Scotland Tourist Attractions Map
Looking for things to do in Scotland? This tourist map highlights the best attractions to help you plan the perfect Scottish sightseeing tour. Scroll around the map and click on each icon to visit the attraction information pages.
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Recommended Tourist Attractions in Scotland
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most beautiful part of scotland.
There is no single ‘most beautiful’ part of Scotland, but there are a few areas that are widely regarded as being particularly beautiful. These include the Isle of Skye (especially the Quiraing), Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glenfinnan, and the Isle of Lewis and Harris.
Other places that are considered amongst the most beautiful in Scotland are Edinburgh for its atmospheric medieval buildings, Cairngorm National Park for its dramatic mountain ranges, and Pitlochry for its unspoilt forests.
What should you not miss when visiting Scotland?
Must-do’s for anyone visiting Scotland include Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, the Isle of Skye (especially the Quiraing, the Fairy Pools, and the Storr), Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Loch Ness, and the Cairngorm National Park.
Visitors on an extended tour of Scotland should try to include; Glasgow city centre, Stirling Castle, Ben Nevis, the Isles of Mull and Islay, and the North Coast 500 route.
What is the best area to stay in Scotland?
The best area to stay in depends on how long you intend to spend in Scotland and where you will be travelling to.
Edinburgh is a recommended place to stay to explore the city, the Scottish Borders, and Central Scotland. Glasgow is a recommended place to stay to explore the city, the Trossachs, Strathclyde, and Dumfries & Galloway. Portree is a recommended place to stay to explore the Isle of Skye. Fort William is a recommended place to stay to explore the Highlands. Inverness is a recommended place to stay to explore the North Highlands.
What is the best time of year to visit Scotland?
The best time to visit Scotland depends on where you will be visiting, however, May is usually warm, midge-free, has low average rainfall, and is cheaper as it is out of the peak tourist season.
The two largest cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow have many attractions within a small area which can be enjoyed at all times of the year, and Edinburgh, in particular, has superb Christmas festivals in December.
The Highlands are extraordinarily beautiful in summer (June to August) but they are often plagued by midges. May and September in the Highlands see warm temperatures, fewer midges, and fewer tourists than in summer. Winter is generally best avoided for all but the most hardened hillwalkers.
One Week in Scotland
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Glasgow Guide
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Scottish Highlands
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Weather & Climate
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Places to Visit
The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland
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Visit some of these 15 top destinations in Scotland and you will quickly understand how exciting and different this country is from the other nations in the United Kingdom. Its landscapes are wilder, its mountains more dramatic, its islands more mystical and each of its cities unique. This quick guide should give you a flavor of what to expect.
TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald
Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, in the country's southeast near the Firth of Forth is a buzzy university city, and a cultural feast with one of the world's greatest open access performing arts festivals - The Edinburgh Fringe. Spread around an extinct volcanic plug, its character is diverse. A medieval old town perches across the Princes Street gardens from the 18th century, Georgian new town. The famous Royal Mile climbs from a historic palace past the architectural marvel of the Scottish Parliament to the spectacular castle fortress that is Edinburgh Castle . Museums are world class, the seafood is amazing and from every angle it is truly lovely.
TripSavvy / Christopher Larson
Scotland's most populous city, this port on the Firth of Clyde was once a shipbuilding powerhouse. These days its Clydeside waterfront is the newest cultural district, with the distinctive Riverside Museum of Transport , the new Glasgow Science Center - like a giant silver beetle - and the SSE Hydro, a sports and concert venue, joining the nearby Kelvingrove Museum as architectural landmarks. Glasgow is a youthful, forward looking place with a contemporary art scene spurred on by its famous art school, alternative music and theatre. And Billy Connolly's hometown continues to produce a steady stream of edgy comedy talent.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Ferne Arfin
Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater body in the UK, straddles the the Highland Fault Line that separates the Highlands from the Lowlands.The National Park that surrounds it is equally divided between soft, rolling heather covered hills and higher peaks that are shrouded in deep evergreen forests below before breaking through the treeline and into the clouds. This is romantic Rob Roy country and you can visit the atmospheric churchyard in Balquhidder where the Robin Hood of the Highlands and his family are buried. It's a terrific area for family camping , boating and fishing, gentle cycling or hiking on well groomed trails around the loch and mountain biking a bit higher up. And it's all less than an hour from Glasgow so very easy to reach.
St Andrews - The Home of Golf
If you love a good game of golf and you enjoy having golfers' bragging rights in the clubhouse, visiting St. Andrews, the birthplace of the game , should be high on your bucket list. It's easy to reach by road, about 13.5 miles southeast of Dundee on the North Sea coast.
There are seven golf courses in St Andrews but St Andrews Old Course is the one golfers with a taste for history aim for. Golf was first played on this course 600 years ago. Despite its pedigree, the course is on public land and anyone with an appropriate handicap (24 for men, 36 for women) can apply to pay the moderate greens fee and book the course . There's also a ballot for last minute bookings and a generous policy of trying to accommodate single golfers on the day of play.
Dundee - UNESCO City of Design
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If you expect to find Dundee Marmalade in Dundee you're about 100 years too late. Today, this small city on the River Tay estuary near the east coast of Scotland, is the UK's only UNESCO City of Design, renowned for its creativity and contribution to sustainable development through design. As a visitor, you can enjoy this at the stunning new V&A Museum - the first branch of the museum outside of London and Scotland's first and only design museum. While there, visit the RRS Discovery , the research ship that took Scott of the Antarctic and fellow explorer Ernest Shackleton on their first successful expedition, and the HMS Frigate Unicorn, is the oldest British-built warship still afloat and one of the six oldest ships in the world.
The Scottish Borders
The area known as the Scottish Borders, between Lothian and Edinburgh to the north and the English border at Northumberland to the south, is packed with things to do. From mountain biking and hiking adventures for softies to salmon fishing in the Tweed and connections to the most important historic, literary and royal figures of Alba. Some say that Robert the Bruce's heart is buried in a lead casket at Melrose Abbey. Mary Queen of Scots took refuge at Traquair House , the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. And Sir Walter Scott's home, Abbotsford House , is the Medieval fantasy of the creator of Ivanhoe . Stop to admire Scott's View, his favorite vista, near Dryburgh Abbey where the famous author is buried.
Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms is one of the UK's wildest and emptiest regions. It has hundreds of footpaths, cycle trails and mountain biking trails to explore, 50 of Scotland's Munros (mountains of more than 3,000 feet), and fabulous opportunities for wildlife spotting. The 90-mile Snow Road Scenic Route is the highest public road in the UK, a hair-raising drive lined with incredible views, atmospheric villages and local attractions. Winter sports enthusiasts head for the Cairngorms in Scotland's central highlands for skiing and snowboarding. The year round resort of Aviemore is a good base for snow sports, watersports on several lochs and access to deep romantic forests. And the Queen loves the Cairngorms. Her Scottish estate, Balmoral , is right in the middle of the park.
The Great Glen
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The Great Glen is a natural geological fault that crosses Scotland diagonally from Fort William at the top of the sea loch, Loch Linnhe, to Inverness on the Moray Firth. It separates the Grampian Mountains from the North West Highlands. Several lochs lie along it. The most famous is Loch Ness, but the Great Glen also includes the smaller Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. In the early 19th century, the Caledonian Canal was created to connect the lochs and provide water route across the country from the North Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea. It was quickly too small to be of any commercial use. But it has become a natural playground - a place for boating, cycling and hiking the canal paths, visiting the castles and historic sites along the route, camping and wildlife watching. The 117-mile Great Glen Way is a popular, village to village walking route through the Glen.
Visitors have voted Glencoe Scotland's most romantic glen. And that's only partly because of its tragic history of betrayal and murder . Today, the 12-mile long glen, lined with eight high Scottish mountains, is a beautiful setting for extraordinary mountain walks - from gentle wildflower meadow walks along the base of the glen to exciting winter hikes and climbs with mountaineering guides. One of Scotland's most ancient landscapes - the remnant of a volcanic caldera formed 450 million years ago - it is photographers' heaven with the sky and mountains forming dramatic images at every turn. If you are not into mountaineering, you can still enjoy a superb view from the Three Sisters Car Park on the A82 . And if you like to dip into local history, visit the family friendly Glencoe and North Lorn Folk Museum set out in two original 18th century thatched crofters cottages.
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle was already a formidable fortress when William Wallace defeated the English at Stirling Bridge. The castle, the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, stands on a volcanic rock on the border between the Highlands and the Lowlands and seems almost indestructible. After Robert the Bruce's victory at nearby Bannockburn, he had the walls destroyed to prevent it falling into English hands. But they were rebuilt more than once on the castle's strong foundations. It was at the center of Scotland's wars of independence in the 13th and early 14th century and still becomes a rallying symbol whenever talk of Scottish independence is in the air. Find out more about what makes Stirling Castle one of Scotland's top 10 Castles
Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan - the Hollow Mountain
At certain times of day the waters of beautiful Loch Awe in Argyll seem mirror still. At other times they are choppy enough to capsize the unwary in small boats. That's because the loch is part of an amazing hydroelectric generating plant one kilometer deep in the adjacent Munro, Ben Cruachan. At time of low demand, water is pumped up to a reservoir at the top of the mountain. Later, is pours down through turbines within the mountain, generating electricity. Don slickers and wellies and join a minibus tour that takes visitors deep into the mountain to see the cavernous turbine hall and exhibitions. Adventurous walkers can also hike up the mountain to see the massive dam and reservoir that are the other end of the hydroelectric circuit.
The Isle of Skye
Some of Scotland's most rugged, dramatic landscapes and natural wonders - like the Old Man of Storr, and the Fairy Pools pictured here - are on the Isle of Skye, the biggest of the Inner Hebrides. Its wildlife spotting opportunities include colonies of sea otters, seals and birds of prey. Visit its tiny, colorful villages, like Portree, the island capital, and see the oldest continually occupied castle in Scotland, Dunvegan , ancestral home of the clan Macleod. Get there by ferry from Mallaig near Fort William or by bridge from the Kyle of Lochalsh on the west coast. The drive along the A87 to the Skye Bridge , especially along the shores of Loch Cluanie and past Eilean Donan Castle , (pictured at the top of this story) deserves the description of awesome. Find out what makes iconic Eilean Donan one of Scotland's top castles.
The Shetlands
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Shetland is an archipelago of islands about 50 miles northeast of Orkney and about 105 miles from the Scottish mainland. There are at least 100 islands in the group but only 16 of them are inhabited. The islands lie at the mid-point between the North Sea and the Norwegian Sea. Get there by ferry or plane .
These are the ancient, subarctic landscapes where Scandinavia meets Britain. The largest settlement and capital of the islands is Lerwick. It's home to one of the UK's most colorful fire festivals - Up Helly Aa - a midwinter Viking themed event that ends with the launch of a burning Viking ship into the sea. You've no doubt heard of Fair Isle sweaters - named for one of the islands - and Shetland ponies. Yes, Shetland has both of those. But it also has some of the wildest, most dramatic landscapes marked by bizarre rock formations, crystal clear pools and spring fed waterfalls. It's a great place for wildlife watching - otters, seals, huge puffin colonies and all kinds of sea birds, walking, cycling, fishing and photography. And, if you are lucky, you may get to see the Northern Lights.
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Orkney is an archipelago off the northeast coast of Scotland. The main island, alternatively called Orkney or Mainland, is about 45 miles from the ferry port on the Scottish mainland at Scrabster.
The islands are washed by the Gulf stream so milder in winter than you might expect for a place so far north. They are popular for hiking, shipwreck diving in Scapa Flow and wildlife watching.
But the main attraction for most visitors in the UNESCO World Heritage site, The Heart of Neolithic Orkney . It's a remarkable collection of monuments - standing stones, stone circles and chambered tombs and even a village, Skara Brae, uncovered from beneath the sand during a 19th century storm. The ruins on Orkney are more than 5,000 years old - older than the Pyramids - and their level of sophistication is shedding new light on how the British Isles were populated and civilized.
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Islay (pronounced AYE-la) Is the home of one Scotland's distinctive whisky types - peaty, smoky flavored single malts. There are eight working distilleries currently on the 25-mile-long island, each with their own secret springs and peat supplies. The oldest, Bowmore, founded in 1779, is open to visitors. Others on the island that you can visit include Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Kilchoman, Bunnahabhain, and Lagavulin.
The distilleries are the main reason for visiting this Hebridean island, a short flight from Glasgow or a slightly longer ferry trip off the West Coast of Scotland. Besides tours, and tastings, visitors are encouraged to approach whisky tastings like wine tasting, learning about all the qualities to look for. Depending upon how deep your pockets are, you might have a chance to dig peat, learn about whisky making or have your own privately labeled bottling. There is nothing quite like watching a sunset from an Islay beach while sipping whisky accompanied by shortbread and chocolate.
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Interactive Scotland Map
Updated 2013-06-03
How to use the Scotland Map :
Hold down the left side of your mouse, and drag the image in any direction. Click on the + symbol to zoom in, and the – symbol to zoom out. Alternatively, if you point your cursor to an area, a double click lets you zoom in and show more towns in that area.
Have a go, you’ll soon get the hang of it, it’s amazing, and it’s fun too.
Travel Guides And Maps If you are planning a self guided tour of the country, then a good travel map is essential. In some remote parts, like the Highlands for example, you could find yourself waiting a while to see someone to ask directions.
Cheap Flights This incredible search facility returns results and price comparisons from hundreds of travel companies to provide you with the lowest air fares.
Scotland Hotels Search the best Scotland hotels in major cities, towns and regions. Get information on the surrounding area and attractions before your visit.
Scottish Weather Yes, our weather is changeable and unpredictable, but usually quite moderate, which is a blessing considering where we are on the map.
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Scotland - places of Tourist Interest Map
Fife and Loch Maree are two of the most notable places of interest throughout Scotland .
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Places to visit.
Looking for Things to do in Scotland?
To help you choose the places to visit on your Scotland tour, we have created a Tourist Map.
This map highlights some of the major tourists attractions as well as some of the less obvious places.
How it Works...
Just click on the “symbols” in the map and you will get links to our information sheets about these places.
The information sheets give details on admission fees, opening times, wheelchair accessibility, languages, facilities and our reviews of the visitor experience.
We can help you decide what’s worth doing and what’s not.
We tell you if we think they are interesting, good value, entertaining for children and worth visiting.
We also warn you if we think they are overpriced, overrated, boring or missable.
You can research our “Places to Visit” list in different ways.
If you already know where you want to go, you can search by place name in the list below.
Or maybe you want to search for a particular type of tourist attraction. In that case you can choose from the following themes:
- Historical Sites (e.g. standing stones, battlefields etc).
- Castles & Palaces
- Museums & Art Galleries
- Food & Drink (e.g. Distilleries, Breweries, Smokehouses)
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Bubbly Tourist
The best scotland itinerary and map with must see places and things to do.
Bubbly Tourist created this itinerary of Scotland based on a recent road trip. Whether you have 4, 7 or 14 days you can use our itinerary to identify the best places you may want to visit and things to do across Scotland. This post includes a map of our Scotland itinerary with key locations and total miles and drive time. We have also included the must see places and things to do within each of these locations.
Itinerary Map of the Best Places to Visit in One Week (or two) in Scotland
Our trip followed this map counter clockwise originating and ending in Edinburgh. It's almost 21 hours of drive time (over 800 miles), and that doesn't include any side trips. Each of the stops along this drive are discussed in detail below. Bubbly Tourist took two weeks on this trip with an average of two days per stop. We have detailed why each location was truly amazing and will highlight which locations are an absolute must see if you need to keep your travel time to one week or less...
Best Scotland Itinerary Continued
Our First Location: Scotland's Oban ...
Bubbly Tourist's Best Scotland Itinerary details information on what to do and what places to see in Oban , Isle of Skye , the Northwest Highlands , Speyside Whisky Country and Edinburgh .
Other Scottish Itineraries
Hidden gems that are off the beaten path.
Along the way of our voyage across Scotland, we discovered some hidden gems that are worth seeing where we go into more detail than our itinerary.
Scottish Castles
This beautiful country is full of castles. What makes these 8 castles of Scotland a must see?
Scottish Distilleries
If scotch is your thing and/or you'd like to learn more, then you won't want to miss out on these distilleries .
Tips for your travel across Scotland
There are some quirks worth understanding to help you navigate across Scotland .
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Ultimate Map Of Things To See When Visiting Scotland
There’s a whole heap of amazing things to do in Scotland. Being able to dive right into the historic charm of Edinburgh , the beautiful natural landscapes that are perfect for hiking , and the gorgeous islands make Scotland one of my favourite places to explore.
Honestly, there’ll never be enough time to discover all of Scotland but there’s no harm in trying.
I spent a good six years, or so, in Scotland for university (in the Kingdom of Fife ) and it really was the best place to study.
As you can imagine, that notable saying, ‘all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy’ came to be my motto, providing me with ample excuses to hop in the car and criss-cross this beautiful country.
Take a look at my ultimate road trip map of things to see in Scotland, below.
Don’t feel obliged to solely follow the route, hop into the ones you like… oh and take note of Shetland (you’ll need a ferry to get across to here). See my full list on my map, below.
Swipe left or right over the map to reveal more
1.) Shetland Islands
The Shetland Isles are a beautiful place to visit whilst exploring Scotland.
Either take the boat from the mainland or leave the car and fly, whatever you choose, I guarantee you’ll fall in love with the charming Shetland Islands! Plan your visit alongside the historic Up Helly Aa Viking festival.
Imagine lots of flames, hoards of Vikings and lots of fun.
Read more: How to experience Up Helly Aa
2.) Oldshoremore
The sprawling hamlet of less the 40 houses is the perfect place for an idyllic Scottish getaway, not least because of its beautiful beach.
Its soft, white, sandy beach is most definitely a great reason to visit, rent a small stone cottage and spend a few days living in this peaceful region of Scotland.
Read more: Off the beaten track places in Scotland
3.) Loch Ness
Yup, that monster has still not been found! Head over to Loch Ness to see if you can spot the grizzly beast for yourself.
Make sure to also visit Urquhart Castle that’s around 20 miles away from Inverness and don’t forget to try some traditional Scottish foods whilst you’re in the area.
Read more: Best things to do in Inverness
4.) Balmoral
Near the village of Crathie, Balmoral is a Royal estate that the Queen regularly uses to this day.
Make sure to spend half a day discovering its beautiful history and sprawling estate. Balmoral Castle is open to us public between April and July every year, so plan your visit around this.
Plus, you should head across to Crathie Church, too. This is where the Royal Family go when in residence.
Read more: Best castles in Scotland
5.) Eilean Donan Castle
Arguably, one of the prettiest castles in Scotland the Eilean Donan Castle is well worth a visit.
Nowadays, the castle is open to the public to see inside and discover its history.
Just remember to visit between April and December (it closes to the public for the first 3 months of the year).
6.) The Isle of Skye
Known for its wild and rugged landscapes, the Isle of Skye is easily reached by the bridge that connects it to the mainland of Scotland.
Take the car, swim in the Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle and grab a bite to eat at the Three Chimneys restaurant to sample some top-notch Skye cuisine.
Read more: Best things to do on the Isle of Skye
7.) Cairngorms
The Cairngorms is a large mountain range and a national park that is situated in the eastern Highlands of Scotland.
Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Red Deer stags and the soaring ospreys that call this region home.
In the winter months, you can even ski if the conditions are right!
Read more: Exploring the Cairngorms
8.) Pitlochry
Pitlochry is a gem of a place, that is filled with gorgeous little villages and beautiful landscapes.
Make sure to drive to Queens View and grab a bite to eat in the Fern Cottage Restaurant which sits quaintly in a stone cottage on Ferry Road.
9.) Carnoustie
Carnoustie is a small town around 20 minutes drive from the city of Dundee and well worth a visit.
Pack your golf clubs and swing some shots at Carnoustie Golf Links, visit Barry Mill and enjoy the sandy beaches that line the town.
Afterwards, pop over to the V&A in Dundee , too.
Read more: Best things to do in Dundee
10.) St. Andrews
My favourite town in all of Scotland! St. Andrews is such a beautiful little place to visit.
Take a wander through some of the historic buildings that make up the town and the university and spot the famous hawthorn (inside the University’s ancient St Mary’s Quadrangle) that has stood for almost 500 years and was believed to have been planted by Mary Queen of Scots, herself.
Read more: Best things to do in St Andrews
11.) Anstruther
Apart from the fact that Anstruther has one of the best fish and chip shops in Scotland. Plus, it’s also a gorgeous little fishing village that’s perched on the seafront of the Kingdom of Fife .
Take a drive down the coast from St. Andrews (around 30 minutes) and spend a few hours enjoying its charming seafront (with a big bag of fish and chips, naturally).
Read more: Prettiest villages in the Highlands
12.) Stirling
Stirling is famed for having one of the country’s largest (and impressive) castles in all of Scotland.
Spend an afternoon discovering more about its history and make sure to spot the William Wallace Tower, too.
Oh, and be sure to see Blair Drummond House that’s not too far from Stirling, too.
13.) Falkirk
Falkirk is a relatively large town in Scotland that is around an hour or so from Edinburgh.
Take your car, visit the beautiful Kelpies sculpture and see the impressive Falkirk Wheel.
Make sure to grab a bite to eat at the Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar, it’s delicious.
Oh, and make sure to see the Dunmore Pineapple that’s near Falkirk, too.
Read more: Best towns and cities to explore in Scotland
14.) Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital has quite an incredible history and one that it’s eager to share with us, visitors.
Take some time to visit the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and discover some of the best places in the city itself.
There’s also a whole heap of free things to do in the city and a huge array of delicious restaurants and bars to visit, too.
Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh
15.) Glasgow
Glasgow is a bustling and vibrant city to visit in Scotland and not just because of its size.
The city has a huge arts scene where you can learn much more about Mackintosh.
Make sure to visit the Willow Tearooms, which he created and take a wander to the gothic east end, all before working up an appetite to visit The Honours for a bite to eat.
Read more: Best things to do in Glasgow
16.) Loch Lomond
Crossing the Highland Boundary Fault, Loch Lomond is a gorgeous place to soak up some gorgeous Scottish landscapes.
Take your hiking shoes and explore this beautiful region.
Oh, and don’t forget to visit the Bracklinn Falls Bridge and Lady Kentmores Antiques if you fancy a little shopping.
Read more: Best hikes in Scotland
17.) Ben Nevis
The highest mountain in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis is one place an amazing place to hike, especially on a summers day.
Make sure to plan your Scottish hike carefully, listen to local guidance and never venture up without informing others of your whereabouts. Even if this isn’t Mount Everest, it’s still better to be safe than sorry.
Read more: Itinerary to explore the Scottish Highlands
18.) Fort William
This west coast town is a great stop-off point before venturing to the top of Ben Nevis.
Take a day to enjoy some proper Scottish grub , canyoning, gorge walking or white water rafting that’s not too far from the town itself.
Make sure to visit the Crannog Seafood Restaurant for some fresh catches of the day.
Also, if you fancy a day trip, drive around 30 km to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, too.
19.) Glencoe
This tranquil place is the perfect place to experience a slice of Scotland’s unspoilt natural beauty.
Wander around Glencoe Lochan, visit Glen Coe Mountain and wander around the quaint, little cottage that is the Glencoe Folk Museum.
Oh, and be sure to visit Loch Leven, too.
20.) Tiree Island
Tiree is a small Scottish island that’s charm and natural beauty is well worth experiencing.
Ditch the car (or just ferry it along) and explore some of the gorgeous artist’s galleries of Blue Beyond, or the delicious Chocolates and Beyond that make some yummy treats.
If the sun is out, try your hand at paddleboarding or even kite surfing, too.
Your Essential Scottish Highlands Trip Itinerary
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From pristine beaches to magnificent castles, exciting cultural attractions and ancient heritage, Scotland has it all. Come pay us a visit. We promise you won't be disappointed.
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From fairy-tale castles to charming small towns, the Scottish countryside is every bit as spectacular as you've heard.
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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.
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27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Scotland
The beauty and history of Scotland are never hidden. It’s seen on the streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow, or along the shining coasts of its isles. But these things are so hauntingly captivating, it’s no wonder the past is infused in such mythology.
Exploring the magical landscapes and attractions in Scotland will only bring you closer to understanding these things. As you do so, you’ll grow ever fond of the culture and the tales that stem from each destination. Whether it be the Highlands and the Jacobite rebellion, the maritime history of Shetland, or the mystical cobbled streets of Edinburgh.
By the end, you’ll have discovered a country that has kept its past close by. Not out of necessity, but instead, adoration. And you’ll be all the more grateful for it.
Experience the place that inspired the epic movie “Braveheart”. Truly a place with something for everyone, Scotland is a small country that leaves a big impact on all who pass through. To help you organize your Scottish getaway, below is a list of the top things to do in Scotland that should not be missed.
27. Dunnottar Castle
A true Scottish treasure, the Dunnottar Castle, lies in a hauntingly beautiful ruin atop a cliff facing the North Sea. It’s a site rich in history and the victorious tales of underdogs, one that matches the marvelous scenery. It was here, that 70 castle defenders managed to sneak the Scottish crown jewels through enemy lines to safety against the onslaught of Oliver Cromwell’s forces.
Begin with a walk up a narrow path to the fortress walls, where you’ll be surprised to see just how big the castle is once you get close. The alleyway takes you beyond the walls into the castle grounds where you can explore ancient passageways and chambers with information showing what each section was for. Along the way, you’ll receive great views of the coast and Stonehaven.
26. Edradour Distillery
You may not have Scotland’s smallest distillery on your traveling bingo card. But that’s OK and you should go ahead and add it in. In a land of famous whiskeys, enjoy a different and more intimate experience here. The distillery continues to use old-school, traditional techniques to this very day.
Open to tours and tastings, you can discover the distillery’s humble beginnings in 1825. Trace the creation of handmade single-malt whisky from start to finish. All told, Edradour has mastered 25 unique expressions of the Highland region’s famous Scotch Whisky.
Finish the tour with a sample of many of these, before bringing a wee dram with you on your travels.
25. Calanais Stones
You’ll find yet another amazing example of Neolithic creations at the Calanais Stones. On the Isle of Lewis, these stones date back as far as 2900 BC. Incredibly, it’s estimated that rituals and celebrations took place here for 2,000 years.
The Calanais Stones are similar to Stonehenge, as they are arranged in a circle, presumably based on an astronomical calendar. However, in the center lies an even bigger monolith, which measures almost 5 meters tall!
Beyond the stone circle are almost a dozen similar examples within walking distance. See them all and learn more about their history in the visitor’s center “Story of the Stones” exhibit.
24. Glenfinnan Viaduct
Made internationally famous thanks to a little film called Harry Potter, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unmissable attraction. From wherever you choose to stand and point the camera, it’s bound to be one of your favorite photography memories.
There’s something for everyone here. There are the rolling hills that are quintessentially Scottish. Then there’s the historic viaduct and her sensuous archways that rise out of the deep valley. To top it off, there’s the Jacobite Express, a classic automotive that shoots plums of steam towards the heavens.
It’s a complete picture, and one you can immortalize four times daily. But for the best photos, capture the train running westbound.
23. Shetland Museum
Great for young and old, the Shetland Museum peels back the layers of the archipelago’s history and culture. Sitting on the beautiful waterfront in Lerwick, the museum has an array of insightful and interactive exhibits that will have you understand just why Shetland holds such a place in Scottish life.
Your time here begins with understanding how the archipelago came to be, from its geologic beginnings to the 21st century. Most fascinating is its maritime traditions and here at the Shetland Museum you can watch traditional vessels be created by hand in the Boat Shed. The neighboring hall features completed replicas. Complementing this is a collection of local art over the last 300 years.
22. Royal Mile, Edinburgh
Coursing through the heart of Edinburgh , the Royal Mile is alive with a colorful history. The pedestrianized street connects the imposing Edinburgh Castle with the head-turning Palace of Holyroodhouse. These two bookends may be splendid, but what lies in between is a historic and modern treasure trove.
Along the street runs marvelous townhouses and old apartments, many sitting atop boutique stores and restaurants. The crowd is busy and excited. The air is fixed with a sprightly atmosphere. Locals and travelers mix, creating a counterpoint between the “everyday” and the tourist trail.
Along the way, take time to see the St Giles Cathedral, King’s Close, and the Scottish Parliament.
21. Discovery Point, Dundee
Home to the USS Discovery, Discovery Point is the place to go to experience Dundee’s heritage and gain some great views of the town. The star of the show is no doubt the ship which was built in 1901.
Just one year later, the USS Discovery would find itself in the brutal winter waters of Antarctica. The ship would get stuck in the sheets of ice, only to be released in 1904. Science and research continued to be at the forefront of this ship’s endeavors and it returned to the scene of its first voyage in 1925.
And so on it goes. The timeline of the USS Discovery is packed with adventure. One you can get to know as you jump on the deck and explore.
20. Maeshowe
As one of the best examples of the Neolithic era in Europe, your visit to Maeshowe is 5,000 years in the making. The chambered tomb isn’t just a journey back to the dawn of civilization. It also showcases the impact of the Viking Crusaders. You’ll find Maeshowe on the main island of Orkney.
A masterpiece of Neolithic design, Maeshowe features epic stone construction using enormous pieces that simply defy our understanding of the time. You can venture into the stone passage, retracing the footsteps of those who first lived here.
Beyond the tombs are the remains of ancient villages, stone circles, and graveyards. You’ll also see the “graffiti” left by Vikings who conquered the region in the 12th century.
19. Rosslyn Chapel
Although not as big as some other chapels in Scotland, the Rosslyn Chapel leaves a mark thanks to its extraordinary interior. This features finely detailed stonework and craftsmanship that have simply been lost.
The chapel may appear familiar to some. Scenes from the Da Vinci Code were filmed here, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a place of great religious significance. The sculpted ceiling ablaze with stars, roses, doves, and olive branches is utterly spellbinding.
However, the real highlight is the Prentice Pillar. It was carved by an apprentice stonemason. Such was the magnificence of his work that the master mason felt threatened and killed him.
18. Luskentyre Beach, Outer Hebrides
One of the best beaches in the UK, Luskentyre Beach, is a miles-long stretch of white sand. In the beautiful Outer Hebrides, the beach is lapped by emerald-hued waters. It all combines to have you feeling a world away from Scotland.
But of course, that’s what the Scottish Isles do. They show you just how diverse the landscapes are here. There is so much “wow” factor. On a sunny day, the seas appear straight from the Caribbean and the ivory sands are like a Tempur-pedic. However, the presence of highland cows and the northern winds brings you right back to the moment.
Aside from sunbathing, there are several great hiking and biking trails to splendid views of the beach and coast.
17. Riverside Museum, Glasgow
Glasgow has a litany of beautiful old buildings. But what about striking modern architecture? Well, just wait until you see the eye-catching Riverside Museum. Of course, the captivating facade is just a small taste of what’s coming.
The Riverside Museum explores the history of transportation in and around Glasgow and Scotland as a whole. You’ll find amazing exhibits on the history of cars made in the country. This is complemented by a selection of historic trains, trams, and bikes. The latter even has the world’s first pedal-powered bicycle!
As you’ll notice on the way in, the museum also features the 19th-century Glenlee. This is a 3-masted Tall Ships with its own collection of exhibits and tales.
16. Culloden Battlefield
Scottish history is littered with as much tragedy as triumph. Arguably the most somber and tragic event of them all occurred on the Culloden Battlefield. The seismic events that ensued changed the future of clans in the Highlands and brought about the end of the Jacobite rebellion.
In a single hour, 1,600 men lost their lives. Over 90% of those were Jacobites who fell in a devastating defeat to the British Red Coats. A loss that would greatly alter the Highland way of life.
You can fully explore this battle, the lead-up, and the aftermath at the onsite museum before exploring the eerie battlegrounds of Culloden Moor.
15. Golf at St. Andrews
Set in the foreground of the imposing St. Andrews Cathedral, this beloved golf course of the same name has a remarkable history. It’s the oldest golf course on earth, with the first tee occurring in the 16th century.
As you can expect, getting a tee time here in the 21st century is incredibly coveted. The par 72 course does, however, remain public. So with some prior planning, you’ll be able to break out the clubs and make your way down the historic St. Andrews. The only sticking point is the requirement of a handicap of 36 or under.
Although golf carts are available, walking the gorgeous course is a big part of the experience.
14. Portree, Isle of Skye
The beautiful harbor town of Portree is much more than just the capital of the Isle of Skye. In fact, it encapsulates much of what is exciting about the island. Portree is a quintessential Scottish experience.
Arriving by boat is a great way to be introduced to the island town. As you slowly get closer, old whitewashed, and tan cottages become clearer. So too do the sharp cliffs upon which they sit.
Beyond your first introduction, you’ll find Portree offers a nice balance between modern luxuries and a rich heritage. Cute shops and great local cuisine can be found throughout. Plus, one of those adorable cottages could be your home for the night.
For those looking to capture the charming town, you’ll find some of the best views of town along Basville Terrace
13. Loch Lomond
In Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond is the largest loch in Scotland. It’s a veritable mirror at the base of a vast valley surrounded by rising hills coated in dense forest. Pristine and protected, the lake quickly wins you over and you’ll be itching to dive in for a swim.
Thankfully, there are several sandy eddies where you can put the towel down for a moment and take a dip in the refreshing mountain waters. But if you want to go a little further, stop by the lakeside towns of Balloch, Arrochar, and Drymen. These charming towns will be vying for your patronage in the evenings, but they’re also the spot to go to grab a kayak. Cruises are also available.
If the forest is what most interests you, embark on a short section of the West Highland Way which caresses the lake’s edge.
12. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
So much of Scotland is characterized by its history. You may not have the chance to visit all of these places, and even if you do, there’s always more to learn. To dive even deeper into a breadth of topics at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh .
It’s the best museum in the country, allowing you to jump into a portal and explore Scotland’s rich past in its History and Archaeology hall. Rich displays of artifacts like 12th-century chess pieces and even the crown jewels, quickly muster your attention.
But there’s much more to see. The World Cultures, Art and Design, and the Science and Technology sections help explore the present and future both here and abroad.
11. The Kelpies
Not far from Edinburgh, the Kelpies are a unique roadside attraction. Long before you reach your destination, you’ll see the giant sculptures of the heads of two horses. They are the centerpieces of The Helix, which is a fun park that’s perfect for a midday picnic.
Despite looking quite friendly, the Kelpies are seen as evil creatures or spirits in Scottish folklore. Many ancient stories feature them, including the one about the Loch Ness Monster!
Just behind the Kelpies, is a canal with a walking path on either side. Along with the open spaces, the wider park makes for a great spot to stretch your legs and have a bite to eat.
10. Ben Nevis
Scotland’s biggest mountain, Ben Nevis is a part of the country’s famed Three Peaks. These may not be the Himalayas, but they’re no less culturally and historically important. Over 100,000 hikers come to the region every year in the hopes of making it to the very top.
When the snow has gone and the conditions suit, Ben Nevis is a peak that hikers of decent fitness can “bag”. But come the winter, the brutal Scottish wind and snow combine to turn Ben Nevis into a climb for mountaineers.
If you aren’t up for the challenge, you can admire the beauty of the peak from the base. Or, instead, make your way down the rocky, winding path through the stunning Steall Gorge where the 120m Steal Ban waterfall lingers on the other side.
9. Melrose Abbey
In the 600s, Melrose was settled by monks creating the first monastic township in Scotland. For 400 years, the original abbey housed members of the Cistercian order until what we now know as Melrose Abbey was built in 1136.
Faithful restorations took place in the 14th and 15th centuries, ensuring much of the abbey would last to the modern day. The mix of present-day ruins, ancient archways, and columns makes for a hauntingly beautiful sight. While you’re here, head to Chapter House, rumored to be the resting place of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Afterward, check out the medieval artifacts in the Commendator’s House museum.
8. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye
In a land that personifies enchantment, there may be no greater symbol than the Old Man of Storr. On the Isle of Skye, this narrow tower of rock is the centerpiece of an unforgettable landscape.
After making your way to the car park, you’ll embark on a roughly 2km journey to up-close views of the pinnacle. But around 20 minutes in you’ll get your first glimpse, which will only cause you to walk faster.
As it gets closer, you’ll marvel at ancient volcanic plus even more. But slowly the surrounding landscapes, which are equally captivating, become ever clearer. With the Old Man of Storr in the middle, the expansive valley will have you believing in a higher power.
7. Skara Brae, Orkney
One of the best-preserved Neolithic communities in Europe, Skara Brae, is not to be missed. It takes you back 5,000 years, well beyond the pyramids and Stonehenge!
On Orkney Island, this incredible settlement was rediscovered after hundreds of years, thanks to a hefty rain storm. That was in 1850, and it still remains a vital look into what human life was like long before the Romans and Greeks.
A trail takes you through the 9-home settlement. Markers are placed along the path indicating a timeline of historic events, such as the moon landing, to show you just how much time has really passed.
You can explore some of the homes, with ancient cabinets and stone craftsmanship, showing just how sophisticated the community was.
6. Stirling Castle
There’s something about Scottish castles that refuses to get old. No matter how many you visit, the unique tales and distinct architectural beauty will keep your hair standing up. This is certainly the case at Stirling Castle.
Set atop a craggy outcrop, enveloped in old-growth pines, Stirling Castle is one of the most important in the country. Beyond the medieval walls that protected it, the castle played a significant role in battles between Scotland and England. So much so that Stirling Castle became a symbol of Scottish sovereignty.
As you explore the castle, you’ll discover more of its past, including how many kings and queens were anointed here. The most important of those being Mary, Queen of Scots.
5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow
In the early parts of the 1900s, the Glasgow-style art movement swept throughout the region. This was in connection to the burgeoning Art Nouveau style and ended with some of the most renowned Scottish works, including that of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. You can see the best of this at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
But like any good gallery, the curators didn’t put all their eggs in one basket. Beyond local art, you’ll find halls dedicated to famous works completed by Van Gogh and Salvador Dali. The latter is celebrated with an exhibit of the Christ of St. John of the Cross.
Beyond art, you’ll get up close to ancient artifacts from the Bronze Age. Plus free concerts take place daily.
4. Loch Ness
Scotland is the land of lochs and none are more famous than Loch Ness. Home to the legendary Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster, Loch Ness has been shrouded in fandom for decades. Of course, you’ll want to go and see what all the fuss is about. Once you’re there, you’ll not only be enchanted with the captivating scenery but also the chance to see the mysterious beast.
Although your chances are slim, they’re never zero. The good news is, there’s much to do around Loch Ness besides hunting for the elusive Nessie. It’s the second largest body of water in Scotland and in combination with the lush surrounding hills, the scenery is spectacular.
You can see all the best sites and views with a drive along the loch’s western shores. This will bring you face-to-face with Urquhart Castle. With the loch in the background, the 13th-century castle makes for memorable photos. But be sure to explore the rooms and towers before searching for a nearby beach to go for a swim.
3. Eilean Donan
There isn’t a shortage of ancient castles in Scotland. Which is why Eilean Donan is even more memorable. Among such tough competition, the 13th-century marvel (which has been dutifully reconstructed), Eilean Donan may just be the most spectacular in the country.
It sits on a small island in the western Highlands of Scotland where three large lochs meet. The tower stands above the shades of green and flowing trees with its reflection painted on the lake no matter where you stand.
After crossing an adorable stone bridge, you’ll be able to explore almost all the castles. Old halls and chambers are laden with history taking you on a journey to the very beginning, through clan warfare, the Jacobite rebellion, and modern-day renewal.
2. Edinburgh Castle
Since the 14th century, Edinburgh Castle has been the centerpiece of Edinburgh’s marvelous skyline. IIntimidating all who would challenge them, the Scottish utilized the castle for all of their major battles and military strategizing. A strong standing symbol of their perseverance and struggle for independence, Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Scotland.
Atop of hill of basalt rock, it’s an unforgettable site from the base. But believe us, the views of Edinburgh from the castle’s surrounds are just as incredible. It all begins by crossing the historic moat and wandering along the drawbridge. Where afterward you’ll be able to gaze down on the city like a king or queen.
The castle is open to explore further, and it paints a thorough picture of Scotland throughout time. Once you’re done, head back down and explore the Royal Mile.
Deep in the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is home to some of the region’s best scenery. Throughout the rugged, windswept hills are historic tales of victory and defeat. Beauty and tragedy walk arm in arm through the valley as such a marvelous sight is also the spot where thousands died in clan warfare.
In Glencoe, you can really sense the beauty and past. It’s easy to see why it was so beloved among the clans and why the Scottish hold the region so dear to their heart. One of the best ways to explore the surrounding Highlands is on the 4-hour Pap of Glencoe Trail.
As for the town itself, you can expect and sweet, charming place where old-time recipes are still found in cozy pubs and restaurants.
Map of Tourist Attractions in Scotland
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Reader interactions.
February 25, 2019 at 6:04 pm
These photos are such beautiful pictures! Glad Scotland is my culture!
August 31, 2016 at 1:39 pm
Absolutely gorgeous! Thanks for the amazing photos, just got back from 3 weeks in Scotland and these are perfect reminders of its’ beauty.
October 28, 2014 at 2:28 pm
We are looking into a driving tour of scotland and this is perfect. Thanks
October 16, 2012 at 1:06 am
Some new places to visit soon!! hehe!! Thanks for sharing them 🙂
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Tourist map of SCOTLAND
Interactive travel and tourist map of Scotland: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links.
The land of castles, nature and legendary heroes like sir William Wallace or the movie character “the Highlander” sir Duncan MacLeod, with breathtaking mountain views, stunning islands, white sandy beaches, top whisky and maybe a lake monster.
Scotland (UK)
Population: 5.405.000 Area: 77.935 sq.km Official Language: English Currency: Pound Sterling Drivers Lane: Left When to go: from April to September Book Now Climate Rent a Car Flights
FURTHER LINKS Scotland tourism official website Wildlife watching in Scotland Belmond Railway Map of Whisky Distilleries in Scotland
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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland
Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read
Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock
Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!
From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.
So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.
1. Edinburgh
Best place for year-round entertainment
Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.
Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.
2. West Highland Way
Best place for long-distance hiking
The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.
If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.
Detour: The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.
3. North Coast 500
Best place for a scenic road trip
Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.
The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.
4. Isle of Skye
Best place for photographers
In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.
Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.
Planning tip: Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.
5. Loch Lomond
Best place for a lakeside hike
Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.
At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.
Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).
Best place for live music and pub culture
Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .
Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.
Local tip: Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.
7. Stirling
Best place for castle fans
With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.
Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.
Planning tip: It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.
8. St Andrews
Best place for golfers
Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.
St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .
9. Skara Brae
Best place for lovers of ancient history
When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.
This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.
10. Glen Coe
Best place for clan history
Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.
Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.
Planning tip: Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.
11. Perthshire
Best place to enjoy nature's bounty
In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.
Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.
12. Shetland Islands
Best place for birdwatching
Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.
From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.
Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).
13. Speyside
Best place for whisky tasting
Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).
Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!
Planning tip: Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.
14. The Scotland Borders
Best place for a country ramble
Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.
There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.
This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023
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Upper Loch Torridon, Wester Ross
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VisitScotland
Scotland's road trips.
Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!
These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.
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VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland .
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Use our map to explore Scotland's cities, regions & counties. Discover famous Scottish destinations, plus travel times from London, Ireland, Europe & more.
Must-do's for anyone visiting Scotland include Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, the Isle of Skye (especially the Quiraing, the Fairy Pools, and the Storr), Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Loch Ness, and the Cairngorm National Park. Visitors on an extended tour of Scotland should try to include; Glasgow city centre, Stirling Castle, Ben Nevis ...
There are eight working distilleries currently on the 25-mile-long island, each with their own secret springs and peat supplies. The oldest, Bowmore, founded in 1779, is open to visitors. Others on the island that you can visit include Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Kilchoman, Bunnahabhain, and Lagavulin.
Scotland Hotels Search the best Scotland hotels in major cities, towns and regions. Get information on the surrounding area and attractions before your visit. Scottish Weather Yes, our weather is changeable and unpredictable, but usually quite moderate, which is a blessing considering where we are on the map.
Regions of Scotland. When you look at a map of Scotland, you may think we're small, but we pack an amazing variety of things into our borders. From our vibrant, bustling cities to the rolling hills and sparkling lochs of our jaw-dropping scenic landscapes, there's plenty treasures to discover. Each region also has its own unique and distinct ...
Scotland - places of Tourist Interest Map. Fife and Loch Maree are two of the most notable places of interest throughout Scotland. Follow us on Instagram. More on Scotland. Scotland Travel Guide. 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Scotland. BE INSPIRED. 24 Best Places to Visit in the United States. 28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World.
Or maybe you want to search for a particular type of tourist attraction. In that case you can choose from the following themes: Historical Sites (e.g. standing stones, battlefields etc). Castles & Palaces; Museums & Art Galleries; Food & Drink (e.g. Distilleries, Breweries, Smokehouses) Family Appeal Attractions; Gardens
Scotland. Europe. Scotland has many treasures crammed into its compact territory: big skies, ancient architecture, spectacular wildlife, superb seafood and hospitable, down-to-earth people. Best Time to Visit. Best Places to Visit.
Edinburgh Castle is a true icon of Scotland and has dominated the skyline of the capital for centuries. Unusually, it's set atop an extinct volcano. It takes the title of Scotland's most-visited paid-for attraction. Similar places to explore: Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Falkland Palace.
Itinerary Map of the Best Places to Visit in One Week (or two) in Scotland. Scotland itinerary of Edinburgh, Stirling, Oban, Isle of Skye, Highlands, Whisky country, Stonehaven, and St. Andrews. Our trip followed this map counter clockwise originating and ending in Edinburgh. It's almost 21 hours of drive time (over 800 miles), and that doesn't ...
There's a whole heap of amazing things to do in Scotland. Being able to dive right into the historic charm of Edinburgh, the beautiful natural landscapes - Ultimate Map Of Things To See When Visiting Scotland - Travel, Travel Advice - Europe, Scotland, United Kingdom - Travel, Food and Home Inspiration Blog with door-to-door Travel Planner! - Travel Advice, Travel Inspiration, Home Inspiration ...
Yeah, we have more than 460 museums and galleries. Of course, we have internationally-renowned, national performance companies. However, we're also an amazing hotbed of new and emerging music, home to one of the largest concert venues in the UK and have a well-earned reputation for putting on a party and having a great time. Learn more about ...
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 ...
Description: This map shows castles, points of interest, tourist attractions and sightseeings in Scotland.
Rugged, colorful, and feisty, Scotland stands apart. From its stony architecture to its striking landscape to its charming people — and their peculiar fondness for haggis — this little land packs a big punch. A proud identity unites the sparsely populated country, which boasts misty glens, brooding castles, windswept moors, peaty whisky, and Celtic ambience. Its leading cities, Edinburgh ...
To help you organize your Scottish getaway, below is a list of the top things to do in Scotland that should not be missed. On this Page. 27. Dunnottar Castle. 27. Dunnottar Castle. A true Scottish treasure, the Dunnottar Castle, lies in a hauntingly beautiful ruin atop a cliff facing the North Sea.
Interactive travel and tourist map of Scotland: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links. The land of castles, nature and legendary heroes like sir William Wallace or the movie character "the Highlander" sir Duncan MacLeod, with breathtaking mountain views, stunning islands, white sandy beaches, top whisky and maybe a lake monster.
Scotland's West Highland Way & Beyond - 14 Days. Browse our collection of Scotland travel maps to find tour & itinerary ideas for your Scotland trip. Itineraries include: 5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 2 Weeks in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique.
Outdoor Activities. From wildlife-spotting family-friendly walks to paddleboarding along lochs or white-knuckle mountain biking routes, our outdoor activities are guaranteed to thrill all ages and abilities. Scottish Munros - Hill & Munro Bagging. 6 Incredible Bike Parks and Trail Centres in Scotland.
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.
E-Brochures and Downloadable Guides. Discover all that Scotland has to offer with our online visitor brochures. You'll find maps, tips on Scotland's great outdoors, food and drink, events and festivals, as well as music and great images to transport your clients here!
Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip. Get started. Discover 13 of Scotland's most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. Interactive planner with routes, distances and must-see attractions on the way.