Scotland
A country located in Europe’s mid-west is part of the UK and occupies Great Britain’s northern third has to be Scotland. The southern part of England shares a border with the mainland of Scotland. This country is home to as many as 800 small islands that include Skye, Arran, Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland. Scotland has it all to woo globetrotters from all across the world; right from quaint villages to culturally rich cities, valleys, breathtaking mountains, and dramatic coastlines.
The beauty of Scotland lies in its dramatic sceneries and rugged landscapes. The jagged mountains, windswept moors, and wild cliffs of Scotland offer natural beauty and charm that beg to be explored. The most endearing features of the country are its great glens. Most of these glens carved out during the last Ice Age’s glaciers are staggeringly alluring valleys that have rivulets running through them and boast exuberant greenery. Besides beautiful beaches, the country has towering mountains and tranquil lochs that perfectly reflect the mountains.
History is dispersed all through the country as your sightseeing adventures take you to the fabled battlefields and castles where clans fought. For instance, there is the 13th-century Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile where you can revisit the tumultuous history of Scotland. Head to Loch Ness, the largest water body in Scotland’s Great Glen that connects the west and east coasts of Scotland. This scenic Loch Ness is surrounded by the Urquhart Castle above the water on the hillside. Just a short drive towards Glasgow’s northwest is the idyllic Loch Lomond that boasts fishes in abundance, boat trips, lakeside rambles, and treks up the majestic Ben Lomond.
If you are all set to explore the wonders within the country then you must know that Scotland has probably over a million ways to fill your holiday with incredible things to do. You can go island hopping to the Shetland, Orkney, outer and inner Hebrides; you can take day trips from Edinburgh to visit the Stirling Castle, Abbotsford in Melrose; set out on a bespoke whiskey tour, or simply board the Hogwarts Express to immerse yourself in the Harry Potter’s wizardry by booking a seat on a Jacobite Steam train to explore Fort William and Mallaig.
Scotland’s weather tends to be quite changeable and moderate but is seldom extreme. The climate is very wet and generally cool with the annual high temperature ranging between 15°C - 17°C during summer, and the colder temperatures hovering between 0-7°C. The oceanic climate of the country makes it windy, rainy, damp, and very cool most time of the year. In fact, you may even experience “four seasons” in a single day. But, come shine or rain, Scotland will never dampen your spirits.
Scotland Packages
Scotland FAQ's
Which are the best places to visit in Scotland?
1. Edinburgh: One of the most charming destinations of Scotland has to be the quaint medieval town of Edinburgh that will win you over with its centuries-old buildings, narrow winding alleys, Scottish bars, and pubs. This city is drenched in history and dates back to Roman times. You can head to some of the most prestigious museums here including the National Galleries, and a 700-million year extinct volcano named Castle Rock.
On a trip here you can wander through Edinburgh’s castle, discover the dark dungeons, and admire the architecture of St Giles Cathedral that dates back to 1124. Whilst being a medieval town, there’s a section of the city that comes alive at night. You can discover the secret bars like Hoot the Redeemer, and make the most of boozy slushies, quirky cocktails, and a fun vibe here.
Location: Scotland's Central Belt, on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth
Best Time: June through August
2. Glasgow: Glasgow is a city that is brimming with personality. It is the country’s largest city, is edgy, vibrant, and is a must-visit spot for cuisine, culture, and art. You can pay a visit to over 20 galleries and museums here. The St Mungo Museum of Art and Life is truly something for the tourists while the iconic red sandstone building of Kelvingrove Art Gallery is a flagship museum of the city that houses precious artworks by Dali, Van Gogh, and others.
This city is the best-kept Victorian city that impresses you with award-winning architecture and offers retail therapy in abundance. You can head to Buchanan or Sauchiehall Street for a bit of shopping heaven. The city of Glasgow has several gardens and parks and these sprawling green spaces present perfect chill-out places for socializing on evenings and sunny days.
Location: On the River Clyde in Scotland's western Lowlands
Best Time: Between March and August
3. Dundee: The least sunny, and hottest city of Dundee is a compact, dynamic and modern wonder. This city has been tagged as the UNESCO City of Design and is home to plenty of cool bars for grown-ups, art centers, and culture with theaters. You can come here to witness the spellbinding river crossings, one being the Tay Rail Bridge that stretches from the Firth of Tay to the Wormit village.
Some of the top attractions of Dundee include the Discovery Point that is a kid-friendly science maritime museum and houses a vast number of historic vessels. You can wander around the Old Town Center here before climbing the old volcano, Dundee Law to make the most of superb views here and view its renowned rail bridge.
Location: Firth of Tay estuary in eastern Scotland
Best Time: May through August
4. Cairngorms National Park: Established in 2003, this national park is the largest in the UK and offers masses of activities to do. The Park boasts wildlife hotspots, lochs, rivers, forest paths, distilleries, and friendly villages, and lets you bag a Munro. You can spot an impressive collection of wildlife and nature here just keep your eyes peeled for pine martens, red squirrels, herds of red deer, and capercaillie.
You can go on a highland safari trip with an experienced local guide accompanying you, or you can hike the Lairig Ghru and check out the Kingussie’s Highland Wildlife Park where you can spot the only polar bear cub in the UK.
Location: Northeast Scotland
Best Time: Mid-February till October
5. Perth: Located in central Scotland, a short distance from the city of Dundee, and accessible from Edinburgh by rail, the small city of Perth offers a pleasant taste of a relaxed Scotland. You can kick things off by visiting the River Tay. If you are visiting in spring, you can head to the popular Branklyn Garden replete with walking paths, and magnificent flowerbeds.
You can also visit Moncrieffe Island’s park-like setting and enjoy views of the Old Town. Speaking of this Town, you must visit the 14th century St. Johns Church, and the fascinating exhibits of Perth Art Gallery and Art Museum that display stupendous artworks of local history.
Location: Beside the River Tay in central Scotland
Best Time: September-November
6. Dumfries: A town overflowing with charm and quirk, Dumfries is this unsung Scottish coastal escape that is filled with glorious surprises. This friendly town has one of the most beautiful landscapes and must-visit attractions like the Dumfries Museum. In this museum you will find loads of information related to the world’s oldest camera obscura that is still operational and local history; you can head to the St. Michael’s Churchyard, the notable poet Robert Burns' burial place.
There are many Robbie-Burns-related attractions here as the poet spent the penultimate years of his life here. For instance, The Robert Burns Center is located within a 17th-century mill and features exhibits, artifacts, and original manuscripts.
Best Time: May-October
7. Loch Ness: Loch Ness is a part of the waterway Great Glen that connects the Scotlands’ east and west coasts. Named after the Ness River that flows from the north end this place is renowned for the cryptozoological Monster’s alleged sightings. It is one of the rarest destinations, that engages everyone from kids to adults, and especially those interested in hiking, photography, and more.
Loch Ness combines stunning scenery, Jacobite history, and the probability of a monster sighting thus ensuring that it remains to be the perfect destination for all ages, all through the year. You cannot swim here but can enjoy expansive views of Dores Beach, Urquhart Castle, and Inverness Castle.
Location: Scottish Highlands
Best Time: June through August
8. Luskentyre Beach: The Luskentyre sands boast miles of stunning azure water and white sand. It is one of the largest and most spectacular Harris beaches that truly feeds your soul. It has been rated as one of the world-best beaches that let you enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
This beach features grassy fertile plains and is dotted with wildflowers. Believe it or not but the beach looks nothing short of a heaven slice on Earth. Many eateries near the beach draw upon the finest local produce for creating flavorsome items that reflect the traditions of the island. Some of the activities you can enjoy here include hill walking, cycling, and swimming.
Location: Close to the A859 on South Harris, Scotland
Best Time: May until November
9. Fingal's Cave: Situated on Staffa’s uninhabited island, the Fingal’s Cave is a popular sea cave. The million years old stunning hexagonal basalt columns of the cave contribute to its astounding natural wonder. If you are ever traveling near Western Scotland this unbelievable site totally deserves a visit. The other-worldly wonder derives its name from a mythical Irish warrior, Fionn mac Cumhaill.
As per an Irish Legend, this cave is the Scottish entrance to an ancient road. It feels surreal when the lapping waves’ sound reverberates off the cave’s arched roof thus creating a soothing harmony. If you are paying a visit during summer, you can spot the colorful seabirds called puffins that stay close to the 600 confirmed burrows for breeding until August.
Location: Isle of Staffa, United Kingdom
Best Time: Spring from April until June; and again in September
10. Glencoe Valley: The road through and to Glencoe Valley is not less than a scenic feast. Located inside the awe-inspiring geopark of Lochaber, the towering mountains and deep valley of Glen Coe were carved out, hundreds of years ago by volcanic explosions and icy glaciers. You can come here to absorb the beauty of Scottish wildlife, the remarkable highland scenery; pop into the Visitor Center and grab a snack; bag a few Munros walking through the glen; mountain bike, snowboard, and ski at the Glencoe Mountain Resort, and indulge in sea kayaking on Loch Leven.
Location: Highland, Scotland
Best Time: Autumn (September – October)
What are the best things to do in Scotland?
1. Hike up to Dundee Law: One of the nicest ways to experience the beautiful area of Dundee and soak in its rich heritage is ascending the Dundee Law Hill. The 3.5 miles route to the hilltop takes over an hour if you start from Clepington Road’s Kings Cross Hospital. This hill located in Dundee’s center is the city’s highest point and is an outcome of a 400-million-year-old volcanic activity.
There is a large war memorial at the summit here that forms the local skyline’s prominent feature. This impressive monument celebrates and cherishes the sacrifices made by the soldiers who perished in the two world wars. The views from the hilltop are sensational, as you witness the entire Dundee city and the mighty Tay River.
Location: Dundee, Scotland
Best Time: June-August
2. Visit the National Museum of Scotland: Your Edinburgh trip is incomplete without a trip to Scotland’s National Museum. This museum is a storehouse of European artifacts and showcases exhibits from all over the world. From Egypt to East Asia, and from mammals to meteorites, this museum has more than 800 eye-catching arrays of exhibits. The windows of the exhibits tell tales about world history.
Located close to George Square, this 8-story museum lets you witness the ancient Newstead Helmet, dated 80-100 AD; the Lewis Chessmen which are a group of walrus-ivory chess pieces from the 12th century; the exceptionally magnetic 170 kilograms of Muonionalusta meteorite, and the Dolly the Sheep that highlights the significant breakthroughs in the world of cloning.
Location: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom
Best Time: Early in the morning or after 3 pm
3. Marvel at Edinburgh Castle: One of the top tourist attractions in Scotland, dominating Edinburgh’s skyline, has to be the Edinburgh Castle. This historic fortress built on Castle Rock, a 700 million-year-old volcano, lets you explore different rooms and learn about the golden history of Edinburgh.
This oldest fortified place has a long rich history as a prison, military garrison, and royal residence. You can gather information about the Scottish Independence War from the Castle, and climbing the castle makes you feel as if you are walking in the queens, kings, and soldiers’ footsteps.
Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom
Best Time: May through August
4. Highland Fling Bungee: To enjoy a free fall from the height of 132 feet, you have to come to Killiecrankie and try the Highland fling Bungee at up to 50 miles/hour. Those high on adrenaline will love jumping off the River Garry Bridge here and making the most of the stunning scenery.
The activity’s duration is one hour and you have to be at least 14 years of age to give in to this adventure. It happens all year round and the maximum weight permitted for the jump is 120 kilograms. From the bungee platform located beneath the bridge, you can enjoy spectacular views before you leap out inhaling the fresh air, falling right above the water.
Location: Killiecrankie, United Kingdom
Best Time: All year round (but winter is off-season and has restricted jump days)
5. Explore the Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews: The most enduring invention by the Scots has to be the golfing game. If you are a dedicated golfer who has dreamt of playing in the much revered Golf Club of St Andrews, you need to come to the Ancient Golf Course.
This internationally recognized ruling body of Golf was founded in the year 1750 and hosts the renowned British Open at one of the 18-hole courses. The most famous course of the Club is the par-72 Old Course running beside the rugged coast. If you are here, visit the majestic old British Golf Museum that documents the golf game’s history, and the Clubhouse.
Location: St Andrews KY16 9JD, United Kingdom
Best Time: May to September
6. Sea Kayaking around an Archipelago: Scotland offers sea kayaking like nowhere else in the United Kingdom. You do not need a license to kayak here and can paddle beneath colossal arches, into massive caves close to the playful seals, the beautiful puffins, and basking sharks.
You can sea kayak around an archipelago in the West Highlands at Arisaig's Sound, and from Vatersay to Mingulay in the Outer Hebrides. During a sea-kayaking sesh, you will be enamored by the extraordinary landscape, the turquoise waters, the sandy beaches, and the rocky scenery. You will easily spend hours paddling in ultimate peace and quiet.
Location: Outer Hebrides; west highlands; northwest highlands
Best Time: Late spring to early summer
7. Go to Loch Lomond: Loch Lomond is Scotland’s Trossachs and is a zone of heart-stopping beauty. Established as the very first National Park of Scotland in 2002, the Loch Lomond is a natural gateway dividing the Scottish Highlands’ rugged mountains from the lowlands. This must-visit destination is popular amongst tourists, adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and walkers.
You can follow the forestry trails here, through the oaks and pines on the lowland trails for a walk; visit the historical sites and unravel Rob Roy Cave’s secrets; explore the island of Yew trees; spot wallabies roaming freely on the Inchconnachan island; and the beavers, Ospreys, and red deer in their natural habitat here.
Best Time: Spring, summer, and early autumn
How is the nightlife in Scotland?
Holyrood 9a: One of the holiest places for beer lovers has to be Holyrood 9a. This typical bar of Edinburgh’s world-renowned Royal mile serves malt Scotch Whiskey and over 300 different whiskeys.
The Garage: The best nightlife place in Scotland has to be the energy-packed club of the Garage. You can dance the night away to the foot-tapping pop, jazz, hip-hop, and rock numbers played by the DJ here.
The Malt Room: If you are a liquor aficionado, the Malt Room is the perfect place that lets you try a wide range of world spirits, tequilas, rums, and unique gins here. This one is the first whiskey bar in Inverness that lets you try handicraft beers as well.
Fubar Nightclub: One of Scotland’s most renowned clubs, the Fubar nightclub lets you enjoy groovy music, shake a leg, try a unique assortment of drinks, and lose yourself to the madness beats.
The Dome: The best bar cum nightclub in the city has to be Done. You can enjoy the most delectable meal here whilst enjoying the panoramic views of Scotland’s bountiful rivers and plains.
The Last Drop: One of the trendiest and traditional pubs in the city has to be the Last Drop. You can make the most of an excellent ambiance here, savor delicious food like fajitas and wash them down with affordably priced drinks here.
What is the best time to visit Scotland?
How to reach Scotland?
By air: You can enter Scotland by air through Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, and London Airports. All you have to do is catch a flight from any of these airports and make it to any of the international airports here. The major airlines flying this route can drop you off at Dundee, Inverness, Glasgow, Aberdeen, or Edinburgh International Airports.
By Road: You can reach Scotland by road by flying into London and further renting a coach, bus or car.
By Rail: You can reach Scotland by rail by flying into London and boarding the ScotRail, Transpennine Express, Virgin Trains East Coast, or any other, to reach the country.
How many days are enough to explore Scotland?
Your Day 4 could be spent finishing up all the spots in Inverness and driving to the Isle of Skye. On the fifth and 6th days, you could explore every major sightseeing spot of the Isle of Skye and Glasgow. On the seventh day, you could visit Glasgow’s Stirling Castle and head back to Edinburgh for a return flight to your country.
What is Scotland famous for?
What food is Scotland famous for?
Which are the best cities to explore in Scotland?
1. Edinburgh: Whether you come to Edinburgh for a week or for a weekend, the old townhouses, the quaint cafes, and the long stretch of Royal Mile will transport you back to the incredible medieval times. You can have a gala time souvenir shopping here, and visit the numerous museums, churches, and old townhouses.
2. Aberdeen: Filled with gardens and parks and called the “Flower of Scotland”, Aberdeen houses one of the biggest indoor gardens of the UK, The Duthie Park. You can come here to enjoy the year-round displays of flowerbeds, ponds, exotic flowers, and tropical plants.
3. Glasgow: Glasgow has come a long way from being an industrial city to now being the country’s cultural center. You can visit the numerous exhibits of the Riverside Museum here, make the most of shopping opportunities at the Merchant Square, and revel in the magnificence of the titanium-clad Glasgow Science center that resembles a ship’s hull.
4. Dundee: Dundee is extremely popular for its breathtaking river crossings. You can visit the maritime museum of Discovery Point here, the much-photographed engineering feat of Tay Rail Bridge, before ascending the old volcano Dundee Law that boasts stunning panoramas over the town.
5. Perth: Accessible by train from Edinburgh, and a short hop from Dundee, Perth is a small city that offers you a taste of less-busy Scotland. You can kick things off here by visiting the River Tay, catching incredible views of the Old Town from the park-like Moncrieffe Island; and if you are paying a spring visit you cannot miss heading to Branklyn Garden that will stun you with magnificent walking paths and flowerbeds.
Inverness: Filled with stunning vistas, Inverness is Scotland’s largest city on its northern coast. When here, do not miss out on visiting the 19th-century Inverness Cathedral in Old Town, and the historic Victorian Market from the 1890s to shop for crafts, clothing, and food.
Which are the best historical sites in Scotland?
1. Calanais Standing stones: One of Lewis’s must-sees” has to be the Calanais Standing Stones that have an aesthetic value. The purpose of the stones is unclear but it is believed this Neolithic site has a timeless quality and the stones had ceremonial use for funerals.
2. Skara Brae: On the Bay of Skaill's southern shore, lies the Neolithic hamlet of Skara Brae that is one of the most visited ancient sites in Orkney besides being Europe’s remarkable prehistoric monument.
3. Kilmartin Glen: Surrounding the Kilmartin village, the Kilmartin Glen nestled between Lochgilphead and Oban houses some of Scotland’s most significant concentrations of Bronze and Neolithic Age remains. Within the six-mile radius of this village, you can explore as many as 350 monuments that range from standing stones to numerous cysts and henge monuments.
4. Clava Cairns: One of the most evocative and exceptional prehistoric remains of a timeworn cemetery set on River Nairn’s terrace has to be Clava Cairns. You can explore the burial monuments, standing stones, kerb cairns, ring cairns, and passage graves here.
5. Antonine Wall: The UNESCO site now, formerly built by the Romans to mark their empire’s northwest frontier, is a turf fortification on a foundation of stone. It Is 37 meters long and you can walk the Wall’s entire length in one day by taking a sedate pace.
Which are the best shopping places in Scotland?
1. Princes Square: For an entertaining, elegant, and fashionable experience, you must come to Princes Square in Glasgow. Here you can shop from the top brands of Kurt Geiger, Ted Baker, Sheila Fleet, and the various designer boutiques under the beautiful glass roof of the Square.
2. Argyll Arcade: Glasgow’s oldest shopping arcade has to be Argyll that lets you shop for jewelry from the antique jeweler’s shops
3. Princes Street: One of Scotland’s major thoroughfares has to be Princes Street in Edinburgh. This one lets you fashionistas indulge in luxury shopping. You can shop from the high-fashion brands here like H&M, Boots, and enjoy stunning views of the Old Town cityscape.
4. Stockbridge: Stockbridge in Edinburgh is a merger of restaurants, food shops, galleries, and jewelers. You can shop for elegant jewelry here, quality handmade bakery stuff, and quality cheese pops.
5. Ocean Terminal: Shop at over 50 stores at the Ocean Terminal in Edinburgh that lets you make the most sea views, shop from more than 70 shops, catch movies in a 12-screen cinema and dine at the riverside restaurants here.
Which are the best islands to explore in Scotland?
1. Orkney: Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands that are scattered all over the place. You must come here to view the scattered woodland of Hoy here that features high cliffs, steep valleys, and a withered sea stack made of red sandstone.
2. Mull: The rugged coastline of Mull boasts dramatic cliffs, sandy bays facing rocky outcrops, white beaches, and dramatic cliffs. You must head to Tobermory, the vibrant harbor village, and sample the freshest seafood here.
3. Shetland: The Shetland is a subarctic archipelago that features towering sea cliffs, snaking coastlines, unspoiled beaches, and an abundance of orcas, otters, and puffins.
4. Eigg: Small Isles’ second-largest island has to be Eigg which is this thriving green community that generates electricity from renewable sources. You must come here to explore the Massacre caves here, Grulin’s abandoned village, and An Sgurr’s volcanic plug.
5. Skye: The most recognizable island of Skye boasts the mist and cloud-shrouded mountains, the glittering “fairy pools”, lonely lighthouses, and pastel-colored houses.
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