A relaxing and calm environment is all that we desire when we go on vacations. Even a slight discomfort may ruin the mood for the trip. You definitely don’t want this to happen when you go on your next trip to Scotland. Hence, here is a list of the best places to visit in Scotland that will come in handy in deciding your plans.
With this list, we cover all the major attractions in Scotland that you cannot miss. From the bustling capital to the gorgeous Isle of Skye, there are many places to visit in Scotland.
For people who seek cultural activities, Edinburgh is the right place. On the contrary, nature enthusiasts love the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness. Hence, it is safe to say that Scotland provides something for everyone.
What is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?
There’s not a particular best time to visit Scotland as it provides different perks in different seasons.
For instance, many people visit this country during the Summer months because of the calm weather. It further facilitates people going to the beaches, increasing the crowds. In addition, you will likely attract annoying midges that will irritate you to hell.
As mentioned, summer is the busiest season in Scotland. Hence, we suggest visiting it during the autumn season. The weather is fine, and you can see most attractions without worrying about the crowds. Furthermore, you can say bye-bye to the midges in these times.
Best Places to Visit in Scotland
Best Places to Visit in Scotland (1-3)
1. Edinburgh
Your trip to Scotland will feel incomplete if you don’t visit its capital city. Edinburgh fills itself with a rich history and evolution. How? Because you will find several medieval monuments, including Edinburgh Castle and the New Town area.
Furthermore, Edinburgh organizes some of the world’s famous and largest cultural festivals. These include the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and more. Each of these cultural events attracts tourists from all over the world.
One of the many reasons Edinburgh is at the top of the list of best places to visit in Scotland is because of its elegant and well-structured area. The cafes, galleries, shops, restaurants, and all other buildings bring out the real British experience.
- What is it: Capital City of Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Go shopping in Victoria Street and view the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Furthermore, you can attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
- Best Hotels in Edinburgh: Hilton Edinburgh Carlton, Castle Rock Hostel, etc.
2. Fort William
Fort William is a small town in Scotland filled with many stunning attractions. This small town emerged during the 17th century, and since then, it has been a favorite attraction for many.
One of the primary attractions of Fort William is the Ben Nevis Ski Center. The intriguing part is that you can ride the cable car to reach the mountain restaurant in Ben Nevis.
The West Highland Museum is also a place you cannot afford to miss. The museum has a collection of various artifacts, including weapons, paintings, Highland costumes, etc.
If you are a potter head, this place is sure to fascinate you. In many Harry Potter films, Fort William has been on the route used by Hogwart Express to take students to school. At last, boarding the vintage Jacobite steam train will be an experience for life.
- What is it: Town in Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Ride the cable car to reach the mountain restaurant at Ben Nevis, go skiing at the Ben Nevis Ski Center, and aboard the vintage Jacobite Steam Train.
- Hotels: Guisachan Guesthouse, Myrtle Bank, Travelodge Fort William
3. The Isle Of Skye
When in Scotland, you cannot ignore the beautiful Scottish Islands. One such island is the Isle of Skye. This island is laden with lush forests and full of vegetation. Furthermore, the native wildlife enhances the beauty of the Isle of Skye. It is easy to reach the island as a road bridge connects it with the Scottish mainland.
The well-developed trail network in the Isle of Skye is a delight for any hiker. These trails lead tourists to some of the most romantic places, including the Cuillin Hills.
As for the man-made interests, the Isle of Skye has the Armadale Castle. The 19th century witnessed the formation of this castle. It includes various artifacts and paintings of the Donalds (Scotland’s most famous and historic clan). All these activities and attractions make the Isle of Skye a worthy candidate to be on your list of best places to visit in Scotland.
- What is it: An Island in Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Explore this beautiful Island of Scotland by hiking the Old Man of Storr and seeing dinosaur prints and the Kilt Falls.
- Hotels: Redwood House, The Flodigarry Hotel, Viewfield House
Best Places to Visit in Scotland (4-6)
4. Scottish Highlands
Scottish Highlands stretches from Inverness to the northern coast of John O’Groats. Romantic sceneries are all you will find in Scottish Highlands, making it the best place to visit in Scotland with your partner. Furthermore, this place has served as the primary romantic location in various movies and TV shows.
At its core, the Scottish Highlands has the beautiful Loch Ness. It is mainly popular because of the Urquhart Castle and lakes. Ideally, start your journey from the lovely garden city of Inverness and then head towards Loch Ness.
Other popular sites in Scottish Highlands that you must visit include Dornoch, Aviemore (for skiing), Cairngorms National park (for hiking and biking), etc.
One thing you cannot miss in Scottish Highlands is to drive through the North Coast 500. This route will lead you to the best places to visit in Scotland while also sightseeing in many romantic places.
- What is it: Mountains in the UK
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Visit the various romantic places in Scottish Highlands, drive through the iconic North Coast 500, and much more.
- Hotels: Highland Hotel, Glengarry Castle Hotel, The Torridon
5. St Andrews
For a golf enthusiast, St Andrews is the place. Many people even refer to it as the pilgrimage for golfers worldwide. Why? Because it possesses the world’s oldest golf course (the par-72 Old Course).
Furthermore, it also houses the world’s oldest golf club – Royal and Ancient Golf Club. The beautiful golf courses, stunning sceneries, and many more make it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Hence, calling it a pilgrimage is justifiable. You can also visit the British Golf Club to know more about its history in St Andrews.
Besides Golf, the place is also famous for the ruins of St. Andrews Castle, its beaches, and the Cathedral. If time does not hold you, visiting these places is a must.
- What is it: A town located in Scotland
- Fun things to do: Cherrish the moments on the beach of St Andrews, and visit the St Andrews Cathedral and Castle. Furthermore, you can gain knowledge about Golf and its history in St Andrews’ Golf Museum.
- Hotels: The Scores Hotel, Rusacks St Andrews, etc.
Also Read: Best Things to do in Cornwall
6. Perth
It is not uncommon to confuse this Perth with the one in Australia. However, Perth in Scotland is one of the best places to visit. In fact, this city was once the capital of Scotland. Also known as the ‘Fair City,’ Perth remains a place you cannot afford to miss.
Best things to do in Perth, Scotland, include visiting Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, Concorde Music, Fortingall Yew Tree, etc. The city has a rich history of kings and queens, which will intrigue the geeks.
If you are a Beethoven lover, Concorde Music is the place. In Perth, Scotland, every type of person gets what they want. Hence, visiting this place becomes a necessity.
- What is it: City of Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Visit the Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, Concorde Music, and many more famous attractions.
- Hotels: Mercure Perth Hotel, Travelodge Perth Broxden Junction
Best Places to Visit in Scotland (7-10)
7. Glasgow
One of the most popular places to visit in Scotland is Glasgow. With River Clyde alongside, Glasgow has become a major European tourist attraction. Glasgow has various museums, organizes festivals, and much more all year-round. Hence, it does not matter when you reach Glasgow because something is happening here almost every time.
Furthermore, don’t forget to visit the Glasgow School of Art to see some of the finest arts in Europe. After you explore the city center, your next stop should be the Riverside Museum. Luckily, this museum does not cost anything to its visitors, but the facilities are world-class.
Other main attractions in Glasgow include the cultural activities in its theatres and operas, Kelvingrove Art Gallery, St George’s Square, etc.
- What is it: Port City of Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Visit the Riverside Museum and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. In addition, you can fully heal yourself at St George’s Square.
- Hotels: Safestay Glasgow City, Travelodge Glasgow Queen Street, etc.
8. Inverness
As mentioned, Inverness lies in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Hence, it is inevitable for you to visit this city while you are in the Scottish mountain ranges. Furthermore, Inverness lies near Scotland’s most popular lake. Hence, you must add Inverness to your list of the best places to visit in Scotland.
This city is famous for the endless fun things you can do here. First and foremost, you will mostly walk in the streets of Inverness and experience the lovely environment. Your journey usually starts from Inverness Castle, which then takes you to the sights of River Ness and Ness Islands.
Other major attractions include the St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Inverness Museum, Art Gallery, etc. Furthermore, you can also visit the Victorian Market for some shopping and Scotland’s largest second-hand book store.
- What is it: City in Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Visit the Inverness castle when the sun is about to set to see some iconic views. If you are a book enthusiast, visit Scotland’s largest second-hand book store.
- Hotels: Royal Highland Hotel, Columba Hotel, etc.
9. Stirling
Another addition to the best places to visit in Scotland is Stirling. This historic town has so much to offer that you won’t be able to finish the list of things to do in Stirling. Fortunately, the city lies halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh, making it highly approachable.
The first thing you should visit in Stirling is the ruins of Stirling Castle. Historically, this place was a royal palace and played a vital role in the battle between Scotland and England.
Stirling has to be on your list of best places to visit in Scotland because of the famous Wallace Monument and Bannockburn Heritage Centre (which retells the Battle of Bannockburn).
If you have more time for your Stirling itinerary, you must visit every attraction in the city as each of them is worth your time.
- What is it: City located in Central Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Visit the Stirling Castle, National Wallace Monument, and much more.
- Hotels: The Golden Lion Hotel, Travelodge Stirling City, etc.
10. Loch Ness
Various myths and legends have surrounded Scotland’s one of the most visited places, Loch Ness. People believe that it is home to the sea monster, Nessie. However, there is no conclusive evidence of his existence, but the legend amazes the tourists.
Besides the monster legends, many famous TV series and movies used this place. For instance, Urquhart Castle has been a go-to destination for most directors and even tourists. It will take you at least a day to explore this historic castle.
Other fun things to do in Loch Ness include boarding the Loch cruise, visiting the Caledonian Canal, Loch Ness Center, exhibitions in Drumnadrochit, and whatnot! You must not miss this best place to visit in Scotland as you will have experience for life.
- What is it: Large freshwater Loch in Scotland
- Official website: Click here
- Fun things to do: Use the walking trails to stroll around the Loch. Furthermore, visit the Urquhart Castle and board the Loch cruise.
- Hotels: Loch Ness Lodge Hotel, Clansman Hotel, etc.
FAQs
How much time do I need to spend exploring Scotland?
We always recommend spending at least 9 to 10 days in this beautiful country to explore all the famous attractions. This way, you can visit and fully enjoy your trip to Scotland. However, five days are also sufficient if you do not have much time.
How do Scottish people greet tourists?
Scottish people are some of the most hospitable people you will ever meet. Studies from Cambridge University prove the statement that Scottish people are friendly and cooperative people. Hence, you are sure to have a good time in Scotland.
How is the weather in Scotland?
During the summer, the temperature averages between 15–17 °C (59–63 °F). It is the time when the crowds are at their peak. The weather is moderate and suitable for travel. On the other hand, the temperature can go as low as 0 °C (32 °F).
What foods should I try when in Scotland?
Scotland provides a wide array of delicacies that will satisfy your taste buds. When in Scotland, make sure to taste these cuisines:
1. Scotch Pies
2. Haggis
3. Scottish Porridge
4. Cullen Skink
5. Neeps and Tatties
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