best weather to visit scotland and ireland

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The Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

Plan your Scotland trip based on what you want to do, see, and avoid.

Scotland may be a small country — about the size of South Carolina — but it offers an impressive variety of destinations and landscapes. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Glen Coe, and the Isle of Skye are all must-sees for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Scotland. To get the most out of your trip, you'll want to make sure you visit at the most opportune time.

Scotland's seasons fall into three main categories:

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to October
• Low Season: November to March

Each of the Scottish seasons offers advantages and disadvantages, so deciding when to visit will depend on your priorities. Whether you're hoping for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, or more affordable prices, here are the best times to travel to Scotland .

Ellen Lindner/Travel+Leisure

Most Popular Time to Visit Scotland

A majority of travelers make their way to Scotland in the warmer months. Tourist season in Edinburgh ramps up in June and peaks in August, with several major festivals — including the Edinburgh Art Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe — happening throughout the month. The capital's summer temperatures rarely surpass 70 degrees, so traversing the hilly city is usually pleasant.

Visitors also descend on Scotland from late May to September to experience the Highland Games , a Scottish tradition dating back hundreds of years. Towns around the country host their own versions of the Games, usually in the form of a one-day event featuring traditional Scottish sports (like tug-of-war and the hammer throw), as well as food, music, and dancing. The Braemar Gathering, held in September, is one of the best-known events, with the British royal family making an appearance in the small town every year.

Outside of the summer months, the winter holiday season is one of the most popular times to visit Scotland. Celebrations of New Year's Eve — called Hogmanay by the Scots — are particularly raucous. In Edinburgh, Hogmanay festivities draw more than 70,000 visitors every year.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Smaller Crowds

If you want to avoid the crowds on your Scottish vacation, consider traveling in the fall, winter, or spring. Most schools in the U.K. — much like in the U.S. — go on summer break in the months of July and August. By planning your trip outside of that period, you'll miss the throngs of local and foreign tourists whose travels are tied to their children's school schedules.

The Isle of Skye , with its rapidly increasing tourism profile, is a spot travelers would be especially smart to avoid in the busy summer months. Visiting in the off-season means lots more room to roam among the island's 600+ square miles. There are other advantages too, from increased odds of spotting a puffin (they're most common on Skye in early spring) to the views of stunning snow-capped mountains in the winter.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather

Scotland — like the entire United Kingdom — isn't particularly known for its weather. More often than not, it's drizzly and a little dreary. When the weather shows off, though, there's nothing more remarkable than a sunrise peeping over a Scottish glen or the sun setting behind Edinburgh Castle .

To experience Scotland's best weather, you'll need to plan your trip at the right time — and have a bit of luck on your side. Temperatures are highest in the summer, but weather can be fair in the springtime, too. According to the Scottish tourism bureau , the period from March to May is the country's driest, and its temperatures rarely dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit — though they don't often climb above 55 degrees, either. Temperatures are similar in the fall, a season that's also known for stunning foliage. Scotland rarely sees extreme winter weather (particularly in southern cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow), but starting in November, you'll want to shift your schedule to account for shorter days — the winter sun can set as early as 4 p.m.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Lower Prices

As temperatures drop, so does the number of tourists in Scotland — and, accordingly, the prices. If you want to save money, book your trip in the low season, from November to March. While some more fragile historical sites may close during this time due to weather concerns, there are plenty of other things to do, including skiing in the Cairngorms, curling up by a fireplace in a cozy boutique hotel (like The Fife Arms in Braemar), or exploring the Christmas markets in Edinburgh.

One exception to this rule, though, is the period directly surrounding the winter holidays. Since Christmas and New Year's are popular travel times in Scotland, deal-seeking visitors may want to avoid scheduling a trip during the final weeks of December or the first week of January.

Best Time to Explore the Highlands

To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible. That said, the snow-capped mountains are a sight to behold, so if you plan a Highlands road trip in the winter, pack a warm winter coat and make sure your rental car is properly equipped to handle any icy conditions.

Best Time to Visit to Avoid Midges

From May until September, travelers have a high chance of running into midges , especially in the Highlands. These flying, biting insects prefer wet, humid, and cloudy conditions and come out in full force in July and August. To avoid the midges, book your trip to Scotland between late September and early May.

Worst Times to Visit Scotland

The worst times to visit Scotland will depend, of course, on each traveler's preference. If your top priorities are avoiding big crowds and pesky midges, July and August are months you should miss. (The high prices that accompany this busy season can be another dissuading factor.) August is especially busy in Edinburgh, when a host of culture fests descend upon the capital, bringing millions of art lovers along with them. This is great for those who want to partake in the superb cultural offerings, but not so great if you want a quiet sightseeing trip.

If your main goal is optimal weather, meanwhile, the winter months should be avoided. With its dreary skies, short days, and chilly temperatures, the winter is best suited for visitors in search of cozy indoor pursuits, not (relative) sun and warmth.

To avoid extremes in both climate and crowd size, travelers should consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

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Europe , Ireland , Scotland , Travel

The perfect scotland and ireland itinerary.

Trips to Ireland and Scotland are some of my favorites to help plan. Both countries are some of my favorites and they can be easily combined. This Scotland and Ireland itinerary will help you plan the best trip!

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• Should I go to Scotland or Ireland?

I often get asked by my readers which trip they should take, Ireland or Scotland? While both destinations are amazing and beautiful with so much to offer, and I always try to help them make the right choice for their needs, I don’t think this has to be an either-or choice. If you’re really struggling with the Ireland vs Scotland debate, why not choose both? When you use this itinerary to travel to Ireland and Scotland you’re getting the best of both worlds within two weeks.

Here's a Short Cut

Best Time to Visit Ireland and Scotland

Fly between scotland and ireland, ferry from ireland to scotland, ireland and scotland tours, ireland scotland map, scotland and ireland itinerary, day 1: arrive in dublin, day 2: explore dublin, day 3 & 4: take an overnight trip to the west of ireland, day 5: wicklow mountains, day 6 & 7: northern ireland and back to dublin, days 1-2: explore edinburgh , day 3: scottish highlands, days 4-6: isle of skye, day 7: depart from edinburgh.

The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is usually off-peak in shoulder season between April-May and September-October. If you go to Ireland and Scotland during these times you’ll avoid the crowds, but still be able to enjoy nicer weather than in the winter.

Getting Between Scotland and Ireland

Trips to Ireland and Scotland offer the best of both worlds and can be done affordably too. Getting from Ireland to Scotland is easy and affordable. There are many companies that offer Ireland and Scotland tours that are great, or you can choose to take the trip on your own.

There are plenty of cheap flights from Ireland to Scotland and from Scotland to Ireland. You can fly with Ryanair for as little as $21 USD! Honestly, that’s cheaper than the cost of a nice dinner! So if you really are having a hard time deciding between Ireland and Scotland, go ahead and do both!

Learn how to find cheap flights to and from Ireland and Scotland by reading my   guide to flying for cheap or nearly free here.

If you have your own car or are using this itinerary as part of a larger European trip, you might also consider taking the ferry from Ireland to Scotland or vice versa. This would also work if you’re planning to fly in and out of the same airport. However, if you are flying into Scotland or Ireland and plan to fly out of a different airport, I would not recommend taking the ferry. Especially since flights between Scotland and Ireland are so cheap! If you do decide to go for a rental car in one country and leave it in the other, it will cost you at least $1500 USD ($500 for a cross border fee and $500 for a one-way rental fee). And then you have the cost of the ferry on top of that which is a few hundred dollars. While sailing across the North Chanel is truly beautiful, It’s not worth the expense if you will be renting a car.

Visiting Ireland and Scotland can seem a little daunting on your own and tours can be a great way to go if you’re feeling a little nervous about it. These are some great Ireland and Scotland tours that will help you get a great overview of these two destinations:

This interactive map should help you plan your Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can click on each destination to find more information.

I outline a great Ireland and Scotland itinerary below, but if you want to skip all the planning and simply use this downloadable, printable, detailed itinerary , you can find it here.

Get the Full Itinerary I’m giving you a detailed day-by-day Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can do this itinerary in any order you wish, but this seemed the most logical to me. This itinerary begins in Ireland and ends in Scotland, where you can choose to fly home from, or simply fly back to Ireland for a round trip ticket. The choice is yours. I recommend flying in and out of wherever you can   get the best deals .  I generally find Ireland cheaper to fly to from the United States but have occasionally found great deals to Scotland as well.

Ireland could literally take you years to explore! So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland , I’m giving you just a week in this itinerary of things to do in Ireland , but I think it will show you some of the best places to visit in Ireland in a short amount of time. If you’re interested in a longer, more detailed trip to Ireland, you can check out my full  Ireland Itinerary. 

For the first day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, arrive in Dublin airport and adjust to the time change. Dublin is Ireland’s capital city, so you’re sure to visit places while you’re here. Keep yourself awake until a reasonable hour (between 8 pm and 11 pm) and wake up early the next morning.

Now that you’re hopefully feeling well-rested and not too jet-lagged, it’s time to explore the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Don’t miss these stops in Dublin:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Trinity College Library
• St. Stephens Green
• Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Cafe
• Little Museum of London
• Take a   Bus Tour   of Dublin
• Howth Cliffs
• Phoenix Park

Take an entire day to explore the west of Ireland. If you’re self-driving it will take about 3.5 hours to get to the west coast known as the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re feeling nervous about driving in Ireland there are several great day trips from Galway that will take you to the west for this 2-day trip.  This amazing tour   explores the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Killarney National Park, with an overnight stay in Dingle.

Don’t miss these stops on your trip to the West:

• Killarney National Park (learn more about   Killarney   here.)
• Muckross House & Traditional Farm
• Muckross Abbey
• Killarney Town
• Cliffs of Moher
• Blarney Castle

Spend a day in the beautiful County Wicklow. Be sure not to miss these:

• Powerscourt Estate: Dating back over 200 years, these are some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland
• Glendalough: Beautiful lakes surrounded by stunning mountains!
• Silver Strand Beach: A beautiful and secluded beach
• Wicklow Gaol: This old jail is a great place to learn some interesting and sad Irish history.
• Wicklow Town: Adorable Irish town

Spend two days in beautiful Northern Ireland! You can take the three-hour drive yourself or take  this great two-day tour   that will take you to all the best sites. Be sure not to miss these:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Giant’s Causeway
• Dark Hedges

In between your exploration, make sure you also visit the city center and get to experience local dishes and listen to traditional Irish music while you’re in town!

Now that you’ve enjoyed a full week in Ireland, it’s time to hop over the Irish Channel and visit the beautiful and rugged Scotland! Most flights will take you into Edinburgh where you can either rent a car or spend a few days in the city then do some tours in the highlands. If you want to experience a great overview of the country, you can do my full  Scotland Itinerary.

I normally like to advise people to get out of the big cities and explore the countryside, but Edinburgh has so much to offer that I think it’s worth spending at least 2 days here. You can learn about what to do in Edinburgh in  my detailed guide here,   but be sure not to miss these top spots:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile
• St. Gile’s Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Princes Street Gardens
• Take a    Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Visit the Elephant House Cafe where JK Rowling ate
• Victoria Street
• Hike Arthur’s Seat
• Calton Hill
• Cairngorms National Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a castle, be sure to check out these awesome castle hotels in Scotland.

Spend day 4 exploring the highlands of Scotland. Visit Inverness and try and find the Loch Ness Monster! You can drive here or take   this easy day tour from Edinburgh.   Be sure to read my   guide to the highlands   and don’t miss these sites:

• Urquhart Castle
• Fort William

You can’t visit Scotland without taking a trip to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Skye. It’s rugged beauty and history combined with its rugged island charm is sure to win your heart! Driving to the Isle of Skye can be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. The roads are one lane so you must share the road with oncoming traffic. If you’re not comfortable driving in those conditions, it might be a good idea to take a tour to the Isle of Skye.

Rabbie’s does an amazing 3-day tour that comes with your own comedic  kilted tour guide to take you through the Isle of Skye while learning all about its interesting past and natural wonders. You can find the  tour here. 

Be sure to read   my complete guide to the Isle of Skye   before going.

Whether you decide to drive to the Isle of Skye on your own or take a tour, don’t miss these sites:

• The Quiraing 
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Museum of Island Life & Flora MacDonald’s Grave

On the last day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, travel back to Edinburgh and either fly home from there or fly back to Dublin to fly home.

I hope this itinerary will help plan many trips to Ireland and Scotland. They are both such amazing destinations and I know you’ll love them! If you need help planning, please feel free to reach out  Facebook   or  Instagram , or send me an email me  [email protected]

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When is the best time to visit Scotland?

May 26, 2023 • 5 min read

Summer in Scotland brings sunshine and fun times...but also the dreaded midges © Solstock / Getty Images

With historic yet buzzing cities, remarkable wildlife, the epic landscape of the Highlands and more than 800 islands, Scotland is a dream destination.

The blustery North Atlantic weather that rolls onto the country’s shores (amazingly, Scotland contains more than 10% of Europe ’s total coastline) makes the weather hard to predict, but it does fall into distinct seasons. Indeed, Scotland is more seasonal than many other European destinations, so it pays to consider the best time to visit before your trip.

Summer brings festivals – Edinburgh’s world-famous one comes to mind – and long, light-filled nights. Winter, on the other hand, is a cozy time of wilder weather and whisky-warmed cozy nights inside, yet also the best time to stargaze and see the Northern Lights. Savvy visitors arrive during the shoulder season, with its dry weather and cheaper prices. Savor a dram as you consider the best times to visit Scotland.

July and August are the best time for festivals

Scotland’s social calendar fills up in summer. School holidays kick off in July, as does the busiest time of year for Scottish tourism. It’s high season for bird-watchers as well, and the best time to visit Shetland ’s 100 islands and Orkney ’s 80. It stays light late in Orkney, while darkness is practically non-existent in far-north Shetland’s “simmer dim” (the island’s summer-evening twilight). And there are no west coast midges. It’s a great time to visit the Outer Hebrides too, and take in the biggest festival there, “ Heb Celt .”

Edinburgh becomes the cultural epicenter throughout August, with myriad festivals, ceilidhs, whisky extravaganzas and more taking place all over the mainland and islands, as locals and visitors enjoy the long northern summer nights. The program is actually closer to half a dozen festivals than one single event, so book travel and accommodation well in advance. This is the peak month for sighting minke and killer whales on the west coast, with the basking sharks arriving to join the bountiful dolphins.

If you’re looking to get outside, expect warm weather but also some rain (pack the waterproofs). Alas, the midges are at their worst on the west coast just in time for high season.

May, June and September give you sunshine without the crowds

Many Scots rate May as the best month: long days, rising temperatures, dry weather...and no midges. Wildflowers are in bloom on the Hebridean machair , hawthorn hedges flower and cherry blossoms grace city parks. Celebrate whisky on Islay  at its brilliant festival, or swish your kilt at the first big Highland Games of the season.

June evenings bring daylight till 11pm – even later in the Northern Isles – giving you endless time to explore. Border towns are strung with bunting to mark gala days and the deeply historic Common Ridings; it’s the best time to be in border country. The gannets and puffins are back, so visit the cute birds on a cruise to Bass Rock .

September brings the end of the school holidays, the midges are dying off, wild brambles are ripe for picking in the hedgerows, and the weather is often dry and mild – an excellent time of year for outdoor pursuits . Aviemore and Fort William are the best adventure-sports hotspots.

October to April is the perfect time for Northern Lights and cozy nights

From mid-October to March, the weather can be cold and wet, though the influence of the Gulf Stream keeps temperatures from plunging as low as you’d expect at this latitude. Snow rarely lasts for long, except in the mountains. 

October sees the trees put on their autumn show, with Highland Perthshire and the Trossachs great places to savor their fiery reds, deep oranges and rich gold hues. The tourist season winds down, and thoughts turn to log fires and malt whiskies in country-house hotels. The Enchanted Forest takes advantage of the dark evenings with its festive sound and light festival and the Royal National Mod celebrates all aspects of Gaelic language and culture.

The days may be getting shorter in November, but this is a fine time to explore galleries and pubs in Scotland’s vibrant cities. And for seeing Scotland’s “Big Five” wildlife before the red deer head high into the hills; the other four are harbor seals, otters, golden eagles and red squirrels, with Arran the only island boasting all five. St Andrew’s Day is celebrated across the Scottish nation. Christmas events and markets kick off in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

December's dark afternoons and often cold and wet weather is relieved by seasonal festivities. There is nothing quite like Hogmanay (New Year) in Scotland, as the capital boasts a huge street party on the big night, plus days filled with festivities. Fire festivals swirl around Comrie and Stonehaven , with myriad events dotted around the country. Come ready to party (and reserve your accommodations well in advance).

Scotland shakes off its Hogmanay hangover in January and gets back to work (a day later than the rest of the UK, on January 3), but only after taking a dip in the sea in places like South Queensferry and Broughty Ferry on New Year’s Day. Then Burns Night comes along with events across Scotland. It’s cold and dark, making January the best time for stargazing and searching for the Northern Lights.

February is the coldest month of the year and is usually the best for adrenaline-pumping winter mountaineering and ice climbing. You can ski and snowboard across the country’s half-dozen ski resorts, too. The days are getting longer, the much anticipated Six Nations Rugby Tournament kicks off, and snowdrops begin to bloom.

March can be a quiet month in Scotland, but as the weather improves, spring is on the horizon. Laughter is in the air with Glasgow’s comedy festival , while its annual film festival continues the cultural vibe in Scotland’s largest city. The bluebells explode into bloom across the country in April, as the woods on the shores of Loch Lomond come into flower and the ospreys return to their Loch Garten nests .

The weather is improving, and the days are getting longer. Music flows through the streets at the Shetland Folk Festival , and rugby players take to the field in Melrose in the Borders at the world’s oldest Sevens tournament . 

This article was first published February 2021 and updated May 2023

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When is the best time to visit Scotland?

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• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and fall (September to November).

Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 43°F to 59°F, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms. The summer months (June through August) are the warmest of the year, with extensive daylight hours in July and August the further north you go.

The crowds begin to disperse from late October. Early to mid-November can be a wonderful time to see Scotland’s glorious fall foliage. However, many sites close for winter from mid-October. Snowy conditions in December through to February can make travel tricky, although you’ll be rewarded with spectacular wintery scenes and roaring log fires.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Scotland

Visiting Scotland in January

January is bitterly cold in Scotland, especially in the east of the country where average temperatures hover around freezing during the daytime. Edinburgh is beset by icy winds from the coast, and much of the country is under snow, especially the mountainous areas. Hogmanay is the Scottish festival for New Year, usually marked by live music, fire dancers and fireworks. Burns Night, a celebration of national poet Robert Burns, is on the 25th of the month and is usually observed by poetry readings accompanied by whisky and haggis.

Events & Festivals

• Burns Night is a celebration of Scotland's national Poet, Robert Burns, usually celebrated with poetry readings, whisky and haggis.

Visiting Scotland in February

February is still a cold month and receives a fair amount of snow. The Fort William Mountain Festival is held during February, celebrating all things mountainous with films, events and talks by famous mountaineers.

• The Fort William Mountain Festival is a celebration of all things mountainous, with talks by famous mountaineers, films and events.

Visiting Scotland in March

In the south of the country temperatures start to rise and spring begins to emerge. In the Highlands and Cairngorms , snow remains on the mountains but the lower slopes may begin to melt.

Visiting Scotland in April

Temperatures are slightly warmer, although again the mountainous areas will remain cold with snow on the peaks. This is usually when the ski areas of the West Highlands and the Cairngorms close. April is typically the driest month in Edinburgh. Beltane, a pagan fire festival, is held at the end of the month, marking the end of winter. In Edinburgh, thousands climb Calton Hill for a pagan and fire-themed performance.

• Beltane is held at the end of the month, a pagan fire festival marking the end of winter.

Visiting Scotland in May - June

Spring flowers and foliage really emerge in May and into June, with the snow mostly melting from all but the highest peaks. Public holidays at the beginning and end of May make these weekends particularly busy. From June, Scotland’s midges make an appearance, lasting through until the end of September. Daylight hours are long, with around 17 and a half hours by the end of June in central Scotland, increasing the further north you travel. Many Highland games are held in May and June, although these do continue through to September.

• The Highland Games feature heavy athletic events such as tossing the caber, tug-o-war as well as dance competitions and piping.

Visiting Scotland in July - August

This is peak summer in Scotland, with temperatures averaging at around 66°F. Schools break for the summer in July and this is the busiest time of year to travel. Edinburgh Festival Fringe is held throughout August, coinciding with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular military parade in front of the castle.

• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival. Held during most of August, it features all kinds of performances including comedy, dance and theater.

Visiting Scotland in September

September is the wettest month in Scotland, and temperatures decrease a little. Despite the schools returning, this is still a busy time of year to travel. The most famous of Scotland’s Highland games, the Braemar Gathering, is held in September just north of Pitlochry.

Visiting Scotland in October

Vibrant autumn foliage reaches its glorious peak toward the end of October, and the weather is typically cool and slightly drier than in September. Certain hotels and sites start to close toward the end of the month.

Visiting Scotland in November

Temperatures are fairly cold across Scotland in November, particularly in the north and the east. Autumn foliage still on the trees at the start of the month drops toward the end, and the first snowfall is often in November. This is a much quieter month to visit Scotland, although some sites may be closed. St Andrew's Day, held on the 30th of the month, is a celebration of Scotland’s patron saint, marked with feasts, music and dancing.

• St Andrew's Day is a celebration of Scotland's patron saint, marked with feasts, music and dancing, held on the 30th of the month.

Visiting Scotland in December

December has the shortest amount of daylight of the year, with long nights and cold days. It’s a relatively dry month and can see beautifully crisp, clear and sunny days.

• Hogmanay is the Scottish festival for New Year, usually marked by live music, fire dancers and fireworks.

Scotland Climate Guide

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When is the best time to visit Scotland?

You can easily fall in love with Scotland at any time of the year. But which month is the best to visit? From seasonal highlights to events, weather to trips and days out ideas, this is our month-by-month guide to visiting Scotland.

A group of cyclist at Corrie Fee, Glen Clova

What season should you visit Scotland?

Edinburgh Castle with cherry blossom trees viewed from Princes Street

Enjoy spring in Scotland with blossoming flowers, wildlife waking up after months of hibernation, iconic attractions reopening after winter, and the suns’ rays getting warmer week by week.

Although the spring months still have their chillier days, it’s the perfect time to kick start your outdoor adventures, city break, or a rural getaway for a spot of tranquillity in nature. Our events don’t disappoint either. Choose from a range of arts and culture festivals, such as the Spring Fling Open Studios, or take the wee ones for a day out at the Edinburgh Science Festival.

Landyachting on West Sands Beach

Welcome in the warm Scottish summer days as our stunning seaside locations, vibrant city festivals and adrenaline pumping outdoor locations become the places to be. From watersports, Munro bagging and hundreds of castles to choose from, to local seaside delicacies, mountain biking trails and island hopping, you and the family are spoilt for choice this summer.

If you’re not sure where to start, or if you need an extra bit of inspiration for your trip to Scotland, why not try out one of our itineraries? Ranging from weekend getaways and slow travel suggestions to week-long tours and iconic film & TV locations, where will your first stop be?

Faskally Wood in autumnal colours

One of the most scenic times of the year, autumn in Scotland is one for the photographers. Admire the changing colours of the leaves and the crisp air on a woodland walk, witness centuries old traditions coming out to play during Samhuinn and Hallowe’en, or spend cosy nights with friends around bonfires.  

There’s plenty of gardens, forests and untouched landscapes to explore here, partnered with historic attractions, quaint local towns and villages, and even local produce and goods to enjoy.

Ptarmigan Restaurant at the top of the Cairngorm Mountain Railway

The season has come to wrap up warm and delve into all the festivities, celebrations and traditions of winter in Scotland. Picture a stunning frost under a sunny sky across mountains, parks, gardens, famous city landmarks, ancient sites and more during winter, with a host of events, parties, hearty food and mulled wine to get you in the festive spirit.

Aside from Christmas, winter in Scotland is a magical time for short break or getaway. Snuggle up in a warming cabin for two, embark on a solo getaway for a spot of relaxation, pamper yourself at a spa retreat, test your skiing and snowboarding skills on the slopes, or organise your next family get-together at a rustic Scottish lodge with panoramic views across the surround landscapes.

Rainbow over Glen Affric

Scottish weather is always a popular topic of conversation, and we’re here to debunk the myths and stories you may have heard.

We have clear weather changes each season, but you can also experience a mix of weather in one day – we think it just adds to the fun of it all! The best way to make the most of your time in Scotland is to prepare for the weather – a waterproof jacket, an extra warm layer, an umbrella, and shoes you don’t mind getting a bit wet and you’re sorted for your trip of a lifetime.

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Best time to visit Scotland and Ireland: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland? Choosing the right time to visit these picturesque destinations can greatly enhance your travel experience. From exploring the vibrant city of Dublin to venturing into the scenic landscapes of Ireland and Scotland, this ultimate guide will help you determine the best time to visit and provide useful tips for avoiding crowds. I lived in Ireland for several years and learned that the one thing you can’t rely on is the weather.

In Donegal they say you can experience 4 seasons in one day which is absolutely true. The truth is that both Scotland and Ireland are so beautiful that it doesn’t matter if the weather sucks the trick is to be prepared for it. So don’t plan your trip around what may be called ‘the best time of the year’ go when you want to go and just enjoy.

• 1. Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder temperatures and blooming landscapes. You can witness the country’s iconic castles, such as the Edinburgh Castle , surrounded by colorful gardens. The famous Highland Games also begin in May.
• 2. Summer (June to August): Like Ireland, Scotland experiences its peak tourist season in summer. The weather is generally warmer, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the Isle of Skye, or attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
• 3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Scotland showcases stunning foliage, making it an excellent time for hiking and photography enthusiasts. You can also experience events like the Braemar Gathering, a traditional Highland games event.
• 4. Winter (December to February): Scotland’s winter months can be cold and wet, but they offer a unique atmosphere. The country’s famous Hogmanay celebrations take place during this time, especially in Edinburgh, featuring fireworks and street parties.

• 1. Spring (March to May): Spring in Ireland offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. You can enjoy St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Dublin and witness the beautiful countryside turning green.
• 2. Summer (June to August): The summer months bring longer daylight hours and generally pleasant weather. However, this is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds especially in popular tourist spots like the Cliffs of Moher or the Ring of Kerry.
• 3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Ireland showcases colorful foliage and local festivals. The weather remains mild, making it an ideal time for exploring the countryside and visiting historical sites like the Rock of Cashel or the Giant’s Causeway.
• 4. Winter (December to February): Winter offers fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodations. However, the weather can be unpredictable, ranging from mild to chilly and wet. It is a great time to experience traditional Irish music sessions in cozy pubs .

• Tips for avoiding crowds:

1. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when tourist numbers are lower. 2. If visiting during peak seasons, try to visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. 3. Explore less touristy areas or off-the-beaten-path destinations to have a more authentic and crowd-free experience. 4. Book accommodations and attractions in advance to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment. 5. Consider taking a guided tour or hiring a local guide who can provide insights and help navigate through crowded areas more efficiently.

Travel to Ireland and Scotland

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• Travel the Wild Atlantic Way or Ireland's Ancient East

Frequently asked questions on the best time to visit Scotland and Ireland

The weather plays a crucial role in determining the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland. Here’s what you can expect during different seasons.

When planning your trip to Scotland, it’s essential to consider the weather conditions and the activities you want to partake in. The best time to visit Scotland is during the summer months from June to August when you can enjoy milder temperatures and longer daylight hours.

Summer is the peak season in Scotland, with July and August being the busiest months for tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the shoulder season in May or September is a good option. During these months, you’ll still experience moderate weather, and there will be fewer tourists, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes of Scotland with ease.

If you’ve decided to visit Scotland during the summer, it’s important to plan your itinerary well in advance and book accommodations and popular tours ahead of time. This is because tourist spots can get crowded, and availability may be limited. However, the summer months offer the advantage of longer daylight hours, giving you more time to explore and sightsee.

If you don’t mind the colder weather, visiting Scotland in winter can be a magical experience. The landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, and you can enjoy activities such as skiing or snowboarding in the Scottish Highlands. Just make sure to pack warm clothing and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.

While Scotland is known for its unpredictable weather, the months of May and June tend to have more sunny days. This is the perfect time to explore the highlands and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Spring in Scotland , from March to May, brings milder weather with temperatures ranging from 8 to 12 degrees Celsius (46 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit). This is a great time to witness the blooming of flowers and enjoy the vibrant landscapes of the Scottish countryside.

During summer in Ireland, you can expect mild temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket as rain showers are common throughout the year.

Winter in Ireland and Scotland can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0 to 8 degrees Celsius (32 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit). However, if you’re prepared with warm clothing, winter offers unique experiences such as festive markets, cozy pub visits, and the chance to see the stunning landscapes covered in snow, although I have to admit what they call snow here in Ireland is a light dusting which freaks everyone out.

If you’re wondering when to go to Ireland, the answer depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. The best time of year to visit Ireland is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is relatively mild and the days are longer.

While summer is the peak season in Ireland, some travelers prefer to visit in May or September when the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer crowds. These months are considered the shoulder season in Ireland, offering a great balance between good weather and more affordable prices for accommodations and activities.

The shoulder season in Ireland includes the months of April, May, September, and October. During this time, you can expect milder weather compared to the summer months, but it’s still important to pack layers as the climate can be unpredictable. The advantage of visiting during the shoulder season is that you’ll encounter fewer crowds at popular tourist spots and have more flexibility in planning your itinerary.

If you want to avoid the crowds altogether, consider visiting Ireland during the winter months. While the weather may be colder and there are shorter daylight hours, you’ll have a more peaceful and intimate experience as tourist numbers are significantly lower. Plus, you might even get the chance to see Ireland covered in a beautiful blanket of snow. However be aware that many tourist sites are not open over the winter months although you will find ones like Kilkenny Castle and Glenveagh open it really depends on the size of the site and its popularity with tourists.

When creating your itinerary for Ireland and Scotland, there are a few must-visit places that should be on your list. In Ireland, Dublin is a vibrant city with a rich history and bustling nightlife. Explore the iconic Guinness Storehouse, visit Trinity College, and take a stroll along the River Liffey and don’t miss some traditional music sessions in the pubs.

In addition to Dublin, some other must-visit places in Ireland include Newgrange , the Dingle Peninsula , and the Causeway coast in Northern Ireland. In Scotland, don’t miss out on Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye.

When planning your Ireland and Scotland itinerary, it’s important to consider the daylight hours. During the summer months, the days are longer, allowing you to make the most of your time exploring. In contrast, winter days are shorter, so you may want to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

While planning your trip to Ireland, don’t forget to include a visit to Northern Ireland. Explore the cities of Belfast and Derry-Londonderry, marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Causeway Coast, and learn about the Troubles at the murals in Derry and Belfast.

Tips for avoiding crowds in Ireland and Scotland

If you prefer a more tranquil and less crowded experience, consider these tips:

Opting to travel during the shoulder season, either in spring or autumn, will help you avoid the peak tourist crowds. You’ll still experience pleasant weather and have the advantage of enjoying popular destinations with fewer tourists.

In Ireland, consider visiting lesser-known destinations like Galway , which offers a vibrant cultural scene and stunning landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way . Dingle Peninsula and County Donegal are also worth exploring for an off-the-beaten-path experience. Head to some of the phenomenal National Parks like Glenveagh in Donegal, Glendalough in the Wicklow mountains and you can even head to a Dark Sky Reserve to see the stars. Up in the north of Donegal on the Inishowen Peninsula you may even get a chance to see the Northern Lights or perhaps some puffins . 

While popular tourist spots like the Cliffs of Moher and Edinburgh Castle are must-see attractions, consider visiting them early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds. Additionally, booking tickets in advance can help you skip the queues.

When creating your itinerary, consider including the following:

Take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle to learn about Scotland’s rich history, or explore the Scottish Highlands on a scenic train journey. Consider visiting the Isle of Skye for its breathtaking landscapes and the chance to spot wildlife.

Ireland is known for its stunning landscapes, such as the Killary Fjord , Connemara and the Giant’s Causeway . Include these natural wonders in your itinerary to experience the true beauty of the Emerald Isle. Within these stunning landscapes you can spot ancient castles , some that are haunted and some that have now been converted to hotels .

Spend a few days exploring Dublin’s vibrant streets and immerse yourself in the city’s rich literary history. Visit the Guinness Storehouse, stroll through St. Stephen’s Green, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Temple Bar.

Finding the driest time in Ireland and Scotland

If you prefer drier weather during your trip, consider the following:

Ireland has a moist and temperate climate with rainfall throughout the year. However, the driest months are generally April, May, and June, so visiting during this time can increase your chances of experiencing drier weather.

Galway, located on Ireland’s west coast, tends to have drier weather compared to other parts of the country. This makes it an ideal destination if you’re looking for a slightly sunnier experience in Ireland. Galway has some of the biggest festivals in Ireland for example the Galway International Oyster Festival.

I have to say I adored Galway its a great friendly city however having said that in the summer months it does turn into one big party town so be aware of location or you might get really annoyed with the noise and drunken students in the streets.

Travel the Wild Atlantic Way or Ireland’s Ancient East

The Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East are two incredible destinations in Ireland that offer unique and unforgettable experiences. The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along the western coast of Ireland, spanning over 2,500 kilometers and encompassing breathtaking cliffs, stunning beaches, and charming coastal villages . Traveling along this route allows you to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Ireland’s nature while also indulging in traditional music and delicious seafood .

On the other hand, Ireland’s Ancient East takes you on a journey through thousands of years of history and showcases the country’s rich heritage. From ancient historical sites like Newgrange and the Rock of Cashel to medieval castles and monastic ruins, this region is a treasure trove for history lovers. Exploring the Ancient East allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and warriors and uncover the secrets of Ireland’s past. Whether you choose to travel the Wild Atlantic Way or explore Ireland’s Ancient East, you are sure to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and rich history that these regions have to offer.

Now that you have a comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland, start planning your trip and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose to visit during the summer for warmer weather or explore the magical landscapes in winter, Ireland and Scotland are sure to captivate you with their beauty and charm.

Q: When is the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland?

A: The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is during the shoulder seasons, which are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). This is when the weather is mild, the landscapes are vibrant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season.

Q: What is the average temperature in Ireland ?

A: The average temperature in Ireland ranges from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer. However, it’s worth noting that the weather in Ireland can be quite unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.

Q: What is the best month to visit Ireland?

A: The best months to visit Ireland are May, June, and September. During these months, you can expect mild weather, long days, and fewer tourists. Additionally, these months are also great for experiencing traditional Irish festivals and events.

Q: Is summer a good time to visit Ireland?

A: Summer is indeed a good time to visit Ireland, especially if you want to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally warmer, and there are longer daylight hours. However, it’s important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions can be crowded.

Q: What is the weather like in Ireland during spring?

A: Spring in Ireland brings mild weather with some rain showers. The temperatures begin to rise, and the landscapes start to bloom with colorful flowers. It’s a great time to explore the countryside and enjoy outdoor activities.

Q: What about winter in Ireland?

A: Winter in Ireland can be cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F). However, if you’re a fan of Christmas markets and cozy pub nights, winter can be a lovely time to visit Ireland. Just be sure to pack warm clothing and an umbrella.

Q: Are there Scotland tours available from Ireland?

A: Yes, there are several tour operators that offer Scotland tours starting from Ireland. These tours provide a convenient way to explore both countries and experience the stunning landscapes, castles, and rich history they have to offer.

Q: What is the busiest time of year to visit Ireland?

A: The busiest time of year to visit Ireland is during the summer months of July and August. This is when schools have their summer holidays, and many tourists flock to Ireland to enjoy the pleasant weather and attractions. Expect popular sites to be crowded during this time.

Q: Should I visit Ireland for the weather?

A: While Ireland may not be known for its consistently sunny weather, it offers much more than just that. The country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality make it a wonderful destination to visit regardless of the weather.

Q: What are the best places to visit in Ireland?

A: Some of the best places to visit in Ireland include Dublin , Galway, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway, Killarney National Park , and the Aran Islands . These destinations offer a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and unique experiences.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is during the summer months of June to August. This is when the weather is at its mildest and the days are longest, allowing for more time to explore the stunning landscapes. In Ireland, this is also the time for various festivals and events, such as the Galway International Arts Festival and the Dublin Horse Show.

Similarly, Scotland hosts the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe during this period, which is the world’s largest arts festival. Moreover, the summer months offer the opportunity to witness beautiful blooming flowers, vibrant green countryside, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions can be crowded and accommodation prices may be higher. Therefore, it is advisable to book accommodations and popular attractions in advance and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn for a quieter experience. Ultimately, both Ireland and Scotland offer incredible beauty and unique cultural experiences year-round, so any time you visit will surely be memorable. 

Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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• Scottish Seasons & Months

The Best Time to Visit Scotland — Our Complete Guide

We often get asked, “When is the best time to visit Scotland?” It’s not an easy question to answer – the country is easy to fall in love with no matter what time of year you decide to visit. But, the best time of year to visit Scotland also depends on the traveller. Nature lovers look forward to the lovely Scottish summer months, while travellers who want fewer crowds will love the winter months.

Planning what time of year you want to visit Scotland can be overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve broken down each season and month so that there’s something to look forward to no matter when you choose to travel. From events, day trips, seasonal highlights, and more — read our complete guide for the best time to visit Scotland!

Let’s jump right into it.

In This Post

Spring in Scotland

As the ice melts, the winter winds calm to make way for the beautiful Spring season in Scotland. As the country’s attractions break free from their winter hibernation, travellers can look forward to visiting historical sites, seeing Scottish wildlife and attending events. Spring in Scotland offers a wealth of opportunities for travellers before the peak season arrives in the summer months.

Early Spring in Scotland still has chilly days, making packing warm clothes necessary. Towards the middle of the season, however, visitors can look forward to sunny days and moderate temperatures as the year transitions to Summer. The season also offers plenty of attractions tailored around the theme of growth and rebirth, including the Spring Fling Open Studios, the Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival, and the fiery Beltane Festival.

Let’s break down the season month by month, so you know what to expect during the Spring months of March, April, and May.

Weather: Mixture of Rainy, Cloudy, and Dry, Sunny Days

Average Temperature: 9℃

March begins the yearly transition from Winter to Spring, and is a turbulent month for guessing the weather. Most of the snow starts to melt along the slopes, but the snow-capped peaks will persist for a bit longer.

For those who want to savour the last of the winter months before Spring fully sets in, take a road trip to Scotland’s beautiful Cairngorms and Highlands. While you’re in the Highlands , ensure you jump at the opportunity to explore the outdoors without worrying about crowds. It’s the best time to see historic attractions, as long as you don’t mind bringing a jacket.

Early and late March also brings numerous art festivals to look forward to, including the Glasgow Film Festival, the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, and the Braemar Mountain Festival. Pair the festivities with delicious in-season seafood —brown trout, oysters, and sea kale are all at their peak season during March! It’s also your last chance to try roe venison, fresh squash, and parsley.

For more information on Scotland in March, take a look at our complete guide to equip yourself for an early Spring holiday.

Weather: Cloudy and Dry, Sunny Days with rare Rainy Days

Average Temperature: 12 ℃

April holds milder weather but is still one of the driest months of the year (bring chapstick!). It’s also one of the last opportunities for visitors to enjoy the snow-capped peaks for skiing and snowboarding (April sees the closure of ski resorts in West Scotland and the Cairngorms). Cyclists and nature lovers can look forward to seeing baby sheep and birds throughout the abundant natural landscapes.

Travellers can look forward to Beltane in Edinburgh , the fiery pagan festival that sees thousands climb Carlton Hill to enjoy fire-based performances and herald the end of Winter. There’s also the Edinburgh International Science Festival and Edinburgh Harp Festival, making Scotland’s capital the place to be during April. While you’re there, make sure to enjoy the in-season Spring greens!

The Highlands are exquisite during April, thanks to the off-peak season, with attractions defrosting from their Winter break. If you’re a road trip enthusiast, watching the pockets of flowers bloom from the car window as you drive along the quiet North Coast 500 is the ultimate getaway before the Summer heat. Take a look at our complete guide to Scotland in April right here.

Weather: Cloudy and Dry, Sunny Days

Average Temperature: 13 ℃

As the year turns to May, the thought of Winter becomes a distant memory. Flowers and fauna become more abundant, and the dry weather makes it perfect for planning trips without fear. But May is most well known for being “Whisky Month” in Scotland, a country that treats whisky as though it were water. Whiskey enthusiasts should make use of the last bit of this shoulder season to make their rounds of Scotland’s best distilleries .

While May is an attractive time thanks to warmer weather, you should be aware that May has the most public holidays, making attractions much busier. May is an excellent time to climb Munros, with the Newton Stewart Walk Fest, Arran Mountain Festival, and more encouraging climbers before the Summer heat arrives (and the return of the dreaded midges).

Food and drink festivals are abundant during May, and the month heralds the arrival of tender lamb, strawberries, and goat’s cheese—hearty food to accompany a wee dram or two of Scotland’s finest whiskies. We’ve written more about why May is one of the best times to visit Scotland here.

Summer in Scotland

Come June, July, and August, and Scotland sees its Summer season. In the summer, Scotland comes alive with tourists, all eager to see the plentiful attractions throughout the nation.

This peak season is overflowing with activities to do, from playing a few links courses in St Andrews , attending art and cultural festivals like the Highland Games, and the opportunity to see Scotland’s thriving wildlife.

The summer months are an excellent time to visit the country (if you don’t mind a few crowds here and there). It’s the time of year when Scotland offers the most things to do, so let’s break down what you can expect from each month while visiting Scotland.

Weather: Mostly Sunny Days, with some Overcast

Average Temperature: 15℃

By June, Scotland becomes a playground for visitors. With extended daylight hours, you can enjoy filling up your schedule with things to do without fear that the day will slip away from you. The Highland Games are a particular highlight of June (although they begin in May) and feature traditional music and sports born from Scottish history—the perfect chance to get stuck in!

Speaking of the Highlands, visitors to the West Coast and Isles of Scotland can look forward to dolphins during the June season. Leaping from the water, Scotland’s wildlife is one full display and a simple boat tour away. The average temperature also makes hiking, climbing, and exploring Scotland’s natural attractions a delight, with a special mention of the cycling routes around the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond .

Foodies can look forward to some of Scotland’s finest produce at its most fresh! Lobster, fresh raspberries, strawberries, tayberries, and fibre-rich greens taste their best during June and July. The Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh takes place in June and offers the best opportunity to taste local cuisine. We’ve written a guide about Scotland in June for you to read right here.

Weather: Mostly Sunny Days

Average Temperature: 18 ℃

Welcome to the peak of the Scottish summer! If weather is your top priority when considering the best time to visit Scotland, then July should be the top of your list. While July is quite a bit more busy than the shoulder seasons, there are still plenty of quiet locations in the Outer Hebrides and Isles to see. Orcas and seals are especially common to see during the July season in the Shetland Isles , and new seal pups are born during this month.

Another advantage of visiting Scotland in July is the long daylight hours. At the height of July, you can experience over 17 hours of daylight hours, with extended twilight. While a 3 AM sunrise may sound dreadful, you won’t be complaining when you have hours and hours to explore some of Scotland’s top historical sites like Balmoral Castle , Calanais Standing Stones, and events like the Inverness Highland Games.

Berry season is abundant in July, with rare mushrooms like chanterelles also in peak season during Scotland’s warmest months. Foodies will have their fill pairing of these berries and fungi with the Scottish coastal cockles and winkles. Take a look at our extensive guide to Scotland in July if you’re interested.

Average Temperature: 18℃

Last but not least, August is the last of the Scottish summer months you can enjoy. Scotland likes to spend the last of the summer holidays in still and puts on some of its best festivals during its peak tourism season. You can look forward to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the Edinburgh International Festival!

If large crowds aren’t your thing, then why not make use of the long daylight hours and go island hopping in the Inner and Outer Hebrides? Many of Scotland’s puffin population are still around in August before they migrate south for the Winter. Bird hides and animal reserves are especially active in August, so if you’ve ever wanted to see red squirrels, pine martens, and deer, then now’s your chance to do so.

Finally, August is a great time for food — especially grouse, lamb, apples, and mushrooms. If you want a hearty meal with ingredients as fresh as you can get them, then make sure August is on your agenda. Here are some additional festivals, foods, and fun you can look forward to when visiting Scotland in August.

Autumn in Scotland

As the Earth tilts away from the Sun, Autumn creeps over the Scottish Highlands. While the long days of Summer shall be missed, Autumn is a shoulder season that you should heavily consider when planning your trip to Scotland. It’s one of the best times to go to Scotland, not only because of the good weather and smaller crowds but the lower prices too!

While Autumn brings with it more rain, it’s the perfect opportunity for photographs as the landscape transforms into a paradise of oranges, yellows, and reds. Bring your camera, as Autumn is the most beautiful of the four seasons in Scotland. The Highland Games wrap in Autumn, with the Braemar Gathering offering you a final chance to see traditional games and Scottish culture at its most epic.

That’s only the tip of the iceberg. Let’s tackle Autumn month by month so you know exactly what to look forward to.

Weather: Cloudy with Rain and some Sunny Days

Average Temperature: 16℃

Since September marks the transition between Summer and Autumn, you get the best of both worlds! The summer weather persists for a few weeks, crowds peter out, and the midges finally cease their pestering. If you’re planning on a city break to see Edinburgh Castle , explore Glasgow , or see Loch Ness, then September is a fantastic time to do so.

September is the last month where you can enjoy the delicious fruit harvest, with apples, pears, blackberries, and strawberries. Late September also brings with it the finale of the Highland Games, the Braemar Gathering. This beautiful event just north of Pitlochry is several months of games culmination and an unmissable attraction for anyone who loves Scottish culture (and the British Royal Family).

Check out our complete guide to Scotland in September if you want to know more about this excellent tourist month.

Average Temperature: 12℃

October is a food lover’s season! The autumnal colours of the country offer a beautiful setting to enjoy a wide range of cuisines that are as fresh as they can be. You can enjoy seafood like lobsters, oysters, and clams until mid-October, as well as Scottish game like red deer, wild duck, and grouse. Late October also offers the chance to eat fresh pumpkin and parsnips, especially with Halloween around the corner.

If you’re a big foodie, October is considered by many to be the best time to visit Scotland and enjoy their traditional foods. But food isn’t the only reason to visit Scotland in October, for the beautiful autumn colours make the country art piece to be appreciated on forest paths and untouched landscapes. While the weather in Scotland in October can be temperamental, a crisp woodland walk is well worth the extra layers.

The arrival of October also allows you to get your first glimpses of the stunning dark skies at sites like the Galloway Dark Forest Park . The Northern Lights are still rare to see, but the northernmost corners of the country are your best chances to catch them. While you’re patiently waiting for the Northern Lights, why not attend the book festivals like the Scottish International Storytelling Festival or the Orkney Storytelling Festival?

Here are a few more excellent things to do while visiting Scotland in October.

For tourists, November marks the closure of many attractions and businesses until Scotland’s Spring of the next year. However, for those who don’t mind the arrival of snow on the peaks and in the Highlands, there are a few amazing things to do even as Autumn transitions into Winter. The open attractions, like the Cairngorms National Park and National Galleries , are a haven to explore during November due to fewer crowds.

The highlight of November is St Andrew’s Day, which takes place on the 30th of the month. The day celebrates Scotland’s patron saint, and is a great reason to drink a few drams of whiskey with the locals (if the temperatures drop weren’t enough of a reason already)!

November’s serene and quiet atmosphere provides a superb opportunity to go camping in glamping near Scotland’s finest attractions—imagine roaring log fires, excellent whiskey, and the unfiltered Scottish landscape surrounding you.

Winter in Scotland

Although the daylight hours are the lowest, many attractions are closed, and winter in Scotland is anything but boring. In fact, after the November lull, the country comes alive with local festivals and activities, especially in the festive season. From Hogmanay, Burns Night, and many more, you can be treated to a side of Scottish culture that few people see.

Scottish winter food is also sublime—equal parts hearty and rich—and pairs excellently with a local dram of whiskey. The Winter season in Scotland is a hidden gem for those who don’t mind a bit of rainy weather. Here is the month-to-month winter season broken down.

Weather: Dry, Cold Days with Occasional Showers

Average Temperature: 7℃

The December period is packed full of unique activities and things to do, with many of Scotland’s most celebrated holidays condensed into the month. Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve parties, and the famed Edinburgh Hogmanay Party are more than enough to put you in the holiday mood! The Winter festivals come with their Scottish traditions and food , including Cranachan, Cock-a-Leekie soup, and Christmas Toffee Pudding.

Touring the nation, the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd leave their home in the Cairngorms to show school children and adults alike the magic of Santa Claus and Christmas if you manage to align your schedules to when the Reindeer Herd visit, you won’t be disappointed!

Finally, the arrival of snow on Scotland’s mountains means that winter sports activities open up once more. Ski resorts and snowboarding are available in the far north of Scotland’s mountains and munros, with the Winter Scotland tourist season flocking to these snow-laden paradises. Please read our full Winter in Scotland guide before booking your trip.

Weather: Cold Days, with Intermittent Rainy Days

Average Temperature: 6℃

After the celebrations in December, January offers a relaxed and calm opportunity to bask in the serene Scottish Winter before the tourist cycle starts anew. If the thought of enjoying the snow-covered Scottish landscape with a loved one, away from the cities, is your ideal holiday, then January is the best month to visit Scotland.

But January isn’t without its events either, for on the 25th of January is Burns Night, the birthday of famed poet Robert Burns. Burns Night is usually celebrated with a Burns Supper (the branding is strong), often Haggis with tatties and neeps (mashed potatoes and turnips). It’s a really delicious addition to any foodies’ holiday, so try it out of Scotland!

Looking for more hidden gems for Scotland in January? Read our complete guide.

Our final month is the shortest, but that doesn’t mean that February is lacking in things to do. In fact, as the Winter weather begins to peter and the low season rounds back to Spring, opportunities arrive for the conscious traveller to Scotland. February is an excellent time to go birdwatching , with many migratory geese, ducks, and swans flying to Scotland to shelter themselves.

Budding birdwatchers should check out the birds at the Loch of Strathbeg , Mull of Galloway, and North Ronaldsay . In addition to being a bird watcher’s paradise, February is also host to several festivals that should not be missed. The Fort William Mountain Festival, which celebrates all things mountain climbing related and the Snowdrop Festival at Edinburgh’s Royal Botanical Garden should be going straight into your calendar.

Valentine’s Day also takes place in February, so if a snow cabin overlooking the Scottish Highlands with good food and drink sounds like a nice break to you, then February is your month. Read more about February in Scotland right here.

When are the Best Seasons to Visit Scotland?

The best seasons to visit Scotland are late Spring, Summer, and early Autumn. The two shoulder seasons compromise improving weather conditions with fewer crowds, while the summertime Scottish weather is the envy of the nation.

When is the Best Month to Go to Scotland?

The best months to go to Scotland are May, June, September, and October. These four offer the most activities to do and the best weather to enjoy Scottish culture and attractions. The other months on the Scottish calendar, like December and July, are definitely honourable mentions, but nothing can beat the opportunities of these months.

Weather in Scotland: Pro Tips & Tricks

Scotland’s weather can be extremely unpredictable, no matter what time of year you’re visiting. There are some tips and tricks you learn from living in Scotland to ensure that you keep the weather from getting the best of you. Here are some of the top things to remember when planning for the weather during your visit:

• Scotland’s west and east coasts are often supremely windy, so pack a jumper and windbreaker no matter what time of year. The West Coast often gets the most rain in Scotland, while the Lowlands are the mildest.
• Always carry something warm with you, even if you’re planning to visit in Spring or Summer.
• Bring sunscreen during the Scottish summertime. The last thing you need on your holiday is a sunburn.
• Prepare for the worst. Scotland is known for having four seasons in one day, so always have your umbrella, hoodie, and boots.

How to Avoid Midges

During Summer, Scotland experiences the arrival of the midges. These flies are partial to biting and sucking the blood of unsuspecting tourists and can be quite a painful nuisance if not combated. If you want to make the most of the outdoors without coming back looking like you have chickenpox, follow these tips to avoid the pesky critters:

• Avoid dawn and dusk-time activities.
• Wear insect-repellant protection.
• Burn Citronella candles.
• Avoid still ponds and lakes.
• Don’t leave your skin unprotected; cover up as much as you can.
• Keep the windows closed to your apartment or B&B.

Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding the best time to visit Scotland isn’t easy. If you still have some burning questions on when and why you should visit during the year, then read through our extensive frequently asked questions. Equip yourself with the most practical advice and make your holiday the best it can be!

When is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?

The shoulder seasons are often considered to be the best time to visit Scotland. Why? Well, you avoid midges, large crowds, and inflated tourist prices while still enjoying a comfortable climate.

Late Spring or early Autumn is the best time to travel to Scotland, with May, September, and October considered to be the best months to visit Scotland if you want to avoid crowds. For those who don’t mind sharing attractions, it’s difficult to argue against June as the best time of year to go to Scotland.

Winter in Scotland is still beautiful and offers its own attractions, but November is the worst time to visit Scotland as the weather turns for the worse and many of Scotland’s most famous attractions close for the year (usually as early as September!).

What Should I Pack for Scotland?

Always pack something warm and cosy, no matter what time of year you plan to visit. Whether it’s the Highlands and Isles or the Lowlands, Scottish weather is famously unpredictable, with overcast clouds and showers of rain showing up unannounced even during the drier months of the year. A warm parka, jacket, boots, and long pants are the essentials, but we’ve written an entire piece on how to dress for Scottish weather if you want more information.

When is the Peak Season in Scotland?

June, July, and August are considered to be the peak season in Scotland. These months are during the Scottish Summer, the best time to visit Scotland weather-wise. But with the peak season comes crowds, so come expecting a queue or two at many of Scotland’s most famous attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, Balmoral Castle , the Cairngorms National Park, and more.

The peak season offers the most things to do in Scotland, with festivals, musical events, nature walks, and more, all taking advantage of the long daylight hours.

Graham Grieve

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The Best Time to Visit Ireland (Pros + Cons of Each Month)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 26, 2024

There is no single best time of year to visit Ireland, and I’m saying that having lived here for 35 years.

‘Best’ is dependant on  you . For example , if you want to visit when the weather in Ireland is likely to be good. ‘Best’ will be summer.

Below, you’ll find the pros and cons for each month to help you decide the best time to visit Ireland based on your likes and dislikes .

But first, a quick overview:

• Summer (Jun, Jul + Aug): Warmest months. Crowd/flight prices are at peak
• Winter (Dec, Jan + Feb): Coldest months. Crowd/flight prices are lower
• Autumn (Sept, Oct + Nov): Days long in Sept + Oct. Short + wintery in Nov
• Spring (Mar, Apr + May): Tends to be rainy in Mar + Apr. Summery in May

The best time to visit Ireland

If you take 20 seconds to look at the illustration above, you’ll get a quick insight into the months in Ireland and what to expect from each.

Below, you’ll find an overview of each month with info on average temperatures, festivals, what to wear in Ireland during that month along with  travel tips for Ireland .

Click to enlarge image

Ireland in January can be very hit and miss. The average temperature in January is 7°C/44.6°F with average lows of 3°C/37.4°F.

January is the best month to visit Ireland if you are working with a tight budget and you are willing to take a gamble with the weather.

• Prices : If you’re visiting Ireland on a budget , flights and accommodation are cheaper
• Crowds : The popular attractions in Ireland will be quieter, as this is off-season

Disadvantages

• The weather : The days tend to be cold, wet, and windy
• Daylight : The sun rises from 08:29 and sets from 16:38
• Closed attractions : Some seasonal attractions will be closed

Visiting Ireland in February can also be risky weather wise, with average highs of 8°C/46.4°F and average lows of 2°C/35.6°F.

Spring is still far from the horizon and the days are short and chilly. In the past, we’ve had heavy snow fall, flooding and stormy weather in February.

February is the best time of year to go to Ireland if you have a limited budget and you aren’t too phased by potentially poor weather conditions.

• Prices : February is off-season in Ireland, so flights and accommodation are cheaper
• Crowds : Ireland’s usually busy attractions will be quieter (the Guinness Storehouse and Giants Causeway will always draw crowds, though)
• Weather : Similar to January – cold, wet and windy
• Daylight : The sun rises at 07:40 and sets at 17:37
• Seasonal attractions : Some seasonal attractions will remain closed

Many people want to visit Ireland in March to attend a St. Patrick’s Day festival or to soak up the buzz surrounding March 17th.

March marks the arrival of spring in Ireland. In years past, we’ve had heatwaves in March and stormy weather. 

March is the best time to go to Ireland if you have a sizable budget and want to experience St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Spring has sprung, the days are longer and the weather isn’t as cold as the previous months.

• Weather : March marks the start of spring. There are average highs of 10°C/50°F and average lows of 4°C/39.2°F
• Long ish days : The sun rises at 07:12 and sets at 18:17
• Prices : The period around March 17th sees prices skyrocket. The end of the month (Easter) can be pricey, also
• Weather : The weather can be very changeable. Over the last five years, we’ve had snow storms, heavy rainfall and scorching weather
• St. Patrick’s Day crowds : Crowds are at their peak (it’s for this reason that, for many, March won’t be the best time to visit Dublin )

in April, the weather has picked up, the days are longer and there are average highs of 13°C/55°F and average lows of 4°C/39.2°F.

The only issue with April, aside for the potential for bad weather, is that schools get two weeks off, which results in a shortage of accommodation in some places.

April is best time of year to visit Ireland if you’re working within a budget (after Easter) but want plenty of daylight hours to explore the island.

• Flights : The cost of a trip to Ireland is much less in April, thanks to lower flight prices
• Long days : The sun rises at 06:23 and sets at 20:00
• Weather : The weather can to be nice and mild
• Easter holidays : Schools get 2 weeks off around Easter, which can drive up the cost of accommodation
• Weather : The weather  can  also be terrible (see our April weather guide )

Along with September and October, May is the best time to visit Ireland. This is the shoulder season and the weather is mild, the days are long and both prices and tourist numbers are yet to skyrocket.

I.e. the weather is mild, the days are nice and long and we’ve haven’t yet reached the summer holidays, so places aren’t too busy (see our guide to Ireland in May for more).

• Weather : The weather in May can  be good, with mean temperatures ranging between 9.0°C/48.2°F and 13.0°C/55.4°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:17 and sets at 21:26
• Summer buzz : Long, mild days and the incoming summer tends to bring a lively atmosphere to many towns and villages
• Festivals : This is when they really start kicking off (see our Irish festivals calendar)
• Weather : Yep – it’s a pro and  a con – the weather in May can also be awful (it was last year!)
• Prices : Accommodation and flights will be near peak level price-wise
• Crowds : Better weather and long days means more people tourists

June in Ireland marks the arrival of summer, bringing with it warm and often dry weather and average highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11.6°C/52.88°F.

This is peak season in every sense – tourist numbers jump as do the price of flights and hotels.

June is regarded as the best time to travel to Ireland by many visiting tourists as the weather tends to be good, temperatures are mild and there’s plenty of daylight hours.

• Weather : Weather tends to be dry and warm with highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11.6°C/52.88°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:03 and sets at 21:42
• Festivals : Numerous music festivals in Ireland  take place during June
• Prices : Demand is at its highest, so you can expect to spend more for flights and hotels
• Crowds : As June is peak season in Ireland, expect places to be more crowded

July is the best time to go to Ireland if you’re looking for good weather. Although it’s not guaranteed, it’s more likely to be fine in July than during many other months.

Personally, I head away for one week in Ireland every mid-July and, for the most part, we always get decent weather (see our guide to Ireland in July for more info).

• Weather : We get average highs of 19°C/66.2°F and lows of 12°C/53.6°F
• Long days : The sun rises at 05:01 and sets at 21:56
• Summer buzz : Long, balmy days tend to bring tourists and a lively atmosphere to many towns, villages and cities
• Prices : Summer is peak season, so you’ll be paying more for hotels, B&Bs and Airbnbs
• Crowds : As the schools are out for the summer, expect more crowds travelling around the island, especially to the likes of Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula

August boasts long days, warm weather and plenty to see and do (see our counties hub for endless places to visit).

As was the case with July, there’s several pros and cons for visiting Ireland in August , many of which revolve around the demand for accommodation and crowds.

August is the best time to go to Ireland if peak prices and crowds don’t bother you. The trade off is mild weather, long days and a busy festival calendar.

• Weather : It’s usually good with highs of 18°C/64.4°F and lows of 11°C/51.8°F
• Long days : You’ll have 16 lovely hours of daylight to wander
• Summer buzz : Again, the summer months bring a buzzy atmosphere to many towns
• Prices : Yep – prices are still at peak levels
• Crowds : The likes of the Dingle Peninsula , the Inishowen Peninsula , the Ring of Kerry and other tourist hot-spots will be very busy

Ireland in September is when the shift from a busy summer season takes place. Tourist numbers drop and the kids go back to school.

This is Ireland’s shoulder season (the season between peak season and the off season) and it’s a great time to explore.

September, along with May and October, is the best time to visit Ireland as prices drop, the days are long, the weather is mild and there’s less crowds.

• Crowds : As kids have gone back to school, there’s less crowds
• The weather : The average high temperature tends to hover between 13°C/55.4°F and 16°C/60.8°F
• Flights : Flights should be a little cheaper as this is the shoulder season
• Long days : The days are starting to shorten, but the sun still rises early at 06:33 and sets at 20:15
• Weather : Yep, a pro and a con. The weather, as always, is unpredictable. With that being said, we’ve had some great Septembers recently

October in Ireland is Autumn and you’ll find many places blanketed in orange leaves and the weather is cool and crisp.

Ireland experiences average highs of 13°C/55°F and average lows of 6°C/42°F during October

October, along with May and September, is the best time to go to Ireland thanks to lower flight and hotel prices, relatively long days and its often dry days with cool temperatures.

• Weather: We often get Octobers that are sunny, crisp and dry
• Crowds: Ireland’s usually busy attractions will be less crowded as we’re no longer in peak-season
• Prices: Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track locations will be cheaper (you won’t notice a huge difference in the hot-spots)
• Prices: You should find that flights are cheaper than in peak-season
• Shorter days : By mid-October, the sun won’t rise until 08:00 and it sets at 18:40
• Weather : The weather in Ireland in October is unpredictable (see our October weather guide )
• Mid-term : Schools break in Ireland at Halloween for a week and hotel prices jump

Visiting Ireland in November comes with its pros and cons. On the plus side, many towns and villages come alive with Christmas markets from mid-month.

On the con side, it’s winter , so the weather can be all over the place. November tends to be cool and crisp with an average temperature in Ireland in November between 12°C/53.6°F and 9.5°C/49.1°F.

November is the best time to travel to Ireland for a city break. Many cities (Galway, Dublin, Cork and Belfast) holding Christmas markets.

• Crowds : You’ll encounter fewer crowds at the usually busy attractions (although places with Christmas markets will be busy)
• Prices : Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track towns in Ireland will be more affordable
• Flights : Should be cheaper as we’ll be in the depths of the off-season
• Short days : The sun doesn’t rise until 07:23 and it sets early at 16:53
• Seasonal attractions : Some seasonal attractions in Ireland’s quieter villages in towns will be closed
• Weather : The weather could  be wintery. We’ve had mild, stormy and freezing cold Novembers in the past few years

December marks the arrival of Christmas in Ireland and you’ll find most towns and villages alight with fairy lights.

The average temperature for Ireland in December tends to be similar to November, coming in at around 5°C/41°F, but this can vary.

December is the best time to visit Ireland if you’re happy to chance the weather and you want to experience Christmas markets, cosy pubs with big open fires and less crowds.

• Festive buzz : Most towns and villages in Ireland will be decked out in Christmas lights
• Crowds : You’ll encounter fewer crowds at the usually busy attractions
• Prices : Accommodation in the more off-the-beaten-track towns and villages will be cheaper
• Flights : Flights can be pricey with people flying home for Christmas
• Short days : Sun rises at 08:16 and sets around 16:10
• Weather : The weather in December has been mild for several years, but there’s also a good chance of rain and strong winds

The best time to go to Ireland climate wise

For most, the best months to visit Ireland will be the ones where the weather is at its best. For those planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, it’ll likely be the off-season months.

Below, I’ll give you an overview of the climate in Ireland by month in some of the tourist hot-spots, like Killarney. This data comes from Met Eireann , the Irish Meteorological Service.

Need help with your Ireland itinerary ? We recently published the world’s  largest library of Irish Road Trip guides (and it’s free!)

Summer (June, July and August)

Autumn (september, october and november), winter (december, january and february), spring (march, april and may).

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Monday 8th of March 2021

Hi! Thank you so much for all of your wonderful tips! My husband and I are planning to bring our adult daughters (24 and 29) to visit at the end is September. We are very excited! Should we stay in Dublin and then take our guided tours from there? We will have 9-10 days. Thank you! Janine

Thursday 27th of February 2020

We just booked a trip to southern Ireland for November. I am very excited. Can you recommend some must do's while we are there?

Wednesday 4th of March 2020

If you hop into our guide to the counties of Ireland you'll find heaps of things to do!

Thursday 30th of January 2020

Hi Keith Thankyou for the great read. My daughter and I are wanting to travel to Ireland for Xmas from Australia. As it will be cold n rainy which doesn’t really bother us, but worried we mighten get to see a lot of attractions would many be closed? Cheers Toni ?

Saturday 1st of February 2020

If you pop in the name of the attraction into Google and visit the official site you should get an idea of whether or not they'll be open or close when you're visiting.

Everywhere will be closed on Christmas Day with many places also staying closed on December 26th, but that can change from attraction to attraction.

The Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

Scotland, a country within the United Kingdom, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. It occupies roughly one-third of the northern part of the island of Great Britain and includes over 790 islands, predominantly in the Hebrides and Northern Isles. 

Scotland’s geography is diverse, featuring the mountainous Highlands in the north and northwest, the flatter Lowlands across the center, and the hilly Southern Uplands along the southern border.

Scotland also has a diverse and often unpredictable climate. The country experiences three major seasons, each with its own unique characteristics: spring, summer, and autumn.

Its extensive and varied coastline stretches over 6,160 miles, encompassing cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky shores. Famous for its lochs (lakes), Scotland is home to Loch Ness, known for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Britain by surface area.

Scotland’s natural beauty, combined with its unique culture and history, make it a fascinating country with a distinct identity within the United Kingdom.

Most Popular Time to Visit Scotland

The most popular time to visit Scotland is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This period is known for its relatively warm weather, with average daily temperatures around 16-17°C, and longer days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning landscapes.

Summer is also the season for many special events and festivals, including the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, which is a highlight for arts and cultural activities. However, it’s important to note that summer is also the busiest time, so expect more tourists and higher accommodation prices.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Smaller Crowds

The best times to visit Scotland for smaller crowds are during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, providing ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

You can enjoy popular tourist attractions like the Edinburgh Castle and the Isle of Skye without the large crowds that are common in the peak summer season. Additionally, accommodation and activity costs are generally lower during these times.

In spring, particularly from April to June, you can experience the pleasant Scottish outdoors, with opportunities for hiking and attending cultural festivals like the Edinburgh International Festival.

Autumn, particularly from September to October, is also a great time to visit, with stunning fall foliage in the Highlands and fewer tourists. This season is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, with cooler temperatures and less rain compared to other times of the year.

However, be aware that many popular tourist attractions start closing for the winter season in early November. If you’re planning to visit in autumn, it’s a good idea to check the opening times of specific attractions in advance.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather

The best times to visit Scotland for good weather are typically during the spring (late March to May) and fall (September to November). During spring, temperatures range from 43°F to 59°F, and the country experiences a renewal of its natural beauty, with blossoming flowers and wildlife.

Summer, spanning June to August, is also a popular time due to warmer temperatures averaging 15-17°C (59-63°F), longer daylight hours, and an abundance of activities and festivals. Autumn in Scotland is characterized by mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage, although some tourist sites begin to close for winter from mid-October.

However, it’s worth noting that Scottish weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a day. So, while these seasons offer the best chances for pleasant weather, visitors should be prepared for varying conditions.

Best Times to Visit  Scotland for Lower Prices

The best times to visit Scotland for lower prices are generally during the off-peak travel periods. According to various sources, these periods include late autumn (November 1 to December 12) and after Christmas (December 26 to mid-March). During these times, you can expect fewer tourists, which often leads to lower prices for flights, accommodation, and activities.

Another time to consider for budget-friendly travel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer a balance of mild weather, smaller crowds, and more affordable prices compared to the peak summer season.

However, it’s important to note that while you can save money by traveling during these periods, some popular tourist sites may be closed or have limited hours, especially in the winter months.

Best Time to Explore the Highlands

The best time to explore the Scottish Highlands is typically from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally milder, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the stunning landscapes of the region.

The long daylight hours in summer also allow for more time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. However, this period is also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors, especially in popular areas like the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness.

It’s important to note that while summer offers the best weather, the Highlands can still be unpredictable with rain and wind, so proper preparation and clothing are essential.

Best Time to Visit to Avoid Midges

To avoid midges in Scotland, the best time to visit is either in the late autumn and winter months, from late October to April, when midge activity is minimal.

Midges are most active in warm, wet conditions typically found in the summer months, especially from May to September. Therefore, planning a trip outside these peak midge seasons can ensure a more comfortable experience, especially in the Highlands and other rural areas of Scotland​.

Worst Times to Visit Scotland

The worst times to visit Scotland are generally considered to be the late autumn and winter months, from November to February. During this period, the weather can be particularly cold, wet, and unpredictable, with shorter daylight hours, limiting outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Additionally, many tourist attractions operate with reduced hours or may be closed, especially in rural and highland areas. This period also sees the possibility of snow and harsh weather conditions, which can affect travel plans.

However, if you’re interested in winter sports or enjoy the scenic beauty of snowy landscapes, this time could still be appealing.

Final Thoughts

From the rugged beauty of the Highlands to the historical allure of Edinburgh and the cultural vibrancy of Glasgow, Scotland is a blend of natural splendor and historic charm.

Each season presents its own appeal, with summer being ideal for festivals and outdoor activities, while autumn and spring offer quieter exploration with milder weather.

Winter, though less favorable due to cold and limited daylight, still charms with its snowy landscapes. Scotland’s distinct identity, reflected in its traditions, cuisine, and arts, makes it a captivating destination year-round

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

One Week in Scotland

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

 Peter Watson / Getty Images

The best times to visit Scotland are August to through mid January, the seasons of the top urban festivals, the blooming heather, the winter parties and the rugged great outdoors. July and August are the warmest months but they are also the months most plagued by tiny biting insects. So what is best for you has a lot to do with whether you're a city mouse or a country mouse and if you love indoor or outdoor pursuits.

Scottish Weather

Scottish weather is unpredictable, varying from warm and damp through crisp and sunny to blustery and very cold — sometimes all on the same day. When it comes to daylight hours, it's a land of extremes. Winter days can have as little as seven hours of daylight in mid-December, while in midsummer Scotland experiences the longest days in Britain. In Glasgow , Scotland also has the second rainiest city in the UK.

But you can read a book in daylight after 10 p.m. on the shores of Loch Lomond in June, enjoy color soaked sunsets as the long rays of the Northern sun sink below the clouds in autumn and get sunburned skiing in the Cairngorms in January.

Autumn is Best for the Highlands

Scotland's Western Highlands are covered in heather that blooms in shades of purple, lavender and pink at least twice a year and sometimes three times. The best colors appear in October. In the autumn chill, most of the heather turns mottled shades of rich orange, rust and amber punctuated with patches of green. You are much more likely to enjoy crisp, sunny weather at this time of year. The angle of the sun in Scotland's northern latitudes gives light a special golden quality making for truly beautiful views. Visit The Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park , within easy reach of Glasgow, for the autumn heather. And anywhere in the counties of Argyll & Bute or the Scottish Borders is worth touring for autumn color. It's also a great time of year for a cruise on a Scottish loch, particularly Loch Lomond or Loch Katrine. Or a climb up Arthur's Seat , Edinburgh's extinct volcano.

Peak Season in Scotland

The summer months, when there is the best chance of good weather, are the busiest. The museums and attractions are full, the campsites are packed and the prettiest routes are clogged with traffic. September and October run a close second with older visitors, not limited to traveling during school vacations, take to the hills and glens. Because Scotland is not a country you'd really visit for the weather, most activities and attractions — except for the most dangerous hikes up Ben Nevis  (Britain's tallest mountain) and in the Cairngorms National Park — are available all year round. If you are willing to bundle up, the mid-winter months and early spring can be worth trying as well. Here's what you can expect around the year.

Popular Festivals and Events

• August is Festival Time in Edinburgh: Nearly the whole month is given over to the Edinburgh Fringe , an unjuried multi-arts celebration of plays, cabaret, comedy, music and children's shows that fills the whole city. It runs alongside the Edinburgh International Festival, a curated selection of world theater, dance, music and opera. A book festival, a film festival, a military festival ( the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo ) and a food festival also cram into the busy August calendar. That means that Edinburgh is very crowded throughout the month. Go in July to explore the outstanding Scottish museums, eat terrific Scottish seafood (the North Sea stays cold enough to produce it even in the summer months) and cruise the lochs in relative peace. If you are keen to attend the Fringe, stay in Glasgow instead of Edinburgh. It's just a 40 minute train ride away. You can easily dip in and out of the Edinburgh excitement and then relax over good steaks and cocktails or Vietnamese street food in Scotland's second city.
• Sample the Highland Games: If you fancy watching mammoth-sized men throwing telephone poles (they call it tossing the caber) and other big, heavy objects, or watching kilted young girls in diamond patterned knee socks dance nimbly around swords, you'll love the traditional Highland Games , held around the country from late August through October. The Queen and royal family attend the Braemar Gathering while staying at Balmoral.
• New Year's Means Hogmanay: The Scots celebrate New Year's with a big three or four day blow-out known as Hogmanay . In Edinburgh it includes a torchlight parade, a variety of concerts, spectacular fireworks around Edinburgh Castle and a dip in the Firth of Forth on New Year's Day known as the Loony Dook. All round the country, local Hogmanay celebrations are colorful, noisy and well oiled with plenty of good Scotch. If you're lucky you could join a group of locals for First Footing.
• The Fire Festivals: From the longest night, in mid-December throughout the month of January, the Scots, much like all Northern Europeans, encourage the return of the sun with fantastic fire festivals. Though most are modern revivals, they often have roots in more ancient traditions. There's Up Helly Aa , a Viking festival in the Shetlands that ends with the burning of a Viking longboat; the Stonehaven Fireballs that sees a parade of kilted participants swirling huge, homemade balls of burning stuff around and over their heads on chains and several more equally dramatic events.

This is one of the three wettest months of the year and also one of the coldest. Days are short — with about 7.5 hours of daylight through the month and, since January is also one of the rainiest, the stormy darkness can make the days seem even shorter. There's also a good chance of snow in the mountains,where Scotland's ski resorts come into their own.

Events to check out:

• It's the season of fire festivals as all over Scotland and the the Scottish islands traditional fire festivals light up and warm up the long winter nights.
• Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year, is a multi-day affair that bleeds from the end of December into January. The holiday is celebrated around Scotland but the major event to look for is Edinburgh Hogmanay — a three to four day blow-out that is worth checking out and booking in advance.
• Celtic Connections : Europe's biggest winter music festival, in Glasgow.

Cold, dark and wet. The temperature rarely rises above about 40 degrees fahrenheit and February is one of the three wettest months of the year. Its a month to enjoy the pleasures of Scotland's cities, to skate on public ice rinks that usually go up in the center of in Edinburgh, Glasgow and other cities.

• The Glasgow Film Festival : An international showcase of more than 100 films, guest star appearances, talks and competitions.
• February Fest in Glencoe: A month of beer, music and lots of snow for hardy winter sports enthusiasts.
• Salmon fishing season starts in the Tweed and the Spey and runs for the next 11 months.

In March the temperature starts to rise with average temperatures between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. You can still expect snow in the Cairngorms and about 80 centimeters of rain in Glasgow during the month but snowdrops are blooming and by the end of the month the crocuses and daffodils will be peaking through in parks and villages. Both Edinburgh and Glasgow are especially gusty this month.

• The Glasgow International Comedy Festival fills almost three weeks in March
• The Scottish Snowdrop Festival sees many private gardens open to enjoy the little flowers.

Days are noticeably longer and warmer, trees are starting to bloom and the deciduous trees are beginning to leaf out. You can still expect gusty winds and what the British call sharp showers — short, heavy shocks of rain. But spring is definitely in the air.

• Bring your binoculars, this is the month that ospreys return from Africa to their loch side nests around the country. See them at the Loch of the Lowes visitor center near Dunkeld.
• Beltane : Join the May Queen and the Green Man, both fertility figures, to welcome summer with this ancient Celtic festival. In Edinburgh it can be rather uninhibited and probably not a family event.

The temperature hovers in the 50s in May and there is usually less rain. It's a time of year when people begin to get outdoors for kayaking, canoeing and hiking. The countryside will be pretty muddy so bring waterproof walking shoes. And expect to come across swarms of midges — tiny biting insects that appear in clouds so dense they sometimes look like mist. The females emerge in May — they don't bite but they are everywhere and easy to inhale. Pray for windy days — midges are so tiny that strong winds blow them away.

• Golfers take note, it is the opening of the season at St. Andrews , the home of golf.
• It's Whisky Month and the Spirit of Speyside festival is a treat for connoisseurs
• Pipers gather in Paisley for the British Pipe Band Festival

Campers may want to avoid the warmer, pleasant month of June because that's when the male midges hatch. They like warm humid weather and unlike their female counterparts, they bite and can cause rashes and allergic reactions. Slather on insect repellent that's specific for the nasty little beasties (as the Scots are wont to call them) and, if you camp, use mosquito netting. But the flip side is that daylight lasts forever. In Lerwick, Shetland's capital, there are four more hours of daylight than in London and in the far north it never really gets dark.

• Arts and Music Festivals all over the place. Jazz fests at Kirkcudbright (pronounced Ker-koo-bree by the way) and Glasgow International . Multi-arts fests at Dumfries & Galloway , Leith and Dundee
• The Edinburgh International Film Festival : The world's longest continually running film festival.

One of the warmest months, a good chance of sunshine and the highest temperatures. But don't get so excited you leave your jacket and waterproofs home. The average high is only 63 degrees Fahrenheit and there's still a moderately good chance of rain. The days are still very long. You can even play a round of golf in the middle of the night in parts of Scotland.

• The Inverness Highland Games traditional feats of strength, music and highland dancing. They are Scotland's biggest inter-clan games event.

Another month of warm weather and long days. If the early summer has been hot and humid, expect another hatching to biting midges in August. The West Coast of Scotland is the worst for them this month. Luckily, the most exciting things happening in Scotland in August are in the east of the country where they are less of a problem.

• Edinburgh Fringe : The world's biggest open access performing arts festival fills almost the entire month. Comedy, drama, music, cabaret, kids shows, musicals. Thousands of performances.
• The Edinburgh International Festival : The grown-up, curated festival. The world's leading theater companies, orchestras, chamber music, opera and dance ensembles are invited.

A good month for exploring. Temperatures stay relatively mild - from about 46 degrees to 67 degrees fahrenheit. Explore the east coast and the islands of the east — Orkney and the Shetland Islands — where it's drier and less buggy.

• The Braemar Gathering : Highland Games attended by members of the Royal Family — and usually the Queen.
• Largs Viking Festival celebrates the last battle staged by Vikings in the British Isles.

The best month of the year to visit the Western Highlands. The midges are gone, temperatures are crisp, days are bright. Heather blooms across the hills, gold, lavender, grey, orange and even green. Long sunsets, with the sun riding low in the sky, make for golden light from late afternoon until sunset.

• Enchanted Forest : A month-long, choreographed sound and light show in Perthshire's big tree country

The weather is noticeably colder — hovering between 37 and 41 degrees F — and it's noticeably wetter. It's also darker. By mid-November there are only eight hours and 20 minutes of daylight between dawn and dusk. It's snowing in the Highland peaks and the Cairngorms and the ski season is underway.

• Glasgow's Whisky Festival : A celebration of the Scottish spirit lasts only a day but there will be tastings of whiskies from Glasgow and the rest of Scotland.
• NEoN Digital Arts Festival : Dundee (Northeast of North) hosts an annual celebration of digital creativity.

Cold weather, bitter damp and extremely short days. If the weather gods have been kind to winter sports fans there will be snow on the peaks in the Central Highlands, the Cairngorms and the winter resort town of Aviemore. Otherwise this is a month to stay indoors, nurse a single malt by a fire, to go to a Panto, or join a Christmas house party at Scottish country hotel.

• Edinburgh's Christmas : Christmas markets, a fun fair, ice skating, shows and free events crop up around Edinburgh.
• The Santa Dashes: in Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow, thousands of Santas race, in full Santa kit, for charity.
• Hogmanay New Year's Celebrations kick off on 30 December and continue through January 1.

The weather in Scotland is unpredictable, but it tends to be the nicest in the summer months when temperatures are more cool than cold and you can also enjoy between 16 and 18 hours of daylight.

The summer months draw the most tourists because there is the best chance for good weather. Major tourist attractions are more crowded and hotel rates tend to go up at this time.

In the winter, between December and February Scotland can get very cold, particularly in the Highlands. Temperatures can drop to as low as 34 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) in more southern cities like Glasgow or as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) in northern cities like Inverness.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Glasgow, Scotland." Retrieved March 5, 2021.

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BEST TIME TO VACATION IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND

Arrive with the zip flush of swallows in April or May. A sparkling June, any settled spring or a bee-laden high summer. Choose a darkened, cosy December, a crisp January, a frosted fresh February or a light lengthened March.  A leaf curled autumn in a daze of an Indian summer  would give a golden glow to any vacation in Ireland and Scotland . There is neither a best time or a worst time, an in-between or a chance your luck month. Simply, go. The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is any time.

Best time to Visit Ireland and Scotland

by Elaine Desmond

Each season has it’s own lure and seductions to tempt you with a visit to these Celtic nations. The winter nudges in with November, through December to January and sometimes shares February with spring.

The more northerly latitudes of Scotland reflect a colder winter than Ireland’s.  The average temperatures in January and February (usually the coldest months) in Scotland are 41*F (5*C) to 45*F (7*C). Don’t let a little chill put you off. The winter months can be the best time to visit these countries.

Winter Events in Scotland

The New Year in Scotland – Hogmanay- is the highlight of the Scottish calendar. A 3 day festival in Edinburgh bursts with music, street parties, a torchlight procession and of course the spectacular fireworks.

Edinburgh is a magnificent city in any light but it really glows with an exuberance at this time of year. All corners of Scotland celebrate Hogmanay with verve and relish. Traditional customs are honoured with gift giving and first footing.

The ‘first foot’ is the first arrival to a house after midnight. Visitors bring traditional gifts of shortbread, a lump of coal or a black bun. And of course whisky for a good luck toast. Honour this tradition in your own way by setting your foot in Scotland for the first time.

Another Hogmanay custom is the traditional good luck kiss at midnight while singing Auld Lang Syne to welcome in the New Year. Embrace a stranger or old and new friends as you wave goodbye to the old and welcome a fresh new day.

Winter Events in Ireland

Ireland borrows this Hogmanay custom too though not embraced more than Scotland. Irish winters are quite mild, average 45*F (7*C) , ideal weather to swirl a whiskey by an open peat fire.

Apart from the rich taste, it could be the reason this drink was created- to give warmth in the cold! Capping the perfection would be a whiskey by a peat fire in a Scottish or Irish Castle. Perfect sense.

There is a frisson of excitement in Springtime, a canter in the heart before the gallop of summer. A time to savour and delight in the freshness of newer days. The landscape can be crisp and clear, richly lit and rewarding. Temperatures are mild in both Ireland (46* to 54*F) and Scotland (44* to 56*) but it’s always wise to pack a mixture of light and warmer clothes when travelling here. Layers ….. the answer to all weather clothing conundrums!

Spring is a perfect season for a self drive vacation in Ireland and Scotland.  There is a quieter freedom on the roads before the busier summer and without weather extremes. April and May are two great months to enjoy the stretch of roads with a stretch of light also in the evenings.

Events in Spring

There are many events to ensure that Spring is the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland. St.Patrick’s Festival is the main highlight of March when Ireland heaves with parades on the 17th. At the end of April Limerick hosts a Riverfest with a multitude of waterfront events. One of the biggest horse racing festivals of the year is at Punchestown, Co.Kildare . In Scotland, Glasgow’s International Comedy Festival takes place in March. The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is in April.

Bright long days, high sunshine bouncing off glassy waters and a gloss of green. The summer is one of the best times to visit Ireland and Scotland.

It is also one of the busiest though and you will share high season with many as July and August coincide with school holidays too. However, these countries can easily soak up the extra numbers, with parts of northern Scotland in particular never bothered by crowds.

The summer temperatures will rarely hit extreme prolonged highs and the temperate average for both countries is 66*F (19*C). The best feature of the summer is the long pulled out days where the sun glints from an early 5 a.m dawn until dusk past 10p.m. Scotland’s northerly latitude means that Lerwick in the Shetland Islands has an extra four hours of daylight than London in the height of midsummer.

Events in Summer

Which means you can see more and do more in the summer months. Both countries have a surplus of exciting activities and cultural events during this time and the hardest decision will be to narrow down your options. Edinburgh has 8 summer festivals,  including the gargantuan Arts Festival, and also International Film, Jazz and Blues Festivals and the goosepimpling Military Tattoo.

Enjoy the Highland Games throughout Scotland where physical prowess is tested with shot put, tug of wars and caber throwing, bagpipes abound and Highland flings are flung beside livestock judging and parades.

Ireland is also ablaze with summer activities from concerts in Cork at the Marquee, Literary Festivals, Gaelic games, coastal Regattas , theatre and Arts Festivals in Galway, Donegal, West Cork and Kilkenny. A golfing vacation is an option in all seasons of the year (although perhaps limited in the winter months) in both countries and The Scottish and Irish Open are both on during the summer .

There is a rich ripening of harvest satisfaction in Autumn with these two Celtic nations. The crisp charge of the cooler days is perfect walking weather. The mild climate here allows for an average temperature in both countries of 59*F (15*C) .

Events in Autumn

There are many marked small looped walks in most areas and also longer distance challenges. For instance The Great Glen Way and The West Highland Way in Scotland or Sheep’s Head and The Wicklow Way in Ireland. These walks you can complete in full or dip in for a stage here and there.

Scotland in Autumn celebrates Halloween with relish as this is the home of Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, haunted Castles and the Great Scottish witch hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries. In Ireland the highlight of the unique Gaelic games season culminates in four All Ireland finals in Dublin throughout the month of September in the mecca stadium Croke Park.

This home of the Gaelic games association is worth touring with or without a match taking place.

Yes, it does rain. Yes, it will be changeable. Yes, you can get soaked and sunburnt in an hour. Bring sunglasses. Bring a raincoat. Bring some warm clothing. But always, bring yourself to Ireland and Scotland where at any time you can have the best vacation and leave with a greater gladness.

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Best Time to Visit Scotland: Your Complete Guide

Are you planning to come to Scotland? Or are you intrigued by what this mysterious land of whisky and tartan has to offer? If you’re not sure when is the best time to visit Scotland, let us assure you that there is no bad time!

It simply depends on what you want to see and do. 

Scotland is a country that's truly worth visiting all year round. You could experience the snow-dusted mountain peaks of winter, beautiful autumn foliage, or summer's exciting festivals.

This is why, at Nordic Visitor, our travel consultants have crafted tours so you can  visit Scotland in summer and winter . If you’re not sure where to start, we've put together this handy guide to help you decide when is the best time to visit Scotland, depending on your interests.

• When is peak season?
• When is best for weather?

Exploring Scotland in summer

Exploring scotland in winter.

• Visiting Edinburgh
• Scottish Highlands
• Wildlife watching
• Taking hotography
• Honeymooners
• Island hopping
• Castle explorers
• Driving the North Coast 500
• Whisky lovers
• Northern lights
• Attending events and festivals
• Combining a tour of Ireland and Scotland

When is peak season in Scotland?

Scotland is a year-round destination, but the summer months, from June until August , attract the most visitors. This high season coincides with summer's better weather, more daylight hours, and plenty of activities and festivals happening around the country.

Many people come during the shoulder season as well, before and after the summer, and enjoy fewer crowds but still agreeable weather. Scotland also attracts numerous visitors over the winter, especially around Hogmanay, which marks the ‘off-season’.

What time of year is the best weather in Scotland?

The Scottish weather’s reputation precedes itself, but as Scotland enjoys a temperate climate, this means moderate temperatures all year round. The average daytime temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 17°C (63°F) in summer.

July and August are on average the warmest months of the year, which coincides with the peak season for tourism and summer holidays. April is often the driest month of the year, and shoulder season months May and September also enjoy fair weather, ideal for sightseeing.

It is good to note that the weather is pretty changeable. This means you could encounter all four seasons in one day, regardless of which month you come to Scotland. This is why we recommend always having a few layers with you, especially wind and rain proof layers!

What is the rainy season in Scotland?

Scotland is renowned for being a wet country, but its rainfall depends highly on the region. The east coast gets nearly four times less rain than the western Highlands. The west coast is commonly wetter but warmer, while the east coast has more sunshine hours but is generally cooler.

Summer can be rainy in Scotland, but generally speaking, the rainiest season in Scotland is during the winter. Between mid-October and and late March you can expect wetter and colder weather. January is the rainiest month of the year.

What is the best time of year to avoid midges in Scotland?

Midges are tiny insects that bite, found especially in the Highlands and islands of Scotland. They can be encountered throughout the summer, but visit during the shoulder season, in April, May , or September to avoid midges during outdoor activities. 

July and August is usually considered the worst period for midges in Scotland.

They are at their most active in the early mornings and evenings. You can try to avoid being outside in the countryside at those times of the day. Or we recommend carrying midges repellent the repellent.

You can find out more about the weather in Scotland with our handy weather guide .

When is the best month to visit Scotland?

Still not sure which month or season is best to explore Scotland? Good news, we’ve written the pros and cons for the summer and winter seasons below. It’ll also be useful if you already have a fixed holiday and coming to Scotland at a particular time of the year, as this may help you know what to expect.

Summer in Scotland is from June to August, which also marks the peak tourism season. It attracts the most visitors because the temperatures are usually higher with averages of 15-17°C (59-63°F). There are also more daylight hours, and countless activities to do and festivals to entertain those interested.

• Explore Scotland in summer with one of these exciting itineraries
• Related : Scotland in Summer - What to Do & Where to Go

The months between April and September are ideal for a driving tour of Scotland as the longer daylight hours give you more time for sightseeing and for using country roads.

You may find this is the easiest time for island hopping as well, as some ferry lines are closed or less frequent during the winter. In the summer they are also less likely to be cancelled due to weather conditions.

Finally, top attractions are also more likely to be open (with longer visiting hours) during the April to September (or even October) period.

On the flipside, the main thing you should consider when visiting Scotland in summer is that you may find it a bit busy.

August in particular attracts the most crowds of the whole year, especially at key tourist attractions such as Edinburgh  and its international festivals, as well as the Isle of Skye and the Highlands.

In the Highlands and islands, you may also expect a high likelihood of midges (small flying insects that bite) which can be bothersome. For that reason, we recommend bringing some midge repellent.

While summer is by far the most popular with visitors, the shoulder months of April, May and September are also ideal for those who prefer a quieter holiday. They usually attract less crowds but still feature nice weather.

• Do you dream of a Scottish road trip but don't fancy driving yourself? Consider a  small group tour in a comfy minibus with 16 travellers max

Winter and the ‘off-season' is from October until March. January and February are often the coldest month, with average temperature inching around 5°C (41°F).

Winter is therefore quite mild in Scotland (for a northern country) with conditions being more changeable than in summer, with more wind, more rain and sometimes even snow.

Does it snow in Scotland in winter?

While it rarely snows in the Scottish cities (on average only a handful of days a year), it is a normal occurrence in the mountains during the winter. It is especially likely between January and March .

While we’ve said that Scotland is a year-round destination, there are less activities available at this time of year. Top attractions are closed or have shorter opening hours, island ferries are less frequent, and there is less daylight to take advantage of for sightseeing or driving.

• Browse our winter tours of Scotland for a frosty and enchanting experience
• Related :  Scotland in Winter - What to Do & Where to Go

These conditions don’t stop the many visitors that come to Scotland every winter to see its gorgeous and dramatic landscapes. It’s still perfect if you want to experience smaller crowds and have a different perspective on famous attractions, such as Loch Ness with snowy hills in the background.

One of my favourite winter activities is to venture up into the Cairngorms National Park to visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. You have the opportunity to hike up to the hill top where you can walk amongst these beautiful creatures and enjoy the feeling of their soft velvet noses on your hands if you wish to have a go at hand feeding them. – Annie Pepperell, Scotland Travel Consultant

If you want to come to Scotland for a road trip, please be aware that it is definitely possible in the winter. But as the weather conditions are changeable, this can often make the roads and driving conditions unpredictable and difficult, especially in the Highlands and other remote parts of the country.

• For a next-level travel experience, ask for a  private tour of Scotland  and let an experienced driver-guide take you around Scotland’s top sights in comfort and style

As we say in the Nordic countries, "there is no bad weather, only bad clothing," so make sure to dress properly if you want to come visit Scotland during the winter months. To help you, check out our handy packing guide .

When is best to explore Scotland depending on your needs?

As we’ve mentioned before, there is no bad time to visit Scotland, as its beautiful all year long and there is plenty to do around the country.

Below we’ve highlighted the most requested interests and activities and when is the best time to go to Scotland for each one of them. Look up the one you’d love to experience while in Scotland:

Best time to visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a buzzing capital all year long. It rings in the new year with loud festivities and carries on with effervescence well into the spring and summer.

Scotland’s capital is ideal for a city break during any season. Museums are open all year long, and you’ll be able to enjoy some shopping and delicious local meals at all time of year too.

Day tours from Edinburgh are also available during all the months. Visit a nearby distillery or go off on a quick adventure into the Highlands. You may find there is more availability in the shoulder and winter months. For a more exclusive affair, this is when you want to book your tour.

To take part in the energy of the summer festivals, visit in August. Although you may find you have to book in advance for accommodation, flights, and even restaurants reservations.

If it's cosy vibes and festive markets you're after, make sure to head to Edinburgh to celebrate Christmas in Scotland . From November into January, the city will be decked out in twinkling lights and you could soak up views of the wintry countryside on a day trip from the capital. 

• Related: Cool facts about Scotland

Best time for touring the Scottish Highlands

You may be wondering when is the best time to visit Scotland’s Highlands? This gorgeous region is one of the most popular locations in the country. You will soon find out why when you visit the Highlands yourself.

It has it all. From sheer mountain sides, to waterfalls, romantic forested areas, and Scottish beaches that look like they're straight out of the Caribbean. And it doesn’t stop there! Not only will you want to take it all in from your car (or bus) window, but you’ll want to be immersed in it.

The summer is a great time to take part in outdoor activities to experience the best that the Scottish Highlands have to offer. Join a boat tour along the grand lochs , go hiking to the tall peaks of the region, or dip your feet into the cold water for some wild swimming.

The landscape of Highland Perthshire is truly at its best in autumn. The foliage is changing colour and you’ll get to feel the crisp air as you go for nature walks.

In winter, as the weather doesn’t drop too much, you’ll still be able to take part in some fun. In the Highlands, especially up the mountains, snow fall is more common and makes the landscape even more enchanting. You could also try skiing at one of the resorts.

• To see the beauty of this region, browse these tours of the Scottish Highlands

Best time to visit Scotland for wildlife watching

Scotland is perfect for those who love keeping an eye out for wildlife! With its fabulous big five including the red squirrel, red deer, golden eagle, otter and harbour seal, Scotland’s wildlife can be spotted in the sky, the harbours, the beach, the mountains and even from the road.

We’ve put together a few of the most spotted wildlife below, how many will you see during your trip?

Spring is the best time to try to spot puffins off the west coast. These lovely birds are often spotted along the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Staffa, but also up north in the Shetland isles.

Scotland has a large population of red deer, which can be spotted anywhere, even near cities and in people’s gardens. The best place to spot them though will be in the moorlands, such as Rannoch Moor.

These wonderful creatures can be spotted all year long, but are especially active in the morning and in the evening. The best time of the year to see stags (the male deer with antlers) is during autumn, which is their breeding season.

• See the wildlife, castles and iconic highlights on one of our best-selling tours around Scotland

Golden eagle

If you’re lucky and keep an eye out, you may be able to spot a few birds of prey, especially the majestic golden eagle, soaring high above. They are most often found flying over open moors and mountains. The best time to see them may be in early spring.

Red squirrel

Smaller than your average grey squirrel, red squirrels are a special spot. You can find them all year round in the forested areas of the country, including Fife, Perthshire and the Highlands.

This other big five animal is found hunting in water and breeding all year round, especially near the Isle of Skye . As they are quite elusive, look out for them in the early morning or late evening when they are most active.

Scotland’s seas are also populated with two kinds of whales. While rarely spotted, orca (or killer whale) pods can be seen during the summer swimming in the north of Scotland, around the Shetland and Orkney islands.

Minke whales can also be spotted around Scotland between May and October . As they feed in shallow water, you may be able to spot them from the beach in Wester Ross (in Scotland’s northern mainland), Isle of Skye and Isle of Mull.

Sharks in Scotland? Well the waters around Scotland attract the species called basking sharks. Often called ‘gentle giants’ they are a non-threatening type of shark that feeds on plankton. It is the largest fish found in Scotland and the rest of the UK and second biggest shark in the world. They are mostly found along Scotland’s west coast and, while elusive, it is possible to spot them in the summer.

Dolphins may conjure up images of the Caribbean, but you may well be able to spot them in Scotland too! They can often be spotted at low tide (more precisely 1 hour after low tide, when it turns into a rising tide) in the Moray Firth, off Chanonry Point on the Black isle, near Inverness.

The dolphins that swim up the Moray Firth are often hunting for salmon, so the best time of the year to see them would be at the height of salmon migration in late July. They can however also be spotted in spring and autumn.

These seabirds migrate back to Scotland in early spring to raise their babies. From that time of year, you may be able to spot them well into the summer. Europe’s largest colony of gannet is also located right near Edinburgh, on Bass Rock in the Firth of Forth.

Grey seals usually give birth between late September and late November and stay ashore until they are ready to head into the sea by themselves. This means you may be able to see seal pups around Scotland during this time, especially on the west coast.

Bonus: Highland cow

While these aren’t wild, many visitors to Scotland will want to see a highland cow during their trip. As they are usually kept in fields, they can be spotted most often between April and October. If you join a guided tour, chances are the guide will stop to allow you some time to take some photos with these adorable hairy cows!

Best time in Scotland for photographers

Photographers will be happy all year long in Scotland with the dramatic clouds or in the windy sunlight, as, we can let you in on a secret, it is really that photogenic!

• Related: Look up our photographer's guide to Scotland for local tips

In winter, visitors who want to take some good blue and golden hour photography will be spoiled as they happen during the day. This means no need to wake up early to take advantage of it!

For example, golden hour in mid-January starts around 9:30am and then 4pm in Edinburgh. Blue hour would then be around 7:15am until 8 followed by night blue hour between 4:40 and 5:30pm.

While the long days of summer will make taking advantage of blue and golden hours difficult as they happen in the middle of the night, it will give you more daylight to enjoy the sights and take photographs of historic monuments or rugged landscapes.

Winter is one of the best times to visit Scotland if you are a keen landscape photographer. There a few places where rugged mountains are so close to the sea, and the stark contrast between the stunning coastline dotted with beaches and the snow-capped peaks, especially along the west coast and on the Isle of Skye, can be great to capture. – Christoph Glauche, Scotland Travel Consultant

Best time to visit Scotland as a family

Coming to Scotland with your family may depend on school or work holidays, or what you’re looking for as an experience. Do you want to see the northern lights or experience the midnight sun? Look up our above categories to get a better idea.

For families, we would usually recommend a slow-paced summer tour, where you can stop more than one night at the same location. It gives you more flexibility and you can take advantage of the longer daylight hours.

The summer usually has more kid-friendly activities available. This includes boat tours, Highland games or pretend jousting games, and interactive activities where kids can dress up and play. Something to interest all young adventurers!

We would advise to also keep in mind, while you're planning your family trip to Scotland, that young visitors may not be allowed into whisky distilleries for tours. The minimum age for drinking in Scotland is 18.

Best time of year for a Scotland honeymoon

The perfect timing for your honeymoon will depend on when your wedding is of course. But also if you want to head off right away or wait until you’ve had time to plan and save for a dream trip!

And if you’ve always dreamed of a honeymoon in Scotland, the best time to come, may also depend on what you want out of it. Only you can answer that question, but we’re here to help you plan!

Do you want to go hike up the majestic Quiraing on Skye? Summer.

Do you want to visit the remote Shetland, Orkney or Lewis and Harris islands? Summer.

Or maybe your goal is to see the top highlights without crowds, in peace? Winter.

We believe that travelling in the winter time can be very romantic! There are fewer crowds in Scotland at that time of year. This means there will not be as many visitors at each highlight, like Edinburgh Castle or the Isle of Skye, giving you more time together in a more relaxed context.

Finally, our travel consultants would recommend spending more than one night in the locations you’re visiting, to give you the chance of a leisurely stay with your partner.

• Have a romantic trip around Scotland with these  honeymoon and romance packages

Best time for island hopping in Scotland

Did you know that Scotland has almost 800 islands? Many of which are located in clusters, such as Orkney islands and Shetland Islands, and on the various lochs of the country, such as Loch Lomond .

The islands all offer different landscapes and a variety of attractions and sites. The Shetland islands bring to life the Viking culture of the olden days. Visitors flock to the Orkney islands to visit the UNESCO listed  Heart of Neolithic Orkney . You can discover Gaelic culture on Lewis and Harris.

The Isle of Skye however is by far the most popular and most accessible. Visitors can drive to the island all year long via the Skye bridge, which links the island to the mainland.

We would recommend the April to October period for those who really want to see Scotland’s rugged and stunning islands.

As you’ll have read throughout this post, Scotland is beautiful and accessible during the winter. But the low amount of daylight hours will offer you less time to take advantage of their beauty and make days of exploration shorter.

There are also less ferry connections throughout the winter, the seas are rougher, and ferries can be cancelled due to bad weather.

I would usually recommend the months of the summer, between May and September, as there is warmer weather, and the ferry crossings are available more often and tend to be more pleasant too! My personal favourite is Orkney, where you can explore Skara Brae, a stone-built Neolithic settlement, before watching a romantic sunset at Yesnaby Cliffs. - Agne Dobrovolskyte, Scotland Travel Consultant 

• Explore one, two, or even more of the Scottish isles with one of these fantastic itineraries

Best time to visit Scotland for castles and history enthusiasts

Scotland, with its rich royal and clan history, is full of castles , estates and mansions. You could spend your entire holiday in Scotland visiting, learning and discovering more about clans and their homes.

If you want to do the castle trail, and see many of these historical sites, you may want to come between spring and autumn.

This is because some castles close completely to visitors during the winter, some have reduced hours, and some are only opened during certain days (usually weekends). Most places are also closed during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

For example, Blair Castle in Perthshire is closed between November and March inclusively. From October to March, Crathes Castle and Drum Castle are only opened over the weekend days.

One of Scotland’s most famous castle, Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home to the British Royal Family, is only opened to the public from April to July.

Perhaps you're keen to also discover history and retrace the steps of popular fictional characters, such as Jamie and Claire from  Outlander . The historical filming locations also operate on reduced hours, such as Doune Castle and Linlithgow Palace, or shut completely during the low season, such as Hopetoun House.

• Walk where kings, queens and clanlords once did on these tours with Scottish castles and palaces
• Witness the inspiring real-life settings and filming locations of Outlander with these   Outlander tour packages

Best time of year to drive Scotland's North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is the (mostly) coastal road that circles the northernmost part of Scotland’s mainland . It has become an increasingly popular destination, with visitors coming to Scotland just to experience it. As it comprises 500 miles, it takes, on average, between 5-8 days to complete it comfortably.

Whether you want to take on the full road, or drive parts of it, we recommend the shoulder months, of April, May and September, for the best experience.

This is because, while in the winter it is possible to make the drive, there are less activities, sights, accommodation, and daylight hours to take advantage of during the low season.

Roads may also be closed due to bad weather, which is more likely during the winter months. If you do plan on coming during this time, make sure to be prepared and have a flexible schedule.

In contrast, the summer brings about the warmer weather, plenty to see and do, and long daylight hours to take advantage of for long driving days. It will of course coincide with the busiest time along the road, especially as the NC500’s popularity has soared in the last few years.

The late spring and early autumn should usually involve nice weather, longer daylight hours than the winter, and less crowds than in the summer.

• Explore self-drive tours for a road trip to remember in Scotland

Best time of year to visit Scotland for whisky lovers

Fans of whisky, or ‘water of life’ as they call it here, will not be disappointed in Scotland! There are over 100 distilleries dotted around the country, some in the cities, countryside and remote areas. There are five whisky regions, with distinct tastes, including: Speyside, Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, and Campbeltown.

The summer (usually between April and September) would be the best period as most distilleries are open daily. In the winter months, distilleries usually have reduced availability. This includes reduced hours and tours, but also only opening for certain days of the week.

May is the whisky month in Scotland, with World Whisky Day on the 18 th May. With the Spirit of Speyside festival taking place the first week of the month, and the Feis Ile – the Islay Whisky Festival – at the end of the month, there are plenty of events to learn more about our whisky production and, of course, sample some of our water of life – uisge beatha . – Sarah MacLachlan, Scotland Travel Consultant

• Explore all our whisky tours with options to visit distilleries

Best time to enjoy northern lights in Scotland

Aurora borealis are one of the most wonderful natural phenomena to witness and while visitors rarely come to Scotland for this, it is possible to see them here.

Scotland has some northern lights activity during the winter months, especially in the northern parts of the country. The sky is often too cloudy to be able to witness them.

However in late autumn and early winter, if the weather is on your side and northern lights activity is high, you may just be able to see them if you’re away from light pollution.

We recommend downloading and checking an aurora forecast app, and keeping an eye out especially in the northern isles like Shetland, Orkney, Lewis and Harris.

Best time to visit Scotland for hikers

Hiking in Scotland is a spectacular affair that will truly be worth the physical effort! From smaller walks to full mountain hikes, there is something for everyone and for every level.

The trails are stunning, whether on local hills (like Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh) or the famous ‘munros’ (mountains over 3,000 feet), including the UK’s highest mountain Ben Nevis near Fort William.

The best time to come enjoy hill or mountains walks in Scotland is the April to September period. During these summer and shoulder season months, the trails are more accessible and there is more daylight to take full advantage of them and Scotland’s natural beauty.

In the spring, you may find that the tops of the highest mountains are still covered in snow. The weather is also very changeable at this time, especially while going up in altitude. Therefore we recommend bringing warm layers, being careful not to put yourself in danger, and being ready for the different weather conditions.

The summer of course brings the best weather of the year, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be ready for all seasons in one day (or one hike!). We recommend bringing lighter layers as well as warmer layers to make sure you’re safe and comfortable.

In the summer, if the weather is in your favour and ends up sunny and warm, make sure to bring a hat and plenty of water to keep hydrated!

In the autumn, make sure to be ready for slightly cooler temperatures and changing conditions, with more rain and wind. This is a great time to go for hikes or hill walks to witness and enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage.

• To go on hikes and other adventures off the beaten path, check out these tours

Best time of year for golfers to Scotland

As Scotland is a popular destination for golfers, it’s no wonder people flock every year from across the globe for golfing holidays. Or you may want to at least try your hand at a round while you're touring the country.

All year long, in any weather, you can see determined golfers walking from hole to hole, clubs in hand.

Those who aren’t bothered by the weather may want to visit during the cold and dark winter months. However, there are limited daylight hours to take advantage of the course, and the weather is cold, wet and windy.

We recommend the autumn or springtime, when the weather is more stable, the days become longer, and the tourists and fellow golfers haven’t flocked to the courses yet. You may still need to bring wind and waterproof layers along with you though!

The summer of course brings the best weather conditions for golfing, however, as everyone has this in mind, it means bigger crowds. On some golf courses, the queues to get slots for the day start as early at 5am, especially in St Andrews , famous for being the home of golf.

Best time of year for events and festivals in Scotland

The Scots love a good party and Scotland is a great place to take part in or attend events and festivals. There is a bit of everything for everyone, with festivals and events on all kinds of subject such as film, art, theatre, military, literature, Scottish history and culture.

Hogmanay kicks off the start of the year in style! If you want to experience one of the biggest street parties in Scotland, attend the Edinburgh Hogmanay on New Year’s Eve and party until the wee hours of the morning.

If you don’t enjoy crowded events, fear not! This is a big event marked all around Scotland, with most towns and cities hosting their own Hogmanay parties.

• Celebrate the festive season on one of these Scotland multi-day tours
• Related : Y our guide to Hogmanay – New Year's in Scotland

In January, many places in Scotland celebrate Burns Night, in honour of national poet Robert Burns . This is marked on the 25th January, although celebrations are held in and around that week depending on the location. Dinners are organised and usually involve whisky and haggis, toasts and ceilidh dancing.

You may already know that August is by far the most event and festival filled month of the year! This is especially true in Edinburgh, which gets artists, tourists and locals flocking to the city centre for the many festivals including:

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival
• Edinburgh International Festival
• Edinburgh International Book Festival
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Throughout the summer, there are also Highland games held in many towns and cities around the country. This is a traditional festival, including highland dancing, pipe bands, and athletic events such as the caber toss and hammer throw.

The world’s largest are at the Cowal Highland Gathering held in Dunoon on the west coast at the end of August every year.

In October and November , the autumnal woodlands around Pitlochry are home to the Enchanted Forest, a light and sound show that attracts plenty of visitors.

On the 30th November every year, Scotland celebrates its national day, St Andrew’s Day, named after the patron saint of Scotland . You can find dinners, dances and events held in his honour all around the country.

What is the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland?

For a true Celtic adventure, you may want to combine a tour of Ireland and Scotland in one incredible trip. Imagine spending time visiting the castles and rugged hills of Scotland before exploring the coastal beauty of Ireland.

You could visit ancient castles, listen to live traditional music, and taste the local whisky (or whiskey). All while learning about what connects both countries.

The best time for a joint adventure is between the spring and autumn seasons. While there are many benefits to visiting in winter, you’ll find a more in-depth and complete experience during the summer.

For example, in Scotland some ferries don’t run during the winter. If you want to discover more of the isles, the shoulder and peak months are ideal for this. In both countries, you’ll want to walk through the countryside, visit popular castles and experience the white sand beaches.

In summer, you’re more likely to experience better weather for all these activities.

• Browse these tours of both Scotland and Ireland  for an epic trip

In conclusion, there is no bad time or best time to visit Scotland. It all depends on what you want to take from your trip to this beautiful country. We hope you found this guide helpful to plan your upcoming tour.

If you're ready to make your dream trip a reality, browse our itineraries  or  contact our travel consultants . Our Scotland team is based in Edinburgh and will use their insider knowledge to help you craft the best tour, tailored to your interests.

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

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We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Best Time To Visit Scotland: Weather, Festivals, and Crowds

Scotland is a dream destination for travelers, with its remarkable wildlife, historic cities, and epic landscape of the Highlands. However, choosing the best time to visit Scotland can be a daunting task, given the country’s unpredictable weather and seasonal variations. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Scotland based on your preferences and goals.

Scotland’s weather falls into three main categories: High Season (June to August), Shoulder Seasons (April to May and September to October), and Low Season (November to March). Each season offers advantages and disadvantages for different travelers, such as weather, crowds, prices, and activities. For instance, the High Season is the busiest time in Scotland, with the warmest weather and the most festivals. However, it is also the most expensive and crowded time, with accommodation and attractions booking up quickly.

On the other hand, the Low Season is the least expensive and least crowded time to visit Scotland, with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights and skiing in the Highlands. However, the weather can be harsh, with shorter daylight hours and occasional snowstorms. The Shoulder Seasons offer a balance between the High and Low Seasons, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into each season and provide tips on how to plan your trip to Scotland accordingly.

Seasonal Overview

Scotland is a country that boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills and mountainous terrain. Each season brings its own unique charm and activities, making it a year-round destination for travelers. In this section, we’ll take a look at what each season has to offer in terms of weather, festivals, and activities.

Spring in Scotland

Spring in Scotland is a beautiful time of year, with blossoming flowers and wildlife waking up after months of hibernation. The months of March, April, and May offer average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 7-13°C (or 45°-55°F). This is a great time to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds that come with peak tourism season in the summer months.

Some of the festivals that take place during spring include the Edinburgh International Science Festival and the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. Wildlife enthusiasts can also look forward to spotting puffins and seals along the coast.

Summer Adventures

Summer is the peak tourism season in Scotland, and for good reason. The months of June, July, and August offer long days and rising temperatures, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15-19°C (or 59°-66°F). This is the perfect time to explore the Highlands and Islands, go hiking, or enjoy a day at the beach.

Some of the festivals that take place during summer include the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games. Visitors can also take part in outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and mountain biking.

Autumn Colors

Autumn in Scotland is a time of stunning natural beauty, with the changing colors of the leaves and the crispness in the air. The months of September, October, and November offer average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 9-13°C (or 48°-55°F). This is a great time to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the fall foliage.

Some of the festivals that take place during autumn include the Braemar Gathering and the Royal National Mod. Wildlife enthusiasts can also look forward to spotting red deer and golden eagles in the Highlands.

Winter Wonders

Winter in Scotland is a magical time of year, with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying winter sports. The months of December, January, and February offer average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 5-8°C (or 41°-46°F). This is a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience a traditional Scottish Christmas market or celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve).

Some of the festivals that take place during winter include the Edinburgh Christmas Market and the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations. Visitors can also hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding or go on a hunt for the elusive Northern Lights.

Overall, Scotland is a destination that offers something for everyone, no matter what time of year you choose to visit. Whether you’re looking to explore the rugged coastline, hike in the Highlands, or experience the vibrant culture of Edinburgh, Scotland has it all.

Planning Your Visit

When planning a trip to Scotland, there are several factors to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This section covers the essential aspects of planning a trip to Scotland, including travel essentials, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

Travel Essentials

It is essential to pack appropriately for the weather in Scotland. The best time to visit Scotland is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October, where the weather is milder, and there are fewer crowds. It is advisable to pack layers of clothing, including waterproof jackets, sweaters, and comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.

When planning your trip, it is essential to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season. There are several accommodation options in Scotland, including hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Cultural Experiences

Scotland is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including music, food, and whisky. Visitors can explore the country’s cultural offerings by visiting museums, historical sites, and attending music festivals.

Scotland is also home to several famous whisky distilleries, where visitors can learn about the whisky-making process and sample the country’s finest whiskies.

Outdoor Activities

Scotland’s natural beauty is a major draw for visitors, with several outdoor activities to enjoy. Visitors can explore the country’s stunning landscapes by hiking, cycling, and walking. Some of the popular outdoor activities in Scotland include visiting Loch Lomond, climbing Ben Nevis, and exploring the Cairngorms National Park.

Scotland is also home to several wildlife reserves and gardens, where visitors can observe the country’s diverse flora and fauna.

In conclusion, planning a trip to Scotland requires careful consideration of several factors, including the best time to visit, travel essentials, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. By considering these factors, visitors can enjoy a memorable and enjoyable trip to Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the peak tourist seasons in Scotland?

The peak tourist seasons in Scotland are during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the weather is at its warmest and the days are longest. This is also the time when most of the festivals and events take place, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. As a result, prices for accommodations and attractions are generally higher during this time, and crowds are at their peak.

When is the midge season in Scotland and how can it be avoided?

The midge season in Scotland typically runs from May to September, with peak activity in July and August. These tiny biting insects can be a nuisance for travelers, especially those who plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. The best way to avoid midges is to wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent, particularly during dawn and dusk when they are most active. It’s also a good idea to avoid camping near stagnant water and to stay away from areas with a lot of vegetation.

Which months offer the most favorable weather for traveling in Scotland?

The months of May and September offer the most favorable weather for traveling in Scotland, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than during the peak summer months. However, it’s worth noting that Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable at any time of year, so travelers should be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.

How can one experience Scotland’s attractions with fewer crowds?

Travelers who want to experience Scotland’s attractions with fewer crowds should consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than during the summer months. It’s also a good idea to visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

What is the ideal duration for a comprehensive visit to Scotland?

The ideal duration for a comprehensive visit to Scotland depends on the traveler’s interests and itinerary. However, most visitors spend around 10-14 days exploring the country’s highlights, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Scottish Highlands, and the Isle of Skye. For those with more time, it’s possible to spend several weeks or even months exploring Scotland’s lesser-known regions and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

During which period can travelers find the best deals for visiting Scotland?

Travelers can often find the best deals for visiting Scotland during the low season of winter, from November to March. During this time, prices for accommodations and attractions are generally lower than during the peak summer months, and there are fewer crowds to contend with. However, it’s worth noting that Scotland’s weather can be cold and wet during the winter months, so travelers should be prepared for inclement weather.

Hey there, I'm Robyn and I'm a travel enthusiast and the writer behind this website. With a passion for adventure, I've been traveling and sharing my experiences for as long as I can remember.

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The Best Time to Visit Scotland for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Cheaper Prices (2023).

Best time to visit Scotland: Scotland may be a small country (about the size of South Carolina ), but it boasts an astounding diversity of locations and scenery . Visitors to Edinburgh should do so if they wish to experience Scotland’s enchantment, Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Glen Coe,  and the Isle of Skye , among other places. Make sure you visit at the most advantageous period to make the most of your trip. Here are the ideal dates to visit Scotland, regardless of whether you want nice weather, fewer tourists, or cheaper costs.

When to Visit Scotland for the Best Weather ?

Scotland’s weather , as well as that of the entire United Kingdom , could be more noteworthy . It’s typically  overcast  and a touch gloomy . But when the weather cooperates, nothing is more spectacular than the sun sinking behind  Edinburgh Castle  or the daybreak peeking over a Scottish hillside.

You’ll need to arrange your vacation at the correct time and be lucky if you want to enjoy  Scotland’s best weather . Weather Spark reports that temperatures during the spring season, which lasts from late March to May , ranging from  42 to 63 Fahrenheit on average and that April is often the driest month of the season (the driest month overall is January , but it’s also the  coldest month in the country).

Best Time to Travel on a Budget to Scotland.

The number of people visiting Scotland decreases along with the temperatures —and so do the costs. Book your trip between November 1 and December 12 —during the off-season —or wait until after Christmas, between  December 26 and mid-March, to save money. There are many activities to engage in during this time, such as skiing in the Cairngorms,  relaxing by a fireplace in a charming boutique hotel  (like The Fife Arms), or visiting the  Christmas markets in Edinburgh , even though certain well-known attractions might be closed.

Most Popular Time to Visit Scotland.

Most tourists arrive in Scotland during the warmer months, seeking the best time to visit Scotland. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe and other significant festivals occur all during August when the tourist season in Edinburgh reaches its zenith. Summertime highs in the capital don’t frequently exceed 70 degrees, making the mountainous city’s layout pleasant.

To enjoy the Highland Games, a centuries-old Scottish institution, tourists swarm to Scotland from late May until September, which is considered the best time to visit Scotland. The expected duration of each festival, which takes place at several sites across the area and includes traditional Scottish games like tug of war and the hammer throw, food, music, and dancing, is one day. So, if you’re planning a trip to Scotland and wondering about the best time to visit Scotland, the summer months from late May to September offer an abundance of cultural and traditional festivities to experience.

The best time to visit Scotland is for Highland.

The summer , from  May to September, is the best time to visit Scotland & many tourists travel to the Scottish Highlands  for the best weather and most sunlight. Starting in October, the weather can be erratic, with the possibility of blizzards, subfreezing temperatures, and strong winds . However, the snow-covered  mountains are breathtaking , so if you intend to travel through the Highlands in winter, bring a thick coat  and ensure your  rental vehicle is prepared for any slippery conditions .

Best Months to visit Scotland.

Are you still trying to decide the ideal time of year to visit Scotland? Below, we’ve listed the advantages and disadvantages  of the summer and winter seasons . Additionally, if you are traveling to Scotland at a specific time of the year and have a set vacation itinerary, it will be helpful to know what to expect.

 Explore Summer Season In Scotland.

Scotland’s summer season  runs from June to August, the busiest travel time. Due to the higher average temperatures of  15–17°C (59–63°F),  it draws the most tourists. Additionally, longer daylight hours and significant events and activities  keep people entertained.

Explore Winter Season in Scotland.

The  “off-season”  and winter last from October through March. With an average temperature of around  five °C (41°F) , January and February are frequently the coldest months. While  snowfall  is infrequent (just a few days on average per year) in Scottish cities , it is common in the mountains throughout the winter. Particularly between January and March , it is likely.

Although we’ve mentioned that  Scotland is a year-round destination , there are fewer things to do now. There is less daylight to take benefit of for  sightseeing  or driving, island ferries run less often, and popular sites are closed or have shortened hours of operation.

Related: Best time to visit Costa Rica in 2023, Explore the Good Weather, Wildlife & Affordable Prices.

Best Time to Visit Scotland For Watching Wildlife:

Scotland is ideal for those who enjoy looking out for wildlife! Scotland’s wildlife, including the magnificent big five—the red squirrel, golden eagle, red deer, otter, and harbor seal—can be seen in the skies, harbors, on the shore, in the mountains, and even from the road.

How many of the most often seen animals will you see while on your trip?

Red deer are common in Scotland and can be seen anywhere, including in backyards and close to cities. However, moorlands like Rannoch Moor will be the most fantastic places to see them.

You can see these fantastic creatures throughout the year, but they are most active in daylight and the evening. Stags, or male deer with antlers, are easiest to spot in the autumn, which is the best time to visit Scotland because that is when they breed.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Which month is ideal for travel to scotland.

Although Scotland is a year-round travel destination , the  summer season  draws the most tourists from June to August. This peak period falls during the summer when conditions are more favorable. There are longer natural daylight hours and many events and festivals nationwide.

When should you travel to Scotland to avoid mosquitoes?

It would help if you visited between mid-September and late May . A frost will kill off midges. You will see a few midges in Scotland if you arrive before it warms up too much.

What time of year in Scotland experiences the most excellent weather?

In Scotland, June, July, and August  are typically the warmest months, with maximum daily temperatures averaging between  15 and 17 °C (or 59 and 63 °F).

Which travel method is most effective for Scotland?

Whether on an individual journey or as a part of a tour with a guide, a car  is the most convenient method to go about Scotland .

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The Best Time To Visit Scotland

SD › Best Time to Visit Scotland Updated: March 2, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Edinburgh – Where to Stay
• Best Hotels in Edinburgh for Families

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

I recommend visiting Scotland in the summer months of late June to early September when the temperatures are the warmest and rain chances are relatively low. This is also the busiest time of year, bringing the most tourists and the highest prices on accommodation and airfare. Prices fall slightly, and the weather is still good in May, early June, and late September.

My sons watching a street performance in Edinburgh during a June visit.

• Best Time for Sightseeing : The best time for sightseeing in Scotland is when there’s a good chance for decent weather, plenty of daylight, and fewer tourists to interrupt the views. That’s generally mid-April through May or mid-September through mid-October.
• Best Time to Visit for Good Weather : July and August bring the best chance for good weather and the warmest temperature of the year with afternoon highs averaging 19°C. Expect a mix of sunshine, clouds, and rain throughout the country.
• Best Time to Visit for Golfing : Golf is most enjoyable during the warmer months, from around May through September. The courses won’t be as crowded at either end of that time frame, so if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, aim for May or later in September.
• Best Time for Hiking : With its many spectacular mountain regions, including the Highlands, Scotland is a popular destination for hiking. Hikers that prefer milder temperatures, a good chance for some sunny days, and fewer people out on the trails, may want to go in late spring, but it’s always important to come prepared for at least some rain. While there will be more visitors in the summer, it brings higher temperatures without being too hot, making it a wonderful time to hike. While autumn will be colder, that crisp weather often means viewing brilliant fall foliage.
• Best Time for Castle Visits : Any time of year is a good time to visit the castles, but if you’re looking for an uncrowded experience, go in the low season between November and April. No matter what the season, by visiting early in the morning or at the end of the day not long before closing, the castles will usually be less crowded and have much shorter lines at the entrance.

Scotland Travel Seasons

• High Season (July and August): The peak summer months are high tourist season in Scotland and the warmest time of the year with afternoon temperatures typically climbing to around 19°C. Expect a mix of sunny and rainy days, along with lots of daylight thanks to the country’s northern locale. With the influx of visitors, expect ferries and busses to be full, while room rates and airfare will be at their highest.
• Shoulder Season (May and June, September and October): The shoulder season is a great time to visit Scotland. Late spring and early summer bring pleasant temperatures and wildflowers in bloom, while autumn transforms landscapes with colorful foliage. Expect afternoon highs of 11°C to 14°C, along with shorter lines at attractions and the possibility of some discounted airfares and hotel rates.
• Low Season (November through April): While November is technically autumn, it’s the start of winter in Scotland. Days are short, dark, and often rather dismal, and the month often sees the first snow of the season. The best chance for snow is from December through January, although the cold endures through March and into April most years. This is the optimal time to go for an uncrowded, budget-friendly trip, with the best opportunities for lower room rates and airfare. Some attractions, as well as hotels and restaurants, may close during this time, so be sure to keep that in mind while trip planning.

Scotland Weather by Month

• Scotland Weather in January : If you plan to visit Scotland in January, you’ll want to bring plenty of warm winter clothing as this is the chilliest month of the year no matter where you’ll be. The average high temperature is 5°C but when wind gusts hit it can feel quite a bit colder. While it can snow, and it’s likely to in the mountainous areas, it’s often more of a damp cold with rain and possibly sideways winds. In the lowland areas near the sea, snow is less likely. Be sure to pack clothing that can be layered such as sweaters and thermal underwear, as well as an outer layer like a waterproof coat, along with wool socks, waterproof boots, hats, and gloves. Scotland’s high latitude means short days, so you’ll want to plan accordingly with only an average of 8 hours of daylight this month. (Average Max Temperature: 5°C. Average Precipitation: 130mm.)
• Scotland Weather in February : The average high temperature in February is just a degree higher than last month at 6°C with the low just above freezing at 1°C, so you can expect more wintry weather which can make travel tricky. The reward is some beautiful winter wonderland landscapes, and you can always enjoy the warmth of log fires in pubs, hotels, and B&Bs. The days are getting longer for taking in the sights – by late February there are nearly 11 hours of daylight with sunrise just after 7 a.m. and sunset a little before 6 p.m. (Average Max Temperature: 6°C. Average Precipitation: 90mm.)
• Scotland Weather in March : While temperatures are rising, the chances for rain increase too, with an average of 120mm of precipitation over 23 days and March. The average high increases to 9°C but you can expect lots of gray, chilly, damp days in lowland areas and snow in the Highlands where it’s colder. While spring may be arriving, it probably won’t be noticeable until late in the month. No matter when you come you’ll have to plan on bundling up, including scarves, gloves, and wool socks. The good news is that there is even more daylight now – with daylight savings by late March, you can enjoy more than 13 hours of it for taking in the sights. (Average Max Temperature: 9°C. Average Precipitation: 120mm.)
• Scotland Weather in April : The temperatures are slightly warmer in April, with the afternoon high climbing to 12°C, but mountainous areas will still be cold enough to have snow on the peaks. The better news is that this is one of the drier months of the year, with precipitation decreasing significantly, down to 50mm on average. Mornings and evenings will be chilly, so you’ll still need to bring clothing for cold weather like a warm (perhaps waterproof) coat, but afternoons are usually pleasant enough for just a sweater or light jacket. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers and you should be well prepared. (Average Max Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Scotland Weather in May : May brings spring wildflowers to Scotland, and other than the highest peaks, the snow will have melted by now. This is one of the best months to travel here, with the crowds of summer still weeks away and temperatures a bit more pleasant with afternoon highs at 14°C. The average precipitation increases slightly to 60mm, so it’s a good idea to bring that waterproof jacket, along with sweaters and sweatshirts for chilly mornings and evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 14°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Scotland Weather in June : With the arrival of summer, temperatures are even warmer now, which means you might be comfortable wearing short-sleeve shirts on some days, although you’ll still need to prepare for rain along with cooler mornings and evenings. It’s best to pack clothing that can be layered now, including a rain jacket as June sees an average of 70mm of precipitation over 20 days. It also brings the longest day of the year, with sunrise at 4:29 a.m. and sunset at 10:06 p.m. on the 21st. (Average Max Temperature: 17°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Scotland Weather in July : July is the warmest month of the year in Scotland, although it’s unlikely to feel too hot with the average afternoon high 19°C. Again, rain is always a possibility and this month also sees an average of 70mm of precipitation, so you’ll need a light rain jacket along with sweaters for nighttime outings. This is the peak of summer and one of the best times for hiking in the Highlands and taking part in other mountain activities. Of course, as it is Scotland, warm weather attire like shorts and bathing suits probably won’t be needed. Typically, only locals brave the chilly 15°C sea temperatures for swimming at the beach. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Scotland Weather in August : August temperatures are similar to July, with the average high decreasing a degree to 18°C, although you might see a few more sunny days, with an average of 60mm of precipitation now. It’s a great time to enjoy the beaches and perhaps a quick, if chilly, dip in the sea. Pack as you would for last month, with a mix of short- and long-sleeve shirts along with a sweater or light jacket. (Average Max Temperature: 19°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Scotland Weather in September : With autumn on the way, early September is typically comfortably warm, but things will begin to change soon. The average high temperature drops three degrees to 16°C and there are likely to be more rainy days with 80mm of precipitation on average over 20 days this month. It can be a great time to visit Scotland, with some areas transformed with vibrant, colorful foliage in late September while the crowds of summer are gone. You’ll still need a mix of clothing, although you’ll probably want to focus more on long-sleeve shirts and sweaters. (Average Max Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)
• Scotland Weather in October : October typically sees crisp, cool days, and often damp ones with around 100mm of precipitation this month. The average high temperature dips a few more degrees down to 13°C, and in the high mountain peaks, there could even be some snow. If you come during the second half, there’s a greater likelihood for some serious cold to blow in, which means you’ll want to pack appropriately, including a warm waterproof coat, gloves, wool socks, and waterproof boots. (Average Max Temperature: 13°C. Average Precipitation: 100mm.)
• Scotland Weather in November : It’s winter now even if the calendar doesn’t say that it is. It’s likely to be cold across Scotland and chillier still in the north and east. The average high is 9°C while the low temperature is at 3°C. This is also the month that usually sees the first snow of the winter season. When it comes to packing, concentrate on item that will keep you comfortable in cold, wet weather with November also seeing an average of 100mm. The days are getting shorter now too – late in the month the sun doesn’t come up until almost 8:30 a.m. and the sun sets just before 4 p.m., so plan your itinerary accordingly. (Average Max Temperature: 9°C. Average Precipitation: 100mm.)
• Scotland Weather in December : December is characterized by short, cold and often dark days. It’s one of the coldest months of the year with the afternoon high now 6°C and nights typically get down to only 2°C, which means there’s a decent chance for snow, especially in higher elevation areas. The average precipitation amount increases significantly too, to 120mm over 22 days which means you’ll want to plan to bundle up to stay comfortable while exploring the sights. (Average Max Temperature: 5°C. Average Precipitation: 120mm.)

Scotland Events and Festivals

Scotland in january.

• New Year’s Day – Both January 1 and 2 are national holidays in Scotland, which means all those partiers can look forward to an extra day off. While many just enjoy spending time in their pajamas, there are plenty of special festivities and activities hosted throughout the country like polar dips, live concerts, and racing events.
• Celtic Connections Glasgow – The largest annual winter music festival of its kind, Celtic Connections Glasgow features Scottish talent and artists from around the world for 18 days of concerts, talks, ceilidhs, art exhibitions, and more, starting in mid-January.
• Burns Night – January 25 is Burns Night, a time when the birth of Scotland’s famous bard, Robert Burns, is celebrated throughout the country. Look forward to traditional meals complemented by poetry, song, and drams of whisky at Burns Suppers everywhere.
• Up Helly Aa – Those who visit the Shetland Islands in late January, won’t want to miss the chance to attend Europe’s largest fire festival, Up Helly Aa. Hosted in Lerwick, it celebrates the community’s rich Viking heritage with torchlight parades, costumed marches, the burning of a Viking boat, and parties that stretch long into the night.

Scotland in February

• Fort William Mountain Festival – This event takes place in Lochaber, Scotland’s outdoor capital for five days of walking and climbing films, activity exhibitions, and lectures celebrating everything outdoors. It’s hosted in the latter half of February.
• Scotland Antiques & Collectors Fair – Hosted during the last weekend of February at Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre, Scotland’s largest antiques event features an extensive collection of high-quality antiques, along with vintage and retro items.
• Glasgow Film Festival – Starting in late February, more than 100 films will be shown over 10 days at this festival which showcases a range of innovative films, along with top works from some of the greatest filmmakers in the world.
• Inverness Music Festival – This music festival in Inverness takes place over a week, usually starting in late February. Over 1000 entrants take part in a competition to win awards in various Gaelic categories, including instrumental, vocal, and speech.

Scotland in March

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival – Just as it sounds, this festival showcases top comedians from around the world. It takes place in various venues around the city over the second half of March every year.
• Scottish Concert Band Festival – This festival brings gold and platinum award concert bands from regional festivals across Scotland to the National Finals at Perth Concert Hall.
• St. Patrick’s Day – There will be festivities for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day across Scotland, but Edinburgh’s Cowgate St. Patrick’s Festival is one of the most popular, taking place over three days around the weekend closest to March 17th. There are typically nine stages in five bars along with outdoor venues for live Irish music, dance, and lots of Guinness.
• Bunkered – Previously known as the Scottish Golf Show. Hosted for three days in March, this Glasgow event features stands from more than 100 exhibitors, lessons from pro golfers, trick-shot demos, putting areas, a kids zone, and more.

Scotland in April

• Loch Lomond Springfest – This fun and free food and drink event is held at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch. It takes place over a weekend in early April. It includes lots of food and drink from across the U.K. and beyond, chef demonstrations, entertainment for the kids, bars, live music, and much more.
• Edinburgh International Harp Festival – Hosted in Edinburgh in the impressive surroundings of Merchiston Castle School, this festival features concerts and workshops in early April every year. Artists come from around the world to showcase their talents with this unique instrument.
• Easter Weekend – Good Friday through Easter Sunday is a holiday weekend throughout Scotland, which means some businesses will be closed, including post offices and banks, although restaurants and many shops will be open. Families typically gather for special meals, and churches host special celebrations. Easter egg hunts and other festivities can be enjoyed in many cities.
• Beltane Fire Festival – In late April at Calton Hill in Edinburgh, this festival provides a reinterpretation and modernization of an ancient Iron Age Celtic ritual, including an impressive procession, music, dancing, a bonfire, and lots of food and drink. Follow the May Queen and Green Man as they make their way to light the bonfire to welcome summer.

Scotland in May

• Early May Bank Holiday – The first Monday of May is a bank holiday across the United Kingdom, including Scotland. It celebrates the coming of summer, providing a day off for many. While schools and many businesses close for the day, most shops and restaurants are open.
• Spirit of Speyside – For 6 days, Speyside hosts a whisky lovers’ event, bringing whisky tasting, food, music, and arts and crafts to a variety of venues throughout Speyside.
• Bonfest – This is the International Bon Scott Rock Festival, an annual celebration of AC/DC’s late frontman Bon Scott that’s hosted in his hometown of Kirriemuir. It brings fans from around the world for three days of rock concerts.
• Edinburgh’s International Children’s Festival – This Edinburgh event celebrates the best of children’s theater and dance from across the globe, featuring Scottish and international performers in late May every year.
• Spring Bank Holiday – The last Monday of May is also a bank holiday across the United Kingdom, including Scotland, providing a day for people to enjoy the warming weather. Expect many businesses to be closed, while most shops and eateries remain open.

Scotland in June

• Dundee Westfest – For a day in early June, Magdalen Green in Dundee comes alive with a funfair, live music, food stalls, arts and crafts, children’s rides, and more.
• The Rum Festival – The Briggait in Glasgow hosts this rum event in early June. It includes more than 100 different rums, cocktails, food, and music from around the world.
• Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival – Held in the harbor town of Kirkcudbright over four days in mid-June, this annual jazz festival showcases traditional New Orleans swing and Dixieland jazz, and also features a parade and jazz church service.
• Edinburgh International Film Festival – Over the second half of June, this event brings the best in British and world cinema to Edinburgh, showcasing some of the latest new movies while bringing opportunities to meet some of the artists involved.

Scotland in July

• Skye Live Festival – Throughout July and August, the Isle of Skye hosts a diverse range of ceilidhs, dance, comedy, and music at various venues to celebrate island culture and performing arts.
• Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival – The United Kingdom’s longest running event of its kind features top jazz and blues performers as well as a Mardi Gras Carnival, a parade, jam sessions, talks, and more to Edinburgh for 10 days.
• Inverness Highland Games – Scotland’s largest inner-clan gathering includes traditional sports contests including throwing boles, iron balls, rocks, and the like along with music, drink, and highland dancing in Inverness.
• Morvern Games and Gala Week – Over a week at Knock Park in Lochaline, this event features some of the most scenic Highland games in Scotland, along with live music, dancing, food, and more.
• Hebridean Celtic Festival – Over four days in July, The Hebridean island of Lewis hosts this festival that features contemporary and traditional music, workshops, ceilidhs, children’s activities, and more.

Scotland in August

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival – This is Scotland’s biggest art festival, held over three weeks in August each year. There will thousands of performances including artists from around the world. Performances include theatre, comedy, dance, as well as circus, cabaret, opera, and many other events.
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo – This spectacular military musical event held throughout much of August, is set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. One of the world’s most magnificent shows, it’s watched by a television audience of around 100 million viewers.
• Edinburgh International Book Festival – The world’s biggest book festival is held annually over two weeks in August in Edinburgh. There will be workshops, debates, lectures, discussions, and opportunities to meet authors from across the globe.

Scotland in September

• The Braemar Gathering – Held in early September in Braemar, this is one of the world’s most popular Highland Games and the only one that guarantees a member of the royal family will be there. There will also be pipers and dancers.
• Stranraer Oyster Festival – Taking place for three days in mid-September, this festival showcases some of the world’s leading oyster experts, top chefs, entertainers, and speakers for a seafood celebration in Stranraer along the shores of Loch Ryan.
• The Great British Food Festival – Floors Castle in Roxburghshire, one of the most historic houses in Scotland, hosts this annual mid-September event that offers something for all, including live music and around 80 food and drink vendors in a magnificent setting. The grounds and gardens will be open to visitors as well.

Scotland in October

• Ayrshire Real Ale Festival – For three days in early October every year, this festival hosted at the Troon Concert Hall in Troon, showcases more than 160 real ales from across the U.K., along with a range of real ciders.
• Royal National Mod – The main festival for Scottish Gaelic literature, arts, and culture, usually referred to as simply the Mod, takes place in mid-October in Glasgow. Enjoy Gaelic music and song, highland dance, drama, sports, literature, and more.
• Scottish International Storytelling Festival – Held for two weeks during the second half of October in Edinburgh, this festival features poets, national bards, and weavers who come together to continue the oral tradition of storytelling. Events will take place throughout the city at various venues.
• Spirits of Scone Halloween – There will be Halloween events throughout Scotland, including this one in Perth held at Scone Palace. The grounds are transformed into a frightening playground for horror film enthusiasts with all sorts of ghouls hiding in a maze and lurking in the woods, bringing nightmares to life. In cities like Edinburgh there will be haunted houses, haunted walking tours and festivals, including the Samhuinn Fire Festival on Calton Hill which features vibrant costumes, acrobatics, fire dancing, and drumming.

Scotland in November

• Stirling Gin Festival – This annual gin festival is hosted in Stirling in early November. It celebrates gin, bringing the opportunity to taste more than 100 different types.
• Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night – November 5 is Guy Fawkes Night, a British-wide holiday referred to by many other names as well, including Fireworks Night and Bonfire Night. Fawkes lived around the turn-of-the 17th-century, a time when his religious beliefs were illegal, so he attempted to blow up the King and Parliament on November 5, 1605. It didn’t happen, so the day celebrates his failure with fireworks.
• Oban Winter Festival – For 10 days during the second half of November, this event celebrates the unique culture of Oban with reindeer, street parades, fire art, international and local performing arts, pipers, and more.
• Edinburgh’s Christmas – Annually beginning in late November, this event features a 6-week season of festivities at various venues in Edinburgh. There will be all sorts of holiday markets, attractions, rides, ice skating, and shows.

Scotland in December

• St. Andrew’s Day – The first Monday in December, is a bank holiday for the general population across Scotland. Expect many business closures, although most shops and eateries will be open.
• Christmas holidays – The Scottish enjoy three national holidays in one around Christmas, including December 24, 25, and 26, a time when many businesses will be closed. While many places are shut down on Christmas Day, some tourist attractions like Edinburgh Zoo will be open. Restaurants that are open often host special holiday dinners.
• Edinburgh’s Hogmanay – One of the world’s most elaborate New Year’s Eve parties is held in Edinburgh starting on December 30. It lasts for four days and includes a massive street parade, concerts, torchlight parade, and a huge fireworks display. On New Year’s Day, there will be a polar dip with attendees diving into the freezing waters of River Forth, dog sledding competitions and more.
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About Santorini Dave

Best Time To Visit Scotland: When To Go + When To Avoid

Last Updated on April 10, 2024

Scotland is a stunning country brimming with historic cities, verdant green countryside, scenic islands, and barren mountains. When thinking about the best time to visit Scotland, there can be multiple answers due to the variety of activities and the differences in each season.

Knowing what you want to do and where you want to go is going to help you choose the best time to book your trip. While many people want to visit Scotland in the summer because of the weather, if you want to go to Christmas markets, summer is not the best time to go.

By reading this guide, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable with the time you decide to travel.

In this blog post, I break down the weather in Scotland by season and by month so you can get a good grasp of what to expect when planning a visit no matter the time of year. I cover everything so you can decide the best time to travel to Scotland based on your travel style and preferences.

Please note that some links on my blog are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. When What Do You Sea is supported in this way, you are helping me remain an independent travel blog where I can continue to create free and detailed guides. Read my full disclosure for more information.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Scotland is during spring (March-May) or fall (September and October). These months offer lots of daylight hours for exploring, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices.

This is more of a general answer, though, because the best time to visit Scotland will depend on what you’re going to see and do during your Scotland itinerary .

I made this guide so you can compare each season and decide what will best suit your trip, because if you want to visit Christmas markets, spring or fall would not be the best time to go.

Before we dive into this guide, here are some questions to keep in your back pocket as you read:

Do you mind crowds?

Will you spend all your time in cities or will you be in nature as well?

Are you traveling to Scotland on a budget ?

Do you mind rain?

If you’re here for any niche questions, here are the answers to the most commonly asked for a Scotland trip.

Best Time to visit Scotland to avoid crowds

You can avoid crowds in Scotland by visiting from September to early May.

These three seasons are significantly lower in popularity than the summer months, so crowds are much thinner.

Best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges

Visiting from September to May is the best way to avoid midges in Scotland.

These small flies prefer warm and wet weather, so their ideal habitat is a Scottish summer. By visiting in the cooler months, most of them die off and they aren’t nearly as big of a nuisance.

Best time to visit the Scottish Highlands

The best time to go to the Scottish Highlands is from April to September when the weather is ideal and there are plenty of daylight hours.

If you can manage it, avoid the months of July and August since it can get crowded. If you can’t, there are plenty of places you can go to get some solitude.

Best time to go to Scotland’s Western Isles

April, May, June, and September are ideal months to visit the Western Isles , also known as the Outer Hebrides.

These months are nice and dry with plenty of daylight hours for exploring. Since accommodation and transport are limited in these areas, make sure to book everything in advance.

July and August can also be great times to go to this area, but it’s the busiest time of year with the most crowds.

Worst Time to Visit Scotland

The worst time to visit Scotland is August (unless you plan on celebrating the Edinburgh Fringe Festival).

Because of this month-long festival, the price of everything skyrockets, and crowds are at an all-time high. Nearly everything (tours, car rentals, etc.) is sold out and booked months in advance.

Also, not to mention, it’s the worst month for midges in the Scottish Highlands, so even if you plan on escaping the city, those little bugs will follow (and annoy you) everywhere.

Besides that, winter is probably another one of the worst times of year for going to Scotland. The weather is unpredictable after October, most nature activities are inaccessible, and there are limited daylight hours since the sun sets around 4 p.m..

Cheapest time of year to visit Scotland

The cheapest time of year to go to Scotland is between November and mid-March.

Since the winter weather isn’t ideal and it’s the official off-season, you can grab cheap flights and affordable accommodation. When searching, look outside of holidays like Christmas and New Year’s during these months because prices are inflated for them.

My Experience

I visited Scotland in mid-July .

I was in the United Kingdom for the British World Championships for taekwondo, so the timing of my Scotland trip depended on where the dates of the tournament fell. So unfortunately, I did turn up during one of the busiest months of the year .

Scotland was going through a heat wave at that time, so there was minimal rain, but that was considered very unusual . I was there for almost two weeks and it rained maybe two of the days.

There were crowds everywhere . Rental cars, accommodation, tours, and tickets were nearly all booked out in advance . Tourist sites like Edinburgh Castle had very long lines to get in, even at 9 a.m.

It was possible to avoid crowds by waking up pretty early .

The midges in the Isle of Skye were prominent at this time, although not as bad as the photos and videos I’ve seen. That could be because it was unusually dry during my trip, though.

Overall, unless you have to, I would avoid July. Next time I plan a visit, I’ll likely shoot for spring or fall.

Scotland Geography Overview

Scotland makes up the upper third of the Isle of Great Britain, which lies off the Northwest coast of mainland Europe.

It’s a small country, but it’s geographically diverse, made up of glacier-carved valleys, fertile plains, lowland areas, historic cities, and nearly 800 islands (only 130 of which are inhabited).

Three main areas make up Scotland’s core geology: the Southern Uplands, Central Lowlands, and the Northern Highlands.

The most prominent of the three areas is the Northern Highlands, which make up a little over half of Scotland’s entire landmass, including the islands off the coast. It has some of the most famous natural landscapes made of mountainous topography, rolling hills, glittering lochs, and rugged terrain.

The Central Lowlands are mainly fertile farmland and most of Scotland’s larger cities like Glasgow, and the capital, Edinburgh. Over 90% of the Scottish population lives in this area.

Below that is the Southern Uplands, which forms the border with England. It’s mainly rural and agricultural, and dominated by rolling verdant hills.

Weather in Scotland

Scotland experiences four seasons, despite how far north the country is (as far north as Anchorage, Alaska, and St. Petersburg, Russia). Its climate is best described as oceanic, which means it is very cool, damp, rainy, and windy most of the year.

The weather here often gets a bad rep because you can experience all four seasons in a day, but as long as you pack proper layers, even a bit of rain can’t foil your plans.

Because of its latitude and location flanking two seas, the temperature only fluctuates about 20 degrees between the dead of winter (low 40 F (4 C)) and the peak of summer (mid 60 F (15 C)). An 80 F (27 C) day in Scotland is an anomaly, even in the middle of summer. Overall, the weather in Scotland is mild compared to the rest of Europe.

Scotland also experiences extreme variations in daylight hours, getting as little as seven hours in the winter and eighteen during the summer months. That’s something unique you should consider when you plan your trip.

Quick look at Scotland Weather + Seasons

Busiest months in Scotland : July and August

Least crowded months in Scotland : November and December

Hottest months in Scotland : July and August

Coldest months in Scotland : January and February

Warmest months in Scotland : Mid-June to mid-September

Driest months in Scotland : April, May

Summer in Scotland

June – August

Summer is one of the best times to visit Scotland for most travelers because the long daylight hours, warm weather, and outdoor activities are peak this time of year. The summer weather typically lands in Scotland by late May and starts to fade within the first few weeks of September.

While summer has some of the best weather, it can still be temperamental. The odds of clear and sunny skies are just as likely as ones that boast high wind and spontaneous downpours.

The extensive daylight hours make exploring the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides ideal during this time because you have 14+ hours to work with. While summer is dry in most places, it’s wet in Scotland.

Scotland in June

Average temp : 65 F / 18 C

Average rainfall : 2.6 inches

Daylight hours : 18 hours

Once June hits Scotland, it’s time to witness the bustling cities, wildlife, and true vibrancy of the country. Tourism begins to pick up this month, but it’s still quiet compared to the masses that arrive in Scotland come July and August.

The summer solstice falls in June, giving you up to 18 hours of daylight to play with. The weather is comfortable and mild. You may experience a bout of wind and rain, but it’s nothing a few clothing essentials can’t prepare you for.

June is the calm before the storm for the summer season, so it’s an ideal time to visit. Many attractions in the Highlands and islands are accessible, so you can grab a rental car or campervan and hit the road for some sightseeing, hiking, and camping.

Scotland in July

Average temp : 68 F / 20 C

Average rainfall : 2.9 inches

Daylight hours : 17 hours

July is the height of summer and peak season for tourism in Scotland.

Expect crowds and significantly higher prices for rental cars, tours, and accommodations this month. Tickets for events and attractions will be booked out far in advance so it’s not a good time for a last-minute trip.

Scotland’s weather is the warmest this month and offers some of the longest daylight hours of the year, so it’s ideal for exploring the Isle of Skye, Outer Hebrides, and Highlands. However, summers in Scotland can be temperamental with spontaneous downpours and high winds.

Outdoor lovers will rejoice this month because it’s prime for hiking, camping, and backpacking. You do need to be prepared to deal with midges, though, as they’re the worst this month.

Scotland in August

Average temp : 57 F / 19 C

Average rainfall : 3.6 inches

Daylight hours : 15 hours

Scotland experiences peak tourism in August, largely due to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest art festival in the world, that takes place the entire month of August.

The price of everything skyrockets this month and everything will be booked up very far in advance because of the festival. That said, this is a good time of year to plan a trip to the highlands or North Coast 500 road trip, to escape the insane crowds in the city.

August weather is still temperamental, but you can expect sun and mild cloud coverage. In the past few years, Scotland has experienced a heat wave so this month has been hotter than the average.

This is a good month to get outside into nature activities like hiking, backpacking, water sports, golfing, and swimming.

Things to do during summer in Scotland

Edinburgh Film Festival (June)

Edinburgh Fringe Festival (August)

Go hiking in the Scottish Highlands

Tee up on the golf courses in St. Andrews

Watch the Highland Games

Fall in Scotland

September and October

Autumn in Scotland offers cozy weather, beautiful fall foliage, and delicious food.

These two months are considered the shoulder season in Scotland, so you can expect the summer crowds to have thinned out and some pricing to be cheaper this time of year.

The beginning of the season will start with ample daylight hours, but begin to dwindle as the country moves into winter. If you want to plan your trip around fall foliage, shoot for October since that’s when Scotland finally begins to shed its vibrant green.

Scotland in September

Average temp : 62 F / 17 C

Average rainfall : 4.4 inches

Daylight hours : 13 hours

September is hands down one of the best times to visit Scotland.

This month brims with celebrations and a bunch of different activities as the season transitions into fall. At the beginning of the month, you can still expect the feeling of summer and the countryside to still be green. No matter where you go, the streets, cities, and countryside are all STUNNING this time of year.

The summer crowds do taper off this month, but that doesn’t mean you should expect crowd-free attractions and last-minute planning. September is still pretty popular for travelers, it’s just not as bad as the summer crowds.

The largest gathering for the Highland Games, the Braemar, takes place in September and features athletic events, piping, and dance competitions. It’s held in a different, stunning location each year near Pitlochry, and worth going to feel the spirit of Scotland come alive.

Scotland in October

Average rainfall : 5.6 inches

Daylight hours : 1o hours

October in Scotland is finally the middle of autumn and all around the country, all the green begins to fade into golden foliage. The whole country will be drenched in gold, orange, and red hues by the beginning of November.

Despite the weather cooling slightly and summer finally fading, October is cozy and ideal for exploring cities or squeezing in trips to the Highlands. Crowds this month will have thinned even further and prices will go down as winter approaches.

While rain is still possible, autumn in Scotland is surprisingly dry.

There’s something about the fog and chilly vibe of autumn that fits perfectly into the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. This is the perfect time to take full advantage of ghost tours, cemetery wanderings for Tom Riddle, and joining the locals at the Edinburgh Coffee Festival to warm up. Many people also enjoy celebrating Halloween in Scotland .

Things to do during fall in Scotland

Explore Harry Potter filming locations around Edinburgh

Join a Scottish whisky tasting

Grub on traditional Scottish comfort food in Glasgow

Visit the Isle of Skye

Go to the Outer Hebrides during oyster season

Kayak on Loch Lomond

Winter in Scotland

November – February

Compared to the rest of the year in Scotland, winter is quite cold. Warm clothes, extra layers, and thick boots will be essential during this season to keep warm. This season receives the most amount of rainfall in Scotland.

The peak time to visit in the winter is typically early December and late February, which are ideal for minimal snowfall and more pleasant weather conditions. Over the season, expect a mixture of clear, blue-skied days and others that bring wind, rain, and snow.

Scotland in November

Average temp : 49 F / 9 C

Average rainfall : 5.0 inches

Daylight hours : 8 hours

After Halloween, it’s officially winter and the start of the holiday season in Scotland.

November is one of the cheapest times of year to visit Scotland. Halfway through the month, the Christmas decorations go up around Edinburgh and Glasgow, so if you’re looking for an early holiday getaway, plan your visit around that time.

November is part of the shoulder season, so rainfall increases this month, and the late fall crowds have thinned out a bit more since it’s before the Christmas travelers arrive in December. Daylight hours are reduced this time of year, so you may need to plan around that.

The first half of the month tends to run a bit warmer, so you could potentially catch some late autumn leaves at the beginning of November. The latter half of the month brings the cold front and snow is likely, especially in the north and east. Regardless, be prepared and packed to tackle some wind and rain if you’re visiting Scotland in November.

Scotland in December

Average temp : 44 F / 7 C

Average rainfall : 5.3 inches

Daylight hours : 7 hours

December is one of the wettest and coldest months of the year in Scotland, but this month has many reasons to beckon a visit.

Holiday decorations are in full swing this month, Christmas markets are brimming, and the anticipation of the New Year is around the corner. Edinburgh is a fantastic city to be in for Christmas or New Year’s despite it being so cold. As long as you pack plenty of layers and a good rain jacket, you’ll have an enjoyable trip.

The Scottish know two things very well: how to throw a party and how to welcome you to that party. Hospitable locals and a celebratory time of year are a match made in heaven. One thing is for sure, you won’t be bored.

The highlands and islands are typically inaccessible this time of year, so this month is not recommended if you want to explore the outdoors (unless you have proper experience and gear). December is for gluttony and shopping, the two great things about the holiday season.

Scotland in January

Average rainfall : 5.8 inches

January is the coldest month of the year in Scotland, but because winters are mild, you won’t need to worry about below-freezing temperatures. Snow is possible, but that will only add to the city’s beauty.

Most travelers visit Scotland in January to celebrate the New Year, known here as Hogmanay. It’s a good month to celebrate with locals, snuggle up in cozy coffee shops , and explore cities like Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Glasgow.

As for outdoor activities, it’s ideal if you want to hit the slopes in the Cairngorms. Otherwise, it’s best to plan your trip for the spring if you want to go hiking or camping in the Scottish Highlands or Western Isles. January can be very wet and cold and without the right gear, getting outdoors will be miserable.

January is in the low season, so expect fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and a lot of flexibility with planning.

Scotland in February

Average temp : 45 F / 7 C

Average rainfall : 4.1 inches

Daylight hours : 10 hours

When February hits Scotland, the weather begins warming up, but not by much compared to January.

Because this month is cold and wet, there are no large celebrations, and limited daylight hours, this month isn’t a popular time to go to Scotland. It can be good if you’re on a budget or exclusively exploring cities. The streets will be much quieter and crowds will be thin.

If you can push your trip to March, that’s what I would recommend since the weather begins to dry out and outdoor experiences are more accessible.

Things to do during winter in Scotland

Up Helly Aa (last Tuesday in January)

Hogmanay (December)

Explore Christmas Markets in Edinburgh and Glasgow

Go skiing at Cairngorms National Park

Celebrate St. Andrews Day (Nov. 30th)

Stay up to try and spot the Northern Lights

Spring in Scotland

March – May

Spring officially begins in Scotland on March 1st and wraps up at the end of May.

These three months offer sunshine, blooming flowers, wildlife spotting, and a lack of crowds. The feeling of spring normally arrives around the second week of March and by the second week of May, the temperatures nearly feel like summer. While spring is famous for being wet in other countries, it’s one of Scotland’s driest seasons.

While typically warm and drier, the weather can still be interchangeable throughout the day, so you still want to prepare for rain. Although rare, Scotland has seen snow storms sneak in so that may be worth preparing for as well.

Favorable weather. Fewer crowds. Cheaper accommodation. All the ingredients that make spring one of the best times to visit Scotland.

During April and May, many whisky festivals celebrate the national drink of Scotland. It’s huge here. So much so that they dedicate the entire month of May to it for National Whisky Month.

Scotland in March

Daylight hours : 12 hours

During March, Scotland transitions out of the cold winter into the warmth of spring. The frost slowly melts and small signs of spring arrive by the end of the month.

This month is pretty quiet for travelers, so as long as you come prepared for the weather, you can enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty at cheaper rates, and without the crowds and midges.

Everywhere, the early mornings and evenings will be much colder than the daytime temperature so bring layers. The Scottish Highlands typically stay cold until April or May, with many mountain peaks still blanketed in snow. So if you’re looking to hike, consider pushing your trip back to those two months.

Scotland in April

Average temp : 55 F / 13 C

Average rainfall : 3.5 inches

Daylight hours : 14 hours

April brings the rich green tones that Scotland is so famous for and some of the driest weather of the whole year.

The highlands and lowlands have fully emerged from winter hibernation this month and come alive with new life. If you want to avoid crowds and rainy weather, this is the best month to visit Scotland.

Daylight hours this month are surprisingly long for spring, which makes getting out for a walk or hike in nature seamless without the worry of night. Sunny days and balmy days stretch out over the entire month, so as you can likely guess by now, pack layers.

This month is the perfect time to visit Trossachs National Park, Cairngorm National Park, Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and virtually any natural area. Newborn birds and hatchlings are popular on the east and west coasts so keep an eye out for those if you’re wandering those areas.

Scotland in May

Average temp : 61 F / 16 C

Average rainfall : 2.7 inches

Daylight hours : 16 hours

After April, May is considered the next driest month in Scotland. By the end of the month, it feels like summer with the increase in crowds, daytime temperatures, and number of daylight hours.

If you plan your trip at the beginning of the month, you’ll still be able to catch some deals if you’re looking to travel on a budget.

May boasts up to 17 hours of daylight by the end of the month, so use those extra golden rays to explore the Isle of Skye, Isle of Arran, Outer Hebrides, North Coast 500, Shetland, the Highlands, and other rugged spots in Scotland before the crowds, and midges, arrive in June.

Things to do during spring in Scotland

Venture to any of Scotland’s historic castles and ruins

Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Roadtrip the countryside for spring blooms

Explore the north coast Scottish Isles

Go island hopping

Take a hike in Cairngorms National Park

Drive the North Coast 500

Best Time To Visit Scotland (in my opinion)

To me, the best time to visit Scotland is spring and fall , but there are a handful of exceptions to this.

The benefit of going in spring or fall is the mild weather, moderate temperatures, cheaper prices, and fewer crowds. Scotland doesn’t experience extremely hot or cold weather, so the majority of the things to see and do are accessible year-round and not exclusive to these two seasons. However, planning your trip within those seasons will offer a much more enjoyable experience.

Summer, as expected, is the most popular time to go to Scotland. It boasts the warmest months of the year and everything is accessible. However, prices often skyrocket because of the season’s popularity and the many festivals going on, like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August. Midges in the highlands can make hiking this season particularly miserable.

If you’re not planning on attending the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, I would avoid going to Scotland in August at all costs . Nearly everything is booked out far in advance, prices are inflated, and the crowds are at an all-time high.

Although a lot of people write off winter, the famous European Christmas markets, powdery slopes, and the chances of spotting the northern lights compel many to visit Scotland during this season. Plus, Edinburgh comes to life in the winter for Christmas and New Year’s (it’s one of the best cities to celebrate winter holidays!).

What To Pack For Visiting Scotland

Any new destination can be stressful when thinking about what you need to pack. This is why I wrote a full and detailed Scotland packing list you can refer to for your trip.

It covers all the seasons, as well as everything from clothing essentials to small niche items so you’ll arrive in Scotland with everything you’ll need to beat the bouts of weather.

If you have any other questions about visiting Scotland, please reach out! Otherwise, browse my other Scotland guides to help you plan your trip:

Best Things To Do in Edinburgh (coming soon)

Edinburgh Itinerary

Best Coffee Shops in Edinburgh

Best Hostels in Edinburgh

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Scotland Packing List

Essential Scotland Travel Tips

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2 comments on “ Best Time To Visit Scotland: When To Go + When To Avoid ”

I’m a teacher so I have specific breaks that I have to travel during. If choosing between April and summer (only a week in April, late June-end of August), when would be the best time to visit the islands (Isle of Skye, Hebrides, etc.)?

Hi! Is good weather important in your decision?

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Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit?

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit?

If you’re debating whether you should visit Scotland vs. Ireland, this guide can help you decide which is the best choice for your travel style and preferences.

We’ve taken road trips in both Scotland and Ireland , and I can tell you (from personal experience!) that both countries are absolutely worth exploring .

In fact, I’d say they both are on our list of best road trips in the world. 

How do they compare, you ask?

If I’m totally honest, I feel like Scotland and Ireland are very similar.

During our recent Ireland road trip , we couldn’t stop comparing it to our road trip through Scotland . Around every turn, we’d say, “That view reminds me of Scotland,” or “This pub brings me back to Scotland!”

There are definitely differences between Scotland and Ireland too, but the good news is that if you like one, you’re nearly guaranteed to like the other!

Wondering where to travel: Scotland or Ireland?

If you’re looking for a short and direct answer, here it is: No matter which you choose, you will have an incredible time.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth comparison between Ireland and Scotland , we can do that, too… 

In this article, we’ll discuss the similarities Scotland and Ireland have, as well as what makes them different. 

We’re going over everything from the food to the weather to the landscapes (as well as which country we’d name the winner for each category) so that you can determine where you’d prefer to travel.

Spoiler Alert: If you want to just jump straight to the point and see our personal pick between Ireland vs. Scotland , click here !

Scotland or Ireland: Where should you travel?

• Similarities & Differences
• Hiking  
• Things to Do
• Small Towns
• History & Culture
• Accommodations
• Which is more family-friendly?
• How much time do you need in each?
• Our opinion: Ireland or Scotland

Similarities & differences between Scotland and Ireland

Before we dive into personal opinions, let’s go over the facts and compare the similarities and differences between Ireland and Scotland.

• Scotland: pound sterling (£)
• Ireland: euro (€)

Fun fact: If you travel to the north of Ireland, you will be using pounds instead of euros.

Scotland and Ireland are relatively similar in size.

Scotland is slightly bigger than the Republic of Ireland. However, if you compare the island of Ireland (including Northern Ireland), it is roughly 2,500 square miles larger than Scotland.

• Scotland is 30,090 square miles (77,933 km 2 ) 
• Republic of Ireland is 27,133 square miles (70,273 km 2 ) 

Even the two countries’ populations are similar. The Republic of Ireland and Scotland have roughly the same population. 

• Scotland: 5.5 million people
• Ireland: 5.1 million people (7 million on the entire island, including Northern Ireland)

When you factor in the size of each country, you’ll find that Ireland is more densely populated .

Also, the major cities in Ireland are bigger.

Ireland’s largest city (Dublin) has twice the population of Scotland’s largest city (Glasgow).

• Glasgow: 600,000 people
• Dublin: 1.2 million people

English is the most widely-spoken language in both Ireland and Scotland. However, each country also has pride for their native language.

The native language of both Scotland and Ireland is a form of Gaelic. While they have similar origins, each language is distinctly different. 

• Scotland: Scottish Gaelic
• Ireland: Irish Gaelic

In our experience, we found that Ireland has much more Gaelic across the country (on signs and menus) than we saw in Scotland.

• Scotland: majority Church of Scotland
• mix of Protestant and Catholic in the north of Ireland

Weather in Scotland vs. Ireland

Both Ireland and Scotland are known for drizzly weather and gray, gloomy skies. 

It’s a vibe – lean into it , pack correctly, and you’ll be fine!

This is anecdotal, but we had great weather in both Scotland and Ireland. In fact, when we traveled to Ireland for 2 weeks in early June, we only had (slight) rain one day. ONE DAY. We even had to buy new clothes while we were there because what we had packed was too warm.

The weather between the two countries is relatively similar, and you could get really lucky or really unlucky with either choice. 

If you’re comparing the countries as a whole, Ireland tends to have milder weather and slightly less rainfall than Scotland. 

Scotland weather stats

• Average annual rainfall: 59 inches (1,500 mm)
• Summer temperatures: 52º-66º F (11°-19°C)
• Winter temperatures: 34º-45º F (1°-7°C)

Learn more: Best time to visit Scotland

Ireland weather stats

• Average annual rainfall: 48 inches (1,230 mm)
• Summer temperatures: 60°-70°F (15°-20°C)
• Winter temperatures: 40°-46°F (5°-8°C)

Learn more: Best time to visit Ireland

Compare those rainfall amounts to our hometown of Bend, Oregon , which averages just 12 inches annually, and it is easy to see why both countries are known for being so rainy!

Our winner: Ireland

We wouldn’t recommend choosing Ireland over Scotland based just on weather because you can get lucky or unlucky anywhere. However, if you’re purely looking at the stats, Ireland is slightly more mild and has a bit less annual rainfall.

Food in Scotland vs. Ireland 

This is a toughie… both Scotland and Ireland are known for cuisines that are, well, heavy on the meat and potatoes.

While I love a good comfort food meal every now and again, it’s certainly not on the list of my favorite cuisines (like Thai food or Mexican food ) .

Scottish foods to try

• Haggis (there are also vegan options)
• Cullen skink (fish chowder)
• Fun fact: Chicken tikka masala is said to have originated in Glasgow, and this dish can be found on pub menus even in the countryside

Irish foods to try

• Botxty (like a potato pancake meets a savory crepe)
• Irish whiskey

In recent years, the foodie worlds of both Scotland and Ireland have been growing and elevating. And what were once thought of as – dare I say – bland cuisines have gotten facelifts in pretty major ways.

In the larger cities, you’ll find world-class dining where chefs are taking traditional foods to the next level while still honoring their roots. And in seaside towns of both Scotland and Ireland, don’t miss the seafood, it is incredible.

We had fantastic food experiences in both Ireland and Scotland and we think you will, too.

Good to know: We found vegetarian and vegan options readily available in both countries.

Our favorite food experiences in Scotland

• Taking a food tour in Glasgow
• Fresh langoustines at The Seafood Shack in Ullapool
• Going on a boutique distillery tour
• Afternoon tea in Edinburgh

Love food? Check out our guide to Scottish cuisine , which is packed with tons of tips!

Our favorite food experiences in Ireland 

• Fresh seafood with a lake view at The Misunderstood Heron food truck
• Fresh oysters at Morans Oyster Shack
• Lunch at The Bulman Bar & Restaurant (just outside of Kinsale) was one of our most memorable meals in Ireland
• We splurged on a nice dinner at the super cozy Ard Bia in Galway and loved every bite!

While I think it partially comes down to the restaurants we chose, we personally would pick Ireland as the winner. Almost every one of our meals in Ireland was excellent. ( Psst! I did TONS of research to choose the best restaurants, which I share in our perfect Ireland itinerary !)

Budget for Scotland vs. Ireland 

Overall, we didn’t find the prices to be too drastically different in Ireland vs. Scotland.

If I had to say which is more budget-friendly, I’d probably choose Scotland, but not by much . I think you could travel to either country with the exact same amount of money and be just fine. 

If you’re on a tight budget, then we’d recommend you limit your time in the big cities, as Dublin and Edinburgh are by far the most expensive places in each respective country.

Good to know: The Republic of Ireland uses the euro while Scotland uses the pound. If you’re traveling from the USA, the euro has a slightly better exchange rate.

Our winner: Scotland

While we found Scotland to be a tad more affordable, I wouldn’t solely make your decision based on budget, because like I said, the costs aren’t all that different.

Landscapes in Scotland vs. Ireland

Rushing waterfalls, rugged cliffs that drop into the sea, white sand beaches with turquoise waters, deep blue lakes flanked by towering mountains, thick forests where the fog clings to the treetops…

Do you think I’m describing Ireland or Scotland?

Whichever one you answered with is correct because you can truly find all these landscapes in both places.

Overall, the types of landscapes are somewhat similar. 

But if you pushed me to further contrast the two, I’d tell you that Scotland is more rugged . More remote. The mountains are higher, the coastlines more removed.

On the other hand, Ireland is greener and has some of the most spectacular seaside cliffs we’ve ever seen. So it depends on your preferences, really.

Our winner: Scotland 

Scotland has more varied and dramatic landscapes. Think higher mountains and more remote coastlines.

Hiking in Scotland vs. Ireland

If you love hiking as much as we do, you’ll want to be sure to pack your boots for your trip regardless of whether you choose Ireland or Scotland. 

While Scotland has higher peaks, both countries have a slew of incredible adventures to be had. From coastal trails to long-distance routes to steep-but-rewarding climbs, you’ll find your hiking bliss in both Ireland and Scotland.

Our favorite hikes in Ireland:

• Diamond Hill
• Keash Caves
• Slieve League
• Secret Waterfall
• Giant’s Causeway
• Benwee Head (on our bucket list!)
• Slieve Doan (on our bucket list!)

Our favorite hikes in Scotland:

• Finnich Glenn
• Old Man of Storr
• Happy Valley
• Fairy Glenn
• Steall Waterfall

Our winner: Tie!

We think both countries have amazing hiking opportunities. Personally, the hikes we did in Scotland were a bit more epic, but that was based mostly on our route and the amount of time we had. We think Ireland has just as many great hiking trails.

Castles in Scotland vs. Ireland

If you love castles, then you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll find plenty in both countries. Truly, you might even get a little sick of them because there are so many.

After some digging, I found that there is no exact count of the number of castles in each country. However, it is estimated that Ireland is home to more than 30,000 castles (and ruins), while Scotland has more than 3,000. 

Psst! Check out our list of the best castles in Scotland !

That means there are quite a lot more castles in Ireland than Scotland . That actually surprised me because I personally felt like I saw more in Scotland, but the numbers don’t lie!

Our winner: Ireland 

There are more castles in Ireland; but if I’m honest, you’ll see more than enough in either country.

Fun things to do in Scotland vs. Ireland

Which has more to do: Ireland or Scotland?

Oh, gosh, I don’t think I can answer that question fully. I think both have endless adventures to be had and many ways to get off the beaten track.

We had truly incredible and action-packed trips to both Ireland and Scotland. And we still have huge bucket lists for each country because we didn’t get to it all. (You never can!)

Instead of choosing a winner for this category, I’ll leave you with some of our favorite activities in both Ireland and Scotland:

Best things to do in Scotland

• Trek into Cairngorms National Park to see reindeer.
• Road trip around the Isle of Skye.
• Have afternoon tea in Edinburgh.
• Watch the sunset from the beach on the northeast shore of Loch Ness.
• Go hiking in Glencoe.
• Keep reading our whole list of amazing things to do in Scotland!

Best things to do in Ireland

• Road trip around the Dingle Peninsula on Slea Head Drive.
• Marvel at the cliffs around Ireland (Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League, Kerry Cliffs, and more!)
• Enjoy live music in an Irish pub.
• Take a black taxi tour in Belfast.
• Watch a sheepdog demonstration.
• Keep reading our entire list of fun things to do in Ireland!

Like I said, both countries will keep you plenty busy with all sorts of fun things to do!

Cities in Scotland vs. Ireland

I’ll get straight to the point: We’re not big city people.

When we travel, cities aren’t our main focus. We almost always love the smaller towns and countryside much more than the big cities.

However, we couldn’t very well go to Scotland without seeing Edinburgh, now could we? And same with Dublin in Ireland.

In both Scotland and Ireland, our favorite places were in nature. That said, we really were blown away by the big cities in Scotland. I could live in Edinburgh!

While we didn’t dislike the cities in Ireland per se, we liked the cities in Scotland more. 

Our favorite cities in Scotland:

Read more: We have a whole list of the best places to visit in Scotland .

Our favorite cities in Ireland:

• Dublin 

Read more: We have a whole list of the best places to visit in Ireland .

We liked the cities in Scotland more than those in Ireland. While we didn’t dislike Dublin or Belfast, we really loved Edinburgh and Glasgow (each for different reasons).

Smaller towns in Scotland vs. Ireland

Not to confuse you, but if we change the parameters to small towns, our winner is now Ireland. Again, not by much, but we found so many charming small towns in Ireland that we adored.

Our favorite small towns in Scotland:

Our favorite small towns in Ireland:

There’s just something about the villages in Ireland that beg you to stay!

Culture & History in Ireland vs. Scotland

Both Ireland and Scotland have a shared Gaelic culture, and you can find oodles of historic places and cultural attractions in each.

It’s hard to compare because each country has a vivid and complex history which you can learn about on your trip. 

We personally felt like the pub culture is stronger in Ireland than in Scotland. It’s not by a ton, but noticeably more, which we expected. Irish pub culture and folk music is legendary, after all.

Additionally, in Ireland we felt like there was more Gaelic pride visible to outsiders, as it is on all signs along with English in the Republic of Ireland (we didn’t notice it as much on signs in Northern Ireland).

With more visible Gaelic pride and a stronger pub culture (as well as nightlife, if that’s what you’re into), you can just feel the culture in Ireland.

Driving in Ireland vs. Scotland

We rented motorhomes in both Ireland and Scotland , so we have quite a bit of personal driving experience to speak from. 

Left-hand side of the road 

In both countries, you drive on the left side of the road , so if you’re used to driving on the right (like we are), it can be a bit different at the start.

In both countries, the roads are quite well-marked in towns and cities. Ireland, especially, had a lot of “stay left” indicators.

After a little practice and some chanting (“left side, left side!”), you shouldn’t have too much of a problem remembering which side to stay on. 

Narrow roads

Both Ireland and Scotland have very narrow roads through the rural areas. You’ll quickly get used to single lane roads where you will pull out to let oncoming traffic pass.  

When passing small villages, your vehicle may brush the hedges. For this reason, we’d recommend choosing the smallest vehicle that will work for you in both Ireland and Scotland. 

Between the two, Ireland’s roads seemed narrower.

Driving in cities

Our least favorite part of driving in both Ireland and Scotland was in the major cities. 

Part of this is due to the fact that we were driving large vehicles in each, so maneuvering them on busy city streets in traffic wasn’t fun. 

Plus, parking in big cities can be difficult with a motorhome or campervan, as you can’t enter parking garages due to height restrictions.

With more stretches of open road, Scotland felt slightly easier for driving (especially in a big vehicle).

Accommodations in Scotland vs. Ireland

Both Ireland and Scotland have plenty of accommodation options, from traditional hotels and inns to unique Airbnbs and cozy glamping stays (we have glamping guides for both Scotland and Ireland !). We had memorable stays in both countries.

Where you stay is going to depend a lot on whether you’ve chosen to rent a car or a campervan (more on that in a sec!). 

With the exception of Edinburgh, Scotland’s cities tend to have slightly cheaper accommodations than Ireland’s cities. Both countries have budget, mid-range, and luxury options.

Psst! Make sure you read the secrets to how we never book a bad Airbnb – we’ve basically got it down to a science!

We’ll give this one to Scotland for having slightly better prices, but in terms of quality, uniqueness, and variety, it would be a tie.

Camping in Scotland vs. Ireland

As we mentioned above, we did campervan trips in both Ireland and Scotland, and had incredible experiences in both countries.

We’d highly recommend this as a way to experience both Ireland and Scotland, and we’ve got lots of tips for you if this is how you choose to travel:

• Renting a campervan in Scotland
• Renting a campervan in Ireland

Overall, the campgrounds are very similar in Ireland and Scotland. Sites are not exactly private or wooded like you’d find in much of North America. Instead, you’ll find parking spots and hookups with a range of facilities.

We found the quality of campgrounds was pretty similar in both Ireland and Scotland. We had a couple of really nice campgrounds as well as a few, let’s just say, rustic campgrounds. Prices were also pretty much the same.

Psst! We have detailed camping guides for both Scotland and Ireland !

On a similar note, it is legal to wild camp in both Ireland and Scotland (aka camp in a non-designated campground). If you’re in a self-contained vehicle and looking for a little adventure, then this can be a great option. We did a bit of wild camping in both places and had great experiences. 

Insider Tip: Park4Night is the best app for finding legal places to wild camp in both countries.

Again, this one is too close to call. Both Scotland and Ireland offer great opportunities for camping, as well as for getting a taste of #vanlife .

Psst! If you’re thinking of adding England and/or Wales to your itinerary, check out our list of the best campervan rentals in the UK .

Crowds in Scotland vs. Ireland

Which is more popular with international tourists: Scotland or Ireland?

The data is understandably a little hard to read over the last few years, but in the last full year of truly “normal” travel (2019), Ireland saw more than three times as many tourists as Scotland .

• Ireland: 11.3 million international tourists (2019)
• Scotland: 3.5 million international tourists (2019)

While there are certainly crowded areas in both Ireland and Scotland, we definitely felt it more in Ireland . Well, except for the Queen’s funeral procession, which we just happened to be in Edinburgh for. But that was obviously a one-off thing.

We visited Ireland at the beginning of peak tourist season, but even still, it didn’t feel nearly as crowded as some European countries we’ve traveled to in the summer (I’m talking about you, Croatia !). 

The Cliffs of Moher were definitely the most crowded place we visited in Ireland. Most other places didn’t feel too terribly crowded, even on the weekends.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, there are definitely places you can do that in both countries, but Scotland is less touristy overall.

Which is more family-friendly: Scotland vs. Ireland?

We found both Ireland and Scotland to be family-friendly. 

We traveled with our daughter to both places and found we didn’t have to sacrifice much.

Tips for traveling with a baby in Scotland or Ireland

We have tons of tips for traveling with a baby to make your family trips feel more doable! But here are a couple of tips specific to Scotland and Ireland:

• In both Ireland and Scotland, we found that some distilleries allow minors and some don’t, so this is an activity that you’d want to research in advance.
• We found many cocktail bars allow minors until a certain time (usually 6 or 7 p.m.). Pubs that serve food tend to allow children later, but it can be a good idea to reach out and ask if it’s a place you really want to go to.

Round-up of the winners: Scotland vs. Ireland

Are you keeping score? 

If you want to see how Ireland and Scotland compare on all categories in one place, here ya go:

• Weather: Ireland
• Food: Ireland
• Budget: Scotland
• Landscapes: Scotland
• Hiking: Tie
• Castles: Ireland
• Things to do: Tie
• Cities: Scotland
• Towns: Ireland
• History & Culture: Ireland
• Driving: Scotland 
• Accommodations: Scotland
• Camping: Tie
• Crowds: Scotland
• Family-friendly: Tie

Note: I hope you read the descriptions of each category so you can see why we chose the winner and what the differences are. In most categories, they are very close , and choosing a winner was hard.

How much time do you need in Scotland vs. Ireland?

We think 2 weeks is a perfect amount of time in either Ireland or Scotland. Even 10 days can still give you enough time to see a lot in each place. 

Our Personal Opinion: Scotland vs. Ireland

I’ll be honest and tell you we are terrible at choosing favorites. Of anything. 

Ask me my favorite foods and you’ll be in for a 5-minute conversation that you weren’t prepared for. I’ll ramble on about all my favorites and how it changes day to day because, well, I can’t just choose one. That would be crazy talk. 

Okay, now that you know me a little better ( hey, let’s be friends! ), you can understand why I can’t just give you a straight answer to the question, “Which is better: Ireland or Scotland?”

First of all, I don’t think you can ever definitively say one country is better than another. 

But I also know you came here to get some sort of answer, so I won’t just leave you hanging. If you’re wondering which country to travel to – Ireland or Scotland – here’s what I’d tell you:

• Ireland wins just slightly when it comes to culture and history.
• Scotland wins for landscapes that are more varied, and as Ben says, just a little more epic.

They are tied in many other categories and are both excellent choices, so honestly, don’t overthink it. (Easier said than done, I know.)

At any rate, I’ll leave you with this little gem… I hope it helps you make a decision (or at least makes you laugh!).

• Katie: “Hey Ben, let’s play a game.”
• Ben: *looks up from his computer, a little weirded out* “Okay…?”
• Katie: “Summer or winter?”
• Ben: “Summer.”
• Katie: “Hot dog or hamburger?”
• Ben: “Hamburger.” *kind of catching onto the game*
• Katie: “Apple or orange?”
• Ben: “Orange.”
• Katie: “Ireland or Scotland?”
• Ben: *long pause* “Umm… Scotland? Well, wait now…”
• Katie: “Ha. Got it! Can’t change it now!”
• Ben: *stares at me* “Why?”
• Katie: “Because those are the rules. And I need you to pick one because I can’t!”

Ben went on to defend his decision, “In terms of overall epicness, I think Scotland wins by 1%. The mountains are bigger… the coastal drives are… well, actually they’re equal. That’s why it’s only one percent. It’s the mountains!”

So there ya have it. And I kind of agree with him . If I had to choose, Scotland wins by 1%.

Please, no hate mail from our Irish friends. We love you and your country, and can’t wait to return!

Remember, both Ireland and Scoland are truly incredible places to explore and they make amazing road trips. Whichever you choose will be a fantastic choice, I can guarantee it.

And the good news is that if you love your trip, you know you’ll love the other country, so why not plan that as a next vacation!? 

We have quite literally all the resources you need for both trips, after all!

More resources for planning your trip to Ireland

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

• Ultimate 2-week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
• Essential Ireland Packing List: FREE Download!
• Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!
• Unforgettable Things to do in Ireland: Ultimate Bucket List

More resources for planning your trip to Scotland

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

• Ultimate 2-week Scotland Road Trip Itinerary
• Complete Scotland Packing List: FREE Download!
• Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Unforgettable Things to do in Scotland

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We want to hear from you!

Okay, let’s hear it: what’s your opinion on this debate? Which would be your personal pick in Scotland vs. Ireland? Do you have any other questions for us? Leave your comments below and we’ll try our best to bet back to you!

Comments (3) on “ Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit? ”

Very helpful! Love the winner section of categories idea! And I still can’t decide. lol What small/rural town (in Ireland and Scotland) would you recommend visiting to ‘get to know’ some locals and ‘stay a while’ in one area to get a better experience of life/culture away from tourism? Of course, this area would have to have opportunities to be near locals. (sometimes difficult in rural areas where you didn’t actually grow up with everyone there)

As a native of Dublin who lives in Glasgow I can tell you Glasgow is bigger than Dublin in size, Maybe you should research better you only need to use Wikipedia to see Glasgow is bigger your blog is very misleading.

Your article is interesting.

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Best Time to Visit Scotland

Climate Overview

Beach Vacation in February

Best Time to Visit Scotland: Overview

Best time to visit the regions, climate charts scotland.

In the following, you will find climate charts for the regions.

Furthermore, there are some charts you can use for quick comparison of climate between the regions.

Day Temperatures

Night temperatures, average temperatures, water temperatures, precipitation.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Tables Scotland

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in aberdeen (scotland), temperatures, precipitation in edinburgh (scotland), popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

Important Regions and Cities

Great britain: regions.

Activities and Attractions

Distances to scotland, where’s scotland, continent: europe, scotland: experiences of our visitors.

The temperatures were pleasant. The weather is changing, but enough sunshine for hiking.

Weather Rating: 3 stars – Mixed

Just as it is when you drive through the Scottish Highlands in November – nevertheless fantastic!

changeable but fantastic weather there was rain and sun and it was not cold.

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

The Atlantic side was cooler approx. 16 – 20 degrees, in between rain showers also a whole day. The North Sea side brought it up to 24 degrees, but always a light, partly fresh wind. Rain, but only of short duration, so that one did not even come to stretch the umbrella. June is a good time to travel.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

April 2015: Edinburgh & Isle of Mull. Surprisingly most of the 14 days were very sunny and pleasant, even if naturally fresh. Only one day rained.

Not too hot and not too cold and for standing acceptable water temperatures 😉

The weather was such that we could do something every day without an umbrella. On many days the rain didn’t come until the evening. We as hikers found the day temperatures between 15 and 19 degrees as pleasant.

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The Best Things to do in Inverness Scotland

H eading to scotland and wondering what to do in inverness this city is full of ancient history and amazing sites. don’t miss these awesome things to do in inverness scotland..

When planning my trip to Ireland , I decided to take a quick flight to Scotland . My favorite thing about being in Europe is that it’s so inexpensive to fly around the continent . You can easily visit both countries with this Ireland and Scotland itinerary . I knew that I wanted to visit the Scottish highlands.

My ancestors are from the Isle of Skye , and I wanted to learn more about them and my ancestral home. I planned to visit Inverness as a half way point between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye , but I ended up falling in love with the city and surrounding area!

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’ve listed my favorite things to do in Inverness Scotland. I hope you take the time to visit these as they are true national treasures!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews & blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Scotland:

Get an easy scotland itinerary, our favorite hotels in scotland.

• Castle Hotel : Crossbasket Castle
• Edinburgh Hotel : Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
• Inverness Hotel : Kingsmills Hotel
• Isle of Skye Hotel : Skeabost House

Our favorite tours in Scotland

• Isle of Skye Tour
• Highlands Tour
• Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Scotland use code WANDERLUST for $25 off

Renting a Car in Scotland

If you want to see authentic Scotland, I recommend you drive yourself. 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.

Get your free Scotland Travel Planner

Culloden battlefield.

Visit the windswept moor where the Jacobites made their final stand. This National Trust Site is beautifully done with a Inverness museum that walks you through the Jacobite uprising of 1745 and the events that lead up to the battle on Culloden Moor, a pivotal event in Scottish and British history.

Be sure to watch the 360 reenactment video of the Battle of Culloden and find the clan stones out on the moor. I recommend booking your ticket to Culloden in advance. 

Clava Cairns

Originally built to house the dead, the Clava Cairns are about 4,000 years old. The cemetery remained a sacred place for millennia. You can visit the stone circles and mounds for free. They are only about a 5 minute drive from Culloden Battlefield.

Just a few miles from Inverness, Loch Ness is the second largest loch in Scotland and famous for its supposed occupant, the Loch Ness Monster, or “Nessie.” Make sure you visit Loch Ness and see if you can catch a glimpse for yourself!

Be sure to take a cruise so that you can take in all the beautiful views and hopefully find Nessie! 

Urquhart Castle

For fantastic views of Loch Ness and an awesome history lesson, head to Urquhart Castle. Wander around the ancient ruins of this ancient castle that has been there since the 13th century.

Explore Inverness City

Many people will stay in Inverness and use it as a home base to see the highlands, Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye , but don’t skip exploring this beautiful city with it’s old stone buildings and a castle to boot! Be sure to see Inverness Castle, the Old High Church, Victorian Market, and St. Andrews Cathedral. 

I recommend taking a walking tour of the old city centre to help you learn the Scottish history of this incredible city. 

Have Dinner on a Family Farm

I highly recommend having dinner with my friends Kacey and James. Enjoy a lovely evening with this Scottish Crofting family where you an enjoy real homemade Scottish food and hospitality, see the animals on the Croft (small farm), and enjoy learning about Scottish folklore during a whiskey tasting.

This is a great family friendly option and feels like visiting old friends. Book ASAP as they fill up fast. It’s quite pricey, but for the great food and unforgettable experience, I think it’s a worthy splurge. Whatever you do in Inverness, it’s sure to have you leaving Scotland with a feeling of connection to its ancient past and unforgettable memories.

If you’re seeing more of Scotland, be sure to visit Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye . And while you’re there, take a cheap flight over to Ireland!

Best Tours in Inverness

Invergordon shore excursion – best of the highlands tour, highlander loch ness and culloden battlefield 8-seater tour from inverness.

If you want to immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, this tour is for you. You’ll visit Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Glen Ord Whisky Distillery in one day. On an 8-person tour, your guide will take you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery and tell you stories of the past.

Best of the Highlands

Invergordon Shore Excursions – Sights, Tastes, and Sounds of the Highlands

A traditional experience that takes you to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the incredible views of Highland cows, Inverness botanic gardens, charming villages, and a photo stop at the iconic Loch Ness.

This tour includes:

• Transport from Invergordon
• English Speaking Tour Guide
• 4-course tasting lunch
• Dram of Whisky
• Entertainment

Tastes and Sounds of the Highlands

Whisky galore! Tour

Go on a truly unique experience and visit Scotland’s distilleries, taste whisky, and learn about the making process. Expert guides will take you through some of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, revealing some of the best-kept secrets.

Whiskey Tour

Heroes & Villains (Private) Tour

Glenfinnan viaduct and the great glen 8 seater tour from inverness, inverness city daily walking tour.

If you want a short tour to discover the best of Inverness, this 2-hour walking tour is the perfect option. Your local guide will take you through the mighty Inverness Castle, the Inverness Cathedral, and Balnain House.

These are other things you can expect on this tour:

• Guided walking tour of Inverness: Discover the city’s heritage
• Small-group tour (maximum 14): A more personal experience
• Learn all about the city’s history and culture from your guide
• See Inverness’ main attractions, as well as some off-the-beaten-path spots that most visitors miss

Inverness Walking Tour

Loch Ness: Urquhart Castle Round-Trip Cruise

Loch ness, glencoe & the highlands, best hotels in inverness, loch ness lodge, the glenmoriston townhouse hotel, victorian stone villa in the riverside conservation area, things to do in inverness faq, is it worth it to go to inverness.

Absolutely, the place is rich in culture, history, and beauty that everyone should experience! To make your vacation worthwhile, try going on tours so you can spend most of your time in the city and visit the most iconic attractions.

What is Inverness best known for?

Inverness is best known for its natural landscapes, quaint towns, medieval ruins, and prehistoric sites. There are so much to explore in Inverness, from the Highlands to Loch Ness and its famous monster.

What is Inverness UK known for?

Aside from its iconic attractions, Inverness in the UK is known to be the capital of the Scottish Highlands. It is also known for its vibrant culture, whisky distilleries, and great food!

What is special in Inverness?

If you ask me, I can say that the people and culture of Inverness are truly special. Everyone I’ve met is friendly and helpful, making me feel welcome even though it was my first time visiting the city. Additionally, the vibrant culture and all the natural attractions make Inverness a truly unique and special destination!

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