top tourist attractions in scotland

20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

It's easy to find beautiful places to visit in Scotland. With our wild beaches, sparkling lochs and romantic castles, we're often referred to as one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Dunnottar Castle Aberdeenshire

A couple at Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

Dunnottar is one of the most recognisable castles in Scotland. Perched on the cliff edge of the North Sea, it boasts a dramatic and evocative atmosphere with centuries of history. Marvel at the intricate details and amazing condition of the castle, alongside the incredible panoramic views out to sea.

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Bow Fiddle Rock Moray

Bow Fiddle Rock, Portknockie

Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie is a stunning sight to admire as the sun shoots its last rays over the coastline. Hike the trails around the area, find your own secret slice of paradise and keep an eye out for the nesting seabirds, such as herring gulls, great black-backed and lesser black-backed gulls.

Isle of Iona Isle of Iona

Looking across the coast to the jetty on Iona

The Isle of Iona is a small, picturesque island just off the south west coast of Mull. Known for its strong, historic connections to Christianity, explore Iona Abbey or head to the northern coast which has beautiful bays and beaches, boasting the best views out to sea.

Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands North Uist

Camping at Clachan Sands

The Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands on North Uist is an impressive stretch of pristine white sands, perfect for a scenic stroll or a picnic on the beach. The crystal-clear waters and shallow bay give the perfect opportunity for snorkelling and swimming. Head for a wander at dusk to enjoy an immaculate sunset.

Bealach na Ba Wester Ross

Bealach na Ba

The Bealach na Ba is one of the most famous driving routes in Scotland. Known as the Road to Applecross, the route offers epic views out across the whole of Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. With its tight bends and single track, this road isn't for the faint hearted but the views from the top are astonishing.

Loch Ken Galloway Forest Park

Loch Ken, Galloway Forest Park

Located in the south east corner of the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Ken offers walking, cycling, watersports and fishing. Take a stroll around the banks of the loch at sunset and you'll be mesmerised by the landscapes.

Glenfinnan Fort William

Glenfinnan Monument

Glenfinnan Monument is a striking tribute to those who fought in the Jacobite Risings. Set amid superb Highland scenery at the head of Loch Shiel, it sits opposite the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. A must-see for any amateur photographer or Instagram enthusiast.

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Eoligarry Beach Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach, Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach is an unspoiled white sand beach on the Isle of Barra, the most southerly of the Outer Hebridean islands. Land on the island by plane along the famous Traigh Mhor beach and begin your adventure north to Eoligarry, featuring incredible views out to the islands of Orosay, Fuday and Fiaraidh around you.

An Lochan Uaine Cairngorms National Park

An Lochan Uaine

Legend says that this mysterious loch is green because the local fairies used to wash their clothes in the waters. It might just be due to the trees lying along the loch floor but either way, we think there is something pretty magical about the Green Loch in Glenmore Forest Park, situated in the heart of Cairngorms National Park .

Mealt Falls Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls on the north of Skye is an incredible sight. Partnered with the popular Kilt Rock, together they create a fantastic viewpoint. Take a wander around Mealt Loch, or along the coast and take in the jaw-dropping views for miles around you.

Rannoch Moor Perthshire

A frozen Lochan na h-Achlaise with a snow-capped Black Mount in the background, Rannoch Moor.

Rannoch Moor is one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe. You'll find grassy moorland, peat bogs, lochs and heather hillocks which all make for striking scenery.

National Wallace Monument Stirling

The Wallace Monument in autumn

Admire the famous National Wallace Monument in Stirling, and the incredible hills behind. Follow the story of Scottish patriot and martyr, Sir William Wallace at this national landmark where you can learn about centuries of history.

Ullapool Wester Ross

Head to the north west coast of Scotland where you'll come across the quaint fishing village of Ullapool. The town boasts a variety of things to see and do, as well as being a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset or two over the pretty harbour.

St Abb's Scottish Borders

St Abb's is a small fishing village sitting on the Berwickshire coast only an hour south east of Edinburgh. You might recognise the jagged cliffs and old fishermen's cottages from the big screen - Marvel filmed here for the blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame . The town has even been twinned with New Asgard, the fictional village in the movie.

Glen Clova Angus Glens

Corrie Fee, Glen Clova

Glen Clova is a valley with superb views and an abundance of flora and wildlife. It's one of the Angus Glens, a series of tranquil valleys split by single-track roads, offering some of the most majestic landscapes of north east Scotland. It sits between Angus, Perthshire and Aberdeenshire and makes up part of the Cairngorms National Park.

Fingal's Cave Isle of Staffa

Fingals Cave on Staffa Island

This awe-inspiring natural formation will take your breath away. Marvel at the towering basalt columns and intricate rock details of Fingal's Cave as you take a boat tour out to the island and explore the enticing atmosphere of the cave itself. You'll find it off the west coast of Scotland.

Corryvreckan Whirlpool Isle of Jura

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

The Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of the largest permanent whirlpools in the world and one of the most dangerous stretches of water around the British Isles. Take a boat ride out around the islands with a bumpy ride through the whirlpool itself, all in the hands of a very capable and experienced captain. It's located on the Gulf of Corryvreckan, between the isles of Jura and Scarba.

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Walkers on Conic Hill

Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland. Experience peace and quiet, whilst spotting wildlife and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Relax amongst the natural beauty of the lochs and breathe in the air of the hills and awe-inspiring views from each of these summits.

Yesnaby Castle sea stack Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

You can't help but admire the beauty around the Yesnaby Castle sea stacks. Sitting off the west coast of Orkney, this impressive rock formation is a great place to see various sea birds including the oyster catcher.

Tobermory Isle of Mull

A sea plane glides over the multicoloured houses along the pier at Tobermory, with the hills of North Mull over the water in the distance

Tobermory is one of the most easily recognisable towns in Scotland, thanks to the brightly coloured houses along the harbour-front. Head to the Isle of Mull where you can experience the magic of this quaint fishing port, which was used as inspiration for the popular children's TV show, Balamory .

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10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

A grand UNESCO Heritage trail, an island of whisky, a pagan fire festival—these are some of the experiences visitors shouldn’t miss.

A man with grey hair looks out the door of his small boat, calm waters and beautiful sky.

Scotland’s deep glens and dramatic coastline have long been a fixture of the silver screen. But nothing compares to discovering the place in real life: the endemic wildlife, the family-owned distilleries, the native writers who tell its tales. Here are the top 10 ways to experience this windswept country.

Cross a sandbar to Shetland Island beaches

On the Shetland Islands , a hundred miles north of the Scottish mainland, a 550-yard-long sand causeway connects two postcard-perfect beaches: one on the main southern island, and the other on the tiny St. Ninian’s Isle . On St. Ninian’s, the ruined chapel was the site of a large excavation of Pictish silver (now in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh). The coast wends its way around deep inlets, home to birds including skerries, gannets, and puffins.

Time travel to Scotland’s ancient past

Smooth rocks fill the the image under a dramatic and cloudy sky, a small structure built of stone sits center frame with grass an hills in the background.

Near the town of Oban in the West Highlands, Kilmartin Glen comprises around 350 archaeological sites that span 5,000 years of history. Many of these date from the Bronze and Neolithic Ages and include stone circles, cairns, and rock art. Learn more on a guided walk from Kilmartin Museum (booking essential). The museum has recently undergone extensive refurbishment and houses ancient ceramics and weapons, many of which were excavated just outside.

See all of Scotland’s UNESCO sites in one trail

Scotland’s UNESCO Trail , launched in 2021, is the world’s first tourist path linking all of a country’s UNESCO-designated sites. As well as the six World Heritage sites—including the Roman Antonine Wall and the far-flung island of St. Kilda —the route includes two global geoparks and two biospheres, and the UNESCO cities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee. The full trail takes around 40 days to complete, but can also be done in part: a suggested six- or eight-day Northern Isles route , for instance, takes in the Shetland Global Geopark and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney .

Journey to “Whisky Island”

Plentiful peat gives Islay’s whiskies their distinct smoky character, says Anthony Wills, founder of Islay’s Kilchoman Distillery . Though only 25 miles long, this Hebridean island has nine working distilleries, making it ideal for whisky tours. “The small-town feel and incredible location, the rugged coastlines and wild landscapes become a key part of the tour experience,” says Wills. He suggests visiting for the Fèis Ìle festival in May, when the island comes alive with folk music and dance.

Visit the world’s first rewilding center

Scotland is leading the world in rewilding efforts , which aim to restore landscapes to their original, uncultivated state. Central to this movement is the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre near Loch Ness. Visitors can take guided walks of the area and tour the tree nursery, which grows 100,000 rare and native specimens annually. There are also self-guided paths up to 2.5 miles long, passing by heather-covered moorland and pine forests both new and ancient.

Party like a pagan

Pagan Scots marked the beginning and the end of summer with fire festivals: Beltane on April 30 and Samhuinn on October 31. In 1988, a group of enthusiasts in Edinburgh formed the Beltane Fire Society and reimagined both festivals for the modern era, with drumming, costumed dancing, and pyrotechnic displays. Shetland’s Up Helly Aa festival in January—which started as a rowdy New Year celebration in the 19th century—sees torchlight processions through Lerwick, culminating in the burning of a Viking-style longship.

A fire rages behind a man in a winged helmet.

Spot breaching whales from a Hebridean island

The Hebridean Whale Trail , launched in 2019, brings together 30 wildlife-watching spots from Cape Wrath to the Isle of Arran. In most cases, you can see marine creatures from land rather than from a boat, minimizing environmental impact. Bottlenose dolphins, orcas, and humpback whales are among the species that can be spotted all year; basking sharks and minke whales join them in summer. Perhaps the finest site of all is Tiumpan Head Lighthouse on the Isle of Lewis, known for its population of blunt-nosed Risso’s dolphins. Check Whale Track for news of the latest sightings.

Feast on fine food in Fife

“Fife is lucky to have some of Scotland’s best farmland while also being surrounded on three sides by a bountiful coastline—it’s a chef’s dream,” says Rosie Jack, who runs the Bowhouse weekend market at the Balcaskie organic farming estate near Anstruther. Tuck into farm-to-table steaks at the Balgove Larder in St. Andrews, or mackerel and lobster at the East Pier Smokehouse , which overlooks St. Monans Harbour. Jack also recommends her local greengrocer Greens of Crail for its cheeses, preserves, and homemade gin.

Take a city tour for social good

Invisible Cities is a social enterprise that trains unhoused people to become tour guides in Edinburgh and Glasgow. “Having a guide is like having a friend who already knows everything about the place and is willing to share its secrets,” says founder Zakia Moulaoui, one of National Geographic’s Travelers of the Year 2024 . The guides’ knowledge extends far beyond the main sights: Edinburgh tour themes range from witchcraft to queer history . The Alternative Glasgow tour runs from the 19th-century People’s Palace museum to George Square, the site of both pro- and anti-independence rallies .

Delve into Edinburgh’s literary history

Edinburgh became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature in 2004; most of its bookish attractions are in the walkable city center. Scale the 200-foot-high Scott Monument , dedicated to Sir Walter Scott; view first drafts by Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson at the Writers’ Museum ; stroll through the graveyard at Greyfriars Kirk , where J.K. Rowling found inspiration for Harry Potter characters. The three-week Edinburgh International Book Festival takes place every August, part of the world famous Edinburgh festivals .

( For more tips on what to do in Scotland, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

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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.

Kilchurn Castle in the Scottish Highlands

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 village of Lochranza on the Isle of Arran

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

The Mealt Waterfall and Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye

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 Jacobite steam train on the Glenfinnan Viaduct

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

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