nice places to visit in scotland

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

Explore related stories

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

Experience some of Europe's best wildlife, nature and landscapes this summer at these national parks.

Mar 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 30, 2024 • 19 min read

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 28, 2023 • 9 min read

Dec 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 22, 2023 • 7 min read

12 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

For those looking for a memorable vacation or weekend break full of historical attractions, countless great cultural experiences, and other fun things to do, Scotland should rank highly on your list of great places to visit in the UK . Part of the appeal is the fact that, as a relatively small country with a population of just 5.5 million, you're never too far away from fantastic sightseeing opportunities and interesting places to go whatever season you visit Scotland.

Those seeking world-class cultural events should head to Edinburgh , the country's capital. Here, you'll enjoy major festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe, one of the world's leading art festivals. Best of all, much of the fun takes place around the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. Visit Edinburgh in winter and it's a whole other world, with numerous festive light displays and events to keep you busy.

Glasgow , too, is a must-visit and offers some of the country's top museums and art galleries to explore. Smaller Scottish cities like Aberdeen and Inverness in the north are not without their charms and make great bases from which to explore the majestic Scottish Highlands and lovely natural attractions such as Loch Ness and Loch Lomond .

To help you decide where to go, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in Scotland.

1. Edinburgh

3. scottish highlands, 4. st. andrews, 5. loch ness, 6. inverness, 7. aberdeen, 8. loch lomond, 9. stirling, 10. isle of arran, 11. isle of skye, 12. fort william.

If you're only able to visit one city in Scotland, make it Edinburgh. The country's capital is home to well-preserved architecture from a number of different periods of history, including numerous examples from medieval times. Of these, the most famous is, of course, the spectacular Edinburgh Castle , a picturesque, must-visit landmark that dominates the city skyline.

From the castle, you should take a stroll down the incredible shop-lined Royal Mile. One of the top free things to do in Edinburgh , this famous cobbled street connects Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse and is home to numerous historic landmarks, many dating to medieval times.

Among the most interesting are the tall old townhomes known as "lands" that can be found as you explore the many narrow laneways known as "winds" that sprout off from the Royal Mile.

You'll also want to explore the more recent New Town area, much of which was built in the 18th century. A highlight of this newer part of the ancient city is simply wandering among the many elegant Georgian townhomes, taking in the Grassmarket . This attractive pedestrian-friendly public square is popular for its shops, galleries, and cafés. Some of Edinburgh's best parks are located here, too, including Inverleith Park.

Edinburgh is also an important cultural destination, hosting numerous popular events and festivals throughout the year. One of the largest arts festivals in the world, the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival draws huge crowds, as do the Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , the latter held on the grounds of the castle.

Other fun things to do include visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia . Once the Queen's personal yacht, it's now a fascinating museum that allows visitors to tour the State Apartments and Royal Bedrooms. For a true British treat, book a table in the Royal Deck Tea Room for a proper high tea experience.

Top it all off with an overnight stay on the Fingal , an opulent floating hotel berthed near the former Royal yacht, and you'll have plenty to brag about back home.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Edinburgh

Situated on the River Clyde on Scotland's west coast, the city of Glasgow has, in the last few decades, reimagined itself as a major European cultural center. These days, its many excellent museums, art galleries, and festivals attract tourists year-round. It's a great city to explore on foot thanks to its many lovely parks and pedestrian-friendly streets, especially if you also take in Glasgow cathedral and the famous Glasgow School of Art.

After exploring the city center, head down to the waterfront and the Riverside Museum . One of the top tourist attractions in Scotland , this superb modern facility focuses on the history of transportation in the city through its large collections of vintage steam engines, trams, buses, carriages, cars, and seafaring vessels. There's even an authentic reproduction of 1930s shops and homes.

Glasgow has also earned a reputation for other cultural activities, too. Highlights for theatergoers include a chance to take in a play at the King's Theatre, partake in a little opera at the home of the Scottish Opera in the Theatre Royal, or a classical concert at the Royal Scottish Orchestra at the Concert Hall.

Other must-see arts-related attractions include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , notable for its displays of local art; and the wonderful Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style Gallery with its diverse collection that includes works by Van Gogh and Salvador Dali.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Glasgow

Few travel destinations have captured the imagination to the extent of the magnificent Scottish Highlands. Stretching from the attractive garden city of Inverness on the country's rugged east coast all the way to John O'Groats in the north, this area of outstanding natural beauty is where you'll find some of the most romantic scenery anywhere.

It's so stunning, in fact, that it can frequently be spotted serving as the backdrop to hit movies and TV shows, including the hugely popular Outlander series.

Begin your exploration of the Scottish Highlands in Inverness, then head to nearby Loch Ness. Popular for its mythical monster and the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, Scotland's most famous lake is part of Glen More, a natural fault line that's marked by the Caledonian Canal . One of the country's most amazing feats of engineering, you can easily spend a few hours (or days) sightseeing by boat along the canal.

A few popular places to visit in Scotland as you tour the Highlands include the quaint coastal town of Dornoch. One of the prettiest small towns in Scotland , Dornoch is a great place to stop for its old castle ruins and cathedral, and Aviemore, popular as a ski destination in winter .

In warmer weather, the region is popular for the hiking and biking adventures available in the Cairngorms National Park . This sparsely populated area is also great for other outdoor experiences, including sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, and fishing.

While there are numerous tours available in the Highlands, a great option for those planning on driving is to travel along the North Coast 500 . This great tourist route takes in the best of the Highlands and other great places in Scotland.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Inverness and the Scottish Highlands

St. Andrews is well-known as one of the world's top golf destinations . Golfers from around the globe make the pilgrimage to St. Andrews' seven classic links courses, drawn by the prestige of playing the world's oldest golf course, the par-72 Old Course, and the chance to play where so many golf greats have teed off before them.

It's also one of the most dramatic courses, its spectacular scenery including a stretch of rugged coastline and the attractive old Clubhouse of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club. Founded in 1754, it's the world's oldest golf club, and its popularity as a golf mecca means you should try to reserve your tee time at least six months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Be sure to also visit the nearby R&A World Golf Museum . This modern facility is something of a shrine to the greats who've played the St. Andrews' courses, as well as detailing the history of the sport over the centuries.

Fortunately for the rest of us, there are plenty of other fun things to do in St. Andrews, too. St. Andrews is also famous as a university town, so be sure to spend time exploring the many fine old buildings associated with the University of St. Andrews.

One of the top free things to do in St. Andrews is to simply wander the university grounds, admiring the well-preserved medieval architecture. If time permits, be sure to check out on-site attractions such as its natural history museum and art galleries. The ruins of St. Andrews Castle and the town's old cathedral are also worth exploring.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Andrews

Shrouded in myth and legend, Scotland's beautiful Loch Ness remains one of the country's top places to visit. Despite there being no definitive evidence that Nessie, the world's most famous sea monster , actually exists, that first glimpse of the water doesn't stop excited tourists from scanning the horizon excitedly... just in case.

But even without a monster sighting, you won't be disappointed. Thanks to its starring role in movies and on TV, most recently in the hit series, Outlander , places like Urquhart Castle are enough to make the journey to this Highland attraction worthwhile. Built in the 1100s, the castle now lies in ruins after being devastated by fire some 500 years ago, but not before featuring in some of Scotland's most important historical events.

Expect to spend at least a day exploring the old castle and other Loch Ness attractions . Other fun things to do include a boat cruise along the loch and, if there's time, the Caledonian Canal, which connects Scotland's east and west coasts.

Other points of interest include the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition in the village of Drumnadrochit, with its displays relating to the loch's history and, of course, its monster. You'll also want to visit Fort Augustus with its old fortifications and Benedictine abbey and its viewing spots over the Caledonian Canal, where it joins the south end of the loch.

Read More: Best Castles in Scotland

It's actually difficult to visit Loch Ness without seeing at least a little of Inverness. Whether you're traveling from Glasgow to Loch Ness or from Edinburgh to Loch Ness , this stunningly attractive city in the Scottish Highlands is situated at the east end of the country's most famous lake and is a favorite jumping-off point for tours and independent travelers alike. It's also the perfect place from which to explore the magnificent Scottish Highlands.

Those "in the know" will definitely dedicate at least a little time to exploring the "Capital of the Highlands," whether for a few hours or a few days. If you do, you'll find no end of fun things to do in Inverness. This moderately sized city is first and foremost very walkable.

Start your exploration on the grounds of Inverness Castle , spending time admiring the views over the River Ness. You can then follow the river south to the picturesque Ness Islands. Connected to the shore by footbridges, this delightful park area is a perfect spot to kick back and relax.

There are plenty of great Inverness attractions to enjoy on both sides of the river. Must-sees on the west bank include the attractive St. Andrew's Cathedral , which you won't miss as it stands directly opposite the castle; and, nearer the old city center, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery . The museum is a must-visit for its displays relating not just to Inverness, but the whole Highlands region.

Other highlights include the historic 16th-century Abertarff House , and the Botanic Gardens, finishing up at Victorian Market for a spot of shopping.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Inverness, Scotland

Another of the best city destinations in Scotland , the attractive North Sea port city of Aberdeen is well worth including on your Scotland travel itinerary. Like so many of the country's top city destinations, Aberdeen is a delightful place to explore on foot. Lacing up the walking shoes will not only allow you to explore its many fine examples of old, well-preserved architecture, but also to spend time in its many pleasant parks and gardens.

A highlight of a self-guided walking tour is St. Machar's Cathedral. Built in the 1300s, it's one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture construction in Scotland. You'll also see many fine examples of old homes and merchant buildings made from the unique local granite that seems to sparkle in sunlight, giving the town its affectionate Silver City nickname.

Aberdeen has a second, equally complimentary nickname: "The Flower of Scotland." And it's certainly well-deserved thanks to the presence of the city's many lovely green spaces, most notably the David Welch Winter Gardens at Duthie Park.

Here, you can wander one of the biggest indoor gardens in all of Europe, home to numerous species of domestic and exotic plants. Set on some 44 acres, it's a wonderful place to explore, and in the warmer months makes a great picnic spot, especially during the park's concert season.

Other places for a good walk include Aberdeen's two miles of beaches, which are ranked some of the best beaches in Scotland; around one of the many nearby golf courses; or simply up and down the Old High Street. Dating from the late 1400s, it's popular for its shopping and dining experiences.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aberdeen

An easy day trip from Glasgow , and also pretty easy to get to from Edinburgh, Loch Lomond is a convenient place to visit in Scotland for those seeking a glimpse of some of the country's most iconic and romantic scenery. The largest body of fresh water in the UK, it's so picturesque that one of the country's leading writers, Walter Scott, famously labeled this magnificent stretch of water the "Queen of Scottish Lakes."

Gentle activities and pursuits include boat tours and cruises and visiting attractions such as the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre . You can even get in some shopping at the modern Loch Lomond Shores entertainment complex with its family-friendly SEA LIFE Aquarium .

As popular a spot as it is for sightseers, Loch Lomond also appeals to those seeking fun outdoor activities. For adventurous sorts, the big attraction is the spectacular Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park . This vast tract of unspoiled wilderness covers an area of 1,864 square kilometers with the loch and Ben Lomond at its center. The top things to do for adventurers include fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as hiking and biking along its extensive trail network.

The trail network includes part of the Western Highland Way , which goes all the way north to Fort William. A good place to start your hike is at the National Park Centre in Balmaha, where you can seek expert advice in the planning and execution of your particular choice of adventure.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions around Loch Lomond

The historic town of Stirling is one of the best places in Scotland to serve as a base from which to explore the country. Situated almost half-way between Glasgow and Edinburgh, it makes for a great day trip and boasts plenty of rewarding things to see and do.

Topping the list is stunning Stirling Castle . This finely preserved old fortress is famous for once having been a royal palace, as Mary Queen of Scots spent her childhood here. It's also famous for its role in the centuries-long struggle between Scotland and England. A visit to this mini-Edinburgh Castle includes a chance to explore the well-preserved medieval structure's grand halls and rooms, either on your own or as part of a guided tour.

On the outskirts of town is the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre , which offers a fascinating retelling of the famous battle that took place here. It was on this spot that Scottish king Robert the Bruce sent the English army packing, and the site commemorates this historic victory with excellent displays and interactive exhibits.

If you can squeeze a little more into your Stirling itinerary, include a visit to the neighboring village of Bridge of Allan, home to the Wallace Monument . This amazing tower dominates the skyline here, offering a little history about the legendary William Wallace, as well as amazing views over Stirling and the surrounding countryside.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Stirling

The attractive Isle of Arran has made a name for itself as one of the top places to visit in Scotland, as it's something of a microcosm of everything that's great about the country.

Located just off the mainland from Glasgow and reached via a scenic one-hour ferry ride, this 429-square-kilometer island is therefore perfect either for a day trip from Glasgow , a weekend break, or an extended vacation.

As you tour the island by bike, car, or the regular bus service that circles it, you'll find attractive areas that resemble some of the most beautiful aspects of Scotland. In fact, you'll see everything from moors to tall mountains just waiting to be hiked across, long stretches of sandy beach, quaint fishing villages, great little golf courses, and historic castles.

If you can spare a few hours and are fit enough, be sure to allot the time needed to tackle the 873-meter Goat Fell Mountain. You'll need to set aside a few hours to do so, but you'll be rewarded for your efforts with magnificent views over Arran and the Firth of Clyde toward Glasgow, as well as northward toward Mull of Kintyre.

Also, spend time exploring Brodick Castle. This popular tourist attraction includes displays of period furniture and artworks. You'll also want to explore the castle grounds, which house an authentic iron age dwelling.

There are also plenty of great restaurants on the island, as well as a number of good hotels and resorts. Our favorites include the 4-star Auchrannie Resort , with its excellent dining and spa services; and The Douglas Hotel , set in a historic manor house with stunning bay views.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on the Isle of Arran

Another Scottish island you'll want to explore is the lovely Isle of Skye. Like Arran, Skye boasts a little something of everything that is Scotland but with the advantage that it's connected to the mainland via a road bridge.

Part of the Hebrides in the northwest section of the Highlands, this large island is some 80 kilometers in length and is a nature-lover's paradise, home to colonies of seabirds, seals, and other native wildlife. It also boasts mile after mile of rugged coastline and spectacular hill views.

Hikers and hillwalkers in particular are well-catered-to here, thanks to the island's extensive trail networks. Many of these head across romantic moors and valleys and up mountains. These include the Cuillin Hills, which boast some of the best views in Scotland.

Man-made attractions include the attractive Armadale Castle . Located near the ferry port of Mallaig, this early 19th-century edifice is set in the heart of a huge country estate and features excellent displays and artifacts related to one of the most powerful of Scotland's historic clans, the Donalds. Expect to easily spend a few hours exploring the large grounds and gardens with their walking trails, as well as the Museum of the Isles.

Also worth a visit is Dunvegan Castle. Once the seat of the MacLeod clan, it's located in the village of the same name and is a great place to embark on a boat tour or fishing excursion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Hebrides and Isle of Skye

The attractive west coast resort town of Fort William makes an excellent starting point for excursions into the unspoiled Highlands, including Ben Nevis. Located at the south end of the Caledonian Canal, Fort William, named after fortifications built here in the 17th century, offers visitors plenty of points of interest to explore.

One of the best is the West Highland Museum in Cameron Square. Notable for its collections of furniture, paintings, weapons, and Highland costumes, it also houses an impressive collection of artifacts and documents relating to the opening of the West Highland Railway in 1894. Other highlights include exhibits relating to the celebrated conquests of Ben Nevis, notably that by Henry Alexander, who in 1911 drove a Ford Model T to the summit.

While in Fort William, why not book a stay in what's widely regarded as one of the best castle hotels in Scotland? Famously described by Queen Victoria as one of the most romantic castles she'd ever visited, Inverlochy Castle Hotel is just 10 minutes' drive from downtown Fort William and can now be enjoyed by the rest of us when the urge to splurge on a fine 5-star luxury getaway strikes.

A great excursion from Fort William is to Glenfinnan Viaduct . You'll recognize this amazing landmark from its appearances in numerous Harry Potter movies, among other films, where it served as the route the Hogwarts Express took when whisking young wizards to school.

Fun steam excursions can be enjoyed aboard the lovely Jacobite steam train along this stretch of the West Highland Line, taking in the viaduct and some of the most scenic vistas found anywhere in Scotland.

From Fort William, you can also easily get to other popular Scotland destinations. These include Glencoe, a spectacular valley famed for its breathtaking scenery, winter sports, hiking, and mountain climbing.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Fort William

More on Scotland

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland » 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

We’ve put together this guide of the best places to visit in Scotland so you can plan the perfect itinerary. From the medieval castles to cosmopolitan cities, this list covers all interests to make your Scottish holiday a trip to remember.

With rolling hills, quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and rugged coastline, there are so many incredible places to visit in Scotland that will make you fall in love. 

And the really wonderful thing about Scotland is that most places are very close together, meaning you can see a lot of the country in one visit and you won’t have to drive very far.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best places in Scotland to put on your itinerary and bring you one step closer to planning the perfect trip.

For each place, we’re going to share the best things to do and where to stay, so grab a mug of coffee (or a glass of Scotch) and get your pen and paper ready to create a plan!

Scotland Travel Guide

We’ve also included some helpful resources for planning your trip to Scotland…

Scotland itinerary

• What to pack for Scotland

Top places to visit in Scotland

If you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Scotland, here are our top recommendations. 

• Isle of Skye

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these cities and more ideas for cool places to visit in Scotland. 

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

1. Edinburgh

History, iconic sights and stunning architecture

Scotland’s capital city may be the second largest by population, but there’s no denying that the cultural experience in Edinburgh is second to none. Hundreds of thousands of people flock from all over the world to visit this city for plenty of reasons.

After all, this city inspired J.K. Rowling’s enchanting world in the Harry Potter books! Which isn’t at all surprising when you take in the cobblestone streets, charming small town feel and Gothic and Medieval architecture abound.

Head into the medieval old town to learn about the interesting history and see some of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. 

The new town is filled with more modern Georgian architecture, tons of restaurants and Princes Street, the main shopping street that is overlooked by the castle.

Fun fact: The city even boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in the UK! 

The best part about Edinburgh is that most of the historical tourist attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. You could spend days here and still not run out of things to do. It’s easy to see why Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in Scotland.

• Things to do in Edinburgh

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , but here are some highlights:

• You can’t visit Edinburgh and not take a wander around Edinburgh Castle.
• Wander up Calton Hill just at the top of Princes Street and take in beautiful views over the city and beyond.
• Visit Mary Kings Close, a hidden street underneath the city that allows you to experience what life was like back in the 16th and 17th century in Edinburgh.
• Hike to Arthur’s Seat atop an extinct volcano.
• Visit the Elephant House and see where J.K. Rowling penned the Harry Potter books. (Oh and visit the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard and see how many character names you can find amongst the headstones.)
• Pop around to local pubs and try some typical Scottish foods like haggis, black pudding, and sticky toffee pudding!
• Indulge in afternoon tea , a time honored tradition in the UK. 
• Explore Dean Village , Edinburgh’s cutest neighborhood.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Linton Collection – Blackfriars Lofts : Constructed in a former church dating back to 1871, this unique accommodation comes well-equipped with everything you need including a kitchenette, dining area and high speed wifi. 

This is where we stayed and we HIGHLY recommend it. Perfect location. Super cute and comfortable.

The Dunstane Houses : Nestled in the vibrant West End, this hotel is actually made up of two 1852 Victorian townhouses. It’s in a highly walkable area and offers upscale amenities, plus free parking (not common in the city!). The onsite bar has a fantastic selection of whiskey and gin, and offers tastings of both.

Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel : Situated in the heart of the old town on Cockburn Street, you couldn’t get any closer to the city center if you tried. With plenty of things to see, do and places to eat nearby it’s a great affordable option for exploring this magical city.

Psst! If hotel stays aren’t your thing, we have a curated list of the  best Edinburgh Airbnbs  for you to browse!

Music, culture, shopping and university vibes

Just 50 miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow feels a world different.

A little grittier than Edinburgh at first glance, Glasgow isn’t as storybook-pretty as its neighbor to the east; but it makes up for it in other ways. 

Glasgow has the largest population of any city in Scotland, and most Scottish people we’ve spoken to claim it’s their favorite.

Perhaps it’s the fact that it doesn’t feel as saturated with tourists as Edinburgh. Or maybe it’s the enchanting combination of art, music and food. Perhaps it’s the vibe of a cool university city that’s hard to put into words…

Whatever the allure for you, we think Glasgow is definitely worth a gander. For us, it took a bit longer to really get it (whereas with Edinburgh, we fell in love immediately). But now we’re already itching to get back and explore more.

• Things to do in Glasgow

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Glasgow , but here are some highlights:

• Take a Scottish food tour – we loved ours!
• Walk through the cloisters on the University of Glasgow campus.
• Indulge in a doughnut (or three!) at Tantrum Doughnuts .
• Walk through Kelvingrove Park.
• Bonus: it’s free to explore!
• Share several dishes in a family-style meal at Ubiquitous Chip , located on the charming Ashton Lane in the trendy West End neighborhood.
• If you’re visiting on a weekend, head to The Barras and browse the hundreds of stalls where merchants and artisans sell their wares.
• FYI: The trail is 96 miles and takes roughly 7 days, but if you don’t have the time (or stamina!), just hike as long as you’d like before turning around.
• Hike Finnich Glen to the Devil’s Pulpit rock , through a lush green gorge with otherworldly crimson red, swift-moving water, just north of Glasgow.

Where to stay in Glasgow

CitizenM : If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Glasgow that’s completely different to anywhere else in the city, then definitely check out this digitally advanced, space-saving hotel. (The beds literally go from wall to wall.) It’s located right in the city center and just minutes walk from the bus station and main shopping.

voco Grand Central : In the heart of the city’s shopping district at Glasgow Central Station, the main transportation hub, this grand hotel is a local icon. The historic 1880s building is a sight to behold in its own right, and the convenient location makes it an easy choice. 

Euro Hotel Glasgow : A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Glasgow, including surprising perks such as free wi-fi, a view overlooking the River Clyde, a game room with pool tables, and an onsite restaurant and bike rental shop. There’s a variety of room types to choose from, including private rooms and dormitories.

3. Isle of Skye

Rugged natural landscapes, picturesque hikes, and medieval castles

Renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic scenery, Isle of Skye is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

As the northernmost major island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, Skye embodies everything Scotland is so famous for. You’ll encounter rugged coastline dotted with quaint fishing villages, sprawling medieval castles, and lush green hills and cliffs in every direction. 

Needless to say, Isle of Skye is a bucket list-worthy destination, especially for nature lovers. The hiking here is straight out of a fairytale. You’ll find endless places to explore and there are also plenty of unique places to eat and stay.

We put together the ultimate guide to the Isle of Skye , which includes everything you need to know about planning your visit from essential tips to all the top attractions and fun things to do. Be sure to check out our guide and bookmark it to save for your travel planning!

To give you a little taste, here are some of the highlights…

Things to do in the Isle of Skye

• Start your day with a caffeine kick at Lean To Coffee .
• Hike the Old Man of Storr trail .
• Make the walk to the iconic Skye Fairy Pools .
• Wander Fairy Glen at sunset.
• See the Quiraing viewpoint and take the hike, if your heart desires.
• Peep Dunvegan Castle from afar, or take a tour inside.
• Walk up to the Duirinish Stone and pretend you’re in Outlander.
• See Scottish Highland cows at this viewpoint .

Where to stay in Isle of Skye

Viewfield House : Located in Portree, this lovely B&B makes a great homebase. In addition to a full Scottish breakfast, guests can enjoy the onsite bar, large fireplace in the common area, and fast wi-fi. The property sits on 20 acres, so it feels secluded, yet it’s within easy walking distance of Portree proper. 

Sligachan Hotel : Tucked into rural farmland on a scenic loch in Sconser, this hotel is in one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re hoping to spot Highland cows. The property is right next to the iconic Sligachan Old Bridge and less than 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools, plus it has its own micro-brewery and whiskey bar onsite. 

Kinloch Campsite : If you are planning to go camping in Scotland , it doesn’t get much better than this small campground overlooking Loch Dunvegan (yep — Dunvegan Castle is just minutes away!). Campsites can accommodate tents, campervans, or motorhomes, and they’re thoughtfully tiered so everyone has a great view. Amenities include free hot showers and free wi-fi.

Looking for a way to fit all of this in one trip?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

4. Inverness

Cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands

As the northernmost city in Scotland, Inverness offers a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of The Highlands with a modern city. In fact, more than one-third of The Highlands’ entire population lives in the Inverness metro area. The city is small, but rapidly changing as it’s one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. 

Inverness has all the modern amenities one could possibly need, while still providing easy access to Scotland’s beautiful mountains, lochs, and scenery of The Highlands. There is no shortage of castles, churches and cathedrals, distilleries, and historical sites to explore.

This beautiful city is also one of the best places to visit in Scotland because it’s the place where the North Coast 500 begins. (More on that in #12!)

Things to do in Inverness

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Inverness , but here are some highlights:

• Enjoy a 3-course lunch at The Mustard Seed .
• Get lost in Leakey’s Bookshop .
• Walk the path around Ness Islands.
• Grab a coffee and breakfast at Velocity Cafe & Bicycle Workshop .
• See live music at Hootenanny .
• Indulge in a doughnut and cappuccino by day or an espresso martini by night at Perk Cafe .
• Glimpse Inverness Castle from the outside (it’s currently undergoing renovations, and closed to the public).
• If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Culloden Battlefield will likely be something you won’t want to miss.
• Outlander fans will recognize the stones at Clara Cairns

Where to stay in Inverness

Inverness Student Hotel : Tucked into the city center, this riverside hostel is both cozy and affordable. Dormitory-style rooms have 5-10 beds and the common area features a huge fireplace, river views, a shared kitchen, and complimentary coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. 

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel : Sitting right on the banks of the River Ness and just steps from the heart of the city, this chic hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for several places to visit in Scotland. The fast wi-fi and free parking are nice, but the real attraction is the extensive whisky bar, with nearly 300 varieties.

Camping Pod Heaven : For truly unique accommodation in Inverness, Camping Pod Heaven combines all the best aspects of camping and more luxurious “glamping.” The pods each sleep four and include mattresses, heat, electrical sockets, and wi-fi. Just bring bedding and cooking supplies!

Psst! Read up on our guide to glamping in Scotland if you want more information on this unique style accommodation that’s become super popular.

5. Loch Ness

Home of the folklore, the Loch Ness Monster (or “Nessie” for short)

It’s impossible to list the best places to visit in Scotland without mentioning Loch Ness. The storied home of the Loch Ness Monster, the world’s most famous mythical creature, this gorgeous loch near Inverness is full of intrigue. 

Although local folklore about Nessie dates back to the year 565 AD, it’s so elusive that the first real sighting (and photograph) wasn’t until 1933. Since then, there have been countless reports of something lurking in the water, but only a handful accompanied by photo or video proof. 

Needless to say, the “monster” is a theme woven into many attractions and even aspects of day-to-day life in Loch Ness, but even if you’re not necessarily a believer, there are plenty of other reasons to visit. 

The town is home to spectacular Urquhart Castle and several other historical sites, Loch Ness itself is jaw-dropping (it’s enormous — the deepest in Scotland and larger than all the lakes in England and Wales combined!), and it’s an easy side trip if you’re visiting Inverness. 

Things to do at Loch Ness

• Enjoy the sunset on Dores Beach.
• Grab a pint and pub food at The Dores Inn .
• Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness and stop to explore Urquhart Castle.
• Rent a bicycle to explore the Loch Ness 360 bike path.
• The water averages just 41℉ year-round, but “wild swimming” is incredibly popular here!

Epic hiking and adventures

Nestled in Scotland’s Western Highlands, Glencoe sits in a valley formed by glaciers and volcanoes. Today, the dramatic, rugged landscape dotted with lochs and mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures, including some of the best hikes in Scotland. 

It’s no wonder that Glencoe has served as the filming location for several iconic movies, including Braveheart , James Bond , and Harry Potter .

Glencoe itself is actually an officially-designated National Nature Reserve, but it’s also a quaint historic village with quick access to scenic drives, epic hiking trails, and one of only five ski resorts in all of Scotland. It also plays host to some serious gems in the form of traditional Scottish pubs.

Things to do in Glencoe

• Grab a mushroom roll (trust us!) and some sweet treats at Stiff Peaks Patisserie .
• Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Laroch Restaurant & Bar .
• Indulge in the seafood platter at Lochleven Seafood Cafe .
• Take in the epic views at Three Sisters Car Park.
• Do the Hidden Valley hike! (Just do it!)
• Snap a shot on the road from James Bond’s Skyfall . 
• Head to these coordinates for an epic shot of a small waterfall and the peak of Buachaille Etive Mòr in the distance.
• Hike to Steall Waterfall.
• If you’re feeling very ambitious, summit Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Scotland.

Where to stay in Glencoe

Clachaig Inn : Nestled in the valley and ideally located for exploring Steall Waterfall or visiting the Ben Nevis distillery, this inn is a great option. Rooms are private, there’s an onsite pub and restaurant, and the inn even has a children’s playground. 

Kingshouse Hotel : Part hostel and part traditional hotel, the Kingshouse offers classic guest rooms as well as a hostel-style bunkhouse, geared toward hikers. Linens are provided, breakfast is offered at an affordable rate, and laundry and gear storage services are available.

Bridge of Orchy Hotel : Offering traditional rooms in the main building and suites in the annexes, Bridge of Orchy is situated right along the A82, the major thoroughfare into the Highlands. The train station is also within walking distance. Every room has spectacular views, and a full Scottish breakfast and parking are complimentary.

Wondering how to fit this all in one trip? Use our guide to planning the ultimate Scotland road trip , which covers everything from vehicle rentals to budget tips and itineraries. 

The bustling hub of the Isle of Skye

The colorful and lively hub of activity on Skye, Portee offers an abundance of services and amenities for travelers. It serves as an excellent homebase for exploring the Isle of Skye , with quick access to boat tours and countless day trips. With plenty of charm, it’s also well worth a visit in its own right. 

You could easily spend several days just strolling around Portree, chasing waterfalls and snapping photos from different viewpoints. The town has several world-class dining options as well. 

One thing to keep in mind is that because Portree is Skye’s main hub, everything books up well in advance for peak season (summer). You’ll want to book your accommodation, tours, and even restaurant reservations as far in advance as possible.  

Things to do in Portree

• Get a view above the colorful town at this viewpoint .
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at Sea Breezes . We recommend ordering the hand-dived scallops!
• Make a dinner reservation ( at least a week early!) at The View , in the Cuillin Hills Hotel.  
• Take a pony ride with Isle of Skye Trekking & Therapy Centre for some of the best views on the island. 
• Take a whale- or dolphin-watching boat tour (the best time is between May and October).

Where to stay in Portree

Marmalade Hotel : Housed in an early 1800s Georgian-style home, this beautiful hotel overlooks Portree Bay and well-manicured gardens. Dine in the onsite restaurant or garden, enjoy a cocktail in the heated courtyard, and take advantage of the boat and distillery tours that depart just minutes away.

Tianavaig View Apartments : If a vacation rental is more your style, these apartments offer a perfect middle-ground. The self-contained, modern apartments are centrally located and well-equipped, but come with hotel-like amenities and services such as housekeeping. 

Portree Independent Hostel : This hostel is ideally located right on Portree Bay. The shared kitchen, dining, and living rooms have fantastic views and great wi-fi connection, and dormitory-style rooms are spacious and comfy. 

8. Applecross

Remote peninsula in the Western Highlands known for its seafood and rugged scenery

Known by locals as “The Street,” tiny, remote Applecross is where you go to have an authentic Scottish experience. 

There’s little, if any, nightlife, and few restaurants and accommodations to choose from, but the outdoor adventure and scenery more than makes up for it. Plus, the village’s restaurants and pubs are shockingly good (like, Michelin-star good!).

The small fishing village overlooks the Sound of Raasay and offers views of several nearby islands. There are also small beaches and proper sand dunes in Applecross. It goes without saying that hiking, driving, and even just strolling through town are all accompanied by incredible views!

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for slowing down and truly taking in your surroundings. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Try local fish n’ chips and freshly-ground coffee from Applecross Inn-Side Out , a converted 1950s Airstream trailer. 
• Stroll from Sand Bay to Applecross Bay, taking in coastal views of the isles of Skye and Raasay.  
• Go sea kayaking with Mountain and Sea Guides .
• Drive the winding Bealach na Ba (the Pass of the Cattle), the highest road in all of Great Britain at 2,053 feet above sea level. 
• Treat yourself to dinner at Michelin-starred Applecross Inn . 

9. Cairngorms National Park

Largest national park in the UK, nestled in the Highlands

If you have limited time and have to decide on just one or two places to visit in Scotland, Cairngorms National Park should absolutely be one of them. National Geographic Traveller Magazine even named it one of the top 20 places to visit in the entire world!

Situated in the famed Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms has epic hiking and bicycling routes, castles, amazing wildlife, family-friendly attractions, museums, and even distilleries. 

The national park is also home to five of the six tallest mountains in the UK, plus a whopping 55 “Munros,” mountains taller than 3,000 feet (914.4m). And at 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles), it’s the largest national park in the UK.

You could easily spend your entire visit here and still have a great time! 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park

• Trek to a reindeer herd in the mountains.
• Do the epic Meall a’ Bhuachaille hike.
• Wander the small town of Aviemore.
• Catch live music at The Old Bridge Inn .
• Take a tour of Balmoral Castle , a summer residence of the Royal family.
• See the pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert , a strange sight to behold in the middle of a Scottish forest.

Where to stay in Cairngorms National Park

Blair Castle Caravan Park (glamping): Situated at the park entrance in Blair Atholl, this spectacular glamping site offers a range of accommodations. Stay in a unique riverside camping pod, self-catering tiny homes, or wood cabins, or pitch your own tent in the campsite.

Cairngorm Hotel : Ideally located on the main drag in Aviemore, the Cairngorm Hotel is the perfect basecamp for exploring the park and surrounding Highlands. Views, service, and dining options are all top-notch, and you’ll be within walking distance of shopping, hikes, and pubs. 

10. Outer Hebrides

Unique culture and remote, pristine beaches that rival those of the Caribbean 

Off Scotland’s rugged northwest coast, the Outer Hebrides is an archipelago comprised of 70 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited.

Each is a fascinating combination of quaint fishing villages, mountains, sand dunes, proper beaches, epic scenery, and diverse food scenes. 

There are many hidden gems in the Outer Hebrides , meaning you’ll get off the typical tourist path and have a very special experience.

Good to know: Scotland has both the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides archipelagos. The Inner Hebrides are located closer to mainland Scotland and are comprised of 79 islands, including the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Mull, Jura and Islay, to name just a few of the more well-known isles.

The Outer Hebrides have been consistently occupied by various cultures since the Mesolithic period, so it comes as no surprise that the islands have a distinct culture all their own. Thanks to the different influences, you’ll experience bits of Gaelic, Norse, and Celtic culture, as well as warm, welcoming hospitality. 

Getting to the Outer Hebrides

If you have a bit more time in Scotland (or this is not your first trip to the country), we’d recommend adding this unique region to your list of places to visit in Scotland.

The reason we don’t necessarily recommend the Outer Hebrides as part of a shorter Scotland trip is that getting there does require a bit of time, making it difficult to squeeze into a limited itinerary (especially when you want to see many other places).

That said, there are multiple flights and ferries to the Outer Hebrides every day from mainland Scotland. In most cases, you can be in the isles in under two hours. 

Things to do in the Outer Hebrides

• See the Black Houses in Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Visit the Standing Stones from 2,000 years ago
• Rent a bike and cycle from Lewis to Harris on the Hebridean Way
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the beaches
• Be sure to try the local delicacy: Charles MacLeod Black Pudding
• Book an overnight stay at Amhuinnsuidhe Castle (which includes meals)

Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides

Hotel Hebrides : Conveniently located in Tarbert near some of the best beaches in the Outer Hebrides, this boutique hotel is a great choice. The rooms are comfortable, the restaurant and bar are exceptional, and it’s right at the ferry port. 

Ravenspoint Hostel : In the Gaelic-speaking farming (“crofting” in Scotland) community of South Loch on the Isle of Lewis, this hostel offers ultra-affordable, comfy accommodation with a view. There are various room types, plus shared kitchen and laundry facilities.

11. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Scotland’s first national park and one of the country’s most popular destinations

Considered one of the most scenic parts of the country, The Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond are some of the most popular places to visit in Scotland. (Many Scots take “staycations” here, which is really saying something!)

Loch Lomond is the park’s crown jewel, sitting right on a fault line that serves as the natural boundary between the Highlands and the lowlands. Its geographical diversity is truly a sight to behold, with different formations and terrain even from one end to the other. 

Best of all, The Trossachs is just 30 miles from Glasgow, making it easily accessible even if you only have time for a quick day trip. 

Things to do near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• Hike to Conic Hill at sunset.
• Get a taste of Scottish folklore by exploring the mysteries of Rob Roy’s Cave. 
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the 22+ islands of Loch Lomond (look out for wild wallabies!)
• Tour the Glengoyne or Loch Lomond distilleries.
• Explore the cozy pubs and funky boutiques in the quaint village of Luss.  

12. North Coast 500 Highway

One of the most iconic and scenic driving routes in Europe

The North Coast 500 or NC500 as it’s often called, is Scotland’s version of the iconic American Route 66. Driving this road takes you through 516 miles of the most incredible Scottish landscapes with stops along the way in many little villages and sights with plenty of things to see and do.

The NC500 loop starts and ends at Inverness Castle, although many people choose to drive shorter sections of it, mostly for the sake of time. Whether you have a day or two weeks, you’ll be wowed by the scenery, impressive castles, hikes, Highland cow sightings, national parks, and random roadside pubs. 

No matter how much time you have and whether you’re driving the entire loop or just a section, here’s one important piece of advice: don’t over schedule yourself and build in (lots of!) time for detours. 

Things to do along the North Coast 500

This is by no means a complete list. We have an entire guide to driving the North Coast 500 with much more detailed information if you’re interested in planning a road trip.

• Stroll the beaches of Black Isle.
• Tour the Glenmorangie Distillery (feel free to request your “wee dram” tasting to go if you’re hopping right back in the car!). 
• Stop at Falls of Shin , where you can watch salmon leaping out of the water. Grab some locally-made souvenirs and a slice of cake from the cafe before leaving.
• Take a picture with the iconic sign in John O’Groats , considered the northernmost point on mainland Scotland. 
• Explore Ugly Hollow, an impressive box canyon, on a kayaking or canyoneering tour. 

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

Old Drynie House, Black Isle : A true B&B with stunning water views, spacious private rooms, and a traditional, formal Scottish breakfast served in a group setting. 

Natural Retreats, John O’Groats : Luxury, self-catering eco-cottages with spectacular views of the ocean and Orkney Islands. Locally-sourced, sustainable materials are used throughout each cottage, alongside modern amenities including large flat-screen TVs with PS3 video game consoles. Onsite bicycle rentals are available. 

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite : A former historic shooting lodge turned hostel, this is a fantastic affordable accommodation option with both private and shared rooms, plus a campsite. 

The “Gateway to the Isles” and the seafood capital of Scotland

A quaint seaside town on Scotland’s west coast, Oban is considered the “Gateway to the Isles” but well worth a visit in its own right. It’s a quick (and very scenic!) detour if you’re traveling from Glasgow to the central Highlands, and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for island-hopping.

Offering a little something for everyone, Oban is renowned for its fresh-from-the-source seafood, variety of outdoor adventures, and unique cultural attractions. The fishing community is also home to one of the country’s oldest (and smallest!) distilleries — that in itself makes Oban one of the best places to visit in Scotland!

Things to do in Oban

• Pick up fresh seafood from the famous Green Shack , aka the Oban Seafood Hut. Bring it back to your vacation rental or request the local fishermen prepare it fresh onsite.
• Climb up to McCaig’s Tower, also known as McCaig’s Folly, a huge unfinished replica of the Colosseum perched on a hill overlooking the town and Oban Bay. 
• Tour the Oban Distillery , where you’ll get two tastings. 
• Go island-hopping through the Inner Hebrides — the isles of Barra, Coll, Iona, Kerrera, Lismore, and Mull are all easily accessible with a short ferry ride from Oban’s ferry port (and you can visit multiple islands in one day!).
• Book a puffin or other wildlife-watching tour with Basking Shark Scotland . 

Where to stay in Oban

The Perle Oban : This stylish waterfront hotel adds a touch of luxury to your Oban visit, but at a very reasonable pricepoint. The 1800s building is a local icon and guests can indulge at the spa or onsite Michelin-starred restaurant. The Oban Distillery is right next door!

The Kilchrenan Inn : A cozy inn in a picturesque, somewhat secluded location with well-equipped rooms, strong wi-fi, free parking, and an elaborate daily Scottish breakfast. 

Oban Youth Hostel : For travelers on a budget, this hostel is fantastic. It’s waterfront along Oban’s popular esplanade and within easy walking distance of the town center, rail station, and ferry port. Private and shared rooms are available, and perks include free parking and bicycle storage. 

14. Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebrides’ second-largest island

Largely considered something of a hidden gem because of the wild popularity of the slightly larger Isle of Skye, Mull definitely deserves a spot on your Scotland itinerary. Skye is the only isle larger than Mull in the Inner Hebrides, and it’s the fourth-largest Scottish island overall. 

You’ll find a great variety of shops and services in Tobermory, the capital town, but people primarily visit the Isle of Mull to enjoy slow living and take in the unique scenery, culture, and wildlife of the Inner Hebrides. 

Best of all, visiting Mull is as easy as taking a ferry ride from the mainland. Multiple daily trips are offered from Oban, Kilchoan, and Lochaline, and all three trips are under one hour. 

Insider tip: You can bring a vehicle over to the island on the ferry, but if you’re driving a rental car , be sure to check company policy to ensure doing that is permitted. 

Things to do in Isle of Mull

• Rent an e-bike from one of the local shops to explore the island on two wheels. 
• Tour and enjoy samples of Scotch at Tobermory Distillery , the only one on the island. 
• Take the ferry to the nearby Isle of Lunga, where puffins reside from April through August.
• Visit the Duart Castle, which has been continuously occupied by the prominent Clan MacLean for over 700 years. 
• Make the short hike to Aros Waterfall, starting from Tobermory.

Where to stay in Isle of Mull

Glengorm Castle : If you’ve always wanted to stay in a real castle (who doesn’t?!), here’s your chance. Set up as individual self-catering apartments within the castle, there’s a variety of rooms available ranging from studios to family-style flats with kitchens. Best feature: the library always has complimentary whiskey available!

Western Isles Hotel : Overlooking Tobermory Bay, this is one of the best locations for exploring Mull. Views are fantastic and guests rave about the food — full Scottish breakfast is included!

Salen Bay Campsite : To truly immerse yourself in the Isle of Mull, consider camping for a night or two. This secluded campground feels as if it’s on an island of its own, but is just walking distance from the town center. Elevated sites have 360-degree views, and you can rent kayaks or SUPs onsite. 

15. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK

With a nickname like the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” it goes without saying that there’s no shortage of epic adventure in Fort William. The area’s abundance of rivers and lochs position the town as a fantastic spot for water sports, and the surrounding mountains lend themselves to plenty of other outdoor recreation. 

That’s only the tip of the iceberg, though. Fort William has all the quintessentially Scottish elements as well, including historic castles, distilleries, and dramatic scenery. In fact, many scenes from Braveheart were filmed here!

Fort William is right next to the smaller village of Glencoe and both towns are easily accessible via train or car from Glasgow — just one more thing making it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

Things to do in Fort William

• Climb Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK (pack layers — there’s typically snow at the summit all year!). 
• Visit the West Highland Museum, with elements of quintessential Highlands culture on display, including weapons and bagpipes. 
• Check out the impressive architecture of St. Andrews church
• Watch boats navigate Neptune’s Staircase, a series of unique staircase locks. 
• Order a pint and pizza at Black Isle Bar .
• See the statue that marks the official end to the West Highland Way .
• Take a day trip from Fort William to the near by Glenfinnan Viaduct (see #16 on this list for more info!).

Where to stay in Fort William

The Garrison : One of the most unique (and dog-friendly!) accommodations in Fort William, this stylish hotel is a former police station. There are traditional hotel rooms, but guests can also book compact rooms that are converted jail cells!

Myrtle Bank Guest House : This 1890s Victorian villa offers B&B-style guest rooms in a gorgeous waterfront setting on Loch Linnhe. Views are fantastic, it’s just a five-minute walk from the center of town, and parking and wi-fi are included. 

Ben Nevis Inn (bunkhouse) : Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this hostel caters primarily to hikers. Ultra-affordable accommodation includes dormitory-style shared rooms or private rooms, and there’s a lively pub and restaurant upstairs. 

16. Glenfinnan

A popular stop on the Road to the Isles and the home of the famous “Harry Potter bridge”

Glenfinnan is an easy stop along the picturesque Road to the Isles , A830, which connects Fort William to the port of Mallaig. The town itself is small but mighty, offering an impressive punch combining history and scenery, but the 43-mile scenic drive is worth the trip in itself. 

Of course, there’s another major reason people make the trip to Glenfinnan, Potterheads will recognize this one! The Glenfinnan Viaduct, a raised railway 100 feet off the ground, served as the Hogwarts Express train in the second and third movies. 

Unsurprisingly, today the viaduct is widely known as the “Harry Potter bridge.”

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Photograph the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct train bridge (aka the “Harry Potter bridge”).
• Grab a sandwich and soup inside an old railroad car . 
• Visit the 60-foot Glenfinnan Monument, or the “Leaning Tower of Glenfinnan,” as the locals know it.
• Take a day trip to Old Forge Pub , named the world’s most remote bar by the Guinness Book of World Records (fair warning: there’s literally no actual road to the pub, so this is more of an adventure than it initially seems!). 

17. Stirling

Gateway to the Highlands

It may be a rather small city, but Stirling packs a serious punch. The city is located about one hour from Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Glasgow, situated right where the Scottish Lowlands meet the Highlands. 

Without a doubt, the main reason to visit Stirling is that it’s a passage on the journey to The Highlands. 

Outside of being a major thoroughfare for the Highlands, Stirling itself is actually a college town—and the entertainment and restaurant scenes reflect that. The younger, livelier population lends itself to buzzy bars and great nightlife, lots of great shopping, and events happening seemingly non-stop, year-round. 

Of course, if you’re looking for a quieter respite away from the rowdy party scene, there are also plenty of traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants. 

Things to do in Stirling

• Explore the cobblestone streets of Stirling’s Old Town 
• Head up to Stirling Castle for some panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands
• Visit the National Wallace Monument in honor of Scottish warrior William Wallace, i.e.; Braveheart.
• Briarlands Farm is especially family-friendly, offering a petting zoo, seasonal berry picking, go-karting and other activities.

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling Highland Hotel : Occupying a historic 1854 building, this former high school turned hotel is in one of the best parts of the city. The rail station and famed Stirling Castle are both within walking distance, and there’s a cheekily-named, school-themed restaurant and pub onsite (Scholars Restaurant and Headmaster’s Study Bar, respectively).

Friars Wynd Hotel : In the city center, this boutique hotel is well-equipped and extremely affordable. There’s a bar and lovely garden onsite, and guests rave about the hotel breakfast. 

Stirling Youth Hostel : Set on the grounds of a beautiful church perched above town and within walking distance of the Castle, this is an excellent affordable option for exploring Stirling. Choose from private en suite or shared rooms, and use the self-catering kitchen or order an inexpensive continental breakfast. 

18. Ullapool

Gateway to the Northern Highlands and a popular stop on the North Coast 500

A sleepy fishing village in far northern Scotland on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool is widely considered one of the most unspoiled places in the UK. If you’re looking to enjoy the country’s iconic rolling green landscape dotted with bodies of water at a slow pace, Ullapool belongs near the top of your list of places to visit in Scotland. 

Don’t let the quiet pace fool you, though — Ullapool is frequently named to lists of the best outdoor destinations in the UK and has a strong sense of adventure. The small town boasts a combination of rocky coastline, mountains, excellent hiking, and unique wildlife and photography opportunities. 

Inverness is just an hour away by car and there are ferries to the Outer Hebrides close by, plus, of course, it’s right along the North Coast 500, making Ullapool the perfect basecamp for exploring northern Scotland.

Things to do in Ullapool

• Rent a kayak or canoe from the Ullapool Pier and paddle Loch Broom. 
• Catch sunset over the loch from Rhue Lighthouse.
• Go tidepooling, crabbing, or skip rocks at Ardmair Beach. 
• Enjoy langoustines and other seafood fare at the iconic Seafood Shack .
• Grab a strong coffee and pastry at Cult Cafe .

Where to stay in Ullapool

The Arch Inn : Family-friendly beachfront accommodation with an onsite bar, restaurant, and open-air terrace offering stunning views. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the inn has direct access to popular hiking and cycling trails. 

Riverside Guest House : Laid-back, inn-style accommodations within walking distance of the ferry port and harbor. Guests receive complimentary access to the Lochbroom Leisure Centre, with a swimming pool and gym facilities. 

Ullapool Youth Hostel : A lovely waterfront option providing a fantastic value in the heart of Ullapool overlooking the harbor. Choose from private or shared rooms and enjoy communal kitchen and lounge facilities, plus wi-fi and bike storage. 

19. St. Andrews

An ancient seaside community known as the birthplace of golf

History buffs, architecture lovers, and fans of golf will all eagerly shout from the rooftops that St. Andrews is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. It was here that the game of golf was invented, way back in the 15th century. 

St. Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest and most prominent university — and the third-oldest in the modern world! The University of St. Andrews was established in the early 1400s, and many visitors call it a real-life Hogwarts. 

It should come as no surprise that there are a number of well-preserved medieval ruins in St. Andrews. What is a bit surprising, however, are the buzzy restaurants, pubs, and independent shopping boutiques in a town this tiny.

Things to do in St. Andrews

• Play a round of golf at the Old Course , the oldest golf course in the entire world (you must enter a ballot-style lottery to try and get a tee time). Guided walks are also available April through October. 
• If you can’t get a tee time at the Old Course, play at one of the city’s 10 other courses.
• Visit the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158 and at one time the country’s largest cathedral. 
• Indulge in a scoop at Jannetta’s Gelateria , a fourth-generation shop dishing out over 100 flavors. 
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the University of St. Andrews. 
• Tip a few back at Eden Mill , part gin distillery, part brewery, entirely unique.  

Where to stay in St. Andrews

Drumoig Golf Hotel : If golf is on your St. Andrews agenda, book a stay at the Drumoig, home to its very own 18-hole golf course. The onsite restaurant overlooks the 18th green, so you can get your golf fix even when you aren’t playing. 

The Spindle Guest Rooms : Best described as an upscale, adults-only hostel, The Spindle offers private rooms with shared common areas, like the lounge and terrace. The university is literally feet away and the entire area is very walkable. 

Rufflets : If you have a bit of wiggle room in your budget, Rufflets is a bit pricier than the other options but well worth the splurge. Set on a private 10 acres in a 1924 turreted mansion, everything about Rufflets is plush. If the weather is favorable, don’t miss an opportunity to dine in the award-winning gardens. 

A major hub of architecture and visual arts

Dundee is a perfect example of history seamlessly combined with contemporary living. Situated on Scotland’s east coast, the city itself is pretty compact and very walkable. Plus, it’s an absolute dream for lovers of architecture. 

The city boasts tons of architectural landmarks, museums, and galleries. And in 2015, Dundee was named a UNESCO City of Design, the very first in the UK. Another fun tidbit: Grand Theft Auto, the video game with a longtime, cult-like following, was created here in Dundee.

Like Edinburgh, Dundee also hosts numerous festivals every year. They play host to a fantastic Jazz festival each November, as well as one of the biggest food festivals in Scotland. Speaking of which—Dundee’s food and bar scenes are also quite trendy with plenty of options to keep you satisfied. 

Things to do in Dundee

• Visit the Dundee V&A Museum, dedicated entirely to design, also the first of its kind in Scotland. 
• Peruse the McManus Galleries.
• Check out the architecture at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Hike or drive to the top of Dundee Law, a long-dormant volcano, for an elevated 360-degree view of the city and river.
• Go whitewater rafting in nearby Angus

Where to stay in Dundee

Hotel Indigo : Overlooking the River Tay and close to the center of town, this chic hotel is in a building that was once a textile mill. It’s in a very walkable location and every room has a dedicated workstation. 

The Shaftesbury Hotel : To really immerse yourself in the architecture Dundee is so famous for, choose this hotel. In the vibrant West End, the 19th century hotel has several original features including arched windows, stone fireplaces, and high ceilings. 

Dundee Backpackers Hostel : Housed in a group of five well-preserved 16th century buildings with many period furnishings intact, this hostel has an elevated feel and is situated on bustling High Street. There are both private and shared rooms, plus communal dining room, kitchen, lounge, and game room. 

21. Aberdeen

One of the sunniest places in the UK and considered Scotland’s “castle capital”

Located near the coast in the northeastern part of the country, Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. Fun fact: It’s considered the sunniest city in all of the UK, getting up to 195 hours of sunshine in May alone! 

The city’s favorable weather is the cherry on top as Aberdeen is one of the only places in the UK that has a proper sandy beach. Steady winds make Aberdeen a great spot for surfing, kitesurfing, or sailing. 

There’s also an amusement park at the beach and, in true Scottish fashion, an ice skating rink. 

Nightlife is surprisingly lively for a laid-back beach town, and the restaurant scene is robust as well. There are golf courses everywhere you look (did you know golf was invented in Scotland?!), cool museums (many of which are totally free!), nice public parks, and lots of history to enjoy in Aberdeen. 

Things to do in Aberdeen

• Visit at least a couple of Scotland’s castles ! Start with Dunnottar Castle, one of the oldest and most formidable in the country, and the distinct pink Craigievar Castle.  
• Grab a beer from the wildly popular BrewDog’s main brewery DogTap in Ellon. 
• Visit Newburgh Beach to run up and down the sand dunes and check out the colony of hundreds of seals. 
• Stroll through Old Aberdeen for eye-popping old architecture (it was founded in the 1400s!).  
• Make a day trip to Cairngorms National Park (#9 on this list!). 

Where to stay in Aberdeen

Jurys Inn Aberdeen (Union Square) : In a fantastic, highly walkable location adjacent to the train station, tons of shopping, and a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes. The hotel also has signature Jurys Inn DREAM beds and deep soaking tubs. 

Malmaison Aberdeen : Set in a stately granite building that looks like a Victorian mansion, this posh hotel feels like an absolute steal. The rooms are plush and well-outfitted, and recent upgrades include a gym, wine tasting cellar, and Whiskey Snug bar. 

Deeside Holiday Park : If camping or glamping is more your style as you tour the Castle Capital or visit Cairngorms National Park, Deeside is perfect. Choose from tent or campervan sites, or book a glamping pod or traditional cabin-style holiday home. 

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you  like  the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our city guides for ideas of things to do (we’ve got a bunch of them!):

• Things to Do in Isle of Skye
• Things to Do in Inverness

But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually being  in  Scotland and taking our very own dream road trip!

We’ve curated what we think is the  perfect Scotland road trip , and we want you to be able to copy our route! 

In this 2-week itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique guesthouses along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $17 for an entire 2-week itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

With variable weather conditions, excellent hiking opportunities, and plenty of city life, there are a few things you definitely don’t want to forget when you’re packing for a trip to Scotland.

Check out the  exact items we recommend  for traveling in Scotland. 

• rain jacket (make sure it’s waterproof, not just water resistant)
• travel umbrella
• dry bag : to keep your valuables from getting wet on a hike
• Hiking backpack
• Hiking boots
• Lots of layers
• A couple nicer outfits for eating out
• Bug repellent: midges are common in Scotland, especially during the summer months
• Camera and  lightweight tripod  (optional)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the top places to visit in Scotland

Here’s a roundup of all the best places to visit in Scotland so you can see everything in one place.

• Cairngorms National Park
• Outer Hebrides
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
• North Coast 500
• Isle of Mull
• Fort William
• St. Andrews

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Dreamy Scotland Glamping Stays
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• How to Get from London to Edinburgh
• How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Which of these places to visit in Scotland are going straight to the top of your list? Are you planning a trip to Scotland and have more questions? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (10) on “ 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland ”

Thank you. Very helpful

You are very welcome!

Hmm, finally something worth reading about Scotland ! Thanks for all the tips. I really should visit Scotland more-it looks just beautiful.

It’s so magical! Let us know if you are planning a trip!

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

We’re so happy to hear we inspired you to visit!

Pics are beautiful! Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

Thank you so much!

Where is the best place to go for food?

Oh, wow! There are so many good places. We are actually creating an article about Scottish foods and where to get order them. Check back soon!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best places to visit in Scotland

By Mike MacEacheran

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

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

When is the best month to visit Scotland?

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

These are the best places to visit in Scotland

1. edinburgh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Borders Abbey Towns

Monica Mendal

Olivia Morelli

Gary Shteyngart

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

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

5. Glen Coe

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

6. Braemar & the Cairngorms

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

7. Loch Ness

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

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

8. Northwest Highlands

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

9. Isle of Skye

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

10. South Harris

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

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

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

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

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

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 10 most beautiful places in Scotland

From dolphin sightings off rugged coasts to glimpses of medieval and modern cities, these are the most dazzling destinations in Scotland

Growing up in Scotland , incredible beauty was so close at hand that I almost took it for granted. It was only when I hit my teens and twenties and started travelling that I began to truly understand why so many tourists – around three million a year – flock to my homeland from all over the world and are endlessly enraptured. It’s pretty uncommon, it turns out, to find a country where you can wake up in an ancient capital city, walk rugged coastline and admire historic engineering wonders, plunge into a misty Highland glen or climb a snow-flecked mountain all in the space of about 24 hours. Capped with a whisky, of course.

Scotland’s finest attractions both natural and manmade are not only abundant and extraordinary but amazingly accessible. At less than 31,000 square miles, Scotland is smaller than most American states and you can drive coast to coast in less than a day. And yet it packs in so much, from sweeping lochs and peatlands to sleepy fishing villages, cities steeped in culture, mountains stacked on mountains and castles enough to give you castle fatigue. Finding beauty in Scotland isn’t a case of where to look, so much as where to start. Here’s my pick of the most beautiful places in Scotland. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏩The best Airbnbs in the Scottish Highlands 🎭The best things to do in Glasgow 🌲The best road trips in the UK 🏞️The most breathtaking hikes in the UK 🌤️The best places to visit in the UK

Malcolm Jack is a writer from Scotland. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

The most beautiful places in Scotland

1.  Edinburgh Old Town

Best for: Getting to the heart of Scottish urban history

Scotland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe , but for centuries people have clustered themselves so tightly into the medieval heart of Edinburgh that they literally built things on top of one another. Hugging a sloping slab of craggy volcanic rock, Edinburgh’s Old Town is a magical mystery tour through Scottish urban history, stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile down to Holyrood Palace at its foot. Among its warren of cobbled streets and narrow closes, wynds and terraces, you’ll discover traces of a subterranean city beneath a city, sudden sweeping views of the Auld Reekie skyline, and some classic hidden pubs . 

📍 Need more reasons to go to Edinburgh? Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Edinburgh Fringe . 

2.  Fingal’s Cave

Best for: Marvelling at the raw power of nature

‘The mighty surge that ebbs and swells,’ runs a line of a poem by Sir Walter Scott inspired by an 1810 visit to Fingal’s Cave on the Inner Hebridean island of Staffa, and the roar of the sea amplified by the cathedral-like enclosure. The 60-million-year-old geological wonder has inspired centuries of poetry, music, writing, painting and filmmaking. Accessible on foot over broken pillars of rock, or by boat when conditions are a bit fairer, Fingal’s Cave is an assault on the senses. Deep darkness is hit by shards of light from the sea,  kaleidoscopic colours surround you and  sound reverberates around the walls and ceiling. Nature’s symphony, you could say, happens here, when air is sucked in and blasted out of the cave by the wind and the waves, creating rumbles and booms. Yes, it’s as poetic as it sounds. 

3.  Crail Harbour

Best for: Grabbing some fresh crab

Among a string of sleepy old fishing villages and towns along the coast of Fife’s East Neuk, Crail has to be the prettiest. Thanks not least to its picture-postcard perfect harbour – a crescent of time-and-tide washed sandstone set beneath steep cliffs, sheltering a small fleet of boats and weathered fishing creels stacked along the piers. Gorgeous old stepped-gabled cottages jut out of the hillside above at severe angles. While the harbour is nowhere near as active as it was in its late 19 th century Herring boom heyday, a handful of fishing vessels still operate, landing live lobster and crab which you can buy fresh off the boat from an iconic old harbourside shack, Reilly Shellfish . 

4.  The Cairnwell Pass

Best for: Taking the high road

Stretching from Glen Shee, Perthshire past the mountain ski resort of the same name to the enchanting Victorian village of Braemar, Aberdeenshire, The Cairnwell Pass is the highest main road in the UK and the southern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park. The drive up – which can also be walked or cycled if you’re feeling fit enough – is literally breathtaking; the land suddenly sweeps sharply upward, and before you know it, you’re hundreds of metres above sea level gazing back down at the glen below. The sudden feeling of transition is profound and overwhelming – a true moment of arrival to the Scottish Highlands. Coming back down at speed makes your ears pop. Truly invigorating stuff. 

5.  V&A Dundee

Best for: A glimpse of modern Scotland

The first design museum in Scotland and the first Victoria and Albert museum outside of London has brought fascinating exhibitions on everything from video games to tartan to the City of Discovery. But you don’t even need to enter Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s dramatic jagged building, inspired by the cliff edges of eastern Scotland, to experience its impact. Juxtaposed with the famous Dundee-built arctic explorer steamship RRS Discovery moored on the Tay next door, the V&A has helped re-shape and revitalise the entire city’s entire waterfront and provides an inspiring glimpse of a Scotland that seizes its future as well as celebrates its past. Sip a summertime beer by the sea at the pop-up outdoor café and you could be anywhere from Copenhagen to New York .

6.  The Small Isles

Best for: Dolphin spotting

Almost as famous as its Highlands are Scotland’s islands , many of the most beautiful of which are to be found off the west coast among the Hebridean Archipelago. While the larger islands of Harris and Lewis, Skye and Mull might attract the most tourists, the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides – Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum – offer up something different. Our favourite? The most populous small Isle, Eigg. H ome to only around 100 people, Eigg is a fascinating experiment in community ownership and sustainable living, and it’s got a stunning beach in the Singing Sands. Rum is a National Nature Reserve, while Canna (with a population only 15) has spectacular cliffs and archaeological sites. If you’re lucky, you can spot seals, dolphins and even whales onboard the ferry there. 

7.  Loch Katrine

Best for: A legendary cruise

It might be dwarfed by the far larger Loch Ness and nearby Loch Lomond, but for an unforgettable experience on and around one of Scotland’s countless famous bodies of inland water, the legendary Loch Katrine in the Trossachs can’t be beaten. This is a mystical, atmospheric spot, completely removed from the outside world and surrounded by huge mountains. So beautiful, in fact, it inspired  Sir Walter Scott’s poem ‘The Lady of the Lake’ and Gioachino Rossini’s opera ‘ La donna del lago’ . 

Badboy hero of Scots folklore Rob Roy MacGregor was born on the loch’s northern shore, and it’s served as as reservoir to the city of Glasgow 30 miles to the south for over 150 years (the still functioning Victorian waterworks are an engineering masterpiece) . There’s still functioning Victorian waterworks to admire, and you can you can hop on a cruise ship adjacent to the  SS Sir Walter Scott steamboat (yes, there’s a bar on board). Or simply walk or cycle a paved path along the northern shore.

8.  Dunnottar Castle

Best for: The crown jewel of Scottish castles

Big ones, small ones, ruined ones, living ones – Scotland has castles to suit every requirement. More than 1,500 in total, spanning over a thousand years in age. Of course, the most beautiful is a matter of taste, but Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire near Stonehaven has to be up there. Built in the 15 th and 16 th centuries, the ruins gaze out at the North Sea from a 160-foot rocky outcrop ringed by cliffs, once the stronghold for one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Earls Marischal, until they lost their titles in the failed 1715 Jacobite rebellion. The Scottish crown jewels were famously hidden here from Oliver Cromwell's invading army in the 17 th century, and exploring Dunnottar’s remains with panoramic sea views is a seriously romantic experience.

9.  Ben Nevis

Best for: The highest of Highland highs

If you’re going to climb a Scottish mountain, might as well make it the biggest of the lot, right? And at 4,411 feet, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in Britain, and is always to be taken seriously – check the weather forecast well in advance before setting out, pack sensibly and wear strong footwear. But know that you don’t have to be a highly seasoned mountaineer to bag this Munro (as Scotland’s 282 mountains over 3,000 feet are known). It’s a relatively straightforward climb if you’re quite fit. Budget for about six to nine hours in all and set off nice and early to give yourself plenty of good daylight at the rocky summit. On a clear day, you’ll get 360° panoramic vistas stretching as far as Northern Ireland. In other words, it’s worth it. 

10.  The Flow Country

Best for: Splendid isolation

You can travel for miles across the barren far north of Scotland in Caithness and Sutherland and scarcely see another living soul or a trace of human habitation. The feeling of isolation is awe-inspiring, like a private audience with vast mountains and plains. A nd yet, the Flow Country as it’s known – the most extensive bog in the world, stretching over 1,500 square miles – will play a crucial role in the future of mankind. The soggy peatlands, formed of the remains of plants, store enormous quantities of carbon for thousands of years. Keeping them alive and healthy is essential in the fight against global warming. A decades-long quest for UNESCO World Heritage status and protection is hoped to be completed in 2024.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

• North Dakota
• Czech Republic
• Switzerland
• Vegan City Guides
• Vegan Travel & Tips
• Vegan Fashion
• Sustainability
• Blogging Tips
• Photo Diaries
• Unfortunate (but hilarious)
• Recommendations
• Get in Touch
• Work With Me
• Best Travel Insurance
• Freelance Gig

• Scotland , United Kingdom

Planning a trip to the UK and wondering what the best places to visit in Scotland are? A magical little country filled with captivating castles, stunning highlands, quaint little villages, lively pubs worthy of cheers-ing in, and historic cities (like Edinburgh!). To help you plan the best Scotland trip, take a look at this 15 crazy awesome places to visit in Scotland that’ll blow your mind!

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

There’s not many places in the world that I love more than Scotland.

With it’s rolling green hills, snow-capped mountains, remote islands dotted along the coast, cascading waterfalls, gorgeous cities , rowdy pubs, and (my personal favorite) the friendly locals with their charming Scottish accents, this small-ish, yet vibrant country packs a lot within its borders!

The first time I visited Scotland in 2017, it immediately became a destination I knew I would return to again and again and again.

Since that incredible trip years ago, Dan ( the wanderful boyfriend ) and I have visited Scotland more times than I can count.

We road tripped the northern coast, strolled through the Christmas Markets of Edinburgh, wild camped on the Isle of Skye, explored Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, visited extraordinary castles like Eilean Donan, and even found ourselves some baby highland cows!

Sounds absolutely magical, doesn’t it?

If you’re ready to plan your own incredible trip to Scotland, I’m here to help you make sure you see the best of the country by making sure you add these crazy awesome places to your Scotland bucket list!

Ever thought about visiting Wales, UK? To get inspired, check out this post next — 10 best places to visit in Wales !

Table of Contents

15 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

Use this list as a starting point for planning your first Scotland trip! The destinations below are delightful blend of both popular points of interest and more underrated places to visit in Scotland so you can see the best of this beautiful country.

One of my absolute favorite cities in all the world, Edinburgh features everything you could ever want in a destination.

• Captivating history — both dark and light.
• Wondrous architecture and beautiful buildings.
• Friendly pubs perfect for having a refreshing pint in (or some traditional Scotch whisky!).
• Delicious cafes, restaurants, and eateries (I recommend trying some vegan haggis !).
• Amazing tours to uncover what makes Edinburgh unique (including completely FREE tours for those on a budget!).
• Magical Harry Potter sites if you’re a wanna-be wizard!

And so much more. Edinburgh is a place you could spend weeks in discovering all it has to offer and no doubt, as one of the best places to visit in Scotland, it should be high up on your Scotland bucket list!

For a list of the best things to do in Edinburgh, check out this post !

The Northern Coast (Scotland 500)

This one is for all the adventurers who yearn to go off-the-beaten path and discover the true, rough beauty of Scotland!

The North Coast 500, or the Scotland 500 road trip, is a scenic route encompassing 500-ish miles of rugged landscapes, sea views, magical mountains, castles, wild terrain, heritage sites, quaint Scottish villages, and more.

A seriously overlooked region of Scotland, I find most travelers completely disregard the very northern bit and flock to the more well-known places, like Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, but believe me when I say, it is 100% worth a visit!

The views of the sea alone are breathtaking, let alone the weather-beaten landscapes and wild mountains.

If you do decide to rent a car and do your own road trip, don’t forget to check out my awesome road trip packing list !

Isle of Skye

No doubt, the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular destinations in Scotland. And with good reason!

With endless rolling hills, gorgeous sea views, colorful villages , charming farming communities, adorable Scottish pubs, and otherworldly landscapes, the Isle of Skye has to be on your list of places to visit in Scotland — especially if it’s your first trip here!

I personally loved exploring the colorful village of Portree, Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, Museum of Island Life (SO COOL!), and Dunvegan Castle!

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re looking for great outdoor activities!

Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, boating, strolling through lush forests, sailing, paddle-boarding, gorgeous castles, camping, or another nature-loving activity, this is a marvelous destination in Scotland.

But that’s not all this gorgeous national park has to offer!

There’s also cool castles , adorable towns, fun distilleries, and amazing boat cruises that take travelers around the beautiful Loch Lomond, which is the main lake in the park.

Are you a big fan of national parks? Check out this post on hiking Loughrigg Fell near Ambleside in the Lake District National Park in England !

Typically overshadowed by the larger cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, Inverness is Scotland’s northernmost city and is often just a jumping off point for those exploring the rugged northern region.

However, Inverness still makes this list of the best places to visit in Scotland because while it might not be as gorgeous as Edinburgh or as hip as Glasgow, it still has its charms!

Strolling along the River Ness, walking through its quaint streets, marveling at the architecture, tantalizing your taste buds at Scottish restaurants, browsing at quaint local-owned shops , visiting the beautiful Inverness Castle, admiring flora at the Botanic Gardens, and so much more.

Eilean Donan Castle

Another iconic Scotland attraction that you’ll often find high up on the list of the best places to visit in this magical country, the Eilean Donan Castle is hands down one of the most beautiful castles I’ve ever seen and visited!

While it doesn’t have the traditional beauty of many other European castles , Eilean Donan Castle is perched upon its own rocky island (its name actually translates as “island of Donan”) and features a dark, weather-beaten exterior.

It’s also situated between the fierce lakes of Loch Alsh and Loch Duich, and surrounded by the rugged hills of the highlands, which lends to this classic Scotland attraction’s dramatic setting.

If you’re a lover of all things castles, why not visit Wales? Known as “The Land of Castles,” Wales has so much to offer! Check out my 33 reasons to visit Wales for more inspo.

Cairngorms National Park

Are you a wildlife lover ? Or maybe just need an off-the-grid getaway after visiting the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow?

This is a one of the best places to do so in Scotland! In fact, Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s largest national park , so you know there’s so much amazingness to discover here.

A magical place where you’ll find countless wildlife (even reindeers!), infinite hikes , and breathtaking highland views you’ll no doubt want to take endless photos of.

Alternatively, if you’re visiting Scotland in the winter and craving a cheeky ski trip, Cairngorms National Park is the perfect place to hit the slopes!

Glencoe and its stunning landscapes are quintessentially Scotland and everything you would expect to see in this beautiful country!

At every turn in the road and as you round every hill, your breath will be taken away again and again (and probably again). I honestly can’t believe I didn’t break my neck from craning it out the window while admiring the views when driving through Glencoe!

When traveling around the area of Glencoe, don’t miss out on visiting the Three Sisters of Glencoe and the Wee White House (also known as Lagangarbh Hut)!

Even better, if you have a tent or a car you can sleep in, wild camping in Glencoe is absolutely amazing!

Dan (the wanderful boyfriend) and I wild camped near Loch Etive, which is not far from the Three Sisters. It was a magical experience to say the least! We were completely alone and went to sleep under a sky full of sparkling stars and woke up to deer grazing along the water.

Culloden Battlefield

If you’re a history lover , then Culloden Battlefield is a must-visit place in Scotland for you!

The Battle Of Culloden  happened on April 16th, 1746 as the last effort of the Jacobites to regain the British Throne for Stuart King James II (and preserve the Scottish Culture).

In fact, the Battle of Culloden was the last battle ever to take place on British soil! And it only took around 46 minutes from start to finish. Crazy, right?

It took place between King George II’s army of 8,000 men and the Jacobites army of 6,000 men. In the end, historians guess only 300 British soldiers died, while 1,500 to 2,000 Jacobites lost their lives.

These days, gravestones line the grounds that are marked with historic clan names, like Clan Macdonald, Clan Maclachlan, and Clan Fraser (Outlander, anyone?).

As someone who both loves history and the show Outlander, it was a joy (and a bit of a downer, but in a good, learning sort of way) to visit the Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre.

Fort Augustus & Loch Ness

A small, picturesque village in Scotland, Fort Augustus sits nestled against the far west site of Loch Ness and is such an underrated gem!

One of the top places to visit in Scotland, Fort Augustus features quaint little local shops, delicious eateries with tantalizing smells wafting out the front doors, sparkling canals with boats bobbing in the blue waters, and breathtaking views of endless Loch Ness!

While I only had just a few hours in Loch Ness when on a 3-day tour around Scotland , I so dearly wished I had more time in this adorable place! (And maybe a bit more time to search for the notorious Nessie lurking about in Loch Ness…)

The city of Glasgow, which is the largest in Scotland, is like the more rowdy little sister to the city of Edinburgh.

While Edinburgh is refined and elegant with an often dark sense of humor, Glasgow is a vibrant and bustling busy-bee with a short attention span but an alluring and captivating personality!

Metaphors aside, Glasgow is truly spectacular and has so much to offer, especially if you’re a city-break type of traveler!

Here are some of the best attractions and sites to see in Glasgow:

• Glasgow Cathedral
• The Necropolis
• George Square and the City Chambers
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• The medieval Provand’s Lordship
• University of Glasgow (SUCH a beauty!)
• Glasgow Botanic Gardens

There are so many more things to do in Glasgow but this list features some of the best, which can all be seen if you only have a short time in the city!

Scottish Highlands

Okay, so I know a couple other destinations on this list are *technically* located in the Scottish Highlands but this region deserves a spot of its own!

Aside from the popular locations of Eilean Donan Castle, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness, and Inverness, the Scottish Highlands encompass a whole bunch of other adorable villages, crazy good walks and hikes , stunning viewpoints, spectacular lochs (lakes), and so much more.

If you’re wanting to get off the Scotland tourist trail and uncover your own little slice of heaven in this wondrous country, I recommend renting a car and going into the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Veer off the main roads and venture into smaller, lesser-known places like Glenfinnan, Applecross, Plockton, and Kylesku. You won’t be disappointed!

John o’ Groats

John o’ Groats is the northernmost post in mainland UK and is often a place many stop at when embarking on the North Coast 500 road trip!

Though it’s a pretty touristy destination, I still think it’s one of the best places to visit in Scotland because of its unique location.

Also, it’s a great place if you want to visit some of the more unique Scottish islands! (Like the Shetland Islands, very much know for their Shetland ponies.)

Not to mention, it has a beloved mileage sign stating how far popular places around the world are from John o’ Groats! Cool, right? I love these quirky little signs!

If you’re an experienced hiker and want to tack on some miles while traveling around and visiting the best places in Scotland, I highly recommend climbing Ben Nevis.

At 1,345 meters (4,412 feet), Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in the UK and as you climb to its summit, the hike delivers breathtaking views of the surrounding Grampian Mountain Range, deep valleys dotted with sparkling lochs, and the whimsical Scottish Highlands.

However, unless it’s a crystal clear day, you’ll often find the summit is blanketed by thick clouds and — sometimes — a dense fog that hides any views from the top!

Nonetheless, the satisfaction and views during the hike are nothing to pass up if you’re into this type of activity.

For a more personal story on what climbing Ben Nevis is like, as well as essential tips if you do embark on hiking this mountain, I recommend reading this detailed blog on hiking Ben Nevis from Shing at The Culture Map !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kaz Davies (@kazdavies52)

Craigh na Dun (Lassintullich)

This one is particularly for all my fellow Outlander fans out there!

Craigh na Dun, which is closely located to the small town of Lassintullich, is where you’ll find the shooting location for the stone circle. And yes, it’s just as magical in person as it is on the TV show!

So, if you’re wanting to make all your friends and family who also watch Outlander jealous, I recommend making a quick stop at this gorgeous place when driving from Edinburgh to the north, such as Inverness or Loch Ness.

It’s not too far off the A9, which is the main highway that heads north from Edinburgh! Not to mention, the scenery around Craigh na Dun is absolutely stunning. Totally worth a quick pit stop and photo op!

Top Tips for a Scotland Trip

Below you’ll find a quick overview of my top tips for having an exceptionally awesome and memorable trip to Scotland!

Where should you stay in Scotland?

This totally depends on how many days you have in Scotland, as well as the top places you really want to visit.

If flying into Scotland, the major cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow are usually the easiest. From there you can easily reach the rest of the country by rental car (which is hands down the simplest way to travel Scotland).

I recommend finding a suitable rental car through either Kayak or Momondo !

Furthermore, I highly recommend staying in Edinburgh for a couple nights, as well as one night in Glasgow . From Glasgow, you can make your way north.

Some great towns and villages to stay in around the north of Scotland are:

• Fort William (great base for Ben Nevis hikers!)
• On the Isle of Skye — Portree (very popular), Dunvegan , or near Carbost
• Ullapool (North Highlands near the coast)
• Inverness (known as the “Capital of the Highlands” and a great jumping off point)

What’s the best way to get around Scotland?

As mentioned above, I definitely think the best way to get around Scotland is by car. (Or rental car.)

This gives you the freedom to see the more underrated and lesser-visited places in Scotland that other travelers on a tour bus or public transportation can’t get to!

Find a suitable rental car through either Kayak or Momondo !

How much time should you spend in Scotland?

I recommend at least one week. This gives you enough time to see some of the best places in Scotland and to not feel so rush while doing so!

I don’t know about you but I loathe feeling rushed and like I’m always out of time. This ensures I’m never fully relaxed on a trip or fully present in the moment. Not fun!

However, if you are short on time and don’t want to do it all yourself, there are a plethora of exceptional tours you can go on to make things easy!

This takes the planning off your shoulders and allows you to just relax and let the tour bus take you around Scotland!

I personally went on a 3-day tour around the Isle of Skye, Highlands, and Loch Ness when I first visited Scotland and it was SO nice to just let other people take care of the trip details! Not to mention, having a knowledgeable tour guide to share interesting info and the history about locations is incredible.

Here are a few highly-rated tours that visit some of the places on this list:

• From Edinburgh: 3-day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness
• North Coast 500: 3-Day Small-Group Tour from Inverness
• From Glasgow: Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye 5-Day Tour
• Edinburgh 5-Day Tour of Loch Ness, Isle of Skye & Highlands
• From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands Tour

What are some packing essentials for Scotland?

With its turbulent and unpredictable weather, as well as the sometimes rough terrain and rugged environment, it’s important to pack these essentials for your Scotland trip!

• Lightweight rain jacket (bring on the unpredictable weather!). I love the Columbia rain jackets !
• Comfortable shoes — For fall/winter, I brought walking boost; for summer/spring, I brought comfortable sandals & slip-ons.
• Hair band if you have long hair — Scotland can be windyyy!
• Small backpack — perfect for day trips and holding all your things in! (Check out this post on the best vegan day trip bags , including backpacks!)
• High-quality camera — I use and recommend the Sony mirrorless cameras ! They’re lightweight and produce beautiful photos.
• Reusable water bottle — Don’t be that tourist who only drinks from single-use plastic water bottles! Bring your own and be a more sustainable traveler . I love my GRAYL filtering water bottle . (I filled it up from fresh mountain streams in Scotland!)

Whoa whoa whoa! What a whopper of a post, amirite?

Now you might be a little overwhelmed when planning a trip to Scotland but this list of the best places to visit in the country should help you narrow down the top destinations and attractions you want to add to your Scotland Bucket List.

Tell me, which of these crazy awesome places in Scotland do you want to visit first?!

When I head back to Scotland (hopefully later this year!), I plan on going off-the-grid in Cairngorms National Park or getting my hike on at Ben Nevis!

Use the comment section below to share your favorites on this list and when you plan on visiting Scotland in the future!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• Top 30 things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland (don’t miss #12!)
• Hiking Blencathra via Sharp Edge in the Lake District – England, UK
• 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK (#7 is a must!)
• 3 fantastic, lesser-known alternatives for popular UK destinations
• Road tripping through southern England and the often forgotten country of Wales
• Escaping the hustle & bustle of life to the cutest Shepherd’s Hut in Devon, England

Love this post on the best places to visit in Scotland? Pin it!

As mentioned above, this post contains affiliate links. Which means if you make a purchase through the links, this site receives a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclosure here .

Related Posts

An enchanting week away in the stunning Scottish Highlands

8 unique things to do in Wales, UK (#2 is my favorite!)

The ultimate 7-day itinerary for Wales, UK

Leave a comment cancel comment.

Sign me up for The Wanderful Me newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

One Week in Scotland

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

 Daryl Benson/Getty Images

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

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

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Ferne Arfin

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

St Andrews - The Home of Golf

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

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

Dundee - UNESCO City of Design

 Iain Masterton/Getty Images

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

The Scottish Borders

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

Cairngorms National Park

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

The Great Glen

Massimiliano Broggi/Getty Images

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

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

Stirling Castle

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

Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan - the Hollow Mountain

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

The Isle of Skye

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

The Shetlands

Michael Nolan/robert harding/Getty Images

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

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

 Argalis/Getty Images

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

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

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

David Lefranc/Getty Images 

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

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

Top UK Destinations for Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

Top 10 Castles to Visit in Scotland

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

Top 8 Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland

15 Most Amazing Scottish Islands to Visit

12 Best Beaches in Scotland

Cairngorms National Park: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

• Blog & Content Creation (3)
• Bucket List Destinations (39)
• Digital Nomadism (44)
• Scotland (46)
• Van Build (11)
• Van Life (6)

59+ Best Places to Visit in Scotland (Written By A Local)

• 27th February 2022
• 14 minute read

This country is one for the wild to run free, take bold swims and explore ruined castles. It’s unforgiving, but giving; harsh but oh-so-pretty! Does this sound like your cup of tea?.. These are the best places to visit in Scotland – recommended to you by a local.

With our mountainous landscapes, secluded beaches and overall encapsulating scenery; my country is bursting with beauty! Scotland is my birthplace and my home, and as each adventure unfolds, my love for this rugged paradise grows stronger and deeper.

Psst!… You may want to keep a note of these locations for your own visit to Scotland. Scroll down to the bottom of this exhaustive list to access a Google Map with most of the coordinates (and more) already pinpointed for your convenience.

Table of Contents

…for beaches, …for castles, …for culture, …for design, …for highland coos, …for hill-walking, …for history, …for island life, …for mountains, …for outdoor adventure sports, …for the prettiest village, …for a road trip, …for seafood, …for shipwrecks, …for train-spotting, …for waterfalls, …for wildlife, …for wild swimming, things to do & what to see in scotland, scottish highlands google map legend, save this to pinterest….

Don’t have time to read this now? Save this blog for later on Pinterest .

The Best Places to Visit in Scotland…

Time your visit with the odd day or two of summer and you will be gobsmacked by the beauty of our beaches! Take this from a Scottish Highlander and full-time traveller… I’d argue that Scotland has some of the best beaches in the world! But… What are the best beaches in Scotland?

After one quick image search of Luskentyre Beach, you’ll be sold! Luskentyre can be found in the south of the island of Lewis and Harris . The place has some of the most amazing views in Scotland. You can rest assured, knowing that they are totally worth the often choppy ferry ride and the long drive to get there!

Hushinish is located as far west as you can drive in Harris. However, once you arrive you’ll be greeted with its turquoise waters, fine sand and rugged backdrop of hills and lochs. The area is a Scottish paradise!

For more information, read this guide to the campsite and beach at Hushinish.

Sandwood Bay

Located in the remote corner of northwest Scotland, this sandy beach rewards those who take on the 4-mile walk beforehand.

Achmelvich is in the northwest of Scotland, 40 miles north of Ullapool and along the North Coast 500 . This beach does not disappoint; its perfect white sand and clear water ensure that it’s noticed by anyone who so chooses to endure the windy roads to drive there. The area is also home to Europe’s Smallest Castle .

Red Point is a remote peninsula 10 miles southwest of Gairloch in Wester Ross. It has two secluded sandy beaches that are backed by reasonably tall dunes and grassy slopes, with the most northerly being characterised by its red-hued sand. This is a great destination for anyone seeking to find some tranquillity.

Scotland is home to thousands of castles! Whether they are still standing pretty and proud, or broken into ruins; you’ll want to visit at least a few to experience Scotland’s iconic history!

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

The ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe are a popular stop-off on the northeast coast of the Highlands. They are dramatic, enchanting and very Game of Thrones!

Eilean Donan Castle

It doesn’t matter if Eilean Donan Castle is surrounded by a thick and moody mist or standing proud in the stillness of a clear blue sky, this castle is always photogenic! In fact, it has also featured in blockbuster movies such as James Bond and Highlander. For your convenience, there are many guided tours from Edinburgh that include Eilean Donan Castle within their itinerary.

Urquhart Castle

With such a superb location, Urquhart Castle is amongst some outstanding views of Loch Ness . Nowadays, the castle is accompanied by a huge visitor centre that includes a restaurant and a large gift shop.

Hermit’s Castle

It’s not uncommon to be dazzled by the white sand and turquoise waters of Achmelvich Beach , but if you walk a little further you will find Europe’s Smallest Castle . This is one of the more unique places to visit in Scotland!

Dunrobin Castle

About a mile past Golspie stands a classically fairytale castle that has a garden well-kept to impress. Between towers, turrets and falconry displays, this castle is on a whole other level than the others!

The official Fringe website states that the Edinburgh Fringe Festival ‘ is the single greatest celebration of arts and culture on the planet ‘. For three weeks in August, Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital city welcomes thousands of people from all over the world to honour creativity across its varying forms. It’s a colourful, energetic and joyful period as artists and performers take to the stage and locals gather in busy beer gardens.

The centrepiece of Dundee’s recent revival is Scotland’s first-ever design museum. The V&A Dundee is now something of a cultural hub in the city. Here, visitors can marvel at the evolution of design inside an array of both permanent and temporary exhibitions from around the world.

These furry beasts can be spotted in fields all over Scotland, and not just in the Scottish Highlands. In fact, you may even find one blocking your road ahead!

If you are looking for a more certain encounter with one of these cute, and very photogenic animals, then keep your eyes particularly peeled at the following locations.

Hushinish is a popular beach and park-up on the Isle of Harris . Incoming cars, campervans and motorhomes are often slowed down by a group of slow-moving Highland Cows on the road (one of which has been pictured below) .

Culloden Battlefield

Highland Cows are quite often kept in the nearby field to the entrance of the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre . This is on the outskirts of Inverness which is the capital city of the Scottish Highlands.

Rothiemurchus

Plan the perfect date to meet a Highland Cow with the Rothiemurchus Centre near Aviemore. From there, you can follow a ranger on a coo safari to a field of hairy Highlands who will be happy to pose for a selfie, or two!

You cannae visit Scotland without going for a wee hill walk! However, if you are more adventurous, you might want to bag a Munro or two.

The Bones Caves

Both the hiking route and the remarkable views from the Bones Caves make for the perfect introductory walk to the northwest Highlands of Scotland.

Stac Pollaidh

Our beloved Stac Pollaidh is small enough to be considered an easy climb, yet tall enough to yield some absolutely breathtaking views over the Summer Isles.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is one of the most popular, and consequently, the busiest walk on the Isle of Skye. The ‘Old Man’ is a large prominent pinnacle of rock that stands tall amongst other interesting rock formations. This place is a haven for photographers!

Hiking to the top of Ben Nevis is one of Scotland’s bigger challenges; Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom. At 1,345 metres, you should have experience in hill-walking if you are going to attempt this one!

Arthur’s Seat

This recommendation is by far, not the biggest and most beautiful hill walk that Scotland has to offer, but it is a popular choice with visitors to Edinburgh . With only a short walk, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the City of Edinburgh , the bridges, and beyond!

Knoydart is a remote peninsula that is only accessed by foot or boat. The area is dramatic and untamed with bold peaks and beautiful views across the water to the rugged Small Isle hilltops and the Skye Cuillins.

As a born and bred Scottish Highlander, I believe that the array of history that Scotland encompasses is often taken for granted by the local people. Most car journeys, or towns even, involve some kind of impressive milestone of Scotland’s past. To any visitor, there is plenty for you to spot, stop and admire.

One of Orkney’s most-visited ancient sites is Skara Brae. This is a remarkable and well-preserved Neolithic village, take a step back in time whilst you wander amongst these homes.

Callanish Standing Stones

The Callanish Standing Stones is one of Scotland’s most iconic sights of historical interest. Their exact reason for existing has been lost to history. Can you work out the mystery?

Balmoral Cairns

Did you know Scotland has a pyramid ? The majority of cairns in the Balmoral Estate were erected by Queen Victoria to commemorate members of the Royal family, with others marking important events.

There are around 790 islands off the coast of Scotland; 94 of which are inhabited. Once you’ve experienced one, island-hopping around Scotland could quickly become your new travel addiction!

Isle of Lewis and Harris

The change of pace, lifestyle and traditions of Lewis and Harris is what attracts many visitors to this island. Learn more about an island road trip around Lewis and Harris here.

Tucked away between Skye, Rona and the mainland of Scotland is the Isle of Raasay. It may only be 14 miles long and 5 miles wide, but there are several good walks and some fascinating historical sights to visit across the island.

Orkney & Shetland

The Orkney and Shetland Islands are often referred to as the Northern Isles. Each island has a distinct character, with an array of natural wonders and interesting historical sites to explore.

The Isle of Canna is the westernmost and most northerly of the four islands known as the Small Isles in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. The island is also connected to the neighbouring island of Sanday by a small road bridge and sandbanks at low tide.

Of the four islands in the Small Isles, the Isle of Rum is the largest of the archipelago. However this is not respective to the island’s population, in fact, there are many more red deer on the island than people  – we’re talking tens of residents to hundreds of deer!

Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona offers picture-perfect sandy beaches, excellent walking opportunities, a quaint village experience and the possibility of wildlife sightings on both the land and sea. At just three miles long by one mile wide, visiting the Iona is like experiencing Scotland on a miniature scale.

One of the greatest pleasures of a visit to Scotland is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mountainous landscapes. The Scottish Highlands is an unmissable part of the country!

Surrounded by the drama of the Glencoe Valley, Glencoe is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland – these landscapes are to die for!

The Cairngorm National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. It includes five of the six highest summits in the UK. This wild mountainous area is a playground for wildlife watchers and adventure sports enthusiasts.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Or, perhaps you’re on a hunt for a challenging route to scramble, climb, ski or snowboard? If you are looking for a real adventure, then two towns instantly spring to mind as the best places to visit in Scotland for outdoor sports.

Fort William

Fort William is the beating heart of Scotland’s outdoor adventure sports. In fact, it’s widely reported as the ‘ Outdoor Capital of the UK ‘. If you take one wander around town, you’ll be surrounded by hillwalkers, mountain bikers, climbers and other like-minded individuals. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Scottish Highlands for the more adventurous travellers!

Aviemore is the gateway to the Cairngorms. It’s a happening place all year round, whether it be with snowsports or other outdoor activities. In fact, if you happen to time your visit with an event, you could find yourself being amongst anything from a Huskey Race to a Harley Davidson Rally. Hiking and wild swimming is also extremely popular in the Cairngorms.

Much of Scotland’s charm and Scottish culture can be found in the pretty communities dotted around the country. The best places to visit in Scotland for quaint villages are typically the seaside towns, though there are of course many others in between.

Situated on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Mull , the colourful fishing town of Tobermory is one of the most picturesque towns in Scotland. So much so, that the children’s TV series, Balamory, was filmed there in recent years.

Portree is the capital town of the Isle of Skye. It is yet another picture-perfect waterfront with brightly-coloured buildings. Plus, the drive there is just as gorgeous!

Dean Village

Situated five minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, Dean Village is a much more peaceful setting on the Water of Leith in Edinburgh .

Shieldaig is a quaint village of Wester Ross in the northwest of the Scottish Highlands. As the buildings overlook Loch Torridon, the front street is worth a slow wander to take it all in.

Plockton is another one of Scotland’s pretty fishing villages. Unfortunately, the tiny streets of Plockton can’t cope with many crowds or larger vehicles so this one is not recommended for motorhomes or campervans.

Scotland’s public transport system is not the best, especially around any remote area of the country. That being the case, many choose to enjoy the expansive scenery with a self-guided road trip.

The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, otherwise known as the NC500, is the ‘Route 66’ of the Scottish Highlands. It links together over 500 miles of unforgettable experiences and picturesque park-ups , including white sandy beaches, remote fishing villages, jaw-dropping valleys, coastal scenery then rough-and-ready mountains. The road links some of the top places to visit in Scotland.

Click here for a Highlander’s Guide to Scotland’s North Coast 500 .

Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides

The islands are where you can truly experience the wilderness of Scotland. A road trip through the Outer Hebrides will be an adventure, but spending some time on Lewis and Harris will be a great introduction. There, visitors will be able to have some of the most local experiences in Scotland without the distraction of large crowds.

It has been estimated that Scotland’s coastline is over 11,500 miles. With that being said, it would be rude not to indulge in the recipes of seafood whilst you are there!

The Oban Seafood Hut is the best place to savour superb seafood without the expense of an upmarket restaurant. It’s the small shack near the ferry terminal, usually with a queue.

Situated on the northwest coast, Mallaig is the final call along the famous Road to the Isles. It’s a fascinating harbour town which accommodates many fishermen, ferry goers and tourists disembarking the Jacobite Steam Train. Naturally, the town boasts many seafood restaurants as they sell some of the freshest produce around.

This charming port town is on the shores of Loch Broom. Ullapool is home to the award-winning Seafood Shack , this is a favourite to locals and visitors alike.

With a rich maritime history, miles of harsh coastline and wild winds, it’s unsurprising that Scotland has quite the collection of shipwrecks. Some are still unfound, whilst others have become a sight to behold as they slowly decay close to shore.

Scapa Flow is a sheltered body of water that has played an important role in travel, trade and conflict over the years. In more recent times, Scapa Flow has ranked as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Even if you don’t take a peek beneath the waters, the stories the area above the water has to tell are endless!

In my opinion, the Old Boat of Caol is Scotland’s most photogenic wreckage. Within a short drive from Fort William , this emotive shipwreck lies peacefully upon the stony beach of Corpach.

There are train connections within each of Scotland’s seven cities, plus, the rail network links many towns and villages across the country. As these services travel across the Scottish Highlands, there are many spectacular arched bridges that support the train lines; beautiful for photographs and perfect for trainspotting.

Culloden Viaduct

If you are travelling by train, you may cross the Culloden Viaduct without even realising it. The structure is in regular use, however, there aren’t any steam trains on this one.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Whether you are an avid trainspotter, an obsessed Harry Potter or someone in between, watching the Jacobite Steam Train travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unforgettable magic moment!

With the varying levels of terrain and notorious rainfall, Scotland has some pretty spectacular waterfalls hidden within glens, hills and forests.

Wailing Widow Falls

You’d think that finding beauty like the Wailing Widow Falls would only be a result of a long, enduring hike. As remote as Loch Na Gainmhich is, the whole area and the amazing waterfall are actually fairly accessible – just bring your wellies!

Steall Falls

The Steall Falls Walk is often described as one of the best short walks in Scotland. The hike is simple, yet the results are rewarding. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Steall Falls is also an iconic location that is featured in The Goblet of Fire and The Half-Blood Prince.

Scotland is one of the best places in Europe to spot marine wildlife. Also, thanks to two national parks, there are also many habitats in which you can observe land mammals, and birds too!

On the road to Hushinish, a small parking area and a 1.3-mile long track direct hikers to an observatory that has been built specifically to watch golden eagles.

Duncansby Head

Whether you are a birdwatcher or not, you will not want to miss out on an opportunity to see puffins . Duncansby Head is just one of the many places to see these cute and colourful birds. The best time to spot them is between March and May.

The Outer Hebrides

Marine wildlife is in an abundance in and around the Outer Hebrides . In fact, you are likely to spot something on a ferry ride across the Minch. The Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust have a great website with specie profiles, and where you might be likely to spot them.

Orkney and Shetland can offer the best chance of spotting killer whales. You are more likely to spot them during the summer months of May to July, although sightings have been made during these times.

Chanonry Point

A narrow peninsula, which is near Rosemarkie and a little further from Inverness , is the ideal location for spotting dolphins in the Moray Firth. Dolphin activity at this location depends on the tidal conditions, but if you time it right, you’ll witness a great display of bottlenose dolphins from a very close distance.

There are hundreds of lochs in Scotland, and the sea is just as uninviting, but the invigorating, adrenaline-pumping splash into cold water is still an unmissable Scottish experience. Here are all but a few of the best places to visit in Scotland for a wild swim…

Wild swimming in Loch Ness should only be done at your own risk because this body of water has a resident monster!.. She’s called Nessie.

Loch Morlich

With only a short drive from Aviemore, Loch Morlich is a very popular option for watersports, walking, relaxation and wild swimming.

Loch an Eilein

Loch an Eilein is an extremely beautiful body of water that feels secluded from the world by the pines of Rothiemurchus Forest. All of these natural features surround a ruined island castle that sits peacefully within swimming distance from the shore.

Achmelvich Beach

This beach is so deserving of its third mention on this list of ‘the best places to visit in Scotland’. With clear water, white sand and an alluring coastline to explore; it’s a haven for wild swimmers.

This may be the answer to all of your questions!.. It has all of the Scotland destinations plotted on an interactive map for your convenience. That way, you will not miss out on any of the best places to visit in Scotland!

This Google Map Legend showcases 140+ need-to-know coordinates within our bonnie Scottish Highlands & Islands:

• Awesome Wild Camping Park-Ups
• Best Walks, Viewpoints, Beaches
• Bucket List Locations
• Accessible Showers & Fresh Water Taps
• Relevant Links to Online Travel Guides

Let’s go! @katie.maree

Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

You May Also Like

What to Pack for the North Coast 500 (Advice from a Local)

• 2nd April 2023

Driving in Scotland for the First Time: 13 Must-Know Tips

• 20th March 2023

26 BEST Things To Do In Inverness City Centre (Scotland)

• 19th February 2023

Red Point Beach Walk: The COMPLETE Guide

• 9th January 2023

TOP 7: What is the Best Road Trip in Scotland for 2023?

• 5th January 2023

15 Best Tours from Inverness of the Highlands

• 22nd September 2022

9 of the Best Highland Tours from Glasgow

• 21st September 2022

What is the Best Month to Visit Scotland?

• 17th September 2022
• Pingback: Campervan Outer Hebrides: Your Island-Hopping Guide - KatieGoes
• Pingback: Best Cafes in Inverness to Work with Laptop-Friendly Spaces - KatieGoes
• Pingback: Old Boat of Caol: Scotland's Most Photogenic Shipwreck - KatieGoes
• Pingback: The Best Scottish Highland Tours from Edinburgh (Including Skye) - KatieGoes
• Pingback: Isle of Mull Information: Things To Do & Where To Stay - KatieGoes
• Pingback: Where in Scotland are the Highland Cows? (19+ Locations) - KatieGoes

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland (best things to see & do)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 5, 2023

If you are struggling to choose destinations for your Scottish travel itinerary this article will be a good place to start. While it is extremely difficult to just choose 19 of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland (this list could be very long!) these are my top picks!

Consider this post as an overview of some of the best places to visit in Scotland. You will also find links to more detailed posts that you can click through to help you plan your visit once you have firmed up your general travel itinerary.

Need help starting the planning process? Check out my complete guide to planning your trip which includes the step-by-step process we go through when we plan our own travels.

1. Edinburgh

2. the kelpies, 3. isle of skye, 4. the scottish highlands, 5. speyside whisky tour, 6. the west highland line – glasgow to fort william and the glenfinnan viaduct , 7. the orkneys, 8. loch ness and castle urquhart, 9. loch lomond and the trossachs national park, 10. stirling castle, 11. glasgow.

• 12. Scotland's islands

13. Drive the North Coast 500

14. st andrews, 15. cairngorms, 16. aberdeen, 17. balmoral castle, 18. pitlochry, 19. glen etive (skyfall drive), fast facts – scotland.

• FAQ's planning your visit to Scotland

When is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

What should i pack for scotland, is it expensive to visit scotland, 19 beautiful places to visit in scotland.

Scotland is divided into a number of geographical regions which include the Highlands, the Borders, Stirling & The Trossachs, Edinburgh & the Lothians, Glasgow & Clyde Valley, Fife, Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway, Perthshire and the island groups of Orkney, the Shetland Islands and the Hebrides (the Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides)

At the end of the article, you will find a map showing the regions and the location of every place and sight recommended to help you plan your Scotland sightseeing itinerary.

For many visitors to the UK, a trip to Edinburgh is a must-see in their itinerary. The Scottish capital has much to offer and is the perfect starting point for further exploration into Scotland (or into Northumberland in the North East of England ).

I recommend that you include a visit to Edinburgh Castle , stroll the Royal Mile, do a little shopping on Princes Street, enjoy the colourful botanical gardens and soak in the Scottish culture and history.

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and deserve at least a day or two to explore and discover.

You can read more in my complete guide to visiting Edinburgh which includes itineraries, what to do and see and where to stay plus my guide to the best day trips from Edinburgh .

Edinburgh is also the perfect departure point for some of the most beautiful train journeys in the UK too.

Read more | 25 things to do and see in Edinburgh Scotland

A number of years ago I remember seeing a TV show in the UK which showcased 2 stunning horse head structures.

Standing at over 30 metres high and lit against the dark of night they were probably one of the most beautiful sights I had ever seen and I knew I had to go and see them.

And if you are heading to Scotland I highly recommend going to see them for yourself.

What exactly are Kelpies? Well according to Scottish folklore Kelpies are mythical creatures reputed to take the form of horses.

This stunning homage to the working horses of Scotland can be found in The Helix Park in Falkirk a short train ride from Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Read more | A guide to visiting “The Kelpies”

A popular destination made even more famous following the success of the TV series “Outlander” the Isle of Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides . 

With stunning scenery and landscapes, Skye is a nature lovers paradise. Don’t miss the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr and a photo opportunity with some Highland cattle!

To reach the Isle of Skye you have a number of options.

• If you prefer public transport take the train to the Kyle of Lochalsh then a bus over to Skye.
• Alternatively hire a car and include Skye in your Scottish road trip itinerary.
• Or if you prefer there are tours to Skye available from Edinburgh (multi-day) or Inverness (one day)

Read more – Isle of Skye Travel Guide | A one-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye 

Inverness, Loch Ness, Fort William, Aviemore, the Cairngorms National Park, Mallaig, Culloden, Wick….the list of what to see and places to visit in the Scottish Highlands is long.

In fact, I could easily put together an extensive bucket list for the Highlands alone so along with some of the highlights (Skye, Urquhart Castle , the Glenfinnan Viaduct ) I am placing the entire area into this list.

If you are planning to visit Scotland a trip to the Highlands should be on your itinerary. If you are pushed for time take a tour for a couple of days to see the highlights or if you have longer plan a car trip or rail journey.

If you are a Harry Potter fan we highly recommend booking the Jacobite train from Fort William to Mallaig (or Hogwarts) – read more about how to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland.

We have travelled extensively throughout Scotland by train and will be publishing some recommended train travel itineraries for Scotland in the near future.

Read more | Scottish Highlands Travel Guide / Inverness Travel Guide

If you enjoy malt whisky a tour of the Speyside distilleries is a must. Speyside is only one of the 5 whisky-making regions in Scotland but it is home to 50 distilleries (over half of Scotland’s distilleries) and the famous Speyside Malt Whisky Trail . 

Famous whisky distilleries in Speyside include Glenfiddich, Glenlivet and Dalwhinnie.

The trail takes 3 days but if you want to relax and enjoy the whisky a guided tour is your best option.

Read more | Speyside Malt Whisky Trail

One of the most scenic train rides in the UK is the West Highland Line between Glasgow and Fort William.

Catch the Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig (often described as the best train journey in the world) and cross the Glenfinnan viaduct made famous worldwide after appearing in a number of Harry Potter films .

TIP – If you plan to book the Jacobite (which only runs during the summer months) it is essential to do this as early as possible as it can be fully booked for months ahead. 

Alternatively, many tours of Scotland include the Jacobite train ride such as this 9-day tour of Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye from London.

Read more | How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

The Orkneys are an island archipelago located off the northeastern shores of Scotland. Consisting of over 70 islands with Orkney Mainland, Rousay and Hoy the most visited The Orkneys are a fabulous destination during the summer months.

Famous for seals, puffins and Neolithic sites the island’s highlights include Scapa Flow, the Old Man of Hoy and Skara Brae.

Take a road trip to the Orkneys or alternatively fly into Kirkwall with Loganair from any of the main Scottish airports. 

It is also possible to travel to the Orkneys via train and bus with connections to ferry services to the islands.

Read more | A guide to Scotland’s islands | Things to do on Mainland Orkney

Related reading – Top 21 landmarks to see in England!

Situated 21 km south of Inverness don’t miss beautiful Loch Ness. Take a drive around the loch and stop off along the way to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Castle Urquhart , once Scotland’s largest castle stands on the banks of Loch Ness and is a must for any visitor. 

Alternatively, why not take a cruise along the Loch?

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the most famous alleged resident of Loch Ness – Nessie!

Read more | Loch Ness cruise

Located in southern Scotland Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park offer visitors a combination of stunning scenery and picturesque villages.

Loch Lomond is the largest inland stretch of water in Britain and inspired Sir Walter Scott’s famous work “The Lady of the Lake” Take an unforgettable boat trip across the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the area often called the mini Highlands.

The Trossachs is the area east of Loch Lomond and west of Stirling and is the perfect destination for lovers of nature and outdoor activities.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs are within easy reach of Edinburgh and Glasgow for a day trip by car, train, bus or even seaplane or alternatively choose from a selection of small group day tours from Rabbie’s Tours or Get Your Guide.

Read more | Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most famous castles. Associated with Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce the castle has played an important role in Scottish history and independence.

A great day out for kids too with lots of activities available to keep them busy (and learning) including dressing in period costumes and playing medieval instruments!

Head to the Unicorn Cafe for refreshments and a stunning view from the rooftop terrace.

Read more | 18 Scottish Castles to visit

While Edinburgh may be the Scottish city on everyone’s itinerary Glasgow (only 50 minutes away by train or an hour by car) is also worthy of consideration.

If you have an interest in architecture and culture you will find Glasgow has much to offer. The Scottish Opera, National Theatre of Scotland and Scottish Ballet are located in the city.

Architecture designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in the art nouveau style can be found across the city. Art Galleries and museums to investigate include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Riverside Museum.

If street art is more your thing try this street art walking tour of Glasgow instead! You will find as you read this list that Glasgow is not the last of the cities to visit in Scotland either!

Read more | Glasgow Travel Guide | Glasgow Itinerary | Where to stay in Glasgow | Best day trip from Glasgow

12. Scotland’s islands

I have already mentioned the Orkney Islands and the Isle of Skye (which is part of the Inner Hebrides) but there are lots of beautiful islands (more than 790) in Scotland to visit.

The islands mainly consist of 4 groups – the Shetland Islands, the Orkney Islands and the Hebrides which is split into the Inner and Outer Hebrides.

The most popular islands for visitors are

• Skye (Inner Hebrides)
• Lewis and Harris (Outer Hebrides)
• Stronsay (Orkney)
• Islay (Inner Hebrides)
• Iona (Inner Hebrides)
• Mull (Inner Hebrides)

Read more | A guide to island hopping in Scotland

There are many famous road trips to take in the world and Scotland is no different. If you want to tour the north Highlands the route to take is the NC500 or North Coast 500 which starts and ends at Inverness Castle.

The 516-mile route has been named one of the top coastal routes in the world though has prompted criticism from some due to the environmental impact.

Listen to our podcasts about Far North Scotland | Episode 10 | Episodes 35 , 36 and 42 with North Coast Explorer Tours

The home of golf, St Andrews is the favourite destination for golfers from around the world. With lots of golf courses to choose from including the famous Old Course at St Andrew’s golfers really are spoilt for choice.

With beautiful architecture and a setting along the coast of Fife there is more to St Andrews than just golf!

Take a food tour, visit the St Andrews Museum or Castle or Cathedral. Go ghost hunting! Whatever you choose there is plenty to do and see at St Andrews even for those for whom golf is not a passion.

Read more | St Andrews Travel Guide

Situated in northeast Scotland the Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s largest.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling and water sports in stunning surroundings. Nature lovers can spot deer, squirrels and abundant birdlife.

Don’t miss the Highland Games held throughout the summer months.

Read more | Things to do in the Cairngorms

The Granite City as Aberdeen is also known (due to the abundance of granite that is quarried locally) is located in the north east of Scotland and is the third most populated city.

With more castles per acre than even Northumberland in England Aberdeenshire is a must for castle lovers.

Follow Scotland’s castle trail to discover 19 of the most impressive including Crathes Castle, Castle Fraser, Fyvie Castle and Braemar Castle.

Read more | A food and walking tour of Aberdeen

Balmoral is one of the favourite residences of the Queen and has belonged to the Royal Family since 1852 when it was purchased by Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert.

The gardens are open to the public between April and the end of July. In August the Queen arrives for her annual holidays (this is a good time to visit Buckingham Palace if you are in London ) and the gardens are then shut to the public.

Read more | Visit Balmoral on a day trip from Aberdeen

Pitlochry is located in the heart of Scotland and is a popular holiday destination all year round.

Attend a Highland Night and enjoy an evening with traditional Scottish entertainment including dancing and a pipe band.

The evenings run from the end of May until the beginning of September every Monday.

Read more | Things to do in Pitlochry

If you have seen James Bond in Skyfall you will have seen the part of the movie when he drives to his childhood home in the Scottish Highlands.

That drive was filmed at Glen Etive near Glencoe and was one of the highlights of our recent trip (January 2020)

If you are planning a road trip through Scotland taking this drive is an easy add on (if you are heading up to Fort William/ Glenfinnan/Isle of Skye)

In fact we did the trip as part of a short 4-day visit to Scotland in winter. You can read our itinerary (coming soon) which also included a trip on the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Fort William.

Read more | Visiting Glencoe in the West Highlands

• WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit Scotland

• WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in Scotland
• WHAT TOURS TO BOOK : Click here for recommended tours of Scotland
• WHAT TO EAT/DRINK – Haggis, Potato cakes, Deep fried Mars bar, Neeps and tatties, Oat cakes, Porridge with salt, Irn Bru, Whisky.

• PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness
• WHAT TO PACK – The weather can be unpredictable along the coast even in summer so always carry a waterproof jacket (and I recommend an umbrella) See my packing list
• The currency in Scotland is £ (Pound Stirling) but there are Scottish versions of the notes. Although these are legal tender in the rest of the UK you rarely see them south of the border.

Planning your Scottish itinerary

Faq’s planning your visit to scotland.

Scotland is beautiful all year round. Temperatures really drop in winter and snow is not uncommon. Avoid Edinburgh in August unless you are visiting specifically for the festival.

Read more – Month by month guide to visiting the UK

This of course will depend at what time of year you decide to visit. I would always recommend a good pair of walking shoes or boots, a raincoat and if visiting in summer bug spray!

Read more – Seasonal packing lists for Scotland

Scotland is not a cheap country to visit but you will find accommodation options to suit all budgets. I recommend booking ahead especially during peak tourist seasons.

Edinburgh is expensive as it is a popular destination year-round (avoid August and New Year’s Eve if you are on a budget)

Read more – 15 top travel tips for visiting Scotland

I am sure you will have loads of ideas for your travels around Scotland after reading this post.

Once you have narrowed down the areas you want to visit and chosen the best things to do in Scotland to suit your interests and needs the next thing to do is start planning that itinerary!

Don’t miss my accommodation guide for Scotland which includes some fabulous places to stay – including in a Scottish castle !

If you are planning a trip to other countries in the UK why not join my free UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat to other travellers in various stages of the planning process too! It is a great place to ask questions and hear about others experiences.

If you have specific questions about a destination in the UK why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat with others planning their trip.

Join my UK and London travel planning group on Facebook for more tips, inspiration and help from other travelers planning future travel to London and the UK.

Recommended Reading

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

At first glance, the Scottish landscape is harsh: foreboding fortresses atop hills and cliffs, the desolate moors… But spend some time here and you’ll quickly realize Scotland has its own unique beauty: breathtaking highlands, craggy coastlines, and blue lakes and rivers just made for fishing.

Among the otherworldly peaks, the deep valleys, and the sprawling lochs are ancient castles, Neolithic ruins, and the footprints of Vikings. Between them all are adventures that come in droves, some on foot and some with your foot on the gas pedal.

Map of Scotland

Among the best places to visit in Scotland are major cities such Edinburgh and Glasgow which still evoke that Scottish charm. They tell tales of the years gone, of struggle and the joys that come as the underdog. Ferries take you to surrounding islands where rugged coastlines look like works of art. So too do the charming towns filled with welcoming smiles and cozy pubs.

17. Isle of Arran

Catch a short ferry from Ardrossan, near Glasgow, to discover one of Scotland’s best islands . The Isle of Arran encompasses much of what makes Scotland such a magical destination. You’ll find eye-catching coastlines, lush open fields, craggy peaks, and towns that immediately feel like home.

The best way to see the island’s coast is to walk along the Coastal Way. It’s an epic multi-day trek, but travelers can also enjoy a bite-sized piece. On the journey, you’ll wander through fishing villages, over cliffs, and down to caves. Then there are several ancient sites and wide open beaches.

Without having to raise a sweat, driving around the island is relatively pain-free. You’ll get from end to end fairly quickly, leaving ample time to experience the best spots. These include the Brodick and Lochranza castles. The former is in the town of Brodick, a charming enclave with pubs and cafes that serve up the beloved treat called tablet.

16. Ben Nevis

Every 12 months, over 100,000 hikers make their way to Ben Nevis. As they approach the trailhead, they take their last steps before beginning their climb to the top of the UK’s tallest mountain.

In the summer months, the climb up Ben Nevis is achievable for many travelers. But once that snow falls it can turn into a treacherous, high alpine climb that requires mountaineering experience.

Alas, there’s more to this area than just climbing to the peak. Alongside Ben Nevis are Càrn Mòr Dearg and Aonach Beag, which complete the Three Peaks. Those not interested in a climb can instead settle for the amazing, rocky, and wild path that takes you through Steall Gorge on your way to the 120m Steall Ban waterfall.

15. Shetland Islands

Straddling the North Atlantic and the North Sea, the Shetland Islands are a wild archipelago embellished with dramatic scenery. There are around 100 islands all up, with the vast majority uninhabited. That leaves a classic rugged Scottish landscape to explore.

As you’d expect, not every isle is the same. Some have marvelous white sand beaches, such as Yell, Unst, and the South Mainland. Others feel tremendously wild, with soaring cliffs that suggest no man or woman is welcome here.

The Vikings didn’t seem to mind, however. The Shetland Islands have some spectacular archaeological sites that take you back to the Middle Ages and even the Neolithic era. Lerwick, the Shetland’s major town, harbors much of this past while being the kind of maritime town that quickly steals your heart.

14. Aberdeen

The granite nature of Aberdeen becomes immediately obvious as you wander down her old streets. Often grey and gothic, these grandiose public buildings are a poignant reminder of Aberdeen’s past as the granite capital of the world. Some of the best examples are Music Hall and Marischal College. The latter being a striking gothic revival construction with towering spires.

Along these very streets, you’ll take in the aromas floating out of some of Scotland’s best eateries. For genuine Scottish cuisine, it’s hard to pass up Aberdeen. Its mix of rich farmlands and coastline provides a mouthwatering mix of Angus beef and seafood.

Now well-fed, take in the lively museum scene that includes the Maritime Museum and the Aberdeen Art Gallery. But don’t depart before checking out the Balmoral Castle, the old hangout for the British Royal Family.

13. Outer Hebrides

If it wasn’t for the icy wintry winds that whip through the Outer Hebrides, we’d forgive you for thinking you were far away from Scotland. Eye-catching emerald waters lap the ivory beaches here, much like they do in the Caribbean.

Off the northwest coast of Scotland, the Outer Hebrides are roughly a dozen islands all close together. Inhabited in Mesolithic times, there are some remarkable archaeological sites here, including the Calanais Standing Stones. These are similar to the younger, more famous Stonehenge.

Medieval churches and clan roadhouses are remnants of a former era. But the Outer Hebrides is a place that holds tight to its Gaelic roots. The language rings through the local tunes, craftwork, and jewelry.

Getting here is an adventure, with several ferries, or a prop plane needed. But the journey is worth it to discover an unexpected beauty and ample Gaelic culture.

12. Cairngorms National Park

Scotland’s largest national park, Cairngorms National Park, encompasses all that is great about the Highlands. Yes, as a national park, you can expect pristine, untouched wilderness. It ticks that box. But it wouldn’t be the Highlands without a touch of history and the former footprints of ancient clans.

Lochs and rivers combine to be the lifeblood of the park, enriching the dense, old-growth forest that surrounds them. Some of Scotland’s biggest mountains, including Ben Bacdui and Braeriach rise up out of the valley. With miles of trails throughout, it’s an easy, yet adventurous, park to explore.

But you won’t always have to walk. In fact, one of the best experiences here is the 145km road that snakes through landscapes shaped by glaciers, across valleys, and over peaks. It’s the highest public road in Scotland.

11. Fort William

Deep in the Scottish Highlands, Fort William provides the sort of access to this region that few towns could only dream of. The location allows Fort William to be a fantastic base for outdoor adventures. Something that should pique the interest of active travelers.

Embellished with lush windswept fields and sporadic ridgelines, Fort Williams is always fun to come home to. Cute cafes dot the cobbled streets that are encased by old townhouses. Between them lie the warmth of the town pub, historic hotels, and restaurants. Its location on Loch Linnhe also lends a hand to some later afternoon boat rides.

After waking up refreshed, you’ll have a full slate of adventures ahead of you. The big one, of course, is Ben Nevis. As the tallest peak in the United Kingdom, it forms the central part of the Three Peaks. It’s a challenge that brings folks from all over and is a peak travelers with decent fitness can attain.

10. St Andrews

The motherland of golf, St Andrews, has a history in sport, culture, and education. Set in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews stands along the edge of the North Sea. Its coastline rises out of the bristling waters, providing some of the country’s best coastline.

Golf fan or not, it’s easy to appreciate the sport’s legendary connection to St Andrews. Play here dates back to the 16th century and there remain seven courses in town. The most famous is the Old Course, known to be the first of its kind in the world.

Non-golf fans can still explore the historic course. It’s all the more reason to see the Swilcan Bridge, which is an incredible 700 years old. You’ll find even more amazing history throughout St Andrews, from its celebrated university to the cathedral. The latter lying in ruins with what’s left approaching its 900th birthday.

9. Inverness

As the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is the perfect base from which to explore. But while you’ll spend plenty of time outside of the city, there’s ample reason to spend a few days close by.

It wouldn’t be a Scottish city without a bit of history and you’ll find plenty here. You could easily spend a day wandering the Old Town. Many buildings date back to the 1700s. The Old High Church, Inverness Cathedral, and the lively Victorian Market will capture your imagination. To dive further into the past, visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

The nearby Eden Court is laden with great galleries and theater venues. You won’t have a shortage of distilleries either, including Speyside, home to Glenfiddich. Afterwards, balance the whiskey with some local cuisine. Inverness is a great place to experience the classic Scottish fry-up.

8. Orkney Islands

Epic Scottish coastlines, 5000-year-old historic sites, and old-time whiskeys can be found on the Orkney Islands. Just off the tip of Scotland, this collection of 70 isles quickly captures your attention. Most are uninhabited, worn away by the restless wind. Those that evoke a mystical charm and a connection to the Stone Age.

The journey here isn’t quick. But it’s instantly rewarded by a smattering of islands that are quiet and mostly untouched by the tourist path. On the main island, you’ll find dozens of paths that lead to ancient Neolithic sites that have come under the umbrella of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most prominent is the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle from around 2,500 BC.

Away from those sites, you have a stunning coastline to explore. Thankfully, a 16km path carries you along the western coast, teetering on the edge as you go. Travelers can also complete the world’s shortest flight by flying 2 minutes from Westray to Papa Westray.

7. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

The largest of the Scottish lochs , Loch Lomond is a stunning blue lake surrounded by dense forests. This greenery is only interrupted by equally charming towns, such as Balloch, Drymen, and Arrochar.

After taking a morning break at either of the three towns, continue to the water’s edge, where another world begins. Loch Lomond is a part of the Trossachs National Park that boasts some of Scotland’s best, untouched scenery. Such is the size of the park most Scottish folks live within an hour’s drive.

The breathtaking scenery combines with great access to provide a must-do experience for travelers. Start off with a swim in the famous loch, or stay a bit drier on a kayak or scenic cruise. Afterward, hike along a section of the West Highland Way or wander through the oaky paths of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

6. Stirling

It may be small, but Stirling has a history that punches above its weight. Once the home of Renaissance kings and queens, Stirling has maintained that illustrious status. It’s done so through the preservation of its charming streets and eye-catching architecture.

In central Scotland, Stirling is littered with prominent landmarks. Here, the Stirling Castle from the 1100s stands ever proudly atop the craggy hill looking down on its loyal community. Once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, the tales of Scottish rebellion ring throughout its hallowed halls.

Add on some time spent at the Chapel Royal, The Royal Palace, and the Great Hall to decipher centuries of clan and British conflict. Then complete the journey with a visit to the National Wallace Monument, which stands on the victorious grounds of the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

As you venture further out, you’ll cross paths with charming old villages before eventually reaching the beautiful Trossachs National Park.

Befitting its name, which translates to “dear green place”, Glasgow boasts dozens of public parks and gardens. They are spread throughout the city, connecting you with the other highlights, such as Glasgow’s epic music scene and a love for museums.

Some of the best parks provide lively views of Glasgow, or maybe even a close-up glance of highland cattle. As it is Pollok Country Park. In between is a city with plenty of character. It mixes poignant history, with a touch of working-class ethic and subculture.

A UNESCO City of Music, travelers will never be short of a live event to enjoy. This love for creativity and expression has fed into the city’s breadth of galleries and museums. Highlights include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the Riverside Museum.

You can also add an equally vibrant dining scene into the mix. Modern creations mix in with old Scottish cuisine to provide a cuisine that matches Glasgow’s personality.

4. Glencoe Valley

The dramatic scenery of Glencoe showcases some of the best landscapes that the Highlands has to offer. History, tales of triumph and defeat lie in every blade of grass that dances with the cold Scottish wind. The resounding beauty that seeps into your core is a stark contrast to the 17th-century massacres that occurred right here.

The spectacular Highlands scenery poses a powerful presence. There’s such a deep green to every rolling hill that soars into the low-hanging clouds. Rods course through them like a hot knife, leading you to feel small among the buttressed peaks.

Depart your vehicle and embark on the Lost Valley walk, a 4-kilometer out-and-back trek that puts you in the footsteps of ancient clans people from the era’s past. For something equally scenic but more relaxing, head to Glencoe Lochan, a sprawling lake at the base of the towering Pap of Glencoe Peak. Finish off by the fire at Clachaig Inn and watch the clouds slowly swallow the valley.

3. Isle of Skye

Like Glencoe Valley, the Isle of Skye is a conglomerate of some of Scotland’s most captivating landscapes. Rugged, moss-covered peaks rise out of ancient valleys fed by icy, tumbling waterfalls. In the early hours mists rise, revealing a new day, while at night the stars sparkle with aplomb.

You don’t have to go search for any of this when on the Isle of Skye. It’s all around you as you make your way between traditional fishing villages. Where you’ll cross paths with Highland cows and search for archaeological sites.

The Isle of Skye is the second-largest Scottish island. Its rich history runs deep from clan warfare and historic rebellions that changed the course of national history. Castles lie in wait, small towns dot the coastline like breadcrumbs and the windswept beaches are great for families.

Top of off by bagging an epic viewpoint of the Old Man of Storr, one of the world’s more unique rock formations.

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh , reflects the changing seasons. In the spring, the rise of daffodils coat the parks and fields in a blaze of yellow. Summer soaks the city in blue skies and the old sandstone buildings glimmer in the low-hanging sun. Come the winter, fog wafts above the Royal Mile and candle-like light of cozy pubs provides residents with a welcome escape.

Edinburgh is a magical place to visit. One that has kept its remarkable aura amid these changing times. The cobbled inner-city streets disperse into narrow laneways called winds. Follow these to take a trip back to the 1700s and beyond to the Middle Ages.

Highlights of the capital include the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Grassmarket sqaure, and masterful Edinburgh Castle. From the castle you’ll bask in some of Edinburgh’s best views.

If you’re traveling in summer, you can expect a full slate of events and festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

See also: Where to Stay in Edinburgh

1. Loch Ness

Scotland is the land of lochs, and none is more famous than Loch Ness. It’s here that the legend of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, was born. Could it be you who finally spots the beast after so many years?

Behind Loch Lomond, Loch Ness is the largest inland body of water in Scotland. The water runs for miles while being completely enveloped by lush, green rolling hills. As majestic as the loch is, it’s the gems along the banks that flesh out the experience.

Spanning from Fort Augustus to Inverness, a drive along the western shores is impeccably scenic. About halfway along, you’ll arrive at Urquhart Castle, one of the most memorable in Scotland. With the Loch Ness as a stunning backdrop, you can wander this 13th-century castle, and discover rooms and the towers from which you have the best spot to see Nessie.

If you want to get really close, Loch Ness has several points from which you can take a (very) refreshing dip.

Scotland Travel Video

Share this post:.

10 Most Scenic Lakes in Scotland

15 Most Charming Small Towns In Scotland

10 Most Beautiful National Parks and Reserves in Scotland

8 Most Beautiful Regions of Scotland

12 Most Beautiful Scottish Islands

27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Scotland

23 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

15 Best Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland

17 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Reader interactions.

December 23, 2020 at 2:38 pm

I spent the academic year 1996-1997 in Aberdeen at the university. It was love at first sight. Besutiful scenery, wonderful seafront, grey buildings glittering after rain, charming old town… Sometimes at nights I return and re-live some of the magic.

January 9, 2020 at 10:45 pm

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

July 13, 2019 at 7:24 pm

I had the pleasure of visiting Scotland from England in 1956 when I was just 15 years old with my parents and we stayed in Dalkeith but visited Edinburgh and furthest north we went was a Brechin ; It was in the summertime and was one of the hottest summers at the time I can remember. I now live in Australia and would love to revisit this beautiful country.

July 13, 2019 at 3:42 am

Ice lived in scotland all my life. Inverness is NOT the gateway to the Highlands, it’s actually Perth, which is about 100 miles south of Inverness. Scotlands highest mountains are all between Perth and Inverness, not after Inverness.

January 9, 2019 at 2:30 pm

I like Glencoe. Was lucky enough to spend a week in a caravan at Black Corries car park. This leads to the Lairig Gartain and stunning views of Glen Etive. There is also the Aonach Egich ridge walk. Kinlochleven shelters behind. Visitors can feel the history of the McDonald’s and the Campbell’s. The most famous film depicting their epics struggle, being Braveheart.

March 6, 2017 at 10:02 am

Hello, I live in Scotland since 12 years, and I think you may add Pitlochry, Dundee, Gairloch and some beaches in North of the country like Oldshomore one.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

8 Places You Must-Visit in 2024

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

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, Caithness

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Tobermory on the Isle of Mull

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

Tiree Wave Classic Windsurfing Competition, The Isle Of Tiree

Argyll & The Isles

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Argyll & The Isles

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Got time for two destinations?

Aberdeenshire

Location: North coast of eastern Scotland.

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

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

Visit Aberdeenshire

The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry

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

River Garry

Location: Southern areas of the Highlands.

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

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

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

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

Visit Perthshire

Professional mountain biker Ruaridh Cunningham at 7stanes, Innerleithen

Scottish Borders

Location: South east of central Scotland.

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

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

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

Explore the Scottish Borders

Skiing on Cairngorm Mountain

© VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

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

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

The Highlands

Location: Mountainous area in the north west.

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

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

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

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

Explore more in the Scottish Highlands

Stargazing in the Mull of Galloway

Dumfries & Galloway

Location: South west of central Scotland.

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

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

Visit Dumfries & Galloway

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

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

Leven Links Golf Course in the Kingdom of Fife.

© Fife Council / Airborne Lens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan your trip to the Kingdom of Fife

Duncansby Stacks, Wick

© markmcgeephotos

Caithness & Sutherland

Location: Furthest north area of mainland Scotland.

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

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

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

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

Learn more about travelling to Caithness & Sutherland

Find experiences

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this product search form. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Other things you might like

Holiday Ideas for Scotland

20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

Off The Beaten Track In Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland

Places to Go

Everything You Need to Know if You're Travelling to Scotland

Join our newsletter clan.

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

• EN - English
• PT - Portuguese
• ES - Spanish
• How it works
• Become a Host
• Download the app

Top Destinations

• United States
• United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

• Non-Profit School
• Permaculture project
• Eco Village
• Holistic Center
• Guest House
• How Worldpackers works

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact

Plan your trip

• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts

10 best places to visit in Scotland + essential tips from a local

This is my top 10 best places to visit in Scotland. From a hike up the Bonnie hills till a glance at the Braw views, I share with you the finest of my home country.

Lauren Worldpackers Community

Sep 27, 2023

Scotland is a well-loved country by many, and it's easy to see why. If you've never been, it's well worth a visit, not just to see its  tourist attractions , but also hidden places or habits that only a local can share.

In no particular order (I'm Scottish so I can't be biased towards one) I'll list below the 10 best places to visit in Scotland . Check up my tips to plan your trip - hopefully you can get to see all of them.

But before starting reading, see this ultimate United Kingdom travel guide if you've never been in UK.

What are the best places to visit in Scotland 

Once you find the perfect acomodation in beautiful Scotland, make sure to do at least some of these 10 things.

1. The hills! (mainly the Munros)

Scotland's obviously famous for it's natural beauty, and you can't deny it. It'll make you want to run through the hills screaming 'FREEDOM!' but once you get to the top you'll be so in awe that you'll have no words. 

Whether a dreich or sunny day, the highlands will have you mesmerised. 

I really recommend doing at least one Munro, and if that's too much then you can do some smaller hills like Beinn Lora, which is one of the gratest  things to do in scotland . 

A munro is classed as a mountain over 3,000 feet so they can be pretty tough if you're not a hiker, but they're 100% worth it!

An ideal day in the highlands would be a hike with a picnic, a swim in a loch then off to a local pub for a hearty meal and some live folk music - heaven! 

You may also like to read  20 things to do in UK that will take your breath away .

2. Edinburgh's skyline

Edinburgh - the famous capital of Scotland, and definetely a must see. Everyone goes for the castle and the culture, understandable of course, but I feel the skyline doesn't get as much recognition as it deserves. 

You get a great view of the city, whether day or night (I prefer night - the lights are great!) and it's a lovely place to relax. Also, if you're lucky, you may even get a drunk Scotsman who will be belting out tunes all night long. Magical.

3. Dundee's food & culture

Dundee is known for it's vibrant nautical scene, it's nightlife and it's fun but who knew it had so much to offer our bellies? I embarrassingly visited for the first time this year, and was NOT disappointed!

The city is fairly small and easy to find your way about, and has some great sites to see like the V&A Museum and Discovery boat. However, I'd never heard people rave about the food before, so now here I am to tell the tale. 

I can wholeheartedly say there was not one place I went to where I didn't go 'oh wow, we need to come back here' and that doesn't happen often for me.

Let me tell you when I say there's SO much choice, I really mean it. To narrow it down a bit, here's some of my favourites:

• Tahini - a set-menu of Lebanese delights, amazingly priced and the food is just WOW! Not to mention the super friendly staff
• The Flame Tree Café - so tasty, the best brunch spot for sure!
• Daily Grind - café on one side, barbers on the other, hands down the coolest café in Dundee with the best coffee and cakes!
• Serendipities -one for my vegans out there, fantastic food, and they're big on environmental care too, a win-win!
• Clarks 24 hour bakery - whether it's 6am before work or you're stumbling back to your hotel from the pub at 2am,- this place has got you covered. I highly recommend the macaroni pie and arancini - yum. 

From Lebanese flavours, to iced coffees and fudgy brownies, Dundee really does know how to feed it's people. 

4. Glasgow's city life

There's a famous saying that 'people make Glasgow' and it's so true. You'll even see it plastered on the walls of high rise buildings in the city. The Glaswegians are proud of it, and so they should be.

Glasgow is often underrated as Edinburgh takes the spotlight, but the two can't be compared. Edinburgh is wonderful and has many sites to see, but with it's population being mostly tourists, everyone is too easy to understand. Go to Glasgow and it's a different story.

Glasgow is always bustling with culture, music and banter. The people are varied, and some more whacky than others, but they all make it the vibrant place it is.

Be enlightened by sites like the Kelvingrove art museum, the Riverside Transport museum or the Botanic Garden; and don't forget to grab some good scran (food) whilst you're at it.

Whatever you end up doing, you're guaranteed a good time. But most of all, don't miss the Duke of Wellington statue with the cone on it's head. Priceless.

5. Stirling's historical throwback

Stirling is like a mini Edinburgh , and it's definitely one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Now I don't like to compare, but they share the same old town feel to them with the cobbled stones and impressive castles. 

Right next to the city is Bridge of Allan, which is a quaint wee town filled with a delicious high street and a stunning reservoir that's great for swimming!

Though small, Stirling has much to offer with it's throwback in time. Take a walk around the castle (free for residents of the city by the way), a hike up the Wallace Monument, or a trip to the old jail and you'll find yourself feeling like you've gone back a good few years.

For a small city it has a fair amount to do. There's a great balance between nature and city, so as Hannah Montana would say, 'you get the best of both worlds!'. 

Another thing about Stirling is that it has more cafes than you can imagine. My favourites are Vera, HBW, the Book Nook (it's so cute!), Unorthodox Roasters and the Burgh Coffee House. Go treat yourself! 

6. Tobermory (Balamory)

A wee throwback for my Scots out there. Balamory was a kid's show in the early 2000s, filled with colourful houses and friendly characters. And great as it was, Balamory is a real place but just with a different name - Tobermory! 

Situated on the Isle of Mull, Tobermory holds the key to every Scottish 90's kid's heart, and that's why I put in my top 10 best places do visit in Scotland. 

You can take a wander around the bright painted houses, and get some great food as you do so.

Tobermory aside, Mull also has stunning beaches - so white and sandy you'd think it was the Caribbean! 

7. The magical fairy pools in Skye

Skye is a pretty magical place, crossing the bridge as you drive over to the island, it's like you're entering a kingdom of natural wonder. 

The fairy pools and well, Skye in general, aren't a secret by any means, but I had to include them. You feel like you're on the edge of the world with no worries in mind - a truly content feeling. 

Take a walk up the hills as you peer over the pools, or be brave and take a dip in the cold, cold waters! They're freezing, but you won't see water more clear than that. Absolutely stunning. 

8. The sunsets in Oban

One of my favourite things, which I'm sure I share with many, is sunsets. The colours, the vibrancy, the calmness. It's just stunning!

Oban is also full of things to do, like visiting McCaigs Folley, swimming at Ganavan beach, seeing what's on at the Rockfield centre and eating at some of the best wee pubs and restaurants! 

But the thing that captures my attention most is always the sky. No matter how many times I have seen the Oban sunset, I will never get tired of it. It truly is mesmerising, and what's better than getting lost in a beautiful view right? 

9. Take a dip in Loch Lubnaig

Scotland is famous for it's stunning waters like Loch Lomond and of course the home to the big beast Nessie, Loch Ness. However, I think Loch Lubnaig is one of the best lochs for a wee dip, and also is a lot safer.

Top tip! If you are going swimming in any of Scotland's lochs , be sure to have people with you and don't jump in somewhere you're unfamiliar with. They may look tempting to dive right in, but are often a lot deeper and colder than people realise, so be careful!

10. Scotland countryside and its wildlife

Sure, we might not have wild tigers or anything, but we do have majestic stags and adorable highland coos (cows). Their wee tufts of fur that cover their eyes will melt your heart, and a lot of them are ginger so they fit right in with the population!

Our wildlife tend to be quite shy like the deer for example, but the coos are quite happy to have a chat, or a moo with you. 

If you're in Scotland countryside like the Kings House Hotel in Glen Coe, you'll find deer just wandering around and you can feed them or pet them! They're pretty friendly, so make sure you are too.

Keep reading:

• A local's guide to London on a budget
• 9 reasons for living in London as a budget traveler

Amazing 17 staycations ideas for a holiday in the UK

How long it takes to visit the best places in scotland.

If you just visit some cities in Scotland  for a few days you'd have a nice idea of the country, but you would be missing some things and places that require planning to get to. 

So I'd recomend stay at least a month.

Many people don't know yet but it's possiblie to stay a long term in Scotland on a buget, starting at 2 weeks, up to an year. What makes this possible is doing a exchange work with Worldpackers .

In the video below you can see how it works, and read about an experience volunteering in a hostel in Scotland with Worldpackers.

And iff you would like to undergo all these 10 best places to visit in Scotland , you may want a help in how to plan a long term trip . 

This country, though small, is full of life and wonder. It has it's highs (very high highs) and it's lows, but it'll always leave you with a smile on your face and lungs filled with fresh air. As my dad always says, 'Scotland, what's not to love?' and I couldn't agree more. 

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Lauren Mclachlan

Worldpackers Community

Hey I’m Lauren! I’m from a small town in sunny (I wish) Scotland and took on my first solo travelling trip after graduating in 2019 My experience was way better than I could’ve imagined – meeting wonderful people, seeing amazing things, great experiences and even teaching weekly yoga! I couldn’t have done all this without Worldpackers, I’m so grateful I came across the website. I think everyone should get to experience travelling at some point in their lives – wherever and whatever it may be! My advice if you’re thinking about it is – don’t think too much! Just do, you won’t regret it. Also, if you want 10% off your Worldpackers memberships you can use the code LAUREN10

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Sep 15, 2021

Wow! I realy liked this place, thanks.

More about this topic

20 things to do in UK that will take your breath away

A local's guide to London on a budget

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

What to See in Scotland – 14 places with the ‘wow’ factor

What to see in Scotland features 14 special locations to consider for your Scottish itinerary. Some, like Stirling Castle or Loch Lomond, are easy to plan round; others, such as Skara Brae on Orkney or the Isle of Eriskay, take a bit more itinerary juggling but are worth the effort.

The more you can visit the closer you will get to the essence of Scotland.

The what to see list here is not in order of ‘must-see-ness’ though. (Maybe I should have listed them alphabetically to be fairer. But then again, maybe I worry too much…)

What to see in Scotland – not just the heavily promoted venues

Remember that if you add in some of these suggestions to your travel plans, then it’s almost inevitable that you’ll pass through natural route centres such as Inverness, Fort William or Oban, with plenty of other diverting things to enjoy.

Most (but not all) of the places mentioned here are quite small and specific and are only examples of the best of their type.

Also, when you are on your trip, this list assumes you’ll be distracted by obvious venues (eg Edinburgh Castle) or by heavily-promoted tourism big-hitters, for example, a selection of large privately-owned castles, close to the main tourism routes.

Treat the “things to see” list here as a bonus. Treat this page as a menu or checklist of what to see in Scotland. You’ll find more detailed information on other pages – follow the links, obviously – but right here you will get a starting point for your Scotland trip.

This is a sample of some of the best bits of Scotland – mostly scenic and historic.

What to See in Scotland: Stirling Castle

Why visit?  Important in Scotland’s story; also successfully restored Royal Palace with costumed guides gives a real insight into 16th-century royal court life. The Stirling Heads exhibition a must-see too.

Wow factor?  Hmm, probably: great Highland-edge views from the ramparts.

Picturesque?  Atmospheric is a better word. Sometimes busy though. Tip – go early.

Loch Lomond from Duncryne Hill

Why visit?  There are lots of views of this famous loch, another Scottish icon. But this is the best one. Duncryne Hill is just behind Gartocharn on the A811 on the south side of the loch.

Wow factor?  Definitely – unless the clouds are down and it’s raining! (in which case visit Stirling Castle, east, or go shopping at Loch Lomond Shores at Balloch).

Picturesque?  Atmospheric is a better word. Sometimes busy though – but it is a great Highland-edge view looking north into that other Scotland. Kinda romantic.

(Pictured here) Always worth the few minutes uphill walk, Duncryne Hill at Gartocharn is a great place to see where the  Highlands of Scotland  start. Here are some useful  Loch Lomond facts .

Why visit?  Mind-blowingly ancient – about 5000 years old – a Stone Age village time capsule.

Wow factor?  Well, you won’t see Stone Age settlements in this state of preservation very often on any what to see list. Good interpretation centre nearby. There’s lots more wow all over Orkney, not just at Skara Brae – see pic below of the Hoy cliffs from Esha Ness. Note also Scrabster to Stromness ferry in picture.

Picturesque?  Photogenic at least. Adjacent beach – Bay of Skaill – is pleasant.

(Pictured here) Hoy cliffs seen from Yesnaby. Note Old Man of Hoy at right hand edge of cliffs and looking small! Wait, I should explain if you’re new to Orkney, that the Old Man of Hoy is the name of a landmark rock stack seen from the  Stromness-Scrabster ferry .

The ferry journey is the most exciting short sea voyage in Scotland – a great intro to Orkney. For ‘exciting’ read ‘choppy’ sometimes. But it’s all pretty spectacular. And not always rough.

Orkney – Norse Heritage and more

Among the Scottish islands,  Orkney  is a place proud of its ancient past and sure about its future. We love it there. And the accents are just so melodic. It makes for a different visit: a different kind of Scotland. (Maybe not even Scotland at all – though they do make fine whisky there!)

By the way, you’ll need to book accommodation on Orkney in advance.

St Abbs and its seabirds

Why visit?  If time is limited and you are driving up on the main A1 from the south (aka ‘England’) and you want to see something of Scotland’s wildlife, then the seabird colonies here are easy to see – though you have to walk a little way. Nearby, the  village of St Abbs  is quite picturesque.

Wow factor?  Quite a lot of wow, especially on the seabird cliffs, and also the the fine setting of the village. More on  birds in Scotland  on that link.

Picturesque?  Photogenic and dramatic. May and June are very best times for seabirds here, but worth a look at any time. It’s only minutes off the main A1, so it’s an easy tick on your what to see list

What to see in Scotland: the Isle of Skye

Why visit?  Crowded in the main season but arguable features Scotland’s finest mountain scenery (though there are lots of other grand places on the mainland, some of which are mentioned here).

Wow factor?  Very high.

Picturesque?  View of the Cuillin Hills from Elgol, and also the view of the  Cuillins from Glen Brittle rated highly . (Picture on that link.) When it’s good weather, it’s breathtaking, but when the rain-clouds come down…Take a look at our page that answers the question  is Skye worth visiting ?

(Some Skye accommodation options here.)

Silver (or White!) Sands of Morar

Why visit?  Because when the weather is right, the sands and views of the islands really are lovely.

Wow factor?  Yes, you’ll go ‘wow’ a lot.

Picturesque?  If the dazzling sands weren’t photogenic enough, you also have a horizon full of islands. The  White Sands of Morar  are on the beautiful scenery page. Take a look.

What to see in Scotland: West Highlands

Why visit?  The mountain ambience of the Inverpolly area, north of Ullapool, is worth discovering. A real sense of remoteness, forgotten-ness, ‘gawd-what-must-it-be-like-in-the-winter-ness’ etc. Find out how not to  climb Stac Pollaidh  (or Polly) here.

Wow factor?  Oh Yes. Wow and thrice wow.

Picturesque?  I’ll say … especially with dramatic cloud and light effects.

The Vikings ruled the North from their Orkney power base. The most northerly part of  mainland Scotland was the south land – today’s Sutherland – to these Scandinavian settlers and warriors, who also left their mark on today’s place names. Follow this  northern tour  to discover more.

Glen Torridon

Why visit?  Some of the quirkiest mountains in Scotland are here and easily seen as you drive up the glen. Plus it’s not much more than an hour or so from  Inverness .

Wow factor?  A big wow.

Picturesque?  Crikey, yes. See another  Torridon and Applecross  page here.

Am I being too mountainous and Highland? (Lists are always idiosyncratic.) Well, what about another castle….

Craigievar Castle

Why visit?  Rural Aberdeenshire has a selection of castles and this one, along with, say, Crathes (great garden) is typical. Actually, maybe we should have featured Crathes…hmm. Here’s a wee picture of Craigievar though.

Craigievar castle turns up again on a page where I list some of my favourite castles. It’s a handsome building, much as the 17th-century masons left it.

However, it has got an unexpected and sinister connection to the  Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor  (of all things). Most guidebooks prefer not to cover this. Imagine – a castle in out-of-the-way Aberdeenshire had a link to the event that brought the USA into World War II!

Wow factor?  Yes, it’s wow all right if you like perfect wee castles. But I personally don’t think that the Disney logo was inspired by it. You hear that story a lot.

Picturesque?  Photogenic, oh yes.

Why visit?  Lovely setting. Hire a rowing boat or take a boat trip or enjoy local seafood. This wee village is easy to find from the road to Skye . You can also visit by train, as it’s on the Kyle line.

Wow factor?  A kind of gentle wow. A little one.

Picturesque?  Very.

Ballater and Glen Muick

Why visit?  This is for those of you afflicted with inexplicable curiosity to learn about the royals. Near Balmoral Castle (yawn), the handsome little town of Ballater is interesting because of its setting and all those ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs. 

Wow factor?  Not wow, more ‘this is a funny wee place but nice and I’m glad we came’ . And the rest of Deeside, west of Aberdeen , is pretty, as well as being the starting point for some high mountain excursions, if you are (steeply) inclined.

Picturesque?  The picturesque bit is when you tear yourself away from the waxed all-weather jacket shops and go up Glen Muick. Look out for red deer. And the glen is a good place to  see heather in Scotland .

Why visit?  Here we go again, back to spectacular scenery. The advantage here is that the mountains are high (for Scotland) and easily viewed from the road. Plus it has the added association with a real Highland event – the infamous Massacre of Glencoe. Excellent visitor centre on site.

Wow factor?  Yes, just look up…

Picturesque?  Gloomy, brooding, atmospheric….your imagination will run away with you.

Which town,  Oban or Fort William , makes the better base for exploring the West Highlands? Oban has a fine and breezy coastal setting but Fort William is nearer more rugged scenery. Plus, here is  where to go for Scotland’s must see scenery , mostly mountains.

(Do any islands make it on the list? Oh yes, not just Orkney….)

Isle of Eriskay

Why visit?  Easily reached by causeway, classic get-away-from-it-all tiny Hebridean gem.

Wow factor?  The little beaches are wow.

Picturesque?  In short, yes. More about it on the  Isle of Eriskay  page. Lovely pictures!

Isle of Mull via the Oban to Mull ferry

Why visit?  Mull is a great island – things to see and a good dining choice in Tobermory especially. Getting there from Oban on the  Mull ferry  is also a scenic experience.

Wow factor?  Intermittent wow. Lots of wows depending on the light and shade on the landscapes. (Gosh. Is that pretentious?)

Picturesque?  Well,  Tobermory , the island ‘capital’ is one of the most scenic little coastal communities in all of Scotland. Lots of wild and picturesque views elsewhere on the island.

Good range of accommodation on Mull .

OK – you’ve had a look at some of the best things to see in Scotland. Here’s a reminder of some of the  things you could do while in Scotland .

And here are some estimates of  how long you need to see Scotland.

(A lifetime should just about do it…)

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

19 Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

There are so many places to visit in Scotland , so it can be hard to choose where to go during a trip! Should you visit hot spots like Edinburgh or Glasgow? Maybe relax at Loch Ness? Or experience island life at the Isle of Lewis or the Isle of Harris? Well, this post of the most beautiful towns in Scotland has got you covered and even includes a few cities!

This guide is the answer to all of your questions. Read on to find all of the most beautiful towns in Scotland. Each place comes highly recommended by a travel blogger who has explored the area!

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

Edinburgh is truly one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland because it’s filled with so many great historical sights, and there are so many awesome accommodations. It was the first city that I explored in the country, and it’s truly one of the most memorable.

Here are the best things to do in Edinburgh!

Hike Arthur’s Seat

The hike up to Arthur’s Seat doesn’t take more than a few hours, and the view at the top is absolutely impeccable. It truly is one of the most picturesque parts of Edinburgh ! It does get a bit hard to hike at the top, but it’s completely worth it.

Eat all the food

Edinburgh is filled with amazing places to eat . There are cafes, restaurants, pubs, and more. I can’t recommend Oink enough, which is one of the best places I’ve eaten at while traveling. It’s located right on Victoria Street and serves up great pig roast sandwiches for only 5 pounds!

Visit the picturesque Victoria Street

Victoria Street is absolutely gorgeous. Just looking at it reminds me of something straight out of Harry Potter ! This street is lined with lots of cute little places to shop, including a store called The Boy Wizard, which is perfect for Harry Potter fans. Remember your camera; you’re going to want it.

Do some Harry Potter sightseeing

J.K. Rowling famously wrote a lot of the Harry Potter series while living in Edinburgh . So much of her inspiration can be found between these cobblestone streets.

For instance, there’s the Elephant House Cafe , Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street, and more. There are even lots of tours that will take visitors to all of the top sights throughout the city that J.K. Rowling frequented.

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the Queen’s royal residence in Edinburgh. It’s open for visitors, but keep in mind that there are times when it will be in use last minute, and you won’t be able to go inside. This happened to me when I visited, but it’s still just as worth it to see it from the outside!

FREE TRAVEL QUIZ

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most uniquely beautiful and breathtaking places in Scotland, a country full of awe and beauty. Skye is a perfect place to visit for those who appreciate rugged beauty, hikes (of varying difficulty), and incredible landscapes.

As its popularity grows with tourists, I would recommend visiting off-peak, so outside of the summer months, and ensure you’ve packed rain gear.

What to see on Skye?  Here are the highlights:

The Quiraing

A trip to Skye is incomplete without visiting this stunning landslip, which offers incredible views of the Island; it is one of the most picturesque points on the islands. And for hikers, a 4-mile hike along the elevated ridge (or you can cheat by doing a section and double back rather than taking the entire 4-mile loop).

Talisker Distillery

Talisker is a single malt whiskey produced on Skye and shipped worldwide to be enjoyed by a global community. Their distillery is open for tours and tastings, both of which I’d highly recommend, but you’ll need to book the visit in advance. You’ll learn about the unique pairing of sea and smoke that dominates their whiskey palate and much about the process of making it.

The largest village on Skye – with its beautifully quaint, charming quayside, beautiful harbor views, and charming overall vibe, it is an unmissable stop on any trip to Skye. It is the best place to get food on the island, and several good pubs for a pint or a dram; as well, there are small shops along the high street.

Fairy Pools

These beautiful interconnected pools, fed by streams and waterfalls, are accessible by foot only after a short hike from a parking lot. Stepping away from the road seems to transport visitors to a magical place.

The pools are remarkably clear and unusual blue in color, with the ability to see straight to the bottom, and possess an otherworldly quality.

Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

This charming seaside castle has a long history on Skye – you can take a tour of the castle, the gardens, or even a seal tour in the neighboring bay.

traveled by Jamie from Travel Addict

Read next: 11 Enthralling Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh

Isle of Muck

The Isle of Muck, the smaller of the Scottish Small Isles, is situated on the west coast of Scotland. It is only about 4 kilometres long and has about 45 households along with a large farm—no church, no post office, no fire station — not even a supermarket. There’s WiFi, electricity, a petite café with irregular hours, and a few diverse accommodation choices.

Yet what might be missing in everyday conveniences, the Isle of Muck repays in sheer physical charm. Beautiful white sandy beaches equal those of Fiji, with crystal blue seas, isolated bays, and exotic wildlife. Seals, otters, puffins, and even whales and dolphins can be spotted here.

No, we are not lying; this little slice of paradise is genuine and in Scotland, no less. Part of what has made the Isle of Muck so distinctive is its solitude, with just one narrow lane road, a ferry dock, and … well, not much of anything else.

Since most of Muck is in open farmland, you’re free to walk about, see animals and wildlife, make friends with the stunning white Highland Horses, and marvel at the natural landscapes everywhere you go.  Not to mention the breathtaking views across the water to the cliffs of the Isle of Rum.

Everybody knows everybody on this island- and intrepid adventurers that make it here are going to be stopped by locals for a chat. They are just so happy people who come to admire their little world.  And chat, you should, because they’re going to have a lot of inside scoops, advice, and tips for you.

They will know popular fishing spots, how to spot the sea lions and puffins, what’s what in terms of swimming, and, well, any other local knowledge of the day’s events they might impart to you. The inhabitants of Muck are all, to say the least, unique and add to the charm of this place.

Being such a small island, your  travel opportunities to the Isle Of Muck  are restricted to ferry services from the settlements of Arisaig and Mallaig. You can also get on one of the nature cruises from Arisaig in the peak summer season

traveled by Jordan from Inspired By Maps

Orkney Islands

The  Orkney Islands  are located 8 miles from the northeast corner of mainland Scotland. They are made up of Mainland, with the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness, and then several smaller islands reached by either causeway, ferry, or short flights.

Despite their remote location, the islands have a UNESCO World Heritage status for their Neolithic past and beautiful landscapes to explore.

St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall

The cathedral stands in the centre of the main town of the islands and is flanked by the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and the Earl’s Palace.  Inside there are interesting headstones and carvings, as well as the chance to climb the spire.

Skara Brae is one of the most intact Neolithic villages ever discovered and dates back over 5000 years. Found after a storm in the 1850s, the beach location of this archaeological site is stunning.  A small visitors centre takes you back in time to put findings into context.

Italian Chapel

On the island of Lamb Holm, south of Kirkwall, is a small chapel inside a Nissen hut.  Built by Italian prisoners of war during World War 2, it is filled with beautiful frescoes and ironwork.

Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay is located in the northwest of the mainland and is a tidal island with a lighthouse and puffin colony.  A circular walk takes you around the island as well as visiting the nearby ruins of the Earl’s Palace.

Ring of Brodgar

This is a large Neolithic stone circle with several large standing stones that are still in place.  Close by are many other standing stones, as well as a large burial mound and an ongoing archaeological dig.

traveled by Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is off the West Coast of Scotland and is about an hour away from Glasgow and is the largest of the islands in the Firth of Clyde. Arran can be reached by ferry from Ardrossan, where you can leave your vehicle and go over as a foot passenger or take your car with you so you can go for a drive around the island.

There are plenty of things to do on the island, especially if you love the outdoors. Arran has something for everyone, from solo travellers to families.

The island is excellent for cycling, and there are not that many roads either so you won’t get lost easily! You can hire bikes on the island, or you can take your own across with you. Even though the island is famous, the roads have never seemed too busy, and if you do encounter a vehicle, then drivers are usually excellent and leave you plenty of space.

There are plenty of hiking trails on the island! You could tackle the Arran Coastal Way, which I have personally done, and it is a great challenge. Goat Fell is the highest peak on the island, and most visitors to the island will try and get to the top. Goat Fell is next on my list with my eldest son, as he wants to take the “mountain” on!

Enjoy the main sights

Around the island, you can enjoy plenty of excellent views, especially for those who love history and castles. You can explore Brodick Castle, Lochranza Castle (a ruin), or even visit Kings Cave (where Robert the Bruce is said to have had his famed encounter with a spider).

If you do not mind a short walk, you can visit the Machrie Moor Standing Stones, which is not too far from Kings Cave, so you could do them on the same day.

Distilleries and breweries

There are 2 Whiskey Distilleries on the island (including the new distillery at Lagg) and the Arran Brewery, which makes craft beer. I have only visited the Lochranza distillery, and it was very informative to visit. I do not drink, so I did not try any of the Whiskey, but I do know it is trendy.

For being an island, there are plenty of golf courses for you to play on. I am no expert when it comes to golf, but enjoying a game of golf while enjoying the stunning views seems like an excellent reason for visiting the island.

If you did not want to do any of the above, then you could also enjoy a spa break and sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.  The isle of Arran should be on your to-do list if you are planning on coming to Scotland.

traveled by Sam from Travels With My Boys

North Coast 500

The far northwest of Scotland is wild, rugged, and remote — and it’s stunning!

It’s a part of Scotland that is off the tourist trail,  takes time to get to (but is so worth it) , and where a car is a must.

There is a driving route called the North Coast 500 that goes around this peninsula. Many folks race around it. But I recommend taking your time.

I didn’t make it very far around, as I stayed for five nights in the Gairloch area in a settlement known as Big Sand. It’s gorgeous, with views of the Torridon Hills to the south and the Isle of Lewis and Harris to the west. I’m going to concentrate on this part of the Northwest peninsula.

Any spot along the North Coast 500 is a place to slow down and enjoy the beauty of unspoiled Scotland.

Here are a few things I recommend for this particular part of the North Coast 500.

Walk or drive out Rua Reidh Lighthouse and do some walking

I drove to Melvaig and parked. From this parking area, the road is very narrow, but it’s drivable to the lighthouse. I chose to walk to take in the views of the sea at a slower pace.

Once you get to the lighthouse, which does have rooms, you can pick up the dirt trails along the coast. Since Scotland is a right of way, you can go anywhere. The views are stunning from here!

Visit Inverewe Garden

I did not make it to this National Trust site, which was an epic fail on my part. This garden is located in an area where the Highlands meet the Gulf Stream, so the flora is unique. There are trails to walk, historic buildings to explore, and much to learn about wildlife and plants.

Eat at The Barn Cafe

The Barn Cafe was a short walk across a field from where I was staying, Solas B&B in Big Sand. Believe it or not, this fabulous cafe is part of Sands Caravan and Camping. The food was delicious! I highly recommend eating a meal here.

Walk on Gruinard Beach

As you drive further north from Inverewe Gardens, you’ll come to a little overlook. At this overlook, you’ll spot Gruinard Beach. Drive a bit further and park in the lot for this lovely beach. Go for a walk on this beautiful stretch of sand. If the weather permits, maybe a picnic is in order. For those brave souls, go for a swim in the chilly water.

Drive further north, stopping when the spirit moves you

As you drive further north on the A832 and the A835, you’ll come to more places to stop and drink in the gorgeous scenery. I drove almost to the town of Elphin around the Knockan Crag Nature Reserve. I wish I had gone further, as this is the beginning of the Assynt region of the peninsula. I hear it’s spectacular. So don’t be afraid to take a drive and stop for views or walks.

Get out on a trail

There are lots of trails all over the Northwest, including some around Big Sand and Gairloch, where I stayed. Pack up your daypack and get out and explore. This part of Scotland is made for hiking!

traveled by Lynne from Wander Your Way

Glenfinnan is a small village in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, just 17 miles from Fort William. Known for its picturesque scenery, Glenfinnan is a popular highlight for many (especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan). Plus, it’s one of the best Edinburgh day trips by train !

Despite its small size (with an average population of 120), the majority of things to do in Glenfinnan are off the main road. This gives travelers a unique perspective on exploring the rustic and authentic beauty of this portion of the Scottish Highlands.

Here are 5 things you can do in Glenfinnan (all of them are free except for the ticket on the Jacobite Steam Train):

Explore its stunning landscapes

Glenfinnan is surrounded by towering mountains along the banks of Loch Shiel, so it’s an incredible place to hike or just explore for the day.

Viaduct Trail

This is a 1-2 hour walk passing through Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel and has an incredible view of the steam train chugging along the viaduct.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

This is the most commonly visited attraction in Glenfinnan since you can actually ride the Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express) to Fort William and Mallaig in the summer. Harry Potter fans flock to this iconic site!

Glenfinnan Monument

This is a historical monument from 1815 dedicated to Jacobite clansmen who died during the Jacobite rising.

Glenfinnan Station Museum

This is a working railway station that tells the history of the viaduct and life in the West Highlands.

Along with a few Harry Potter films, Glenfinnan has also been used as a filming location for popular TV shows such as “Outlander” and “The Crown.” Thus, whether you’re looking to satisfy your inner geek or just want to photograph some iconic landscapes on an easy trail, Glenfinnan is a must-do while you’re in Scotland.

traveled by Debbi from My Debstinations

South Queensferry

A peaceful town located to the west of Edinburgh, South Queensferry is easily accessible by a 20-minute train journey from the beautiful capital of Scotland. This quaint town makes a convenient  half-day trip from Edinburgh  for those seeking a haven from the hustles and bustles of tourist groups in the capital.

Upon visiting South Queensferry, don’t forget to:

See the renowned Forth Bridge

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge (aka Forth Rail Bridge) is a distinctive landmark voted as Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in 2016. There is a viewing point at Ferry Glen – a woodland situated between the Dalmeny railway station and High Street – where you can enjoy a great view of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth.

Take a stroll around the Hawes Pier

If the weather is good, nothing feels more relaxing in South Queensferry than taking a stroll around the Hawes Pier. This is also a great place to watch the sunset and breathe in the fresh air from the river. You can even board one of those day cruises to enjoy the scenery around this area fully.

Enjoy fresh seafood at various restaurants

South Queensferry prides itself on a number of seafood restaurants that serve delicious fresh seafood prepared in various styles. You can visit The Boat House or Samphire Seafood on High Street to try these delicacies while simultaneously enjoying a beautiful view of the river.

Visit the Queensferry Museum

If you are interested in knowing more about the history and traditions of Queensferry, don’t miss the chance to visit the Queensferry Museum on High Street. Entrance is free, and you will also be able to enjoy a stunning view of the Firth of Forth and the Forth Bridge from here.

Walk along High Street

High Street is where you can truly experience the unique vibes of South Queensferry. Walking along High Street, you will find a wide range of interesting places to drop by, including lovely coffee shops to sit and chill when it’s sunny, cool souvenir stores to purchase a piece of Queensferry and bring back home, as well as cozy old book shops whose owners are both friendly and knowledgeable.

With all these interesting things to do in South Queensferry, this pretty town is surely the place to be if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from bustling Edinburgh.

traveled by Fiona from Fiona Travels from Asia

A little gem in the beautiful but less-traveled part of Western Scotland, Oban, is a large seaside village with a few nice attractions, but more than this, it has charm and some of the pleasures of life – fresh seafood, good whisky, and an interesting seafront.

Oban and its surrounds  can be an ideal base for several enjoyable day trips to explore this part of Scotland. 

There are some interesting places to visit in Oban:

McCaig’s Tower

McCaig’s Tower is an unfinished tower prominently visible over the Oban skyline. It almost looks like the Roman Colosseum. You can get a beautiful panoramic view from the platform atop a  rather steep hill.

Oban Distillery

Oban Distillery has a great informative tour and is highly recommended. The 14-year-old single malt is popular due to its fortification with crystallized ginger!

Carnasserie Castle

Located in Kilmartin, this ancient castle cum residence would be interesting for architecture admirers.

Connel Bridge and the Falls of Lora

Connel Bridge and the Falls of Lora, about 5 miles from Oban, offer great views from the car park viewpoint. The unique falls, technically white water tidal rapid, are worth viewing.

Dunstaffnage Castle

Dunstaffnage Castle   is a half-ruined castle in Connel. This fortress is another must-see for history buffs.

Finally, if you have the time, you could visit the famous Inveraray castle and its lovely gardens, which is just an hour’s drive away from Oban. Apart from the above, Oban is the seafood capital of Scotland and boasts a plethora of terrific restaurants – many overlooking the bay. 

traveled by Jan from Leisurely Drives

Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis’ main settlement is the bright and vibrant town of Stornoway, it’s the largest island and the capital of the Western Isles, but it’s more than that; the Isle of Lewis offers many breathtaking opportunities, it is rich in history and beauty with unique experiences that cannot be seen elsewhere.

Callanish Standing Stones

Older than Stonehenge and with a real air of mystery. No one knows what they were for; some suggest tracking the lunar cycle, some say they are shaped like a cross, and some say they were giants turned to stone; we’ll never know for sure but what we do know is that they have become a world-famous symbol of the Isle of Lewis. 

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

The Gearrannan Blachouses is a collection of stone cottages from an old crofting village. You can take a step back in time by visiting one of the refurbished blackhouses to experience these cottages as they would have been and to see how the people lived and worked. 

You can even watch some traditional weaving of Harris Tweed.

Lews Castle/Museum Nan Eilean

Lews Castle is a large Victorian mansion that sits upon a hill overlooking the town of Stornoway. Not only has it been refurbished for visitors and creating beautiful hotel accommodations, but it is also home to Museum Nan Eilean, which holds some of the infamous Lewis Chessmen! 

Surrounding the castle are the castle grounds, and here you can find magical walks, cycle routes, fishing spots, and even the local golf course.

Butt of Lewis

The Butt of Lewis is the most northerly point of the Isle of Lewis and even made the Guinness Book of Records the UK’s windiest destination. Here you will find some incredible sights which surround the lighthouse, with incredible crushed and twisted rocks standing up to 80ft high and some which date back as far as 3 billion years old.

Mangersta Sea Stacks

The Mangersta Sea Stacks are a sight to see. There are many beautiful beaches on the Isle of Lewis, but none offer such a dramatic backdrop as the Mangersta Headland with its high sea cliffs and its seabird colonies.

You can even book a free stay in the Mangersta Bothy, which is on the edge of the sea cliff, and wake up to those incredible views.

traveled by Peter & Lauren from Oursocalledlife

Isle of Harris

The Isle of Harris is in the Outer Hebrides, north of mainland Scotland, and is only accessible by a domestic flight or ferry. But the effort it takes to get there is rewarded by fantastic scenery.

The top 5 things to do are:

Luskentyre Beach

With its wide white sands and aquamarine water, makes it worthy of the TripAdvisor award for 3 rd  best beach in Europe. Try to visit when the tide is out and the sun shining to see the beach at its best.

Scarista Beach

Scarista Beach is another pretty, crescent-shaped beach with the Harris hills in the background and Atlantic waves crashing onto the sands.

Visit the Gin Distillery

Since 2015, a local gin distillery in Tarbert has been producing Isle of Harris gin. A tour and tasting is the perfect wet weather activity.

Drive the Golden Route

The Golden Route is the one-lane road on the rocky south side of the island that has very different scenery from the sandy beaches on the northern side.

There are many hills to climb for fantastic views over the island and out into the Atlantic. The two best hikes are Ceapabhal Hill and the full-day circular walk over Beinn Dhubh.

It is possible to visit at any time of year, but the main tourist season is April to September, and some of the local cafes and restaurants might be closed outside of this period.

The Outer Hebrides is more remote than other areas of Scotland and sees fewer visitors. As a result, there are few hotels, restaurants, and shops outside the largest town, Stornoway. A self-catering  Isle of Harris cottage  is the best choice for accommodation.

traveled by Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite

Aviemore is one of the largest towns in the Cairngorms National Park. It has good rail connections to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness and many accommodations and dining options. All these make it an ideal base for  exploring the area even without having a car .

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve is a protected area less than 10 minutes away from the train station. It offers four hiking trails of easy to moderate difficulty doable in a few hours. My favourite route is the one going up to the viewpoint, which provides great views over the area.

Strathspey Railway

The Strathspey Railway is a traditional steam train that offers a relaxing way to see the beauty of the area. It departs from Aviemore train station and stops at Boat of Garten and Broomhill. The services are not very frequent, so check the timetable in advance.

Rothiemurchus Estate

If you fancy some outdoor adrenaline activities, you should head to the Rothiemurchus Estate. They offer pony trekking, Segway tours, and more. If you become an Explorer, you will get a map of trails around the area. My favourite is the one to Loch an Eilein, a picturesque loch with a ruined castle.

Glenmore Forest Park

At the Glenmore Forest Park, apart from hiking routes, you will find the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, which organises hill trips to spot deer, learn more about them, and hand-feed them. Besides, across their visitor centre, you will find Loch Morlich, with a sandy beach and a water sports centre.

Cairngorm Mountain

Lastly, a short bus ride from the centre of Aviemore is Cairngorm Mountain. In the winter, it operates as a ski centre, while in the rest of the year is the starting point of hikes to the top of CairnGorm Mountain and Ben Macdui, the highest peak in the Cairngorms National Park.

traveled by Elina from Empnefsys & Travel

Exploring the Highlands is a must when visiting Scotland. Spend a weekend in Inverness, soaking in its beauty. From mysterious stones to stunning overlooks, Inverness is one of my favorite places in Scotland.

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns is a collection of standing stones and massive tombs, or cairns. This place is full of mystery and speculation as to why they are there. To some, it is just a burial ground; to others, a place to study the sun.  The parking lot is very small; I recommend you go early.

Culloden Battlefield 

The Battle of Culloden was a turning point in Scottish history. Just 11 euros to enter, stop by the memorial, and visit the ‘clan stones’. The battleground walk is very easy. There are paths all the way around to the left side of the battlefield. However, it does not make a complete loop.

I had the amazing opportunity to take a cruise down Loch Ness. You can go hunting for monsters on Loch Ness , one of the top things to do there. Tickets are available online or at the Loch Ness visitor center, 22 euros per person (adult). I highly recommend this; it is such a beautiful way to see the Loch.

Urquhart Castle

The castle would have been standing today. However, during the Jacobite uprisings, the government forces did not want the castle to fall into the rebels’ hands, so they destroyed it. There are many paths to explore in the ruins. General Admission: 9 euros.

Castle Leod

This has been the home to the Clan Mackenzie Chieftains for over 500 years! I was told when the owner is home, he is known to talk to the guests and even invite them into his home! On the castle grounds, there is an awesome tree walk you can explore. There were so many unique trees! We found a tree that dates to the 1500s!

traveled by Emily Dalton from Dalton’s Destinations

Glencoe, Scottish Highlands

On a visit to Scotland’s Highlands, Glencoe is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore the region’s natural beauty. From picturesque lochs to babbling brooks, rolling hills, and heather-hewn moors, Glencoe offers an ideal escape to experience the finest outdoors in Europe.

Three Sisters

Even a drive through the hills is worth the trip, especially to the Three Sisters car park, which looks over the mountains and waterfalls of the upper Glencoe Valley.

Scotland’s Right to Roam laws allow visitors to pull off at one of the many roadsides stops to explore around on foot – Glen Etive is one such not-to-miss natural wonder. Birdwatchers will rejoice in keeping an eye out for ptarmigans and red grouse flitting around the rocky landscape.

West Highland Way

The country’s famous long-distance trek, the West Highland Way, also traverses through this path and is perfect for those seeking some extra adventure. Stop at the Glencoe Visitor’s Center for a hiking map and updated trail information.

Water lovers have the opportunity to sea kayak, paddleboard, boat, and sail the massive Loch Leven. The loch sits just at the edge of Glencoe, and myriad nature trails run all along the water’s edge. Evening sunset strolls around Loch Leven make for some wonderful “golden light” photography.

Clachaig Inn

Top off any adventure-filled day with a hearty meal and some live Scottish music at the Clachaig Inn!

If going to Scotland in winter , take note that the days are quite short, yet the scenery is equally as stunning. Glencoe is the perfect jumping-off point for other awesome destinations in Scotland, including Ben Nevis, Castle Stalker, and Glenfinnan. Definitely don’t miss the opportunity to visit Glencoe and its beauty on your trip to Scotland!

traveled by Christa from Expedition Wildlife

Crieff is one of the most charming towns in Scotland, nestled in Perthshire, just about an hour from Edinburgh. Known for its distillery, old-fashioned high street, and gorgeous grounds of the Crieff Hydro resort, you’ll be able to find something to do here, no matter your interests.

Check out the top  things to do in Crieff  for visitors to dream up your Scottish bucket list! You won’t want to miss out on Cardiff; it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Crieff Hydro Hotel

From horseback riding to walks on the glen to a wonderful meal at the top restaurant, the Miekle, Crieff Hydro Hotel isn’t just a place for sleeping, but a destination for activities, gorgeous views of Crieff, and more. Get afternoon tea in the Winter Garden and watch the locals play bowls on the lawn. 

Get Shortbread on the High Street

Stop by JL Gill on the Crieff High Street for the best shortbread you’ll ever eat. You can’t go to Scotland without trying some of their world-famous buttery shortbread, and this shop has plenty of homemade shortbread on offer, as well as other delightful candies and treats. 

Take a Walk in Macrosty Park

With one of the best children’s play areas in Crieff, Macrosty Park is a family favorite. There are also peaceful walks along a stream and beyond. Bring a picnic and plan to spend a sunny day people-watching and enjoying the atmosphere in this park. Parking is free on-site, which makes it a no-hassle day out!

Glenturret Distillery

Ever wanted to see how Scotch whiskey is made? This is Scotland’s oldest working distillery (or so they claim), and regular tours will take you through the entire process as you see how their famous whiskey is made. Also, they have two distillery cats who help to keep the mice out and may just join you. 

Drummond Castle

While you can’t go inside, Drummond Castle is famous for its gorgeous landscaped gardens. Used as a filming location over the years, it is truly a magical place to escape into. You’ll find hidden mazes, stunning views, and colorful blooms as you explore. 

traveled by Kalyn from Girl Gone London

Isle of Whithorn

If you’re in the Dumfries and Galloway region, it’s worth a trek off the beaten path toward the rugged coast, where you’ll find the Isle of Whithorn. 

The Isle of Whithorn is located three miles south of Whithorn and thirteen miles south of Wigtown and is a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most southerly points of Scotland. While it’s technically a village, this is one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Steam Packet Inn

It’s likely you’ve travelled to this stunning village from quite a distance thanks to its remote location, so why not stop off at the Steam Packet Inn first for a bite to eat and a pint of Sottish ale. The outdoor seating overlooks the harbour meaning you can watch the lobster boats come in and out as you enjoy delicious homemade food.

St. Ninian’s Chapel

Head out towards Isle Head to discover the ruins of St. Ninian’s Chapel, located next to the rugged coastline. Free to enter and easily accessible, St. Ninian’s was a 13th-century chapel that would have been visited by pilgrims stopping off on their way to Whithorn Priory. Outside the chapel is ‘Witness Cairn’, a pile of painted stones for modern-day pilgrims to leave their mark. 

Isle of Whithorn Tower

Continuing up the path from St. Ninian’s Chapel is the Isle of Whithorn tower, a large square, the white tower that stands on the highest point of Isle Head, looking out over the wild and windy coast. On a clear day, you can look out from here towards the Lake District and Isle of Man, and the rest of the Kirkcudbrightshire coast.

Isle Castle 

One of the island’s oldest buildings and perhaps recognisable from the film The Wicker Man is Isle Castle, built in the 17th century. Looking for somebody’s home, a traditional castle, can be easy to miss, but this historical landmark is well worth a visit when on the Isle. 

traveled by Nicola from Travelling With Boys

Shetland, at the very top of the UK, is as far north in the country as you can get and have its own culture, community, and feel. The islands here are completely unique, lying just over 200 miles from Norway (who it once belonged to) there is an undeniable Norwegian lilt to the Scottish accent here.

On our trip to Shetland with kids we explored the islands and found a collection that was both welcoming and interesting, packed full of history and culture. This is somewhere that really gets under your skin, and we loved it. Shetland is one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Spend time in the capital of Lerwick, where a foodie revolution is occurring. Eat in the restaurants, shop the little boutiques which sell unique, locally produced products and wander through the streets with bunting fluttering overhead.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Head to the furthest north you can get and the island of Unst. Visit Hermaness National Nature Reserve here, where sea birds, including Gannets, Fulmars, and Puffins, crowd the cliffs creating an unbelievable spectacle. The views out to the Muckle Flugga lighthouse are beautiful.

Viking Sightseeing

See Viking remains across the islands. From the remains at Jarlshof through to reconstructed Viking houses in Unst, the Viking presence is tangible.

Head out to the island of Mousa where an Iron Age broch (the largest in Scotland) dominates the skyline and clouds of sheep wool litter the ground. This is an RSPB-maintained island packed full of wildlife (particularly the Storm-Petrels, which come here to nest), and there’s a perfect circular walk around it.

Take a boat trip around Noss, where you might spot whales, dolphins, and seals, along with other sea birds dancing around. The wildlife all over Shetland is breathtaking, and the birds nesting on the cliffs here is another of those moments that feels spectacular.

Shetland feels mystical and magical and is a fantastic place for a trip that all the family will love.

traveled by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

Pronounced eye-la, Islay is the southernmost island of The Inner Hebrides located just off the east coast of Scotland towards the island of Ireland. And while it is not the most scenic or exciting island for scenery and landscapes, it is easily one of the most popular island destinations in Scotland due to its world-renowned whisky trade.

Meaning it is also easy to reach by regular ferry services from the mainland of Scotland, making it possible to cover on a day trip to Islay leaving from the port at Kennacraig.  Islay is one of the most underrated beautiful towns in Scotland.

Whisky Distilleries

Islay is foremost famous for its peat-smoked whisky, including many big-name global brands like Bowmore, Ardbeg, and Laphroaig. On the island, there are 8 fully functioning whisky distilleries, and each offers its own unique distillery tours and experiences. Give 8 days of whisky exploration alone.  

The Three Distillery Walk

The arrival port at Port Ellen marks the beginning of a convenient walk for those arriving on foot to the island known as the “3 Distilleries Walk”. This follows a 3-mile route connecting 3 of Islay’s more prominent Whisky distilleries Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, along the southern coastline of the island. 

Island Tour

There are some tourist interests as well away from Islay’s whisky distilleries, and the island can be covered on a simple road trip on a short visit, including the lighthouses of Islay, the American Monument, and some nice sands at Machir Bay beach.  

Islay Wines

Not fussed for whisky? Then there is always Islay Wines. This is a newly established business on Islay and is the only West Coast winery in Scotland. They are also open for free tastings throughout the week. 

traveled by Allan Wilson from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

The stunning town of Inveraray in Scotland lies on the banks of Loch Fyne, the picturesque architecture reflecting perfectly in the lake’s still waters. This Georgian town centres around the church, jailhouse, and castle, built for the Campbell Clan and is a spectacular place to visit to get a taste of historic Scottish life. If you’re looking for the most beautiful towns in Scotland, don’t miss out on Inveraray.

Visit the Castle

Located on the edge of Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle is a neo-Gothic fortress that has been in the Dukes of Argyll family since the early 15th century and which today welcomes visitors to discover historical armour, weaponry, and artwork.

Guests can explore the house and gardens and can also walk up to Dun Na Cuaiche to enjoy excellent views of the castle and the town and loch beyond.

Visit Inveraray Jail and Courthouse

The Inveraray Jail and Courthouse is a living museum where visitors can step back in time to the 19th century to uncover the stories of those who were tried and imprisoned there. Gruesome punishments and strict sentences were doled out here, and visitors can see the cells and courthouse where it all took place!

Walk around Loch Fyne

Loch Fyne is one of Scotland’s many picturesque landscapes, with gentle hills gracing the shores of the lake and deer, birdlife, and even sometimes seals and otters being spotted around the water’s edge. Take in a small section of the lake as you walk out from Inveraray, perhaps stopping to enjoy a picnic en route.

Check out the Scottish Georgian architecture

Established in the mid-18th century by the Adam family and architect Robert Mylne, Inveraray is a planned town known for its Scottish Georgian architecture, with a grand neoclassical church, the Georgian jailhouse, the folk museum, and the bell tower.

Visit a Family-Run Brewery

An alternative activity to enjoy while visiting Inveraray is the Fyne Ales Brewery, a family-owned farm that creates Scottish beer and ales, taking water from the hills around Loch Fyne and turning it into the delicious amber nectar.

traveled by Chrysoula from All About Castles

Fort William

With around 6,000 inhabitants, Fort William is the largest city in the western Highlands and, without question, an important focal point of any road trip through Scotland.

This is truly one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland. It forms an axis with Inverness and Fort Augustus / Loch Ness along the lochs of the Central Scottish Highlands. In the tourist hotspot, you will find many bars and shopping opportunities.

However, you will not find the most important sights in the city itself, but as daily destinations in all directions:

No doubt, the main attraction of Fort William is the ascent of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain at 1,345 meters. But be careful: The tour should be planned and prepared accordingly, not only because of some difficult climbing passages, equipment, and weatherproof clothing are essential. The paths can be very crowded depending on the weather and time.

Nearby Mountains

The Ben Nevis is still a size too big or too touristy for you? Then the mamores are a good alternative. The picturesque mountain range lies between Kinlochleven and Glen Nevis. Here are a few more Munroes, the Scottish name for mountains higher than 3,000 ft. (914 meters).

In winter, the whole region is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders with the appropriate infrastructure of slopes and lifts. In summer, the area becomes more and more popular for mountain bikers.

If you prefer the water instead of the mountains, a boat trip to the picturesque Loch Linnhe is a great option. The ships regularly depart from Fort William, and on board, you have a completely different perspective of the city, surroundings, and nature.

You will find a special structure around 20 kilometers west of Fort William: The Glenfinnan Viaduct, also known as the Harry Potter Bridge, and a world-famous photo opportunity.

West Highland Museum

One of the attractions in Fort William itself is the West Highland Museum. Especially when the weather doesn’t play along for outdoor activities – and that should happen here and there in Scotland. In the museum, you will learn a lot about the history of the Highlands and the islands. Admission is free (!); donations are requested.

You see, Fort William is a great starting point for exploring the Western Highlands.

Traveled by Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog

Final Thoughts: Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

Now you know all of the most beautiful towns in Scotland! Hopefully, this post has helped you to plan your next trip – there are so many lovely places to visit in this country.

Explore Edinburgh & Scotland

Be sure to check out the rest of Scotland while you’re visiting! See more of our posts below.

• 17 Best Photo Spots in Scotland From Castles to Mountains
• 12 Fun Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours for Literary Muggles
• 15 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train
• 16 Best Edinburgh Instagram Spots
• 13 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh Scotland
• Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland | Ultimate Accommodation Guide

How to Spend One Day in Edinburgh, Scotland

10 edinburgh ghost tours that will freak you out.

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

6 Captivating Isle of Skye Tours from Inverness

17 Magical Scotland Weekend Breaks

Don’t Miss These 13 Best Things to do in Dornoch, Scotland

11 Enthralling Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

What are you looking for?

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

Scotland is packed with beautiful places to visit.

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

Which is exactly what we have done!

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

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

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

ALL based on where we have personally visited.

Let's get straight into it ...

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting around Scotland: What’s the best option?

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

20 Best Places to Visit in Scotland 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Glen Coe 

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

2. Fort William

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Fort William 

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

Where to stay in Fort William

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

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

3. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs national park

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

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

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

There is something for everyone.

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Loch Lomond 

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

Where to stay in Loch Lomond

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

4. Cairngorms National park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I could live there! 

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

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

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park 

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

5. Isle of Skye

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

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

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

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

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

Read more in our Eilean Sionnach Lighthouse Cottage review .

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

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

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

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

Read More: 3 Day Isle of Skye itinerary

Where to stay on the Isle Of Skye

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

6. The North Coast 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do on the North Coast of Scotland 

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

Read More: The Best Road Trips in Scotland

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

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

Glasgow is an awesome place to have a city break.

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

Things to do in Glasgow

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

Where to stay in Glasgow

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

8. Galloways (SW Coastal route)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do on the Southwest Coastal route

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

Where to stay near Galloways National Park

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

9. Inverness 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Inverness 

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

Where to stay in Inverness

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

10. Loch Ness

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

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

Just because I’ve heard so much about it.

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

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

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

Things to do in Loch Ness

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

Where to stay in Loch Ness

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

11. Stirling 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Stirling

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

Where to stay in Stirling

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

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

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

It’s small but mighty! 

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

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

Things to do in Oban 

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

You may also like: Best dog friendly hotels in Scotland

Where to stay in Oban

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

‍ Check them out here.

13. Glenfinnan 

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

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

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

Things to do in Glenfinnan

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

Where to stay in Glenfinnan

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

‍ Book it here.

14. Mallaig 

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Mallaig

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

Where to stay in Mallaig

Glenwood glamping pods are a great choice!

Book your stay here.

15. Applecross 

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Applecross

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

Where to stay in Applecross

The Applecross Inn of course! Book your stay here.

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

16. Edinburgh

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

We visited over my birthday and it was fantastic.

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

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

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

Things to do in Edinburgh

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

Where to stay in Edinburgh

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

17. Falkirk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Falkirk 

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

Where to stay in Falkirk 

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

18. Aberdeen

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Aberdeen 

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

Where to stay in Aberdeen 

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

19. St Andrews 

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

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

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

Lots of sweet shops, cafes, and much more.

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

Things to do in St Andrews 

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

Where to stay in St Andrews 

Find all the best accommodation in St Andrews right here.

20. Portknockie

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in the North East of Scotland

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

Over to you

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

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

Which one are you most excited to visit?

Drop me a comment below.

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong