in the backcountry.

Be sure to follow all the local laws, including speed limits to avoid fines. Scotland has strict drink-driving laws with a lower alcohol limit than many other countries so don’t risk it.

You will need to pay for parking at most car parks for attractions and towns, including trailheads for popular hikes or natural attractions. I’d recommend taking a photo of your license plate as often you will need to enter this into the parking meter machine when paying for parking. In other instances, you will need to “pay and display”, which means pay for your parking in advance based on how much time you think you will need and then place the receipt in your windshield window.

Most parking meters take credit cards but there are some that will only accept coins so it makes sense to carry coins with you or keep some in the car. Just don’t try to use one receipt from one parking area at another, even if you are still within the original time window. Each receipt is marked with a lot number and they will check (trust me, I learned the hard way and parking tickets are expensive!)

When you are in the Highlands or the Islands, petrol stations are few and far between so be sure to fuel up when you can and don’t push it too low.

Public Toilets

You can typically find public toilets at popular tourist attractions (even natural attractions such as the Fairy Pools.) However, some of these are pay toilets. This is another reason to carry some coins, although many of these are also tap and go using digital payments. But just because these are paid, doesn’t mean they are well-supplied or exceptionally clean. So carry some extra tissue and sanitizer just in case.

When in Scotland, you need to be prepared for all sorts of weather no matter when you visit. During the summer months, the average temperatures are a high of 59-63°F (15-17°C) and lows are between 47-52°F (8-11°C).

In the winter, temperatures drop to 41-45°F (5-7°C) with lows of 32-37°F (0-3°C). Keep in mind that Scotland has a wet and cool climate, with a fair amount of wind. The rainiest months are in the winter with an average rainfall around 4 inches per month.

While regional variations exist, coastal areas are generally warmer and less rainy than inland regions and The Highlands experience slightly lower temperatures and higher rainfall than the Lowlands.

As I wrote about in my Scotland packing list , you need to be prepared when traveling to Ireland. Wind and water proof clothing including a rain coat, rain pants, and waterproof shoes. It is very important to dress in layers. Don’t forget the basics including a hat, gloves, sunglasses, and an umbrella. 

Hotel Reservations

Outside of the cities, the accommodations in towns and smaller cities such as Inverness, accommodations can be limited. It is important to book hotel rooms or vacation rentals at least a few months in advance. This is especially true in popular spots like the Isle of Skye. (See my Scotland road trip itinerary to get recommendations on where to stay.)

Restaurant Reservations 

In popular destinations such as Inverness, Isle of Skye, or Glencoe, it is also important to make dinner reservations and keep an eye on the hours and days places are open as many restaurants close by 8:00 p.m. in smaller towns. 

While in Scotland, be sure to try some Scottish specialties such as:

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties: The iconic national dish of Scotland, haggis is a savory sausage traditionally made from sheep’s heart, liver, lungs, and oatmeal, encased in the sheep’s stomach lining. Served with mashed turnips (“neeps”) and potatoes (“tatties”), it’s a hearty and flavorful way to experience Scottish culinary heritage. It took me a while to try this specialty but I ended up liking it because it tastes much more of the spices used in creating it than the meat itself.

Cullen Skink: Originating from Cullen on the Moray Firth, this a warn, creamy soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk, and typically served with crusty bread for dipping. This is a must-try in coastal areas, especially around Moray and Aberdeenshire, but I had a delicious version in Glasgow.

Scotch Pies: Savory pastries filled with minced meat and onions, Scotch pies are a popular handheld snack or lunch option. The filling can vary from classic minced beef to adventurous varieties like venison or chicken balmoral.

Shortbread: A crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth biscuit made with butter, sugar, and flour, shortbread is a Scottish sweet treat synonymous with tea time. Enjoy plain shortbread for its pure deliciousness, or find versions infused with flavors like chocolate, ginger, or even whisky. I’m a big fan of the millionaires shortbread, which is layered with caramel and chocolate.

Sticky Toffee Pudding: Sticky toffee pudding is a gooey dessert consisting of a light and moist sponge cake, often infused with dates or ginger, nestled in a rich, sticky toffee sauce. It’s typically served warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. While the origins of sticky toffee pudding are disputed, Scotland has a strong claim to fame, thanks to the Udny Arms Hotel in Aberdeenshire. They boast of creating the iconic dessert back in the 1960s.

Fish and Chips: While the dish may not have originated in Scotland, their contribution to its evolution and continued popularity is undeniable. Fish and chips are a staple of Scottish cuisine and culture, just as much as they are in the rest of the UK.

Deep-Fried Mars Bars:  I was really shocked when I asked locals about famous foods and they told me about deep-fried Mars bars that are battered and deep-fried until golden and enjoyed after the pub.

Scotch Whisky: The undisputed king of Scottish drinks, whisky (not called Scotch in Scotland) is steeped in history and tradition. With its distinct smoky flavor and wide variety of regional styles, it’s a must-try for any visitor. Explore peaty Islay drams, floral Highland expressions, or Speyside’s fruity whiskies. Just remember that whiskey spelled with an -ey refers to Irish whiskey.

Irn-Bru: This bright orange carbonated beverage is often called Scotland’s “other national drink.” Its unique flavor is hard to describe but I found it something of a cross between orange soda and bubble gum. Bottom line, it is excessively sweet.

Scottish Gin: Scotland’s gin scene is booming, with distilleries across the country creating unique and flavorful expressions. Expect botanical notes inspired by the Scottish landscape, like juniper, heather, and berries. My friend Keryn came back with at least a dozen little bottles to sample the various flavors!

Ferries 

If you plan on visiting any of the islands by car and want to take a ferry, you will need to book a timed ticket in advance. 

Attractions

Some attractions such as the Royal Tattoo, Edinburgh Castle tickets, or popular tours can sell out in the busy season so you should book your tickets in advance. As I mentioned in my Edinburgh itinerary, I would also suggest going to popular attractions such as the Edinburgh Castle early in the morning when it first opens. 

Best Time to Visit

The most popular time to visit Scotland is during July and August, especially during festivals such as the Fringe Festival, events like the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Highland Games, and Ceilidh at the Castle with live traditional music and dancing in Edinburgh Castle.

In terms of weather, June brings pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours (when I was there in late June/early July the sun didn’t set until nearly 11:00 p.m.. September is still warm enough (it was actually quite warm the year I was there in early September), and you will also find beautiful autumn foliage and fewer crowds than peak summer.

May offers springtime charm with blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and no midges (tiny biting insects!). Not as sunny as summer, but less crowded.

Know Some History 

When you are visiting castles and historic sites such as the Culloden Battlefield , it helps to know some basic Scottish history. I was really surprised to see how front of mind what seems like distant history can still be, such as a friendship with the French that goes back to old alliances with France against the English. 

To brush up on your Scottish history before you visit, here are some books, movies, and shows you may want to enjoy.

Things to Watch:

• Braveheart (1995):  While not historically accurate, it’s a classic epic film depicting the life of William Wallace, a Scottish rebel leader, and gives insight into the Scottish Wars of Independence in the 13th century.
• Outlaw King (2018):  A more grounded portrayal of Robert the Bruce, another key figure in Scotland’s fight for independence from English rule.
• Mary Queen of Scots (2018):  Explores the tumultuous reign and rivalry between Mary, Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I of England, shedding light on complex political and religious tensions of the 16th century.
• Rob Roy (1995):  A fictionalized but entertaining account of the life of Rob Roy MacGregor, a Scottish clan chief and folk hero in the 18th century.
• Outlander (2014-present):  This popular TV series follows a 20th-century nurse who travels back in time to 1743 Scotland, immersing viewers in the Jacobite rebellion and Highland life.
• Monarch of the Glen (2000-2005):  A charming drama about a family running a deer farm in the Scottish Highlands, showcasing the beauty of the landscape and rural traditions.
• Secrets of the Clans (2008-2010):  Explores the history and traditions of various Scottish clans.
• Wild Scotland (2014):  Stunning natural history documentary capturing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Scotland.

Things to Read:

• Outlander by Diana Gabaldon:  A sprawling series blending romance, time travel, and historical intrigue in 18th-century Scotland during the Jacobite rebellion.
• Wolf of the North by William McIlvanney:  A gritty portrayal of Viking-era Scotland through the eyes of a warrior battling for survival against invaders and internal power struggles.
• The Flame Bearer by Kathleen Winsor:  A sweeping historical saga following the Bruce family and their fight for Scottish independence from England.
• Redcoats by Neil Oliver:  A thrilling account of the Battle of Culloden from the perspective of both Highland fighters and British soldiers.
• Sunset Song by Lewis Grassic Gibbon:  A poignant and tragic novel depicting the harsh realities of rural life in 19th-century Scotland, focusing on a woman’s struggles and resilience.
• The Last Summer by Karen Swan : In 1930, the residents of small St. Kilda are relocated to mainland Scotland.

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: January 18, 2024

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

19 Apr, 2021

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

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

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

Why Plan a Trip to Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s dive into some Scotland trip planning details.

Let an Expert Plan Your Trip to Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning a road trip around Scotland?

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for a Scotland Trip

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

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

Good Walking Boots

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

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

Waterproof Clothing

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

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

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

At Least One Fancy Outfit!

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

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

Cell Phone (& Charger & Converter)

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

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

Warm and Cool Clothing

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

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

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

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

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

Choosing Where to Go in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Add Castles to Your Scotland Trip Planning!

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

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

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

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

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

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50 Scotland Travel Tips For An Unforgettable Trip

Last Updated on March 16, 2024

On my first visit to Scotland, there was so much that I didn’t know when I arrived. SO. MUCH. And as I scrolled through my Scotland content, wondering what else you guys would need to plan a perfect trip, I was dumbfounded that I had not written any Scotland travel tips?! SO, here I am, presenting a whopping FIFTY tips that will help you traverse your way around Scotland whether that be in the highlands, islands, cities, mountains, hills, valleys, and everywhere in between! This blog post might just be one of my favorites that I have written yet! I really want to start doing this for all the other destinations that I have visited: Iceland, Bali, The Philippines, Japan, Utah, and more, so keep an eye out for those up and coming posts on the blog!

Without further ado, here are fifty Scotland travel tips that will enhance and improve your traveling experience in this magical land!

This post may contain affiliate links for the products I mentioned, but as always, all opinions are my own. I make a small commission , at no extra cost to you, when you make a purchase or booking through these links. This helps  to support  this space and keep me blogging, which I am so extremely thankful for.

Tips For Planning + Booking Your Trip To Scotland

1 | plan time to explore more than just the major cities and touristy locations. .

Every part of Scotland is beautiful no matter where you go, but block off some extra time to go off the beaten path, explore some of the western islands, and even the northernmost parts of Scotland. Whenever I traveled there, I was with a large group for a tournament so I really only got to see the highlights, which, don’t get me wrong, I was still blown away, but I wish I would have gotten to see St. Kilda (a double UNESCO World Heritage Site), The Outer Isles, The Outer Hebrides, The Northwest Highlands, and a lonnnnnnng list of other sites. Your trip is going to be special regardless, but dig a little deeper in your research and find those places that will make your trip special.

2 | Plan Your Own Highlands Roadtrip > Booking A Guided Tour

Highland tours are expensive, they don’t give you any flexibility, and you’re not able to choose when you arrive in certain places, which means that you’re going to arrive in places at a similar time as all the other tour buses. The best option if you want to explore the Isle of Skye, The Highlands, or anywhere else outside of the major cities in Scotland, renting a car and crafting your own tour is going to be the best option. Hell, you could even rent a campervan and REALLY get that full Scottish road trip experience!

3 | Get To Know The History

Scotland is chalked full of history and stories about practically everything that you’re going to see and when you know of the stories and history, you’ll appreciate everything you see a whole lot more, at least I did. The key thing here is to bring a guidebook that will also teach you the history of the locations. You will look at certain landscapes, castles, and hikes with a different perspective once you dive deeper into their cultural stories and history of them.

4 | Book Excursions, Day Trips, And Tours Ahead + Online

I rarely end up booking things ahead of time, but in Scotland, booking online and in advance is going to save you some money and guarantee you a spot. If you’re planning on riding the Glenfinnan Viaduct (AKA The Harry Potter Train), you want to book several months in advance no matter the season. If you’re really keen on saving money, check out my other tips for traveling Scotland on a budget !

5 | Spend More Than Just A Day In Major Cities Like Edinburgh + Glasgow

You can easily see the highlights of Edinburgh like The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and many other iconic spots in a day, but spending more than a day, ideally three days in Edinburgh is going to get you into the Scottish groove, possibly into some shenanigans, and a more thorough experience of the city. The same goes for Glasgow!

6 | Get Into The Scottish Spirit Before You Head Out Via Books + Movies

Scotland is the setting for many iconic movies and tv shows. To name a few, Game of Thrones, Outlander, Braveheart, Monty Python and the Holy Grail are all recognizable, more mainstream movies that will get you into Scotland before you even leave for the airport. However, as I just said, these are all pretty mainstream, some even being historically inaccurate, so if you really want to explore the true Scottish culture, ‘The Sunshine On Leith’ and ‘Trainspotting’ are both great movies to start with and the Outlander series are great books to go to from there.

7 | The best way to get around the city is by foot and public transport and the best way to get around the highlands is in your own rental car.

Once you get into the cities, there really isn’t a need to rent a car until you leave to go to the more wild parts of Scotland. You can get around the vast majority of the country via public transportation, but a car allows you to squeeze into those little roads and explore more off the main areas. There are some parts that a large bus cannot get to, so having your own car is going to give you access to absolutely EVERYTHING.

8 | Scotland has its own currency, but it is valid all across the United Kingdom. The same goes for England and Northern Ireland currencies.

The prints on the currency vary depending on the bank that printed them in Scotland, but the Scottish currency can be mixed and matched with other currencies in the United Kingdom. It would basically be like if Texas printed it’s own dollar bills and I was visiting California, they are both technically the same currency, just different prints.

Packing + Adventure Tips For Scotland Travel

9 | use every opportunity to exercise scotland’s ‘right to roam’ law, but be respectful of the land and clean up after yourself. .

Back in 2003, Scotland passed its ‘Right to Roam’ law that allows both tourists and locals to enjoy Scotland’s land and waters no matter who owns them. This means that wild camping is legal, AND you can expect to find some hidden and spectacular locations! If you do choose to exercise this, PLEASE make sure that you don’t leave any trash, destroy the natural environment, and leave the place how you found it.

10 | Pack the proper gear that will keep you warm and dry.

When I think of warm and dry, I think of my absolute favorite hiking essentials: my cozy fleece , stylish yet still functional raincoat , waterproof pants , and my tried and true hiking boots ! If you’re out on a hike, or outside in general, you don’t want to end up a soggy mess, so I recommend investing in some high-quality gear if the outdoors is a large part of your life. Start out with some warm baselayers like the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Baselayers , and then layer up with the rainpants and outer shell. This is what my current layering system looks like:

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Longsleeve > T-Shirt > Sweater / Fleece > RAINS Classic Raincoat

Patagonia capilene midweight bottoms > leggings > mountain hardwear ozonic stretch pants.

This way I was able to strip down or add layers as the weather changed throughout the day!

11 | Pack comfortable shoes!

This is the FIRST thing you should even consider putting on your Scotland packing list because the hills and cobblestone streets are not going to do your back, hips, arches, or toes ANY favors. I made the mistake of trying to wear Vans around the city and let me just say, YIKES. I haven’t found the perfect pair of casual, yet still comfy walking shoes yet, but I want to give these adorable white sneakers a go, since they match with everything, but bring the pair that works best with your feet and back!

12 | “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute”

You can be in sunny, beautiful, partly cloudy weather one minute and then drive through a torrential downpour the next, seriously. It is both a blessing and a curse, but that is why you pack and wear those layers so that you’re unstoppable!

13 | Don’t rely on an umbrella to keep you dry; you’ll end up soggy.

If you encounter a light drizzle, sure, an umbrella will do the job, but when that afternoon, torrential downpour occurs, that umbrella is useless. Which is why I recommend having a waterproof shell, AKA a waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes that will keep your whole body dry!

14 | If you’re planning on taking a road trip, watch out for sheep on the road!

You’ll see these fluffy lil’ guys all over the country! Be careful on the roads and stay vigilant!

15 | Don’t stop in the middle of the road or street to take a photo.

If you try and stop in the middle of a bust street or road, 1. you might get hit, and 2. you’re going to get dirty looks and probably called a couple of names for not going off to the side. There are beautiful places all over Scotland, but make sure you walk to the side or pull off onto a spot on the side of the road before you take your photo.

16 | There are people that still speak Scotlands original language of Gaelic, so you will spot some bilingual signs on the road.

Practically everyone speaks English in Scotland, but as you veer away from the major cities, the more prominent Gaelic will be!

17 | If you get yourself into a bad situation where you need medical or emergency services, the phone number is 999.

There are tons of outdoor activities, hikes, and excursions that just might get you into a sticky situation. Ideally, you’ll never need this number, but just in case you need emergency help, the number is 999.

18 | ^^ and if you do need to make a call, that’s why it’s best to get a local, Scottish SIM card.

Throw you international phone plan out the window and step into the world of local SIM cards, my travel savior and my favorite way to stay safe while traveling . Generally, international phone plans cost around $10/day if it doesn’t already come with the plan you have, and that is WAY too much, especially if you travel for longer periods of time like I do. I’m not trying to drop that much coin to use my phone, so I opt-in for SIM cards, which are a one time fee, generally never over $30-40 USD, that will allow you to use your phone across the country you’re traveling in! You can make local calls and texts as well, so it’s a great way to save money and stay safe! All you have to do is make sure your phone is unlocked so you can pop out your SIM from home.

19 | The remote parts of Scotland are REALLY remote, so know where you’re going and don’t wander so far that you can’t find your way back.

This is true in Scotland, The United States, Europe, and really anywhere that is rich in nature, so just don’t do anything stupid, know your limits, and don’t go so far that you get lost and have to call the emergency number. I do encourage everyone to exercise the legality of wild camping, but just don’t be dumb, like with anywhere else you travel to.

20 | Get lost in the wildlife + help save it!

Something that I found out recently via a Scottish Youtuber was that Scotland is in a major climate crisis due to 1-in-11 of their wildlife in threat of extinction, illegal wildlife hunting, and other practices that have destroyed the natural landscape and wildlife.

She says, “We need to show the Scottish government that wildlife is valuable and worth saving. So come to the Isle of Mull to see white-tailed sea eagles and otters, come to Shetland to go whale watching, come and see the Eurasian beavers in Argyll and the ospreys that make the trip from Africa to the Cairngorms every year. We need to show them that ecotourism and wildlife tourism are greater assets to the tourism industry and the economy than shooting estates are.”

You can watch her video here and she describes the entire situation very very well.

General Scotland Travel Tips + Tips For On The Road

21 | scotland is not england or a part of england. .

Some people get confused and think that Scotland and England are the same thing, or at least within the same realm, and that is totally false. Scotland is very much its own country and is a part of the United Kingdom, which is made up of England, Scotland, Wales (that make up Great Britain), and Northern Ireland. So, yes, Scotland is its own country and even the accents there are drastically different than they are in England.

22 | English is widely spoken, but you may not understand what they’re saying. Just ask them to repeat it again slowly.

Understanding a Scottish accent is going to get easier and easier as you spend more time in the country, but at the beginning, sometimes you really need to focus on what they’re saying to understand. If it all goes over your head the first time, just ask them to say it again more slowly, and don’t feel dumb or embarrassed for having to ask because some of those accents are thick!

23 | Dive into some Scottish slang words before you arrive.

With the heavy Scottish accents around, knowing a couple of slang words is both fun to know and good practice when you’re traveling to a new place. Some great words to know are wee, dram, bevvy, + tatties!

wee / wee bit | a little bit

Bevvy | a drink, juice | anything that isn’t alcohol (juice), ah dinnae kin | i don’t know, tatties | potatoes, awright | are you alright / i agree / yes, braw | good, blether | you talk a lot / you talk a lot of rubbish.

Eager to dive deeper into Scottish slang? My friend Graham from My Voyages Scotland has the PERFECT guide!

“Scotland has a whole host of different dialects from north to south and east to west. Event the Scots themselves can get a bit confused as someone from Stornoway may have a completely different saying for something that a Glaswegian has. Read this guide to Scottish Sayings before heading to Scotland to make sure you do not get lost in the many different regional sayings. And remember, everyone can always revert to ‘proper’ English if asked!”

24 | Cards are widely accepted, especially in major cities, but keep extra cash on you once you venture outside of them. 

This is a travel tip that goes beyond just Scotland, but most of the time, the farther you are from a major city, the less likely they’re going to accept cards. It’s best to keep cash enough cash to last you at least a couple of days: not so much that if you’re robbed you’re screwed, but not so little that you’re screwed if they don’t accept cards.

25 | Don’t shy away from public transportation. It can save you a lot of money!

Every time I travel somewhere in Europe, I am blown away by the efficiency of their public transportation systems. Living in the US, basically, if you’re outside a city and don’t have a car you’re screwed, but this is not the case in Scotland! You can use buses or trains to get around and in between major cities and other places around the country and it’s a whole lot cheaper than renting a car! When you’re looking at how to get around, don’t forget to check out routes and prices for buses and trains!

26 | If you decide public transport is your way to get around Scotland, consider buying a Scotrail pass.

A Scotrail Pass is great if you plan on going all around Scotland via bus/train/etc.. There are multiple ticket tiers that you can buy for your individual trip, which you can view here , and they cover buses, trains, ferries, trams for whatever region you choose to buy your ticket for. It is quite useful whether you plan on hopping around a certain area or thoroughly traveling the whole country. It isn’t always the cheaper option, so compare rates before you buy to make sure it’s worth it for you.

27 | Taking the bus? Bring exact change!

The bus drivers don’t give change back if you overpay, so make sure that you have smaller coins to pay the transport fees! There are also day passes available for purchase so that you don’t have to worry about getting the change right every single time.

A lil Update | January 2020

I was notified via the comments from a traveler that visited Edinburgh recently and the bus drivers were able to give him exact change back for his ride! It looks like some changes are being made to help things run a little smoother, so an exact change may not be necessary as you can now pay with a card as well!

28 | Tipping is customary in Scotland, but the standard is 10%.

Tipping culture isn’t as widespread and stressed as it is here in the United States, but the standard is 10% for services, but there are some exceptions:

Taxis | Round up to the nearest pound

Hotels / tours | none, 29 | sales tax is included in all the prices, so you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying..

Unlike SOME places, ahem *cough* the United States, the prices that you soo on products and goods is exactly what you’re going to pay for that item. All the tax is included in the price so you don’t have to play guessing games as to how much something actually costs. This was a really nice switch coming from the United States and I’ve always wondered why we don’t do that ourselves… At any rate, this makes buying things SO much easier!

Tips On Scottish Food, Drinks + Culture

30 | the local foods and dishes are very interesting but try them, and then ask what they are or try veggie versions of them.

Haggis and black pudding are two foods that you for sure want to give ago while you’re in Scotland. I didn’t try them since I am vegan, but some of Edinburgh’s best vegan restaurants serve a veggie version of this dish that is quite tasty! If you’re not vegan, ask what the food is after you’ve tried it so it doesn’t steer you away from eating it. It’s all in the fun and mystery of experiencing Scotland!

31 | Get restaurant and meal recommendations from locals instead of eating at all the touristy restaurants.

Scotland’s cities are chalked full of incredible local and international cuisine; seriously, it’s some of the best food I’ve tasted! Not to mention, touristy restaurants are expensive, typical, and not as high-quality food than real local dives in the city. Food is probably, like, half the reason I travel to places so I looooooove trying new dishes and combinations while I travel. I know some people don’t care for the food in certain places, but if you can manage it budget-wise, try out local breakfast spots instead of the one offered at the hotel and go out of your way to find those special places!

32 | Indulge in the whisky and craft beers while you’re here.

While you’re in Edinburgh, make sure you pay a visit to the Scottish Whisky Experience ! They have a display of over 4,000 bottles of whisky and it is one of the seven wonders of the Scotch whisky world! Also, the Scots know how to party, so don’t shy away on having some fun and trying new drinks!

33 | When you order a scotch, don’t take it like a shot. It’s meant to be sipped and savored.

Many people make the mistake of ordering a scotch and tossing it down the hatch immediately, buuuuuuut you’re going to get some looks if you do that. Slow down and savor the flavors!

34 | The vegan/vegetarian food scenes in Glasgow and Edinburgh are some of the best in the United Kingdom! I had some of the best vegan breakfasts , coffees , and dinners while in Edinburgh! 

I didn’t know if I was going to starve or indulge while I was in Edinburgh, and I am pleased to say that I indulged! There are many incredible restaurants that offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options for visitors, so check out the links above and scope out some awesome eateries!

35 | The men do wear kilts (do not call it a skirt) and the pattern on it is called tartan, not plaid! 

Kilts aren’t a taboo thing in Scotland. In fact, each clan has its own specific tartan that has been passed down over generations! It’s not uncommon to see these on the streets of Edinburgh, but not everyone is going to be wearing them. Back in the 19th century, kilts became formal wear that was only worn for ceremonies, weddings, and sporting events, but they’re slowly making their way back into informal, casual wear, so expect to see them while you’re strolling around the cities and highlands!

36 | Whatever you do, don’t lift up a man’s kilt!

Well, okay, not that you would do that anyway, but don’t say I didn’t warn you (;

Tips For Visiting Edinburgh

37 | edinburgh is pronounced ed-in-burr-uhh, not ed-in-burg (i messed it up the first time too lol)..

Come to my surprise, and maybe yours as well, the g is silent in Edinburgh… I looked like a total goober pronouncing it with the g the first time I ever tried to say it, so make sure you the correct way, which sounds way cooler than what I thought it was.

38 | Avoid traveling to Edinburgh in the month of August unless you’re attending The Fringe Festival.

Edinburgh turns into an absolute zoo in the month of August from the Fringe Festival , so unless you’re planning on paying it a visit, I would avoid this month. The prices skyrocket, the crowds are massive, and it’s an all-around madhouse among the streets. Personally, there isn’t really a bad time to visit Scotland, much like most other countries around the world, as long as you pack the proper gear and attire! If you want to avoid crowds, go in the spring and summertime!

39 | Among your time in Edinburgh, consider a day trip to Glasgow. You don’t want to write it off your itinerary!

Glasgow is only an hour away from Edinburgh by bus, so make sure you head over there and roam around for a day. I wasn’t able to visit myself, but I know many people who love Glasgow over Edinburgh, and vice versa! Take the time to see both, indulge in both cultures, and decide for yourself!

40 | Stay in Airbnb’s and guesthouses over hotels to save money and experience Scottish culture. You’ll also want to book this in advance as they fill up fast!

Hotels are more than likely going to be close to the Royal Mile, AKA expensive, so I recommend renting out a flat or apartment through Airbnb to get a feel for local life, save a bit of money, and have a unique experience! That isn’t to say that this is an uncommon practice, so book as soon as you can! These places book up fast!

41 | Edinburgh is a busy, popular city year-round, so get to more touristy places, like Edinburgh Castle, as early as you can to avoid crowds.

I believe we can all admit that a large crowd can really damage an experience, that is unless you’re attending an awesome concert, so I suggest that you get to popular places like Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral, The Elephant House, Arthur’s Seat, and many other popular destinations either when they open or as early as you can. This tip is more stressed in the summer months since those are a lot busier than other times of the year, but I always think this is a great practice to have no matter where you’re traveling to! Early bird gets the worm (and the best photos)!

42 | Walk the Royal Mile more than once. You’ll see new things every single time.

Since I was in Edinburgh for a tournament, I walked up and down the Royal Mile multiple times and I saw new shops every single time. There is so much you miss and look past if you only walk it once, so if you can manage the time and are up to hunt down some wee shops, do it! You’ll find some true treasures! If you only have a day in Edinburgh , use that time to explore as many of the treasures of the city that you can! There is a lot to see!

43 | Explore the outskirts and small villages of Edinburgh like Leith and Stockbridge. You’ll escape crowds and feel like you’re in a fairytale!

If you’ve ever imagined a Scottish fairytale, Leith and Stockbridge are those imaginations coming to life. These villages are quaint, floral, adorable, picturesque, and everything in between! The best part is that not many people roam out to these two spots, so you’ll be able to see the quieter towns and sides of Edinburgh!

44 | Get lost and take the stairs.

There are many ‘closes’, random stairways, and other corridors that are begging for people to come and get lost in (in a good way). If you see a small alleyway or staircase going down somewhere, GO! It is going to lead you to some awesome, hidden and beautiful parts of the city!

45 | Geek out at all of the Harry Potter spots in the city: Greyfriars Kirkyard, The Elephant House, Spoons.

If you didn’t know already, J.K. Rowling wrote and gathered inspiration for Harry Potter right in the heart of Edinburgh! I can understand how because it’s hard not to be inspired in a city like this! If you visit the Greyfriars Kirkyard, you’re able to see Professor McGonagall and Tom Riddle’s gravesites, which are known for being an inspiration for these characters! Also, you can pay a visit to The Elephant House, which claims to be the birthplace of Harry Potter, but it is more likely that she wrote the first book of the series in a cafe called Nicholson’s own by one of her relatives at the time, which is now called Spoons. The Elephant House tends to be extremely crowded, so if you want to avoid that, but still feel the magic, pay a visit to Spoons, instead!

46 | Spend a night watching a classic or modern film at The Cameo Picturehouse.

The Cameo is one of the oldest cinemas in Scotland that is still in use! It was built back in 1914 and most, if not all, of the original decor, has either been restored or kept as is. If you want to take a deep dive into a taste of what life was like back in the 1910s/20s, pay a visit here and step back in time!

47 |  Avoid the typical tourist souvenir shops and get a handmade souvenir while you’re in the highlands, Isle of Skye, or other parts of Scotland.

Most of the souvenirs on the Royal Mile are massed produced, overpriced wares that are not worth holding your memories of Scotland in. Once you venture out into the highlands and more remote parts of Scotland, find a local artist or artisan that you can buy a unique souvenir from, such as pottery or a piece of art. This way you’re giving back to the local community and you have something more special than, let’s say, a t-shirt or shot glass.

48 | If you’re there on a weekend, go to the farmer’s market to try local produce and local vendors!

Heading to the Edinburgh Farmer’s Market on a fine Saturday morning was one of my favorite things I experienced during my entire time in Edinburgh! I ate some drool-worthy vegan food, bread, and even picked up some skincare items that I loved every last drop of! I recommend picking up some Scottish strawberries and tomatoes and sourdough from the local bakery vendor. The market is right under Edinburgh Castle so it’s a great place to visit after you’re done exploring the quarters.

49 | DO visit one of Edinburgh’s festivals!

Indulge in art, music, and movies during the Fringe Festival or party like there’s no tomorrow at the Hogmanay Festival ! If there is one thing for sure, the Scottish sure know how to host a party!

50 | If you want to get really crazy, hit up Scotland’s Viking Festival, Up Helly Aa , in Lerwick, Shetland!

This party is so wild that people even say its bigger than Christmas… Yes, CHRISTMAS. Must be pretty off the chain if you ask me! It normally takes place in January each year and is filled with fire, food, and fury! If you need any information about the festival, that is linked above and if you need information on staying and getting to Shetland, then you can visit their tourism website here for all the information!

LOOKING FOR MORE SCOTLAND TRAVEL RESOURCES? CHECK THESE OUT:

–  The Best Time To Visit Scotland

–  The BEST Scotland Packing List For Summer

–  The Ultimate 10 Days In Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

–  10 Tips For Traveling Scotland On A Budget

–  72 Hours in the Isle of Skye

–  Hiking The Old Man Of Storr: The Isle Of Skye’s Crown Jewel

RESOURCES FOR VISITING EDINBURGH:

–  3 Days In Edinburgh: The Ultimate Itinerary for Edinburgh, Scotland

–  The 8 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh You CANNOT Miss

–  The 10 Best Hostels In Edinburgh For A Magical Stay

–  The Best Coffee Shops In Edinburgh: 15 Cafe’s You Can’t Miss

–  The 10 Best Mouth-Watering Vegan Restaurants In Edinburgh

–  The Top 15 Places To Get A Vegan Breakfast In Edinburgh

Do you have any useful tips for traveling Scotland? Share with me in the comments below!

Did you find these Scotland travel tips helpful?

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18 comments on “ 50 Scotland Travel Tips For An Unforgettable Trip ”

I love that you list all of these great travel places and the comes my humble state of Utah. Most out of country (and state for that matter) don’t realized how beautiful it is. From desert to mountains, we have it all. The red rock areas are the most beautiful. Can’t wait to see your travel tips for us. Just now reading your travel trips for Scotland which is my most favorite place on earth.

Hi Marcia! Scotland has been one of my all-time favorites as well (: What place was your favorite that you visited?

Scotch, ie the drink that can only be made in Scotland, is named WHISKY not whiskey (that’s all the other stuff).

Thank you for the clarification! (: It’s revised

Edinburgh in August is a must in order to attend the Military Tattoo

I only didn’t recommend it since it can get so crowded, but I definitely recommend going in August if that’s what someone is interested in (:

Such helpful tips. Scotland is definitely beautiful. Can’t wait to visit it soon

I am stoked to go back as well! I cannot wait till we can explore again!

#32 what’s all this whiskey stuff?

Scotland is an incredible destination for whisky drinking and sampling (:

Loved reading this! Been living in Edinburgh for half a year now and have yet so much more to explore in Scotland!

What’s your favorite place in Edinburgh?! That’s awesome that you have so much time to see the city!

I loved Scotland so much and hope to go back one day! Your pictures really made me wish that one day comes soon.

I’ve been keen on another visit myself! There’s just so much to see!

Love these helpful tips. Also, your Scotland photos are stunning; thanks for the inspiration!

I’m glad you enjoyed it and my photos (:

I really enjoyed your article! One thing I’d like to mention though, when I was in Edinburgh this past Sept, the local busses did actually make change for me. I guess it’s a relatively new thing. They also took credit and debit cards. And excellent tip about the sim card. I wish I had thought of that before we went!

Oh, thank you! It looks like they are implementing some changes! I’ll go ahead and put a note for it (: + yes SIM cards are my favorite way to stay connected while I travel!

The Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary: 9 Days in Isle of Skye, Edinburgh, Loch Ness & More.

Scotland has long lingered on my travel bucket list. Its grassy carpet-like fields, uncounted cascading waterfalls, stirring mountains, and craggy coastlines are pure fantasy for the landscape lover. Or really for anyone who yearns for long scenic drives, surrounded by raw nature at its finest.

Scotland’s most worthwhile spectacles tend to be concealed down winding, narrow roads, unruffled by the trivial hustle and bustle of civilisation.

The best way to experience the unforgiving land known by ancient Romans as  Caledonia  is by jumping behind the wheel for a wee road trip.

My circular 9-day Scotland road trip itinerary involves  hiring a car in the capital, Edinburgh , and driving north to Inverness, then delving deep into rugged highlands before climaxing with the fanciful Isle of Skye. Of course, we’ll stop along the way to glimpse cute highland coos and sip authentic Scotch whisky.  

Throw a few  bagpipe anthems  to your road trip playlist, grab yer kilt, crank up  Scotland The Brave , and let’s hit the road!

If you’re Scottish, I apologise in advance if I offend with my sense of humour. I really do love your country!

Phew! That got them gingers off my tail.

Essential Scotland Road Trip Tips

1. pack for cold weather and never believe the weather forecast.

Scotland’s lush green landscapes have one little catch – rain. Lots of rain. The driest and warmest time to visit is during the summer months of July and August. But even then, don’t take the weather forecast too seriously as it seems to change by the hour!

My Scotland road trip was in early September, which seemed to be the sweet spot. Popular stops weren’t too crowded and we only had one day of heavy, non-stop rain towards the end of our trip.

Weather in the highlands ranged from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F) in September, so remember to pack a warm jacket, scarf, beanie, and umbrella.

2. Stay in local B&Bs and book in advance

I stayed in small B&Bs in the highlands for the cosy, home-away-from-home feeling. All of my hosts were extremely welcoming and treated me to delicious traditional Scottish breakfasts each morning.

Most B&Bs tend to fill up fast, so I suggest booking a few weeks in advance - a couple of months would be better. Alternatively, look for staycation hotels for short trips, as you can find bargains when travelling in shoulder season.

3. Use caution with Google Maps

This app is a life-saver, an essential tool on any road trip. However, some minor “roads” in Scotland that Google Maps sends you down really aren’t roads. They’d barely rate as footpaths in other countries, and you may not always be able to drive on them. Other times they could be a private farm road. So, take directions with a large grain of salt and study your route ahead of time. And remember to download your offline maps while on Wi-Fi.

Day 1 – Edinburgh

Edinburgh is jam-packed full of Scottish history and culture, from the 12 th century Edinburgh Castle, to elegant streets lined with colourful Georgian townhouses, to bagpipes playing traditional melodies in the background.

Although this road trip is all about Scotland’s natural beauty, the first day is dedicated to Edinburgh getting a feel for the all things Scottish. My favourite things to do in Edinburgh include:

Soak up Scottish history at Edinburgh Castle

The history of Edinburgh Castle dates back to the 12 th century when it was a royal residence. From the 14 th century, it became heavily involved in the Wars of Scottish Independence, earning its reputation as the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked structures in the world.

The castle now offers spectacular views over Edinburgh for visitors from all over the world. Be sure to check out St Margaret’s Chapel , the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh; the Royal Palace , where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to King James VI and where the Crown Jewels and Stone of Scone now reside; the National War Museum ; and, of course, the whiskey shop .

I recommend buying skip-the-line tickets online and visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. Free guided tours run every 15 minutes (starting under a red clock near Mill’s Mount Battery ), so I suggest starting with a tour then returning to your favourite spots. Our guide summarised the castle’s turbulent history and shared handy tips, from the least slippery parts of the medieval pavement to the best place to watch the one o’clock gun fire at, you guessed it, one o’clock.

Hours: 9:30am – 6pm, daily (summer hours)

Visit length: 1.5 - 2 hours.

Marvel at the beauty of St Giles’ Cathedral

St Giles’ Cathedral started its life as a catholic cathedral in the 12 th century. After being involved in the Scottish Reformation and independence from Catholicism, it came to be known as the Mother Church of World Presbyterianism. St Giles is both fascinating and gorgeous, with grand stained-glass windows and several military and religious monuments.

Entry is free but photography permits are £2 and must be purchased before taking photos inside the cathedral, even on your smartphone.

Hours: 9am – 7pm Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm Saturday, 1pm – 5pm Sunday (summer hours)

Visit length: 30 minutes

Introduce yourself to Scotch whisky at Whiski Rooms

Whiski Rooms is my favourite place to taste single malt whisky in Edinburgh. While you can pre-book an official Whiskey tasting at a set time, you can also simply walk up to the bar at any time and order a whisky flight to taste.

Each flight comes with 4 small glasses of whiskey selected from a menu, from staff favourites to aged classics. I played it safe with the Introduction to Whisky flight and sampled 4 varieties from different regions around Scotland. Hold on to your whiskey menus as they include instructions on how to taste whisky like a pro.

Hours: 10am to 1am, daily

Visit length: 1 hour

Walk in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots at Holyrood Palace

The Palace of Holyroodhouse , or Holyrood Palace, is located at the opposite end of The Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle. Tickets include an interactive audio guide which leads you on a journey through the palace, exploring its history from construction in 1528 to modern use by Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family.

Highlights include Mary Queen of Scots’ bedchamber and stories from her life in the palace; the ruins of Holyrood Abbey; and a walk through the palace gardens where the Queen hosts a garden party every July.

Hours: 9:30am – 6pm (summer hours)

Visit length: 1.5 hours

Watch the sunset from Arthur’s Seat

If you’re feeling fit, climb the dormant volcano, Arthur’s Seat , to watch the sun set over the city. Climbing to the top takes about an hour, although there are lower, easier-to-reach lookout points too. Wear suitable shoes as some parts of the climb are quite slippery and bring lots of water.

Visit length: 2 - 2.5 hours

Have a picnic at Calton Hill

For a less exerting lookout point, visit Calton Hill which just has 2-3 minutes’ worth of stairs to climb.  Calton Hill is home to several significant Neoclassical monuments, including the National Monument of Scotland and the Nelson Monument . There’s also a large grassed area, which is the perfect place to relax with a book or have a little picnic and admire the views.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

I spent 2 nights in sophisticated style at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh , conveniently located within walking distance of all attractions listed above.  

I stayed in a spacious Designer Suite with an elegant watercolour theme continued throughout the room from the furniture to the wallpaper. Each Designer Suite is decorated with unique artwork, so you’ll feel like a celebrity with the tailor-made interior.

Celebrity treatment continues at breakfast, with a generous buffet of pastries, cereals, and fruit as well as a cooked-to-order hot breakfast. I ordered the vegetarian breakfast which came with vegan haggis (yum!), sausages and grilled vegetables.

If you’ve already collected your rental car, parking is available at sister hotel, Radisson Blu Edinburgh (5 minutes walk) for £12.50 per night. Otherwise, find a rental car on Rentalcars.com .

Day 2 – Edinburgh to Inverness

Driving time: 3.5 hours

The first actual road trip day involves driving from Edinburgh to Inverness. Inverness is the last major city on the trip so stock up on road trip snacks and anything else you might need, like car chargers and aux cables, as they’ll become increasingly harder to find.

I left Edinburgh at 10am, had lunch in Dunkeld at 12:30pm, and arrived in Inverness at 5:30pm.

See the UNESCO heritage listed Forth Bridge at Queensferry

Navigate to the Binks Carpark at South Queensferry Harbour, a 30-minute drive west from Edinburgh. Most carparks in Queensferry tend to be pretty busy, especially on weekends, so you may need to drive around for a few minutes or wait for someone to leave.

After parking, we walked along the foreshore to the pier , admired the red Forth Bridge , and stopped for coffee at a waterfront café.

Grab lunch by the river in Dunkeld

Next, set navigate to the Tay Terrace Carpark in Dunkeld, a 1-hour drive from Queensferry. Parking is free on Sundays, but otherwise paid so make sure you have a few coins.

We had lunch in the riverfront garden of the Atholl Arms , a tavern serving traditional pub food with a few vegetarian and vegan options.

After lunch, we walked along Atholl Street to explore the town, stopping at the Ell Shop to buy locally made souvenirs. Items for sale include mugs, ceramics, books, cashmere scarfs, and even pet accessories. We then visited the restored, 14 th century Dunkeld Cathedral , located on the riverbank, surrounded by beautiful parklands. Inside the small church is an even smaller museum with ruins of standing stones and informative posters on the history of the cathedral and town.

Visit length: 2 hours

See your first Scottish waterfall at the Falls of Bruar

The last stop is a 30-minute drive northwest from Dunkeld. Navigate to the House of Bruar which has a large carpark and a complex of shops selling clothing, homewares, and local produce like nuts, chocolate, jams, biscuits, cheeses, olives, and of course, whisky. There’s also a café and buffet restaurant. Have a wander around the somewhat overpriced shops, but the real treat is the nearby waterfall.

Around the back of the buildings is a quaint walking trail that leads to the Falls of Bruar and a small stone bridge. The waterfall viewing platforms are a 15-minute stroll north from the shops and carpark.

Check into your B&B in Inverness

The last leg of the day is a 90-minute drive north to Inverness to check into your B&B for the next 2 nights. I stayed in Riverview Guesthouse which I highly recommend for the modern yet cosy rooms, delicious breakfasts, and super friendly staff.

Bubbly owner, Eilidh, recommended the best restaurants in town for our dinner and kindly offered to make reservations for us. Tip: Zizzi have a few delicious Italian-themed vegan options.

Day 3 – Loch Ness

Driving time: 2 hours

Day 3 is spent exploring the region around Loch Ness, the largest water body in the UK by volume. Loch Ness is famous for its fabled elusive sea monster, but it’s also one of the most beautiful and serene places in Scotland.

I left Inverness at 9am, had lunch in Fort Augustus at 2pm, and arrived back at Inverness at 5.30pm.

Learn the legend behind the Loch Ness Monster at Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition

Drive 25-minutes southwest from Inverness to Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition to walk through a series of interactive videos about the history of Loch Ness and the search for the famous Loch Ness Monster, Nessie. Tickets are available at the door for £8.45 per adult.

According to the videos, there’s been over 1,000 sightings of a ‘monster’ in Loch Ness since 1868, sparking scientific studies into lifeforms inside the loch. The videos present the studies’ findings, including possible explanations for each ‘monster’ sighting, but ultimately leave it up to you to decide whether or not Nessie is hiding in the deep, dark waters.

The exhibition ends in a gift shop selling Nessie toys and souvenirs, books, and clothing. I couldn’t help but buy a somewhat-traditional Scottish hat.

Semi-true story: Apparently 40% of people in Scotland have a recessive gene for ginger hair. Mine spontaneously activated.

Visit length: 80 minutes

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle

The next stop, Urquhart Castle , is a 7-minute drive southeast from Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. Tickets can be purchased at the door for £12 per adult. The visit starts with an 8-minute introductory video on the castle’s history, covering its construction, involvement in clan disputes and the Wars of Scottish Independence, and its abandonment and destruction in 1692.

After the video, wander through the castle ruins for some of the best views over Loch Ness and to see the interesting rock wall remnants of buildings like the guard house and stables.

Cruise along Loch Ness from Fort Augustus

Navigate to the Fort Augustus Pay & Display Carpark , a 30-minute drive southwest from Urquhart Castle towards the southern tip of Loch Ness. Once you’ve paid for parking, walk 5 minutes to Cruise Loch Ness for a 45-minute boat ride on the loch. I recommend catching the 1pm boat and arriving 15 minutes early to be one of the first in line for the best seats on the top deck. Tickets can be booked online in advance. During the cruise, humorous staff explain the habitats alongside Loch Ness and point out deer, goats, and waterfalls on the water’s edge. The lower deck bar sells snacks, beer, and whisky (of course!) to enjoy while taking in the views.

After the boat ride, grab some lunch at a nearby pub like the Richmond House Hotel then enjoy a quiet walk along the Fort Augustus Locks or pick up a souvenir at the Clansman Centre or the Millshop.

Visit length: 3 hours

Wander alongside the Falls of Foyers

Drive 26 minutes northeast to the free Falls of Foyers carpark , located across the road from the waterfalls. There are 2 viewing points, one for the upper falls and one for the lower falls. I suggest only going to the upper falls which is a 10-minute walk along a fairly easy, but narrow, path to see the dramatic, roaring waterfall. The path to the lower falls is much longer and steeper and leads to a shallow cascading waterfall.

Return to Inverness for dinner and drinks

Drive 35 minutes northeast back to Inverness for your last night at Riverview Guesthouse . I suggest wandering around the city or enjoying a cocktail at Contrast before dinner. We were lucky enough to have Eilidh make dinner reservations for us again. Tip: try The Alleycat for the only dedicated vegan restaurant in town.

Day 4 – Inverness to Ullapool 

Driving time: 3 hours

Day 4 is one of the most scenic driving days of this road trip. Expect a few spur-of-the-moment stops on the side of the road to admire scenery or grazing livestock that will undoubtedly catch your attention.

I left Inverness at 9:30am, had lunch in Achiltibuie at 1pm, and arrived in Ullapool at 5pm.

Walk along the pebbly Ardmair Beach

Navigate to Ardmair Beach , a 1-hour 20-minute drive northwest from Inverness. There’s no official car park here so just pull over on the side of the road and walk down to the serene, pebbly beach for a gentle walk or to practice stone skipping.

Admire the soaring Stac Pollaidh

Next, drive 20-minutes north to the Stac Pollaidh , a soaring rocky mountain with sandstone pinnacles. I suggest navigating to the main carpark which is a short walk from the mountain’s base and primarily used by mountain climbing enthusiasts. This region is where you’ll find yourself pulling over every few minutes to take photos of lakes, spectacular views of the mountain, or herds of cute fluffy sheep.

I didn’t venture too far from the carpark but spent a few minutes admiring the serene Stac Pollaidh, and took a quick drone flight, before continuing on.

Have lunch at the only restaurant in Achiltibuie

Next, drive 20 minutes west to the Achiltibuie Piping School Café , a small, basic restaurant overlooking green fields stretching towards the sea. The restaurant’s veggie burger is delicious and they have free Wi-Fi… not bad for such a remote location!

Stretch your legs at Achmelvich Beach

The next leg is one of the most beautiful and also one of the most nerve-wracking with narrow roads winding around sharp corners and up steep hills. You’ll find yourself pulling over to let people pass as you drive under lush canopies and beside trickling creeks that seem to have leapt out of the pages of a whimsical fairy tale.

Navigate to Achmelvich Beach Car Park , a 1-hour drive north from Achiltibuie, and walk 2 minutes down to the white, sandy beach flanked by rocky outcrops. It was fairly cold and windy on the day of our visit, but we still enjoyed a short walk along the paradisiac shore.

Walk out to the ruins of Advreck Castle

Next, navigate to the Advreck Castle Parking lot to visit the ruins of this 16 th century castle, a 22-minute drive east from Achmelvich Beach. The ‘parking lot’ is more of a shoulder on the side of the road, but don’t worry if it’s full as there are a few other wide shoulders nearby. The castle ruins are located at the end of a sandbar and across a large field with no real footpath. The ruins are exquisite to see up close but make sure you bring waterproof shoes as the field can be quite muddy. Or just do it “Josh style” and dance across the water-logged grass on your tippy toes like a sugar plum fairy . On the opposite side of the road is another waterfall .

Check into your B&B in Ullapool

Drive 35 minutes south to check into your B&B in Ullapool. I recommend staying at Riverside because of its central location within walking distance of several restaurants, friendly staff, and traditional Scottish breakfasts, including a vegetarian option.

I suggest either Ceilidh Place or the Arch Inn for dinner. Ceilidh Place requires an advanced booking while the Arch Inn asks guests to enjoy a drink in the bar until a table is free.

Day 5 – Ullapool to Isle of Skye

Driving time: 5 hours, 45 minutes

Day 5 requires navigating to a few stops along the famous North Coast 500 route to keep Google Maps on the scenic road. If you navigate straight to the Isle of Skye, Google Maps will take you on the most direct route, which involves less driving, but misses the jaw-dropping gorges, rivers, and waterfalls along Scotland’s exquisite north-west coastline.

I left Ullapool at 9am, had lunch in Torridon at 1.30pm, dinner on the Isle of Skye at 6pm, and arrived at my B&B on the Isle of Skye at 7:30pm.

Marvel at lush gardens thriving on a seaside clifftop at Inverewe Garden

Before leaving Ullapool, make a quick stop at Tesco to refill your road trip snack supply. Then navigate to Inverewe Garden , a 1-hour 15-minute drive southwest from Ullapool.  

Inverewe Garden is a lush botanical garden remarkably thriving on a harsh windy, rocky coastline. The garden includes plants from various climates and regions, including a vegetable garden, bamboo forest, South American garden, and succulent garden. The lookout point offers panoramic views over the sea and an old hunting lodge has been transformed into a small museum. Tickets are available at the door for £12.50 per adult. Tip: Keep a lookout for the teeny Venus flytrap!

Visit length:1 hour

Wander through church ruins before lunch in Torridon

Next, navigate to the Torridon Stores & Cafe , a 1-hour drive from Inverewe Garden, and park in the small carpark across the road. Walk about 5 minutes down a gravel path to the Am Ploc Open Air Church Ruins , dramatically located on the water’s edge.

After a peaceful stroll through the ruins, have some lunch either at Torridon Stores & Café or the Torridon Inn , a 6-minute drive away.

Try to spot highland coos on the road to Applecross

Navigate to the Applecross Inn , a 1-hour drive southeast from Torridon via Fernmore . You may see some highland coos grazing alongside the road to Applecross if you’re lucky.

Stop at the Applecross Inn for a coffee break before continuing to possibly one of the most stunning scenic mountain passes in the world… “Bealach na Ba”. Sorry, you can’t buy a vowel. It means “pass of the cattle” in Scottish. I’ll let the pictures do the talking.

Check into your B&B on the Isle of Skye

Next, navigate to the vegan-friendly Café Sia on Isle of Skye where I stopped for dinner at about 6pm. Café Sia is a winding 1-hour 25-minute drive from Bealach na Ba Viewpoint. The route will take you across the Skye Bridge for your first view of the Isle of Skye’s cloud-tipped cliffs and verdant fields. It could only be described as a love child of Middle Earth and Hawaii.

After dinner drive another 50 minutes northwest to Portree to check into your B&B for the next 3 nights. I stayed at Kiloran Bed and Breakfast , a 10-minute drive northwest of Portree and the perfect location for a little peace and quiet with waterfront views. Our host, Neil, made continental breakfast each morning with fruit, cereals, toast, and porridge, and kindly shared expert local tips on each location we planned to visit with the aid of his wall-sized map of the island.

Day 6 – Isle of Skye

Driving time: 2.5 hours

The first day on the Isle of Skye is spent exploring the Trotternish peninsular, home to some of the isle’s most beautiful landscapes.

I left my B&B at 10am, had lunch in Staffin at 1pm, dinner in Portree at 6:30pm, and returned to the B&B at 7.30pm.

Drive along Loch Fada to the Old Man of Storr

Navigate to the Old Man of Storr parking lot to see the rocky mountain face resembling a pointed finger. In fact, from a certain angle it looks like a middle finger. This is Scotland, after all. The carpark tends to be quite busy so you may have to wait for someone to leave or park in a shoulder further up the road. The 30-minute drive from Kiloran Bed and Breakfast will take you along the serene Loch Fada , which I couldn’t resist pulling over to photograph.

If you enjoy hiking, follow the dirt track uphill to see the Old Man of Storr up close, which will take a little under 2 hours. Otherwise, follow the path for 15-20 minutes for slightly better views, then return to the carpark. I chose the second option to fit more into the day.

Look out over Brothers Point

Next, drive 12 minutes north to park at Brothers point (Rubha nam Brathairean) and wander over to the 2 lookout points. One lookout point has views of a waterfall while the other has views of dramatic cliffs soaring up from the sea. If you’re not afraid of heights, follow the dirt path to the edge of the cliffs for a closer look, just don’t get too close!

Quickly admire Kilt Rock

Next, drive 6 minutes north to the Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Viewpoint for the best views of a large rock that remarkably resembles a Scottish kilt. You’ll also see a man-made waterfall teeming down the side of a cliff into the sea and informative plaques on dinosaur footprints found in the area.

Lunch in Staffin

When you’re ready for lunch, drive 5-minutes north to the small town of Staffin. I chose to eat at Columba 1400 Café which has several vegetarian and vegan options.

Walk among dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach 

After lunch, drive 5 minutes north to the rocky An Corran Beach to see fossilized dinosaur footprints . There’s a plaque highlighting where on the rocky shore the footprints are located, but I personally couldn’t spot them. Can you see them in the picture below? Squint harder!

Dinosaur footprints or not, the beach makes for a relaxing stroll to admire gently lapping waves and small rock pools.

Marvel at the Quiraing

Navigate 10 minutes west up a steep, winding road to the Quiraing . There are 2 carparks at the top of the mountain, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to pull over along the way for photos.

I recommend spending at least 30 minutes wandering around the iconic landscapes of the Quiraing to appreciate the views. Be careful to avoid muddy patches or wear waterproof shoes.

Stop for a coffee break

We felt like a hot drink after walking around in the beautiful yet chilly landscapes of the Quiraing and drove 17 minutes north to the Single Track Art Gallery & Espresso Bar - one of Neil’s recommendations. I was pleasantly surprised to discover this tiny coffee shop sold vegan hot chocolate (with oat milk) and even had a few vegan cakes.

Saunter among the ruins of Duntlum Castle

Next, drive 5 minutes west to see the ruins of Duntlum Castle , located on the northern tip of the Isle of Skye. Park along the side of the road and walk about 5 minutes north along a somewhat muddy dirt track through a field of grazing sheep to view the crumbly cliffside castle.

Wander through the Fairy Glen

Navigate 25 minutes south to The Fairy Glen and park in a shoulder on the side of the road. The Fairy Glen has some of the most otherworldly landscapes on Skye, bearing an eerily close resemblance to The Shire of Middle Earth. I half-expected to spot hobbits. I suggest spending at least an hour to wander up and down the small hills, admiring the scenery from every possible angle.

Dinner in Portree

Drive 30 minutes southeast back to Portree for dinner and park in the short-term carpark , which is free after 6pm. I had dinner at Caroy House , which doesn’t take bookings but asks guests to enjoy a drink in the bar until a table is free. We only had to wait about 20 minutes. I recommend the millionaires log with vegan ice-cream for desert.

Day 7 – Isle of Skye

Driving time: 2 hours 45 minutes

I started day 7 by venturing to the lesser-known Waternish peninsula then visiting more popular sites at Dunvegan and Neist Point on the Duirinish peninsula.

I left my B&B at 10:30am, had lunch in Dunvegan at 1:30pm, dinner in Portree at 6pm, and returned to my B&B at 7:30pm.

See the ruins of Trumpan Church involved in clan disputes

Navigate to Trumpan Church , a 35-minute drive northwest from Kiloran Bed and Breakfast past several farming fields, a few art galleries, and exquisite views over the sea. There’s a small carpark opposite the ruins with informative plaques on bird watching in the area and the history of the church, which was involved in hideously bloody disputes between the MacDonald and MacLeod clans.

This part of the Isle of Skye is less popular with tourists and the perfect place to enjoy beautiful scenery away from the crowds.

Visit a seal colony from Dunvegan Castle

Drive 26 minutes south from Trumpan Church to Dunvegan Castle and Gardens and park in the carpark across the road. Tickets to visit the castle and surrounding gardens can be bought at the door for £14 per adult.

Before visiting Dunvegan Castle, the traditional home of the MacLeod clan, I recommend walking straight to the jetty to book a boat visit to a nearby seal colony. Boats run every 20 minutes on a first-come-first-served basis and tickets cost £9.50 per adult. Our boat captain shared a few Scottish folk tales and interesting facts about seals, like the markings on their skin being as unique as our fingerprints, as he guided us around small islands to see a colony of common seals. Bring a waterproof jacket as its difficult to avoid getting splashed by the chilly seawater.

After the boat tour, we wandered around the beautiful landscaped gardens and then visited inside the castle, following the set route to see exquisite antique furniture, portraits of former MacLeod clan chiefs, and prized possessions like the Fairy Flag which is said to have brought good luck to the MacLeod clan.

Visit length: 90 minutes

Lunch at The Dunvegan

Drive 2 minutes south to The Dunvegan Deli Cafe for lunch. I recommend the vegan charcuterie board. Yum!

After lunch, walk 2 minutes north along the road to see some locally made jewellery, clothing, art, and notepads at the Makers Market .

Visit the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye at Neist Point

Navigate 32 minutes west to the Neist Point carpark for climactic cliff oceanfront landscapes and the charming Neist Point Lighthouse . It takes about 30 minutes to climb down the steep stairs and follow the dirt path to the lighthouse. Bring a bottle of water as the climb back up to the car park is quite breathtaking – in the un-fit kind of way.

Before heading back to the car, I walked over to the top of the cliffs north from the carpark for the most iconic views over Neist Point and the lighthouse.

Drive 1 hour from Neist Point to the familiar-looking Portree short-term carpark for dinner. I recommend the Taste of India for delicious curries and a cocktail bar.

Day 8 – Isle of Skye to Kyle of Lochalsh

Driving Time: 2.5 hours

Day 8 involves visiting the southeast of the Isle of Skye on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh, where I spent the night to reduce driving time back to Edinburgh the following day.

I checked out of Kiloran Bed and Breakfast at 9:30am, had lunch in Silgachen at 1pm, and checked into my B&B at Kyle of Lochalsh at 5pm.

Walk alongside cascading waterfalls at the Fairy Pools

Drive 1 hour south from Kiloran Bed and Breakfast to the to the Fairy Pools Carpark and walk about 30 minutes down a long rocky path to reach the Fairy Pools . Spend at least 30 minutes walking alongside the cascading waterfalls and admiring the turquoise pools from every angle. Wear suitable shoes as some of the path involves navigating stepping stones across a creek as well as a muddy patch or two.

See more waterfalls at Silgachan

Navigate 25 minutes east to the Silgachan Waterfalls and park in a shoulder on the side of the road. You’ll only need to walk about 5 minutes to reach these waterfalls, which are just as impressive as the Fairy Pools in my opinion.

Visit length: 30 minutes  

Lunch at the Silgachan Hotel

Drive 2 minutes to Seumas’ Bar at the Silgachan Hotel for lunch. I recommend the Mexican 5 bean chilli and a glass of water fresh from the hotel’s natural spring. If the weather is cooperating, you could also wander across the road to quickly visit the Silgachan Old Bridge .

Tour the Talisker Whisky Distillery

After lunch, drive 15 minutes west from Silgachan to Talisker Whisky Distillery to join the 2pm tour. Tours tend to fill up fast so I suggest booking online or by phone at least 48 hours in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets cost £10 per adult.

Our cheerful guide, Gordon, explained the history of Talisker, which dates back to 1830, as well as the history of crafting single malt whisky. He walked us through the modern process of making whisky, showing us the raw ingredient, barley, and the distillery’s mashing, fermentation, and distilling machines. The best part of the tour was saved for last when we got to taste their most popular whisky, Talisker Storm.

After the tour, you can wander around the gift shop and perhaps pick up a bottle or two of whisky to take home.

Find cute highland coos

Navigate 20 minutes east to this super-secret Coo view point to hopefully spot highland coos up close. I drove past to see where the coos were then turned around to pull into the nearest shoulder. It was pouring with sideways rain on the day of my visit, but the coos didn’t seem to mind!

Visit length: 15 minutes

Visit one last waterfall before leaving the Isle of Skye

Drive 3 minutes south to Blackhill Waterfall and pull over into a shoulder on the side of the road. The waterfall is visible from the road, but you can walk over for a closer look if you prefer.

Check into your last B&B

Drive 27 minutes east to check into your last B&B in the Scottish Highlands. I stayed at Seawinds , a simple, yet comfortable accommodation with everything you need for 1 night.

I recommend having dinner at Hector’s Bothy , an 8-minute walk or a 3-minute drive from Seawinds.

Day 9 – Kyle of Lochalsh to Edinburgh

Driving time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Day 9 is the longest driving day with a handful of scenic stops to stretch your legs.

I left Kyle of Lochalsh at 9:30am, had lunch in Fort William at 12pm, and arrived in Edinburgh at 6pm.

Explore Eilean Donan Castle

Drive 13 minutes east from Seawinds to Eilean Donan Castle , a restored 13 th century castle located on a small island at the meeting point of 3 lochs. Tickets can be bought at the door for £10 per adult and includes an audio guide, which leads you on a route through the castle, explaining its 700-year-long history. Highlights include spectacular views over the sea and mountains, a grand hall, and a replica 13 th century kitchen.

Lunch in Fort William

Navigate to the Viewforth Carpark in Fort William, a 90-minute drive southeast from Eilean Donan. Ignore map directions that lead you along the north side of Loch Lochy which is impassable – I found out the hard way.

Once you’ve paid for parking walk along Fort William’s pedestrian street to find a spot for lunch. I recommend the town’s only vegan restaurant, The Wildcat . Tip: try the chocolate cake.

After lunch, drive 10 minutes northeast to Inverlochy Castle to walk through the ruins of a 13th-century castle for free. A 10-minute stop should be plenty.

Stop at the Glencoe Visitors Centre

Drive 32 minutes south to the Glencoe Visitor Centre which has a well-stocked gift shop, several walking trails, and an amazing view of soaring mountain peaks. Parking costs £4 but is worth it for the decent rest stop.

Visit the roaring Falls of Falloch

Stop for a few minutes just east of the visitor centre at the Loch Achtriochtan viewpoint on the side of the road.

Navigate 50 minutes south, leaving the mountainous terrain behind, for the Falls of Falloch and make use of the free carpark.

Follow the footpath all the way to the end for the best views of the waterfall. Don’t abandon the footpath to follow the sound of rushing water via dirt tracks as this will lead you up the garden path. Literally. Trust me, I tried it, stick to the footpath.

Drive to Edinburgh

Drive 2 hours 6 minutes back to Edinburgh to return the hire car. I recommend spending another night at the Radisson Collection to recover from the long drive before returning home the following day.

If you had another day or two up your sleeve you could spend the time in Glasgow, exploring the city, before returning to Edinburgh. I did a fascinating tour of The Clydesdale Distillery (for more free whisky samples!) and devoured a mouth-watering Durty Vegan Burger – the ultimate way to end an epic road trip.

The Bottom Line

Wow! What a whirlwind adventure around the Scottish Highlands! I don’t think I could call this a “wee road trip” anymore. There were just too many memorable moments. We crammed in bagpipes, castles, haggis (the vegan version in my case), seals, coos, sheep, fairies, churches, museums, waterfalls, whisky, and even a mountain that gave me the finger.

My 9-day Scotland road trip itinerary required over 23 hours of driving , but every minute was divine. While each tantalising location begged for more exploration, I gained a tangible taste for their unique personalities. And with this itinerary, so will you.

There’s really only 1 thing that could make this trip even better, laddie… and that’s wearing an orange wig and sporting a harsh Scoooootish accent the entire time.

Oh wait, nah, I’ve already done that.

True story.

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Reader Comments...

Loved your whirlwind trip account! You hit a lot of my favourite places from a small bus trip I took a few years ago but now I am inspired to go back and do a car trip! Thank you!

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36 Hours on Maui

By Shannon Wianecki April 25, 2024

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By Shannon Wianecki Photographs by Michelle Mishina Kunz

Shannon Wianecki grew up in Hawaii and writes about the islands regularly.

Maui is the Goldilocks island: It is neither too big nor too small, and for its three million annual visitors, its perfect year-round temperature, rainbow-splashed volcanic summits and sugary beaches are just right. But last August, Maui’s equilibrium met disaster. Catastrophic wildfires reduced the historic town of Lahaina to ash, claiming more than 100 lives . Conflicting messages urged visitors to stay away and let the island heal, but also to come and help sustain the economy. Eight months later, the message is more unified that Maui is ready to greet tourists again. Housing remains a critical need for displaced residents. Lahaina will take years to rebuild. But Maui’s inherent beauty and hospitality remain as vibrant as ever. It’s a great time to explore Central and South Maui, where new cocktail bars, outrigger canoe tours and Indigenous art exhibits reveal the community’s creativity and resilience.

Recommendations

• The 10,000-foot summit of Haleakalā National Park (pronounced with an emphasis on “la”) has a view of the rising sun, volcanic vistas and some of the planet’s rarest plants and birds.
• The Hale Hō‘ike‘ike museum showcases Hawaiian artwork, carved deities and a redwood plank surfboard owned by the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
• Balai Pata is a new restaurant that celebrates Filipino flavors with savory soups, desserts big enough for two and monthly karaoke nights.
• The Wailea Beach Path meanders along South Maui’s photogenic coast between posh resorts and the deep blue Pacific.
• The hiking trails at ‘Īao Valley State Monument (pronounced EE-ow) penetrate the lush West Maui Mountains, winding past waterfalls and taro patches.
• Enormous murals by Small Town Big Art , a public art project, in colorful and historic Wailuku town, are worth taking a stroll to see, and they’re navigable by an online map.
• Blue Water Rafting ’s exhilarating tours of the Kanaio Coast explore hidden coves, sea caves and charismatic marine life.
• Ho‘okipa Beach Park , one of the world’s top surf spots, is also a great place to spy on napping sea turtles.
• Oao Sushi Bar & Grill offers beautifully prepared Japanese fare, such as inventive sushi rolls and purple-yam pot de crème, in a Wailea shopping center.
• Tikehau Lounge serves seasonal craft cocktails made with local spirits and garnished with tiny katana swords and surfboards.
• Kaohu Store is a mom-and-pop grocery that produces the island’s best poke, raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed.
• Tails Up Maui , a partnership between a local chef and a fisherman, serves excellent fish sandwiches and chicken plates.
• Wailuku Coffee Co. is the place to stop for Maui-grown coffee or espresso while exploring Wailuku.
• Esters Fair Prospect , a charming tropical bar on Wailuku’s Main Street, serves daiquiris made with a choice of three dozen rums and appetizers featuring fresh marlin.
• Mama’s Fish House , a celebrated restaurant on a secluded lagoon, lists the names of the fishermen who caught the snapper and octopus on its menu.
• On Saturday mornings, the Upcountry Farmers Market is a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a bounty of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods.
• ‘Oko‘a Farm Store sells a cornucopia of organic tropical fruits and vegetables in fresh, dried and powdered form.
• T. Komoda Store and Bakery , which has served the Maui community for more than a century, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily.
• Sabado Art Gallery is where the local artist Philip Sabado paints, teaches workshops and sells his color-saturated impressions of Maui landscapes and hula dancers.
• Native Intelligence offers a wealth of Hawaiian art and fashion: Locals come here for Aloha shirts and sarongs, fine jewelry and fresh flower leis.
• Four Seasons Resort Maui sets the standard for service with poolside spritzes, immaculate housekeeping and a terrific complimentary kids’ camp. Guests can book spa treatments in oceanfront huts and outrigger canoe excursions that launch from the resort’s adjoining beach. Rooms start at $1,095 a night.
• Hotel Wailea is an adults-only boutique hotel on a hill overlooking South Maui. While not directly on the beach, it’s only a short shuttle ride away. Elegant suites are spacious (750 square feet with kitchenettes) and the Birdcage lounge is a prime spot for toasting the sunset. Rooms start at $799.
• Maui Kamaole is a condo complex across the street from Kama‘ole Beach Park III, between Wailea and Kihei on Maui’s south shore. One- and two-bedroom units feature full kitchens, laundry facilities and lush landscaping. Rooms start at $500.
• Since the recent fire intensified the housing shortage, visitors should avoid short-term rentals in residential areas. Instead, book hotels that offer in-room kitchens, such as Fairmont Kea Lani or Mana Kai Maui .
• The best way to explore the island is by car . The major rental companies each have kiosks at Kahului Airport. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, but long distances between destinations make this an expensive option. Maui’s public transit is limited. The Maui Bus operates 12 routes, including two that stop at the airport. One-way fares cost $2; day passes are $4.

Wailea Beach Path

The Wailea Beach Path , which meanders along the island’s southern coast, reflects Maui’s almost contradictory personas: On one side, opulent resorts flaunt swim-up bars and nightly torch-lighting ceremonies. A subtler drama unfolds on the opposite side, where native flora like honey-scented naio bushes, spiky hala trees and hibiscus blossoms flourish along the rocky shoreline. Sit and listen to the sea rush through the lava rocks as the sun drops between three islands: Lanai, Kahoolawe and tiny Molokini. In the 1970s, nine Native Hawaiians occupied Kahoolawe in defiance of the U.S. military, which had been using the island as a bombing range for decades. Their daring protest sparked what is now known as the Hawaiian Renaissance — a revival of Indigenous culture that continues today.

Head to Oao Sushi Bar & Grill in the Wailea area for beautifully prepared Japanese fare. The owner and head chef, J.R. Oao, sharpened his knife at Maui’s best sushi bars (including a stint at Nobu Lana‘i) before opening his first brick-and-mortar restaurant last year (he also has a food truck in Kihei, a few miles north). His signature rolls are balanced and inventive: Try the baked California roll ($22), served hot and loaded with shrimp and scallops. Juicy seared lamb chops rest on a smear of umami-rich red miso ($42). Even the salads impress — bright cilantro vinaigrette with a hint of horseradish enlivens a simple mix of Maui-grown greens, roasted corn and goat cheese ($16). For dessert, the ube pot de crème ($14), made from purple yam, is luscious, light and almost cartoonishly bright.

The name of Tikehau , a new lounge in Wailea, means “peaceful landing.” The bar, which opened in November and is quietly raising the standard for craft cocktails statewide, was true to its name for Mari Howe, its manager, and other staff who came to work here after losing jobs or homes to the Lahaina fire. Everything is thoughtfully selected, from the gold-leaf wallpaper to the crystal stemware. Garnishes are coveted souvenirs; a tiny surfboard floats atop the Thousand Peaks ($19) — a lagoon-blue Paloma topped with jasmine-tea “sea foam.” The Hawaiian Samurai ($50), a top-shelf-whiskey libation, comes with a miniature katana sword. Ms. Howe’s seasonal menu incorporates local spirits and mixers: fresh pineapple juice, Kō Hana rum and okolehao, a moonshine made from Hawaiian ti plants. Upscale snacks include poisson cru, a raw-fish dish ($25), and smoked taro hummus ($15).

Explore the rugged Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves with a rafting tour.

This morning mission requires preparation. First, book a sunrise reservation at Haleakalā National Park well in advance ($1 permit, $30 park entrance). Then pack really warm clothes. In the darkness, drive slowly up the 10,000-foot volcano; fog often obscures cattle and native geese loitering in hairpin turns. Your efforts will be rewarded at the peak — first by the velvet sky awash with stars, then by the sun’s rays spilling across the fire-forged mountain. Notice how the silverswords (hedgehog-like plants that grow only here) sparkle in the golden light. As you descend, stop at Hosmer Grove , where a short hike leads to a forest full of Hawaiian honeycreepers , birds that are among some of the planet’s rarest.

Midway down Haleakalā, stop at the Upcountry Farmers Market . Every Saturday morning, the Kulamalu Town Center parking lot turns into a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a dizzying array of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods. You’ll find things to eat immediately — fresh coconut, vegan sweet-potato cheesecake and Venezuelan arepas — as well as things to stash in your suitcase, like passion-fruit butter and macadamia nuts. Don’t miss the ‘Oko‘a Farm Store , which migrated from the market into an adjacent storefront. The store’s 46-acre farm supplies a cornucopia of tropical fruits and vegetables; its shelves teem with jars of pickled, powdered, and freeze-dried treats and tonics.

Baldwin Avenue

Take the scenic drive back to sea level through historic Makawao and Paia towns. Bordered by a rodeo arena and a polo field , Makawao is the charming headquarters of the paniolo, Hawaiian cowboys who continue to rope and ride across the island’s lush ranchlands. On the corner of Makawao and Baldwin Avenues you’ll see T. Komoda Store and Bakery ; this beloved family-run business, which has served the community since 1916, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily. Follow Baldwin past the defunct sugar mill to Paia. Once a busy sugar plantation hub surrounded by green cane fields, it’s now home to surfers and artists. As you pass Baldwin Beach, admire the view of the rain-carved West Maui Mountains. The morning light often reveals the hidden interior of ‘Īao Valley, your next destination.

Wailuku River

Head to Kaohu Store in Wailuku for lunch to go. This mom-and-pop grocery offers the island’s best poke — raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed (from $18 a pound). Add two scoops of rice and crunchy fern salad for a truly local meal. If you prefer a cooked lunch, visit Tails Up Maui for a classy fish sandwich ($19) or mochiko (rice flour) fried chicken ($17). Take your picnic to Kepaniwai Park , where model houses commemorate the diverse cultures of Hawaii’s sugar plantation era, and dip your feet into the Wailuku River. Continue to ‘ Īao Valley State Monument (out-of-state visitors need reservations; $5 entrance fee, $10 parking). Paved walkways wind through a traditional lo‘i kalo (taro patch), past multiple waterfalls and up to a stunning lookout.

Peruse the art and artifacts at Hale Hō‘ike‘ike , a captivating repository of Hawaiian culture in the former home of the missionary-artist Edward Bailey. Exhibits showcase Hawaiian feather work and quilts, carved deities, and paintings depicting 19th-century Maui. Imagine trying to paddle the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku’s redwood plank surfboard into the waves (entry, $10). From there, stroll through Wailuku, Maui’s somewhat sleepy seat of local government. Narrow side streets yield many treasures: See enormous street murals (use the online map by Small Town Big Art , a public art project), admire the color-saturated paintings at Sabado Art Gallery and find refreshment at Wailuku Coffee Co. or Esters Fair Prospect , a cocktail bar. After shopping for Hawaiian books and clothing at Native Intelligence , buy yourself a fragrant flower lei to wear for the duration of your trip.

At Balai Pata , a new Filipino restaurant in Kahului, a celebration of the flavors that the chef and owner Joey Macadangdang grew up with is a welcome addition to Maui’s restaurant scene. Plump Kauai prawns sauteed in garlicky fish sauce ($17) set the stage for savory sinigang ($30) — tamarind broth loaded with long beans, okra and fish. For dessert, two can share the halo-halo ($18) — crushed ice topped with avocado, ube ice cream, coconut cream and fruit jellies, served in a coconut shell. The décor reflects a bright, homespun aesthetic, and once a month, local families fill the restaurant for late-night happy hour and karaoke battles — check Instagram for dates.

Jumping into a pool in Kepaniwai Park.

Blue Water Rafting

A trip to Maui isn’t complete without ducking underwater to spy on clouds of striped manini fish, eagle rays and turtles. While most snorkel tours start at Mā‘alaea Harbor, Blue Water Rafting boards at the Kihei boat ramp — offering easier access and one of the only tours of Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves ($179, four hours). Climb into the rigid-hulled raft beside two dozen other passengers (fewer than the big tour boats) and watch for dolphins. In winter, close encounters with whales are common. As you peer into the pristine bay formed by Maui’s youngest lava flow, imagine the Polynesian wayfinders sailing here centuries ago, followed by the French explorer La Pérouse in 1786. The ride is exhilarating but bumpy.

Don’t be shy: Wear your flower lei to lunch at Mama’s Fish House . Old-style hospitality reigns at this celebrated restaurant on a sheltered lagoon. Servers greet you in vintage Aloha wear and offer complimentary bowls of poi (pounded taro — a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet). The menu is pricey but worthy; long before it was fashionable, Mama’s listed who caught each fish and where. A recent menu featured sea bass hooked by Ivan Ventura in Hana ($68). If you ordered only dessert, you’d still leave happy; the Polynesian Black Pearl ($24) is an edible version of “The Birth of Venus”: chocolate mousse and passion fruit ensconced in a cookie seashell. Tables can book up a year out. After lunch, drive two minutes east to Ho‘okipa Beach Park , where surfers carve waves and sea turtles bask on the sand.

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Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

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Sarasota:   Kayak through mangroves, take a Black history trolley tour and spot dolphins  from a white-sand beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Mérida:   Rich in culture and history , this young and artsy Mexican city is an antidote to the wall-to-wall all-inclusive resorts of the Yucatán coast. ​​

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