plan a trip to scotland

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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

From fairy-tale castles to charming small towns, the Scottish countryside is every bit as spectacular as you've heard.

Best Times to Go to Scotland

Best things to do in scotland.

• Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Where to Stay in Scotland

With its stately castles , glass-like lochs, and voluptuous glens, Scotland has always been a showstopper. The country's magic extends from its quaint small towns to the snow-capped peaks of its romantic, rugged Highlands to its dynamic modern cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It's home to some of the best national parks in the U.K. and more than 900 offshore islands with extraordinary wildlife like regal red stags, majestic golden eagles, humpback whales, and massive salmon (not to mention the fabled inhabitant of Loch Ness, too).

The raw, poetic beauty of this ancient land — formerly known as Caledonia — is difficult to overstate. If you're hoping to head to the U.K.'s ravishing northern nation, read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scotland vacation.

The bad news is that, like the rest of the U.K., Scotland's weather is far from reliable, even at the height of summer. But as long as you're prepared to accept that and pack a raincoat for the odd shower or two, then you'll be fine from May to September. The smart money is on visiting in June and the first two weeks of July, when Scotland basks in seemingly endless summer evenings (the sun doesn't set until 11 p.m. in some parts of the Highlands) and the British school holidays have not yet begun, so prices remain low.

For winter travelers, Scotland has the U.K.'s best ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain , while the capital, Edinburgh, hosts one of the world's biggest New Year's Eve parties, Hogmanay .

If you like the great outdoors, you'll love Scotland. It's an ideal place for hiking, biking, and generally embracing the wildly beautiful landscape. You can summit magnificent Ben Nevis in a day (the tallest mountain in the U.K., at 4,413 feet), take a ferry out to explore the Hebrides archipelago and its stunning white-sand beaches, tour scores of castles, including the Queen's favorite holiday home, Balmoral (open to the public every April through July), and dive into a quirky food scene encompassing dishes like haggis (an offal and oatmeal combo, which tastes significantly better than it sounds), deep-fried mars bars, and juicy scallops, langoustines, and mussels.

Scotland is also a mecca for both golfers ( St. Andrews Old Course is the headline act) and whisky lovers , with some of the world's best distilleries available to tour, including Johnnie Walker on Edinburgh's lively Princes Street, Glenlivet near pretty Ballindalloch, and the legendary Macallan on a sprawling country estate in nearby Aberlour.

If you enjoy driving, you'll find some of the U.K.'s emptiest, most dramatic roads here, too, (as driven by James Bond in "Skyfall"), including the latest official addition, the North Coast 500 , an action-packed 500-mile route (516 to be exact) featuring mind-boggling coastal scenery, jaw-dropping beaches, rolling hillside, quaint fishing villages, and multiple hidden gems.

And if you prefer your challenges on foot, check out the magnificent West Highland Way , the country's best-loved long-distance walking route. Snaking its way from Milngavie to Fort William, it covers some of Scotland's finest scenery over 96 miles and is normally completed from south to north.

Meanwhile, history buffs will also be agog on any visit to Scotland, thanks to its 3,000-plus castles ( Castle Sween in Argyll is the oldest, dating back to the 1100s), as well as plenty to check out in the winding wynds (narrow lanes) and twisted staircases of Edinburgh's enchanting Old Town. ( Edinburgh Castle , towering over the city, is arguably the grandest in the country, too.)

If you can, make time to visit Perth, the former Scottish capital where kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny and infamous Glen Coe, a beautiful valley full of waterfalls and deer, also known for the brutal clan massacre of 1692 (which inspired the Red Wedding in George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones ).

Where are the Scottish Highlands — and what is the best way to get there?

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

The clue is in its name: the Highlands are the mountainous upper half of Scotland, covering 10,000 square miles of picturesque scenery. The region's lively capital is Inverness , which sits centrally and is a superb base from which to explore, while other highlights include mysterious, misty Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park , and idyllic Isle of Skye , which has been connected to the mainland via a road bridge since 1995.

The easiest way to reach the Highlands is to fly into Inverness Airport from London or elsewhere in the U.K., or rent a car and drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, the way to arrive in style is on the Caledonian Sleeper train from London Euston, a chugging time machine where you can fall asleep to the sounds of black cabs and bustle of the British capital and wake up among the red deer and magical glens of the Highlands. Regularly nominated as one of the world's best train journeys , the scenery gets truly spectacular after Fort William, as the route skirts a dramatic chain of lochs before descending into lush glens and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films. For the ultimate Hogwarts experience, steam locomotives work this route during the summer months, so check in advance for these special departures.

The major cities have an abundance of hotels for every budget, headlined by Glasgow's Kimpton Blythswood Square , a boutique property in the former headquarters of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, and The Dunstane Houses in Edinburgh, a pair of beautifully renovated 19th-century townhouses.

Scotland arguably does traditional country house hotels and rustic lodges better than anywhere else in the world, with Fife Arms in Braemar and Gleneagles in Perthshire being particular treats (the latter, nicknamed the "Glorious Playground" boasts three championship golf courses, its own dedicated train station, and the only restaurant in the country with two Michelin stars).

Scotland is, of course, peppered with castles, and many have been converted into hotels and B&Bs in recent years, with some of the better fortified accommodation options including Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, Atholl Palace Hotel in Pitlochry, and Stonefield Castle Hotel on Loch Fyne.

Wherever you stay, you'll get a warm welcome — not to mention a hot bowl of Scottish porridge or a plate of bacon, eggs, and haggis to start the day in a spectacularly scenic country.

Planning A Trip To Scotland – The Ultimate Guide

Categories Planning a trip to Scotland , Scotland , Scotland Guides

Are you planning a trip to Scotland for the first time? How exciting! My first trip to Scotland was so amazing, that I ended up moving to Edinburgh a few years later. I’ve combined my years of experience working as a travel agent, travelling the world, and living and exploring Scotland to put this guide together to help you plan your dream trip.

Table of Contents

In my Planning a Trip to Scotland Guide I’m spilling the beans on how I personally plan my trips around Scotland. I cover the best times to visit Scotland, the regions you can visit, how to book flights, accommodation and activities and what to pack.

I hope this guide is a great introduction to planning a trip to Scotland!

Planning a trip to Scotland

Hiking the Quiraing on Isle of Skye at sunrise

What is the best time to visit Scotland?

Anytime! It really just depends on what you want out of your trip to Scotland.

My favourite months for exploring Scotland are April and May . This is spring in Scotland when the weather is starting to get warmer and we have more daylight hours. Scotland’s nature is also in full bloom, and you can enjoy it with fewer tourists around before the busy summer months.

Scotland gets busier in June, July and August, and these are the busiest months for tourists. That being said, Edinburgh is really fun during August because five of the Edinburgh festivals are on. The streets are swarmed with people attending the festivities, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Bear in mind this may not be the best time for you to visit if you hate crowds, and accommodation prices also triple during August making Edinburgh an expensive option!

Kinlochbervie in the northwestern highlands in summer

I also love travelling around Scotland during September and October. The autumn colours are gorgeous and the weather is still warm (particularly in September). If you’re looking for autumn breaks in Scotland , I’ve written a guide on my favourite places to see the golden foliage.

Another thing to be aware of when you’re planning a trip to Scotland is that most attractions are only open from April to around mid-October. If you’re visiting outside this time, you may be unable to visit all the castles, palaces and other historical attractions you want to see. Make sure you check the opening dates on the websites of the places you’d like to visit. Historic Scotland and the National Trust For Scotland are two of the main organisations that look after Scotland’s ancient attractions and are a good place to check opening dates.

During winter in Scotland , there is very little daylight. The sun will usually rise at around 8.30am and it will be pitch black by 3-4 pm. Keep this in mind when planning your trip to Scotland- you will need to squeeze in a lot with short daylight hours.

Average temperature guide:

• Spring: 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F)
• Summer: 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F)
• Autumn/Fall: 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F)
• Winter: -5°C (23°F) to 11 °C (51.8°F)

Please note the above is a guide; Scotland has very changeable weather and we can sometimes get snow or 25°C (77°F) days in spring!

Times to avoid visiting Scotland

When planning a trip to Scotland it is best to visit outside our school holiday and public holiday periods. Scotland can be busy during these times! You can search school holiday dates for each region here and public and bank holidays here .

Read my complete guide: When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Plan a trip to Scotland in the spring or autumn for the pretty colours

Where should you visit in Scotland?

Are you a nature lover or city slicker? Are you adventurous or do you like a relaxing spa weekend? Do you prefer whisky distilleries and bustling pubs or going off the beaten path?

Scotland may be a small country, but each of her regions are unique and different. There is something for everyone in Scotland!

I’ve written an in-depth guide on the regions in Scotland – so make sure you give that a read. It will give you a good idea about what there is to do in each region, and what each region in Scotland is known for. I’ve also given my top accommodation recommendations for each region.

Here’s a brief overview of each region:

Join my Scotland Travel Tips Facebook group for help planning your trip -it’s free!

• Aberdeenshire & Moray – Aberdeenshire is home to some of Scotland’s most famous castles on The Castle Trail. Moray is also home to the Speyside whisky region and the Malt Whisky Trail. Read my posts on Aberdeenshire and Moray
• Argyll & the Isles – Known as ‘Scotland’s Adventure Coast’, this region is known for its cute seaside villages, delicious seafood, and the islands making up the Inner Hebrides. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in Scotland and a personal favourite! Read my posts on Argyll and the Isles
• Ayrshire & Arran – Ayrshire is home to rolling farmland and over 50 golf courses! Arran is known as ‘Scotland in miniature’ and is an island that offers a little bit of everything. Read my posts on Ayrshire and Arran.
• Dumfries & Galloway – D&G is home to Scotland’s largest Dark Sky Park, Scotland’s National Book Town and Gretna Green, the marriage capital of Scotland where English couples would elope during the 18th century. Read my posts on Dumfries and Galloway
• Dundee & Angus – Known for its outstanding glens, innovation in design, museums and Arbroath Smokies [smoked haddock].
• Edinburgh & the Lothians – Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and is known for its beautiful gothic architecture. This region is also home to Linlithgow in West Lothian, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots (I also call West Lothian home!) Read my posts on Edinburgh & the Lothians
• Fife – Nicknamed the ‘Kingdom of Fife’ by locals, Fife was once home to Scotland’s biggest cathedral, St Andrews Cathedral. Today it is known for its pretty fishing villages in the East Neuk of Fife and for being a popular Outlander filming location. Read my posts on Fife
• Glasgow & the Clyde Valley – Glasgow and The Clyde Valley is known for its parks and green spaces, colourful and quirky locals, entertaining nightlife and thriving music scene. Glasgow is a great city for foodies, shopping and a night out! Read my posts on Glasgow & the Clyde Valley
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park [and Stirlingshire] – Loch Lomond and The Trossachs is Scotland’s first national park and is the perfect place for a nature escape. Stirling is famous for the almost-impregnable Stirling Castle and the world’s largest equine sculpture, The Kelpies. Read my posts on Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
• Orkney & Shetland – Orkney is made up of more than 70 islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It’s home to a variety of 5000-year-old Neolithic sites, towering sandstone cliffs and seal colonies. Shetland is located even further north of Orkney and is known for its ancient standing stones, Iron Age brochs and Viking heritage. Read my posts on Orkney & Shetland
• Outer Hebrides – An archipelago chain of over 100 islands spanning 150 miles and surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, the Outer Hebrides are one of Europe’s last untouched natural habitats. It’s the perfect place in Scotland to get off the beaten path. Read my posts on the Outer Hebrides
• Perthshire – Perthshire is the colourful beating heart of Scotland made up of cosy villages, tranquil walking trails, and bubbling brooks. Perthshire is the best place to visit in Scotland during autumn! Read my posts on Perthshire
• Scottish Borders – In the Scottish Borders you will find rolling hills and farmland, ancient abbey ruins and Roman roads that were once walked regularly by Scottish and English armies. It’s a region filled with history, and is popular for hill walking and horse riding. Read my posts on the Scottish Borders
• Scottish Highlands – Home to misty mountains, enormous lochs, cosy cabins, craggy castles and rugged coastline- the Highlands is a playground for outdoor lovers. Combined with it’s romantic clan history, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Scotland. Read my posts on the Scottish Highlands
• Scottish Islands – The Scottish Islands are primarily located in the Western Isles, however, there are some located on the north and east coast of Scotland. Each island is special in its own way and you’ll find an abundance of unique culture, cuisine and friendly hospitality second to none. Read my posts on the Scottish Islands

Read more: 34 books about Scotland you’ll love

The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

Things to do in Scotland

There are SO many things to do in Scotland, but I won’t overwhelm you. If you have a week in Scotland, I recommend ticking the following off your bucket list:

• At least 1-2 castles
• A whisky distillery
• A traditional Scottish pub
• At least one city, one town and one village
• At least one island
• Go on 1-2 hikes
• Visit a loch
• Visit at least one place in Scotland off the beaten path

If you need inspiration or ideas on things to do in Scotland, you can read all my Scotland blog posts here .

I also recommend using the Historic Scotland and National Trust for Scotland websites to find interesting historic sites to visit!

Read more: 10 Must-Sees in Scotland You Can’t Miss

Hiking in the Northwestern Highlands

Booking flights to Scotland

The key to finding the cheapest and most direct flights is patience and knowing where to search. I predominantly use Skyscanner to search for flights, and I also check Google Flights .

This is my four step process for finding cheap flights:

First of all, I do a quick search in Skyscanner to get a rough idea of price and the different flight paths available.

I always search in Incognito mode. Most commercial websites use Cookies to keep track of what you are searching on their website. Let’s say you’re flying from San Francisco to Edinburgh and you search for these flights in Google Flights or Skyscanner; now that website knows you are planning a trip there. Do you think they’re going to show you the cheapest prices anymore? Nope!

If you search while in Incognito, however, you are able to browse the web without these Cookies tracking what flights you’re searching for, so you’ll always see the cheapest flights!

Once I have an idea of what airlines fly the route I am wanting to go, I get out a notepad and write down the different flight options I can think of. I will write down the closest airport to me, and any other large airports nearby. For example, if I’m searching for flights from California to Edinburgh the major airports I’d write down would be Los Angeles and San Francisco. I would then search flights departing Los Angeles to Edinburgh, and San Francisco to Edinburgh. I also do the same for my end destination. The major airports in Scotland are Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness- search for flights to all of these airports!

For example, the flights I would search would be something like this:

• Los Angeles to Edinburgh
• Los Angeles to Inverness
• Los Angeles to Glasgow
• San Francisco to Edinburgh
• San Francisco to Inverness
• San Francisco to Glasgow

If you do all of the above searches, you’ll eventually find the cheapest and most direct route. You could also try flying into an airport in London; flights to London are often cheaper than flying into Scotland. You could then spend a few days in London and catch the LNER train or fly to Edinburgh.

Please note you can only book trains 3 months in advance- but there are regular trains from London to Scotland.

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

Step 3 [optional]

You can even take the above a step further and add a stopover in halfway. Do a search and write down where airlines seem to stopover.

Most airlines tend to have stopovers in their ‘hub city’. For example, Air France’s hub city is- you guessed it, France. KLM is a Dutch airline so it will often stop in Amsterdam.

Using the KLM example, you could search for a flight from Los Angeles to Amsterdam, and then have a stopover here for a couple of nights, and then book a separate ticket from Amsterdam to Edinburgh. I did this when I moved to the UK from Canada, I booked two one-way tickets (Kelowna to Toronto with Canada Air, and Toronto to London with West Jet). Doing it this way saved me $300. Just ensure you allow plenty of layover time in between your flights [at least 8 hours or spend a couple of nights]. If your first flight is delayed and you miss your second flight, you may not get rebooked on another flight.

You will also need to weigh up the costs of accommodation and activities for your stopover too. When I fly long haul I like this process because it means I get to see another country and it’s cheaper than booking two separate trips!

Once I find a price I’m happy with, I search the exact flights directly with the airline. I always book direct with the airline now in case of any problems that arise. When you book via a third party, you have a whole other set of terms and conditions to adhere to. Cut out the middle man and book direct!

More helpful tips for booking flights

• Flights come out 9-10 months in advance. Flights are sometimes cheaper at this time.
• Sign up for airline email lists that fly to your destination so you are aware when they are having a sale.
• Aer Lingus is known for having cheap flights from America to Scotland (if that’s where you’re flying from).
• WestJet often has cheap flights from Canada to London.
• As soon as you book your flights, you should purchase your travel insurance in case the airline you are booking with collapses [for example when Thomas Cook went bankrupt in 2019, many people without travel insurance didn’t receive a refund- and don’t get me started on Covid!].
• For flights within Scotland [for example to the Orkney and Shetland] check the airline Loganair .

Read more: How to travel Scotland on a budget

Highlands dancers at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Edinburgh

Finding the best accommodation in Scotland

When looking for accommodation in Scotland I use Booking.com . I like Booking.com because they have a large range of accommodation and offer free cancellation. Once I find a place I’m happy with, I’ll also compare prices booking directly with the property to see which has the cheapest price.

If I’m looking for a self-catering property or a house, I use VRBO and Airbnb. When I’m travelling with a group, these websites are my go-tos.

In my experience, the cheapest and most reliable third-party platforms are Booking.com , VRBO and Airbnb.

For pods, eco-huts, glamping and luxury camping I recommend Canopy & Stars and Huts and Cabins .

Read more: The best hostels in Scotland

A Scottish mansion

Booking tours and attractions in Scotland

I book most of my tours and attractions with Get Your Guide .

Get Your Guide is great because once you’ve purchased your tickets and booked your tours you can download their app, and all your tickets are in one place. They have a QR code system in the app so when you arrive the tour operators just scan your phone. It’s also super easy to make bookings on your mobile phone via the app or on their website.

Read more: 50 Travel Tips For Scotland

They also have free cancellation up to 24 hours before your activity in case your plans change, and 24/7 customer service.

I also like Get Your Guide because ticket prices are the same as purchasing direct but you can keep all your tours and activities in one place on the app.

Passes that will save you money

If you’re planning on visiting castles, cathedrals, abbeys and other Scotland attractions you might save money with an Explorer Pass from Historic Scotland.

Historic Scotland has the 7-Day Explorer Pass . With this pass, you can visit over 70 attractions in Scotland! All days must be consecutive and the cost is £44 per adult.

Entry into Edinburgh Castle alone is £19.50 online (£22 at the gate) and Stirling Castle is £17.50 online (£19.50 at the gate)- so all you have to do is visit these two attractions, plus one other, to make it worth buying the Explorer Pass.

I have an annual Historic Scotland membership and I love it! With this pass, you can purchase it for an entire year or pay monthly. If you live overseas you can purchase this pass too- but you have to pay more for postage if you wish to receive the quarterly magazine.

👉 Buy the Explorer Pass

The National Trust for Scotland also has a similar annual membership, which I also have. It’s particularly useful if you’re visiting Aberdeenshire, as many of their castles are owned by the National Trust.

You can purchase this membership online . It’s important to note that they do not have a pass similar to the 7-day Explorer Pass, so you will have to purchase the annual membership.

You can also visit other National Trust sites nationwide – including the National Trust for England attractions, which has over 500 sites.

👉 Purchase a membership with the National Trust

Edinburgh Castle

Car hire in Scotland

It is worth hiring a car if you’re visiting Scotland- you’ll get to see so much more! There are over 2000 castles in Scotland, so you won’t need to drive far to discover ancient castle ruins (with many being free to visit).

There are also many scenic drives in Scotland, including the North Coast 500 – Scotland’s answer to Route 66!

For car hire, I use Auto Europe , a car rental comparison site (similar to Skyscanner). I have my own car in Scotland, however, I used Auto Europe to hire a car on my recent trip to Ireland and they were fantastic. I was able to secure a great rate that included insurance, so all I had to do was pick up my car from the airport when I arrived.

Read more: 11 tips for driving in Scotland for the first time

One thing to always check in the fine print is the excess. In the UK and Ireland, the excess can be expensive- so ensure you have that amount on your credit card, as it will be blocked off when you pick up your rental car.

Something else to consider is the cost of fuel. If you’re visiting Scotland from Canada or the USA, you may be disappointed with the fuel costs here. As I write this in 2024, the cost for petrol/gas is sitting at around £1.50 per litre ($1.89USD).

I’ve found fuel to be a little cheaper in the bigger cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. The cheapest place to buy fuel is usually at an ASDA or Morrisons supermarket (but please note not all stores have a fuelling station).

Other car hire companies in Scotland that I recommend include Celtic Legend and Arnold Clark Car Rental .

Don’t want to drive yourself around Scotland? My husband and I provide private driving tours in Scotland! We can take you on a day trip or multi-day tour departing Edinburgh. You can choose from our range of itineraries or we can take you wherever you want to go! Visit our website Kiwi and Haggis Tours for more information.

Motorhome hire in Scotland

Another popular way self-drive option is touring Scotland in a motorhome !

There are many fantastic campsites throughout Scotland, plus you can also wild camp in Scotland. Just be sure to follow the Outdoor Access Code , and dispose of your waste at a designated site if you plan on wild camping in a motorhome.

Driving the North Coast 500

Read more: The best bookshops in Scotland

Public transport in Scotland

Travel by train.

Scotrail is the main railway in Scotland. Their website is useful for researching train routes and prices.

I always compare prices with Scotrail and Trainline to find the cheapest train tickets. For long journeys, I recommend purchasing your tickets online. For short train journeys (Edinburgh to Glasgow and travel within the central belt) you can purchase your tickets at the train station using the machines there.

Tickets for trains are available to book 12 weeks in advance.

Travel by Bus

For travel within the UK, I recommend first looking at Megabus . They have some fantastic fares- some for just £1!

Stagecoach and Scottish Citylink are other popular bus companies in Scotland.

Tickets for buses are available to book 12 weeks in advance.

Read more: 25 tips for sustainable travel in Scotland

Each region has their own local bus system. The bus companies in Edinburgh and Glasgow are fantastic- it’s my favourite way to travel around the cities. To explore Edinburgh by bus you can purchase an all-day ticket with Lothian Buses for £5. In Glasgow, you can get a day pass with First Buses for £5.60-£7.50.

Tickets can be purchased on board and most buses in cities accept contactless payments (tap or Apple Pay). In smaller towns and villages they may not accept contactless payments, so make sure you bring the correct change.

You can also explore Scotland’s cities on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus (HOHO). You can grab a 24-hour tour in Edinburgh , Glasgow and Inverness. These are useful because they usually stop outside the main attractions, so you can use it like a normal bus pass, plus you learn about the city’s history via the audio guide!

Get your tickets in advance 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Edinburgh 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Glasgow 👉 Buy the 24-hour HOHO tour in Inverness

The Hop-on, Hop-off bus is a great way to get to know Scotland’s cities

Packing for a trip to Scotland

I have written a complete blog post on what to pack for a trip to Scotland , so make sure you give that a read. Here are a few essentials I recommend you bring to Scotland:

• Shoes that are waterproof. I love my Timberlands ‘- they’re perfect for navigating cobblestone paths in small towns and cities.
• Rain jacket. My Rab rain jacket is a godsend- plus it’s flattering!
• A hat and gloves. I love my Barts beanie and these gloves .
• Lots of layers for the changeable weather.
• A warm-down jacket. I love my one from The North Face .
• For hiking, I recommend these Scarpa Terra hiking boots for women. They also have a men’s version .

You can find all of the above in my Amazon store. Here is my USA Amazon store and here is my UK Amazon store.

Packing for a hiking adventure in Scotland

Recommended Scotland itineraries

I’ve written several itineraries for travel in Scotland. My itineraries cover all the must-sees in Scotland, and I’ve also included many off-the-beaten-track experiences too!

If you’re planning on going to any of these areas, make sure you give these itineraries a try.

• How to spend 4 days in Scotland
• How to spend 10 days in Scotland
• How to spend 2 days in Edinburgh
• How to spend 2 days in Inverness
• How to spend 2 days on the Isle of Skye
• How to spend 1 day in St Andrews
• Things to do in Glencoe
• An itinerary for the North Coast 500

Everyone has a different travel style, so if you’d like a personalised itinerary made for you, I’d love to help! Just check out my itinerary planning services page for all the information.

Read more: Common questions about visiting Scotland answered

Exploring the castle ruin of Elcho Castle in Perthshire

Planning a trip to Scotland course

Need help planning your trip to Scotland?

I highly recommend signing up for my  Planning A Trip to Scotland Course . Created by myself and Lonely Planet writer Kay (The Chaotic Scot), the course includes 70+ short videos that walk you through planning your itinerary step-by-step!

This course will help you save time, stress, and money- and help you plan your perfect trip. Kay and I walk you through the exact process we use for planning our own trips around Scotland- including hiring a car and using public transport, finding things to do, travelling to the islands, the map-building technology that we use, travel etiquette, and SO much more.

👉 Get the Planning A Trip to Scotland Course

Helpful Links

Historic Scotland – to research any castles or historic spaces you’d like to visit, and to check opening dates National Trust For Scotland – to research any castles or historic spaces you’d like to visit, and to check opening dates Skyscanner – to find cheap flights and compare prices with different airlines Google Flights – another flight comparison website Booking.com – for booking accommodation VRBO – for booking accommodation Canopy & Stars – for glamping and luxury camping Huts and Cabins – pods, huts, glamping, and camping accommodation WalkHighlands – for information on hiking in Scotland with over 2000 hiking routes Auto Europe – car hire comparison website I use for hire in the UK Celtic Legend – car hire in Scotland Scotrail – main train network in Scotland and for checking train routes Trainline – it’s sometimes works out cheaper booking trains here Megabus UK – for cheap bus fares in Scotland and the UK

>> Did this guide help you? Don’t forget to sign up to my monthly newsletter about my adventures in Scotland!

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Saturday 30th of March 2024

Thank you for your blog post! Its been very helpful in planning my first solo trip. Visiting Scotland in June and coming from South Carolina in the U.S. It's VERY hot here in summer. Still going back and forth on what for June in Edinburgh. A good pair of sneakers or boots? Beanie and gloves? Rainjacket and light sweaters ordered?

Sunday 18th of February 2024

Fabulous email! Thanks for all the info!

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

Hi! I am planning a trip to Scotland in September. This will not only be my first time to Scotland, but also my first time out of the United States! Thank you so much for this; it has been so helpful! I did have a question as far as spending money there. I plan on paying ahead of time for some attractions with the links you provided. But as far as restaurants, bars, and shopping, do most places accept credit cards? Will I need a lot of cash on me, that I'll need to switch over from US dollars?

Friday 27th of January 2023

Great site, so useful! I'm combining this with London/SW England. Do you have a good blogger to suggest for that area? Thanks

Chuck Schall

Friday 11th of November 2022

My wife and I are planning a trip to Scotland in early June. We are interested in hiring a driver/guide instead of driving ourselves. Do you have any recommendations?

Yvette Webster

I highly recommend Tom from Photo Walk Scotland - I've been on a few tous with him and he is fantastic! He can do day tours and multi-day tours. He has a degree in Scottish History too, so a very interesting chap! Plus if you mention that I referred you, he will give you 15% off too. His website is https://www.photowalkscotland.com/

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One Week in Scotland

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

This seven-day Scotland touring itinerary has something for everyone, whether you're an urban connoisseur or a wilderness fan. Historic castles, legendary outlaws, and mythical sea monsters all vie for your attention. So does the seafood, fished from cold North Sea waters, as well as the water of life—more commonly known as Scotch whisky. Any short visit to Scotland is bound to leave you hungry for more.

This driving itinerary is organized day by day rather than hour by hour. It's meant to give you a good overview while providing enough freedom to allow you to pick and choose without losing the plot. As long as you end up in the suggested destination at the end of each day, you should have plenty of time to discover what makes Scotland special and especially loved by visitors.

Day 1: Edinburgh

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Morning: Start your day in Edinburgh early, with a hearty Scottish breakfast at your hotel. Edinburgh is a very hilly city and you want to stoke up on carbs for all the walking. Don't pass up the oatmeal that's usually included in a Scottish breakfast. The pinch of salt they add makes it very special.

Then head for the bottom of The Royal Mile ; starting at The Palace of Holyrood House, this street climbs through Old Town and ends at Edinburgh Castle. Though most people walk down the Royal Mile, we think it works better in the opposite direction when you still have lots of energy.

The Palace of Holyrood House , the Monarch's official residence when she is in Scotland, is only partially open to the public. The self-guided audio tour will take you an hour or less.

Across the street, you'll find the Scottish Parliament. Controversial (it cost more than $506 million after an original proposal of $12 million) and architecturally interesting, you can see the key areas in about 15 minutes.

Afternoon: The Inn on the Mile is a handy place to stop for lunch, and is about three-quarters of the way up the Royal Mile .

When you're done eating, climb up to Edinburgh Castle for the spectacular views at the top. Unless you are fascinated by military history, skip the museums and exhibits; instead, walk down through Princes Street Gardens to the Scottish National Gallery on the Mound.

Evening: Sample any one of more than 300 brands of scotch whisky at the Bow Bar on West Bow in the Old Town. Then head for an early supper at Edinburgh's famous Italian deli, Valvona & Crolla , or a casual pizza at the popular La Favorita. If jet lag is starting to set in, order online and they'll deliver to your hotel room.

Day 2: Scotts View, Abbotsford, and Traquair

 Michelle Kelley Photography/Getty Images

Morning: Head out of the city and south into the Borders, a county punctuated by the meandering River Tweed and rich in history and literary connections. On your way, take a few minutes to stop at Scott's View . A favorite of novelist, playwright, and poet Sir Walter Scott, this spot gives you stunning views of the Eildon Hills , three distinctive volcanic plugs, and the Tweed Valley. There's a small parking area with an orientation table a historic marker.

Afterwards, pay a visit to Melrose Abbey . Built in the 12 th century, the abbey is believed to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart . There is a memorial stone marking the spot.

Make your way to Abbotsford House next. Sir Walter Scott almost bankrupted himself building this remarkable faux-medieval fantasy palace surrounded by beautiful gardens on the Tweed. After his death in 1832, the house immediately became a place of literary pilgrimage. It has been open to the public since 1833. Stop for lunch at Abbotsford before moving on to Traquair.

Afternoon: Traquair House is the oldest continuously inhabited house in Scotland and has been in the same family for 900 years. It is a fascinating place, connected to stories of political intrigue, Jacobites, secret Catholics, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Mary Queen of Scots. You can even sample a bevy from Traquair's own brewery. The house and grounds can be visited daily between April and the end of October, and weekends only in November.

Evening: Return to Edinburgh and enjoy some fine dining in Leith, the city's waterfront district. Try The Kitchin or Restaurant Martin Wishart , both owned by celebrity chefs and spangled with Michelin stars. Book either online before you leave home.

Day 3: The Forth Bridges, Falkirk Wheel and Stirling Castle

Morning: It's just a 15-mile drive from Edinburgh to the Forth Bridges . When the first one opened at Queensferry in 1890, it was the world's biggest man-made steel structure and a marvel of Victorian engineering. About nine miles from Edinburgh, the historic railroad bridge is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, joined by two other remarkable bridges. When the Forth Road Bridge opened in 1964, it was the largest long-span suspension bridge outside the U.S. The Queensferry Crossing opened in 2017 and is the longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world. There's a terrific viewpoint to see all three at Hawes Pier in Queensferry.

The Falkirk Wheel is the world's only rotating boat lift. It raises and lowers boats and their passengers—to a height of 115 feet—between the Forth&Clyde and Union Canals. Book ahead on the website and you can take a 50-minute ride on it. Have some lunch at the visitor center before moving on.

Afternoon: Plan on spending the whole afternoon at and around Stirling Castle , about 13 miles away. Sitting on top of an impressive volcanic rock and protected on one side by dramatic cliffs, the castle has long remained a symbol of Scottish independence with its strong connections to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and Mary Queen of Scots. It was first mentioned in 1110 when King Alexander built a chapel there, but in all likelihood it is much older. There are a range of guided and self-guided audio tours you can take to see the royal palace's great halls and kitchens, chapel, and regimental museum. From the castle walls, you can see Stirling Bridge, the site of William Wallace's 13 th -century victory over the English.

Just below the castle is Stirling Old Town . It is a virtually intact Medieval town and you should plan on spending some daylight hours walking around it.

Evening: Have dinner and spend the night in Stirling. There's a good selection of hotels and plenty of casual bistros, cafés, and pubs.

Day 4: The Cairngorms, Urquhart Castle, and Loch Ness

Morning: Fill up on fuel and water before leaving Stirling; you'll be passing through some of the emptiest areas and highest plateaus of Cairngorm National Park . First stop: Balmoral , the Queen's private vacation home. Built by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, the Scottish Baronial estate is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and mountain views. You can only visit a small part of the house, but there is usually an interesting exhibition to see. The house is closed to the public when the Queen and the royals are in residence, from August through October. Tickets need to be booked in advance.

Note: If you're in the area when the Queen is in residence, visit Blair Castle on the Blair Atholl estate or Braemar Castle instead.

Afternoon: Heading north on a curving route from Balmoral, you'll enter an area that has recently been dubbed the SnowRoads . It includes the highest public road in Britain and the highest public road mountain pass. The scenery, though lonely and empty, is also spectacular. In the northwest corner of the Cairngorms is Speyside, one of Scotland's most important whisky-making areas. Stop in the little market town of Tomintoul to pick up a bottle or two for later.

Now's your chance to look for the Loch Ness Monster. Urquhart Castle offers a high vantage point over Loch Ness. Even though it's a ruin, the location makes this one of the best castles in Scotland.

Evening: End your day by driving to Invermoriston Falls, a spectacular series of rapids and waterfalls crossed via a historic, pedestrian-only 19 th -century bridge . The Glenmoriston Arms Hotel, across the parking lot for the falls, has decent food, traditional music, and comfortable beds.

Day 5: Eilean Donan and Glencoe

Morning: Leave Invermoriston for Eilean Donan Castle , probably the most quintessential image of an early medieval Scottish fortress. The drive there is unforgettable; you'll pass forbidding dark lochs through valleys of brooding mountains.

Originally built as a fortress to defend the mainland from the Vikings, Eilean Donan was destroyed in the  Jacobite rebellion of 1719 . It was rebuilt between 1911 and 1932 from surviving ground plans of earlier buildings. The castle occupies an island at the confluence of three great sea lochs, but you can reach it on foot via a stone bridge. Eilean Donan's re-enactors make this a fun visit.

Afterwards, drive over to Fort William , often called the gateway to the Highlands. The town—located underneath the shadow of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis—is a handy place to stop for lunch. There are plenty of quick food outlets and fish and chip shops, but if you're feeling adventurous, hop on a gondola for a mountain lunch at the Snowgoose Restaurant .

Afternoon: Glencoe is one of the most important landscapes in Britain and no visit to the Western Highlands would be complete without. Be sure to check out the  eco-friendly visitor center . Here you can start a short nature and wildlife walk on the edge of the glen, find out more about the epic adventure trails, and immerse yourself in the sad history of betrayal and murder that still haunts this valley.

Evening: In the nearby village of  Ballachulish , you'll find a range of accommodation, from hotels and guest houses to campsites. There are places to eat within a short distance of the visitor center as well.

Day 6: A Scenic Drive and a Loch Lomond Cruise

 Dennis Barnes/Getty Images

Morning: Take the short, scenic drive through Glencoe to the green, romantic hills of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park . It's an easy, quiet road, but take your time and stop whenever you see a place to pull over; the scenery is spectacular and the geology that formed it astonishing.

When you reach Loch Lomond, continue down its west bank to Tarbet or all the way to Balloch on the southern shore. Tarbet is a quiet village near a narrow part of the loch, with good tourist services and access to some fabulous cycling. Balloch is the main commercial tourism center for Loch Lomond. What you do for the rest of the day depends on how active you like to be.

Active Afternoon Itinerary: If you want to see as much as possible, head over to Tarbet and park in the public parking area near Tarbet Pier. After you explore the village, hire a bike from Cruise Loch Lomond . You can take the bike with you on the Waterbus to Inversnaid; from here, ride the four miles along the north shore of Loch Arklet to Stronachlachar.

At Stronachlachar Pier, board the Steamship Sir Walter Scott for a round trip cruise on Loch Katrine. When it's over, cycle back to Inversnaid and return to Tarbet Pier on the water taxi. Then make your way to Balloch for the night.

Relaxed Afternoon Itinerary: Want to take it much slower? Instead of going to Tarbet, drive to Balloch and climb aboard the " PS Maid of the Loch ," the last paddle steamer built in Britain. Afterwards, grab some souvenirs at Loch Lomond Shores, a nearby shopping center.

Take the Waterbus from Balloch Pier to Luss, a conservation village on the west bank of Loch Lomond. Most of the cottages in in this flower-bedecked village date from the 18 th and early 19 th centuries. There are several marked circuits ranging from an easy, 15-minute walk around the village to an hour-long Heritage trail.

Walk to the end of Luss Pier for good views of Ben Lomond. From Luss, you can take a short Waterbus trip to Inchcailloch, a secluded island just offshore with several good paths. Return to Luss, and from there, back to Balloch for the evening.

Day 7: Glasgow

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Morning: It's a mere 20 miles from Balloch to Glasgow, Scotland's liveliest city. When you reach the city, tour the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum . It's a huge late Victorian storehouse, featuring everything from Scottish and European paintings to dinosaur skeletons and stuffed animals. Don't miss Salvador Dali's remarkable "Christ of Saint John of the Cross," one of the museum's great treasures.

When you're done exploring the museum, check out Kelvinbridge. This part of Glasgow's already trendy "west end" (so hip the name is never capitalized) was recently voted one of the 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world. Shop for vintage and retro fashions, and buy a takeaway picnic at Roots, Fruits and Flowers —Glasgow's local answer to Whole Foods.

Afternoon: Climb the hill of Kelvingrove park—one of Glasgow's gorgeous green spaces—and enjoy your picnic there. Then check out the City Center Mural Trail . Made up of 25 murals, this trail of outrageous street art is all within an easy stroll of the city center.

Have your mind blown by an afternoon show at Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre . A permanent exhibition by a Russian emigré artist, this indescribable production combines kinetic sculpture, automata, music, and lighting effects.

Evening: Make your last meal in Scotland a good one. Dine in Finneston, the hub of Glasgow's somewhat macho foodie scene. Try The Finnieston , known for its top seafood and gin bar. Or chow down on amazing dry-aged beef and game at Porter & Rye.

Glasgow's nightlife is famous. For comedy, take your chances at The Stand . See new and emerging bands at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut or downstairs at Òran Mór, a multi-arts venue that also hosts comedy and theatre.

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park: The Complete Guide

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Castles to Visit in Scotland

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

48 Hours in Edinburgh: The Ultimate Itinerary

Edinburgh Walk - One Day on and Around the Royal Mile

Top 10 Great Scenic Drives in Britain

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

The Top 20 Things to Do in Edinburgh

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

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How to Plan a Trip to Scotland: Advice from Local Travel Experts

19 Apr, 2021

If you’re reading this, you are probably ready to plan a trip to Scotland but still in your research phase to figure out where to go, what to do, what you shouldn’t miss, and so much more.

As experts in all things Scotland travel, we love to help visitors craft their dream itinerary. Maybe you love the history and heritage of Scotland. Perhaps it’s the natural, rugged beauty or our cultural charms. There is much to appreciate during a trip to Scotland.

While you’re likely already convinced that Scotland is the best destination for your next trip, we thought we’d share a few of our favourite reasons for visiting Scotland. Just in case you’re still thinking of other destinations instead!

Why Plan a Trip to Scotland

People from all over the globe visit Scotland for its incomparable natural beauty, its rich history, and its ancient castles and structures. In fact, Scotland is regularly voted the most beautiful country in the world , beating the likes of Iceland, New Zealand, and Canada to the top spot.

In a land where people have left their mark for thousands of years, history buffs and culture connoisseurs will adore Scotland.

Stand amidst the ruins of an ancient castle. Look up at the standing stones of a circle built millennia ago. You will feel the weight of time and admire the sheer scale of Scotland’s extraordinary past.

Of course, not all our castles are in ruins! In fact, you can explore countless beautiful structures today. Some are still personal homes that can only be appreciated from the outside. Meanwhile, others are open to the public to enjoy the wealth and beauty of such grandeur.

You can even stay in many castles dotted around the country! We’re quite fond of a few and recommend them to our guests.

Scotland is also known for golf, whisky, island hopping, the Scottish Highlands, and fantastic festivals and celebrations recognised around the world.

This bonnie country offers too many treasures to count, which makes it impossible to see everything in one trip to Scotland! But at Inspiring Travel Scotland, would like to at least help you begin to plan a dream trip to Scotland.

Let’s dive into some Scotland trip planning details.

Let an Expert Plan Your Trip to Scotland

You can, of course, plan a trip to Scotland on your own, using the wealth of information available online and ample tools and apps to guide your way. But there are many reasons why people prefer to rely on Inspiring Travel Scotland when it comes to planning that special dream trip.

As local experts who live in and love Scotland, we hold vast knowledge and unparalleled insight into the country and its offerings.

Whilst you could spend whole days and even weeks researching and planning, we already know it all. Our expertise can help you sort out where to go and what to do.

And we also how to get there with the best views or avoiding the rough roads…perhaps even helping you to spot some local wildlife!

Our insights can point you toward luxury, personalised service and the most exceptional Scottish handcrafted gifts for you to take home.

We know these places and people because these are our neighbours and our communities. For visitors to truly experience Scotland at her best, there is nothing that can compare to local insight and expertise in trip planning.

That’s why we offer customised Scotland tours that allow guests to tell us in advance exactly what they’re looking for from their big Scottish adventure. This allows us to create the perfect tailormade tour for each guest.

You simply can’t see everything there is to see in Scotland in 7, 14, or even 21 days. But, with help from the experts, you can certainly enjoy some of your bucket list spots plus plenty more you didn’t even know to add to your list!

When you let the local experts plan a trip to Scotland with your dreams and interests in mind, it will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.

Planning a road trip around Scotland?

Another reason why many people ask Inspiring Travel Scotland to plan their Scotland trip is that driving on the left side of the road feels confusing and intimidating for them.

If you allow us to take care of your tour, we will provide you with an expert tour guide who also serves as your personal driver, taking you everywhere you want to go!

Planning a Scotland road trip is iconic and highly recommended. But taking a trip that is stressful or challenging isn’t an ideal holiday. Let a local expert handle the navigation, narrow lanes, and left-side manual driving whilst you take in the vistas.

It’s especially helpful if you want to sample our local whisky en route, without worrying about being a designated driver. If this is your dream trip to Scotland, then it should be as easy and enjoyable as possible!

What to Pack for a Scotland Trip

Scotland might not be a huge country, but it has vastly different landscapes, cities, and towns to explore. Whilst there is no universal list of ideal items you should pack for your trip to Scotland, there are advisable items regardless of your travel style.

Although no two trips are the same, we recommend that most people visiting Scotland make sure to bring the following:

Good Walking Boots

Whether you intend to bag a munro or simply stroll around a glistening loch, good walking boots are usually a must for any Scotland trip.

So much of what makes Scotland special is its natural landscapes, so you’ll want to get out in nature and walk around. Good walking boots that have been worn in and are comfortable can make your trip so much more enjoyable. Keep your feet dry and your nice shoes clean!

Waterproof Clothing

Just as essential as walking boots is waterproof clothing. Scotland isn’t exactly known for its sunny weather. Scotland is just as rainy as you expect, but that adds to its sense of rugged charm.

However, despite the rain, our weather is only very rarely dangerous. We don’t get hurricanes, tornados, or other environmental disasters, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Having a good waterproof jacket will keep you dry and warm, regardless of the time of year you visit Scotland.

At Least One Fancy Outfit!

Scotland has many fine dining establishments, whisky bars, and sophisticated cocktail bars. There’s also a good chance you’ll attend a ceilidh (a Scottish dance) on your visit!

Packing at least one fancier outfit will serve you well and give you greater options for a special night out during your dream trip to Scotland.

Cell Phone (& Charger & Converter)

Do bring your phone for photos, memories, consulting a map, and everything else we use our phones for these days! But don’t forget your charger and a converter, if necessary.

It’s also a good idea to set up (if you don’t use it already) Apple Pay or Google Pay. This allows you to purchase items using a contactless method, which is prevalent in Scotland.

Warm and Cool Clothing

Scotland is not extremely warm nor cold in comparison to many other countries. But how cold or hot it feels completely depends on your own personal tolerances.

In Scotland, the average winter temperature is 32°F (0°C). The average summer temperature is 59°F (15°C), which isn’t as warm as many places in summer. Tank tops and sandals may feel like typical summer attire to you, but you’ll want a jumper and proper shoes at all times of year in Scotland.

The average spring temperature is 50°F (10°C) and the average autumn/fall temperature is 52°F (11°C). So you’ll see our climate stays quite mild year-round.

Layers are always a good idea when packing for a trip to Scotland.

You can take a look at our guide to seasons and weather in Scotland to get some additional insights.

Choosing Where to Go in Scotland

There is so much to see and do on a trip to Scotland! That’s why it’s important that you do a little research and think about which places you have to see. That will help ensure you fill your Scotland trip with all of the best bits!

If you love nature above everything else, then you should certainly plan a trip to the Scottish Highlands. Get inspired to plan your trip with our guide to the Scottish Highlands .

The Highlands are incredible, but so are many of the Scottish islands! You’ll also want to peruse our guide to the Scottish Islands to see if any of these destinations piques your interest.

Are whisky tastings and distillery tours number one on your list? Start with our guide to Scotland’s Whisky and Distilleries to get inspired!

Perhaps you care more about visiting cities to enjoy the history and architecture. Don’t worry…Scotland has so much to offer you!

You’ll surely enjoy visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Stirling, all of which can be found in the Scottish Lowlands. You can get some ideas from our suggestions of things to do in Edinburgh and things to do in Glasgow to get started with your planning.

Add Castles to Your Scotland Trip Planning!

In Scotland, you can expect to find some of the most impressive castles in the world. But there are also a lot of art galleries, museums, and historical walking tours to satisfy your appetite for grandeur!

From Edinburgh to Stirling, from the Borders to the Highlands, Scotland boasts castles of all shapes and sizes. You should take a look at our guide to castles in Scotland to get inspiration for which ones to visit during your trip to Scotland.

If you’re truly ready to plan a dream trip to Scotland, we would love to help you. Let’s craft it together based on your interests and preferences so you maximise your time whilst enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

Simply get in touch to get started. Scotland is an amazing country with so much to offer, and we can’t wait for you to visit!

This post was originally published in November 2019 and updated in April 2021.

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How to plan a trip to Scotland

By: Author [email protected]

So you are planning a trip to Scotland? Hooray! How exciting! Don’t know where to start with the rest of the planning?

Travelling to any new place can be overwhelming – and with thousands of miles of stunning scenery, lochs, mediaeval cities, castles, mountains, national parks and hundreds of islands to visit, planning your trip to Scotland can be mind-boggling. Here’s my guide to everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland. 

1. Start with your itinerary

You’ve probably got a few things to do in Scotland on your to-do list already. Want to visit the Isle of Skye? Go to the Edinburgh festival? Drive through Glencoe? See that castle with the wee bridge?

You could spend years visiting Scotland (and I have) and it’s tempting to try and squeeze in all of the ‘top ten places in Scotland’ to visit into your one week trip.

But hold up. Like a lot of places in the world, at times Scotland is suffering from over-tourism. Glencoe is full of bad parking, there are crowds jostling to take videos of the ‘Harry Potter train’ going over the Glenfinnan viaduct and locals moan on Facebook about being stuck behind convoys of camper vans on their way to the Fairy Pools on Skye.

Thankfully Scotland is a huge place and there are loads of places you can visit to get off the beaten track and away from the crowds. I’m not saying don’t visit the popular spots, but don’t make them the focus of your trip or you are truly missing out on the real Scotland – not the one you’ve seen on Instagram.

If you want to truly experience the real Scotland, try:

• The real ‘ top ten’ places you should be visiting in Scotland – you won’t regret it, I promise!
• Get off the beaten track with these Scotland hidden gems
• 10 off the beaten track and ‘remote’ places to visit in Scotland
• If you have to visit the top ten guide book places to visit in Scotland here is how to do it.

2. Plan a road trip around Scotland

Planning a road trip in Scotland is an art. Maybe you have a week, 10 days or if you are lucky, even longer. You will still want to see EVERYTHING, including going to the Outer Hebrides, Skye, Orkney and Loch Ness – believe me, seeing it all cannot be done. You will just need to keep coming back – or use one of my itineraries to plan your perfect trip: 

• Do you want to drive the North Coast 500? Scotland’s most famous road trip takes in 500 miles around the north coast of Scotland taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Here is a perfect 7 day north coast 500 itinerary or plan your own with my ultimate NC500 guides .
• Want to visit the Highlands of Scotland in just a few days? Explore with this best bits of central Scotland and the highlands road trip . starting in Edinburgh, road trip to Loch Lomond, then head north to explore Scotland’s most famous glen, Glencoe, and on to Loch Ness before returning via beautiful Perthshire. 
• Thinking of going Island hopping? Get on a ferry and go island-hopping on the west coast . if you just have a fews days, grab a ferry hopping ticket from CalMac and sail from Skye to Mallaig, Kilchoan to Tobermory, and Craignure to Oban.
• Really want to get off the beaten track and see Scotland’s west coast? Discover the wilds of Wester Ross . With over 3000 square miles of soaring mountains and atmospheric glens, ancient Caledonian forest and wild beaches set against a backdrop of fjord-like lochs; Wester Ross is one of the world’s most spectacular, and remote, regions.

More Scotland itineraries

• Explore Scotland’s National Parks – visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs  and  The Cairngorms National Park .
• Deeside – explore Royal Deeside home to the famous Balmoral Pyramids.
• Orkney – visit  Orkney and discover 5000 years of history including Skara Brae and famous standing stones.
• The Isle of Islay – fall in love with the Isle of Islay – especially if you love whisky.
• Moray and Speyside – drive  The Moray Firth  coastal route visiting some of the north of Scotland’s prettiest villages before heading down into Speyside to tour the whisky distilleries.
• The East Neuk of Fife – eat your way around  the East Neuk of Fife  – Scotland’s Cornwall.
• The Western Isles / Outer Hebrides – have an adventure in the fabulous  Outer Hebrides.
• Ardnamurchan – visit remote  Ardnamurchan and the most westerly Point of Scotland.
• Aberdeenshire – discover  Aberdeenshire with its beautiful coast and hundreds of fairytale castles.

Want to go it alone? Use my guide to planning your own  road trip around Scotland  and my favourite  places to stay in Scotland .

3. Book somewhere fabulous to stay in Scotland

Scotland does accommodation brilliantly. From luxury hotels to glamping and camping there is so much choice. However not everywhere is good – and prices can be very high. Here are my favourite places to stay in Scotland – tried and tested by us!

• My favourite places to stay in Scotland and 15 more fab places to stay in Scotland
• Looking for a hotel? Here are my favourite luxury and boutique hotels in Scotland
• Like to be able to spread out or cook, then check into self catering accommodation
• Scotland has amazing log cabins, huts and lodges and there are lots of log cabins with hot tubs
• Like the outdoors? Why not choose a campsites in Scotland
• With your partner? Here is the best romantic places to stay in Scotland and how to plan a honeymoon in Scotland
• Got the pup in tow? Here is my favourite dog friendly accommodation in Scotland
• Go all in and choose one of the many castles to stay in Scotland

4. Prepare for the Scottish ‘weather’ 

It is going to rain on your trip to Scotland. I can guarantee it. Scotland doesn’t stay a wonderful green & verra pleasant land without a lot of rain. When we talk about the ‘weather in Scotland’ we rarely mean the sun. Instead, we have hundreds of words to describe rain – my favourites include:

• dreich (miserable)
• drookit (absolutely chucking it down)
• stoating (the rain is literally bouncing off the ground, also used to describe very drunk people) and
• haar (a thick sea mist which means you can’t see a bloody thing, mostly seen in Skye and Edinburgh).

We do get some sun, occasionally, but don’t forget to pack a waterproof coat, that’s all I am saying. To quote Billy Connolly, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing, so get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little.

5. The really ‘Scottish’ things you shouldn’t miss

Let’s start with the really Scottish stuff you want to do shall we?

See a Highland Coo

The ‘Helian Coo’ is an icon of Scotland – so much our tourist board, Visit Scotland, have renamed Tuesday as ‘ #coosday ’ – check out the hashtag on Instagram for much cuteness! A photograph of our fluffy gentle monsters will be high up on your list, don’t worry you will see them everywhere.

One of my favourite places to get up close and personal with a coo is on the slopes of Conic Hill above Loch Lomond – you also get a brilliant view of the loch, win win. Did you know that our actual national animal of Scotland is a Unicorn? Yes really. 

Dance with a man in a kilt  

Scotland’s national dress is actually rather good and whether yer man is a Skinny Malinky long legs or knobbly of the knee, the kilt turns a Scot into a ScotsMAN and it really does turn every lady slightly wobbly – see Outlander for evidence.

Sadly kilts aren’t worn by men at all times, but the best place to see kilts are at weddings, ceilidhs (Scottish dances) and formal events – so try and get yourself invited to one (or gatecrash, the more the merrier!) 

Drink whisky

The ‘water of life ‘is behind many of our late nights (and our jovial nature) so you have to give it a try. There are over 300 whisky distilleries across Scotland – there really is a style for everyone.

Read my guide to Scottish Whisky , my guide to The Isle of Islay and how to discover the whiskies of Speyside .

Tried a few and really don’t like whisky? There are also over 130 breweries and a plethora of gin producers. Don’t forget that whisky in Scotland has no E – and you will be corrected instantly, it is a matter of pride.

Avoid the midges

A small biting fly, midges appear in humungous clouds just as you want to enjoy the sunshine and are the bane of our west coast summers. You can avoid them by visiting Scotland in the offseason, or by staying on the east coast or south Scotland. You can protect yourself from them somewhat with Smidge spray and head nets.

It is also worth watching out for ticks and clegs (massive horseflies) if you are out exploring the countryside in summer. 

We love haggis so much in Scotland that we eat it for breakfast. The trick is to try and not think about what you are eating (just like black pudding) and forget it is all the bits of a sheep you’d normally thrown away, wrapped up in the stomach.

If you really can’t face it (and its absolutely delicious so you are missing out) there are veggie versions which are just as good – and some say even better. Haggis is usually served with neeps (turnip) and tatties (potato). 

More traditional foods to try in Scotland

Stock up on Irn Bru

Drunk too much whisky? The Scottish hangover cure is a fried breakfast and a can of Irn Bru a lurid orange and sickly sweet fizzy juice. It is an acquired taste (and since they reduced the sugar content, even more so) but it works marvellously the day after the night before.

Hear Bagpipes

Some people love them but stay away from them if you have a hangover. It is truly painful.

7. Choose the best time to visit Scotland 

So, it is going to rain – but are you wondering when the best time to visit Scotland is? Whilst the answer should be ‘anytime!’ but in terms of climate, the best time to visit Scotland is in spring from March to May and autumn from September to October.

Here is how to visit Scotland in Spring .

Scotland’s weather is highly unpredictable and you whilst you can still experience four seasons in one day (including snow in March) spring and autumn weather in Scotland is usually the most stable.

I rarely travel in Scotland in Summer – most of my photographs on this site are taken in spring/autumn and even in winter too! Go on think about it, how to visit Scotland in Autumn and Winter .

Travelling in summer in Scotland does means dealing with midges – tiny biting black flies/ You can’t avoid them, but you can beat them – pick up the best insect repellent for the Scottish midge ‘ Smidge ’. 

Sadly, midgies are worst in the early evening – just as you want to sit out on the lochside with that sundowner drink.

8. Learn to drive in Scotland 

Unless you are planning on booking a coach trip or Scottish Highland’s tour, the best way of seeing Scotland is by car – either on a road trip or making yourself a base for a week and exploring. Visit Scotland have a great wee guide to driving in Scotland , but I’d recommend brushing up on the speed limits, roundabouts, road signs and these tips: 

• Keep LEFT – or you will cause an accident. 
• Understand how to drive on a single track road – off the main motorways and ‘A’ routes many of the roads in Scotland are single lane – that is just one lane for cars moving in both directions. There are passing places to let people past both in front of you – and it is worth remembering – from behind. Don’t frustrate a local by not letting them past. 
• Scotland might look small, but not everything takes an hour to get to – because of the aforementioned single track roads and traffic jams caused by sheep, coos, goats, cyclists and campervans, add an extra hour to the journey time on google maps, just in case. 
• Acknowledge your fellow drivers – a wave, a thank you or let someone past is much appreciated. 
• The Highlands of Scotland are renowned for not having a 3g or even in some places a mobile signal, you will need actually need a paper map in Scotland. 

9. Using public Transport in Scotland

Ferries in scotland.

To get to Scotland’s islands you will need to catch either ferry run by Caledonian McBrayne (affectionately known as Calmac) to visit the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides , or Pentland Ferries / Northlink ferries to Visit Orkney and Shetland.

If you want to head to Harris & Lewis, Mull or Islay in summer it is worth booking way in advance of travelling. 

Trains – Scotrail

The trains are run by Scotrail and will take you to all the major cities, along with a few scenic routes such as the West Highland Line to Fort William and Mallaig, across the Glenfinnan (or Harry Potter) Viaduct. The best value tickets are released 12 weeks in advance. Book your train tickets with trainline.com *.

Most bus services outside of the city are run by Stagecoach . They have an app with a route planner.

10. The food you need to try

Scottish food isn’t all deep-fried mars bars, steak pies, fish and chips and curries – although you must try a Glasgow Chicken Tikka Masala!

Here are my favourite restaurants in Scotland

More Scottish food to try

Why not try?

• A square sausage and tattie scone roll – a breakfast staple for Glaswegians, this is a fried beef sausage (made in a loaf shape and sliced) with a flat potato cake on top. Served in a fluffy white morning roll. 
• Scottish prawns – otherwise known as langoustines, Scottish prawns are huge and are served in their shells, hot or cold, and usually come with a big bowl of salty chips.
• Tablet – like fudge? You will love tablet. Your teeth won’t as tablet is sugary, buttery, crumbly deliciousness – and addictive.
• Cullen Skink – Scotland’s most famous soup, Cullen Skink is a delicious soup of potato, onion, smoked haddock, bay leaves, chicken stock, cream and black pepper. The best place to try Cullen Skink is in the town where it was first made, Cullen on the Moray Firth .
• Smoked salmon – served ‘hot smoked’ – which is cooked, or ‘smoked’ which is raw, Scottish salmon is the best in the world, imo. Just add bread and butter, or scrambled eggs. 
• Porridge – the traditional Scottish breakfast of oats soaked in milk is an acquired taste, especially if you have it with salt (urgh) – it’s much better if you add honey, jam, or even whisky. However, a breakfast of porridge is guaranteed to will set you up for the day – and probably the next day too.
• Crab claws –   especially from the seafood shack in Ullapool. Grab a bench and tuck in.

If you are anything like me, food is a major part of why I visit a new place. Before I travel anywhere I make a list of restaurants, cafes, bars and distilleries I have to visit.

Over the years I have tried and tested lots of restaurants in Scotland (and have many ‘on the list’ still to visit) and I have popped them all on a google map of all my recommended places to eat and drink in Scotland – from Michelin-starred restaurants to a lobster shack on the beach – download it and start planning your trip around where you want to eat! T

The food in Scotland is amazing – fresh seafood, incredible beef, lamb and game, an inventive veggie and vegan scene – and specialities from all over the world.

If you have anywhere to recommend not on the map, please drop me a comment!

• Download the map of my favourite places to eat in Scotland

11. Understanding the Scots language 

From the road signs to the way we name our mountains, language is a huge part of what makes Scotland, Scotland. There is even a day celebrating Scotland’s national poet – despite (although probably because of) Burns’ poetry was often about what he got up to in the bedroom. 

In all seriousness, you will probably spend your time in Scotland going “what!?” rather a lot. This is because Scots have three languages – Scots, Gaelic and English (which will still sound like Scots). Just politely ask for clarification. 

Scottish Gaelic is still part of life in the Outer Hebrides and western Scotland, and Scots is becoming increasingly popular – many of the words you will hear come from Scots. Some good ones to know describe being drunk… blootered, stoating, steamin, jaked… ahem. Not that you will ever get stottin in Scotland. Honest.

Mines a Bunnahabhain if you fancy joining me for a whisky! 

Ready to start planning your trip to Scotland? Let’s go!

Love, from Scotland x

The travel blogger and photographer behind Love from Scotland

Wednesday 9th of August 2023

If we wanted to hike the 117 mile trail from Fife in a week, is there any sort of lodging available each night, or is it camping on your own, only?

Planning A Trip To Scotland – The Ultimate Guide

Now you’re thinking of discovering Scotland – excellent idea! With its rugged landscapes, mystical castles, rich history and friendly people, Scotland is a destination that is attracting more and more travellers. But preparing for your Scottish adventure requires some key information, and our local advisors are here to guide you and answer any questions you may have! Off you go!

When should you leave for Scotland?

Inevitably, this is a question you ask yourself very quickly before booking your holiday… The best time to go to Scotland depends on your preferences:

-If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful countryside, spring and autumn are ideal.

-If you’re looking for cultural excitement and long days, opt for summer.

-If you enjoy winter landscapes and festivities, winter is the season for you.

For more details, read our articles When to go to Scotland and Climate in Scotland.

When should you plan your trip?

Plan ahead! That’s the key word here, because Scotland is a destination with the wind in its sails. Anticipating by booking early is the best way to get the best accommodation, the best rooms, the best rates on activities and to be sure of having availability for car hire.

-For a July or August departure, we recommend booking no later than March and ideally, where possible, from the previous September.

-For a departure in May or June , we recommend booking no later than March and ideally, where possible, as early as January.

-For a departure from January to April or from September to December , it is less important to plan ahead, and booking a month in advance is conceivable (except during the end-of-year festive period).

Should you organise your trip yourself or go through an agency?

It depends on your profile, your desires and your constraints. Here are some of the main reasons to use a local travel agency:

1. You don’t want to miss your trip

A local agency has intrinsic expertise in places, seasonal events and places less frequented by mass tourism. It will be able to guide you to hidden gems that most tourist guides don’t mention.

2. A tailor-made trip that’s just like you

Rather than following a standard itinerary, a local agency will listen to you to understand who you are, what you like and dislike, and what you are looking for in a trip, so as to create a tailor-made trip based on your interests.

3. You want to save time:

Organising a trip can be time-consuming. A local agency takes care of bookings, itineraries and logistics, so you can relax and look forward to your next adventure.

4. Access to exclusive activities/services

Local agencies like ours often have close relationships with hotels, restaurants and activity providers, which can result in exclusive experiences, upgrades or travel benefits.

5. Local assistance:

In the event of a problem, emergency or simply a question, it’s reassuring to know that you have a local contact you can rely on, who speaks the language and knows the particularities of the region.

6. Positive economic impact:

By choosing a local agency, you directly support the country’s economy, creating a more sustainable and responsible form of tourism.

Local agencies are often better informed about local conditions, whether it’s the weather, roads or events. They can therefore guide you safely throughout your trip.

8. Authenticity:

Instead of a standardised experience, a local travel agency immerses you in the heart of Scottish culture, allowing you to experience and feel Scotland authentically.

9. Practical advice:

From recommendations on the best times to visit certain sites, to tips on how to avoid crowds or take advantage of local festivities, a local agency is a mine of practical information.

10. Peace of mind:

Knowing that every detail of your trip has been meticulously planned by a local expert gives you invaluable peace of mind, allowing you to make the most of every moment.

How long should I allow for a trip to Scotland?

You’ve decided on the period of your trip, and now you’re wondering how long you should allow to discover Scotland. Once again, it all depends on what you want to discover. From a few days to several weeks, each duration has its own charm. But in our opinion, a trip worthy of the name requires at least 8 days.

For a quick overview: 3 to 5 days

If you don’t have much time, concentrate on a few highlights. Edinburgh, the capital, deserves at least two days for its iconic sights such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat. Add a day to escape into the countryside and discover the Borders or Loch Lomond and the Trossachs: a very short break, but one that will give you a tantalising glimpse of what Scotland has to offer. Another very interesting option is to head for the Isle of Arran, known for being a condensed version of what Scotland has to offer. Check out our 3 to 5-day tour ideas.

For longer exploration: 7 to 10 days

This length of time allows you to add destinations such as Glasgow, the Isle of Skye, Harris and Lewis, the Cairngorms and, of course, a few whisky distilleries. You’ll have time to experience Scotland in greater depth, visit less touristy sites and soak up the local culture. But that’s not enough to do the whole tour! Check out our ideas for 7- to 10-day tours.

For complete immersion: 2 to 3 weeks

If you’re lucky enough to have two to three weeks, Scotland is yours! In addition to the destinations mentioned above, explore the Orkney Islands, visit the deserted beaches of the Outer Hebrides and take in the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms. You’ll also have time to attend local festivals, discover Scottish cuisine and meet the locals. Check out our ideas for 2 to 3 week tours.

Follow the local rhythm: Scotland is a country where you can relax, take your time, enjoy the scenery and spend time with the locals. Don’t try to see everything, but rather live each experience to the full.

Classic itineraries:

-3 days: Edinburgh or Glasgow, and surrounding areas: Loch Lomond or the Borders region

-8 days: Edinburgh and/or Glasgow, Fort William and the Highlands.

-10 days: Add the Isle of Skye to the 8-day itinerary.

-15 days: Head for the Isle of Skye or Harris and Lewis, or explore the North Coast 500.

-21 days: Explore the Highlands, Orkney, Shetland and the Hebrides in depth.

How much should you budget?

Unless money isn’t an issue for you (which we hope it isn’t), preparing for a trip will require some financial planning. So how much should you budget for a Scottish holiday? Here’s an overview of the costs to anticipate.

Transport :

Plane: Depending on your point of departure and the season, a return flight to Scotland can vary greatly. To get the best rates, book in advance and be flexible about your dates. From Paris to Glasgow or Edinburgh, return flights in low season (October to April) average between £100 and £200. In high season (May to September), a return flight can cost up to £400.

Train: a return train ticket from Paris to Edinburgh will cost you on average between £100 and £400, depending on the season and how far in advance you travel.

Internal transport: If you plan to hire a car, expect to pay between £50 and £100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle. Don’t forget fuel and insurance. Otherwise, the train and bus network is excellent, although fares can rise during the high season.

Accommodation :

Youth hostels: Around £20 to £30 per night in a dormitory.

Comfortable Bed & Breakfasts: Between £100 and £140 per night for a double room, often with a full Scottish breakfast.

Hotels : Rates start at 80 euros and can reach several hundred euros for top-of-the-range establishments.

Meals: A meal in an average pub or restaurant costs between £25 and £35. Gourmet restaurants are obviously more expensive.

Drinks: A pint of beer costs an average of £5, and a whisky tasting starts at £10.

Activities :

Entrance to castles and attractions: Prices vary, but expect to pay between 10 and 20 euros for most sites. Consider the Explorer Pass if you plan to visit several historic sites.

Miscellaneous:

Souvenirs: Tartan, cashmere, whisky, shortbread and other typical souvenirs can add to your budget. Define how much you want to spend on these purchases to avoid impulse spending.

Gratuities: Gratuities are not compulsory in Scotland, but are appreciated for good service.

Tips for saving money :

Travel out of season: By avoiding the high season (summer), you can take advantage of reduced accommodation and transport fares.

Eat like a local: Pubs and fish and chips are often more affordable, but for gourmets, bear in mind that fish and seafood are delicious and that Scottish gastronomy is much richer and more surprising than you might think. For more information on local gastronomy, see our dedicated article.

Opt for free activities: access to nature is free, so make the most of it!

In conclusion, the question of budget for a trip to Scotland will depend on your choices and your style of travel. Whether it’s a budget trip or a luxury break, Scotland offers a range of options to suit all budgets. Plan ahead, set your priorities and make the most of every moment in this magical country!

How do I get there?

Most travellers arrive at Edinburgh or Glasgow airports. Ferries are also available from Ireland and mainland Europe. Trains have recently become popular, with journeys from Paris taking between 7.30 and 9.30 hours and tickets costing around £350. Once you’re in Scotland, there are a number of scenic train routes to take you to different parts of the country and enjoy the scenery. Discover our ideas for train holidays: the Highlands by train.

What should you pack?

Pack warm, waterproof clothing, a pair of good walking shoes and electrical adaptors. Here’s a list of 10 essentials to pack for a trip to Scotland, taking into account the country’s fickle weather and popular activities:

-Waterproof clothing: A waterproof jacket and trousers will be essential. Rain can come at any time of year in Scotland.

-A good pair of walking shoes: Whether you’re exploring the cities or hiking in the Highlands, comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must.

-Scarf, hat and gloves: Even in summer, the weather can be chilly, especially in the mountains or on the coast.

-Electrical adapter: Scotland uses UK-style plugs, so make sure you have an adapter to charge your devices.

-Bug spray: Particularly if you’re visiting during the summer months, these little insects can be a nuisance, especially in the Highlands. (How to avoid them)

-Layers of clothing: Given the changeable weather, favour the layering system to add or remove layers depending on the temperature.

-Daypack: To carry your essentials when out and about, whether in town or on a hike.

-Camera and binoculars: You’ll want to capture the stunning scenery and perhaps observe wildlife from a distance.

-Travel guide or map: Even in the digital age, having a physical guide or map can be useful, especially in areas where the signal is weak.

-Sun protection: Yes, even in Scotland! When the sun is shining, especially at high altitudes or near water, it’s important to protect yourself.

With these essentials in hand, you’ll be well prepared to make the most of your trip! And for a trouble-free trip, leave with peace of mind by entrusting the organisation of your trip to our specialist advisers.

How do I hire a car in Scotland?

It’s best to book in advance. Make sure you have an international permit if necessary. There are many car hire companies, the best known being Arnold Clark and Avis.

What are the different types of accommodation in Scotland?

B&Bs, hotels, hostels, gîtes, campsites and bothies.

The choice of accommodation plays a crucial role. Here’s an overview of the different options available to help you find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

1. Hotels :

From luxury hotels to simple family-run establishments, Scotland offers a wide range of hotels. In major cities such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, you’ll find international chain hotels, as well as charming boutique hotels set in historic buildings.

2. Bed & Breakfast (B&B):

One of the most traditional forms of accommodation in Scotland, B&Bs offer a more personal experience. Often run by families, they offer comfortable rooms and a full Scottish breakfast to get the day off to a good start.

3. Youth hostels:

Perfect for travellers on a budget or those looking for a social atmosphere, youth hostels are plentiful, especially in tourist areas. They generally offer dormitories, but sometimes also private rooms.

4. Holiday rentals :

If you’re planning a longer stay or travelling in a group, renting a house or flat can be a sensible option. It also gives you the freedom to cook and live at your own pace.

5. Bothies :

These traditional mountain huts, often in remote locations, offer basic shelter for hikers. They are usually free, but expect very basic facilities and remember to respect the code of use for bothies.

6. Camping and caravanning:

For those who like to sleep under the stars, Scotland has many well-equipped campsites. What’s more, the “right to roam” often allows wild camping, as long as you follow the Scottish countryside code.

7. Unusual accommodation :

For a truly unique experience, why not sleep in a castle, an old prison, a lighthouse or even a tree house? Scotland is full of unusual accommodation to make your stay memorable.

8. Self-catering cottages:

Located in the countryside or small villages, these cottages offer a peaceful setting, often with a traditional touch. They’re the perfect option for a rural escape.

Tips for choosing your accommodation :

Plan ahead: popular accommodation, especially in high season, can be booked months in advance. Our advisors are in direct daily contact with hotels and B&Bs, so take advantage of their expertise!

Trust our local advisers: they travel the country all year round and know the best accommodation to recommend and the worst to avoid! 

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Perfect scotland itinerary.

Scotland is an Incredible, Wild, Historic, Mystical Country that Just Begs to be Visited. If Scotland is Calling you, I’ve got the Perfect Scotland Itinerary for You.

The perfect scotland itinerary – discover the best things to do in scotland on this incredible road trip.

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You’re Going to Scotland!!!

So you’ve been bitten by the “Scotland Bug” and you’re ready to plan your trip! Great choice! Scotland is an incredible country with a deep, rich history, culture, and loads of whisky distilleries! You’ll be able to see hundreds of historic sites, abbeys , castles, sheep, highland cows, and even more stunning scenery. Although a relatively small country, there are so many places to see in Scotland, that it can seem overwhelming. But fear not, I have broken down this Scotland itinerary into seven days of pure Scottish awesomeness! If you’re wondering what to see in Scotland, but feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Half the fun of visiting somewhere new is planning what you’ll see, do, eat and wear. But it’s also overwhelming. Be sure to read through this itinerary and it’s accompanying posts on the Isle of Skye , Edinburgh , Inverness , and Glasgow to give you an idea of what you want to see, where your priorities are and a few options on what you want to include or exclude from your personal Scotland itinerary.

Scotland Itinerary – Wanderlust Guide

If you want to visit Scotland, but would rather take the work out of planning your trip, consider using my Wanderlust Guide Scotland Itinerary. It takes the stress out of planning and takes you day by day through the highlands and lowlands of Scotland, showing you as much of the country as possible while leaving plenty of time to enjoy your trip. 

Planning a Trip to Scotland

You’re ready to start planning your Scotland trip, great! Let’s talk about what to pack, where to go in Scotland, and where to stay. 

Packing for Scotland

Scotland is a gorgeous country…love it to death, but can we talk about the weather ? You’re not going to Hawaii ok, so plan accordingly!

The weather in Scotland can be…unpredictable, at best! I would pay no mind to any weather forecast you have previously looked at. The skies can change on a dime and surprise you for better or worse. Chances are, no matter what time of year you go to Scotland that you will have rain and it will be chilly during some part of your trip. Having layers and waterproof gear is essential.

Follow this   Scotland Packing List to be sure you have the best gear!

What to wear in Scotland:

• Waterproof Shoes
• Blanket Scarf

Planning Your Route

One of the best ways to see Scotland is by car or having your own vehicle. Taking a tour is great and stress-free, but Scotland self drive tours can be economical and a ton of fun. The country is easy to navigate, and it just takes a bit of planning and effort.  Try to stay organized when planning your Scotland Itinerary. I love using Google Maps, or Phone Apps like TripIt or Roadtrippers to plan out my itinerary and driving route before I leave. This is especially helpful if you won’t have cell service or have bad service, which is entirely likely in Scotland, especially as you get to the highlands. It’s great to have an offline option for keeping your trip organized. It helps to keep all your flight itineraries, rental car confirmation numbers, driving directions and hotel addresses all in one place and looking tidy. It’s great if you have to go back and log expenses as well!

Getting to Scotland

The cheapest flights into Scotland can usually be found to Edinburgh or Glasgow, but be sure to check other, smaller airports such as Aberdeen, where some budget airlines might fly into. Find out how I get insanely cheap flights to Europe ALL the time! 

Driving in Scotland

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

If you want to really see Scotland, you’ll have to rent a car. Coming from the US or mainland Europe, driving on the left can sound really scary, but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are a few tips:

• Think Left, Left, Left: Repeat the word “left” in your mind or out loud several times before you drive and while you’re starting out. Close your eyes and visualize yourself on the left. These seem kind of silly, but they will really help as you prepare to completely flip your usual driving autopilot brain backwards!
• When in doubt, follow the car in front of you.
• Roundabouts: Scotland and Europe, in general, is full of roundabouts. They are fantastic things that really help with the flow of traffic. In Scotland, they will curve to the left. Most of the time they consist of several lanes. be sure to follow the arrows or signs for which lane you need to be in. There can be anywhere from 2-6 or more exits on a roundabout and they can get pretty tricky. Just pay attention and you will be fine.
• Narrow Roads : Scotland is full of narrow roads with stone walls on either side. It’s an effort, but be sure to stay in your lane and not grazing the side of the wall or hedges.
• One Track Roads: You may come across quite a few one track roads, especially on the Isle of Skye. This means that there will be one lane shared by two directions of traffic. You will see “passing places” along all the roads where you must pull over and wait for cars to pass if you see them. Always pull over to the left. Never cross the road to pull into a passing place located on the right.
• Watch for animals: There’s nothing more magical than being in a sheep traffic jam! Just be sure to give them the right of way and pay attention. Also, look out for deer!
• Insurance: With all of the narrow roads, stone walls, hedges, small parking spaces and new left driving orientation, I always recommend that you get the full insurance on a rental car.Alternatively, look into your credit card as some cards, such as Chase Sapphire offer full rental car insurance in foreign countries. Be sure to bring along proof of this for the rental car company.

One Week in Scotland Itinerary

There’s never enough time to explore Scotland and it could honestly take you a lifetime, but most people who write to me asking for advice only have around one week in Scotland. I’ve configured this itinerary for you to be able to see the best of Scotland in a week. 

Now that you’ve done all you can to prepare for getting to, driving in and packing for Scotland, it’s time to talk about where you’ll be heading! I’ve arranged these 7 days in Scotland to begin and end in Edinburgh , where most flights will take you to in Scotland, but you can start this itinerary from anywhere on the map, or skip, add, change direction and alter to your heart’s content!

Map of the Perfect Scotland Itinerary for 7 days

I’ve created this interactive map of your 7 days in Scotland with directions between cities included.

Get your free Scotland Travel Planner

Day one: edinburgh.

Edinburgh will most likely be your starting point on your journey around Scotland, if it’s not, feel free to skip ahead! Edinburgh is a beautiful city full of rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food! What I think I love most about Edinburgh is that old-world feel mixed with a quirky vibe that’s hard to describe.

There are some amazing Airbnb apartments right in the historic center of Edinburgh. When we stayed there we booked a very affordable place which had a patio overlooking Edinburgh Castle. It was incredible and a highlight of our trip! My kids said they loved being able to look at “Hogwarts” haha! You can find that apartment here. 

Here is a list of affordable apartments in Edinburgh for families of 4-6! 

You could spend weeks wandering the streets of Edinburgh, but I’ve given you two days here, so get busy!

Here is a great detailed list of what to do in Edinburgh.   But here is a quick list to get you started:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Elephant House Cafe
• Victoria Street
• Calton Hill
• The Royal Mile
• St Giles Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Malt Whisky Trail

Day Two: Edinburgh & St. Andrews

Spend the night in Edinburgh, wake up and explore the city for about half a day. Finish up your Edinburgh list:

• Hike Arthur’s Seat for sunrise
• Holyrood Palace

Now that you’ve finished seeing Edinburgh, head to St. Andrews, it’s about an hour away from Edinburgh, known as a golf mecca and home to St. Andrews University which was founded in 1413, making it the 3rd oldest university in the UK, following only Oxford and Cambridge.

• St. Andrew’s Cathedral: Once the largest church in Scotland, St. Andrews Cathedral was a place of pilgrimage for Catholics during the medieval ages. It is in ruins now, but you can climb St. Rules tower and take in the views from the top.
• St. Andrews Links: Even if you’re not a golf enthusiast (I certainly am not), take a stroll along the cart paths and appreciate the famed course for its beauty and views.
• Blair Castle: This beautiful castle was just featured on an episode of Victoria and it’s right off the motorway, so stop if you have the time!

When you’ve had a taste for St. Andrews, begin your drive to Inverness. On your way, consider stopping at

Day Three: Inverness

Known as the capital of the highlands, Inverness is an ancient city with a long history. Home to Shakespeare’s infamous Macbeth and the stage for the Jacobite uprising and final defeat, Inverness will allow you to connect with the past like nowhere else.

I recommend stopping here for at least one night and giving yourself a full day to explore the surrounding areas. There are plenty of Airbnbs in the area, or you can even rent a camper van to hunt for Nessie yourself! 

Here is a list of affordable houses in the Inverness area

You should be able to see all of this in one day, but you can stay one more night here and finish in the morning, because you’ve got a big drive ahead of you tomorrow to the Isle of Skye . Read this in depth article about what to do in Inverness.   But here is a quick list:

• Culloden Battlefield
• Clava Cairns
• Urquhart Castle
• Cairngorms National Park

Day Four: Inverness and Drive to Isle of Skye

Finish up anything you missed in Inverness and begin the drive to the Isle of Skye . I prefer taking the northern route because it is the highest north that you will get in the highlands. If you’re there in the spring you will get a beautiful show from the purple heather blooming on the rolling hills. Just before you get to the Isle of Skye , stop at:

• Eilean Donan Castle

Take your time getting to Skye , but try to arrive before dark as you’ll be driving on one track roads at times, which can be tricky come nightfall, and riving over the Skye Bridge is something you’ll want to do in the daylight.

I recommend staying in Portree for the night as it is the capital of Skye and has great food and accommodations. This will be a great location for everything you’ll be doing tomorrow.

Day Five: Isle of Skye

Located on the west coast, The Isle of Skye, while becoming increasingly popular, is truly worth the drive! You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time once crossing the bridge onto the island life. While the island is small, there is much to see. I recommend staying here for at least two nights to give yourself a full day and maybe even two half days here. There are some fantastic Airbnbs on the Isle of Skye. Most of the homes are old shepherd cottages that are just adorable. We stayed in an old shepherd cottage near the Museum of Highland Life that had the most incredible sea view! I honestly didn’t want to leave. You can find our Airbnb here. 

Here is a list of affordable houses on the Isle of Skye

Wherever you stay, I HIGHLY recommend getting up at sunrise for your day on the Isle of Skye. The sunrise views just cannot be beat!  Read my Guide for Visiting the Isle of Skye . Here is a quick list of what to do:

• The Quiraing (catch the sunrise here!)
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Flora MacDonald Memorial Grave

You’ll probably want to spend another night on the Isle of Skye, since you’ll have a really full day and you don’t want to drive out of here at night!

Day Six: Isle of Skye and Drive to Glasgow

Wake up and finish anything on the Isle of Skye that you missed yesterday and start your journey to Glasgow. On your way there, stop at Glencoe and take in the beautiful scenery.

Day Seven: Glasgow

Spend half the day exploring Glawgow. Follow this Glasgow Local’s Guide . Then head to Stirling Castle and back to Edinburgh! I hope you fall in love with Scotland as much as I have and I hope this perfect Scotland itinerary will help you plan the perfect day trip! I’m always happy to help with trip planning. Connect with me on Facebook or Instagram if you need help! And check out The North Face on Zappos to get your Campshire gear ready for your trip of a lifetime to Scotland!

Scotland Itinerary FAQ

If you really want to explore Scotland, then anywhere between 7-10 days would be ideal. There are so many amazing places to visit and activities to do that you won’t want to miss out. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone looking for an amazing experience, Scotland has something for everyone.

7 days can give you enough time to see some of Scotland’s highlights, but if you have the opportunity to stay longer it is highly recommended. Some places in Scotland you may want to allocate more time for include: Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and Edinburgh.

Scotland offers something different all throughout the year. However, May is the best time to go in terms of weather. But if you’re looking to experience festivals, then August and September are great times to visit.

Wanderlust Crew

16 thoughts on “ perfect scotland itinerary ”.

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Hello, Any accommodations you would recommend in Scotland? We are looking at a week in the summer and have just started looking. If we spend a few nights in Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Isle Of Skye, and Inverness, did you book Airbnb’s in each place? Thanks, Kate

Hey Kate! We mostly stayed in Airbnbs but we stayed in an amazing hotel in Edinburgh. Our room was bigger than my house! There were two big bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a huge kitchen and living room. I booked it with my hotel points but it was only about $175/night in downtown Edinburgh which I thought was awesome. You can find it here: https://booki.ng/2H9IOqH

When we went to Edinburgh again, the hotel was booked so we stayed in this Airbnb which was also awesome https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23706638 a lot smaller though!

On the Isle of Skye, Airbnbs will be your best bet. There are quite a few. I’ve stayed in several and also several hotels there, but this is by far my favorite airbnb. We didn’t want to leave. the views were incredible! https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21872504

We stayed here near Stirling Castle https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9815972

I hope this helps!

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

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Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Scotland » Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide

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Dreaming of your first Scotland trip? Let me show you exactly how to plan a trip to Scotland like a pro!

This post about how to plan a trip to scotland for the first time was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Have you dreamed about visiting the land of tartan, shortbread, and Braveheart for years? It’s time to start planning a trip to Scotland to turn those dreams into a reality!

Whether you’re visiting on a city break in Edinburgh or a road trip through the Highlands, there’s so much to see. Scotland boasts over 1,500 castles, more than 30,000 lochs, and six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

So, figuring out how to plan a trip to Scotland can be challenging!

This easy guide will take you through where to go in Scotland, the top attractions and activities, and everything else you need to know for a smooth trip.

Once you’ve ticked off all the steps of this Scotland planning guide, you can relax and enjoy your trip. Ideally, with a wee dram of whisky or a piece of Scottish tablet fudge!

15-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Scotland

Step 1: check your passport and visa requirements for scotland.

The last thing you want to do is go to the effort of meticulously planning a Scotland trip and realizing too late that one of your kids’ passports has expired!

Scotland is a country in the United Kingdom, so it’s not part of the European Union or the Schengen Zone. The UK’s rules for entry for US and Canadian citizens are more lax than in the EU.

Most tourists will not need a Visa and you only need two months validity left on your passport.

Step 2: Figure out the Length of Your Scotland Trip

If you’re traveling long haul, you’re probably not looking for tips on how to visit Scotland for less than three days! Four nights is the minimum for a city break to Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh, for example.

One week is enough to visit Edinburgh plus a couple of places in the Highlands and islands. You could book a multi-day tour to the Isle of Skye or Fort William and Loch Ness or rent a car.

Two weeks or more is ideal if this is your first time in Scotland and you want to take an epic road trip. You will probably need to set aside at least two weeks if you want to figure out how to plan a trip to Scotland and Ireland without spending your whole trip in the car!

Step 3: Research the Best Time to Travel to Scotland

For the ideal balance between pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation, the best times to travel to Scotland are the shoulder seasons of April – May and September – October.

Scotland in summer has the warmest weather with average temperatures of 59-63 °F/15-17°C with heatwaves growing more common. 

August is the festival season in Edinburgh. Some travelers will love the cultural experience, but others won’t love the crowds and expensive accommodations.

New Year (named ‘Hogmanay’ in Scotland) is an important holiday. You can also ski in the Cairngorms in winter.

Step 4: Choose Where to Visit in Scotland

There are so many amazing places to go in Scotland! Here is a breakdown of all the top travel destinations:

• Big Cities: Edinburgh and Glasgow
• Small Cities: St Andrews and Stirling
• National Parks: Loch Lomond and The Trossachs and the Cairngorms
• Road Trip Routes: North Coast 500, Southwest Coast 300, and North East 250
• Popular Islands: The Isle of Skye, Mull, Arran, Iona, Lewis and Harris, and Islay
• Popular Highland Areas: Loch Ness, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Fort William

Looking for Scotland vacation ideas off the beaten path? Stick to the Scottish Borders region or visit an island or city not listed like Jura, Tiree, or Aberdeen.

Step 5: Create a Budget for Your Vacation in Scotland

Your budget for your trip to Scotland will depend on many factors. When you’re planning to travel, how many people you are traveling will, and your travel style will all play a role.

Budget Your Trip has determined that two people traveling in Scotland for one week spend, on average, around $2,613 per person.

Planning a trip to Scotland is usually less expensive than in other Western European countries like Switzerland or Germany. However, it can be more expensive than Portugal or Italy.

Step 6: Book Your Flights to Scotland

The best way to travel to Scotland for most North American travelers is, of course, by plane!

Approximately 10 cities across the US and Canada offer direct flights to Edinburgh, mostly from the East Coast. There are also tons of flights from various London airports to Edinburgh, so that might be a good layover option.

Step 7: Plan the Best Itinerary for Scotland

The best itinerary for your Scotland trip will depend on what you like to do and where you’re going! Here are some Scotland itineraries to suit different types of travelers:

• How to plan a golf trip to Scotland – Visit Edinburgh (plenty of golf courses in the city!) and St. Andrews for the oldest golf course in the world
• How to plan a trip to Scotland with kids – Visit Edinburgh, Loch Ness, and ride the Jacobite steam train from Harry Potter across Glenfinnan Viaduct
• How to plan a whisky trip to Scotland – Take a small group tour to the Isle of Islay from Edinburgh or hire a car and drive up to Speyside
• How to plan a first-time trip to Scotland – Visit Edinburgh for three days and then rent a car and drive up to Fort William and Glenfinnan through Glen Coe. Visit the Isle of Skye for two or three days and then drive across to Loch Ness. Drive back down to Edinburgh through Stirling

Step 8: Book Accommodation in Scotland

Currently, Scotland does not charge a tourist tax when you book accommodation like Italy or Spain. However, there is a Visitor Levy bill in parliament so that may have changed by the time you visit!

The best places to stay in Scotland vary between the cities and the countryside. Edinburgh and Glasgow have a range of boutique and branded hotels and hostels. 

Looking for where to stay in Scotland on the islands or Highlands? Guesthouses and cute Bed and Breakfasts are usually the best options for price and experience.

On road trips, you often need to stop overnight somewhere with no town nearby. Short-term rentals and glamping are great places to stay.

RVs can also be cost-effective on road trips. Just remember to book a small vehicle (Scotland’s roads are narrow!) and stay overnight in campsites to help the local economy.

Step 9: Book a Rental Car and Ferries

While visiting Scotland’s cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, you definitely won’t need a car! Buses (Glasgow also has a metro) are super easy to use. Just use a contactless credit or debit card to pay the driver.

You can use trains to travel between towns in Scotland’s Lowlands and buses between larger towns in the Highlands. 

However, if you are traveling for a week or longer in the Scottish Highlands, it makes sense to book a group tour or rent a car. 

Book a small car to navigate Scotland’s very narrow roads! And pay a little extra for an automatic car if you’re not used to manual. They are the standard in Scotland, so that’s what you’ll get if you don’t request an automatic.

Organize ferry tickets as far in advance as possible. Especially during busy seasons! Sometimes, only one or two ferries travel between ports every day.

Step 10: Purchase Attraction Tickets and Plan Activities

It’s better to purchase some more popular attraction tickets like those to Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness tours in advance. 

Consider an Edinburgh City Pass if you plan on visiting lots of ticketed attractions during your trip. But keep in mind that many Edinburgh museums and galleries, like the National Museum of Scotland, are free to visit.

Check out the Historic Scotland or National Trust for Scotland memberships if you plan on visiting lots of castles and other historic sites.

Want to travel on the Jacobite steam train in the summer? Book your tickets in January! That’s not an exaggeration – this is one of the most popular attractions in Scotland.

Step 11: Buy Travel Insurance for Your Vacation to Scotland

The best time to purchase travel insurance for your trip to Scotland is right after you book your flights. This will ensure every penny you spend on your trip is protected.

But as long as you buy travel insurance before you step foot in the airport, your health and belongings are protected.

Check with your credit card provider as they often include travel insurance as a benefit!

Step 12: Figure out Phone, Credit Card, and Currency

Speaking of credit cards, make sure you have a travel-friendly Mastercard or Visa payment card. American Express isn’t accepted in many places across Scotland, but credit cards in general are widely accepted.

Since Scotland is part of the UK, the currency is Great British Pound (£). Bring some cash to make purchases when making small purchases in more remote parts of Scotland.

Make sure you can use your phone abroad too! Check your phone plan before traveling and if it doesn’t include international coverage, get an eSIM for the UK.

Step 13: Watch Movies and Read Books Set in Scotland

Planning a trip to Scotland doesn’t stop once you’ve booked everything! Continue the excitement by watching movies or TV shows and reading books set in Scotland.

Of course, re-watching the Harry Potter movies with your kids is essential before a trip to Scotland. The book series or TV adaptation of Outlander is great for after they’ve gone to bed!

Step 14: Pack the Right Outfits for Traveling in Scotland

You should always prepare for rain no matter when you are visiting Scotland. Pack a light raincoat in summer and a warm parka in winter. 

Layers are a great idea because the weather can change dramatically from day to day.

Sturdy boots are essential for pounding the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. Hiking boots are a must in the Highlands or islands.

Step 15: Go To Scotland!

The only thing left to do is to board a plane and prepare yourself for a magical vacation in the lush, storied country of Scotland.

Save some space in your suitcase to pick up a wool sweater, tartan scarf, and lots of shortbread!

Planning a Trip to Scotland FAQs

What month is the best time to visit scotland.

The shoulder season is the best time to visit Scotland for the ideal balance of mild weather, cheaper accommodation, and fewer crowds. 

Winter nights are very long. Summer is extremely crowded, with roads in remote areas clogged with RVs and festivals in the cities.

How many days is enough for Scotland?

Three to four days is enough for Scotland if you just want to visit Edinburgh. This is enough time to explore the city and take a day trip.

If you want to explore parts of the Scottish countryside too, stay for at least one week. 10 days to two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit Edinburgh, Glasgow, the national parks, the Highlands near Fort William, and the Isle of Skye.

How far in advance should I book a trip to Scotland?

Three to four months is far enough in advance to plan a trip to Scotland if you are not visiting in the summer. If you are visiting in the summer, six to nine months is preferable.

Planning a Trip to Scotland Wrap-Up

This step-by-step guide to planning a trip to Scotland is foolproof. 

There’s no way you will accidentally skip one of the best destinations in Scotland or make a common travel mistake. 

Your Scotland trip planning efforts will all feel worth it looking up at Edinburgh Castle from the Royal Mile or driving through Glen Coe!

Looking for more Scotland travel resources? Check out 9 Best Edinburgh Hotels for Families Worth Booking , 13 Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train , and 13 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh by Train !

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Visiting Scotland: The Essential Guide On How To Plan Your Trip

• Published on: June 18, 2023

Visit Scotland and explore its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and abundant activities. Are you looking to plan your vacation to Scotland? With the abundance of information out there, it can be hard to make heads or tails of it all; especially if that info is second or third-hand. It's tough to decide where to go when to go, and how much it will cost.

Planning a trip to Scotland for the first time can be overwhelming. Don’t worry – I’m here to help you out ! Following Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s words, “A goal without a plan is just a wish” . 

This post provides you helpful tips for planning a trip to Scotland, especially if you visiting Scotland for the first time, so you can make the process smoother and free of stress. Get informed on how to make your journey effortless with this practical advice!

This site uses affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you use my links and make a purchase without incurring an additional fee yourself. Many thanks for supporting this website. Please see my legal page for more details.

Table of Contents

I am going to answer some questions you may have:.

• How to get to Scotland
• What is the most cost-effective way to travel to Scotland ?
• When to book?
• When is the best time to visit Scotland?
• How long should you spend in Scotland?
• How do I choose the accommodation ?
• Drive or not to drive?
• How to create the itinerary?

If you’re looking to take a trip to Scotland, the first step is to plan properly. There are many points of consideration, so it’s best to begin from the start and be prepared for your journey.

• How much time do you have
• What your budget is like
• Is there a special interest that brings you to Scotland?
• The places family and friends have recommended
• Is there a special event you want to attend in Scotland?

Depending on the type of trip you are planning, criteria such as cost, convenience and safety might be more or less important.

For example, if it is a special occasion like a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, you probably want to make sure it is extra special.

Visiting Scotland with your mum to show her where she was born is a one-of-a-kind experience!

And, if you just want to explore our beautiful country for hiking and whisky tasting, then it will be an unforgettable adventure.

If you are unsure about where to go on your journey, familiarise yourself with a Scotland map to get an overview of the location. Make a list of ideas for places and activities you would like to explore, and research events or festivals that appeal to your interests. This approach will help you prioritise what you want out of the trip and help make your experience more memorable.

When to start planning a trip to Scotland?

Before you embark on your journey, be sure to thoroughly research the entry requirements such as travel documents and Health Declaration for the country you plan to visit Scotland.

Here , you will get all information plus hassle-free the entire process.

If you’ve done some research, then you should already be aware of what season to visit.

June to September is a peak season in most places – whether locales far or near. This is when the weather is typically best and the tourists come out in full force.

To get the best out of your holiday in summer, it’s always advisable to plan a year in advance. So, if you’re aiming for July or August as your destination, make sure to book early and save yourself the hassle of last-minute planning.

Booking in advance is key to getting the best deal for your holiday. It may sound ludicrous, but it’s true – this place is really busy with travellers and if you want the most out of your budget, start planning early!

Summertime in Edinburgh & the Highlands are always bustling with tourists, locals and those attending annual festivals – thus resulting in increased prices.

Visiting Scotland in July and August means being here in the busiest months for this region, so travellers should prepare accordingly.

Waiting until the last minute to plan a journey is certainly doable, however, it may cost you more money and trouble. To avoid this, we recommend planning your trips ahead of time.

What is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

You must ask yourself if you like being around lots of people or not when planning a trip to Scotland.

During the summer months, Scotland can be quite bustling with different festivals and events.

Furthermore, some places in Scotland may even witness over-tourism. Therefore, it is important to consider all these factors before taking the plunge.

I thoroughly enjoy travelling around Scotland during May and June. Besides the lengthy day-lit hours (it gets darker at around 11 pm in June), these months also bring a lot of pleasant weather.

Not to mention, gardens are filled with blooms and woodlands become lush with green foliage during this time.

I’m especially fond of September and October, as the scenery during these months is breathtaking with the vibrant autumn foliage.

Additionally, it’s usually less crowded and warmer, so it makes for an ideal time to take a trip to Scotland.

To make your visit to Scotland as smooth as possible, it is advisable to avoid certain dates such as school holidays, breaks and Bank Holidays. 

Bank Holidays are mostly on Mondays, giving us an extended weekend. People usually plan to go away for a few days during this time.

If your holiday dates match with Scottish Bank Holidays, be prepared to face accommodation availability issues and overcrowded places . You can find the detailed dates here .

Once you’ve decided when you want to go, it’s time to book your flights.

Let me plan a custom travel itinerary made for YOU!

What is the cheapest way to travel to scotland.

Figuring out the perfect time to book a flight can be one of the most difficult tasks. However, if you take into account certain factors such as price fluctuations and availability, you’ll be able to get the most bang for your buck. 

As flight prices depend on many factors, some as simple as supply and demand, it’s important to compare airline deals against booking engines.  

Before finalizing your booking, it’s wise to read the small print. Some tickets may be cheaper but they could have more restrictive terms & conditions compared to others. Make sure you know what you’re agreeing to before committing!

The most cost-effective way to visit Scotland is to come during the off-season, which is from November to the end of March. Additionally, starting your trip during the week, rather than on the weekend, may also be more economical. 

Travelling to Scotland from abroad can be expensive, but taking the bus is often the most economical choice. Unfortunately, this option isn’t available if you’re coming from overseas. You could save a lot of money on your flight tickets by considering indirect routes, which may take you through less common destinations.

For instance, for travellers from the USA and Canada, cheaper flight options could include a stopover in Dublin (Ireland) or through Reykjavik (Iceland) rather than London.   

Here is a list of the most popular flight booking engines

Skyscanner is good for searching the best deals when you know your dates. You can also see the cheapest flight within a month of those dates, which works great when you can be flexible.

Kayak is a very flexible booking engine. You can search for specific dates or for dates flexible up to 3 days before and 3 days after a specific date. You can also search per weekend or within a monthly simply by specifying how long you want to stay at your destination.

With Kayak you can set up flight alerts and it will let you know whenever the price for a route goes up or down.

Kiwi is quite special in that it has a “nomad” search function. With the nomad tool you can enter all the cities you’d like to visit, along with how long you’d like to stay in each city, and Kiwi.com will work out the cheapest possible option. Kiwi lets you search a number of different departure cities and/or countries as well as a bunch of different destinations, all at the same time. It also offers a guarantee that protects you should you incur any flight delays, cancellations, or changes. Other than that, it also offers flexible search engines and a flight alert function.

Tip: If you already have an idea if your itinerary/ trip/ road trip it might make a sense and is sometimes cheaper to start and end your trip in different airports. For example, you can start your trip in Glasgow and finish it in Edinburgh.

Flying-free options

Whether you’re located in Europe, London, or somewhere else – getting away by ferry, train, bus and car can be overwhelming.

But no worries! I’m here to give you some useful tips and tools to make your journey more pleasant and stress-free.

Travelling by public transport is a cost-effective way to explore new places. It also offers more flexibility and spontaneity when you are planning for a trip, as it doesn’t need much time to get your bookings sorted out.

If you’re opting for a weekend away in Edinburgh from London, flying or driving doesn’t make the most sense.

Taking the train , which takes 4.5 hours, is usually the most comfortable option and will also get you there quickly.

If money’s tight, the overnight bus can be a great choice as tickets sometimes go as low as £20.

A leisurely ferry ride from Amsterdam to Newcastle provides an ideal, affordable way for families or groups of travellers from Germany, Belgium or Holland to reach Scotland.

It is a great option for a relaxed start to the journey and allows you to enjoy the scenery as well.

If you live in France or Belgium and are located near Eurostar station, such as Paris, Lille, Lyon, or Brussels, taking the train can be an excellent option for you due to its affordability when booked in advance (180 days). You may be pleasantly surprised by the price!

Travelling to Scotland from Paris can be a breeze, with an easy change in London. It takes just 8 hours with no airport hassle and gives you plenty of time for relaxation – such as reading, watching movies or taking naps.

Another option is to take an overnight train from London to Scotland. Whether you are travelling to London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen or Fort William, you will go there in comfort and enjoy a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Travelling by car

Travelling either with your own car or a rented vehicle has some advantages and disadvantages. I would recommend this option only to drivers who are experienced and confident driving on the other side of the road.

Advantages:

• Freedom- go as you please
• No advance booking
• Relatively low cost
• Easy to get to remote places
• Luggage space
• You can travel roads less travelled

Disadvantages:

• Long-distance trips can be stressful and exhausting
• Expensive parking prices. For instance, in Edinburgh 24 hours’ parking will cost you at least £30. On-street parking in the city centre is for a maximum of 4 hours.
• Often no parking spaces available
• Environmental issue
• Difficult to navigate within a city if you a) do not know the city b) if you are a first-time driver on the left-hand side

The most popular car rental in Scotland is Arnold Clark

Rentalcars.com is a comparison site to find a rental car. It compares hundreds of rental companies so you can find a good deal here. I would recommend reading the car rental reviews, fine print and T&Cs before the booking.

Travelling by train

Especially within UK and Europe, train travel is a good option when visiting neighbouring countries. Some of the benefits of train travel are:

• more space to move around
• easier to get some work done
• simply get on board, take off, and get out again at your destination
• more luggage allocation

I like Omio to book my train travels. It gives you a good overview of your transportation options from A to B. A train trip is an excellent way to explore Scotland. If you’re planning a trip, here are 9 steps to perfect your plan. 

How to choose accommodation?

Booking accommodation in Scotland is often overlooked by tourists or visitors. This can lead to difficulties as the region can be quite busy and there are limited options when it comes to where to stay.

Especially on islands and in remote places in the Highlands, it is sometimes not possible to stay in 4 or 5* hotels just because there are not many or not at all, to begin with.

Securing a place to stay should be the top priority. As mentioned before, during peak events like Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival (August) and Hogmanay (New Year), prices can skyrocket and it can be difficult to find accommodation.

Having worked at a destination management company for years, I know that to get the best value you must book your accommodations 6 months in advance.

Be sure to do your research and read the guide of common mistakes people make when booking hotel rooms.

During the off-season, there are rarely problems with accommodation unless there is a special event taking place like Up Helly Aa in Lerwick or Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

Before you book your accommodation, it is important to plan the details of your journey. Crafting an itinerary is especially helpful if you are taking a road trip and will be staying at multiple places.

Having a clear idea about where you need to go will help make reservations easier & more convenient.

When it comes to a place to stay, give your support to the Scottish economy by picking small local businesses over international chains. This way, you will also be contributing to the local community and engaging with its people more.

In my view, chain hotels may have the amenities you need, but lack the personalized experience that many travellers seek. They’re more generic and impersonal.

Taking the time to jot down what you need when choosing a place to stay is crucial. It helps ensure that you get the best fit for your needs and expectations.

• How much do you want to spend?
• An idea of what location you want to be in
• Accommodation type or character (castle, manor house, pub or perhaps a cottage)
• Uniqueness (a treehouse?)
• Amenities (like a pool or spa)
• Grading (2*, 3*, 4* or 5*)
• Do you need breakfast?
• Other recommendations?

When planning a city-based trip or if you are using one base for exploration, it is best to book your accommodation early so you have plenty of options to choose from.

Read detailed guide about ACOMMODATION IN SCOTLAND

Scotland itinerary planner

It can be quite overwhelming to find the best places to visit and activities to do when there is so much data available online.

However, with the right approach, you can narrow down your search and find exactly what you need.

Everyone needs to remember that time is limited when visiting Scotland. It’s definitely a good idea to explore as many places as possible, but it’s also essential to enjoy your stay and take the opportunity to relax.

Don’t be tempted to rush through your itinerary, ticking off a long list of attractions.

Therefore, leave some room for spontaneity or lazy days wandering in the countryside or through cobbled streets.

The best way to get organized is to create a spreadsheet or Google doc, or write it down in a notepad – whatever works for you.

Steps to create your itinerary;

Create headings for each day.

On Day 1 of your departure, please note that if you are travelling long-haul, such as from Canada or the USA, your arrival at your first night’s accommodation (car rental or any other activities) will be on Day 2.

If you’re travelling from overseas, consider jet lag. It’s better to have some lazy days until you can adapt to a different time zone and weather.

Other things to include:

How do you get from the airport to your hotel?

What time is the check-in at the hotel? For example, if you arrive in Glasgow at 8 am but check-in is at 2 pm, it might be worth contacting the hotel to let them know.

Could they possibly prepare your room earlier, or allow you to store your luggage at your accommodation until your check-in?

Tip: Some hotels, such as Travelodge, do not have the facilities to store luggage , so it’s better to check before going to the hotel. Your solution could be to store the luggage in a bus or train station.

If you rent a car , the problem is solved. If you rent a car at the airport, does the hotel you will stay in have parking and how much will it cost?

Check the opening times/days, costs, and whether advance booking is required for any attractions or activities you want to do or see.

Do you need to exchange currencies or get money from the ATM upon your arrival?

On your last day, what time is your return flight, and what time do you need to leave to get to the airport? Plan it carefully, as some airports may be very busy during peak season. Will you take a taxi or transfer ? If you need to drop off a rental car, consider the time required to do so.

Where should you visit in Scotland?

Thorough research is key for any successful planning, so take care to look beyond blogs and get your info from various sources.

Reading guidebooks, browsing social media forums and tapping into personal networks can give you useful insights.

Don’t forget to ask friends & family for their advice – they might have great ideas that could be beneficial!

Leave the bucket list aside and opt for a more leisurely and in-depth travel experience.

Rather than trying to visit multiple places in a short span of time, it’s better to get acquainted with one particular destination and take your time exploring it.

When you search the internet, you will often find a list of popular sites along the same route: Glasgow-Loch Lomond-Fort William-Isle of Skye-Inverness-Pitlochry-Edinburgh.

But do you know what lies behind each of these places? Let’s take Fort William as an example. The town itself is not that attractive, and I would say it is rather ugly.

What is great is the area around Fort William; the mountains ( Glencoe ), hiking paths, Munros, scenic drives and walks , and the scenic-route Jacobite train.

Unless you’re interested in activities like hiking, there’s really no need to visit Fort William.

Y ou should instead do your research and find something else that fits your needs better. Having knowledge is key when it comes to making the right decisions.

Want to get an authentic insight into life in Scotland? Read blog posts written by locals. Don’t fall prey to the numerous misguiding content on the internet about Scotland – often created by people who have stayed here for a week or two only and call themselves experts!

Unfortunately, some people tend to stick with the same routine and simply change locations each night. This doesn’t allow for a truly immersive experience or even the chance of relaxation.

That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and make sure that your holiday is the best it can be!

Add these items to a separate tab on the spreadsheet. When you feel you have enough material to build an itinerary, go to Google Maps and create a personal account (which is very easy if you have a Gmail email).

This feature allows you to pin the places you want to visit, allowing you to visualize how they fit together. You will also be able to see the distances between the places and get a brief overview of them.

Based on this, you are ready to build your itinerary in the spreadsheet. Group attractions or visits into the same areas, then choose two for each day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Combine activities such as hiking and visiting the castle with a culinary experience, including whisky tasting. Visit a museum and take some time to go shopping or listen to live music in the evening.

Maybe you can hire a local guide who can show you a road less travelled, less touristy, and more authentic. 

Maybe you want to attend a masterclass to learn more about whisky, or take a private golf lesson in the famous St Andrews, where Kate and Prince William met? Seek out slower and more meaningful experiences.

Your plan should also allow for some flexibility and be ready to adapt. Sometimes the weather can be unpredictable, so if there is heavy rain and you had planned for a hike, it is best to change the plan.

It is better to adapt and, for example, go for a whisky tasting or spend a nice evening in a pub with live music.

When I travel, I usually wander around the village or city on the first day and then go to a local tourist information office. I ask a local (e.g. hotel receptionist) for a dinner reservation or other recommendations. Maybe there was something going on in the town, or a good story I hadn’t heard.

Final thoughts

I hope the above will help you plan a visit to Scotland. Don’t stress yourself out about missing out; go slow!

Your holidays are the best time to enjoy and appreciate life; experience it and make it memorable.

Don’t follow the same path as everyone else. Have a more meaningful and positive impactful experience.

Move from being a passive traveller to an engaged socio-cultural ambassador. Make it yours.

Need help with your planning and itinerary?

Book one of my services for stress-free holidays!

My name is Kate and I created Scotland Itinerary Planning to give you those life-changing experiences right in the beautiful country I call home.

I’m proud to live in Edinburgh, Scotland , one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities. Living in Edinburgh has provided me a base to explore extensively around this magical little country.

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How to plan a trip to scotland: everything you need to know to visit scotland.

On the map, Scotland looks like a tiny country, and indeed it measures just over 30,000 square miles and is just short of 5.5 million people. Yet when you plan a trip to Scotland, it can be an overwhelming challenge to figure out where to begin! Too many cities, islands, mountains, valleys, castles and lochs to choose from; all of them are worth a stop, but it’s impossible to see them all, no matter how much time you have. How on Earth are you going to plan the perfect trip to Scotland?

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Before you get stuck into comparing itineraries, researching off-beat destinations or must-have experiences in Scotland, let me run you through the basics of how to plan a trip to Scotland in the first place.

This guide will give you advice on the best time to visit Scotland, how much time you should plan to spend here, some suggested itineraries for your trip, advice on how to get around Scotland, some recommended bus tours, how to choose your perfect activities, a few hiking tips and finally, a selection of where to stay in Scotland.

By the end of the guide, you will have all the tools to plan an amazing trip to Scotland. And don’t forget, with my expertly designed Scotland itineraries you can hit the road running!

Dreaming of Scotland? Listen to my immersive travel podcast Wild for Scotland !

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

The impossible question – what is the best time of the year to visit Scotland? Fact is, that every season in Scotland has a different appeal and very often the weather does not actually differ that much from season to season.

Billy Connolly once said, there are only two seasons in Scotland, June and Winter. The weather is always unpredictable – even in June. No matter when you visit, you should be prepared to encounter all four seasons in one day.

That said there are other factors playing into this and give each season a different appeal. Certain animals can only be spotted during their active periods, such as whales or puffins, while some attractions close during certain months of the year.

It makes a difference whether you come for endless days, or to hunt the northern lights; want to see the Highland peaks covered in snow, or glistening in the sun. There are many festivals happening all over the country year-round.

If you are visiting Scotland with a purpose, make sure that the time of the year is right for you! My Scotland Travel Resource Library includes a month-by-month overview to help you decide.

Personally, I love travelling around Scotland in the spring and early summer (April to May) as well as autumn or fall (late August to November) . The offseason is a great time to visit for a number of reasons. In April and May, you already get the long summer days I love so much – and thus, more time to explore!

The dreaded Scottish midges haven’t hatched yet, and meadows and woodlands are springing to life with blooming flowers and baby animals! August no November can be great months for wildlife watching, witnessing the bloom of the purple heather and the turn of the seasons, as Scottish woodlands change colours. 

If Edinburgh is the main reason for your visit, make sure you are prepared to plan around big events in the city. Festival month in August can be super busy (and expensive) – but the city is bustling with life.

And the same counts for Christmas time and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) in December. Don’t forget to book your accommodation far in advance!

You might also like: 20 Tips for Winter Travel in Scotland

How much time should you spend in Scotland?

There is an easy answer to this question: as much time as you can. Yes, you could enter a tour de force through Scotland, spend a day or two in Edinburgh and then drive for hours to cover Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe over the weekend. But would you enjoy it? Probably not…

Spending at least one week or up to 10 days is the minimum to get a good overview of what Scotland has to offer. In that time you can easily fit a day or two exploring Edinburgh and then contrasting it with the more edgy city of Glasgow.

From there the Highlands are at your doorstep and you can spend a few days travelling around the mountains and islands. Or go off the beaten track to discover the northeast coast or southern Scotland -every region of the country offers plenty to do!

With fewer days, you will have to adjust your expectations accordingly and plan to cover less ground. I’ve made the mistake myself and tried to cover everything in a few days – and I failed; spending way too much time in the car and not enough exploring. Now I travel much slower and dedicate long weekends or full weeks to focus on different regions in Scotland.

There is so much to see, it would be a shame to rush through the country in pursuit of the far-flung tourist magnets of Scotland. Sometimes less (mileage) is more!

You might also like:  My Top 20 Places to Visit in Scotland

My Scotland itineraries

Check out my handy and easy-to-follow Scotland itineraries that will save you heaps of time on research, without compromising the quality of your trip!

If you’re travelling by bus & train, check out my Best of Scotland itinerary for public transport .

Find out how to choose the best Scotland itinerary for you!

How to Get around Scotland

These tips are all related to travelling IN Scotland. If you need help finding cheap airfare to Scotland, check out this post first!

Road trip, public transport or organised tours?

Once you have decided when to visit and how long to stay, the next question you should ask yourself is how to get around. Your mode of transport can have a huge impact on the most efficient route for your trip and how much is feasible in any given time frame. Your choices are to rent a car, utilise public transport or join an organised tour.

Do you feel comfortable enough with left-side traffic and narrow mountain roads that you can rent a car? Or would you rather travel eco-friendly and rely on public transport? On guided tours, transport is taken care of for the entire group and you don’t have to worry about anything – but is it enough flexibility?

You could even hitchhike, which I’m not going to recommend for obvious reasons – but it is a common practice especially among hikers and I’ve successfully done it myself. And then there is the option to simply use your feet and walk through Scotland on a long-distance hike.

Of course, whichever mode of transport through Scotland you chose will highly influence your experience in Scotland. Each option comes with advantages and disadvantages – here is a wee rundown of things to consider.

Hiring a Car in Scotland

The huge advantage of hiring a car in Scotland is that it offers maximum flexibility for your itinerary. However, you also have to bear the responsibility of driving and navigating yourself. Solo travellers, in particular, might find that driving takes away some of the joys of observing the scenery; or find it tiring.

Distances on the map of Scotland can be deceiving, particularly on smaller Highland roads where photo stops of campervans can slow down traffic. Don’t underestimate distances in Scotland, even if it looks small on the map.

In my experience, it is much better to plan shorter driving days and reduce mileage, than trying to cram in as many miles as possible.

Personally, I think hiring a car is the best way to get around Scotland because many of my favourite places can only be reached by car. Most of my itineraries are written with a rental car in mind and it is my preferred mode of transport when I travel myself.

However, remember that other feasible options do exist and a road trip is not the Holy Grail of planning a trip to Scotland.

I usually book my rental cars with Auto Europe , a platform that compares prices from several rental agencies and offers comprehensive and affordable insurance packages – much cheaper than getting it directly from the rental agency. That way I can ensure I definitely get the best deal!

Remember, you do not need an international driver’s license . Your license from home should be sufficient, but it is important to learn the local traffic rules. This online guide by Tripiamo can help you with that – it contains short and informative videos as well as guided drives with real footage from British roads.

Pros | Flexible itinerary and time management; That road trip feeling!

Cons |  Potentially more expensive; More responsibility; Distraction from the gorgeous views (at least for the driver)

TIPS FOR DRIVING Top Tips for Hiring a Car in Scotland 21 Driving Tips for Scotland How to Drive on Single-track Roads Tripiamo’s car & motorbike guide for the UK The Most Scenic Road Trips in Scotland

Scotland by Public Transport

Public transport in Scotland offers an extensive network of buses, trains and ferries, which is reliable and safe to use. Combining trains, buses and ferries you can travel the entire country – you might just need a bit more time and flexibility to reach every destination on my itineraries.

Scottish Trains & Buses

Journeys by train or bus through the Highlands can be super scenic, as they often travel down remote routes. Many of Scotland’s most popular destinations, like Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, Oban or Fort William can be easily reached from Glasgow or Edinburgh by public transport – but it will take longer than by car and you can’t stop along the way.

If you choose to travel around Scotland by public transport, I highly recommend reducing the number of destinations you’d like to cover and taking your time to explore slowly.

Most trains are operated by Scotrail – although there are other companies operating between England and Scotland. I usually buy tickets in advance – they’re typically released 90 days in advance.

There are many different bus operators in Scotland. Local buses are often operated by First or Stagecoach, but there are also cheap intercity bus connections with Megabus or Citylink. It’s best to bok popular routes in advance!

I usually use Google Maps to look up public transport connections, but it does not always list all local buses in remote areas. In those cases, I use Traveline Scotland instead.

Keep track of your travel memories with my Scotland Travel Journal !

Taking Scottish Ferries

Of course, Scotland is a also great destination for island hopping. There are two major ferry operators, Northlink Ferries (to Orkney & Shetland) and CalMac (to the Inner & Outer Hebrides), as well as a number of smaller private operators servicing islands up and down the coast of Scotland.

Many islands can easily be visited without a car, but public transport is not always available on the islands – that means walking, hiring bikes or a local taxi as a travel guide!

If you plan an island-hopping itinerary with a hire car, I highly recommend booking all ferry tickets in advance as there is limited capacity and some popular crossings (especially to Skye, Mull, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Arran).

If you travel by public transport and board ferries as a passenger without a car, booking in advance is not necessary, but can bring ease of mind. 

While sailing to the Outer Hebrides or Shetland takes several hours (overnight to Shetland), other islands, such as Arran, Mull or Skye are within much quicker reach. Major ferry ports you might consider as a starting point are Ardrossan, Oban , Mallaig or Ullapool. You can reach all of them by public transport, so car-free island-hopping is totally possible.

As you can imagine, each island has a different appeal and just because you’ve heard about one over and over again (Skye) does not mean it is necessarily the best island for you. There are many beautiful alternatives to the Isle of Skye . Check out my overview of Scottish islands to help you make an informed decision for your island itinerary!

Hooked on islands?  A Complete Guide to Using Ferries in Scotland

Public Transport Travel Passes

If you are looking for a simple solution to your public transport itinerary, travel passes by Scotrail might be the best solution. There are several options offering unlimited travel in certain regions or a set amount of travel days within a certain time frame. Most include trains, buses and ferries. Before you buy, look up individual ticket costs to make sure the travel pass is worth it!

Pros |  Environmentally friendly; Extensive network, easy to navigate; Time to focus on views

Cons |  Less flexible itinerary; More time-intense

Guided Tours of Scotland

Joining a guided tour of Scotland is the so-called “carefree” option. Everything is taken care of – transport, routes and in some cases even accommodation or meals.

There are many Scottish tour operators to choose from, and they can vary in group sizes, prices, itineraries and target demographics. I’d recommend to shop around and read reviews before you decide on a tour around Scotland.

I’ve done quite a few guided tours, with companies such as Rabbie’s, Timberbush Tours or Highland Explorer Tours – you can check out my reviews and find specific booking links below.

Generally, I would recommend doing multi-day tours rather than several individual day tours – mainly because it saves a lot of driving time and in my experience, the itinerary will be more relaxed.

Pros | Worry-free travel experience; Experienced tour guide on board

Cons | You’re “stuck” with the prescribed itinerary; Potentially too little time at each destination

Recommended Scotland Bus Tours

Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Timberbush (similar tour from Edinburgh here) – Read my REVIEW! Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Rabbie’s  – they also offer a 1-day Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh !  Read my REVIEW! Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Northumberland : 1-day tour from Edinburgh with Timberbush Tours – Read my REVIEW! Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky : 1-day tour from Glasgow with Rabbie’s – a similar 1-day tour to Stirling Castle from Edinburgh also includes Loch Lomond and a stop at the Kelpies!  Read my REVIEW! Outlander Day Tour : 1-day Outlander tour from Edinburgh with Highland Explorer Tours – Timberbush Tours and Rabbie’s also offer Outlander day tours from Glasgow!  Read my REVIEW! Isle of Arran Adventure : 3-day tour from Glasgow  with Rabbie’s – but you can also book this tour from Edinburgh !  Read my REVIEW!

Decide what to Do & See in Scotland

It really is not hard to find things to do and see in Scotland – it really is more about making a feasible list of priorities.

Do you want to delve into the country’s rich history and see castles and museums – or rather immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscape? Are you a thrill-seeker in search for kayaking, mountaineering or skiing adventures – or do you prefer it more mellow with boat rides, leisurely walks and culinary delights?

From my Scotland regions page , you can click through to different areas to visit in Scotland .

I like to plan a good mix of things and activities when I visit a new country. For Scotland I suggest you see at least one castle , do at least one easy or intermediate hike , spend a day on the road/on the train/on the bus to see the landscape, take one ferry , spend one day in the city , go to the pub and see some live music , and visit a whisky (or gin) distillery .

I summed up these ideas and more in my post 20 Experiences for Scotland First Timers .

Need more advice? 50 practical travel tips for Scotland How to Save Money in Scotland – 50 Top Tips A Complete Packing List for Scotland 16+ Outdoor Activities in Scotland

Hiking Tips for Scotland

Although the mountains in the Highlands are not as tall as in the Alps or other popular mountain ranges, you need to be very careful when hiking in these hills.

The weather is unpredictable and fog can lock you in within minutes. Paths in the Highlands are rarely signposted and even if they are marked on the map, they could be barely visible in real life. Often sheep or deer trails look a lot like trails, but then, of course, they end nowhere – or worse, lead off a cliff…

A great introduction to hiking in Scotland is this video guide for bagging Munros ! 

If you plan to go hiking in Scotland, here are a few essential hiking tips for the Highlands:

• Bring a  map  and a compass , and know how to use them. If you’re not an experienced navigator, stick to very popular routes that are well signposted.
• Bring plenty of water for every hiker in your party – water might never be far in the Scottish Highlands, but sometimes accessing it is trickier than you’d think.
• Wear warm, wind- and waterproof clothes & sturdy shoes (ideally,  hiking boots that support your ankles). I talk about some of my essential hiking equipment and items I pack for every Scotland trip in this post .
• Don’t forget your  headtorch , just in case you lose your way and it falls dark.

My number 1 online resource for trail information and descriptions is Walk Highlands  which also has a great page on mountain safety in Scotland!

And if you fancy other outdoor activities, check out these activities for summer, winter and adrenaline junkies !

You might also like: The 20 Best Hikes in Scotland  – for Beginners and Munro-Baggers

Wonder how I plan my long-distance hikes? Check out my step-by-step guide for planning a self-guided walking holiday in Scotland  for more tips.

Where to stay in Scotland

In Scotland, there are many accommodation options you can choose from, ranging from top-notch luxury hotels and boutique B&Bs to more basic guest houses, inns or hostels.

If you are on a really tight budget, consider camping (during the summer months) or renting a campervan to have your home with you at all times. You can also go wild camping in Scotland .

Personally, I love renting out entire cottages to feel like I have a real home away from home.

Download my free Scotland Trip Planning Checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important !

Hotels in Edinburgh | Can be very expensive, especially during the summer and Christmas season. Here are some of my favourite options for all budgets.

Hotels in Glasgow | Are much easier to come by, more affordable but increasingly popular! Check out my favourites for all budgets .

Hotels & B&Bs in the Highlands | Range from basic to luxury. Highland and island accommodation should be booked in advance, as the houses often have fewer rooms. Usually, they are well located near public transport and in scenic spots. I find Booking.com  to be a great resource to find independent B&Bs, hotels or guesthouses.

Hostels | The Scottish Youth Hostel Association runs many hostels throughout the country, but I also love staying at one of the Scottish Independent Hostels.

Self-catering | As I mentioned above, I love renting out entire cottages, cabins or houses. It is a great way to find some incredibly unique accommodation in the Scottish countryside!

Looking for unique experiences?  Check out my Favourite  Unique Places to Stay in Scotland  – from hotels to B&Bs!

Should I book ahead?

This might just be the most asked question about accommodation (and ferries) in Scotland – should you book your accommodation ahead of time? The simple answer is YES!

Accommodation in Scotland is fairly easy to come by, but not everywhere has an endless capacity.

If you visit popular and potentially sparsely populated places, like the Isle of Skye, North Coast 500 , Orkney, the Hebrides or the Isle of Mull, you have to book accommodation in advance – unless you plan to wild camp. Even campsites can fill up quickly during the summer months!

I’d give similar advice for ferries. I understand that it’s nice to keep your itinerary flexible, especially if you travel with a camper and/or a tent, but except for Skye, ferries are the only way to get on and off the islands.

Capacity is limited and popular sailing times (usually the ones that allow you to maximise your days in the destination) can book up quickly in advance.

Book your ferry tickets as early as possible , or prepared to be flexible in case your preferred time is not available anymore. Foot passengers usually don’t have to worry, but can buy the ticket on arrival half an hour before the sailing time.

This guide should have given you a thorough idea of how to plan a trip to Scotland. The first decisions are often the hardest, but once you know when and how long you will visit Scotland, how you want to get around Scotland and what sort of activities you are interested in, it is time to plan your actual itinerary.

Are you ready to plan a trip to Scotland?

Need more advice?   I offer  travel planning services  that range from honest feedback on your planned itinerary to creating customised routes for you and your travel party!

Pin this post for later:

Planning a trip to Scotland?

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Join my Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures

Listen to my podcast Wild for Scotland for lots of travel inspiration

Use my Scotland Travel Journal to document your trip

Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library

Save time and get one of my pick-up-and-go Scotland itineraries

Beat the overwhelm and hire me to plan a bespoke itinerary for you

77 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Scotland: Everything you Need to Know to Visit Scotland ”

I believe you! I have been once in my life and my dream is to come back to Scotland again and again and again. I felt at home.

Hi Kathi. We’re beginning to plan our once in a lifetime trip to Scotland. It will be our 30th wedding anniversary this year. We definitely want to explore Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness and everything in between. Both of our heritages are from Scotland near the Inverness area. We are hoping to see as much as we can. We’re interested in landscape, history/heritage, castles/royalty, the highlands, local people and fantastic food. One of the things we want to see is the Military Tattoo so obviously we will need to go in August. We aren’t interested in guided tours because we’d rather do things at our own pace and not be “herded” about. We’re interested in a more relaxing vacation but yet we want to do and see as much as we can. We have many questions like, should we rent a car or go with public transport? Should we choose one place to stay the entire time or should we stay in different places? What days of the week are cheaper to fly and how far in advance should we purchase our flights to get the best deal? What itinerary would you suggest? So many questions! We’re hoping you can help. We only have one chance to get this right.

Hi Michele, thanks for your comment! Why don’t you send me an email to [email protected] and I’ll explain how I can help! Cheers, Kathi

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I’m a teacher and want to plan my month long DREAM vacation to Scotland. This trip will need to be either in the month of June or July. I could always shorten my trip and go in December for 3 weeks, but I think I would like the flexibility of my summer months off. I would love all suggestions and advice. I’m 47 and believe I will be exploring on my on, embracing the culture and the beauty that Scotland has to offer. All advice is much welcome!

Hi Tina, I’d be delighted to help you put together an itinerary for your trip. Going in June/July (peak season) you want to make sure you pick some less busy spots as the summer months get pretty crowded in the well-known beauty spots. Check out my itinerary planning services: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ For long trips I tend not to do a day-by-day itinerary, but rather help you find good places to base yourself and make suggestions for day trips from there. Happy to chat!

Hello, Thanks for a very nice blog. I am visiting Glasgow on an official trip and will have 1 Saturday to go around Scotland. I am thinking of visiting Oban, Glencoe, highlands on my own but the problem is, I can leave for the tour even at 6 AM but have to be back in Glasgow by 1700 hrs, to catch my flight back to my country. Do you think it is possible for me to do it on my own and if so, what public transport will be the best. I am unable to gather much information from internet so any help would he highly appreciated. Regards

Hi Sughanda, thanks for your question! Doing Oban and Glencoe by public transport in a day AND being back in Glasgow by 5 pm seems impossible to me – or rather, not really worth it. You’d be spending the majority of your time on the bus or train, and not very much actually seeing these places. I recommend checking time tables on Scotrail (for trains to Oban and then Traveline or Google Maps (for buses to Glencoe and back to Glasgow). I hope this helps! Alternatively, you could find a private driver to take you round the sites you want to see for the day – there are many you can find via Google or in Facebook groups for Scotland travel. Have you considered going to Loch Lomond for the day instead? It’s gorgeous and much easier to get to! All the best, Kathi

My family of three will be Edinburgh from 2 Sept. We plan to have a 6 day tour around Glasgow and surroundings. Will appreciate your recommendation on places, hotels and car renting.

Looking forward to your comments.

Hi Samuel, thanks for your comment! Have you had a look at my 7-day itinerary? You could easily adapt this to fit your requirements: https://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ I would normally suggest my travel consultation service for a customised itinerary, but I’m afraid I’m fully booked at the moment and can’t accept last-minute trips so soon. I hope you have a lovely trip ti Scotland! All the best, Kathi

Yeah, I’m planning a trip to Scotland not exactly I got a seat in Scotland University of Strathclyde located in Glasgow, Scotland…..I’m so excited to visit Scotland for my holidays as to explore many places meanwhile this blog has shared a wonderfully informative blog which is helpful for the travel guides!

Wow, I love this! my husband and I are planning on jumping across the pond to visit Scotland! It is my number one Bucket List location

Amazing, I hope you get to go and will have an awesome time! Thanks for taking a moment to leave a comment 🙂

Hi Kathi,, My wife and I are planning to do some time in Scotland while we still have time, she’s 70, I’m 78. We’re not too concerned about the cities, we did Edinburgh some years ago, and would prefer now to see the scenic side of the country. Ideally we want to see Skye, Shetland, or other Isles you may recommend, and take a leisurely look at what we believe to be the most beautiful end of our island.. We anticipate travelling from home, in Bedfordshire, to Scotland, either by train or plane, and then hiring a car to help us get around. I feel it may be better to chat with you rather than spend all the time I could spend and only get a small proportion of the benefit we hoped to get. If you could open the doors for us by giving us an idea of cost for a 10 day itinery from you, and maybe we could make a start.

Pete and Carolyn O’Meara

Hello Pete & Carolyn, many thanks for reading my blog and for taking the time to comment! I’d be delighted to help you with your itinerary and put something special together for you! Take a look at my consultation page which lists my prices and get in touch to discuss details! https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ I hope to hear from you soon! Kathi

Hi Kathi, thank you for the great & informative post. I am based in Milton Keynes. I intend to travel to Scotland in May 2019 with my family. I have been to Edinburgh & Glasgow few times but nothing apart from that in Scotland. If I have to get a glimpse/feel of the highlands in 3-4 days, what would you recommend? Based in which city (preferably city to fly into) to plan the itinerary?? I would really appreciate your guidance. Thank you.

Hi Nitin, thanks for taking the time to comment and your question! If you want to fly into a city in the Highlands, your best option is probably Inverness! It’s a good base for do trips in the area, to see the scenery and avoid long drives from Edinburgh. I hope that helps!

What a great resource you have! Thinking of visiting in the fall. How are midges in that season? I’d like to surprise my wife with horseback riding on a beach. Is that possible?

Hi Bill, midges usually hatch towards the end of May and stick around until it gets cooler at the end of September. That said, they are not necessarily such a big issue unless you camp and can’t escape from them. They mostly come out in the morning and early evening, so it’s not like they’d bother you all day.

There are a few places for horseback riding around the country. I recently came across a riding centre near Glasgow that can arrange a hack on the beach not too far from the city – might be a nice option!

I’d be delighted to help you plan a unique surprise trip and itinerary – check out my services here: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/

Nice blog post . Thank you.

I really appreciate your tip to choose a guided tour that has all of the proper transportation that you will need. That way, you can keep your worries at home when you go on your guided tour. My wife and I have been thinking of taking an anniversary trip to a new country, and I know that my wife would love to have no stress on our trip!

Totally agree – a guided tour can take away so much stress and pressure. Especially in the UK – I feel everybody’s anxiety about driving on the left side of the road 😀 Maybe Scotland will be your next trip?

Thanks! I plan on reading all of your posts on Scotland. I am heading there this June (2019) with my mother and my 3 children (boys ages at time of trip 13, 12, & 7). We will be in Scotland for one whole month (all of June), and plan on renting a car. Do you have any advice for travel with kids, or major points we should during a month long trip.

WOW what a trip! You’ll be able to fit a lot in 😉 Want to send me an email? I offer trip planning services and well as itinerary reviews ( https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ ) and would love to help! Kathi x

Hi Kathi, What a great post (and all the others linked in). I am planning to visit Scotland in 2019 as a solo female traveller. I’m looking to hire a vehicle for maximum flexibility as I’m looking to base myself out of three or four different bases during the 2 weeks. I’m worried that on my own, I won’t get to experience ‘authentic’ Scotland, and some of the activities/experiences that you may get with a tour group. I really want to get an appreciation for the towns/areas that I visit, and the people that live there – do you have any recommendations of how I can achieve this? I don’t want to travel all that way and end up just wandering around by myself the entire time! Thanks for your help.

Thanks for your question!! It really depends on where you’re going… my top advice would be, don’t be shy – just start talking to people in pubs or in shops etc. I just spent 2 weeks alone in the Hebrides, and had lots of nice experiences just because I started chatting. Scottish people are super friendly and always up for a chat! This might be a bit harder in Edinburgh, since there are many more tourists there, but everywhere else you’ll meet loads of people just like that! In smaller communities there might be community activities you could join – especially now in the summer. I’d check local council websites and ask at the places you’re staying at. If you find a ceilidh, go for it!!

Thanks for your advice – appreciate it.

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I like that you said that guided tours give you a “care-free” travel experience. I usually start to stress out whenever I plan something and this would really help me out. I think that this would be a great option for our extended family vacation this summer.

Thanks for the informative post! My husband and I are hoping to go to Scotland in October. From what I’ve read that’s a good time for colors. Is this true? Also, do the ferries run in October?

Hi Deb, you can check ferry timetables here: https://www.calmac.co.uk/summer-timetables – switch to winter time tables is on Oct 22. There is also NorthLink Ferries, but they only service Orkney and Shetland, while Calmac goes to all the other islands. The colours in Fall are indeed beautiful, but if you’re looking for foliage, you obvs. need to go to areas with lots of woodlands. Perth or the Trossachs are good for that! The Highlands have less woodlands, but the bracken on the hills turns all orange and is also very pretty! Have a lovely trip!

I have dropped you an email. Kindly revert on it

Hey, I chanced upon this website while planning my Scotland trip and found it very informative. I am planning a 5 day trip to Scotland in the first week of July with my husband and 20 month old. We are majorly interested in exploring the natural beauty, some places of historical significance(castles etc) and maybe a tour to a distillery. We plan to come from London by flight and would then rent a car, It would be great if you could suggest a five day itinerary keeping in mind that hiking would not be possible with the toddler.

Hello Surabhi, thanks for your comment and question! Have you seen my 7-day itinerary ( https://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ )? You could use this as a basis and cut things out to make it shorter – I would suggest to probably not go further north than Fort William if you only have 5 days and focus on shorter drives with your toddler instead. If you’d like more help with your itinerary, please consider booking travel consultation with me – I’d be happy to make you a detailed suggestion for a 5-day itinerary with a toddler and including the things you mentioned (best for views, castles, whisky distillery, no hiking): https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ I look forward to hear from you! Cheers, Kathi

Love this site and all the advice! I’m planning a week trip to scotland with my mom and sister from Sweden. I love the best of scotland one week itinerary but want to spend potentially an extra day exploring glencoe, loch lomond and fort william. Only problem is we won’t be driving so all travel has to be by public transport, ferries etc. Is it possible to do the one week best of scotland itinerary without a car? if we were to cut out loch ness and inverness and make our way to edinburgh and then finally glascow (as thatswe’re we are flying to and from) would we be able to make it in 8 days, having spent that extra time in glencoe and loch lomond?

All the best,

Hi Isra, Thanks for your question! The public transport system in Scotland is great and covers all of the areas that I mention in my 7-day itinerary, however not all of the stops I write about will be possible – either because the bus-/train-route doesn’t pass there or there is no option/time to get off. Honestly, instead of cutting Loch Ness and Inverness, I would cut Skye, because going from Skye to Edinburgh by public transport you have to go past Loch Ness and Inverness either way. Instead of spending 8-9 hours on transport between Portree and Edinburgh without stops (~ Day 6), you could make your journey more leisurely by cutting Skye and exploring along the route you have to go anyways.

If you want any help with route planning or alternative suggestions, you can have a look at my travel consultation page and send me an email! https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/

I hope this if helpful for now, but I’d also be happy to plan an itinerary for you 😉 Cheers, Kathi

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Wonderful advice! So helpful! Thanks a million! Travelling in May!

I’m happy you find it useful! May is a lovely time in Scotland – have a fab trip!

Wow! I love how comprehensive this guide is…it really answers so many questions and provides so much information!

I’m glad you enjoyed it! Do you have a trip to Scotland coming up?

Oh wow, such an amazing guide. I have always wanted to visit Scotland, and I will definitely bookmark this for when I get back to Europe! Thanks for sharing!

Such a thorough guide, thanks for sharing! I’ve lived in London for 5 years and never made it up to Scotland, I think it’s time for a trip! I also love your photos 🙂

Hi Greta, oh wow – you really should come up here! It’s such a beautiful country! Have you been able to travel much around England though?

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Hi Kathi, So happy to stumble upon found you – my daughter and I are planning a trip to Scotland June 2018 – both of us single (19 and 52) and happy to hear your comments being on the safe side to travel. Just trying to narrow down all we want to do in 17 days!

Hi Lisa, happy you found me! 17 days is a great amount of time to see a lot of different sides of Scotland. You could take my one week itinerary as a starting point http://watchmesee.com/blog/classic-scotland-itinerary/ , and add a few days here and there, maybe some time in the Cairngorms or Fife, some more time on the islands, more time in Glasgow & Edinburgh – opportunities are endless! Let me know if you need any help planning – I’m offering travel planning services for Scotland! (Just not on the website yet…)

Kathi thank you so much for your blog I’m rtravelling on my own in Scotland this sept and the info here is priceless you don’t give day tours by any chance? I have made copious notes and I’ve a tons of planning to do. You blog link booked marked thank you again ! Carolyne

Hi Carolyne, I’ve actually just created a profile on Showaround to give offering tours a shot ( https://www.showaround.com/locals/9723790 ). It should let you book me as a tour guide for Glasgow – but I could also show you around Edinburgh! I don’t have a car, so cities are my stomping ground at the moment 😉 I also help people plan their itineraries for a small fee – I don’t have this up on the website yet, as I’ve been test-running it for a few months so far. Drop me an email if you’re interested!

your blog is really interesting. I will be coming on September and i would like to explore Scotland! how i can be in touch with you to offer me a tour guide. thank you

Heya, I see you’ve already found me on Instagram 😉 I also signed up with Showaround, so you could book me for a day tour of Glasgow or in the surrounding area! This is my profile: https://www.showaround.com/locals/9723790 You’d have to sign up, add your travel dates and I can send you an offer if I’m available! Cheers, Kathi

Kathi, so glad I found your page. The wealth of information is helpful. I’m attempting to plan our first 10 day trip to Scotland in October 2018 and I look forward to find out more info from you. I’m in my 40’s and likely the lovely lady above put it fluffy but adventurous with by best friend who’s in the same boat. I assertain that you think public transit and day trips are a more cost affective way to see the area without the tour congestion?

I’m glad you find my content useful 🙂 In October there are definitely fewer tourists, nothing compared to the summer months. Public transport is not necessarily cheaper than renting a car, but a great way to travel without having to figure out driving on the left. Busses are certainly cheaper and the network is very useful. Many train lines also offer great views. So there are many advantages of taking public transport!!

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Kathi, your post, which I read on Pintrest, is very helpful! I am going to Scotland for 10 days in May, 2017 to visit my granddaughter who is a college student in Edinburgh. One big concern: I am a lady in my 70’s and am rather “fluffy” in stature but a little adventurous! I am worried about accessibility for older people with some physical limitations. A 5 day bus trip to Skye with Rabbe is planned and the other days will be in Edinburgh and Glasgow on our own. Do you think I will need trekking poles? Waterproof shoes?? I plan to bring along my sense of humor and optimism!

Hi Sharon, thanks for commenting and your question! With Rabbie’s you’re in good hands – their tour guides are really nice and considerate! I just had a quick look at that particular tour to see what stops are included. I would most definitely bring waterproof shoes no matter what you do in Scotland, but they don’t necessarily have to be hiking boots. Trekking shoes should be enough. May is the driest month, but if it only rains once, you’ll be happy you brought them. Make sure you have a good waterproof jacket though that also keeps the wind out! Trekking poles can be very helpful, it really depends on what activities you chose to do on Skye. For the hike in the Quiraing and the visit at the Neist Point lighthouse, I’d take them, just to be sure. The garden of Dunvegan Castle or the area of Kilt Rock are really just leisurely strolls on gravel paths. I think Scotland is a great place for seniors to visit – the natural beauty is overwhelming, but it’s not hidden away so only highly adventurous outdoors folk can see it! A lot of the most beautiful viewpoints are accessible by car! You’ll see 🙂

I hope you have a fantastic trip!! Have you had a look at my Skye post yet? http://watchmesee.com/blog/things-to-do-isle-of-skye/

I’m visiting Scotland again this late winter and am looking forward to exploring more of the islands as I’ve always stuck to the cities in the past. Glad I found this blog 🙂

Well, welcome to the family 🙂 Let me know if you have any questions for places to go, or things to do. Where are you heading in the islands?

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Hello! So glad I bumped into your blog! I’m planning my first solo travel next month, 12 days of Scotland, and this really really helps me! Looking forward to it. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Yasmin, oh I’m so glad you found my blog – I hope it gives you loads of inspiration and ideas for your trip! 12 days is a great amount of time as well for a first trip here – do you already know where you want to go? x

Hi Katie – I just came back from Scotland and I fell in love with it. I did 14 days and it was not nearly enough to see and do all I wanted. I did post my quite aggressive itinerary on my blog if you wish to see what my family and I did. Scotland is so incredibly beautiful and you are so right it seems like a small country but the winding roads that are sometimes single track make for a longer than expected road trip. But the visit is definitely worth it and I think everyone should experience Scotland.

Thanks for your comment – I’m so glad you had a great trip and it sounds like you will need to return as well! I love your blogposts and will share them on my networks as well! Need to find the PUFFINS!!! 😀

So glad you loved my blog posts. Looking forward to reading more of yours. Going to go find you on instagram also 🙂 Happy Roving!!!

Hi Kathi, loved reading your blog and subscribed to get more. My husband & I are going for a week in September for our 45th anniversary. Can’t wait to see the beautiful country and meet the people. We’re actually spending our 1st week in Ireland and the 2nd week in Scotland. Looking forward to reading more of your blog!

Thanks for your comment! That sounds like a fantastic trip! I’ve never been to Ireland sadly, but I’ll definitely write loads about the best places to go in Scotland by then 😀 Are you flying between Ireland and Scotland or taking the ferry?

I recently returned from an incredible 10 day trip to Scotland! Be sure and take an umbrella and rain boots, to be covered for the occasional drizzle, which for the most part will not impede your plans. Plan a day or two in both Glasgow and Edinburgh, a day at Luss and on Loch Lomond, few days in the highlands; both West and North, and time in Skye. Hit at least one “local” (non-franchised) pub, where the locals gather, in order to get the real flavour of song, conversation, and entertainment. Tour one castle still in authentic ruins, one cathedral, one museum, on distillery, one football (soccer) game, and then most importantly, interact with the Scots . . . It’s the only way to really step into the wonders of the country. Ask for directions, chat, get lost, and do it all over again if you have to, just so you can engage and beg upon their incredible warmth and hospitality. “They,” and my incredible Rabbies tour guide, John Mc Dermott, MADE me fall in love with Scotland! Believe it or not, confused and a bit lost as I attempted to leave Glasgow on the train back to our hotel in Clydebank, one evening, the kindest, most fun couple literally “picked me up” while on the train. They got off at my same stop, and ended up taking me to their house, feeding me, treating me to lovely drinks and desserts, and then drove me back to my hotel where we all socialised into the wee hours of the night. It was amazing, and I’m quite sure such an event would never happen in the states! They’ve become friends for life, and will be traveling to the states next year, where we will meet up again. I’ve become fb friends with several native Scot, including John, who continues to treat me to travels by his incredible photography on the Internet. Scotland is magical when you gather the perfect ingredients: the people, the music, the food, the legends, the natural scenery, and being open to every oppotunity that comes your way, planned or not. I held back the tears when I left . . . it was just that wonderful, and I can’t wait to go back!

Thank you so much for your comment Mary! I’m so happy to hear you had such a fantastic time in Scotland and with Rabbies – and indeed the people make the entire country so special! I think John might have been my tour guide too, but I’m not 100% sure as I only did a day trip and it’s been a few months since then.

I’m usually not one for the umbrella but prefer a rain coat so I still have my hands free and because of the wind – but I’ll make sure to talk about Scottish weather on the blog at some point soon. It’s something to get used to…

Thanks again, and I hope Scotland sees you again soon! 🙂

It’s just what that place does to you!! Thanks for your comment!

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Scotland is one of the countries I wanted to visit. This is a great post! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks for your comment! I can’t recommend visiting Scotland enough 😀

I’ve been all over Europe and somehow haven’t made it to Scotland yet, after reading your post and looking at your pictures it is definitely on my list. Thanks for sharing on the Girls V. Globe linkup! It would be interesting to see what it’s like “walking” your way through Scotland.

Hi Katie, thanks for your comment! I will be writing about the walking bit later on. There are several long-distance walks criss-crossing the country, and I’m planning to walk the most popular one this summer. It’s called the West Highland Way 🙂 Scotland is definitely worth a trip!

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Best Scotland road trip itinerary (10, 14 & 18 day options)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2023

Planning a Scottish road trip? Our detailed Scotland road trip itinerary includes many of the most popular destinations, scenic routes , landmarks and sights when touring Scotland . Over 18 days explore cities, Highlands, islands and part of the popular North Coast 500 route. Options to reduce to a 10 day or 14 day Scotland road trip itinerary are also included.

As road trips go one destination you are sure of an epic road trip is Scotland! In this article, we have shared our own epic Scotland road trip itinerary which includes some of our favourite destinations across the country.

The itinerary starts and ends in Edinburgh and includes our recommended route, highlights to see every day plus where to stay and travel tips along the way.

If you are planning to visit Scotland our ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary is an off-the-peg plan which means you can use as-is or if you prefer simply adapt it to suit your own interests and needs. Although planned for 18 days it is possible to shorten the itinerary to 10 days, 14 days or whatever length you require.

If you are planning to hire a car in the UK we recommend reading our practical guide to car rental (and driving in the UK) which has essential information, tips and points to consider.

Prefer to travel by train? Check out our best of Scotland by rail itinerary ! Everything you need to know to plan your Scotland rail adventure.

📝 What to see in Edinburgh

🏨 where to stay in edinburgh, 🚗 day 4 – edinburgh to callander (via the kelpies and stirling), 🏞 day 5 – day trip to killin & pitlochry, 🚗 day 6 – callandar to oban via the trossachs and loch lomond, ⛴ day 7 – tour to mull, iona and staffa (day trip), 🚙 alternative itinerary for those prone to seasickness, 🚗 day 8 – oban to fort william, 🚂 day 9 – the jacobite, ⛴ day 10 – fort william to skye via mallaig, 🏞 days 11/12/13 – exploring skye, day 13/14 – ullapool (1 night), day 14/15 – durness & tongue (1 night), day 15/16 – orkneys (1 night), 🚗 day 17 – inverness, day 18 – edinburgh, where to next, what is the best road trip in scotland, how long is a road trip around scotland, how many days do you need to tour scotland, plan your trip to scotland, scotland road trip map & itinerary – overview.

Click for our Scotland road trip map (Google maps)

SCOTLAND ITINERARY AND ROAD TRIP ROUTE

• Days 1/2/3/4 – Edinburgh
• Days 4/5/6- Callander
• Days 6/7/8 – Oban & Islands
• Days 8/9/10 – Fort William
• Days 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye
• Days 13/14 – Ullapool (North Coast 500)
• Days 14/15 – Durness/Tongue/Skail (North Coast 500)
• Days 15/16 – Orkney
• Days 16/17/18 – Inverness

Days 1, 2, 3 & 4 – Edinburgh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (3 nights)

On Day 1 arrive in the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, via train. If you are staying in London and plan to take a road trip around Scotland it is quick and easy to take the train between the two capitals. Read more about how to get from London to Edinburgh .

👍 Good to know – Journey time is around 4½ to 5 hours so if you leave London at 9 am you should get into Edinburgh at around 1 pm – 1.30 pm which is the perfect time to head to your accommodation to check-in.

Arriving in Edinburgh early afternoon leaves a decent amount of the day for sightseeing, particularly in summer. Day 2/3 days to explore Edinburgh. Below are the main highlights we recommend including in your itinerary.

Read our guide to things to do in Edinburgh which also includes suggested itinerary ideas.

✅ The Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus stops at the main attractions and landmarks and is a great way to get around the city – book your tickets here .

✅ If your itinerary includes visiting Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse we recommend purchasing a city card that includes entry to all 3 royal attractions plus the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for 48 hours. (Note that Holyroodhouse is closed Tues/Wed).

• Edinburgh Castle – Tour and skip-the-line ticket
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – Buy your ticket here
• The Royal Mile – start at the Castle and walk down to Holyroodhouse
• Scott Monument
• The Real Mary King’s Close and Underground Vaults Tour – One of the most haunted places on earth apparently! 👻

• £ – Elder York Guest House – This is our choice of accommodation whenever we stay in Edinburgh – excellent breakfast, near the train station and nice rooms. * Note there are stairs to the accommodation so this is not suitable if you have any mobility issues.
• ££ – Ibis Syles Edinburgh St Andrews Square – With 24-hour reception, a bar and restaurant and free WiFi.
• £££ – The Balmoral Hotel – Edinburgh’s most famous luxury hotel offers guests a Michelin-starred restaurant, a pool and a gym.
• £££ – The Witchery – Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches and 4-poster beds. Ideal location near Edinburgh Castle.

⭐️ Find more accommodation options in our guide to where to stay in Edinburgh

Days 4/5/6 – Callander (2 nights)

On day 4 travel from Edinburgh to Callandar. We recommend picking up your hire car at the point you are ready to leave the city to avoid any unnecessary parking expenses (or difficulties)

• Car hire options in Edinburgh include picking up at Waverley Train Station or Edinburgh Airport.
• The drive from the centre of Edinburgh to Callander takes just over 1 hour. Distance is 52 miles (83 km) via the M9. This route will take you past Falkirk and Stirling.
• The Kelpies
• The Falkirk Wheel
• Bannockburn
• National Wallace Monument
• Stirling Castle

🚗 Logistics

• Distance – 22 miles (35 km)
• Journey time – 35 mins
• Distance – 23 miles (36 km)
• Journey time – 38 mins (stop off to admire the views)
• Distance – 15 miles (24 km)
• Journey time – 25 mins
• Distance – 68 miles (109 km)
• Journey time – 1 hour 44 mins

⭐️ Highlights of the day

• Falls of Dochart
• Drive along the banks of Loch Tay
• The scenic beauty and picturesque views (don’t forget to charge your phone, pack memory cards for your cameras etc!)
• Blair Athol distillery
• Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder walk
• Afternoon tea at Crieff Hydro Hotel (Beautiful views)

Good to know – Highland cows can be seen in a field on the right-hand side of the road as you drive north out of Callendar .

🏨 Where to stay in Callander

• £ – Callander Hostel
• ££ – Highland Guest House
• £££ – Roman Camp Country House Hotel

🏞 Day 6/7/8 – Oban (2 nights)

Day 6 is a day spent exploring the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond National Park and Loch Katrine (Callander is located on the edge of the park) before heading for 2 nights in Oban.

Take a picnic and enjoy the views and scent of the forests. Head to the village of Balloch (a 45-minute drive from Callander) for a boat trip across Loch Lomond.

Oban is a 1 hour 45 mins drive from Balloch where you will check into your accommodation for the next 2 nights. If you wish to visit one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles at Inveraray it is possible to take a slightly different route via A83 and A819 which only adds around 10 minutes to the journey time.

• Mileage Callander to Balloch is 28 miles (45 km)
• Mileage from Balloch to Oban is 74 miles (119 km) on the A82
• The mileage from Balloch to Oban via Inverary Castle on the A83 is 77 miles (125 km).
• Loch Lomond (the Queen of Scottish lochs)
• Loch Katrine
• Scenic views
• Boat trip across Loch Lomond from Balloch ( Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise )
• Inverary Castle

🏨 Where to stay in Oban

• £ – Oban Youth Hostel
• ££ – Greencourt Guest House
• ££ £ – No.26 By The Sea

Day 7 drive from your accommodation in Oban to join the 3 Isles tour of Mull, Iona and Staffa . This is an all-day tour departing from Oban at 9:55 and returning at 20:05.

Notes – If you are prone to seasickness this may not be for you as the trip from Mull to Staffa and then Staffa to Iona is in a small boat. There are no toilets on Staffa.

• Ferry to Mull and road trip of the island
• Duart Castle
• Iona and Iona Abbey
• Boat trip to the Isle of Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave

If one or more of your party decides they don’t want to do the day trip to the islands there is an alternative. As Doug gets seasick this is what he did when I was over exploring the islands.

Drive up the coast road A828 towards Ballachulish / Glencoe. This is an alternative route to the way you will drive to Glen Coe on day 8 but is an equally pretty drive.

Highlights along the way include

• Dunstaffnage Castle
• Castle Stalker
• Port Appin (tiny port)

Days 8/9/10 – Fort William (2 nights)

Today we drive from Oban to Fort William via Rannock Moor and Glen Coe on the A82. In our view, the drive through Glen Coe is one of the most spectacular drives in Scotland (if not the world) Rannock Moor is a barren and rugged landscape and is one of the most remote places in Britain.

Stop at the Rannock Moor viewpoint and enjoy the views over this incredible place.

Read – Fort William Travel Guide & Ultimate Guide to things to do in Fort William

• Distance – 83 miles (133 km)
• Journey time – 2 hours (but do plan to stop off and enjoy the views along the way)
• Rannock Moor Viewpoint at the Bridge or Orchy
• Glen Etive (James Bond Skyfall drive)
• Three sister’s car park
• Buachaille Etive Mòr car park
• Views of Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak)

Tip – Stop off at the Green Welly shop located between Tyndrum and Crianlarich.

🏨 Where to stay in Fort William

• £ – Garrison Cells
• ££ – The Garrison
• £££ – Victoria House B&B

Read – Area and accommodation guide for Fort William

🚂 Logistics

Riding the Harry Potter train (or the Jacobite to give it its muggle name) is every Harry Potter fan’s dream and is one of the most popular train journeys in the UK.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

⭐️ Highlights of the day 🪄

• Riding the train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Observing the train from the Glenfinnan viewpoint crossing the viaduct later in the day
• Glenfinnan Church
• Neptune’s Staircase
• Read – Things to do in Fort William

Day 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye (3 nights)

Drive from Fort William to Mallaig which takes around 1 hour. Distance 43 miles (69 km) via A830. Cross over from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye via the CalMac ferry.

The ferry takes 30 mins. There are a number of departures per day. Book asap as this is a very popular route.

On arrival at Armadale, you will head to your accommodation. We recommend staying around Portree and exploring the island from there as your base.

Drive time from Armadale to Portree is around 1 hour via the A851 and A87. Distance is 42 miles (62 km)

• Scenic views on the drive from Fort William to Mallaig
• Ferry crossing
• Drive to Portree (depending on crossing time you can stop and enjoy the scenery along the way)

🏨 Where to stay in Skye

• £ – Sonas, Dundans
• ££ – Loch Eyre House
• £££ – Raasay House Hotel
• Guide to where to stay in Skye (areas and accommodation)

You have 2 full days to explore the Isle of Skye.

Drive the western driving loop on Day 10 and the northern driving loop on Day 11.

Many of the roads in Skye are narrow single-file lanes and you will need to pay attention to other road users (and animals!) as you drive.

Tip – Make reservations at restaurants prior to arrival as they can be busy and you may struggle especially during the summer months. We recommend the Edinbane Inn.

⭐️ Highlights of each day included

• Dunvegan Castle
• Neist Point Lighthouse
• Talisker Distillery
• The Fairy Pools
• Sligachan Old Bridge

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• The Fairy Glen

Read – One-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye

Read – How to get to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh

Check out from accommodation today and drive across the Skye bridge to the mainland and the Kyle of Lochalsh. The distance from Portree to the Kyle of Lochalsh via A87 is 50 mins – 34 miles/55 km.

The destination for this evening is Ullapool but there are a couple of places worth exploring along the way.

1. Plockton – 14 minutes from Kyle of Lochalsh (6 miles/ 10 km)

2. Eilean Donan Castle – Drive from Plockton to Eilean Donan Castle is around 20 minutes via A87. (11 miles/18 km)

Tip – Manuela’s Wee Bakery is only a few minutes drive from Eilean Donan and is a must-visit for a tasty snack!

The last leg of the journey today is from Eilean Donan Castle to Ullapool. This takes around 3 hours via Poolewe on the A890 and A832.

Distance is 120 miles (193 km) You are now driving the famous North Coast Scotland route.

• Plockton – Beautiful village famously featured in the Hamish Macbeth TV series
• Eilean Donan Castle – £10 admission charge for adults
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery
• Driving over the famous Bealach Na Ba road from Kishorn to Applecross!

🏨 Where to stay in Ullapool

• £ – Dacama House
• ££ – Broomview Cottage B&B

• First leg – Ullapool to Durness via Scourie on the A835, A894 and A838. Distance – 67 miles/109 km. Time – 1 hour 45 mins.
• Second leg – Durness to Tongue on the A838 Distance – 29 miles/47 kms. Time – 1 hour

Accommodation for the night is in Skail (23 miles from Tongue) which adds another 30 mins to the day’s driving time but accommodation is available in Tongue too.

Plan longer for each leg due to stopping to enjoy scenic views, unscheduled delays such as traffic/wildlife/sheep and rest stops.

• Clachtoll Beach
• Clashnessie Beach
• Golden Eagle Zipline

🏨 Where to stay in Durness or Tongue

• £ – Wee Hoose Glamping Pod
• ££ – Farr Bay Inn
• £££ – Altnaharra Hotel

Drive from your accommodation to catch the ferry from Gills Bay to Mainland Orkney. The journey takes around an hour and arrives at St Margaret’s Hope.

There is enough time to explore some of the main highlights of the island. Make sure to book tickets for popular places such as Skara Brae and Maeshowe.

• Dunnet Head Lighthouse (the most northerly point of mainland Britain)
• Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Read – What to do and see on Mainland Orkney

Day 16/17/18 – Orkney to Inverness (2 nights) via John O’Groats

Catch the ferry from Orkney back to Gill’s Bay. Head south via John O’Groats to the last stop in the Scottish Highlands – the city of Inverness.

• Journey time from John O’Groats is 2 hours 40 mins via A99 and A9
• Distance from John O’Groats is 119 miles (192 km)

🏨 Where to stay in Inverness

• £ – Alba B&B
• ££ – Heathmount Hotel
• £££ – Bunchrew House Hotel

Read – Where to stay in Inverness (Area and accommodation guide)

Logistics of the day

Today is spent exploring the main sights and landmarks in and around Inverness. The itinerary for today includes visiting Culloden, the Clava Cairns, Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness.

Read – Day trips from Inverness

• Culloden Battlefield
• Loch Ness and cruise – there are a few companies that offer boat trips on Loch Ness or you can take a day tour from Inverness if you prefer
• Castle Urquart

Today drive back to Edinburgh from Inverness to return the rental car. The drive time is dependent on the option you choose. The 3 options are

• A9 3 hours – 156 miles (250 km)
• A9/M9 3 hours 30 mins – 179 miles (288 km) This goes via Stirling
• A93 4 hours – 171 miles (275 km) through the Cairngorms National Park and down via Perth to Edinburgh

If you have time we recommend option 3 through the Cairngorms as this is a beautifully scenic route.

Once back in Edinburgh you can connect with onward travel via the train station or airport.

For example, you could take the Caledonian Sleeper back to London which is a great way to get back to the UK capital and save time (as it is an overnight service) or you could take the train to York !

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Scotland

The most famous road trip in Scotland is the North Coast 500 but there are many fantastic road trips in Scotland to choose from.

These include

• South West Coast 300 – Through Dumfries & Galloway and southern Ayrshire.
• North East 250 – Includes the Malt Whisky Trail, the Cairngorms National Park Aberdeen and the Moray Firth Coast
• The Borders Historic Route

As you can see from the above road trips they can vary. Some of Scotland’s road trips can be as little as 90 miles (the Snow Roads Scenic Route in the Cairngorms) to 500 kms for the North Coast 500.

We recommend planning at least a week for your road trip – longer if you can! There is so much to see from historic castles to stunning coastlines, fishing villages, lochs and Munros, to islands and more!

Take your time – stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!

Read more in our extensive guides to Scotland

• Scotland Travel Guide
• UK road trip planner
• 7 UK road trip itineraries
• Guide to the different regions of Scotland
• 19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to Scottish Islands
• Books to read about Scotland (or best movies set in Scotland )
• Best Outlander Tours in Scotland 2022

VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

Get started

VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

10 Tips for Planning a Trip to Scotland and Ireland

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The rugged landscape and emerald green nature of the British Isles leave many travellers longing to jump on the next flight to explore these two fantastic countries. However, planning a trip to Scotland and Ireland takes a bit more preparation than simply booking a flight and packing a bag.

While these two countries are, on the whole, quite easy to travel in — especially if you’re an English-speaker — there are a number of things you need to be aware of when visiting the wild north of Great Britain and the Emerald Isle.

Before we left on our amazing road trips through the Scottish highlands and the west of Ireland , there are several things we wished we would have known. To help you avoid some of the mistakes that we made, we’ve compiled a handy list of ten helpful tips for your trip to the region!

Table of Contents

10 Tips for Travel in Scotland & Ireland

Though Scotland and Ireland are both highly developed Western countries, there are a few anomalies that can throw a wrench in your travel plans if you’re not adequately prepared.

It is also worth noting that, while the countries are quite similar, there are some suggestions in this list that apply more to one country over another.

1. Rent a car

While it is certainly possible to get around Scotland and Ireland while relying solely on public transport, the further out of the bigger towns you get the more difficult it will become.

If you don’t want to spend the majority of your days either on a bus or waiting for one, one of the biggest travel tips I could give is to hire a car. We recommend searching for cars on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

While fuel prices can be steep, most cars have quite good mileage and both countries are fairly small, so you won’t have to fill up often. Hiring a car will definitely allow you to see the sites you want on your own terms and gives you a certain amount of freedom that the bus just doesn’t.

It is worth noting that both countries drive on the left side of the road and it can take some getting used to if you’ve only ever driven on the right.

However, it isn’t too hard and many visitors manage to navigate the change without any incidents. If you’re looking for tips about driving in Ireland for tourists, make sure to tell the rental car company your qualms and they are sure to help you out.

It is also worth spending time in the car park to familiarise yourself with the car before hitting the road.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the majority of rental cars in Ireland and Scotland tend to have manual transmissions. If you are confident driving manually, hiring this kind of car can save you a fair amount of money per day.

There are fewer automatic transmission cars available and they, therefore, tend to be a bit more expensive. However, if you don’t drive a manual or are nervous about driving in Scotland or Ireland , then it might be better to rent an automatic.

2. Wild Camp in Scotland

Camping has long been one of the saving graces for the budget-conscious traveller, with campsites coasting a fraction of the price of even the most discounted of hostel dorm beds.

However, in Scotland, while you can certainly drop some cash on a campsite plot, you don’t have to pay a thing if you choose to wild camp — and it’s perfectly legal almost everywhere.

Wild camping is both a really good way to offset the cost of a car hire and an excellent way to get away from it all and to enjoy the stunning natural scenery all to yourself. So, if you find a good spot, go ahead and pitch a tent and spend the night — this is one of the best Scotland travel tips I could give.

If you do choose to wild camp in Scotland, just make sure to do so safely and respectfully. Exercise leave no trace practices and make sure you leave your sleeping spot looking as if you were never there.

Make sure to camp away from main roads, as well, and be sure that it is legal to park your car where you are overnight. If you are unsure if you’re allowed to camp somewhere, a quick Google search for local laws should set you straight.

This tip applies only when planning a trip to Scotland as wild camping is illegal in Ireland. However, camping is still a popular money-saving option in Ireland , you just need to be at a proper campsite to do it.

As many people choose to camp in Ireland, there are hundreds of campsites throughout the country and they rarely cost more than about €10-15 per night. You also get the added benefit of shower facilities…which isn’t offered if you’re wild camping!

3. Take advantage of petrol stations.

The Highlands of Scotland are the most sparsely populated area of the UK and larger towns become few and far between the farther north you venture. This is much the same once you get outside of the bigger cities and towns in Ireland.

This being said, I would recommend that you consider filling up your tank when you’re about half full as it can be a long time before you come across a petrol station.

No one wants to be stranded with an empty tank in the middle of nowhere, so make sure to take advantage of whatever stations you come across. You don’t know when the next one will come along.

Petrol prices can be high in this area of the world, especially if you’re visiting from the United States so that is something to keep in mind when figuring out a budget.

4. It can take a while to travel short distances

One of the best travel tips to keep in mind while you’re road-tripping is that even though your destination might look fairly close by on the map, it can take a while to get there.

This is especially true in the more rural areas, but it can take close to three hours to travel just 60 miles. So make sure to plan accordingly and be realistic about how long it might take you to arrive at your destination.

The same goes when planning a trip to Ireland, especially if you decide to get off of the main motorway and enjoy the bucolic scenery of the smaller country roads.

We recommend getting off the big roads when visiting both Scotland and Ireland because it will help you find some hidden gems and see parts of the countries that few tourists ever even think to, but this can add to your travel time.

If you’re wondering how long it might take you to get somewhere, make sure to check out the travel times on Google Maps rather than just looking at the distance.

If your destination is 100 kilometres (62 miles) away, for instance, don’t expect it to take an hour to drive there as you might in the USA. It will likely take at least 2 hours to drive there.

5. The roads are narrow and full of sheep

One of the reasons it might take you a while to get from point A to point B while on a Scottish Highlands or Ireland road trip might be due to the narrow roads.

The farther away from the bigger towns you go, the roads get steadily narrower — to the point where there might only be one lane with passing places every 100 meters or so.

Another thing to know is that there often tend to be several sheep grazing on the side of these one-lane roads and they have little concern for oncoming traffic.

Michael and I spent about ten minutes at one point trying to get some sheep to move out of the middle of the road and had no success until someone came along and let his Border Collie chase them off.

6. Be prepared for all weather

It is a well-known fact that this part of the world and rainy weather go hand in hand, so one of the best Scotland travel tips I can give is to make sure that you’re prepared to experience every season in one day.

The most valuable thing you can remember to pack when planning a trip is a waterproof/windproof jacket.

Even though a day might start out bright and sunny with not a cloud in the sky, it can turn at the flip of a switch and, without the proper clothing, you can end up getting completely soaked. So do yourself a favour and dress appropriately.

7. Make sure to book ahead during the high season

Gone are the days where you could just search for a vacancy sign the day of, or expect to find a table at the local pub without a reservation. No, if you’re planning a trip, especially in the high season of June to August you’re going to have to book ahead.

If you’re not planning on wild camping or cooking for yourself, you are going to need to have accommodation and dinner booked in advance.

8. Get off the main highways

If you’re going on a road trip make sure to get off of the main highways!

As I mentioned in tip 4, even though rural backroads might be windy, narrow, and full of sheep, they will also provide you with some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world, with every turn giving way to a gorgeous vista.

The smaller roads are infinitely more scenic than the big motorways and will definitely make your Scotland or Ireland road trip all the more memorable.

9. Eat local seafood

While British and Irish food may come with several preconceived negative stereotypes, much of the UK and Ireland is actively trying to remedy this and food is much better today than it ever has been.

And absolutely nothing is comparable to the incredible seafood available all along the Scottish coast or the wonderful oysters and salmon available along Ireland’s wild Connemara region .

Though there are many chippies to be found and the battered and fried fish is out-of-this-world delicious, there are also fantastic restaurants where you can get beautifully prepared, freshly caught local seafood.

Ireland especially is having its own food revolution with many local chefs reimagining their local cuisine and giving it a modern twist.

While the city of Cork is most notable for starting this trend, many other Irish cities have followed suit and there are myriad Michelin-starred restaurants throughout the Emerald Isle.

Even if these restaurants lie a bit outside of your Ireland travel budget , there are some more affordable restaurants, especially in bigger towns and cities, that serve incredible Irish food that will knock your socks off.

10. Drink (a lot of) whisk(e)y

Nowhere in the world can you find so much phenomenal whisky in such a small area. There are over 100 single malt whisky distilleries actively producing Scotland’s most popular export throughout the country and it would be a shame if you didn’t take this opportunity to tour at least one distillery and see how this wonderful spirit is made.

Ireland is no different and although Irish whiskey dropped in international popularity in the past couple of decades, it is seeing a massive resurgence. There are many fantastic whiskey distilleries throughout the country and it is very worth sampling Ireland’s famous firewater.

If touring a distillery bores you but you still love whisky, most pubs in Scotland and Ireland have impressive collections of Scotch or Irish whiskey at better prices than you could get anywhere in the world.

Head to a cosy pub with some live music and order a peaty dram of a fine single malt. That is a recipe for an unforgettable evening in the Scottish Highlands or Irish countryside.

These ten tips will help you have the best trip possible in the British Isles! Make sure to take time to get off of the beaten path and enjoy all of the things that Scotland and Ireland have to offer — you won’t be disappointed!

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland? Have you been? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Killarney Itinerary

13 Things To Do In Orkney Islands: A 3-Day Itinerary

A Perfect 2-Week Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Maggie: I appreciate your advice to rent a car and I agree. However, my wife and I are in our 80’s (I’m 88) and driving for us would be unwise. What advice do you have for us for a 10-14 trip to Ireland and Scotland? David

Hi David – if you’re unable to hire a car there are train and bus connections between major cities in Scotland and Ireland. If you want to venture somewhere a bit more rural, I suggest hopping on some organised day tours 🙂

Hi, Would you recommend exploring on your own or going on one of the many tours offered from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher? We are headed to Ireland in June and want to make the most of our time. Thanks, The Jacksons

It makes far more sense to do a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway city rather than Dublin. You can read about your options here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/cliffs-of-moher-day-trip/

I’m planning on a trip to Ireland and Scotland for 2023-24. What airline do you recommend and what do you think cost would be. I’m planning to visit on my own terms.

My husband and I are planning our first trip to Scotland and Ireland in 2022 to celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary. Since we have not traveled abroad before, your website has given me an excellent place to start planning. My ancestral home is a little town called Methven and we would like to do a handfasting ceremony there, if possible. Any ideas on who to contact for something like that?

Hi Linn, thanks for your kind words and I’m happy that our website has proved helpful in planning your trip! Sounds like you’ve got quite the adventure in the works. Unfortunately, I don’t know anything about handfasting ceremonies so I can’t be of any help in that regard. I hope you’re able to find what you’re looking for!

Experiencing a trip to Scotland and Ireland is on “my bucket list”, and I’ve decided to not wait to be invited, so I’m making plans for myself, in two years. Hopefully the world will be back to normal by then! Thank you for the tips and I will be looking for other resources to help plan my future trip.

Glad we could help, Beth! Hope you’re able to plan an unforgettable trip 🙂

Can you give more tips on how to get affordable yet amazing accommodations throughout a 20 day trip to Ireland. After reading your article, might add Scotland. Family of 4 (2 teens). Thanks!

Hi Teresa! I would recommend having a look at booking.com or Airbnb in order to find accommodation that would suit your family’s particular needs.

Hi Hugo. Not sure with the pandemic if you went to Scotland yet. But my husband and I are also looking into a trip to both Scotland and Ireland. We are also from South Africa and are thinking of going next year in September if all goes well. Have you had any luck with the Campervan idea? That sounds kinda brilliant. Thanks for the tips Maggie will definitely use them.

We are planning a Scotland Ireland trip and want to do it with Campervans. We are from South Africa and have never been to these two countries. do you have a prevered company that we can contact for these campervans to rent?

Thanks for your comment, Hugo! Unfortunately, we don’t have a specific campervan company to recommend as we haven’t done this mode of travel before. Scotland and Ireland are the perfect place for it, though!

I’ve physically never been to Ireland or Scotland but my soul has,for sure, and it has been pulling and haunting me to go for some time now!! I’m starting to plan a trip to mark and celebrate turning 50 in my life and I am so glad I came across your site to help me with the planning process where I’m looking to do a more ‘out of the box’ type trip instead of a more typical, traditional,touristy type visit. Thank you for sharing your experiences,suggestions and tips!!!

Thanks for your comment, Janeen! I’m glad you’ve found our website helpful for planning your trip. Scotland and Ireland ar both beautiful countries with so much to offer travellers and I hope you have an amazing time exploring 🙂 If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to get in contact

Planning a road trip around Scotland and Ireland in September. First time visiting, thank for the info.

Great tips! I have been to Ireland 2 years ago and now I’m planning a 3 week trip in Scotland and Ireland. I will definitely use your tips, thank you a lot for sharing.

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I have problem with motion sickness and my daughter may not enjoy 12 hours roadtrip.

Considering these two constraints, please advice on a good tour option.

7 replies to this topic

Consider some of the much shorter tours operated by the likes of Rabbies, Timberbush, HairyCoo, Discoverscotland etc.

Try something with less traveling like this which will still give you a taste of scenery that's better than Loch Ness.

https://www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/from-edinburgh/day-tours/west-highland-lochs-castles-day-tour

https://www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/from-edinburgh/day-tours/loch-lomond-national-park-stirling-castle-day-tour

Alternatively, have a day at the beach, get the quick train journey to North Berwick, visit the sea bird center, walk along the beach and have an ice cream at https://alandas.co.uk/gelato-north-berwick/

I have problem with motion sickness and my daughter may not enjoy 12 hours road trip. then totally forget a one day trip to Loch Ness, no one would enjoy it . There are so many nicer and nearer places.

Go to Pitlochry on the train for the day.

Please forget the Loch Ness trip. 12 hours on a coach, with very little time to stop and look around. Loch Lomond trip would be good and it has as many monsters as Loch Ness does.

Despite the name, Loch Ness tours are not the only way to see the Highlands and Loch Ness itself is amongst our poorest/most over promoted "attractions". Any of the west Highland Lochs and Glens/Castles - type tours offer better for less time on a bus, with more/longer stops and the Loch Lomond, Trossachs/Highland Perthshire tours offer a lot with even less travel time.

Consider a train journey instead of a coach trip which may be easier for all of you . Such as the idea in #2

Maybe the Kelpies, Loch Lomond and Stirling tour with more stops?

But yes if that won’t be enjoyable for all a short day trip instead by train.

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Politics latest: MSP who could decide Humza Yousaf's fate appears to reveal price for her support

Scotland's first minister says he will fight a vote in his leadership and is "very confident" of winning. Listen to this week's episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast while you scroll through the latest updates.

Friday 26 April 2024 18:00, UK

• Yousaf tells Sky News he'll 'fight' vote of no-confidence and is optimistic of winning
• MSP who could decide his fate seems to have named price for her support
• Connor Gillies:  First minister must reset relations with very people he's burned bridges with
• Explained: How did we get here - and what happens next?
• Coming up on Sunday: PM sits down with Trevor Phillips
• Tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction
• Sam Coates explains why the local elections matter
• Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

Rishi Sunak  sits down this Sunday with Trevor Phillips for a wide-ranging interview ahead of the local elections.

With the Rwanda bill becoming law this week and the PM announcing a commitment to increase defence spending, there's been plenty to talk about.

You can watch it in full from 8.30am on Sunday .

Trevor will also be joined by Labour's shadow health secretary Wes Streeting .

Embattled Humza Yousaf has told Sky News he will not resign as Scotland's first minister.

Pressure has been building on  the SNP leader  after he tore up the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens - prompting a no-confidence motion in his leadership and a threatened knife-edge vote.

However, Mr Yousaf, on a visit to Dundee that was arranged at short notice after he pulled out of a speech in Glasgow, insisted he was getting on with the job and accused the opposition of "playing games".

He said he would be writing to the leaders of all Scottish political parties to seek talks on making a minority government work.

He told Sky's Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies : "I intend absolutely to fight that vote of no confidence, I've got every intention of winning that vote of no confidence.

"And let me say to the opposition for minority government to work in the interest of the people of Scotland also requires the opposition to act in good faith."

Humza Yousaf's future as first minister is hanging in the balance ahead of a motion of no confidence next week.

Now, as leader of a minority government, his fate may be hanging on just one vote - that of a former SNP leadership rival. 

We take a look at how:

The numbers

In the Scottish parliament, the SNP has 63 seats out of 129 , two short of an outright majority;

The Conservatives have  31;

Labour has 22;

The Greens have  seven;

The Liberal Democrats have four;

The Alba Party has one ;

There is also one presiding officer Alison Johnstone, who is both an MSP and Scotland's equivalent of the Commons speaker.

How the numbers are expected to fall

The motion of no confidence was brought by the Scottish Conservatives.

The Greens, Labour and the Lib Dems have all said they are backing the motion.

That would translate into 64 votes against the first minister versus 63 SNP votes.

So the one Alba vote is expected to be key.

How it may all come down to one ... Ash Regan

Once an SNP leadership rival to Mr Yousaf, Ash Regan defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party last October. 

If she backs Mr Yousaf then that would mean both sides have 64 votes.

Ms Johnstone would then be expected to vote in favour of the status quo, so the first minister would survive.

But if Ms Regan votes against Mr Yousaf, then the opposition parties will have 65 votes against the SNP's 63, and the first minister would lose.

He wouldn't be compelled to resign in this situation, but he'd be under huge pressure to step aside.

More to come

And remember, Scottish Labour have lodged a separate motion of no confidence in the Scottish government. 

Alba have said it won't back that motion.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is battling to save his job as he faces a knife-edge no-confidence vote.

The SNP leader triggered a crisis at Holyrood after he dramatically brought the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens to an end.

The backlash has plunged Mr Yousaf's future into doubt, although party colleagues insist he will not resign.

How did we get here?

The Bute House Agreement - signed back in 2021 and named after the first minister's official residence in Edinburgh - brought the Green Party into government for the first time anywhere in the UK.

It gave the SNP a majority at Holyrood when the votes of its MSPs were combined with those of the seven Green members, and also made Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater junior ministers.

Without it, the SNP would need to have operated as a minority administration at Holyrood.

What caused the relationship to sour?

There had been mounting tensions between the largest party at Holyrood and their junior partners in government.

The Greens were angered at the SNP-led administration's recent decision to ditch a key climate change target.

That, combined with the decision to pause the prescription of new puberty blockers to under-18s at at Scotland's only gender clinic, resulted in the Greens announcing they would have a vote on the future of the power-sharing deal. 

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The 2 May local elections will see more than 2,600 seats at stake across 107 English councils.

Labour's Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham are among the 10 mayors up for re-election.  

Those in Blackpool South will also be voting for their next MP after ex-Tory Scott Benton broke Commons lobbying rules, triggering a by-election.  

With the Conservatives lagging behind Labour in the polls, the outcome will offer some insight on how voters in England and Wales feel ahead of the general election.

On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates to discuss why the elections are so important for the prime minister's future and where the key political backgrounds are.

By Daniel Dunford , senior data journalist

There might not be a general election just yet, but there are important votes that will define how the areas around us are run for the next four years. 

See what's happening where you are here:

With the local elections less than a week away, deputy political editor Sam Coates explains why they matter and what they might tell us about the upcoming general election.

Ash Regan - the MSP who could decide the future of Humza Yousaf - has appeared to name her price for her support in next week's no-confidence vote.

She has said, in a letter to Alba Party members, that investment in the Grangemouth refinery will be a key condition of her backing the first minister.

The refinery is currently due to shut as early as next year and move to being an import and export terminal.

Alba has launched a a campaign to sustain jobs at the refinery.

"A sign of good faith would be a significant government investment, reinforcing the campaign to save the Grangemouth refinery from closure," she says in her letter.

"I am requesting the undertaking to produce such an initiative in the early course.

"I am hopeful that the first minister will commit to such an initiative in the near future as a sign of our shared dedication to Scotland's welfare."

Ms Regan was once part of the SNP and ran in the contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as leader last year, the contest Mr Yousaf won.

She defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party in October. 

The battle for a town that no one there wants.

Sky News is reporting from Grimsby in the run-up to the general election as one of its Target Towns - a key constituency prized by both Conservatives and Labour - Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

But it turns out that Grimsby doesn't really want them.

It hasn't always been a town doused in apathy. 

In 2016, 70% of people here voted to leave the EU - one of the highest results in the country - and in the 2019 election, the constituency turned Tory for the first time since the Second World War.

But five years on, polling by Sky News found that since then, the number of people saying they "almost never" trust the British government to place the needs of the nation above the interests of their own party has nearly doubled - from 26% to 49%.

It's a stark but bleak view. Voters described both leaders as uninspiring and uninteresting.

When asked what they make of the current prime minister, words like "weak" and "performative" were used. 

Voters couldn't make their minds up about the Labour leader, saying they were unsure about him or his policies.

The lack of a clear dividing line between the two parties could be a problem in the general election, especially as both parties have been trying to show a bit more leg this week ahead of a fully-fledged election campaign.

Labour has shown a hint of more radical policies, with their announcement on aiming to nationalise railways within five years. 

But have they waited a bit too long to impress the people of Grimsby?

The Conservatives ratified their Rwanda policy into law, but voters here weren't hugely enthused by that either, with one member of the audience tonight proclaiming they care much more about housing and the environment. 

They asked - why is the centre of political debate about Rwanda and a policy we don't really care about?

Apathy might override this election.

By  Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Voters in Grimsby - one of Sky News's election Target Towns - have been offering their views on politics, politicians and "broken promises".

The electoral battle in Grimsby and Cleethorpes,  the Target Towns , will be fierce. Labour will need an 11.7 point swing to win this newly-merged constituency back from the Conservatives.

In 2019, residents in Grimsby voted Tory for the first time since the end of the Second World War. The old Cleethorpes constituency was always more of a bellwether, having voted Conservative since 2010.

However, it has shed some of its rural, Conservative-voting residents in the merger.

Speaking on the  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge , small business owner Shannon said she might not vote in the next general election later this year as she "just can't trust anything anybody says".

She said she has felt this way since Brexit - something Grimsby was overwhelmingly in support of - because "we were promised 'x' and 'y' and it hasn't happened, so I'm just totally disengaged from it".

Asked whether local MPs on the panel - Conservative Lia Nici and Labour's Melanie Onn - could change her mind, Shannon said "possibly", but reiterated how let down local people feel.

"We're promised a lot, but it's never delivered," she said. "Talk of things happening... and then it doesn't happen and people are just fed up... have been told this is what we're going to get, but it doesn't actually happen. And that's why people have just lost faith."

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